Obituary of Steinar Bjarne Karlsen

Steinar Bjarne Karlsen, 73, of Rena, Norway passed away June 17, 2015 in Salmon, Idaho. Steinar was born June 18, 1941 in Oslo, Norway to Einar and Astrid (Olsen) Karlsen. Steinar emigrated from Norway at age 12 with his parents and 4 sisters to Utah. At age 16 Steinar joined the Norwegian Merchant Marines and traveled to South America. He had a passion for philosophy and reading. He had a great love and interest in Native American culture and displayed this love in many of his art works and wrote a book centered on his personal adherence to much of the belief system. He worked as an artist in many different mediums and enjoyed painting, sculpting, chainsaw art and was renowned and loved for his beautiful Scandinavian themed art work at the Hostfest North American’s largest Scandinavian festival in Minot, ND. His love of peoples and cultures and free spirited lifestyle took him to many different countries and all 50 states. He wrote of his life in poetry as well as his book The Gift of the Wind. He was a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 33 years. He was loved and adored the world over by friends and people that his life had touched. As much as he taught in his life he taught also in his death and he will be greatly missed. Steinar is survived by two daughters Cindy Karlsen Olson of Salmon, ID and Kayleen Asbo of Mill Valley, CA. Grandchildren Caleb Jonas of Athol, Idaho, Lincoln Bevers of Coeur D’ Alene, Idaho and Emma Asbo of Mill Valley, CA. 3 great-grandchildren; Sisters Eva Johannssen of Boise, ID, Astrid Scott of SLC, UT, Solveig Amador of Boise, ID and Gro Puett of Boise, ID; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Upon his request no services will be held.