John Reidar Olsen

John Reidar Olsen, age 76, passed away on January 22, 2024, in Jarrettsville, Maryland. Born in Syracuse, New York, he was the beloved son of Ingwald George and Lila (Brown) Olsen. John was the loving husband of Ann Gail Olsen.

A devoted family man all of his life, more than anything else, John loved to spend time with his wife, children, seven grandchildren and great grandson.  So many of his best memories were family vacations in Rangeley Maine playing pinochle with the family.  He also loved to play golf and spend time outdoors fishing and camping.

A lifetime member of the Boy Scouts, John served as a Scoutmaster for over 25 years with Troop 809 in Jarrettsville.  In 1990, in recognition for his service in scouting, John received the Silver Beaver award, the highest award an adult scouter can receive. His example and dedication to the ideals of scouting strongly impacted the lives of many young men in the Harford District.

Professionally John graduated from the University of Buffalo with a degree in civil engineering.  He spent nearly his entire career in construction as a dedicated 40 year plus member of the Whiting-Turner Construction company.  Starting as a project manager in 1970 and retiring as a Vice President in 2010.  Some of his major projects included The original IBM building on Pratt Street in Baltimore, the IBM campus in Kinston, NY and the Progressive Casualty Insurance Headquarters in Clevland, OH.

Always generous with his time and talents, John spent countless hours lending his experience and expertise by serving on the building and facilities committees at his church, St. Margaret in Bel Air and at The John Carroll School where all four of his children, both his daughters-in-law and five of his grandchildren graduated.  

Ultimately, John lived a life of service, to God, to his family and to his community.  

He is survived by his wife, Gail Olsen, his son Brian (Bethany) Olsen, daughters Karin Olsen and Megan Olsen, Daughter-in-law Ashley Olsen and a cherished legacy of grandchildren: Claire Olsen, Shannon Olsen, William Olsen, Iain Olsen, Caleb Olsen, Mary Olsen, and Emma Olsen. He is also survived by a great-grandchild, John Olsen.

John was preceded in death by his son, Eric Olsen, and his sister, Betty Campany. He is also remembered by twin brother James Olsen, and sister Helen Steinhoff.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either: St. Margaret Parish in Bel Air, MD or to Boy Scout Troop 811 chartered at St. Mary’s of the Assumption in Pylesville, MD.

There will be a wake service at 7:00 pm