Lowell Olsen

Lowell Eugene Olsen, 89, passed away on his terms on Sunday, June 30, 2019 at Bickford Cottage in Davenport, Iowa with his daughters at his side assisted by Hospice Compassus.

He was born June 21, 1930 to Kristine (Schmidt) and Soren Olsen, Danish immigrants. He was raised in Humboldt, Iowa and known as Gene. He was a celebrated athlete but joined the Navy at the age of 18 along with 13 of his buddies to serve during the Korean War.

He married Edith McFarland on August 9, 1953 and upon his honorable discharge took a job at Alcoa and relocated to the Quad Cities. His co-workers called him Olie and his friends called him Sam. He spent close to half his career in the union as a Business Agent and the remaining half in management so he could spend more time with his wife and children. He took great pride in the fact that he was retired more years than he worked and enjoyed coffee with his Alcoa buddies at Hy-Vee.

Sam was an avid sports fan and diehard Iowa Hawkeye who also enjoyed his bowling league, poker nights and was the 2018 champion of the family fantasy football league.

He was a devoted husband and father always putting family first. His work ethic was unmatched and he always preached “if it was worth doing; it was worth doing right.” His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the love of his life.

Those left to treasure his memory include his children, Terry (Jackie) Olsen of Bettendorf, Doug Olsen of Davenport, Iowa, Cynthia Bostic of Davenport and Lindy (Jake) Crossley of Littleton, Colorado, five grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one step great-grandchild and his loving sister Janet Bishey of Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Sam was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, his parents, three older brothers and two older sisters.

The family would like to sincerely thank all the caregivers at Bickford Cottage for doing an amazing job of taking care of Dad and remind them to get a dilly bar before they’re all gone.

Services will be held Friday, July 5, 2019 at McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home Bettendorf. Visitation begins at noon with a celebration of life to follow at 1:30 p.m. The family encourages everyone to come casual and wear your best Iowa Hawkeye or favorite sports team attire. Jeans and shorts are encouraged.

Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Lowell’s obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com. Memorials can be made to VFW Post 9120, Bettendorf.

And to the Ginger Bread Man who has been dropping a can of raunchy beer and fart Christmas card on Olie’s front steps every Christmas Eve for over 20 years the family would like to meet you if you’re so inclined.