Alf Olsen of Mt Bethel, PA and formerly of Sparta, NJ, was born in Kvinesdal, Norway to Thomas Olsen and Sofie Egeland on April 29, 1942. At the age of six, Alf and his family moved from Norway where he grew up in Brooklyn, NY. He attended the Salvation Army at an early age and he came to love the Lord Jesus Christ. Alf met his future wife, Susan, during Sunday School at the Salvation Army and the two of them have been inseparable ever since. On January 30, 1965, Alf and Susan decided to get married and spend the rest of their lives together.
After high school, Alf attended the Brooklyn School of Pharmacy where he graduated first in his class. He worked as a pharmacist throughout his life and he truly enjoyed helping people get well. Alf was also a proud member of the United States Army where he served his country with pride and honor.
Some of Alf’s greatest joys in life were watching his children compete in sports where he would travel hundreds of miles to attend their games. During his free time, he absolutely loved to attend Sparta High School soccer games and the players enjoyed seeing him on the sidelines as well. As he got older, Alf joined a senior bowling league where he met some of his closest friends. He looked forward to the days where he and Susan can go to the lanes and enjoy their social lives.
All those who have had the pleasure of knowing Alf, understood his passion for life and his willingness to help anyone in need. He was famed for his sense of humor and practical jokes, where he pranked anyone within arm’s reach. He was most proud of his family and he was never shy to express his love for them. Alf is survived by his loving wife, Susan Olsen, his four children, Barbara Olsen, Thomas Olsen and his wife Abby Olsen, Daniel Olsen and his wife Sandra Olsen, Susan Silva and her husband Rich Silva, his eight grandchildren, and two sisters, Svanhild Johannesen and Thelma Rongved.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation for Alf at the Salvation Army, 443 Chestnut St. Kearny on Wednesday October 6 from 1-3 PM, followed by a funeral service at 3 PM, with bestowment of military honors. Cremation will be held privately. Guests attending services are kindly asked to wear a mask. Arrangements are entrusted to the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Salvation Army, 28 Beech St. Kearny, NJ 07032.
