With heavy hearts we announce Orval (Ole) Olson’s recent passing in White Rock BC at the age of 93.  He was a beloved spouse and father, a doting grandfather, a gentle great-grandfather, and a cherished son and brother.  Grateful for his 93 years, he was ambitious for more - joking about “making it to 100” like actors Bob Hope and Dick van Dyke.  He left us surrounded by family, knowing he’d been deeply loved and richly blessed.

Orval’s life was marked by his zest for adventure, great energy, strong will, and a persistence that would not let obstacles stand in his way once he had an idea.  As an example, in the early ’60s he drove the family to Mexico City to explore Mexico’s unfamiliar culture and Aztec past.  As dusk approached while visiting the Pyramid of the Sun, he was still climbing its steep steps with his 2-year old, while his wife watched anxiously from below with their new baby.  His determination, physical strength, deep convictions, and sharp intellect, were treasured, yet sometimes challenging, qualities he passed down to his children. 

Married for almost 66 years to his beloved wife Emily, they created a rich life together, sharing a love of family, travel, and an interest in history and the world.  Orval loved road trips, customizing a van for family camping before this was fashionable.  Summer holidays were spent exploring national parks in the western US, stopping at every historical site, marvelling at the stunning landscapes, and visiting attractions.  In later years, he and Emily traveled to Hawaii, Poland, Mexico, and England, though he regretted never being able to visit his family’s ancestral lands in Norway or Scotland.  

Orval, along with sister Marlene, was born in small-town Saskatchewan to Mabel and Anders.  He was a gifted student, who never lost his appetite for reading and learning.  Growing up on the prairies fostered his lifelong love of nature, and his passion for observing and studying birds and animals.  Attending McGill University on a scholarship, he studied nuclear physics and electrical engineering and grew to love big-city Montreal.  During university years, he also worked as a surveyor notably demarking Canada’s BC-USA international boundary.  After marrying, work drew Orval to BC.  There, as a professional engineer, he had a long career with BC Hydro devoting substantial energy and time to successfully developing early computing resources and managing Hydro’s gas division activities.  Arriving in BC, the family initially rented a house on the beach which provided ample access to the ocean and its wonders.  Fittingly, his last year was back in White Rock enjoying the beach views. 

A keen and versatile athlete, Orval played basketball and curling at university.  He had a passion for sports.  He never missed a game for his son’s wide-ranging athletic pursuits, including university football, and was always in the stands for his local grandchildren’s games.  After retiring he volunteered over 25 years to provincial and community youth sports.  He contributed to baseball and softball with the Babe Ruth League, serving as the Lower Mainland /Fraser Valley District Commissioner for 25 years, and as a BC Provincial Assistant Commissioner for over a decade.  The League named him Commissioner of the Year four times, and awarded him memberships in the Baseball BC, and BC Babe Ruth Halls of Fame.  He also contributed to youth footfall, served as Secretary-Treasurer for Baseball Coaches of BC, and was Treasurer of BC Youth Select Soccer.  The City of Surrey recognized Ole with a Lifetime Achievement Award noting his "work ethic, vision, attention to detail and high moral standards in his volunteer support pursuits were an inspiration to all who grew to know him and respect him".  

Orval’s passing leaves behind wife Emily, children (Chris, Dana, Rene, Lara, Norine, Shawn, and Michael - deceased) and their spouses, along with eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and a large extended family.  He is remembered for his inquisitive mind, his deep interest in history and current affairs, strongly held Catholic faith, love of books, and vigorous discussion on almost any topic.  He had a knack for humorous expression (rubbish or hogwash!) and loved classic slapstick comedies and old films.  Orval’s life was richly and fully lived – he will be deeply missed. 

Orval will be celebrated on June 18 in Surrey.  Those who knew him are invited to attend. 

Please contact the Funeral Home via email wecare@arbutusfuneralservice.com to register for the service.  The family thanks those who’ve expressed condolences. 

We request no flowers or donations, but if wishing to donate please consider a favoured cause: The George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary.  Click HERE to be directed to the website.