Robert Olson, Boots

Robert "Boots" Olson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and true friend to many, passed away on August 11, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born on January 24, 1944, in Tillamook, Oregon. Bob lived a life rich with adventure, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and faith. The son of Earl and Marjorie Olson, Bob grew up in Tillamook where he attended high school, developing a fondness for shop classes and the camaraderie of friends. From an early age, he learned the value of a strong work ethic while working alongside his father, Pete, in the family seafood business. Many cherished memories were built on the Kilchis River, on the Tillamook Bay, and Hoods Canal, where he learned the skills of gill netting, clamming, and oyster farming with his siblings. Bob served his country with honor in the US Navy from 1962 to 1966, working in the engine and boiler room on supply ships during the Vietnam War. His experiences during this time sparked a lifelong interest in the Bible and the deeper questions of life. On March 28, 1965, Bob married the love of his life, Barbara, whom he met on a blind date while stationed in California. Their 61 and a half years of marriage were a testament to their mutual respect, humor, and shared faith. Together, they raised children: Bo and his wife Sandie, Aaron (Spud) and his wife Michelle, Marty (Pine) and his wife Debbie, and their daughter Wendy Dawn, who passed some years ago. They are also thankful to have a special daughter, Lisa, and her husband Dave Battrick in their lives. Bob's love for his family extended to his 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. His grandchildren include Jazmine & her husband Aaron Gish and their daughter Remington Joshua & his wife Maria Olson, Taylor & her husband David Rouse and their daughter Max, Kaisa & Brannon Neale, Lacey Olson, Shelby Olson, Emerald & her husband Dustin Howard and their daughters Blakley and Keely Mae, Morgan & her husband Colton Galmukoff and their daughters Cordelia and Jillian, Holly & her husband Dylan Morgenthaler, Bekken Olson, Kenston Battrick, and Cheyenne & her husband Bruce Denning and their daughters Amelia and Daisy. Also many nieces and nephews. Bob was also survived by his siblings, Lorna & her husband Russel Sims, Lorraine Ripley, Mike & his wife Kathy Olson, and Rick & his wife Julie Olson. His brother Matthew and sister Laura Lie as well as Linda Mustard his sister proceeded him in death. A man of many talents, Bob worked in various vocations throughout his life. From running commercial shrimp boats and salmon trolling, to building Olson Oyster Company, raising over 100 head of sheep on the Miami River to working in the high mountains of eastern Oregon. He always found joy in his work. He passed that work ethic on to his 3 boys as he worked with them closely. His commitment to his community was evident in his volunteer work with the Regional Building Committee. He helped build Kingdom Halls across the Oregon, Washington and Idaho. He also served as an elder in congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses since the mid-1970s. Truthfully, he was the same man Friday night as on Sunday morning. He set a fine example for his children, always putting spiritual interests first in his life. Bob's hobbies included gardening, hunting trips with his legendary 30.40 craig rifle, building old cars, and distilling. His famous "Bootsmoke," is well-known among his friends throughout the Pacific Northwest. Despite his many interests, Bob's greatest joy was his family. That was always evident in how he treated his wife, Barbara. It is a true love of the ages. He delighted in seeing their kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren thrive spiritually and was happiest when surrounded by them at his smoky fire pit, sharing stories and laughter. A memorial service to celebrate Bob's life will be held on September 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, located at 1760 7th Street, Astoria, Oregon 97103. There will be a reception following the service. The family wants to extend heartfelt gratitude to his Hospice Team for their kindness and care during his final days. His legacy of love, laughter, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. We will see you soon Boots! Ps. 37:3-5 & 28-29