Robert Neal Olsen

A much loved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, son, and brother, Robert (Bob) Olsen, 78 years old of Manhattan, Montana passed away on April 8th, 2026 peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones.  He was born on March 19th, 1948 to Arden and Betty Olsen in Williston, North Dakota.  He was an avid golfer, winning the club championship three times in Three Forks, Montana, his local and favorite golf course.  His real passion was playing small-stakes “Wolf” with his numerous golfing buddies.  Bob loved gardening and got so much pleasure in sharing the fruits of his labor with friends, neighbors, family, and especially his grandchildren.  Family and friends often fought over his delicious dill pickles, and his renowned tomatoes and peas.  He was known for his witty sense of humor and off-color stories and jokes, always told with a Fargo accent.     

Mr. Olsen worked as a teacher for 30 years in the Manhattan, Montana school district.  He taught music, math, and high school geometry.  He was a basketball coach for Junior High boys and girls teams.   He was beloved by his numerous students who to this day can be heard reciting, “You take radius, square it, times it by Pi.”  He was elected as mayor of Manhattan, Montana four times, and during his tenure, created Manhattan’s Taylor Park, including the skating rink.  He was well respected by his community.  

Bob is survived by his wife, Linda.  They started innocently flirting in the 6th grade and were married for 59 years.  He is also survived by his children Shannon, Scott and Jamie; his grandchildren Alec, Hannah and Emma; his great-grandson Levi; and his sister Diane and brother Jack.  There will be an intimate celebration of life for friends and family in Missoula in July.