On November 16, 2024, at the age of 101, Olav Thon, one of Norway’s most prominent businessmen, developers, and philanthropists, passed away. The news of his death has deeply saddened society. For decades, Olav Thon inspired people worldwide with his achievements and perseverance.
“It is with great sorrow that we received the news of Olav Thon’s passing, who lived to be 101 years old. Our thoughts now go out to his dear wife, Sissel, and his closest family”, said Kjetil Nilsen, CEO of the Olav Thon Group, in an interview with NRK.
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Thon was known for his wide-ranging interests in business. Over the years, he became one of Norway’s wealthiest individuals, creating the Thon Hotels chain and making significant investments in real estate and tourism. His signature red knitted hat became a symbolic and distinctive part of his unique style.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre recalled that Thon always remained close to his roots despite his great success. “He was a man with a big heart who never forgot where he came from and always supported local communities”, said the Prime Minister.
Olav Thon will be remembered not only as an entrepreneur but also as a philanthropist who founded the Olav Thon Foundation. The organization, encompassing his wealth, annually donates funds for scientific research and social causes.
Thanks to his passion and dedication, Olav Thon has left behind an indelible legacy and made a tremendous contribution to the development of Norwegian business and society.
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Thon was born on June 29, 1923, in Ål, Hallingdal, on the family farm Søndre Thon. As a young man, he planned to study medicine, but the outbreak of World War II prevented him from pursuing those plans. Instead, he began raising fur animals and trading skins, and at the age of 18, he opened his first fur shop in Hallingdal, marking the start of his lifelong career in business.
Thon made his first real estate investment in Oslo in 1950, and from that point on, his empire expanded across Norway, Sweden, and beyond, encompassing a wide range of commercial properties and hotels. In 1974, he purchased the Hotel Bristol in Oslo, marking the beginning of his involvement in tourism. Fifteen years later, he founded the Rainbow Hotels chain (now Thon Hotels), which today includes over 70 hotels throughout Europe.
Olav Thon was also known for his signature red hand-knitted hat, which became his trademark. In 2003, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, he was awarded the Order of St. Olav for his contributions to Norwegian business.
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Beyond his professional achievements, Thon left a significant mark on charitable work. In 1990, he established a foundation to support the Norwegian Tourist Association - DNT, and in 2013, he donated much of his fortune to charitable and social causes through the Olav Thon Foundation. Each year, the foundation allocates millions of Norwegian kroner to research projects, education, and local community support.
In 2019, Olav Thon married Sissel Berdal Haga, his longtime partner. Thon passed away surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy.
Olav Thon was a symbol of Norwegian entrepreneurship, proving that hard work, innovation, and dedication can shape a country and the lives of its people. He was a great inspiration to everyone who dreams big.
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