Owen Miller Olsen

Owen Miller Olsen, a longtime resident of Bellingham, WA, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the age of 96. Born in Denmark, Owen moved to England as a child during the war and later to Canada, where he attended the University of British Columbia. There, he met the love of his life, Teddy, through the youth group at Christ Church Cathedral in Vancouver. Owen was the only one with a car and since Teddy lived the farthest away, he was lucky to spend a little extra time with her. They married on July 3, 1954, and shared 53 wonderful years together until her passing in 2007.

After settling in Bellingham, Owen built a long and respected career as one of Washington’s longest-serving CPAs. He loved travel and adventure, from spending time among Māori communities in New Zealand to visiting China in his late 80s. Above all, he cherished his family, his children Gregory M. Olsen of Bellingham and Valerie Jennings of Camano Island; grandchildren Ryan Abbott (Grace) and Megan Vaithianathan (Vin); and his great-grandson, Theodore (“Teddy”).

Owen was the kind of grandpa who showed his love through laughter. Often sneaking tater tots from his grandkids’ casserole and asking with a grin, “Why do I tease you?” only to hear the reply, “Because you love us.”

Owen and Teddy were longtime members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Bellingham. A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 14th at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with a reception following. Owen will be laid to rest at Bayview Cemetery beside his beloved Teddy during a private family service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul’s Organ Maintenance Trust or the Whatcom Community Foundation.

Owen will be remembered for his humor, his boundless curiosity, and his unwavering love for his family. A life well-traveled and well-loved.