Robert John “Bob” Olsen, 82, of Russell, Kansas, died on Friday, May 17, 2019, at the Russell Regional Hospital.
Bob was born on April 29, 1937, in Jersey City, New Jersey, the son of John D. and Dorothy (Butler) Olsen. He grew up in Jersey City and attended local schools in Jersey City. He joined the United States Air Force and served his country from 1955 to 1964. During this time he met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Ula Faye Keyes on June 01, 1961, in Russell, Kansas. From this union Bob and Ula were blessed with 3 daughters Michelle, Mary and Molly. Bob worked for many years as a measurement technician for Koch Industries. He was a member of the Methodist Church, the American Legion Post # 99 and the Elks Lodge all in Russell, Kansas. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family. Most of all he enjoyed aggravating and teasing his daughters and grandchildren.
Surviving family include his wife Ula of the home, daughters Michelle Harrison of McCook, Nebraska and Molly Friebus (Drew) of Russell, Kansas; grandchildren Olivia, Jordan and Kalena (Donnie) Coleman and great grandchildren Roman, Dominick, Reed, Aniya and Collin and son in-law Jay Keeler of Russell, Kansas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Mary Keeler, brother John Olsen and Nephew John Olsen.
A gathering service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. on Wednesday evening, May 22, 2019, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas, with family present to greet guests. Open visitation to sign the register book will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. all day Wednesday. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at the Fairport Cemetery in Fairport, Kansas. Cremation has been selected by the family. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.