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Speaking on behalf of the choirs was Robert “Charlie” Knapp, a choir member since 1989.
“My musical training is mostly through church choirs since I was in fifth grade, and I noticed immediately a level of dedication and professionalism on your part that I have taken with me since 1989,” he told Olsen.
“My biggest memory, of course, was when you prepared the youth bell choir for a tour in 1995 that brought all the parents close together, and it was amazing the level of musicianship you inspired in those youth. And you keep doing it every Sunday over and over again,” Knapp added.
He pointed out that a line in the morning’s hymn, “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee,” summarizes the congregation’s feelings.
“The very last line of the very last verse: ‘Joyful music leads us sunward in the triumph song of life.’ And that is what you have given us, Marv. Thank you for 50 years,” Knapp said.
According to Ruth Hammiller, Olsen has been a joy to perform for since she joined the senior and handbell choirs in 1984.
“He is very positive and offers constructive criticism in a noncritical, loving way so it never feels like criticism in any way,” she said. “It is more about doing something a different way than ‘you’re doing something the wrong way.’”
Hammiller noted that Olsen never has complained, despite undergoing physical illness and surgeries.
“He always has had a smile on his face, even when everyone knew he was in pain,” she said. “He has kept things positive and is very upbeat and kind.”
Hammiller noted that Olsen started the bell choir performing at Christmastime at Fairhaven Senior Services in Whitewater, as well as at several other venues with other bell choirs.
Calling his dedication to the church “exceptional,” she said Olsen was active in the congregation’s purchases of a new organ and grand piano.
“He is always bringing new music in, and is faithful in his service to the church,” Hammiller concluded.
The service, including the plaque presentation, may be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/@fortatkinsonunitedchurchof7730/streams.
The Rev. Dr. Sara Rabe presents a plaque to Marvin Olsen commemorating his 50 years as director of music at First Congregational United Church of Christ, Fort Atkinson.
Marvin Olsen, seated and holding his plaque, gathers with members of the senior and handbell choirs and the Rev. Dr. Sara Rabe, at left, as First Congregational United Church of Christ celebrates Olsen’s half-century as director of music.
Speaking on behalf of the choirs, Robert “Charlie” Knapp, a member of the church choirs since 1989, at left, congratulates Marvin Olsen, seated, on his 50 years as the church’s director of music.
Marvin Olsen, Fort Atkinson, displays the plaque given to him in recognition of his 50 years as director of music at First Congregational United Church of Christ.
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What a wonderful and well-deserved honor. It was a privilege to work with Marv at the School District of Fort Atkinson, and he continues to bring joy to others through his musical talents and encouraging attitude.