James Earl Olsen

James was born on February 16, 1925 in Tyler, Minnesota and was the son of Christopher and Christine (Drake) Olsen. He was the youngest of 10 children and grew up on a Farm learning the value of hard work. James graduated from high school in Tyler and on September 19, 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He honorably served is country during WWII and received an honorable discharge on June 17, 1946 at the rank of RM3C.

Following his military discharge, James moved to Portland, Oregon where he attended Multnomah School of the Bible. It was there that he met Dondeline C. Soloman, “Donna”. They were married on December 20, 1951 in Portland and later moved to Gresham.

James worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail clerk for 30 years. He retired in 1979. He also drove school bus for David Douglas School District, Gresham-Barlow and Parkrose. He retired in 1993 after 40 years. He was a member of Good Shepherd Community Church and volunteered with Loaves and Fishes.

James was a devoted Christian and dedicated much of his time to church. He enjoyed puzzles, crosswords and baking. He was helpful, kind and generous and always found time to help someone in need. He also served a one month mission trip in England. He will be dearly missed by all who know and loved him.

James is survived by his sons; Charles “Randy” Olsen of Gresham and Mark Olsen of Welches and daughter; Karen Webb of West Linn along with 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. His wife Donna and his 9 brothers and sisters all preceded him in death.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 11:00 am at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home, 520 W. Powell Blvd. Gresham, OR 97030. Visitation will be on Tuesday, February 14, 2012 from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm also at Bateman Carroll. Interment with Military Honors will be at Willamette National Cemetery. Contributions may be made in memory of James to the Multnomah School of the Bible or Kaiser Hospice. Bateman Carroll Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.