David R. Olsen | Eastern North Carolina Now

Born: December 1, 1936, Died: October 14, 2018

    On Sunday, October 14, 2018, David R. Olsen passed away peacefully at the age of 81 in Greenville, North Carolina.

    Dave is survived by his wife, Vivian, of 50 years, and his three children, David, Jennifer, and Erika. He was also a devoted grandfather to eight grandchildren - David J., Nolan, Amanda, Daniel, Adriana, Daniella, Talia, and Sophia. He also leaves behind his daughter-in-law, Ellen, and son-in-law, Todd.

    Dave was born on December 1, 1936, in Hoboken, New Jersey, to the late David and Margaret Olsen. After serving in the United States Army, Dave met the love of his life, Vivian, and married shortly thereafter in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey. Dave Olsen retired in 1999 after working as a Steamfitter/Pipefitter for the Metro North Railroad. Shortly after he retired, he and Vivian relocated to North Carolina, where they would build the home of their dreams together. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 16, 2018.

    Dave was passionate about the arts, spending his time painting landscapes and still art. Hundreds of canvases have been filled with his special skill of painting watercolor pictures, which will fill the homes of many of his family members. Dave also spent a great deal of time creating a beautiful landscape surrounding his home in North Carolina. He had a skill of planting, pruning, and nurturing life around him. He was also quite fond of wood-working. Countless hours were spent creating the perfect easels, shelves, and birdhouses.

    Dave's greatest passion was demonstrated in the countless hours he had spent in the kitchen. He enjoyed baking and cooking. He was often found in the kitchen baking a fresh loaf of bread or an apple cake to accompany the meal he often prepared for his family. Dave also found special joy in cooking for large events, such as birthdays and graduations. He was known for his ability to create masterpieces through his art of baking and decorating cakes. He often spent his time teaching his family his "tricks" of the trade so they could learn how to do things just as he did.

    Dave was a very warm man with a tremendous love for life. He shared his gifts and talents with those who surrounded him. His warmth, laughter, and charisma will always be cherished. His stories will live in our hearts forever. He was a special person who will be dearly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, and his entire family. May you rest in peace, Dave, Dad, Grandpa, and Papa. You were a gift to all of us.

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Olsen family.