Charles David Olsen

Charles was born and raised on Staten Island. He graduated from St. Peter’s high school and earned his Mechanical Engineering degree from CCNY. After college, he started working for American Electric Power (AEP) in NYC and when his company moved to Columbus, he transferred to Ohio and had a fulfilling career which spanned 50 years, ending on 7/1/2024.

Charlie thoroughly enjoyed the engineering work he did at AEP and during his career he earned his Masters of Engineering degree (ME) as well as his Professional Engineering (PE) license. He received numerous AEP awards with his engineering ideas for solving difficult problems and was known as a “go to” advisor and always keeping a constant focus on practical solutions whenever possible.

In addition to his professional work, Charlie had numerous hobbies and interests: his charitable work – his physical exercise & weightlifting focus – the lifelong interest in automobiles – his and Cindy’s beloved cats… and always his family and close friends!

Charlie was always known as the person to call when anyone had automotive questions or problems. This interest started in college days when he put together a car using a Volkswagen kit! His advice was also constantly sought on issues dealing with generators, A/C’s. home improvements and repairs, etc. and he never turned anyone away when they asked for help.

Another key focus for Charles was his charitable work which he continued throughout his life. He volunteered to tutor high school students in mathematics & calculus; he worked weekends over the many years volunteering for Habitat for Humanity building new homes; he supported the Boys Scouts of America remembering his experiences and an Eagle Scout, and he supported the Food Bank of Mid-Ohio.

Charlie always loved getting together with his family and friends.

He was a man who had a heart of gold.

Chales is survived by his wife, Cynthia Taylor: his siblings: George Olsen (Pamela) and Kathleen Hardy (Joseph). His sister, Patricia Whitehouse (Peter) died in 2018. Charles is also survived by his nephews and nieces: Peter Whitehouse (Kelly), Leif Whitehouse, David Whitehouse, Michael Olsen (Nikki) and Christine Brooks.

A service will be held September 11, 2024 in Staten Island, New York.

Donations in memory of Charles Olsen may be made to your favorite charity or to Boy Scouts of America (Licking County, Ohio) or The Food Bank of Mid-Ohio