Timothy Allen Olsen went home to his Lord and Savior on July 28, 2021. He was born on September 15, 1951. He was dearly loved by his parents Robert and Joyce Olsen. In 1957 his younger brother Joe joined the family. Tim was the fifth generation to live on the family ranch where he spent his life working alongside his family passing on many lessons of life in the Lord to those he loved. God blessed him with his lifelong love Janet. They shared 51 years of wonderful memories serving the Lord and watching their family grow praying always 3 John 1:4 “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
Although Tim was born in 1951 his true birth came in 1978 when he gave his heart and life to his Savior, Jesus Christ. In 1983 he was licensed into the ministry. He loved the Lord and let Christ’s love influence him and those around him. He joyfully served the Lord and spread the gospel during his years of teaching and preaching from Montana to California and Las Vegas. Tim loved his church family and the time of his passing, he was serving on the pastoral staff along side his son, Shane, and good friend, Howard Neckels at First Baptist Church in Deer Lodge.
Tim is greatly loved and survived by his wife Janet, his son Shane, daughter-in-law Lisa, his grandchildren Robert, Ryan and wife Abby, and great-grandson Carter, as well as his daughter Tanya and granddaughter Isabel.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Joyce Olsen, brother Joseph Olsen and his nephew Carrie J. Olsen.
Thank you for celebrating a life well lived. A celebration of Tim’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 127 Sam Beck Rd, Deer Lodge, MT 59722. A graveside service will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge. Please join us for a coffee and cookies fellowship following the graveside service.
Any memorials please send to a Christian organization of your choice or to First Baptist Church in Deer Lodge.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Tim.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Tim and his family.
Tracy G says
Tim was an amazing man, and a beautiful walking example of God’s love. I have so many beautiful memories of Tim. One of my first was from many years ago, when my mother and I first started going to church at First Baptist. We had gone to church a few times and then missed a service. We were so surprised when he called and said they had missed us! I’m sure he had help knowing who was there and who wasn’t but it sure made us feel welcome. He always made time for people. Tim, you were a shining light in our life and will be greatly missed. Our hearts are breaking now but we know we will see you again.
Barb Stem says
Tim, though you may be physically gone, you spread guidance and love to every life you touched. Whenever I was with you and your family I felt part of your family. What a gift you had to be able to make people feel so accepted and included. You hurt when one of your parishioners hurt and you felt joy when one of them was joyful. Your presence has made this earth a better place to be. I know that your good works will continue to influence the lives of the people you had the chance to help for many years to come. We will all miss your smile but your spirit will be with us forever.
Diane Mavrinac says
Tim had a true pastor’s heart , he loved people and that was well know , he spent himself on others, we were so blessed to have known him , he left too soon , our prayers are with the family, love Joe and Diane Mavrinac
Teri Trask says
Aunt Janet, Shane and Tonya, we are so deeply sorry for your loss. Jeff and Teri Lynn Trask
kay O says
I loved this man as a Pastor, and friend. He was very caring and had amazing messages. Did so well and really loved his Jesus. He will be missed very much by all of his church family.
Cathy Pomeroy says
I am blessed to have known Tim as my pastor and friend, and teacher for my children. His love for the Lord shined bright and he challenged me to grow stronger in my faith. I rejoice for him as I know he is in the presence of His beloved Savior. Janet, Shane, Lisa , Tanya and all of the family my heart goes out to you. I am so sorry for your loss and I pray you find peace and comfort in Jesus. With love Cathy Pomeroy
Rebecca Sargent Wyland says
I will always be thankful to Tim for both his guidance as a young Christian building a foundation of faith. I had the pleasure of being a student of Tim’s as well. Mr. Olson was a man of god always. May he Rest In Peace.
Kimberly Buck says
Tim is my cousin; we were also friends, we went all our years of school together and graduated from high school in 1970.
Many good memories growing up with our families.
Tim truly exuded love and always went the extra mile reaching out and helping people; he joyed in others’ special times of happiness and cried with those who were mourning; he will be greatly missed; and one day a reunion day with him for all who have received Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
Tim, you are “RIP” – RAISED IN PRAISE AND PEACE into the Presence of your Lord!
Duane Waber says
RIP Tim. My heart goes out to Janet, Tonya, Shane and Lisa and their kids. I have fond memories of Tim as we are both nephews of Claudia Waber, Joyce’s sister, especially wrestling conversations when Shane was competing, Thoughts and prayers to the whole family.
Beverly Davis says
Pastor Tim ministered to my mom Jeannine Atkins while she was in the hospital after she broke her hip and when she was in hospice. He was a constant for her, she was confused a lot but felt reassured and at peace when Pastor Tim came to visit. He was there when she was close to dying. God bless his family. I am so sorry. He was a great man of God.
Beverly Davis,
Janet Christnacht’s sister.
Shirley P says
Pastor Tim was always so caring. He was a true representative of living a life in Christ. Prayers for comfort.
Dessa Bundt says
When I think Tim, I think “Tim and Janet”, it’s just the way it is. His smile, his laughter, his love for God, his love for Janet, his family, love for people, his silliness, the Bible Studies at their home and his love for Larry and me. Moving to Montana leaving my home, my family and friends were made easier because of Tim and Janet. They are our friends…true friends. Ones sharing our blessings and sorrows always lending a helping hand, encouragement, hospitality personified. After church on Sundays, he would call and say how much he enjoyed having us in church, our faithfulness in attendance; Checking on us and always ended with “God Bless”. Deer Lodge for me will never be the same. Another thing: Tim kept himself physically fit. Remember one Sunday morning when he was bringing GOD’s WORD, needing an illustration and right then he kicked his foot higher than his head leaving the congregation in awe, as he continued on with the thought. Olsen family, stand tall, follow after Jesus like Tim. Share the Good News of Jesus of Nazareth with your words, deeds, hospitality, love, smile, and very lifestyle. Your life speaks volumes. “Stand up, stand up for Jesus, ye soldiers of the Cross”. That’s what Tim would say. Sending our love to you dear family and precious Janet.
Lila Roberts says
Prayers to the family! 💔💔
Janet Christnacht says
I am saddened with the passing of Pastor Tim. He has been one of my pastors since my children were little. He has been a rock to our church. We missed Tim and Janet when they moved to Las Vegas but I knew he was doing God’s work there and many people were blessed to have them those years. Tim was especially a blessing to my family when my dad passed. When my mom was in the hospital, Tim saw her every day and they read scripture and prayed. He made her day coming in to see her. Tim was always ready to listen and help people. My heart goes out to his family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I will miss his service as we are out of town but know I will be there in spirit. Tim is with Jesus and my mom and dad. Thank you for being a servant of the Lord. I will miss your smiling face..
Love in Christ,
Janet Christnacht
Laura Hampton says
Tim and Janet were so loving and amazing to us when we left the Jehovah’s Witness church. They welcomed us with loving and accepting arms. it was so incredibly needed and cherished. We are sad to hear of his passing. We loved Tim and wish his family love, peace and healing during this time.
Brian Teller says
From one of my first wrestling coaches , employers, presiding over our vows, Tim played a very important role in my life as well as the lives of many others. Our thoughts and prayers Janet, Tonya, and Shane. Rest In Peace Tim….
Carie and Brian
Dan Mavrinac says
Tim was an incredible man that always led with kindness. His legacy stretches far and wide. Our thoughts are prayers are with his family.
Dan and Rebekah Mavrinac
sandra Theophile says
Tim was a wonderful human being. He ever so kind to my late son Joey Theophile who was speical needs.
aiways there to help joey fit in and feel very wanted. Will be truly missed.Wishing his family love and peace
Karen Woods says
What a treasure Tim was. God so used him with his inspiring sermons and with his love for people and how he treated them. We will truly miss Tim, but we know where he is, and we look forward to seeing him again! Hugs to Janet and all the family. We know you will miss him terribly. Much love, Eldon (Ozzie) and Karen Woods
Kristy Boese says
Mr. Olsen held a special place in my heart. He was my teacher and my youth pastor. He officiated my wedding and my son’s funeral. I will always remember him and his faith. He was a truly good person and I appreciate all that he taught me. I am thinking of all of his family and sending love and peace.
Kristy Boese
Carol (Hunt) Doeg says
My fondest memory of Tim was one Saturday night when we were about 19, I convinced him to sneak me into the drive-in. I hid behind the seat of his Ranchero (I believe), it was a tight spot because there weren’t any other seats in the vehicle. And we made it!
Thanks Tim, for the memory and being my friend during high school! You were one of the sweetest, most kind people I know. RIP and know you will be missed!
Marshall V says
I met Tim a few years ago at a mpact conference. I was involved in a session that had me troubled. This sincere man, Tim, sought me out, visited and reassured me. Ever since then he would call me just to visit, pray, and connect. I will always remember the gentleness in which he showed to me, and, I pray, will pass that on to others.
Chuck Sanderson says
Tim ; the world is not a better place without you. But heaven must be brighter place. My dear friend.
Teresamarie Whitchurch says
Tim is such a good and beautiful soul. He well be missed.
Thank you for being so kind.
Teresa and John Whitchurch
Shayna says
Tim helped shaped who I am. Both in the classroom and in the pew. His passion for life and Jesus was evident to everyone. I can even hear him now “Oh come on” with a smile so big. He truly believed the best in people and even though I am thousands of miles away pastoring a church, his legacy is felt and remembered. I wish I could be there to hug the family. Prayers and hugs loved ones. He will not be forgotten. -Shayna
Mike and Megan Hansen says
Tim was so special. We loved him so much. Tim would always call me if he thought something was bothering me. He could just tell if you were hurting. Tim drove to Great Falls and sat with me for hours in the ICU with my brother before he passed, not just once but twice in one day. That’s the kind of man he was. One of the most righteous men I ever met. We are going to miss him. I think of what Tim would want most of all from all who knew him and most certainly it would be that we would all come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. We pray God comfort his family, his church family, and friends
Taylor says
Tim was always willing to open his arms and heart to anyone willing to accept it. He always made me feel welcomed when I came back to town and went to church. He was a man of pureness and love. He was a man who touched so many lives, and will continue to do so. May we meet again.
Michelle Pearson says
Tim was one of my favorite teachers in school.He was very positive and always had a smile on his face.RIP Tim!My thoughts and prayers are with your wife and family.
Theresa and Tom Yockim says
To Janet and Tim’s family; I pray his love for you carries you through this most difficult time.
To our Church Family, I wish I could be with you to share in the grief and feel your loving embraces. I can’t count the times Howard and Jarita and our Beloved Pastor Tim and Janet lifted me up. So many of my families’ passing and life celebrations were held in this amazing congregate. Those are big shoes to fill. Forever in our hearts. 💕 🙏✝❤
Nancy Pipkin says
My deepest sympathies , hugs, condolences, and Christian love to Janet, Shayne, and family. Brother Tim Always addressed prayer needs and made newcomers feel so welcome. Christ love shone for all to see! I know he’s fine but I will be praying for his family. Church family as well. He will be So missed
Matthew Okada says
Tim Olsen was a friend, a mentor, and like a dad to me. He taught me about teaching, God, and life as I was starting my career and growing up in our early days in Las Vegas.
Even after he moved back to Deer Lodge, we kept in touch and never forgot to check in with me as the years passed.
As long as I’ve known Tim, I can say the man was just full of love, kindness, positivity, and had the best heart. He truly loved God, loved Janet, and all of his friends and family. He worked so hard every day and as our principal Dennis Kubala pointed out, he passed while doing the work that he loved.
Our heart and condolences go out to Janet and the Olsen family.
Dan and Bev Freeman says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Janet and the rest of the Olsen family!!
DENNIS says
Tim was a man who made an impact in my life both professionally and personally. He was kind, supportive, and wise. I have such wonderful memories of him. He was a father figure in many ways. I am saddened at his departure because I know I will miss the regular check-ins and the yearly visits. God bless him and the family. Tim, I look forward to seeing you in the future. Thank you always for the moral compass you were!
Dr. Martin Krautter says
What a shock! Tim and I had mutual friends in the ministry, as in the past, I pastored a Southern Baptist Church down in St. Anthony, Idaho, where Mark Langley would occasionally put on a mini piano concert for us, like only he could, prior to us moving up to Montana! Having both started College at Western Montana College back in the 1969-1970 school year, along with Al Cutter, of which I was Western’s first Frontier Conference Wrestling Champion in the history of the school, we always had much to talk about regarding Western, and, more currently, the ministries here in Deer Lodge. I also enjoyed the guidance by Tim regarding weight lifting when he taught at the CP Center before he retired from there. We all only have one life to live serving the Lord and now Tim has finished his course and is with the Lord he directed many to.
Tim will be missed, and I personally will miss him, but will remember the times we did have together as we both were moving closer to God’s kingdom all of the time, and with every step! Condolences to Janet and the family at their sudden loss of Tim; condolences also for the church and community at large in whom he ministered! “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints” (Ps. 116:15 KJV). Love in Christ, Dr. Martin Krautter, Pastor of Grace Baptist Church, 301 Prairie Lane, Box 88, Deer Lodge, MT 59722 http://www.facebook.com/GraceBaptistChurchDL http://www.facebook.com/LualOKrautter
Jerry Felsenstein says
I never knew Mr. Olsen, but I can tell that he was a wonderful, devoted Christian man. I got saved on September 9th, 1979 and I know, for a fact, that one day, I WILL know Mr. Olsen, as he and I hopefully converse and become friends up in Heaven!!!!!!!!!! My thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to his family during this time!! Sincerely, Jerry
Sally Brooker says
Tim was my cousin. He always had the horses saddled up and ready to go when my brother and I came to visit the ranch from Missoula. We loved Tim as a young person who taught us how to ride and had much respect for his teachings into adulthood. He will be missed!
Sally and Jay Brooker