Robert L. Olson
KENNEBUNK – Robert Lee Olson, 77, a man of profound faith, intellectual curiosity and a strong belief system that he followed every day, passed away Aug. 18, 2025, following a period of failing health that he hid from all who knew him.
Robert was the oldest of five children. Born Nov. 30, 1947, in San Mateo, Calif. to Warren E. and Nancy Hill Olson. Following his high school graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1967 to 1971 as an Aerographic Mate 3rd Class, where he was part of the Fleet Numerical Weather Control.
Upon his discharge, he returned to school, earning a BS in Radiochemistry from San Jose State University in 1976. His pursuit of knowledge continued with studies in Quantum Mechanics and Advanced Math, as well as Socratic Dialogue for an MS in Business at Stanford.
His professional life was marked by significant contributions to various companies. He worked at Plessy Micro Science in Mt. View for three years, followed by 15 years at Johnson Matthey in Marketing/Sales Engineering. He also spent three years at ASAT and three years at NGK.
Beyond his career, Robert was a man of many passions. He volunteered on the Board of Laudholm Farm Trust for 16 years and was also involved with the Kennebunk Land Trust; a member of the Portland Camera Club and the American Chemical Society for 25 years. Robert was a dedicated member of the Filoli Historical Society from 1993-2025 and a Stephen Ministry Leader. He was also a member of several semiconductor standards committees from 1994-2025.
His love for exploration led him to travel to all 50 states, Eastern Asia, and most European countries while listening to Grateful Dead music or George Harrison. He enjoyed reading mysteries and spy novels. A devout individual, he read the Bible daily, having read it in its entirety 32 times. Photography and the Bible were among his favorite things. His photography philosophy was to “go out and shoot what makes your Heart sing!”. His faith was central to his life, as he stated, “I Am here to Tell others about God’s Love and to share it with all”. Having recently graduated from Lay Ministry training through the United Methodist Church, he was proud to have been recently appointed to the Berwick United Methodist Church.
Robert was predeceased by his parents and sisters, Terry and Janice.
Robert is survived by his children, Erik and Matt; his grandchildren, Grace, Grant, Viggo, and Jaxon; and his great-grandchildren, Mark and Brandi; his former wife, Carol Oster; a niece, Stephanie Meehan; a brother, Keith Olson and sister, Diana Ramos.
No services will be held at this time.
To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, please visit Bob’s Book of Memories Page at
Arrangements are in the care of Bibber Memorial Chapel, 67 Summer St., Kennebunk, ME 04043.
Should friends desire,
a donation can be made
in Robert’s memory to
Wounded Warrior Project
P.O. Box 758516
Topeka, KS 66675
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