It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Roy Olien at the age of 78.
Survived by his wife of 55 years, Norma-Jean (Mrs.), daughter Karen (Brian) Andrew, Meaghan, daughter Sandy (Darren) Bree, Brady, sister Carol, brother-in-law Tim, many nieces and nephews, and his best friend Bill.
Roy and Norma met in 1963 and got married in 1968. Roy spent the rest of the next 55 years sharing his life with “Mrs.” doing many of the things they enjoyed together such as walks, outdoor concerts, rainbow stage, movies, or a drive to South Beach. Roy was in the sign business for 60 years. 50 of those being self-employed at “The Sign Shop”. Roy spent many years volunteering at his local community club, Kelvin C.C., coaching his daughter’s softball and ringette starting at the club level all the way to AA. He also was sitting on the board for RERA. Many of the girls who he coached still called him “Mr. O” or “coach” when they saw him in later years. Roy enjoyed camping across the country with his family, and in later years spending many weeks camping with Mrs. at Birds Hill Park. Over the years, one of his greatest joys was attending every event or activity for all 4 of his grandchildren, Andrew, Meaghan, Bree, and Brady. His face was full of love and pride for each one of them, always offering words of wisdom and encouragement. He loved his grandchildren so much and had a special nickname for each of them.
Roy was a man of integrity and made a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was without a doubt, a one-of-a-kind husband, dad, grandpa, brother, coach, and friend. We are all lucky to have had his wisdom and love guiding us through life right until the end.
A special thank you to Cancer Care and the amazing Riverview Health Center staff.
As per Roy’s wishes, no service will be held, but donations may be made in his memory to Riverview Palliative Care Unit.
4 thoughts on “Roy Olien”
Mrs O, Karen and Sandy
My thoughts are with you. Your Dad was such a kind and patient man (having 10 teenage girls form Elmwood in one locker room/ bench could try anyone’s patience)
Your Dad & Mom were so kind to me durning some pretty wonky times in my bratty early teen years. Your house was a safe place and your dad never question why there was an extra girl at the table or in the house on game days, practice days, weekends, Tuesdays – whenever really !!
Thank you Mr O (and the Mrs) much love
Randeen
So sorry to get this sad news of Roy’s passing. Roy was such a great man. We will miss him dearly. So happy we had a great visit with him and Norma in June. He was having a great day. We will cherish all our memories of Roy, and we have lots. We send our love and prayers to Norma, Sandy, Karen, and families. Also to Carol and Tim. ❤️
Much Love
Ken & Sharon Lofgren
Cousin Roy was indeed a good man, kind in every way and clearly beloved by many. Our prayers and condolences go to Norma and all her family. Roy will be missed but he left a lasting and positive mark among his family and friends. Blessings from Brian Cannon and family.
Dad, missing you always. Just thinking again today that no matter what happened or what I needed, I could call and you’d be there to help in a second. For me or Bree or Brady…and also how ridiculous it was that you stirred your coffee so many times and tapped your spoon on your cup after 😂🥰