Stanley Olsen
April 27, 1927 - December 21, 2020
Gig Harbor, Washington - Stanley G. Olsen "Grumps", loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend to many, left us to ski with his long time ski buddies. Stan was born in Alameda California and graduated from Stadium High School, where he lettered in wrestling. After serving in the navy during WWII, he married the love of his life, Phyllis Udall. During 73 years of marriage, they lived in Tacoma and Gig Harbor. Stan was a builder, owning Oak Construction with his long time partner Fred Kneiffer. Stan and Phyllis bought and remodeled their dream home on Carr Inlet where they hosted many family and friends for beach gatherings, boat races, fishing, water skiing, and other shenanigans. Stan's first love was his family; his second was skiing, followed closely by sailing. Stan instructed for the Tacoma Ski School at Mt Rainier, Snoqualmie, Hyak and Crystal Mountain. He taught his kids and grandkids to ski almost before they could walk. Stan was also a member of the Tacoma Yacht Club and raced his sailboat, Apollo, in Puget Sound regattas. Stan and Phyllis loved playing bridge, competing with friends, often a couple times a week. Stan was preceded by his parents, brothers Roy and Harvey, and his sister Norma. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Olsen, his son David and wife Barbara, his daughter Susan Entenmann and husband Karl, along with grandchildren, Kyra, Tyler, Christel, Brieanne, Myles and Kyle and a gaggle of great-great grandchildren. A celebration of a well lived life will be held at a later date. The family asks that any memorial donations be made to Kindering (an organization supporting young children of diverse abilities and their families) or any food bank.