Jerome 'Jerry' Ernfred Olsen

Jerome "Jerry" Ernfred Olsen, 78, of Bella Vista, Ark., died Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013, at Northwest Medical Center in Bentonville, Ark. He was born on June 26, 1935, in Chicago, Ill., to Ernfred Ole Olsen and Anna M. Muth Olsen. Jerry was a builder and designer, owning his own business for over 40 years. Whether it was business or pleasure, his booming laugh and sense of humor filled the atmosphere with joy. Jerry had a love for traveling the world, spending time with his wife and family, was always up for a game of bridge or pinochle. And never ever late for a tee-time! Earlier leisure interests included singing, kazoo playing, fishing and tennis. He was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Church and the Creighton Prep Alumni Association. He was preceded in death by his parents; infant sister; sister, Sue; and granddaughter, Cassandra. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Fran Olsen of Bella Vista, Ark.; son, Ernie Olsen and wife, Gayle, of Tokyo, Japan; two daughters, Kim Olsen Bryan and husband, Gary, of Cary, Ill., Becky Thompson of Crystal Lake, Ill.; six grandchildren, Stephen, Christos and wife, Tammi, Ben, Jessica, Cameron and Michael; and two great-grandchildren, Gracie and Cole. A rosary will be at 9:30 a.m. with a Mass of the Resurrection at 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 16, 2013, at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Bella Vista. Arrangements are by the Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, Ark. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph's Indian School, Scholarship Fund, Chamberlain, SD 57326; or St. Bernard Catholic Church; or charity of donor's choice. Online condolences may be made to www.funeralmation.com.