Thomas Conrad Olsen

Tom, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

He was born on April 20, 1942, to Einar and Ruth Olsen and grew up in the Ballard area of Seattle as a proud Norwegian. He graduated from Ballard High School in 1960. He enjoyed playing, coaching and watching sports throughout his life, including playing football and running track in high school. His love of the 50s and 60s was apparent in his taste for burgers, shakes, cars, and music.

Tom attended both University of Washington and University of Puget Sound where he was the first to graduate from college in his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Karen Hite Olsen, in 1963. They were married for 58 years and had two children, Karla and Trever. He enjoyed their travels to Europe, Australia, the Caribbean, and Kauai.

He was a lifetime Husky fan attending many home and away games, including several Rose Bowls, and often tailgating with friends.

Tom worked in sales most of his adult life and really enjoyed traveling the Pacific Northwest while calling on clients. Post-retirement, he built fond relationships in the local community by being a well-loved Uber driver.

In his later years he loved to golf with his buddies and served as “The Commish” for awhile. After his wife’s passing he formed a special friendship with his Ballard classmate Jan (Hobbs) Williams.

He will be remembered for his love of the cool brisk Seattle weather, fascination with boats, and enjoying game nights with close friends and family…but most of all, his kindness and generous spirit.

Tom is survived by his daughter Karla (Tom), son Trever (Kimberly), grandchildren Krissy, Maddie, TJ (Kayla), Luke, great granddaughters Emily and Savannah, nieces Michelle, Barb, Shawne, Kim and nephew Jason.

At his request, there will be a private celebration of life. The family will be memorializing Tom and his late wife Karen with a bench in Edmonds. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a gift to Hospice Foundation of America (hospicefoundation.org) or the Swedish Hospital Foundation (swedishhospitalfoundation.org).