Elmer Olson Obituary

January 6, 1929 - July 16, 2008 To know Elmer Olson was to feel known, to feel drenched in love, instantly. He radiated acceptance, with the softness of his rosy-pink cheeks and thoughtful indigo eyes. His distinctive white beard was an expression of his wisdom. Though not immune to flaws and failures, he used his life for the graceful emanation of love. His tenderness defined his strength. A man of his own making, Elmer retired by age 49 to sail the Pacific Ocean on a boat he built himself, along with his wife, Helen- his partner in every sense, the way most of us can only dream about. After ten years at sea, making friends in 21 countries, Elmer and Helen moved inland to a ranch in Florissant, Colorado. Elmer embraced people with his healing presence. He embodied the compassion and understanding that we seek, and he gave the nourishment we need to feed our souls. He was the anchor, and the wind. Elmer's influence remains in the lives of those who knew him well, and with those who met him briefly. Born in Spirit Lake, Idaho, to Louis and Grace Olson, he is survived by his wife, Helen Olson, and his children: Yvonne Witlach, Boise, Idaho; Victoria Capaci, Florissant, Colorado; Steve Olson, Warren, Oregon; Donna West, Guffey, Colorado; LeAnn Tobias, Gresham, Oregon; Frederick Edgar, Manhattan Beach, California; fourteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Elmer's remains will be interred at Four Mile Cemetery, Guffey, Colorado. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Guffey School, P.O. Box 147, Guffy, Colorado 80820. A community gathering in celebration of his life will be held at 12:00 noon, August 10, 2008, at the Slater Creek Ranch Homestead.