Richard Olsen

Richard L. Olsen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 21, 2023, in Pocatello at the age of 87.

Richard was born on October 16, 1935, to Melvin A. Olsen and Doris Lectie Sparks Olsen in Blackfoot, Idaho. He grew up in a loving family there, developing interests and skills in sports and journalism; working a multitude of jobs; and serving his family in ways that often went beyond the routine.

Dad’s older brother, Dennis, served in the Air Force, and Dad’s surprise visit to him in Biloxi, Mississippi, in his late teens was a turning point. That visit sparked the beginning of Dad developing a deep testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which became the guiding force in his life. Dad was closer in age to his younger sisters, Sharon and Glayda, and they were very close while growing up and have maintained a strong bond throughout their lives. As one of his sisters said, they were “brothers and sisters forever, best friends by choice.”

Following his brother’s footsteps, Richard joined the Air Force in 1954. Several months after enlisting, he was stationed in England, where he met Alma Tinson, who was serving a Church mission. They courted after her mission and were married on July 13, 1957. Their marriage was solemnized the next year in the London England Temple when it was completed.

Soon afterward, Richard, Alma, and a baby son left England to make their home in Idaho, living first in Blackfoot and then moving to Pocatello in 1960, where they raised their family and lived until they each passed away more than 60 years later. Naturally, Alma always felt strong tugs toward England, where her other family members remained, and England was likewise near and dear to Richard. He continued to maintain connections with family and friends after Alma passed away. And he felt a special joy as he researched the family history of Alma’s ancestors.

Richard and Alma have five children and were devoted parents. By word and example, they taught the importance of working hard, being honest, trusting God, and treating others with respect. Dad provided opportunities for employment and growth from childhood into adulthood. He provided wise spiritual counsel and would drop anything to help his children.

Richard and Alma have been blessed with 20 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, who have their own terms of endearment for their grandpa, including “Bompa” and “Bompy.” As one of them said, he was like a magnet to them. He was playful to the point of letting young granddaughters style his hair. He always sought ways to build bonds, with trips to the Playmill in West Yellowstone and whitewater rafting in Jackson, Wyoming, being favorites. Dad was also a strong support and important counselor to his many nieces and nephews.

Dad was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was called to serve as bishop of an ISU married ward in his late 20s and as branch president of the St. Anthony Place Branch in his 70s, along with many other callings in between. He touched countless lives through his faithful Church service.

Dad’s work career spanned a wide spectrum, beginning with selling Fuller Brushes. He then sold life insurance for many years and provided bookkeeping and financial planning services. He developed subdivisions and managed dozens of properties in the Pocatello area. He also managed timeshare condominiums in Lava Hot Springs and then in Ketchum for more than 30 years—into his 80s. Referring to the variety of work he did to make a living, he used to say he had “a PhD in OJT.”

Dad lived the simple gospel of Jesus Christ—to love God and love others. He loved without judgment or reserve, with a special place in his heart for people going through hard times. He was generous and self-sacrificing. He acknowledged that he often fell short, but to the end of his life he was striving to live these ideals more fully. Like Mom, he leaves a legacy of service and Christlike love.

Richard is survived by his and Alma’s children: Andrew (Linda), Cliff (Sherlyn), Lynette, Matthew (Kris), and Ryan (Wendy); his sisters Sharon and Glayda; 18 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Alma; his parents; his older brother, Dennis; and a granddaughter and grandson.

Family and friends can pay their respects at a viewing on Friday, January 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the LDS Church at 1701 Bartz Drive, Pocatello.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 28, at 2:00 p.m. at the same location. A viewing will be held prior at 1:00 p.m. The funeral can also be viewed by webcast (see Richard’s obituary page at www.wilkscolonialchapel.com).

Interment will be in the Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 S. 5th Avenue in Pocatello.

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