Otto Serenius Olsen
Captain
May 6, 1918 – October 7, 2004
OLSEN Capt. Otto Serenius Born in Bella Coola May 6, 1918. On October 7, 2004 Otto, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with Alzheimers disease. He leaves behind his loving wife of 52 years, Gertrude, and children, Clifford (Kim) of Parksville, Marlene (David) of Seattle, Sharon (Gary) of New Westminster, and Karen (Dennis) of Surrey, as well as nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He will also be remembered by his sister, Johanna and her family, of Sidney, BC. His kindness and gentle nature endeared him to those who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all. During the war, Otto served with the Royal Canadian Air Force, Marine Division, patrolling and securing the West Coast. After receiving his Master’s papers, he skippered the packer “Western Express” for Nelson Brother’s Fishery until 1961 when he began his employment as a Coast Pilot. Otto was a Pilot with the BC Pilotage Authority from 1961 to 1983. The family extends their deepest appreciation to Mount Zion Manor in Cloverdale for the wonderful and compassionate care that Otto received over the last 3 years and the caring attention and assistance given to the attending family members during his last days. By his request, there will be no funeral service. Rather, his family will have a private gathering to celebrate his life.