Joseph Jerome Olson, St. Marys

Joseph Jerome Olson, 89, affectionately known as “Jerry” and “Swede,” was born on April 21, 1937, and was a lifelong resident of the St. Marys and Kersey, Pennsylvania, communities. On May 18, 1963, Jerry married E. Ellen Simbeck, who survives him. He was a devoted husband and family man, a proud Navy veteran, and a friend to everyone he met. Outgoing by nature, Jerry had a gift for connecting with people and making them feel welcome. He believed deeply in the importance of giving back to the community he called home and dedicated much of his life to doing just that.

Jerry graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1955 and earned an associate degree in engineering from Valley Forge Military Academy in 1957. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the aircraft carrier USS Independence. Following his military service, he began a career at Keystone Thermometrics, where he dedicated 38 years before retiring.

Jerry is survived by his wife Ellen, their two daughters, E. Laura Eacho and M. Krista Titman (Robert L. Titman). He was a proud grandfather to Sarah O. Eacho, David P. Eacho (wife Tiffany), Joseph L. Titman, and Christopher R. Titman (fiancée Jamie Sterner), all who survive him. He is also survived by his sister, M. Christine Lechien. Family was at the heart of Jerry’s life, and he treasured the time he spent with his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and extended family. Jerry especially cherished. any time spent with his brother and sister. His family, friends, faith, and community were always close to his heart.

Giving back was more than a commitment for Jerry; it was a way of life.

He served as Elk County Jury Commissioner, first elected to the position in 2009, reflecting his continued dedication to public service. He also served as secretary of the Fox Township Planning Commission and held several leadership roles with the St. Marys Lions Club, including president, vice president, and secretary. In addition, he served as secretary of the Columbian Club in St. Marys and as advancement chairman for Boy Scout Troop 95, with which he was affiliated for more than 50 years. Through his longstanding involvement in Scouting, Jerry helped guide and encourage generations of young people.

Jerry also served as publicity chairman for the St. Marys Sportsmen’s Club and Elk County Youth Field Day, a cause he remained passionate about throughout his life. His commitment to helping others extended to volunteering at the hospital as a Lifeline installer and serving with Meals on Wheels. Whether in a leadership role or quietly lending a hand, Jerry was always willing to give his time and energy to others.

An outdoorsman at heart, Jerry especially loved spending time at Camp Whippoorwill with his family and bird hunting with his dogs. His enthusiasm for the outdoors reflected his appreciation for the simple pleasures in life and the lasting memories made with the people closest to him.

Jerry’s outgoing personality and genuine interest in others helped him build lasting friendships throughout the community. He understood that making a difference did not always require grand gestures; often, it simply meant showing up, lending a hand, and being there for someone who needed it.

He was preceded in death by his parents, S. Jerome Olson and Rosemary Warren Olson, and his brother, G. Warren Olson.

Jerry leaves behind a legacy defined by love, generosity, friendship, and service. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud Navy veteran, dedicated community servant, avid outdoorsman, and loyal friend. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the young people he mentored, the organizations he supported, and the countless lives he touched throughout the St. Marys and Kersey communities.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, 337 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 12:00PM with Rev. Ignatius Camello, O.S.B., celebrating. Full military honors will be accorded by the St. Marys Servicemen’s Burial Detail. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home, 169 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 10:15AM until 11:15AM.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or to Penn Highlands Community Nurses Memorial Fund, Suite 200, 757 Johnsonburg Road, St. Marys, PA 15857.

Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com