Nils Robert Olson
May 10, 1928 - September 23, 2016
Obituary
Nils “Bob” Robert Olson, was born in Goldfield, NV, the youngest son of Olof and Hilda Olson. Moving to Seattle in 1929 with his family, Bob grew up in Ballard graduating from Ballard High School in 1946. After high school he joined the army and was stationed in Japan. Bob graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in accounting. On October 28, 1955 Bob married Lorraine Sylvia Olson and were married for almost 56 years when Lorraine passed away. They had two daughters, Sylvia and Susan.
As a CPA, Bob spent the majority of his career as the treasurer of Nordby Supply Company, a marine supply business at Fisherman’s Terminal. While at Nordby, he tirelessly mandated for fishing vessels to carry enough survival suits on board for all crew members which was not common in the 1970s. Nordby was a perfect career for Bob, as he loved being a CPA in a corporation that was geared towards fishing. If Bob wasn’t working, he was out steelheading or salmon fishing. After retiring from Nordby, Bob bought a tax firm and spent 10 years helping people with their taxes.
Besides fishing, Bob enjoyed traveling, golfing, and working on their rental homes. He was also active in his church serving as treasurer and auditor for a number of years. Being the child of Swedish immigrants, Bob was fiercely proud of his Swedish heritage and the four Swedish food groups: pickled herring, lutefisk, salmon, and dessert.
Bob is survived by his daughters, Sylvia (Jeff) Lorraine and Susan (Steve) Henning, and his grandchildren Michael and Sarah Henning.
Remembrances may be given to Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church or to the Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial PO Box 17356 Seattle, WA 98107. The annual memorial service at the Fishermen’s Memorial will be on May 7th, 2017.
Thinking of Sylvia and Susan, and remembering how kind their dad was to me on my visit to Seattle.
Susan, the greatest tribute to your father has been through your years of constant love and support throughout his illness. I’m sorry for your loss but know he’s up there with your Mom entertaining everyone with all of his stories:)