Olga (Gallo) Golden

Born in Fossalto, Campobasso, Italy, in 1929, Olga immigrated to the United States at the age of 9, arriving at Ellis Island with her mother Concetta, sister Maria Nicolette, and brother Tony before reuniting with her father Simone Gallo in Cincinnati, Ohio. Though she didn’t speak a word of English when she arrived, Olga’s determination and brilliance led her to graduate as Valedictorian — a true reflection of her resilience, intelligence, and spirit.

On July 29, 1950, she married the love of her life, John “Joe” Golden, and together they raised seven children: Bob, Chuck, Connie, Mary, John, Anna, and Tony. Olga was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother — lovingly known by many as “the child whisperer.” Her home was always filled with the irresistible aroma of Italian cooking (her spaghetti sauce and meatballs were the stuff of legend), the comfort of unwavering love, and the joyful noise of generations who adored her.

Throughout her children’s early years, Olga was a constant presence not just at home, but in the school and community. She volunteered at Rinaldi Street School, supported extracurricular activities, and cheered from the sidelines at countless sporting events. Her pride in her family knew no bounds — she showed up, every time.

Olga truly lived the American dream. She had a magical green thumb and could coax life from any patch of soil — her garden, like her family, flourished under her tender care. She was an active member of the Chester Garden Club, where she shared her love for flowers, vegetables, and everything that grew under the sun.

A woman of quiet faith and tireless generosity, Olga led by example. She volunteered to serve meals at St. Euphrasia Catholic Church, helped wheelchair-bound veterans attend Mass at the Sepulveda VA Hospital, and later gave her time at Seneca Hospital in Chester, California. She was a devoted member of the Altar Society at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church. Her compassion and commitment to helping others were woven into the fabric of her life.

After her children had graduated from high school, Olga and Joe relocated to Lake Almanor, where they embarked on a new chapter and opened The Chester Saloon. She quickly became known in the community for her hospitality — and for her unforgettable calamari, minestrone, and meatballs. After the restaurant was sold, Olga continued to share her culinary gifts by baking at her daughter’s coffee house, where she lured customers in with the smell of her homemade biscotti and Italian cookies.

She loved music of all genres and never missed band shell nights at the Country Club — often dancing with joy, or swaying along with her favorite tunes. And always, always: Dean Martin was her #1.

Olga lived a long, storied, and deeply inspiring life — one marked by grit, grace, laughter, and love. She had a warmth and ease that drew people in, made strangers feel like friends, and turned any room she entered into home. Though our hearts are heavy, we are comforted knowing she is now pain-free and at peace. We are forever grateful for the time we had with her — especially those final days surrounded by family, when many of us had the blessing of being by her side as she peacefully transitioned into her next chapter.

Her strength, wisdom, and boundless love will live on in all of us.

Rest peacefully, our beautiful and amazing Mama.

Ti amiamo per sempre.

Ciao, Bella.

A visitation will be held Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Palm Mortuary - Eastern, 7600 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. She will be laid to rest in Chester, CA.