Bainbridge Island resident Joyce M. Olsen, age 69, died Dec. 17 at Harrison Hospital, Bremerton.

She was born Sept. 20, 1933 in Wenatchee to David W. and Rose Evelyn (Harberson) Buchanan.

She moved to Western Washington in 1947 when her father became superintendent of schools on Bainbridge Island (1947-1960).

The old Bainbridge Island gymnasium was named the David W. Buchanan gymnasium in honor of her father.

She graduated from Bainbridge High School and in 1951 attended one year at the University of Washington.

Bob Olsen used to hang around her house, ostensibly to play basketball with her brother Buck, but a romantic interest developed between Bob and Joyce. They married on Aug. 21, 1953.

Her husband’s partner in life and in business, she helped run Hockett & Olsen Brothers, Inc. as bookkeeper and partner.

Joyce enjoyed working in her garden and yard. She also made time to hunt, fish, camp and golf, and was a “mom” to many of the neighborhood kids.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Bob “Ole” Olsen; son Ron Olsen of Mill Creek; daughter Tamerra Olsen of Silverdale; sister-in-law Gloria Buchanan, of Kingston; niece Cheryl Porter of Woodinville; nephew, Bob Buchanan of Auburn; as well as two great-nieces and five great-nephews.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Dec. 23 at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in her name to Helpline House, 282 Knechtel Way NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 or to Bainbridge Island Fire Department, 8895 Madison Avenue, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.

Arrangements are under the direction of Kass Funeral Home.