James O. Olsen

James O. Olsen, age 80, of Monmouth passed away at 6:30 p.m., July 2, 2010 at his residence in Monmouth. He was born on November 22, 1929 in Muskegon, Michigan, the son of William G. and Elsa L. Padelt Olsen. He was reared and educated in Muskegon and graduated from Muskegon High School. James is a graduate of Waldorf College, Forrest City, Ia., Luther College, Decorah, Ia. and Luther Theological Seminary in St. Paul, Mn. He married Carol M. Kearney on March 28, 1981 in Burlington, Iowa. James spent his life serving the Lord and it was his passion. He enjoyed art and was known for his chalk talk ministry. He served several area congregations including; Raritan Reformed (1997-2009), Bethel Lutheran in Stronghurst (2000-2009), Kirkwood and Smithshire United Methodist Church (1991-1996), Lostant and Richland United Methodist Church (1987-1991), Oelwein and Stanley Iowa United Methodist Church (1971-1977), Our Savior's Lutheran in Neenah, Wisconsin, First Lutheran in Eau Claire, Wi, Miltown and North Valley Lutheran in Milltown, Wi, Trinity Lutheran in Mason City, Ia, and Our Saviors and West Prairie in Leland, Ia. James served on the OSF Home Health Care Board of Directors. He did Chaplin work at several hospital over the years. He also worked with the Warren County Habitat for Humanity. James and his wife have owned and operated Genesis Christian Books and Supplies. Surviving James are two daughters, Julie (Bob) Huppe of Pardeeville, Wisconsin, and Mindy Esbaum of Monmouth, eight sons, Jeff (Tracey) Snyder-Olsen of Minocqua, Wisconsin, Jay Olsen of Madison, Wisconsin, Jon (Marcia) Olsen of Burlington, Iowa, Joel (Jennifer) Olsen of Mt. Washington, Kentucky, Jerry (Ann) Olsen of Appleton, Wisconsin, James Olsen of Rochester, Minnesota, Jeremy (Dorri) Olsen of Durant, Iowa, and Chad (Melissa) Esbaum of Durant, Iowa. There are twenty grandchildren and three great-grandchildren also surviving. He was preceded in death by his parents. Services:A funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 7, 2010 at First Lutheran Church in Monmouth. Cremation will be accorded following the service. Friends may call Tuesday evening from 6-8pm at Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth. A memorial fund has been established for his church or Starting Point in Monmouth.