Bob “Ole” Olsen passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family and friends October 3rd, 2022. He was born on Bainbridge Island January 18th, 1930 where he lived all his 92 years.
Ole graduated From Bainbridge Island High School in 1948, was the captain for the 1948 Championship State Basketball team. He was named to the All-State team but as he would tell it, the honor should have gone to his Brother in Law and lifelong friend Buck Buchanan. He was a humble man and never talked of his accomplishments only of his friends. He always said you don’t need to tell someone your accomplishments because if they cared they already knew and if they didn’t it wasn’t important.
After serving in the Army, Ole joined his Father Henry Olsen at Hockett and Olsen Automotive. His Father sold him the business in the mid 60’s where he worked until retirement in 1993.
Ole loved to fish, hunt, golf, he was a fan of all sports and motorhoming with his wife of 49 years Joyce Olsen. Until his retirement when they traveled South in the winter, you would find him in the stands of Bainbridge High football and basketball games home or away. Community was important to Ole, coaching Pee Wee basketball over ten years and sponsoring Babe Ruth baseball for over 20. Ole and his friends were some of the original founders of Bainbridge Island Boosters club. He especially loved cooking at the July Fourth Pancake Breakfast.
Ole was preceded in death by his Wife of 49 yrs. Joyce, Mother and Father Ellen and Henry. He is survived by Son Ron Olsen, Grandson Henry (his biggest love), Daughter Tamerra and Granddaughter Julia Andersen and Judy Nimb who we just love.
Our family wants to give thanks to all the friends who have reached out with support, it only verifies how many hearts he touched in his life. The one common denominator was this: Bob Ole Olsen was a GENTLEMAN, a gentleman I am so proud of.
Memorial Service will be held Saturday, November 5th, 2:00p at the Presbyterian Church Rolling Bay, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life at Meadowmeer Golf and Country Club… one of his favorite places. Everyone is welcome.
