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Dennis Olson Obituary
Dennis served in the U.S. Navy Submarine Force on the USS Guitarro, SSN665. He was also a proud member of the USSVI Tucson Base and the USS Tucson 770 Foundation.
He graduated from Wenatchee High School in Washington and earned his M.A. in Educational Technology at NAU. Dennis thoroughly enjoyed working with and empowering students at Pima Community College.
A photography enthusiast, he spent many hours photographing and cataloging the Sonoran Desert flora and fauna, as well as hiking with his beloved English Setters. Dedicated to fitness, Dennis had lifelong gym and racquetball friends of all ages and walks of life that he proudly acquired over the last 45 years. In his retirement, he renewed his enduring interest in geology. Dennis never saw a rock, Globe Mallow, butterfly, or a sunrise that he didn't love, nor a group of people he didn't want to connect and share his interests with.
He was loved by many, and his presence will forever be deeply missed. He leaves behind his bereft wife Shannon McBride Olson, daughters Kathryn (Kyle) and Emily (Carlos), three grandchildren, four siblings, and extended family.
A memorial service is pending.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to the American Cancer Society.
Be with God.
Memories and Condolences
for Dennis Olson
Sam McGlone
November 4, 2025
Shannon..
Just heard about your Dennis. Sending many blessings to you and your family.
Vivian Ries
November 2, 2025
Oh Shannon, I am so very sorry for your loss! I send you my sincerest sympathy.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. May God bless you and your family.
Luis Yagual
October 16, 2025
For my good friend and his wife, Shannon.
During a night trip by bus from El Paso to Tucson, a great human being was waiting for me early in the morning at the bus station so we could head together to one of the many field trips we would later share.
A funny, easygoing, and passionate geologist - but above all, a wonderful husband, friend, and human being - Dennis Olson was surrounded by a beautiful family and two amazing puppies.
Now you are an angel watching over us every day and at every hour. You have left behind a meaningful legacy that will always be remembered, and we will continue to live by the wonderful lessons you taught us.
Rest in peace, Guerrero.
Dan O´ Donnell
October 6, 2025
I started playing Racquetball at the same time Dennis did back in 1982 with the same group of guys. I knew him as a great man who loved life, his friends, and his family. He was quite well versed on a lot of subjects. His legacy is imprinted on my mind on an ongoing basis.
S
October 1, 2025
More than all the stars in the sky. Always.
Darrell Griffin
September 30, 2025
Dennis, I was honored to have known you. I truly enjoyed your company at SUBVETS meetings and the 2024 and 2025 Western Region conventions. I had a great deal of respect for you, and respect from me doesn't come easy. Fair winds as you cross the bar; I look forward to seeing you again.
Ann Christensen
September 28, 2025
Dennis, it is such a privilege for me to call you and Shannon my friends. Thank you for having blessed our community with your intellect, kindness, and sense of humor. Your bright light will continue to shine in the hearts of all those whose lives you touched. You lived a good life, now rest in peace, dear one.
Leslie Weng
September 27, 2025
My thoughts are with Shannon and her family. Dennis lived well and fought his disease hard and dignity. He has earned his rest. So Dennis, ring the bell!
Michael Metzner
September 27, 2025
Although I didn´t know him personally, I knew his boat and the fact that he was a submariner made him my brother.
Fair winds and following seas.......
My condolences to his family and friends.
Chaplain Mark Stevens, USSVI
September 25, 2025
Loved brother Dennis, my submarine brother. Praying for Shannon. God loves you lady. God bless your family!
Gregory A Lux
September 25, 2025
I met Dennis through several reunions of the crew of USS Guitarro. We shared many stories of life on the boat, and life after the Navy. I'm so glad that he joined USSVI, where he was able to meet other brothers of the 'phin. Rest your oar, shipmate. We have the watch.
Shannon, Linda and I are so sorry for your loss.
Michael Tulino
September 25, 2025
My sympathies to the family, Shannon in particular. Stay strong and remember.
George Andrews
September 25, 2025
Big smile and a handshake every time we met. I enjoyed the time and stories we shared while together at USSVI activities. May you rest in peace my friend.
KATHLEEN HOLMES
September 25, 2025
Thinking of Shannon and family...I am so very sorry for your loss. May Dennis RIP.
Mark l Pidcoe
September 25, 2025
Though we did not serve at the same time, Fair Winds and Following Seas to a great shipmate. We have the watch!
Debbie Tofte
September 24, 2025
You will be forever missed big brother. Rest peacefully.
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