Born and raised in Ballard and the oldest son of immigrant Norwegian parents, Olsen graduated from Ballard High School in 1951. He entered the University of Washington, whereupon he obtained his degree in Civil Engineering.

He began his professional career with what is now the Washington State Department of Transportation. The new highway system that was to become known as Interstate 5 was being planned and John became a part of that design team for the state. Then in the early 1960s, he became the first city engineer for the City of Lynnwood. Finally, in 1968 and for the next nearly thirty (30) years, John was employed by Reid-Middleton Engineers (Everett, WA), attaining the position of Executive Vice President and Director of Engineering.

Known by his colleagues as the “Father of the Modern Marina,” John was lead designer for the marinas at the Port of Everett, Port of Edmonds, John Wayne Marina in Sequim, and Des Moines Marina. These designs included creation of breakwater protection, dock design, and shore features.

His best known and crowning engineering achievement was leading the team that was ultimately awarded the competitively-bid contract for the U.S. Navy’s homeport – known as Naval Station Everett. The award was based not only on his detailed design of the facility but his realistic cost estimates for the project.

In addition to his successful professional career, John was a tireless volunteer, especially with the Norse Home of Seattle as well as Norway Park. John passed away in May of 2013 at the age of 79.