Clara Salzgaber Olsen

Clara Salzgaber Olsen died after a short hospitalization on October 11, 2016. She was born to Elsie and Clarence Salzgaber of Columbus, Ohio, on December 29, 1925. She grew up in a busy and loving household as one of eight children. She graduated from Hilliard H.S. and Franklin University and was employed as an executive secretary at the Park Federal Savings and Loan Association. She met her husband, Fred Olsen, at a dance in Ohio and they were married on September 5, 1948, and celebrated 63 years of marriage until his death in 2011. Mom became a homemaker developing wonderful cooking/baking skills. She grew her own fruits and vegetables and preserved jar upon jar of the healthy and the sweet. She branched out with her own whole wheat sourdough yeast for baking bread, pancakes, and doughnuts. Her berry pies were without rival and coveted by many. She and dad enjoyed entertaining at their home using the good china, fine stemware, and serving delicious food. Mom would never sit down during these occasions as she was always concerned about the well being of others. It became a bit of family humor as we would always say, “Mom, you need to sit down and join us!” Mom and dad traveled extensively abroad including a two year stint in New Delhi, India, and a six month adventure throughout Europe in a Volkswagen Campmobile. She enjoyed playing card games, Mexican Train Dominoes, and Scrabble. Sometimes she would forget the rules to these games, but would somehow manage to be victorious at the end. Go figure. Clara and Fred attended WWU sporting events. They especially enjoyed Western basketball where they were perennial season ticket holders. Mom was a collector of Depression glass. Her milk glass collection was a source of pride as was her collection of Heisey toothpick holders. Through the years she devoted much time to the Eastern Star and Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church. Clara served as past Worthy Matron of Maple Leaf Chapter. After her husband’s death, Clara moved to the Parkway Chateau where she enjoyed many friendships and activities. She loved her weekly game of Beanbag Baseball where she was crowned the “Homerun Queen.” Ultimately, mom was always a staunch supporter of her family far and near! She is survived by two of her sisters Mary Brush and Betty Patch of Ohio, son Fred (Sandy), daughter Christine, grandson Scott (Erin) and great grandson Quentin. Funeral services will be held Friday, October 21, at 3:00 PM at Greenacres Memorial Park. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Whatcom Humane Society.

Clara Salzgaber Olsen

December 29, 1925 - October 11, 2016