Samuel "Jim" E.J. Olmstead

Samuel E.J. Olmstead, affectionately known as “Jim,” passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at his home in Westlake Village, California. He was 88 years old. Jim was a devoted husband, proud father, steadfast friend, and a pillar of his community, remembered for his patriotic spirit, religious faith, and generous heart.

Born on March 19, 1937, in Washington, DC, Jim was the beloved son of Edison and Ruth Olmstead. Upon graduating high school, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps Reserves for four years—a source of pride he carried throughout his life.

Jim’s commitment to public service continued in 1959 when he joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Over 33 years, he built a distinguished career dedicated to protecting and serving others. After his retirement, Jim’s spirit of inquiry and integrity led him to a second career as a Private Investigator, where he worked until his full retirement.

A talented craftsman, Jim had a gift for building exquisite wood furniture and could fix or create just about anything. His home was filled with lovingly crafted pieces, each bearing the mark of his skilled hands.

Above all, Jim valued family. He shared nearly sixty years of marriage with his beloved wife Alberta until her passing. Their life together was filled with love and devotion. In 2017, he found happiness again, marrying Rensche and sharing eight wonderful years by her side.

Jim leaves behind his loving wife, Rensche; his daughters, Cynthia Miller and Michele Yerby; and his sisters, Elizabeth Bowling and Annemarie Chait. He is also survived by a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and many friends. He is predeceased by his wife Alberta, his sister Judy Ame, sister Barbara O'Donnell, and his parents.

A devout Christian, Jim is a member of New Hope Lutheran Church. He was well-known for quietly helping his neighbors and faithfully supporting numerous charitable causes. He found joy in attending church, reading the Bible, and flying the alma mater flags of his grandchildren’s colleges with pride.

Jim’s unwavering faith, compassion, and selfless service made a profound difference in countless lives. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at New Hope Lutheran Church on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 10:00 am. In remembrance, his family asks that those wishing to honor him consider acts of kindness and service in their own communities—a fitting tribute to a man whose life was lived in service to others.