Steve Olesin- In Memorium

[Dave Anderson NH]

I just learned this morning that Steve Olesin and his wife died in an auto accident on their way back from a trip to NJ last weekend. Steve was a fine woodworker with both hand and power tools, an accomplished artist in several media, an author, and an all around wonderful guy who loved to share his hobbies and passions with everyone. I had the honor to be asked by him to help review and critique several chapters of one of his manuscripts on making hand tools. His first book, TOOL MAKING PROJECTS FOR JOINERY AND WOODWORKING, was published last fall by Cambium Books. It is a great book which allows the non-technical person who has no metalworking knowledge to make their own hand tools.

Steve was a member of our NH guild and was the current president of the Eastern Massachusetts Guild of Woodworkers. His loss will be felt by all of us.

[Mark Rios]

That's terrible Dave. My best to his family, to you and to your group.

[Jim Becker]

While I didn't know of this person, it saddens me to hear this kind of news. Thanks for posting, Dave. I'm sure from your description that Steve will be missed well beyond his family.

[Dan Forman]

Sorry to hear of the passing of your friends.

Dan

[Matthew Dworman]

That is terribly sad news. I knew Steve well and can honestly say that he was a super human being. A wealth of knowledge that he would share with anyone.

[Dan Racette]

that really get you in the pit of your stomach. how incredibly sad.

Thanks for posting, Dave.

Dan

[Matthew Dworman]

Going through some pics of my shop, I ran across a few of Steve:,

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=37133&stc=1&d=1145915017

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=37134&stc=1&d=1145915017[/URL]

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=37135&stc=1&d=1145915017

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=37136&stc=1&d=1145915017[URL="http://www.sawmillcreek.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=37136&stc=1&d=1145915017"] (http://www.sawmillcreek.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=37134&stc=1&d=1145915017)

[harry strasil]

Altho I didn't know Mr. Olesin from the talk about him, this poem would seem to fit well.

THE DUSTY WORKBENCH

When on the craftsman's silent form
His folded hands are still,
And dust has gathered on his tools,
And bench, and window sill,
A moment of reflection comes;
We seek to understand
From whence the light and wisdom came
To guide his master hand.

His craftssmanship a story tells
Of patience, care and skill;
Through product of his handiwork
His voice is speaking still.
The tale it tells of simple taste
In shape and place and size
Is perfect as a rose in bloom
And pleasing to one's eyes.

Perhaps his goal was never reached;
But product of his hand
Was service 'kin to worship
That all people understand.
Each article a monument
that inspiration brings
From him whose able, willing hands
Shaped only lovely things.

[Alan Turner]

Dave,
While in Portland, and visiting Powells, I ran across Steve's book, bought it, and read it on the way home. A fine work. Thanks for the recommendation. I am sorry to have learned of his passing.

[Bruce Page]

How very sad.

[Richard Wolf]

What a shame!

Richard

[Dave Ray]

God has a special place set aside for a man/woman who not only excels at his/her vocation but willingly shares his/her knowledge with others. Rest assured this gentleman resides in that place.

[Dave Anderson NH]

As the days go by I notice more and more the fact that Steve isn't around. It is heartening to know however that he will live on because of his book, the impact he has made in his community of Acton MA, and the way he touched the lives of two large communities of woodworkers in MA and NH. I think I will always be able to see his subtle infectious smile and hear the soft voice offering help and suggestions to his friends.

[Ted Owen]

Very sorry to hear this, Dave.

Best, Ted

[Steve Clardy]

Sorry to hear this.

[Mike Olesin]

I think I will always be able to see his subtle infectious smile and hear the soft voice offering help and suggestions to his friends.

I will miss his insight in my life though he will forever continue to be an influence.

His website is still live for those who would like to view some of his work.

http://www.creatiere.com/