Scott Richard Olson

Scott Richard Olson of Colorado Springs, passed away unexpectedly on February 22nd due to complications from a recent knee surgery. A week short of his 66th birthday, he was taken too soon from his loving family: his daughter Kristen Olson and her son Phoenix Scott; his daughter, Lauren Wallace, her husband Erik Wallace and their daughter Elle Wallace. He is also survived by mother Virginia Louise Olson (Denver, CO), his sister, Jill Glaser (Ft. Collins, CO); brothers, Steve Olson (Denver, CO) and Doug Olson (Petaluma, CA), and former wife Rebecca Bennett (Colorado Springs, CO).

A lifetime resident of Colorado, Scott inherited from his father, Richard Hugo Olson, a passion for skiing, fly fishing, hiking and stewardship of the land and animals. From his mother, Virginia Louise Olson, he developed great sensitivity for people, family and relationships. Scott expressed these qualities in his work by seeking spiritual growth, peace, justice and the healing of our Earth. His remarkable paintings of ocean mammals reflect his special talents. Scott described himself as "a carpenter, a life-enhancing retreat facilitator, writer and artist."

An avid learner, Scott graduated from The University of Denver with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, which served him well in his careers in finance, sales and most recently, as Executive Director of Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission. Twenty-five years ago, Scott joined the Ridhwan School in Boulder, becoming a devoted student of the Diamond Heart Approach. This quest widened his circle of friends and expanded his full and loving heart.

Scott identified deeply with the dolphins and great whales, leading groups from Florida to Hawaii to swim and learn with these loving, expressive beings. His website, DolphinSmile.org, attracted worldwide interest, and his beautiful book, Messages from the Dolphins, continues to delight readers.

Scott believed that peace is not about what you are against, but about what you are for. His positive way of thinking and his appreciation for the sanctity and beauty of all life were infectious and strengthened all who knew him. Scott's kindness, electric sense of joy and contagious laughter will be sorely missed, and never forgotten. We remember Scott through Rumi’s ancient words, “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in one drop."

In lieu of flowers, please donate graciously in his name to the non-profit organization EarthJustice, which he identified as the premiere crusaders for environmental protection.

A celebration of Life gathering will be held at the Columbine Unity Church, 8900 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, CO 80303, April 14, 2018 at 2pm. All Welcome!