Richard Olmstead

Richard Olmstead, 72, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away unexpectedly on March 7, 2025.

Richard was born on August 28,1952, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Frank and Annabelle Olmstead. He graduated from Grand Forks Central High School in 1970. After high school, he worked at the Colonial Pancake House where he met his wife Debbie. They married in 1974. He worked at Conlin’s furniture for nearly 30 years and retired in 2017.

Richard was most known for being a devoted family man. Throughout his life, he undoubtedly put his family first, showing limitless, unconditional love and support for his two sons, Craig and Grant, and seven grandchildren. One of his proudest and happiest moments in his life was celebrating 50 years of marriage to his beloved wife, Debbie, in 2024.

Many remember Richard for his fondness of classic cars. His old “Mav” was a favorite of his sons and their friends growing up. In his younger years, he owned several classic models, including Chevy Chevelles and Road Runners. He loved attending car shows and auctions and was able to make it to the Barret-Jackson car auction in 2024. Most recently, he proudly built an extensive collection of model cars, always willing to show them off to anyone who came over.

He loved holidays, whether it was loading the yard with halloween inflatables, lining the house with the brightest Christmas lights and musical decorations or igniting fireworks in the driveway on the Fourth of July, even at the risk of a visit from the boys in blue. He would always send cards to his family for every occasion, filling them with thoughtful notes to make us smile.

Most recently, his passion was his role as grandpa, supporting his grandchildren in their many activities, cheering in the stands at soccer, basketball and volleyball games and gymnastics meets; attending musicals, plays and choir concerts; and more. He was so proud of each and every one of them and loved playing games with them like Yahtzee and 31 (always knocking too early). We know that he will be big their biggest fan from above, cheering them on and showering them with love and support.

Richard was active member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

Richard is proceeded in death by his parents, Frank and Annabelle; his brother, Frank Olmstead; his in-laws Doug and Marge Lealos; and his nephew Chris Hildre.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie (Lealos); his sons, Craig (Katie) and Grant (Tera); seven grandchildren: Olivia (20), Avery (19), Issac (17), Rowan (16), Lillia (13), Lucas (12) and Atley (10); his sisters Laurie Santangelo (John) and Mary Hildre (Spencer), his sister-in-laws Sandy, Barb (Randy), Laurie and bother-in-law DJ (Dara).

Per Richard’s wishes, his body will be donated to the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences and there will not be a formal service.