Olgert Kroders was born on August 9, 1921, in Riga, Latvia. His father, writer Robert Kroders, was a nobleman who belonged to Latvian gentry. His mother, Gerta Kroders, was a Latvian drama actress known under stage name Gerta Wulf. Olgert Kroders attended Riga State University, majoring in history. He was also active in student drama club.