Olaf John Carlsen
It is with great sadness and much love that we say goodbye to Olaf Carlsen (OJ) who passed away on June 25, 2024. He was predeceased by his parents, Sverre and Annie Carlsen, sister Verna Cain, and father in law George Eccleston. He leaves many cherished memories with his loving wife of 54 years, Christina, children: Steve (Heather), Geoff (Anna), and Sarah (Chad), and grandchildren: Erik, Griffin, Sydney, Rebecca, Samantha, Cole, Bradley, Alex, Logan, and Ivy, sisters Margaret and Deb (Ken), brother Martin, mother-in-law Anna Mae, sisters-in-law Cindy (Ken), Ellen (Don), brother-in-law Scott (Candice), many nieces, nephews, and good friends.
Olaf was born in Edmonton and grew up in Rochester, AB. Being a steamfitter/pipefitter took him many places including Edmonton (Local 488), Trail, BC (Cominco), and Logan Lake, BC (Highland Valley Copper), before retiring in Edmonton.
Olaf enjoyed touring on his Goldwing with Christina and the GWRRA, travelling, and visiting family. He was a devoted father who coached soccer, was a scout leader, and passed on his love of the outdoors. He was a proud Grandfather who will be remembered for the way he lit up from his grandchildren’s achievements. OJ was patient, friendly, helpful, and always had a story or joke to share. He was a pro with home renos, skilled at woodworking, enjoyed playing card games, and playing the guitar.
Olaf survived prostate cancer, lived with asbestosis, and bravely fought Lewy body dementia. In Lieu of flowers, honour Olaf by taking time to call a friend, or donations may be made to Villa Caritas Unit 2B.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date. Olaf will remain at Peaceful Pines Cemetery, Rochester, AB.
So sad…love you Chris…such a kind sole,very devoted family man with a quiet nature and beautiful smile…will stay in our hearts forever…talk soon ❤️❤️Barb
Olaf was truly a gentle soul. Terry and I have treasured our friendship with him, Christina and family. Even though we didn’t have as much physical contact with him and the rest of the family, thinking back, it has been close to fifty years since we first met. Even though we don’t spend much time together, we often think of our visits and are thankful.
My memory of Olaf is from 60 years ago when I was in grade 5 in Rochester school and Olaf was a member of the high school sports teams. I admired his skills and accomplishments and hoped that I would one day be as good as he was. I took a few minutes to visit him and tell him this at a Rochester School Reunion about 50 years later. I was glad that I had the opportunity to do so. He had an influence on my life. I am saddened to hear of Ola’s passing