Obituary of Donald E. Olsness

Our sweet, loving dad, husband and friend, Donald E. “ODE” Olsness passed away on August 14, 2014 in Olympia, Washington. He was adored by his family. Don was born October 30, 1927 in Spokane, Washington, where he lived the majority of his life. He attended St. Francis Xavier Grade School and John Rogers High School, graduating in June 1946. While at Rogers High School, he excelled at track in the high jump and hurdles. He also chaired many dances and gained the nickname ODE, a name people used his entire life. He served our country from October 1946 to April 1948. After the service, he joined the U.S. Post Office and was a letter carrier in Spokane until his retirement in January 1983. He was known affectionately as the Whistling Mailman. While with the Post Office, he was National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 422 President 1975-76 and State President 1977-78. One of his mail delivery routes, which included 2812 E. 19th, led him to the love of his life, Beverly. Even though she had three rambunctious, small children, he chose to marry her on July 30, 1966. This choice changed all their lives. He introduced the idea of “ketchup on everything” to his kids and unconditional love to all. He could fix anything, especially if he had duct tape, rubber bands and a leather mail strap. Don loved his family, but he also loved camping, beach walking with Bev, pool, bowling and GOLF! Wandemere, Indian Canyon, Tumwater Valley Golf Courses were some of his old stomping grounds. He marshaled at Tumwater Valley in later years. Don enjoyed beers with his buddies at the Red Barn and missed going as his illness progressed. He is survived by his wife, Beverly; his children and their spouses (spouses he loved as much as his own kids), Steve Alexander and Susan, Jeff Alexander and Rosie, Sue Alexander Johnson and Patrick; his beloved grandchildren, Brittany Johnson (Jim Costa), Scott Johnson, Karl Johnson (Kenzie Fox) and Audrie Starsy; and his extra special great-grandchildren, Aidan Starsy and London Starsy. Dad battled cancer for ten years, but never let it win. We called him the Energizer Bunny because he just kept on fighting. We feel blessed that he no longer has to fight. We are grateful to all his medical and spiritual providers over the years, especially Dr. Yi and his staff. Assured Hospice has been amazing. We would have been lost without them, especially Rick, his nurse. Now Dad can join his parents, Olai and Mary and all his old bowling, pool playing and golf buddies who have gone before him. We know he is walking the golf course in the bright sunshine carrying his own bags and whistling. Play a round of golf for him or tip back a cold one. We love you Dad! Please leave memories of Don or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.