Thomas "Tom" Edward Olsen

Thomas “Tom” Edward Olsen, age 77, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, with his wife and daughters by his side.

Born on May 10, 1948, in Bellingham, Washington to Mary Vanderhage and Oswald Olsen, Tom was a lifelong resident of Whatcom County, where he grew up surrounded by the community he cherished.

A 1966 graduate of Bellingham High School, Tom went on to serve proudly in the United States Army. He later married the love of his life, Marty (Zender) Olsen, and together they shared 55 wonderful years, creating a lifetime of memories and raising two daughters.

Family was at the heart of everything Tom did. He called his mother every single day, and his brother and sister were not just family, they were his closest friends. The deep bond they shared shaped his loyalty, compassion, and the way he loved others.

Tom spent many years working at Georgia Pacific, where he cherished the work and the friendships he formed. He was known for his humor, camaraderie, and the countless memories created with coworkers through practical jokes and shared laughter. He was also a proud member of the Whatcom 4-Wheelers and Whatcom County Search and Rescue with many people whom became lifelong friends.

Tom touched the lives of everyone he met. He loved making people happy through his cooking, his humor, and his generous spirit. He also loved treasure-hunting at thrift stores, experimenting in the kitchen, and especially spending time with family at his and his wife’s property on the Skagit River. Camping was his idea of the perfect vacation, and he treasured every moment spent outdoors with those he loved.

Tom was preceded in death and now reunited with his mother, Mary Vanderhage; his brother, Larry Olsen; and his sister and brother-in-law, Bonnie and Jeff Smith.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Marty; daughters, Kristin Nguyen (Linh) and Kori Olsen (Aric Smathers); and his adored grandchildren, Kohl, Jayden, Talia, and Kaylin.

Tom’s quiet strength, warm humor, and deep love for life will be forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Westford Funeral Home, 1301 Broadway, Bellingham, WA. A reception will follow at American Legion Post 7, 1688 W. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham, WA.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The American Legion Post 7, 1688 W. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham, WA 98225.