Albert Samuel Olson

Albert Samuel Olson, 84, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully after a short illness on August 3, 2025. Born on December 21, 1940, in Benwood, West Virginia, he lived a life defined by service, passion, and friendship.

The oldest of four brothers, Albert embraced a role that was part big-brother, part father, and part friend. To his siblings, he was a mentor, confidant, and sounding board, someone they could

always turn to for wisdom, encouragement, or a steady hand in life’s challenges.

After his formative years in West Virginia, Albert joined the United States Air Force, where he discovered a lifelong love of aviation. What began as service to his country blossomed into a

passion that guided both his heart and his career.

Following his military service, Albert pursued that passion through a rewarding career with Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, NASA and America West Airlines. His work allowed him

to travel widely, embrace adventure, and forge enduring friendships across the country and around the world. Yet no matter how far he traveled, he always cherished returning home to the

mountains of West Virginia, especially during the holidays and in the brilliant colors of the fall season.

A lifelong aviator and friend at heart, Albert made his home in the American West, spending much of his life in Arizona. He was known for his steady presence, generous spirit, and the

countless stories he shared from his years in the skies and among the people he loved. Albert was also well-read and deeply curious about the world. His interests spanned history, culture, and current events, giving him a worldly perspective that enriched every conversation.

He was a lifelong enthusiast of film, especially old Westerns, and delighted in sharing classic movies, finding in them both entertainment and timeless lessons about honor, courage, and

friendship.

He was a dedicated Mason, a member of the worldwide fraternity whose principles of brotherhood, character, and service resonated deeply with him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Olson and Rosemary Olson née Kalcun; his first wife, Barbara Grendel; the love of his life, Joan Mary Olson née Boulanger; and his stepson,

John Hamelin.

Albert is survived by his daughter, Samantha Olson and her husband Michael of Austin, TX; his stepmother, Jacqueline Olson of Benwood, WV; and his three brothers: Lt. Col. Dale Olson,

USAF Ret., and wife Diana of Saint Clairsville, OH; Keith Olson and wife Darla of Bluefield, WV; and Kevin Olson and wife Caroline, of Wilson, NC. He is also survived by his lifelong friend, Raymond Kelly of Glen Dale, WV; a beloved circle of nieces and nephews who adored him; and his niece Caroline Kelly and husband Pike of Apache Junction, AZ, who lovingly comforted and cared for him in his final months.

Though Albert’s passing leaves an ache in the hearts of those who knew him, his life remains a testament to love, service, and friendship. The world is slightly less bright without his humor,

wisdom, and steady presence. He was a true raconteur, with a gift for spinning stories that entertained, enlightened, and often left friends laughing over a glass of good Scotch. His memory

continues to shine through the countless lives he touched, and in remembering him, we are reminded of the joy, adventure, and warmth he brought to every gathering, every conversation,

and every friendship.

Albert’s legacy of service, adventure, and love will live on, in the families and communities he enriched, in the skies he cherished, in the Grand Canyon State he loved and in the mountains of West Virginia that always called him home.

In keeping with his humble wishes, no service was held. He was laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Joan, at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary.