Son of Rev. Norman R. Olsen and Mabel R. Olsen, Brian was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts and grew up in Waltham. Brian graduated from Northfield Mount Hermon and went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts from his beloved Colby College in Waterville, Maine in 1957.
In 1959, he married Beverly Sisk of Suffield, Connecticut, with whom he had four children. Brian served as a pilot in the United States Air Force and then at American Airlines in “the best job in the world” until he retired as Chief Pilot in 1995.
Throughout his life, Brian was active in his church community, serving on or leading in music, worship, and parish committees, to name a few. His love for choral music was evident to all who knew him, and he shared his talent, sense of humor, and distinctive bass voice with church choirs and choral societies wherever he lived.
Brian’s deep love for the community of Ocean Park began as a child and stayed with him throughout his life. The memories, traditions, and friendships formed in Ocean Park meant he dreamt of summer all year and treasured every moment of “high season.” He loved summer worship in the temple, tennis in the early mornings, and breakfast at the soda fountain. He gave of himself, serving on committees and then as President of the Ocean Park Association, but always felt he was the one blessed to be part of Ocean Park.
Brian leaves behind a daughter Karen (Olsen) Chiklakis, her husband Bill, and their children Elena and Christopher, all of Georgetown, Massachusetts; son James A. Olsen of Maynard, Massachusetts; the mother of his children, Beverly Sisk Olsen, and much-loved extended family and friends. He was pre-deceased by son Robert B. Olsen, daughter Kristen G. Olsen, and sister Gail Pulsifer.
A memorial service celebrating Brian’s life will be held Saturday, Dec. 31, at 10:30 am at First Parish Church, 12 Beach St. Saco, Maine. Rev. Deborah Breault will officiate. Air Force Military Honors will conclude the service.
A reception immediately following the service will be held at the church. All are welcome. A private family burial will be held in Acton, Massachusetts at a later date.
Dennett, Craig & Pate Funeral Home and Cremation, 365 Main St, Saco, have been entrusted with the arrangements. For those wishing to make a contribution in his memory, please consider donating to the Ocean Park Association.
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