This is my brother Jeff Olson while visiting at Christmas time in 2022. He was healthy and happy and we had many laughs that year while playing games like ping pong and poker - he was good at both, especially poker. His ALS was noticed in October of 2023 but he was diagnosed in January 2024 and he thought he would be okay for 3-5 years. He ended his life via EOLOA on August 23rd 2024 after feeling as though he was failing along several fronts - limb onset, swallowing, etc.
His wish was to have his body buried at sea off the coast of Newport Beach CA a few days later.
He chose to not contact any family of his decision to end his own life - however his family and friends began to get the news of his death in October, friends calling family and the word spreading that way. He mandated no obituary, no death notices, no memorial, not a letter to be sent to family; he chose to not say good-bye. 
I can't imagine what he was going through since I have not been in that mental state, but all of his friends and family that I have spoken with wish they had the chance to spend more time with him  and wonder why he didn't reach out.
I forgive him - although it hurts to hear from one of his friends that we  Jeff said we were "estranged"- especially when we had spoken on July 19th and also in March when I found out he was diagnosed with ALS. We were not estranged - he was just saying that so I would remember him as a strong big brother, not someone suffering from a terminal disease.
And now our family is left with so many questions - but none can truly be answered because Jeff is not here and gave no instructions. Death for some is the end, but for those left behind we continue to seek clarity after a loved one is gone. Maybe someday we will get that letter from Jeff, maybe it was lost in transit - still hoping for that - 
-Andy Olson - brother of Jeff Olson

Jeff was a great friend to me as I hope I was to him. He shared just about everything with me. His thoughts, dreams, disputes, etc He helped as much as I hope I helped him I introduced him to gardening & share my favorite flowers with him Long bearded Iris. To say he was interesting is an understatement. He always told everyone I saved his life (long story) Andy if you read this I would love to know if he has a resting place ..else I guess  could go where we picked raspberries for his jam from his hometown. With my deepest sympathy & ❤️‍🩹 
Laura Lazo

I’d like to direct my comment directly to Jeff, if only he could see it… Jeff, I'm heartbroken that you are gone, my dear friend. You were my hero when I needed one most. I had just seen you not knowing you would be gone within a couple weeks. I didn't say goodbye knowing it would be the last time. I am reminded of you constantly by so many things: a car parked backwards, car racing, Hyundai Velosters, personality profiles (especially Enneagram), dream analysis, references to life during Covid which we went through together, oatmeal cookies, hibiscus flowers, rose bushes, topiary plants, a finger cut, washing dishes in cold water (what?!), anything about healthy eating and fitness (pull-ups especially), hemp-peppermint soap, monk fruit, French-press coffee, Peet’s Garuda Blend, artificial fragrances which you totally avoided, Maui, Korea, Chinese checkers, word games, and OF COURSE our common favorite Texas Hold’em POKER and more. I will miss you and will remember you fondly forever. LOVE, CLARE

I am deeply saddened to hear the news. Jeff hired me into Caltrans and helped me ease into the new job. He was very supportive of his staff and he enjoyed engagement with us from small chats to fun little games in staff meetings. He was dedicated to his work and strived to work for the best interest of the department. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Jeff, you will be greatly missed.

My deepest condolences to Jeff’s family.  
Jeff has been of great help to me and our organization, KSEA.  Jeff has been a significant contributor to the Sacramento Valley’s KSEA Math and Science Competitions for children who dream of becoming future engineers and scientists in the valley. 
And I also  remember that I traveled with Jeff over 550 miles to Boise, Idaho.  Jeff and Steve took turns driving, and it was a very enjoyable and pleasant trip that I will never forget.  
I wish Jeff eternal peace in his resting place. 
Young Lee

Jeff Olson was a beloved friend of mine at work. He started out as my temporary Boss but quickly became a close friend/ confidant. We both worked later than most and he made a point to walk me to my car every day for my safety. I would love it when he shared his ideas with me as he was so very intelligent and sophisticated. We had great conversation and debates. Both he and I loved the smell of patchouli oil. He often wore that as cologne. I truly appreciated his quirky nature and was actually quite fond of it. I was often thinking of hm after his retirement. He will be missed by me and thought of often in reverence and love. I feel lucky to have known him and called him friend.

Jeff was always that smiling face and helping hand each time our paths crossed. My condolences.

My condolences to Jeff's family. I to am saddened and shocked  to hear of Jeff's passing. Jeff worked for me for many years in various areas of Caltrans. He was a happy person and always had a smile on his face. He was our tour guide in Northern California for our bridge inspection trip many years ago. What a beautiful area to grow up in. May Jeff now enjoy his well deserved eternal rest.

I am deeply saddened by Jeff’s passing.  I will always remember his cheerfulness and smiley face.  May you rest in peace Jeff.

My greatest condolences to Jeff’s family.  I always worked in a different department than Jeff but knew Jeff well., and for so many years!! He will be missed. Bye Jeff, may you rest in peace. God bless you.

I am deeply saddened to hear the passing of Jeff. For the brief time I worked with him, I found him to be energetic, and helpful.  My sincere condolences to his family. RIP

I am very sorry for the terrible news about Jeff's passing. Jeff was always a very engaged, hard worker trying to accomplish the best possible work product with his team. I always appreciated his professionalism and dedication. My sincere condolences to his family. May you rest in Peace, Jeff.

I am in shock and so saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing. I will always remember his gentle and kind demeanor overlying a keen sense of humor - this came out at many a poker game. He was such a sweet man and he will always be missed. 
My condolences to Jeff’s family. 
Jeff- thank you for your kindness, the fun we had, and for sharing your cookie recipe. I will always treasure who you were on planet Earth.
 💜 RIP

I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Jeff was always full of energy and positive. He was one of my poker buddies. He always had a story to tell that made me laugh.  I will miss him.

I am deeply saddened to hear the news. I saw Jeff as very energetic and passionate about what he does. His commitment is inspiring to me. I sorry for the loss and my prayers are with you.

To Jeff, my brother the white bear, rest in peace. We had some good times together in Seattle, Portland, NYC, et al. That's what I'll remember.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my first boss at Caltrans, Jeff Olson. Jeff was always enthusiastic about learning new things and inspired his staff with his unique brand of engineer’s humor. He encouraged us to explore all possibilities and broaden our horizons in delivering our work. He never hesitated to pursue his interest in learning different languages, often bringing laughter to the office as he practiced his latest linguistic endeavor. 

I will always cherish the memories of working with Jeff and hold them close to my heart. My sincerest condolences go out to his family as they navigate this difficult time.

Rest in Peace, Jeff.

I was profoundly shocked and saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing. His vibrant energy and enthusiasm were evident in every interaction. 

Although I had the privilege of working with him for only a brief period, his impact was significant.  I learned a great deal from Jeff in that short time, particularly in organization skills professionally and personally, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. His supportive nature and genuine interest in diverse cultures and languages were truly admirable.  In my early days with Caltrans, he frequently offered valuable advice and insights, both professionally and personally.  My deepest condolences go to the Olson family during this difficult time. Jeff’s absence will be deeply felt, and he will be greatly missed.

Ibrahim Alrubaye

I am deeply saddened to hear the passing of Jeff. 

Jeff was a great and very supportive boss that his team will never forget. He was so dedicated to work and to produce high-quality results for the department. He was always open to new ideas and suggestions made by his team. 

He liked to share fun stories and to learn new words in different languages and how to say them. He enjoyed making his famous Huckleberry and Raspberry jams that were delicious. 

I worked with Jeff for almost seven years and it was very sad to hear that he passed away. My sincere condolences to the Olson Family.  Jeff , you will be truly missed ! 

Dana Abdul Rahim

I had the privilege of working alongside Jeff for four years, and during that time, I came to know him as a dedicated, and thoughtful person. He cared deeply about his work and the people around him, always offering support in his own unique way.  My deepest 
condolences to his family and loved ones.

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.  I worked with Jeff for many years and found his work ethic and concern for the Department to be high priorities that guided his actions every day.  Jeff was a big believer in doing the right thing and that attitude carried over to other staff that worked with him.  Jeff also valued a fun work environment and was very supportive of any event that would bring staff together.  It's very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with his family during this challenging time.

I am saddened to learn of your loss. Please know that we’re thinking of you and are here for anything you may need. Words of sympathy feel inadequate in expressing grief and sorrow for a loss so great person. Sending a warm embrace and all my love during this sad time.

Sorry to hear the passing of Jeff. He was a great boss and friend. He had a wealth of knowledge that he liked sharing. He would show us his hand strength by ripping the Yellow page book in half. When we couldn't find one, we would look around the office for something similar, so that he could prove that he could do it.  Jeff was a great person, and he will be truly missed. 

I send my condolences to the Olson Family.

Detoya Hall

OBITUARY

Jeff Elvin Olson

July 19, 1961 – August 23, 2024

Lombard Funeral Home

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