Crosby native on Jackson's memorial: 'It was sad, very sad'

Among the thousands attending Michael Jackson's memorial ceremony Tuesday at the Staples Center in Los Angeles was Crosby native Tyler Olson.

Olson, who was born in Crosby, grew up and graduated high school in Bemidji and has lived in Los Angeles for about four years, was one of about 8,700 people to be selected to attend the 2.5-hour ceremony.

"It was very well put together, it was very touching and it was actually very inspirational as well," Olson said in a telephone interview as he left the Staples Center. "It was sad, very sad."

Olson said he was nervous before attending the ceremony because of the large crowds expected but it was less chaotic than he thought. He said in addition to a throng of media on the ground and in helicopters there was a substantial police presence.

Olson wanted to attend because he has been a fan of Jackson's music for a long time.

"It's hard not to be," Olson said. "He had music for every generation."

He said the ceremony was subdued and the moment that stuck out was when Jackson's three children took the stage.

"His kids are what made me cry," Olson said. "That was probably the saddest part."

MATT ERICKSON may be reached at matt.erickson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5857.