Charles "Rich" Ray Ollar

Charles Ray Ollar, "Rich," was born December 8, 1953, and passed away at home in Dallas, Texas, on October 4, 2025, at age 71. He faced illness with pride and determination and left this world too soon. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Howard Ollar and JoAnn Dubose.

Rich had a profound love for the ocean and his family. For over four decades, he explored tropical places as a scuba diver and teacher, sharing his passion with new enthusiasts. His devotion to the sea mirrored his care for his wife of 46 years, Joanie Marie Ollar, his daughters, Marissa and Alexis, his grandchildren, Kyan and Finley, and son-in-law, Topher Marlatt. He is remembered by his siblings-in-law, Janet Allen, Patty Zesch, and Billy Mitchell; his sister, Kimberly Riso; his nephew, Cliff Riso; his niece, Brooke Brockway; and his nephew, Parker Allen.

Rich worked for 50 years as an aerospace engineer with firms nationwide before founding CED and Associates. His international projects showcased his expertise and dedication, as well as his profound joy in developing solutions for aerospace technology.

Rich graduated from Garland High School in 1972 and from East Texas State University in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Technology. Creating and engineering were his favorite hobbies. Rich excelled in math, easily understanding numbers. Many people recalled how he helped them excel in math during school.

As a PADI Scuba Instructor for 35 years, Rich taught friends, family, colleagues, and students worldwide. He loved teaching and showing people the beauty of the ocean. He shared his knowledge of fish species, coral, underwater history, dive wrecks, and more.

Rich loved all sports and was a proud Garland High School Owllie. He played baseball, football, and track in high school, excelling in each. He looked forward to sports seasons and enjoyed watching games with friends and family. Action sports and fun were his motto.

Rich was larger than life, with a huge heart. He was outgoing and often the life of the party. Rich knew how to charm people with his kindness and stories. His strength could move mountains. He always supported his family in their dreams and journeys.

A Memorial Service for Rich will be held on Saturday, November 8th, 2025, at 1:00 pm, at Calvary Hill, 3235 Lombardy Drive, Dallas, TX. Instead of flowers, please donate to your charity of choice in Rich Ollar’s honor.

The Ollar family would like to express deep gratitude for all the support received to date in the wake of Rich's passing.