Mary Olsen, 101

Mary Elizabeth Olsen of Poulsbo died May 18, 2007 at her home. She was 101.

Olsen was born to Robert and Matilda Arveson in Harstad, Norway on July 1, 1905.

She married Halvdan Olsen and immigrated to America in 1928.

Most of her adult life was spent in Ballard, where she was selected as the Norwegian Mother of the Year in 1973 and served as the honorary marshal of the 17th of May Parade in 2005.

Olsen is survived by her sons Robert, Stanley, Ronald, Danny, Gary Kenneth and Martin; daughter Dorothy; 30 grandchildren; 67 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.

Olsen was preceded in death by her husband Halvdan Olsen and son Harold and daughter Bjorg.

A memorial service will be held at noon May 26, 2007 at Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home, 11111 Aurora Ave. N. in Seattle.

Memorial gifts may be sent to Hospice of Kitsap County, P.O. Box 3416, Silverdale, WA 98383.