Colby Elliott Olsen

The hardest goodbyes are the ones you didn’t see coming. Colby Elliott Olsen, age 43, passed away unexpectedly in Las Vegas, Nevada on Thursday, April 2, 2026. He was a wonderful and true man, and we will miss his joy, wit, and wisdom.

Colby was born in Logan, Utah, on January 9, 1983, to Kevin and Diana Olsen. Much of his childhood was spent on local farms where he learned the importance of hard work and follow through. He dedicated two years to missionary service for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, serving in Jacksonville, Mississippi. After returning home, he pursued and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science at Utah State University. During this time, he met Marilee Kay Peirce, and they wed on October 6, 2005, at the Logan, Utah Temple.

Known for his dedication to learning, Colby and Marilee relocated to Las Vegas to continue his education at UNLV, where he earned a doctorate in Physical Therapy. His career began as a student physical therapist at MountainView Medical Center, where he later joined the staff full-time, completing his wound care certification. He later became the Director of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Services, a role he held until his passing. He had recently completed his MBA and was excited about what the future held for him in his career.

Referred to as "adventure Dad," he loved so many things, including attending concerts and exploring state and national parks. He particularly enjoyed weekend mountain bike rides with his good friends, finding peace and joy in the outdoors. His greatest devotion, however, was to his wife and children. By coaching every team his children participated in, he maintained a strong connection and active involvement in their lives.

He followed the Broncos, Jazz, Padres, and the Utah State University Aggies and frequently attended ball games with his family. Colby's playlists were eclectic, bouncing from Metallica to the Tabernacle Choir. But if you truly knew Colby, you'd know of his devotion to the band 311—he embodied their upbeat vibe. His loyalty ran deep, amber was the color of his energy, and his love for them truly cannot be overstated.

He held a special place in his heart for buffalo, he admired their courage to face storms head-on, just as he did. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout through the Scouting program. He adored his mom’s cinnamon bundt cake and her cinnamon rolls. He requested both for his birthday every year. He was always up for trying new food and his Mountain Dew was always full of ice.

Colby was observant. He actively looked for ways he could help those around him. It was easy to recognize his compassion, consideration, and empathy. He approached situations with an open mind, refraining from assumptions or premature judgments. His presence was valued by all who knew him, and when he set his mind to doing something, he went all in. He devotedly served in various church roles within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, mainly working with youth and missionaries. He was a high priest and was serving as First Counselor in the bishopric of the Egan Crest Ward at the time of his passing. He was a faithful and devoted son of God and disciple of Jesus Christ. His close relationship with his Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ was clear. He tried to follow the Savior’s example in every choice he made.

As a family, our hearts are broken. His absence leaves us feeling incomplete; but we feel real comfort knowing we share Colby’s core belief that God has a purpose and plan for his children on earth, that we will meet Colby in Heaven, and we will be made whole as an eternal family once again.

He is survived by his wife, Marilee Peirce Olsen, son Clayton Colby, and three daughters Kaylee May, Mckenzie Rose, and Vanessa Aloha; his parents Kevin and Diana Olsen of Young Ward, Utah, brother Michael (Alexis) of Cokeville, Tennessee, sister Alaina Ferguson (Landen) of Kansas City, Missouri, and brother Jonathan (Brooke) of Hyrum, Utah, his grandmother Ines Olsen of Young Ward, Utah and grandparents Elliott and Zola Mickelson of West Valley, Utah.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Evan Leon Olsen.

Marilee and her children are deeply moved by the kindness and concern they have received from their church community, supportive neighbors, and friends. They feel immense gratitude for your support during this challenging time. The family also wishes to give special thanks to the staff at MountainView Medical Center, as well as Colby’s associates, colleagues, and friends, for their heartfelt expressions of love, respect, and remarkable generosity.

In lieu of flowers, a gofundme account has been set up and those who choose to do so may contribute: https://gofund.me/5f51dc31f. A viewing for will be held Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Northwest Palm Mortuary, 6701 North Jones, Las Vegas from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The brief family viewing will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, with the funeral to follow at 12:00 at the Skye Canyon Stake Center, 10070 West Azure Drive, Las Vegas. Services will be steamed at the following link: https://zoom.us/j/94540933328