Robert A. Olson (known to many as Rob, Bob, Ole, Grandpa, or Great Grandpa) passed away in peace at his home, surrounded by family and loved ones, on Sunday, January 06, 2013. Robert was the fifth of five brothers from west Berkeley. Though a late bloomer in education, he became a graduate of Berkeley High, SF State and UC Berkeley. He served as a naval officer during World War II in the Pacific Campaign.
He then spent a long and fruitful career with the Richmond Unified School District as a P.E. teacher, counselor, boys dean, vice principal and principal at many junior and senior high schools until his retirement in 1980. He was very popular with his students (perhaps with the exception of a few of those who received swats).
After retirement, he and his teaching buddies continued the house-painting and general handyman business they had begun years before during school summer vacations. He was also a skilled carpenter and wood craftsman, building several additions to his El Cerrito residence and a summer cabin in Lake County. In addition, he and his lovely wife Annabell travelled by air, train and ship, developing a worldwide horde of traveling acquaintances, partners and tour guides.
Throughout his life Bob was an avid sports fan, following the Bears, the Giants, the As and the Raiders. He also played golf, volleyball, softball, and many other recreational sports throughout his long life. He was also active in SIRS and the Richmond Association of School Administrators.
Robert will now joyfully rejoin his wife Annabell, daughter Patti (Bartlett), and countless other family members and friends in peaceful surroundings. He is survived by his sons David (Jackie) of El Cerrito and Don (Susan) of Milwaukee, WI, and his son-in-law Steve Bartlett of Richmond, plus their extended families, including six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his long-term aide Greg Byers, whose support and assistance will be forever appreciated by Robert’s family. All of us will miss him terribly.
A memorial service for Robert will be held at Sunset View Cemetery at Fairmount and Colusa in El Cerrito on Thurs, Jan 10th at 11 AM, followed by a gathering for sharing memories, stories, and his best jokes. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of these groups: The West Contra Costa Retired Educators Scholarship Fund and The WCCUSD Ed Fund.