Valerie Jeanne Olesen

Valerie Emerson Olesen, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on May 22, 1948, in Los Angeles, California, Valerie was the cherished daughter of Reggie and Josephine Emerson, who preceded her in death, along with her older brother, Reggie Jr.

Valerie was a devoted wife to her high school sweetheart, Randolph Olesen, whom she married on September 9, 1973. Valerie’s legacy lives on through her three children: daughters Stacie and Natalie, and son Darren, as well as her treasured granddaughter, Ashleigh.

A proud graduate of Abraham Lincoln High School, Class of 1966, Valerie was known for her dedication and hard work. She served her community with distinction, working at the Mercury News from 1968 until her retirement in 2007.

Valerie had a talent for transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. She found joy in the art of making jams and jellies with handpicked plums and grapes from her mother’s backyard, a craft at which she excelled, winning numerous first-place ribbons at county and state fairs. Her culinary creations were a testament to her meticulous nature and her love for sharing joy through food.

An accomplished seamstress, Valerie’s creativity knew no bounds. She delighted in sewing clothes for herself and her family, including elaborate Halloween costumes that turned each October into a memorable celebration. She also loved decorating for the holidays, something she enjoyed and took great pride in.

Valerie was a woman of kindness and generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and family. Whether it was assisting with home improvement projects or gardening, her enthusiasm and perfectionism were inspiring to all who knew her. Her life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to helping others and her ability to see beauty in the world around her.

A Rosary service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on September 11, 2026, at Alameda Family Funeral & Cremation in Saratoga. A funeral service will be held the following day, September 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Alameda Family Funeral & Cremation.

Family and friends are invited to gather together to remember and celebrate Valerie’s life and to honor a remarkable woman who touched the lives of so many.