Paul L Olsen

In Loving Memory of Paul L. Olsen

September 28, 1943 – September 16, 2025

Paul L. Olsen entered his heavenly home on September 16, 2025, just shy of his 82nd birthday. He was born in Bellingham, Washington on September 28, 1943.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alexa Owens and Paul A. Olsen, his son Paul L. Olsen Jr., his sister Janice Smith, and niece Mindy Feathers.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Kathie (Burton) Olsen; his daughters Rachel (Matt) Moothart and Andrea (Jarek) Paszkowski; son John A. Olsen; grandchildren Liam, Erin, Josh, and Amber; bonus grandchildren Bella, Evan, Eric, and Karlee; and great-grandson Noah. He is also survived by his sister Charlene Casanova, brother John Chartier, and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

In his younger years, Paul lived an adventurous and hardworking life. He commercial fished in Alaska, served his country honorably in the Vietnam War with the 173rd Airborne, and worked as a commercial logger. He later retired after 32 dedicated years with Intalco Aluminum Company. Paul loved to fish, hunt, target shoot and restore old vehicles.

Paul was a proud lifetime member of the Mt. Baker Motorcycle Club and the Northwest Chapter of the 173rd Airborne Brigade. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 7, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of America, the Bellingham Chapter of Disabled American Veterans, the Custer Gun Club, and most recently, the Bellingham Trap & Shoot Club. He faithfully attended his Monday DAV group meetings, where he built many close and lasting friendships.

Paul gave his life to Jesus fifteen years ago and was baptized by Curtis Atnoesen, friend and former Pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church.

He was a master storyteller and a legendary jokester always ready with a teasing remark or witty comeback. Whether he was joking with family, friends, waitstaff, nurses, or hospital doctors, Paul never missed a chance to bring a smile. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and often did.

During his illness, Paul was lovingly cared for at home by his devoted family, Hospice, and Right at Home caregivers. He found comfort and spiritual companionship through visits from Pastor Kip McCormick of New Life Fellowship Church, whom he deeply respected as both a pastor and fellow veteran.

A service with military honors will be held in October at Greenacres Memorial Park, officiated by Pastor Kip McCormick.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Paul's memory be made to:

New Life Fellowship Church

810 E. Pole Rd, Lynden, WA 98264