Obituary: Olsness, Donald E.
Age 86
He was adored by his family.
Don was born October 30, 1927 in Spokane, WA.
He attended John Rogers High School, graduating in June 1946.
At Rogers, he excelled at track and gained his nickname, ODE.
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.
His mail delivery route led him to the love of his life, Beverly.
Even with three small kids he chose to marry Bev on July 30, 1966.
This choice changed all our lives.
Don loved his family, but he also loved camping, beach walking with Bev, pool, bowling and GOLF!
Don enjoyed beers with his buddies at the Red Barn and missed going as his illness progressed.
He is survived by Beverly; his kids and their spouses (spouses he considered his kids), Steve Alexander and Susan, Jeff Alexander and Rosie, Sue Alexander Johnson and Patrick; his beloved grandkids, Brittany Johnson (Jim Costa), Scott Johnson, Karl Johnson (Kenzie Fox) and Audrie Starsy; his extra special great-grandkids, Aidan Starsy and London Starsy.
Dad battled cancer for ten years, but never let it win.
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.
We know Dad is walking a golf course in the bright sunshine carrying his own bags and whistling.
The family plans a gathering at a future date.
If you would like to join us contact Sue at moonshell361@comcast.net.
We love you Dad!
Read the extended obituary or leave memories at www.FuneralAlternatives.org.