On June 11, 2024 Bernard (Barney) Lawrence Olsen of St. Albert passed away at the age of 87 years. He is survived by his wife Joyce, two sons; Kelly (Sandy) and Scott (Bergljot), six grandchildren; Katie, Selma, Samson, Adam, Emil, and Elijah, three brothers; Ken, Harold, Don and two sisters; Iris and Eileen.

Barney was born in Lac La Biche, Alberta and moved to Calder in Edmonton as a boy. He attended St. Joseph High School. He met his wife Joyce Kostuk and the two were married on August 30, 1958.

Barney was a skilled cartoonist and spent a number of years drawing cartoons for The Roughneck. Then he worked as a typesetter at the Edmonton Journal until his retirement. Barney loved to draw pictures and greeting cards for family and friends or just random people if he sat long enough.

Barney and Joyce welcomed two sons; Kelly in 1966 and Scott in 1972. Barney was a wonderful father and often helped coach the boys in baseball and hockey. He loved camping, fishing, and ice fishing with his family, extended family, and friends. He also found time to volunteer for his community of Killarney. Barney and Joyce loved going on car rides and often stopping at garage sales. His greatest joys were his grandchildren. He spent many hours attending baseball, hockey, basketball, and volleyball games. He loved going on picnics and teaching the kids how to fish (summer and winter). Barney was very proud of his Metis heritage and spent the last several months working on a project about his uncle Jim Brady.

Barney was predeceased by his parents Samson and Eleonor, and his brother Gerry. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Unit 18 and 15 at the Sturgeon Community Hospital, who took good care of him in his final weeks. Also a big thank you to the home care staff for their support over the last few years.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. A private family celebration will be held as per Barney’s final wishes.