By GEORGE KUNKE, geoakunke@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 11, 2021 3:12 pm
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Dr. Kenneth Olson DVM has decided to retire from his veterinary business after 35 years of local service. Olson was the owner/operator of Willapa Veterinary Service at 230 Ocean Avenue in Raymond. The new veterinarians and owners of the business are Dr. Eric and Dr. Kathleen Sutten.
After 37 years overall, Olson believes it is the right juncture in his life to leave what he's loved so much, and enjoy retirement.
"It's the right time, the right people and a fair price; with great confidence, I agreed to sell," Olson told the Herald. "I plan to fly my own plane as much as I can, raise sheep, vegetable garden, enjoy the grandkids, hike and camp. Dang, there's so much to do!"
Dr. Olson graduated from Oregon State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1984, which was the second class to graduate from the new veterinary school.
"After graduation I worked in the nearby Albany Oregon at Lynn Veterinary Hospital for Dr. Ben Braat," Olson said. "I worked for Dr. Ben for two years before coming to Raymond/South Bend. I've been happy here these 35 years raising a family and building a practice."
Dr. Olson could not say how many animals he's treated over the years. "I couldn't begin to estimate the number of patients I've seen over the years, although many have touched my heart and left lasting memories," He said. "I think we currently have a client base of 4,000, averaging 1.5 pets per client. Practice is challenging.
"What I'll miss most is the interaction with customers," Olson said. "Many have become dear friends. Our pets are close to our hearts. It's been a pleasure and an honor to be part of that.
"At 67, I'm finding it more difficult to keep up," Olson added. "It's time for young blood. Along comes Dr. Eric and Dr. Kathleen Sutton with a fair offer for the practice and buildings."
Meet the Suttons
Dr. Olson spoke highly of the Suttons. "Dr. Eric was raised in Elma and is friends with my office manager's husband. He comes with strong recommendations and background. I'm very impressed with Dr. Kathleen, too, outgoing, competent, and intelligent. They are a perfect fit for our community. They have two young boys and are excited about coming here."
Dr. Eric Sutton DVM obtained his bachelor's degree from Central Washington University and his master's degree in veterinary immunology from Washington State University. He obtained his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University in 2013. His professional interests include immunology, infectious disease, and soft tissue surgery.
Dr. Kathleen Sutton DVM grew up on Bainbridge Island and obtained her bachelor's degree from Occidental Collete and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University in 2013. Her medical interests include emergency medicine, ophthalmology, and soft tissue surgery.
The Suttens have two young children; Joni, 3, and Calum, 1. They have two dogs, Walker and Dixie.
The Suttens plan to operate the clinics as before with an eye towards continued improvements.