Bill was born in Chicago, Illinois to Myrtle and Thomas Olsen. He grew up in Elmhurst, Illinois where he graduated from Steinmetz High School. He met the love of his life, Adrienne, soon after while attending the University of Illinois at Navy Pier in Chicago. He received his first Engineering Degree (B.S. Civil Engineering) from the University of Illinois and served in the Illinois Army National Guard. Bill later went on to receive a Doctorate degree from Northwestern and spent the rest of his career as a Professor of Engineering at Florida State University for 17 years and a practicing Professional Engineer with URS and other firms until 2012.
Adrienne and Bill were married in Chicago where they started their family and then moved to Tallahassee, Florida. Bill had a passion for photography, music, cooking, and spending time with Adrienne. His family fondly remembers the smells of great food and the sounds of music in the house throughout their youth as dinner was prepared and Bill played reel-to-reel tapes ranging from classical masters to classic rock.
Bill lived a full life and has left a lasting legacy. He is survived by his wife Adrienne; his children Christine, Tom, Erica, and Ronnie; his 8 grandchildren; a great grandson, his brother Robert Olsen; and a large extended family. In accordance with Bill’s wishes, a private service will be held for family.
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