Luther Olson
September 2, 2000 – March 18, 2026
Luther Olson came into the world September 2, 2000 and spent the next twenty-five years sharing his special brand of kindness, enthusiasm and humor with us. He died on March 18, 2026, before his life really unfolded its strong wings.
He grew up mostly in Point Roberts, Washington, where the forest meets the ocean and the border runs through the middle of everything. The trees and the tides shaped him early, and that love of wild places never left him. The border did too, and he didn’t like artificial lines that separated people from each other and from their potential.
Through his father’s maritime career he traveled frequently with his family, always looking for a way to get in the water and a way to make new friends. He loved spending time in Saskatchewan and in San Francisco with his extended family. He was passionate about sports, whether playing soccer or rooting for the Mariners.
As an adult Luther made his home in Bellingham. He liked being his own boss and was a talented entrepreneur with a passion for local producers and creators. He valued what’s particular and handmade in a world that keeps tilting toward the generic. With a huge heart he was devoted to the people, and dogs, he loved. He led with compassion and generosity.
Luther developed epilepsy as he entered adulthood. He died on March 18th following a seizure, with his beloved dog Kova at his side. He would have wanted her remembered exactly as she was: loyal and loving.
He is survived by his mother Meg and his father Brad, his sister Liz and Breonna, his girlfriend and fierce protector for many years. He also leaves behind a circle of devoted friends, a dozen beautiful bongs that can only be described as functional art, and an impressive collection of immaculate shoes. Luther had places to go and footwear to ensure he went there in style.
We will gather to celebrate Luther on Friday, June 12 at 2 p.m. at Hovander Homestead Park in Ferndale. Please bring memories and water balloons.
