Wilmar Lloyd Olson

Wil was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, whose kindness, humor and steadfast presence meant so much to his family. He is survived by his wife of more than 70 years, Darlene Olson; his son, Mark Olson (Lisa); his daughter, Nancy Walden (Blake); his nine grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, David Olson, his younger brother, Robert, and two younger sisters, Darlene and Patsy.

Wil was born on May 16, 1933 in Petersburg, North Dakota to Lewis and Mable Olson. After his father died when Wil was 5 years old, his mother sold the farm in North Dakota and moved to San Francisco.

Wil loved baseball. At just 13, he was kicked off the school team after being caught smoking on school grounds -- a story that was often retold in laughter at family gatherings. He later quit smoking at the age of 25.

At the age of 17, Wil joined the U.S. Navy, serving from June 28, 1950 to March 8, 1954. He served as an Aviation Boatswain's Mate in flight deck operations aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Monterey (CVL-26).

Wil valued education and continued learning throughout his life. He received his high school diploma in 1953 from the Florida State Department of Education and later attended Yakima Jr. College, now Yakima Valley College as well as Yakima Perry Trade School, now Perry Technical Institute.

From February 1956 to September 1957, Wil worked at the Puget Sound Energy Electric Building in Seattle, and later at the company's new building in Bellevue. He had various other jobs before returning to PSE, where he retired in 1994 after working as a power dispatcher for 29 years.

Wil loved the Lord, and his faith was an important part of his life. He and his wife, Darlene, attended Our Redeemer Lutheran Church since 1972, where he served in many roles, including as a deacon, adult Bible teacher, confirmation teacher and member of the choir. He also occasionally gave fill-in sermons when needed.

Wil had a deep appreciation for history, particularly the Civil War and World War II. He loved reading the Bible, studying and listening to classical music. He enjoyed golfing, especially in Hawaii, with his brother and with his good friend Joe. RV-ing was another favorite pastime of his, with trips throughout Washington, as well as North Dakota, California, Nevada, and Canada. He also had a particular fondness for oatmeal cookies.

There will be a memorial service held for Wil on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 2 P.M. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 11611 NE 140th St., Kirkland.