Richard Duane Olsen

Richard Duane Olsen, age 87, passed away on March 26th 2022 in Lacey WA. He was born in Deaconess Hospital on March 9th, 1935 to Philip and Irma Olsen in Spokane, Washington. “Dick,” as he was known, graduated from Rogers High School with the class of 1952. Upon graduation he entered the US Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. He served in the Coast Guard for twenty-four commissioned years retiring as a Captain. During his career he was on many various ships from ice breakers to buoy tenders. After retirement he became the Director of Safety with the Stevedoring Services of America. He went on to work as a Maritime Safety Consultant. Dick traveled the world in his various professions.

Dick received his master’s degree in Public Administration from George Washington University in Washington D.C. and worked for the Secretary of Transportation.

Many of Dick’s interests included playing the mandolin both professionally and for fun. He was also an avid skier and was on the ski patrol for 20 years at the Snoqualmie Summit. Of his many affiliations he was a Life Member of the Masonic Lodge in Japan. He boated with Bellevue Yacht Club and enjoyed a good game of golf. Dick enjoyed seventeen years as a snowbird with his wife, Barbara, in Yuma, Arizona. His leanings were always towards the babies and dogs at the flea market. He was really a “people” person and gave great hugs. Dick was a friend to all.

Dick is survived by his wife, Barbara (McKee) and was married for 65 years. He leaves behind his children who live across the country, Gregory Olsen of Stevensville, Montana; Cynthia Adams of Yucca Valley, California; and Kevin Olsen of Bath, Michigan. Dick has six grandchildren; two step-grandchildren and five great grandchildren. His sister, Phyllis Campbell survived him while his brothers Jerry (J.J.) Olsen and James Olsen preceded him in death.

The family has requested a celebration of life at a graveside service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the US Coast Guard Alumni Association; the Senior Center of Olympia, Washington at 222 Columbia St. NW. Olympia, Washington; or your local chapter of the Masonic Order.

Many thanks to Green’s Funeral Home in Bellevue who made the arrangements for our beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

A graveside service for Richard will be held Thursday, May 19, 2022 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Sunset Hills Funeral Home, 1215 145th Place SE, Bellevue, WA 98007.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsethillsfuneralhome.com for the Olsen family.