Dear Classes of 1963, 1968, 1973 & 1975:

This is a Deacon Alert to inform you of the passing of Patrick T. Olsen ('73) on Thursday, Feb. 13th.

Patrick was a member of the Class of 1973, and the brother of Michael Olsen ('68), Anthony Olsen ('75), and the late Randi (Olsen) Olafson ('63) and Theresa Olsen.

Obituary:

Patrick Thomas “Oly” Olsen unexpectedly passed away on February 13, 2025, at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Patrick was born on December 21, 1954, at St. John’s Hospital in Fargo to Alf and Charlotte “Chucky” Olsen. He was educated in the Catholic school system, graduating from Shanley High School in 1973. After high school, he attended NDSCS in Wahpeton, and later graduated from Moorhead State University in 1979. He began his professional career at Ford Motor Credit, before starting his contract cleaning business which he owned for over 20 years. In 2004, he earned his MBA from the University of Mary. This opened the door to his next career, where he worked in facility management & taught business and entrepreneurship for multiple colleges & universities.

In 1978, Patrick met the love of his life, Paula Lee. They married in 1982, raising their two daughters, Jennifer and Lindsay in Fargo. He enjoyed watching and supporting the girls in their numerous school activities.

Patrick was a man of many talents and hobbies. You could usually find him in a hunting field, making his famous spaghetti, or on the water canoeing through the wilderness. He was always accompanied by his friends & family during these adventures, and he cherished those memories all his life. He was a lifelong avid reader, evidenced by his expansive book collection. His backyard oasis was his favorite hangout, where he would read a book & listen to music. His favorite activity was spending time with his five grandchildren and attending their activities.

Patrick is survived by his wife, Paula; daughters Jennifer (Anthony) Reinhardt of Gilbert, AZ and Lindsay (Gregory) Peterson of Fargo; grandchildren Lily, Ella, and Walker Reinhardt and Makenna and Camden Peterson. He is also survived by his brothers, Michael (Martha) Olsen of Fargo, and Anthony (Marilyn) of Berthoud, CO; brother-in-law Fred Olafson of Irmo, SC; and sister-in-laws Judie Lee and Bonnie Jacques both of Olympia WA and Janna (Jon) Achter of Fargo, and multiple nieces & nephews that he loved and cherished.

He was preceded in death by his parents; maternal & paternal grandparents; sisters Randi Olafson & Theresa Olsen, and brothers-in-law Bob Lee and Doug Jacques.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE: 10 AM Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center in Fargo – with a gathering one hour prior

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