Remembering Robert J. Olsen
Robert J. Olsen
1928-2019
With great sadness we announce the passing of a Robert J. Olsen on March 13th. Bob was a terrific business leader, mentor, husband and father. Bob and Reynold Thielen took the reins of the firm in 1957 and led it through a period of tremendous growth. The stories of long barnstorming trips across the Midwest are legendary.
While Bob retired August 31, 1995, his influence goes beyond the name on the wall. Bob was always telling jokes (Sven and Ole were favorites) and he originated the joke section of this newsletter.
Bob enjoyed being a CPA and took great pleasure in connecting with clients and acquaintances, including calling them on their birthdays or to share current news of the day. He always had time for everyone, often telling stories of chance encounters turning into long-standing client relationships.
In addition to decades of service building the telecommunications core of Olsen Thielen, Bob was a leader in developing services to doctors and medical clinics which led to his opening an office in the west suburbs to serve our clients located around Abbott, Fairview, Methodist and Ridgeview hospitals. He was also instrumental in supporting dozens of family-owned businesses in the garbage hauling community. Clients loved Bob and continue to ask about him to this day when we get together for annual meetings.
Bob, while we will miss you, thank you for leaving us with the wonderful memories.