ForeverMissed
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His Life
December 28, 2015

Floyd was born on November 23, 1929 to Floyd Olsen Sr. and Elizabeth Olsen (Sweinhart) in Easton, Pennsylvania.

Marked by the era of the Great Depression and Prohibition, Floyd’s childhood was marked with colorful memories which he would recall time and time again throughout his life. Affectionately referred to as  “Mickey” and “Weezer” by his family, he often recalled fond memories of his close relationship with grandmother, his boston bull and his shetland pony that nipped, just to name a few.

At the young age of 19, Floyd joined the Navy. He served on the Chancellor (destroyer) and the Princeton (carrier). He served during the Korean War working within radar and communications. After his deployment he returned to what is currently known as Naval Base Kitsap. Shortly after, he would be forever changed by an encounter with a little Polish girl from Tacoma.

In 1951, Floyd was set up on a blind date with his future wife, Lois Zajac. While their first encounter was less than perfect (according to Lois), it would quickly take a turn and they would marry approximately a year later on October 25, 1952.

After they married, Floyd went to work for Boeing where he would work for  37 years. He was a pioneer in the development of Boeing’s computer systems and other advanced technology used today. During this time, his young family grew leaps and bounds - 10 children to be exact.

Next to the dedication and love for his wife, his family was his everything. He raised his children by leading by example.

Sending all of his children to Holy Rosary School, Floyd was dedicated to his community and church. He was a member of the Men’s Club, volunteered at many church and school events, and was the Scout Master of Troop 14. After the earth quake of 1966, he was also instrumental in designing and installing the new cross on Holy Rosary Church after the old one fell off the church.

While these are just a few of Floyd’s accomplishments in life, his deepest footprint lies in his more subtle actions.

Faith. Dad was devoted to his church and to his faith. He attended church every Sunday and holiday and more importantly, his faith life could be observed through the way he lived and loved.

Devotion. Our dad was fiercely devoted to our mom. His love for her was unconditional and deep. As husband and wife, they set an unparalleled example of what marriage means. Although he loved his children with all his heart, his wife always came first and for that we are grateful for his example of profound faithfulness.

Acceptance. Dad had the wing span greater than any eagle. Anyone he met was met with love and acceptance - always - family or not. If you needed a little help - he was there. Always willing to take one more under his wing if needed.

He also accepted each of his children as individuals.  Raising nine individual personalities is no small task.  Accepting nine different life paths can be challenging, but he never wavered in his love.

Joyfulness. Our dad was a great dancer. Not only literally, but metaphorically. He loved life. Summers were spent fishing, camping, and hiking. Holidays were joyous and exciting. Gatherings were full of happiness, humor, and love. He danced to the music of life with grace, gratitude, and elegance.

Pride. Dad was a humble man, until it came to his family. On many family occasions, in the midst of the chaos, you would find him quietly sitting and observing with a smile. He never passed the opportunity to tell the story of his dune buggy and his first place prize in the Tokeland 4th of July parade. Not because he won the prize - but because on a deeper level it represented the love and pride he had for his family. Many times he said “I did all this” as he looked at the crowd - which in fact were all his.

Our dad taught us so many things in life. For this we are grateful. He will be deeply missed, but we know that this is just a pause in time and we will see him again. Until then Pops, we know you are looking over us and will greet us with the same open arms and beautiful smile we miss so dearly. We love you.