Rodney H. Olsen
October 26, 1929 - October 16, 2008
On the Road…
Rod passed away peacefully on October 16, 2008 after a short illness.
He was born October 26, 1929 in St. Paul, MN to Arthur and Laura Olsen. He married Arla Swenson October 10, 1952 and was an amazing husband. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He worked for the Ford Motor Co. for 34 years. He offered his time to the Soup Kitchen, serving food or washing dishes. Rod was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, golf and tennis. He found pleasure in a good daily walk, reading and traveling. He was a devoted father who was actively involved with his family. He passed on to his children his love for animals, his passion for music and the arts, and the value of good ethics. He taught us to live well: to respect the earth, care for our fellow man and appreciate what we have.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years; his children Cindy, Kathy, Jenny (George) Garcia, Edie (Dave) Schoepp, Vince (Heather), Ruth; grandchildren Juliet, Justin, Jasmine, Trent, Chandler, Ezri; four sisters; three brothers; and stepfather Nick Goerger.
Preceded in death by his son, Richard and his parents.
Friends may call upon the family at a wake on Sunday, October 19th from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 20th at 12:00 PM at St. Ann Catholic Church, 450 East 2100 South, Salt Lake City. Inurnment to follow at Elysian Burial Gardens, 1075 East 4580 South.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rod’s name to Tracy Aviary or the St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen.
In Loving Memory
Cindy (and family), we are all so sorry to hear about your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
John Palmatier
Salt Lake City, UT
Arla and Family, I was so sad to hear Rod was sick and then passed away. The obituary was such a loving tribute to him. I know you will all miss him. I'll see you at the Mass. Love, Betsy Hurty and Mickey
Betsy Hurty
Salt Lake City, UT
Arla and Family, Our hearts went out to all of you when we heard about Rod passing away. He is a wonderful person and a great family man. We know the pain of loosing such a vital family member and want you to know we care and offer our support, if you need it.
Chuck, Mike, Terry and Stapley and Randy and Kathy Harrison
Salt Lake City, Ut
Arla, I am so sorry about Rod. Everytime I hit a golf ball I will think of him. My prayers are with you and your family and would do anything I could to make this time a little easier.
Debbie Kay
Sandy, Ut
Arla, I am so sorry to learn that Rod is gone. He had a horrible disease and must have had so much pain. He was a dear sweet man and I miss him. He made my move and living here better and did so much for all of us. My heart and thoughts are with you at this time. Jinnah
jinnah Kelson
salt lake city, ut
Rod was very kind to my parents Verl and Jessie Teeples, who were condo neighbors to the Olsens for many years. He always treated me with this same kindness, which he has also given to our daughter and grand daughter. Our sincere condolence. Jackie and Monte
Jackie Bona
salt Lake, Ut
I am so sorry to hear of Rods passing. I have worked with him for many years on your insurance and he has always been such a nice and pleasant man to work with. He always took time to sit and visit with me. I will truly miss his visits.
Mindy Downey
SLC, Ut