VISALIA, CA - It is with a heavy heart that we report the recent passing of industry leader Floyd Charles “Chuck” Olsen. He passed away on December 30, 2020, in Visalia, California, after a courageous battle with health problems related to back pain.

Olsen was born on November 20, 1943, to Floyd and Darlene Olsen. He grew up in Selma, California, and graduated from Selma High School before going on to graduate from Fresno State University with a degree in Viticulture. His first job was as a Grower Representative with Ernest and Julio Gallo. In 1971, Olsen’s uncle called to let him know he was needed on the ranch in Orange Cove, which is where he discovered his passion.

For years, Olsen worked tirelessly to promote the farm’s oranges, grapes, and tree fruit and was always proud of the success he built at Cecelia Orchards. Because of his dynamic ways, Olsen built a loyal customer base, created relationships with his customers both domestically and overseas, and fostered friendships that lasted a lifetime. After leaving the ranch in 1987, he opened The Chuck Olsen Company, where his children both joined him after graduating from college. Working with his children in an industry that he loved was a dream come true for Olsen. His son, Jeff, and son-in-law, Tom, still work for the company and are very proud to carry on the legacy.

Olsen met the love of his life, Mary, at the age of 16 and enjoyed 56 years of marriage with her. He spent his life doing what he loved: golfing, team roping, snow skiing, spending time on the Central Coast, and best of all, loving his family. He could never get enough hugs and kisses when family would walk through his door. He believed and would often say “You are nothing without your family and friends” and “We are nothing without our integrity” and he lived these words to the fullest.

Olsen was a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Shriners, and the Scottish Rite, as well as an Honorary Member of the “Los Charros” Rancheros Visitadores.

Cherishing his memory are his wife, Mary; son Jeff Olsen and wife Allison; daughter Marti Salisbury and husband Tom, and grandchildren Cate, Sara, and Will Salisbury; and Ella and Buddy Olsen. Those close to him tell us that Olsen’s greatest love and joy in life came not from possessions but from his family and loving wife, Mary.

Our team extends our deepest condolences to Chuck Olsen’s family during this difficult time.