Philip Leroy Olson

Philip Olson was born on March 26, 1950 in Garibaldi, Oregon to Otto and Velma (Spencer) Olson. Philip had 3 other siblings. The eldest was David, who passed away a few days after birth. Philip was next to be born, followed by his brothers Ken and Steven. When he was four years old, Philip’s parents moved to Mehama, Oregon. A year later, Velma passed away from cancer, leaving her husband with 3 boys. Later, Otto remarried Violet Bergette, who stepped up and became a mother to his young sons. As a child, Phil and his brothers would ride their bikes everywhere. They would pack lunch bags and ride bikes as far as Silver Creek Falls or the Little North Fork. When Philip was 17 years old he met Janet McDowell at a church event. Their parents knew each other from Bible College. Phil and Janet began dating and were married on June 11, 1971. As newlyweds they lived in Mehama and then moved to Stayton in 1972. They were blessed with a daughter, Elona. Phil was an incredibly “hands on” father and did everything from changing a diaper to feeding Elona. He was also incredibly protective of her and made sure that she was always taken care of. During this time he juggled his new family, going to school and working. Phil began working for the Oregon State Penitentiary in 1976. He was a corrections officer and hearings investigator. Throughout his career he was respected by many. Reasons for this included treating fellow employees and inmates with kindness and respect. After a long employment at the prison, Phil retired in November of 2001. Phil’s retirement was perfect timing as he became a Grandfather. He absolutely loved babysitting his Grandchildren. Phil enjoyed spending time with his family, and not long ago took them on a trip to Disneyland. The Grandchildren knew that if their parents wouldn’t allow them to have something, all they would have to do is ask Grandpa Phil!!! No matter what he was doing, he had a zest for life and enjoyed being with people. He had a larger than life personality that commanded presence. Phil loved God and enjoyed sharing his faith with others. He made God the center of his life and his family’s life. In addition to all of his work and activities, Phil had a passion for growing roses. At one point he had up to 150 plants. He also grew tomatoes and made his own sauce. Phil enjoyed going out to eat and joining his daughter, son in law and Grandchildren at the movies. During the last few years of his life, Phil faced several health challenges. Phil passed away at the age of 68 on December 19, 2018, surrounded by the love of his family. He was preceded in death by his brothers (David and Ken) and parents (Otto, Velma and Violet). He is survived by his wife, Janet; daughter, Elona (Chuck) Larimer; Grandsons, Aiden Larimer and Gavin Larimer; brother, Steven Olson, in addition to many other extended family members and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 2 at Bethel Baptist Church at 4pm. Everyone attending is encouraged to wear Hawaiian shirts and bright colors because Phil loved Hawaii and would want this time for his friends and family to celebrate his amazing life. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made in Phil’s name to Bethel Baptist Youth Group or Compassion International. Arrangements entrusted to Weddle Funeral Service.