In loving memory of Pauline Rita Olsen Walker

Obituary

Pauline Rita Olsen Walker of Sudbury and Sandwich, MA – passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on May 25, 2020 surrounded by her loving family.

Pauline was born in Boston on August 31, 1928. She graduated from Fitton High School and went on to attend Framingham State Teachers College. Following graduation, Pauline entered Massachusetts General Hospital Graduate Program. She became a Registered Dietitian and began her career at McLean Hospital.

Pauline lost her beloved husband, Michael Augustine Walker, in 2008. In October, they would have been married 66 years. She is also preceded in death by her parents, William (Hardy) Arthur Olsen and Mary Agnes Conway Olsen, sister Ruth Marie Olsen Hanlon, and brother Richard John Olsen.

Pauline was the adored and beloved matriarch of a large family. Her seven children and seventeen grandchildren were her crowning achievement. She is survived by her children: Nancy Gryniewski (Paul); Michael Jr. (Cindy); Christopher (Margaret); Paula Walker Keller, Gregory (Pamela); Frederick (Susanne); Timothy; and her grandchildren: Catherine Woods (Jim); Samuel Walker (Abby); Victoria Gryniewski, Eleanor Walker, Claire Keller, Haley Walker, Jack Keller, Luke Walker, Matthew Walker, Grace Walker, Austin Keller, Wyatt Walker, Erin Walker, Hannah Walker, Audrey Walker, Ava Walker, Millie Walker; her brother Donald Olsen, and many nieces and nephews.

Pauline’s life was centered around faith, family, and lifelong friendships. She instilled these values in her children and grandchildren, which will be her lasting legacy.

Pauline and Mike moved to Sudbury in 1956, where they raised their family. Sudbury brought her the greatest years of her life. Whether it was attending sporting events for her children, hosting 4^th of July parades on Concord Road, family Thanksgiving meals at The Wayside Inn, or attending mass at Our Lady of Fatima, Sudbury was the heart of her life.

In 1978, Mike and Pauline purchased a home in Sandwich, which would eventually become their permanent residence. In her later years, she found much joy welcoming her grandchildren there, tending to her gardens, and basking in the sun on the beaches of Cape Cod and Naples, FL.

Due to the extraordinary times, a gathering and a service in Pauline’s memory will be held at a future date. For those interested in attending, please email walker.christopher@comcast.net and details will be shared when available. A private burial service is planned at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the American Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org).