Obituary of Eugene T. Dolan

Gene, age 89, passed away July 22, 2019 in Olympia, Washington, his home of 60 years.  He was born July 8, 1930 to Jack E. and Alma Dolan in Tumwater, Washington, where he lived until 1959.

Gene graduated from Olympia High School in the Class of 1948.  He earned a real estate license, securities license, and life insurance license.

He served in the U.S. Navy from September 22, 1948 to September 21, 1955, and was stationed in San Diego, California.  Gene married Janet A. Flagg on August 17, 1951 in Olympia.

Professionally, Gene worked for Pacific Power & Light from 1949 to 1953, and for Thurston County Federal Savings & Loan (which became Heritage Federal Savings & Loan) for 27 years.

An avid spectator of all sports, he also played church league slo-pitch, coached Little League for five years, and played golf.  He also enjoyed reading.

Gene was very detail-oriented, civic-minded, and was interested in helping others and the community. He was a charter member of the North Thurston Kiwanis, where he served as director and president (1970-1971) and had perfect attendance for 53 years.  He was involved in the Lacey Area Chamber of Commerce, serving as President in 1968, Chairman of the Board, Director, and Executive Director (five years).  He was a founder of the Tanglewilde Recreation Center, and served on the board for 12 years, including as president and treasurer. He was involved with the North Thurston Education Foundation on anything revolving around children, youth, and scholarships.  He also was instrumental in founding and being actively involved in many civic organizations too numerous to list.

He was very much loved and respected by his family and friends.

Gene is survived by his wife Janet of Olympia; sons, Mike of Puyallup and Steve of Olympia; daughter, Linda Ackelson (husband, Larry) of Hauser, Idaho; five grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Alma Dolan; and half-sister, Louise Aurillo.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 1, 2019, 1:00 p.m. at South Sound Manor, 455 North Street SE, Tumwater, WA 98501. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Kiwanis Foundation, to the attention of Treasurer Dick Rust, PO Box 5607, Lacey, WA 98509.