Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Steven Olson Obituary
Every firehouse has an array of personalities, from pranksters to perfectionists. At Ladder Company 3, on East 13th Street, Steven Olson was known as "the rock."
Cheerful, optimistic, diligent, reliable, Firefighter Olson arrived in 1989, fresh out of the Fire Academy, and never left. He proved to be an excellent probie, short for probationary firefighter. Lately, whenever the older firefighters would try to push a little extra work out of the newest recruits, they would hold him up as an example. "We'd say, 'There hasn't been a good probie here for 12 years, not since Steve Olson,'" said Rob Burmeister, a friend and fellow member of Ladder 3. "He was full of energy. He never sat down."
Firefighter Olson, 38, turned himself into a top fireman. In the 12 years they spent together, his colleagues watched him marry and become the devoted father of two daughters, ages 2 and 7. In the quieter moments at Ladder 3, he'd work on crossword puzzles, usually with a pen.
"He was a confident guy," Firefighter Burmeister said. At fires, "you always felt comfortable working with him," he added. "If you were in trouble, he was coming to get you."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sarah Crouch
September 11, 2024
Dear Family of Steven Olson,
My name is Sarah Crouch from Fort Worth, Texas. I have worn a bracelet with Steven´s name on it since November, 2001.
I think of him everyday, and say his name when I put my bracelet on. He is respected and loved for his bravery and sacrifice.
This 79 year old Great~Grandmother sends love to all of his family.
9~11~2024
S J Friscia III
January 14, 2016
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Jim Newman
September 11, 2013
Thanks for the fun in High School. I'll never forget you and the good times. I am one of many that will always remember
Liz
September 11, 2011
Today on the Tenth Anniversary a ballon with your name in remembrance was released. We will never forget the bravery and sacrifice.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Vicky Mascaro
September 11, 2011
You'll always be remembered!!!
August 29, 2011
THINKING OF YOU
L D
September 11, 2010
I got Steves name on a bracelet years ago. I pray for him and his family every night and will continue.
Eric Kounce
September 16, 2009
I prayed for your family again today!
guys from "The Park"
Bobby Maf
September 15, 2009
miss ya "O"ey
Eric
May 4, 2009
I wear a bracelet honoring Steven every day. He and I are about the same age, and I have a daughter named Jessie as well. Know that I remember. I won't ever forget. I remember.
September 12, 2008
God bless the Olson family. We will NEVER forget the sacrifice of men such as Steven.
The Brady's
September 11, 2008
In loving memory of our wonderful brother in law, uncle and godfather, Steven J. Olson. It's hard to believe it's been 7 years since he's gone, but the memories will live on forever. We are very lucky to have had Steve in our lives and we will never, ever forget him.
Stephen Gonzalez
September 11, 2007
Steve,
God Bless You. Still Miss you everyday. Think about you often.I am here praying for you and your family. Please say some prayers for your your friends still here and our families.We all miss you..
Kelly
September 10, 2007
On the 6th anniversary of 9-11, we will always remember your bravery and the ultimate sacrifice you made. We will NEVER forget!
Always in our hearts and prayers, Steve!!
P Tabbernor
January 21, 2007
In memory....
Kristine
November 22, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Stephen Gonzalez
September 12, 2006
Steve,
Went out to visit you yesterday.Met MAF there. You are still bringing us guys together buddy.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family EVERYDAY.Miss you and think about you daily.God Bless.Love and miss you Howard.
John Sinisi
September 24, 2003
Dear Kenny & the rest -
You haven't heard or seen of me in years, but just wanted you to know that I think of Steven all the time. Your former neighbor from Seidman Avenue -
Michael & Roseann Fornito
January 9, 2003
To the Olson Family: Just wanted to say thank you to Steven for his courage and sacrafice he made on 9/11,a day that will never be forgotten in all of New York no matter how many years may pass. We did not know Steven but for all those lost, we feel that we knew each and everyone one. Many of our friends were lost and we too feel pain.We hope and pray that Steven will give you the courage to go on everyone day. May God Bless Steven and his wife and children.
peace to the United States Of America
Gloria Beckwith
November 1, 2002
my god be with u all
Colleen McGann
September 28, 2002
I wanted to let you know that someone in Arizona thinks of Steven. I never knew him or his name until I participated in a Motorcycle parade on 9-11 to honor those who perished last year ! The plan was to have one motorcycle for each person who gave their lives on 9-11-01. Each of us was given a braclet with the name of a person that passed on. One of the extra braclets I got was Steve's. We had over 7200 motorcycles, they even shut down freeways for the 14 miles of bikes to ride. I was very honored to wear his name..even thought I knew nothing about him..I knew he gave his life for all of US!
My emotions run very high on this subject and just wanted to let his family and friends know that someone in AZ will always be thinking of him !! Please feel free to contact me through my email of [email protected]
Thanks, Colleen
Julie Davis
September 23, 2002
I just received my 9-11 bracelet today with Steve's name on it. I am a retired paramedic, married to a retired fireman. I know what a special person he had to have been. I have the upmost respect and love for my fellow fire and EMS people. I hope that time will help to ease the pain of your loss, and be comforted in the fact that you have your own special guardian angel watching over you and your family. I shall keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I know how it feels to be a fireman's wife, not knowing if they will return home from the call, and I can't imagine the pain of loosing him. May God bless you and your family.
I am sure that there is a special ladder company in Heaven where Steve is now working.........
Steve Martin
September 14, 2002
On September 11, 2002 over 1000 police officers and firefighters paid tribute to our fallen brothers and sisters by making a symbolic climb up the stairs of the tallest building in Phoenix.
Each participant wore a name tag around their arm with the name of a person killed during the attack.
I proudly wore Steven's name around my arm. It now hangs on the mirror of my patrol car as a constant reminder of the sacrifice he made to help people he did not know.
God bless his soul and be with his family.
Officer Stephen L Martin
Arizona Highway Patrol
Jill Young
September 12, 2002
To the Olson Family-
I just received my 9-11 Memorial Bracelet with Steven's name on it. I will be praying for Steven and for your family. I read Steven's profile and he sounded like an incredible person and a wonderful father.
Be strong...
- Jill Young
LYNN (PEDERSEN) K.
September 12, 2002
HEY STEVE, ONE YEAR AND A DAY...WHAT CAN I SAY? YOU WERE SO PRESENT IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS YESTERDAY AS WELL AS ALWAYS...I CARRIED YOUR PICTURE EVERYWHERE YESTERDAY, DOING THE USUAL ERRANDS, THE ZOO WITH MY SON, AND THEN TO A CANDLELIGHT VIGIL AT SNUG HARBOR. THE OTHER NIGHT ON TV THERE WAS A SHOW ON ABOUT THE "CONCERT FOR NEW YORK", AS WITH THE FIRST TIME IT WAS ON, I SAW YOUR PICTURE HELD UP BY YOUR FELLOW FIREFIGHTER WHEN THE WHO WAS PLAYING AND WAS SO PROUD,I SHED A FEW TEARS AND MY 3 1/2 YEAR OLD SON ASKED ME WHAT WAS WRONG. I WOUND UP TELLING HIM ABOUT YOU. HOW YOU WERE SO BRAVE, AND WHAT HAD HAPPENED TO YOU A YEAR AGO, IN THE MOST DELICATE OF WAYS. HE WAS SO STRUCK. I HAVE YOUR PICTURE ON MY REFRIGERATOR AND HE NOW TELLS EVERYONE WHO COMES IN ABOUT MOMMYS FRIEND WHO WAS A FIREMAN, AND BRAVE AND WAS IN THE LONG, LONG BUILDINGS, AND THEN THEY CAME DOWN. HE AT 3 ASPIRES TO BE A FIREMAN. I JUST HOPE HE IS AS WONDERFUL A PERSON AS YOU WERE, STEVE. ANYONE WOULD BE PROUD TO HAVE THEIR CHILDREN BE JUST LIKE YOU, OH YEAH, AND A FIREMAN TO! (HAHA) MISS YOU MUCH AND THINK OF YOU ALWAYS...LYNN
Sascha
September 11, 2002
To Steve's Family,
unfortunally I didn´t know Steven personally, but today I rang the Bell of Freedom here in El Paso, TX to honor him.
After I recived a ribbon with his name on I wanted to know who he was and I found out that he was a brave firefighter, a loving father and beloved husband.
I feel sorry for you, his family and his friends to have lost such a great person in such a sensless act of violence.
God bless him and his family.
Steven Olson
September 11, 2002
To the Olson family:
Especially today, my family in Indiana, sends you love and prayers of encouragement.
God bless you.
Katie Reese
September 11, 2002
I am a tenth grade student at the DuBois Area High School. Last year our Special Ed students made a star with a name of a person who was dead or missing. I got Steve's star, which I will wear during school today and then tack to my bulletin board to always remember he risked his life to help others. God Bless You Steve!
Mike Pietrunti
September 3, 2002
On Sept. 10 I was invited to a NY Yankee Game with a couple of my boys. Steve Olson was one of them, for some reason or another I declined. We all know what happened the next morning. At first I was so upset that I didn't go to the game with steve and my other friends. But then I realized that I was lucky enough to spend I good part of my life growing up with,hanging out with and even living with Steven Olson. I won't look for any words to describe this great man because there aren't any that would do him justice. He was courage when there was fear. He was brave and faced death and stared it down, and that was long before 9/11, and still turned out to be one of the most grounded individuals I ever met. That perpetual grin forever on his face. It truly was a privelige to have know him. I know I speak for all your friends steve, when I say we miss you everday. Someone told me once that God only takes the good ones. This time he has taken one of the very best. Steve I know your up there watching over all of us and our families as well as yor own girls. We couldn't ask for a better guardian angel. I Love you bro and miss you. Your Friend/Brother Michael Pietrunti
Mike Maffei
September 2, 2002
I remember when Steven first started working at Carmens. My brother Bobby introduced us and a new friendship was formed.. He was definatly one of the nicest guys I had ever had the pleasure of knowing..There are so many great memories I have about Steven.. One of the funniest stories i remember very vividly is when Oey was in training for the FDNY..He used to help me do home improvements and this one time we were repairing a roof, going up the ladder wasnt a problem, but getting down, He had me in stitches, he couldnt stand up and turn to get back on the ladder so he would sit. I went up and showed him at least 5 times how to do it, and every time i did he said he could do it, so i would go to the ground, look up and he would be sitting on the roof laughing.. We never laughed so hard..We spent alot of time together in those days of training as we called it.. We would workout at Palms, jog at gateway and play lots of raquetball..He was always a great friend to everybody.. He will be missed in the physical world, but all of our loving memories will keep him alive forever..I think about you everyday Steven.. God bless your family and friends always
don geary
August 31, 2002
steve O,howard,oey,owens or whatever else we may have called you by. you were the most levelheaded guy I ever met. Despite all the despair that was dealt to you you remained a rock.always remember the 1st trip to florida in the fairlane you sat shotgun while pd luded out in the back most of the trip. We all may lose touch with each other as we move on with our lives but we never forget . You are still a great man Howard we will never forget you.
Bobby MAF
August 30, 2002
I will never forget all the good times Oey and all of us from THE PARK had all those years ago..The trips to Florida.I would trade anything to go back to the days of Sluggo drivin that ugly Red Pinto station wagon and Oey drivin that banged up White Toyota and me and my Mustangs..Visiting Monte every other day.. Oey and I were always partners in paddleball at the park...You couldnt get many balls by us with our long arms..Then we decided to move out of our houses and into the Dorval Ave house. What great times!!!After work we would have Santos ,Ginkus , Fish-head over and watch David Letterman and Star Trek with Nickyboy and Borelli..The superbowl party we had when the Raiders beat the Redskins was just awesome..
Of course I cooked all our food and I was the one who introduced Santos to his first taste of eggplant parmisian..hahaha..I even made Oey Corned Beef and Cabbage on St Patricks day..All those nights working in Carmens kitchen with the radio blasting and playing Name that Tune with Oey and Mikey and even Dougie D would make the night go faster..Steve always won..We would fight over who would be coming with me to "take out the garbage"..All those years playing for Q's Pirates..Great times seeing my buddies every sunday morning even with a hang-over..How about seeing Roger Water in concert with all the gang..What a blast....We'll all miss you Oey..There are many times a song would play on the radio and it instantly gives me a flashback as a song Oey intruduced to me..Talking Heads, U2 , Genesis and of course the Stones..If only I could turn back time and put us back at Klondikes with the Booze Bros..Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd...........MAF
Lynn Kriegl (Pedersen)
July 21, 2002
How do I begin to put into words what a great person Steve was. We were friends during high school, which were turbulent times for him and his family. After he dusted himself off after being knocked down, he could have been bitter, but in reality, Steve was the nicest, warmest, understanding person I have ever met to this day. He had every right to be angry in his life but he wasn't. He would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. I do cherish the time we spent together. I specifically remember as teens, when someone would make fun of another person in our group, Steve was there to say, "Ah, give him a break, he's ok" And I always respected him for being so kind to the "under-dogs". I have this photograph of Steve digging my car out from under a TON of snow that got plowed in on Hylan Blvd. It was just like him even at that young "teenage" year, to be so galante, and always helping out a friend in need. I really cherish that picture most of all out of the few I have of him. It was just typical Steve, "Owey". I do think about the people he was with in the WTC and I feel like they had to see what a wonderful person he was before they passed on. I bet he made them feel safe. They were lucky to have the BEST in humanity with them that day. I never met Patty,unfortunately, until Steve's funeral, but it was so nice to know that my friend Steve who really earned the right to be happy met someone that truly loved him and had 2 BEAUTIFUL daughters.I am so happy he had happiness in his life. I wish I could do something for them. I think about Patty, and the girls every day and can't figure out what to do for her or their children. I feel helpless. Besides giving to the Firemens widows and childrens fund (my 16 yr.old daughter also donated her pay check to that fund) I wish there was something more I could do. I hope one day to know what I can help Steven's family with. Right now, I just want them to know I think about Steven and Patty and Jackie and Jesse every single day, and I know I will until the day I die. Always in my prayers. God Bless you all.
Barbara Kohn
May 23, 2002
Mrs. Steven J. Olson,
Our heartfelt condolences go to you and your family during this very difficult time in your lives. We did not know your husband personally, but feel a connection with you and your family.
My son, Mike was a participant and Bronze Medal winner in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah in February 2002. Upon his arrival at the Olympic Village, Mike received a 9/11 bracelet bearing the name of your husband, Steven J. Olson. Mike was proud to wear this bracelet during the games honoring Steven and his heroic act on that tragic day that took his life.
Mike would like to present this bracelet to you as a keepsake. If you or a family member could contact me, I will explain more and give you the details.
Again, we are deeply saddened by your loss and our prayers are with you and your family everyday. God Bless.
Angie Campbell
May 8, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Christine Brenneck
April 26, 2002
To Steve's Family,
Steve and my brother Michael were very close as children and Owey as we called him, spent a lot of time growing up in our home. Steve was a wonderful kid who grew up to be a great man. He was sweet, kind and considerate. Steve had more sorrow and sadness in his short life than one person should have to go through but he never lost his joy for life or his optimistic attitude. No matter what life threw his way, he always picked himself up and kept on going.He was an example to all of us. I am happy Steve was able to experience the joy of the love that comes from marriage and having children. He will always be remembered by the Brenneck. We loved him as one of our own.
Christine Brenneck
SI, NY
April 22, 2002
Steve Olson was the nicest and most dedicated family man. This is truly a great loss. God Bless his wife and children.
Gina
April 2, 2002
I want to say that im praying for all of Steve's family and friends.
Dorothy Ferraro
March 27, 2002
My mother-in-law Mary was a co-worker of Mr. Olsen's mother-in-law Arleen Larson, who I had the pleasure of meeting a few times.
My heartfelt condolences to her, her daughter and young family. My prayers are with you every day.
Robert Miller
March 21, 2002
ALL PRAYERS AND THANKS GO OUT TO ALL THE FALLEN. GOD BLSSS STEVEN J OLSON AND ALL OF HIS COMRADES
March 19, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO...STEVEN JOHN OLSON AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN..FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS ..ST.STEVEN AND ST.JOHN GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Mrs P
March 14, 2002
March 13, 2002
Respectfully Requested of the family & friends of Firefighter Steven John Olson:
I have decided to participate in the 9/11 memorial quilt project.
I would very much appreciate any info that I might be able to use in my block honoring this man. I could incorporate a photo, or favorite saying, or a special interest if someone would care to share that with me. Contact me please: [email protected] so I can do a good job.
I am so sorry for your loss...
Ida Buffone
March 13, 2002
To the Olson Family,
My heartfelt thoughts go out to all of you. I had the wonderful experience of working with Steve before he became a fireman. We worked together at a television production facility where Steve was a an assistant video tape editor. Steve was always a happy guy and we always enjoyed going out with him and other co-workers. There was never a dull moment when we would go out with Steve. When we heard that he received the opportunity to become a fireman, we knew that Steve would be the best firefighter and that he would save so many lives. Steve will be honored and remembered as someone who gave of himself to make others happy, make other's laugh, and most importantly, saving the lives of people. Again, my heartfelt condolences to his wife and girls...
Ida Buffone
Buddy Walker
March 3, 2002
Steve was a great guy to hang around with, always positive, never had a bad thing to say about anybody! My prayers are with Patty, Jackie, Jessica, and all the Kellys, Larsons, and Olsons. Anyone who ever met Steve should honor and cherish his memory because he was truly one of a kind. The world would be a much better place if there were more people like Steve.
Judy C
December 31, 2001
Dear Steven and Olson Family,
What wonderful words express your beloved Steven. We found out just how many heroes there were in NYC on September 11. Everyone who perished is truly a hero and the family and firefighters who have to bear the pain and loss of their beloved loved ones have my thoughts and prayers. These are the heroes of the day, now. The survivors who struggle to get through each day!
Rest In Peace with God, Steven. I know you live with God because that is where Angels live!
God Bless the Olson Family and fellow firefighters!
Christine Kelly
December 28, 2001
Steven J. Olson was a great guy and we'll miss him greatly.
Teresa Jahn
December 17, 2001
We thank Steven for dedicating his life as a firefighter helping others. Such dedication comes with a huge, warm, and caring heart. May Steven's confidence, values, warmth, life and love live on through his children. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Steven. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Arleen Larson
December 3, 2001
Steve was such a loving, patient man. I never knew anyone who was so devoted to his three girls, Patty, Jackie and Jessie. He was so loved
and will be missed by our family.
Stevie Olson is a true hero and friend.
Robert Larson
December 3, 2001
There was no one man in the world who was as kind, loving, and funny like Steve. He was a man who always put his wife and children first and foremost. Words cannot describe the emptiness in my heart and in our lives since he passed. He will be greatly missed.
Showing 1 - 50 of 50 results
Make a Donation
in Steven Olson's name
How to support Steven'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 Steven Olson'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
Sponsored