Melvin Oliver Olsen

"Ole" "Mel" "Maul"

Sept. 11, 1922-Aug. 15, 2011

Born and raised in Everett, WA Mel resided there for 88 years. He attended Everett High School until WWII broke out and he left high school to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corp. He was very proud of his service years aboard the USS Indianapolis in the WWII Pacific Theatre. He returned to Everett to attend the Everett Junior College on the G.I. Bill. He was a part of the school's championship football team in 1947 and recently was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his participation on that amazing football team.

He met the love of his life Shirley "Sis" Covert and they were married in July of 1947. They remained married for 52 1/2 years until her passing in 2000. Mel worked for many years at Simpson Lee Paper Co. In 1959 he became the dedicated caretaker of Everett Memorial Stadium. He was "Mr Stadium" to many for 28 years until he retired in 1987. He and his wife, Shirley, raised three children, son, Scott Olsen (Joan); daughters, JoAnne Gallays and Judy Mirabella. He had three grandchildren, Monica Roberts (Steve), Merrilee Kimmons and Matt Kimmons; three great-grandchildren, Jordan Kimmons, Megan and Shane Roberts.

Mel had many good friends. He was known for his generosity and gentleness and most of all for his one of a kind, wonderful, room filling laugh. He will be greatly missed by many. Mel was a lifetime member of The Everett Elks Lodge #479 and an Elk of the Year.

He was chairperson for the Elks disabled Christmas Party for many years and loved being Santa for this event.

Mel was a member of the Everett V.F.W., The American Legion, The Redmen, The Fraternal Order of Eagles, The Sons of Norway, where he rarely missed a Swedish pancake breakfast. For many years Mel was an active member of the Everett Y.M.C.A. seniors exercise classes. At Mels request there will be no funeral service. A private military honors graveside service will be held for the family on August 25, 2011 at Cypress Lawn Cemetery in Everett. Flowers may be sent through Purdy and Walters with Cassidy Funeral home at 1702 Pacific Ave, Everett, WA 98201. For all who loved Mel, a joyous "potluck" celebration of his life will be held at The Everett Elks Club, Saturday October 8, 2011 between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.