Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John OLNEY Obituary
It was a brutal and bravely fought battle, and through it all he never lost the gentleness, generosity, sense of humor and love of fishes (and passion for teaching students about them) that, among so many special qualities, made him uniquely wonderful and unforgettable. He was 62.
Professor Olney was first employed at VIMS in 1972 and joined the faculty in 1979. During his 36-year career, he specialized in zooplankton ecology, fisheries science, and the early life history and evolution of fishes. He was widely known as an expert in the identification of young stages of fishes and published and taught extensively in this field. During the course of his career, he published 75 papers in technical journals, including numerous book chapters.
He headed the VIMS Anadromous Fishes research program and was a well-known expert on the biology and conservation of American shad. Along with his students and collaborators, he published 25 papers on American shad and was principal advisor to the Virginia Marine Resources Commission and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission on decisions related to shad management in Virginia. Early in the discussions about the Mattaponi River-King William Reservoir, he warned of the potential impacts of the project to shad reproduction.
Professor Olney was a respected teacher and advisor, serving as major professor to 22 graduate students and offering his knowledge and expertise to many students at VIMS and other institutions. His service to college governance was extensive and included appointments to the Academic Affairs, Planning and Resources, and Executive Committees of the William & Mary Faculty Assembly. Within the School of Marine Science, he served as Chair of both the Academic Council and Educational Policy Committee, and was a member of the Academic Status and Degrees, Library Advisory, and Admissions Committees. He served as Chair of the Department of Fisheries Science from 2006 to 2009.
Friends, family and colleagues valued his culinary talents. For many years, he cooked for VIMS students at their fall fundraiser, as well as for the faculty at their annual seafood fest. Springs brought promise of morel mushroom hunting in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with good friends at his side, a ritual that he practiced for over two decades.
He is survived by his wife, Lee Larkin; son, John E. Olney Jr.; daughter, Susan O. Napiecek; brother, Willard W. Olney; two sisters, Sylvia Kelley and Amelia Hellman; and one grandchild, Andrew Blatnik.
Memorial gifts may be made to the Virginia Institute of Marine Science Foundation (VIMS Foundation) for the benefit of the John Edward Olney Endowment, a fund dedicated to furthering the education of young marine biologists, c/o VIMS, P.O. Box 1346, Rte. 1208 Greate Road, Gloucester Point, VA 23062.
A graveside service will be held at the Peninsula Memorial Park at noon on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010. On Friday, Jan. 15, 2010, the family will receive friends at the home of Lee Larkin from 3 to 6 p.m. A celebration of John's life will be scheduled in the spring of 2010 at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science.
Arrangements by Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point. Please visit www.hoggfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John OLNEY
February 16, 2010
You have no more beautiful legacy than John Jr. and Susan.....
Jack McGovern
January 29, 2010
John, Susan, and Lee
I am very sad to hear of John's passing. John was my major professor during the 1980s and taught me a great deal about larval fishes, how to catch a big red drum, and how to have fun. He was my friend and mentor. I will miss him very much.
Diana Musick-Hutchens
January 18, 2010
My name is Diana Musick Hutchens, Mr. Olney was my 10th grade biology teacher at York High School in 1970. He made such an impression on me that I was stuck by reading of his death. While he was a young man in 1970 he was an inspiration to his students. I just spent some time reviewing my high school year book and read the entries by other students about how much we enjoyed his class. I recall him so well, he was not afraid to challenge us and I know how much he contributed to my decision to go to William and Mary eventhough my family could not affort it. I remember him telling me to go for what I really wanted and I did. I attribute my success to several teaches who saw my potential and he was definitely one of them. While I appreciate your loss please be reminded of what he did to encourage others and what a wonderful legacy he leaves behind.
ruth napier-reid
January 18, 2010
Just wanted to say how much he was loved by so many people. I enjoyed getting to know him and I pray his family will be well and take great care in themselves. Lee we are here for you in any way we can. love Ruth
Juanita
January 18, 2010
I have known John for some 25 plus years and he was such a kind, gentle, caring and wonderful person. His laughter was awesome and his friendship will endure forever in our hearts. He will be greatly missed.
Laura Bateman
January 17, 2010
Olney family,
I am so sorry to learn of John's passing. What a magnificent and beautiful person.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mark Patterson
January 16, 2010
Dear Lee, Susan, John, and the rest of the lovely Olney family, My deepest condolences on the loss of dear John. John was one of the first faculty I met when I arrived at VIMS, and within 24 hours of meeting him I was invited to a party at his house. A consummate outdoorsman, I learned a lot of from him during many trips afield in search of whitetail deer. He taught me how to identify edible mushrooms, now a passion I combine with my hunting. One of the finest improv humorists I have ever met, like many of his friends and family, we all have a fund of "Olneyisms" to sustain our fond memories. Whenever I think of John I can't help but smile. That's his wonderful legacy. XO Mark, Susan, Sarina, and Linnea
Ann Giles Lewis
January 15, 2010
I loved the whole Olney family. John's mom and dad were just wonderful. I knew John when he and I were teenagers. We both went to the Presbyterian Church. I admired his sister, Sylvia, very much. I now live in Atlanta Georgia area, but my cousin Susan Fowler Moorman sent me to obituary. I just wanted to express my condolences to those remaining. Ann Giles Lewis (Mr. & Mrs. Vance Nunn's granddaughter)
Mark Hughes
January 15, 2010
What I remember most about John during our days @ Ferguson High and William & Mary was his infectious laugh with a big, broad smile and knee slap. Always one for imparting timely, little bits of Wit and Wisdom and lending a welcome hand when necesssary.
My sincere condolences to family and all those who held John close to heart.
January 15, 2010
I extend my deepest sympathy to the family, friends, and associates of John E. Olney.
Very sincerely,
Joanne K Roos, Yorktown, Virginia
Lyndsey Lefebvre
January 15, 2010
Though I knew John only a short while, I have been profoundly touched and my life has been positively impacted by his generosity (of time, knowledge, resources, and laughter) and his lust of life and all things fishes. In him, I found an example of how I want to lead both my professional and personal lives.
To his family and friends, my profound sympathies. Know that each person lucky enough to know John carries a piece of him onwards: it's inevitable when you're in the presence of such a "big" man.
January 15, 2010
When I first heard about John yesterday, my mind was flooded with memories of our days at Ferguson High School. We were classmates, friends, and I always thought the world of John--he was just always "a genuinely nice guy." I've been so out of touch over the years as I haven't lived on the Peninsula since 1970. To John's family, he will always hold a special place in all our hearts who knew him. I'm just so sorry to learn he was here, in Charleston, and I never knew it.
Jane (Ayers) Horn, Charleston, SC
YON WHITE
January 15, 2010
JOHN & SUSAN,
I hope you & your family the best during this homegoing of your dad.Hold your heads hi because he faught a great fight with this sickness.Try to remember all the great memories that will allways be in your heart.GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!
Ana Faria
January 15, 2010
John was a great man, a wonderful teacher, with great humor, great kindness and a big heart. I feel very lucky for having met John and he will always be in my heart.
January 15, 2010
I was dismayed to learn of John's passing. His courage and spirt in the last year have been an example we should all hope to emulate in the face of adversity. It will be hard to find someone who can follow his lead and make comparable contributions to fishery science and conservation.
My condolences to the Onley extended family and may God speed your healing.
Bob Pride
Poquoson
Louis Daniel
January 15, 2010
Dear Olney Family,
John was such a big part of my life as my major professor and friend. Many of my successes today can be attributed to him. He was a great man with a passion for fishes and the outdoors and who would brighten any room he entered.
With deepest sympathy,
Louis Daniel
Alton Turley
January 15, 2010
Peace to the Olney family.
Howard Puckett
January 15, 2010
It is sad to learn of John's passing. He and I attended high school together and I remember him as being very personable and an outstanding student - one with unbridled talent and promise. His legacy as an outstanding scientist and mentor will live on for many years to come.
Cam Yacobi
January 14, 2010
To Sylvia, Buddy, Amy and the entire Olney Family,
I cannot tell you how saddened I am of just now learning of John's death. He and I would email on occasion and I just had no idea he was sick.
I've always felt like extended family...I guess we actually are...but I just wanted to let you all know how fond I was of John and will surely miss him.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
My sympathy to you all and God bless.
Rosalee Sprout
January 14, 2010
To the family of John Olney,
I only met John once, but I feel I know him through his sister, Sylvia. My heart goes out to all of you on your loss. May your love for one another support you now.
Bernie Freeman
January 14, 2010
To the entire Olney family: John's death is such a loss to this world. I have know him since he was a student in the 1960s at Ferguson High School, and I knew then that he was going to make a name for himself. He was a super student with a great personality (just like his siblings!)and an all-around fine person. He will be missed by so many folks. Please know all of the family are in my thoughts at this difficult time.
Keri Simmons
January 14, 2010
John and Susan,
I was so saddened to hear of your Dad's passing. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. Love to you both,
Keri Allaun Simmons
Fred Jacobs
January 14, 2010
John, Susan and Family,
What will always remain with me are the Pathfinder cruises that we shared back in the 70s. Whether it was skimming Porterhouse steaks off the waves, drinking at Vesuvios, or listening to Captain Jack or Harvey stories, John's infectious laugh always added another dimension to the occasion. So many memories. Such a loss!
Bob Carroll
January 14, 2010
The world and everyone who knew Dr. Olney will miss his laugh greatly. I will remember his laugh forever. Good luck John moving through.
Demetria Christo
January 14, 2010
To John's Family: Thank you for John.
We'll all miss John immensely.
He was such a good man and by far the most important mentor of my adolescent to young adult life.
He and Pat Crewe looked out for me as teachers rather than an employers. He was especially a good friend that I will always look up to and respect.
He was always handing me of opportunities by the handful--a Larval Fish course here, expert-in-the-field introductions there, participation in critical projects in the area--so I almost felt guilty for not going into Fisheries Science.
And--he was funny! One of my favorite memories of him is his unfettered humor at a holiday 'Mean Santa' game at his house. (In the game, each successive gift receiver can jack the present from the person before! He loved that part! His taunts were hilarious!)
He always looked out for his people.
Thank you so much, John for all that you've done.
Thank you, John's family for allowing him to be in all of our lives.
Roy and Sandra Hyle
January 14, 2010
My earliest memory of John growing up was Buddy's little brother playing with their Irish Setter (Bo?). Later in life our paths crossed again. John, the research scientist, accepted our son as one of his graduate students in fisheries. At that time John e-mailed me and said "once again the Olney and Hyle families are connected. To Reid and all graduate students John was more than a mentor; he was a friend. A part of John lives on in all that knew him. We will miss John.
Ann Petersen
January 14, 2010
John was my first mentor in marine biology. Today I am teaching a marine biology course at the University of Oregon thanks to John's guidance and inspiration. I will always remember his voice, laugh, and love of biology. I will think of John today when I teach, and try to carry on his wonderful passion for sharing curiosity and knowledge. He will always be very special to me and my whole family.
Donald Sandridge
January 14, 2010
John, Susan and Family! Sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad! You are in my thoughts and prayers!
Don " D'Otis " Sandridge
Eric Miller
January 14, 2010
To John’s Family,
My deepest sympathies go out to you. While I only spent a brief period with John in his 2007 summer larval fish course, I was very impressed with John’s character and passion for life. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to study under him. My wife and I will keep you in our prayers.
Donna Beard
January 14, 2010
John was a high school classmate and was extremely popular - Prom King :) He was always happy and friendly and loved by all. It was a wonderful surprise to be able to work with John on the Sexual Harassment Committee for several years at W&M. He had not changed. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, just grateful that there is no more pain.
Dan McCusker
January 14, 2010
Susan, Andrew and family. Your Daddy, your Pawpaw, was an amazing man. It is clear that he touched a great many people and he will be missed. I am sure his spirit lives on in all whom he touched...especially you two. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, and your father.
Jo Ellen Fotiou
January 14, 2010
John, Susan, and family,
My prayers are with you and your family. He was a wonderful, funny, and dedicated man. I had such a great time while working at VIMS with your dad, Pat, Fred, and at the helm George. I know George and your dad are together having a great laugh. He will be truly missed.
January 13, 2010
Susan and Andrew - Your Papa was a very special person and I know how much each of you loved him...I only met him a few times but every time he had a smile on his face and a very warm welcome for me. John Jr., Sylva, Frank, Ame and family, thank you for allowing me into your lives and homes as Susan's friend. She is very a special person as you all well know....My sincerest condolences...Carolyn Brabrand
Michael & Nancy Williford
January 13, 2010
I am sorry to hear about John. Our thoughts and those of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
January 13, 2010
John & Susan you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I know he is in a much better place but know that does not make it any easier. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you all!...Michelle Todd Durham
Michael Arendt
January 13, 2010
In retrospect I only knew John Sr for a brief period of my still short life, but he had a tremendously positive impact on me...his passing is a great loss and it is only the very fond memory of his beaming smile and unique laugh that helps settle the lump in my throat, and I hope that such memories are also therapeutic for others grieving, especially his family.
Elizabeth Wenner
January 13, 2010
I have known John for over 36 years, spent time at sea with him, and enjoyed having him come to Charleston to work on our plankton collection here. He was always enthusiastic about life. I know how much you will miss him. There are many good memories to treasure. I am sure that he and George Grant are sharing a good laugh right now.
Carole Baldwin
January 13, 2010
John, Susan, Lee, Buddy, Sylvia, and Ame. In December John wrote to me "... but I have wonderful and loving support from Lee and the kids and my family (Bud, Syb, Ame have kept in close touch)." He was so appreciative. He was the kindest man, and I feel lucky to have known, loved, and been loved by him. I share your pain.
Hope Cannella
January 13, 2010
John, Susan and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
January 13, 2010
Susan and Family,
Please know I am very sorry for your loss. I am sure the time you were able to spend with your Dad over the past year was very meaningful.
Warm regards,
Laura Burger
January 13, 2010
Susan, My thoughts are with you and your family. I pray that your dad is resting peacefully now and that you are comforted by that. Please know I'm here if you need anything. God Bless.
Connie
Beth Klein
January 13, 2010
Sending are heart felt condolences.
Love,
Beth and Criag Klein
January 13, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with John's family and friends. He will be sorely missed.
Deniece Cothern Byrne
January 13, 2010
John, Susan and family,
I am so sorry for your loss and will pray for you during this time. Know that God only takes the best and we know that your dad was truly one of the best!
Dick & Nancy Petty
January 13, 2010
We were so sad to learn of John's passing even though we knew that it was inevitable. We have so many fond memories of our time with John as well as with Sylvia, Buddy, and Ame. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family and we know that at this time there will be many trying moments, but, even though it is hard we are comforted in knowing that John is in a better place without any suffering. We love all of you!
Dick and Nancy Petty
Showing 1 - 45 of 45 results
Make a Donation
in John OLNEY's name
Memorial Events
for John OLNEY
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John OLNEY's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
