David John Olander, 75

Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Major David “Dave” John Olander, age 75, of Swainsboro, passed away Monday, July 27, 2026, at Emanuel Medical Center. A private family memorial will be held at a later date.

Dave was born June 6, 1951, in Rhinelander, WI, to the late David C. and Marjorie Olander. He was a Vietnam and Gulf War veteran. After retiring from the Army, Dave worked as a defense contractor in Saudi Arabia before becoming a professor at Southeastern Technical College in Swainsboro. An avid reader, and a lifelong learner, he was perhaps most at home instilling a love of learning in his students. Dave’s curiosity about the world never faded, and he inspired those around him to keep learning, exploring, and asking questions. He was a great adventurer who explored the world around him, no matter where life took him. Dave scuba dived in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, searched the Saudi desert for historic sites, and was equally at home exploring German castles as he was camping on uninhabited islands in Central America. An avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing, boating, and riding his motorcycle. Dave was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who will be greatly missed. He approached life with an adventurous spirit and an endless curiosity that carried him from classrooms to oceans, deserts, and historic sites throughout the world. Mr. Olander is preceded in death by his parents; and son, David S. Olander of Savannah.

Wilkes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.