Robert Olsen

On August 28, 2025, Firefighter Robert Olsen lost his battle with advanced ALS, which was attributed to the time he spent assigned to the search and rescue efforts at the World Trade Center site following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. After several misdiagnoses, Olsen was found to be suffering from advanced Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. When he was diagnosed, he fought long and hard to have the disease added to the list of 9/11-related diseases. He was the single greatest advocate for World Trade Center ALS victims. He was 55 years old at the time of his death. 

Olsen served the New York City Fire Department from May 1998 until retiring in June 2022. His last assignment was with Engine 229/Ladder 146 in Brooklyn, serving Williamsburg and surrounding areas. He was dedicated to his job and loved the camaraderie of the firehouse and the people he worked with. He participated in the search and rescue efforts at Ground Zero, without a thought for his own safety. He was a true hero who will never be forgotten. 

Firefighter Robert Olsen is survived by his loving wife, Natalie, his children, Paige, Owen, and Ryan, his siblings, Thomas, Ann, John, Steven, Kevin, and Susan, and many other cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Olsen family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.