Obituaries

Martin (Marty) J. Olsky
December 25, 1938 – February 21, 2023

We are sad to announced that on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, Martin (Marty) Olsky passed away. He was 84 years old. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Marty came to California with his family as a young boy. Living in Los Angeles, Marty attended John Burroughs Junior High and Los Angeles High School. After high school, Marty attended Arizona State College in Flagstaff, Arizona on a football scholarship, and upon returning to California, Marty received his Master of Education from the University of Southern California and began his lifelong career of teaching. Always the athlete, Marty loved playing all types of sports, including, not only football, but also baseball, softball, basketball and tennis. Although he never played, he also became very involved in soccer through his children.

Marty’s true passion throughout his life was education. He served as a teacher, coach and administrator. His presence had a profound impact on everyone he met and mentored throughout his career. Marty truly cared about others and took pride in supporting their efforts to be their very best. He would often say that one of his greatest joys when helping and supporting others is when the student surpassed the teacher in their skill and ability. Marty was the consummate teacher.

Marty was many things to many people. He was a father, a husband, a mentor, a coach, but his greatest joy, apart from education, was his family. Marty valued being a part of his children’s lives and quelled when the family was all together. He loved the holidays and events that would bring the family together. These were the moments he cherished. Marty loved life. He always had a story, a joke or a puzzle that he loved to share with others, especially his grandchildren. No one was ever a stranger to Marty as he loved getting to know and interacting with people.

Marty is survived by his wife of 29 years, Cathie and his first wife, Jeannie. He is also survived by his son, Matt, his son Greg and his wife Nancy and their daughter Nesta, his daughter, Lindsey, his stepdaughter Kiva Thompson and her husband Eric and their children, Ian and Myra and his stepson, Adam Merki.

In support of his passion for education, in lieu of flowers consider a donation to your local school or school district. Many public schools and districts have educational foundations, clubs and association that would truly benefit from your contribution. Supporting public education will continue Marty’s legacy that continued throughout his life.