Leif Adam Olin
October 21, 1971 ~ March 14, 2024
In loving memory of Leif Olin, born on October 21, 1971, in Plattsburgh, New York, and departed from this world on March 14, 2024, in Gainesville, Florida, at 52. Leif was a gentle and compassionate soul whose love for his family and friends knew no bounds.
Leif leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his devoted mother, Kay Olin; his sisters, Stephanie Olin, Hilary Walker and her husband, Trae; Meredith Goodnight and her husband, John; his brother, Reed Olin; and Leif’s nieces and nephews, Bella,
Michael, Lucy, and Austin. His father, Phillip Olin, passed away before him.
Leif's path in life took him through Gainesville High School and Santa Fe Community College. After high school and college, he worked as a tree worker and had brief stints as a movie extra. He also worked in construction and served as a handyman.
Sadly, Leif struggled with alcoholism and depression throughout his adult life despite being loved and offered help by many. He was Baker Acted countless times due to his struggles. Unfortunately, our state’s mental health system failed him. In Leif’s memory, we ask you to
advocate for more proactive and ongoing mental health services for children and adults.
If you or someone you love is suffering from mental health disorders or addiction, please call 1-877-624-1853 or go to
https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/resources/dual-diagnosis/
Leif's memory will forever abide in the hearts of those who loved him.
“Through your blessing, grace, and guidance,
through the power of the light that streams from you:
May all my negative karma, destructive emotions,
obscurations and blockages be purified and removed,
May I know myself forgiven
for all the harm I may have thought and done,
May I accomplish this profound practice of phowa,
and die a good and peaceful death,
And through the triumph of my death,
may I be able to benefit all other beings, living or dead.”
Excerpt from The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying
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Dear Family and Friends,
Leif's death has been heartwrenching for many of us. Although we know that he is no longer suffering from addiction, we had always hoped and prayed that someday he'd make it through his lifelong battle with alcoholism and enjoy life once again. His addiction took everything away from him. If you are struggling with addiction or mental illness, please reach out to someone for help. There is still a lot of good in this world. Look for it and hold it tight.
Leif was so much more than an addict though. To me, he was a wonderful brother. While growing up, we spent endless hours playing outdoors with our neighborhood friends building forts, making mudpies, and having pinecone wars. We had so much fun together. He also always had my back and did his best to make sure that the rest of our family was free from harm. During our teenage years, we had many friends in common. Shawn, Leif, and Todd were inseparable. I often tagged along. I have so many great memories of riding down our dirt road and doing donuts or fishtailing with them while listening to Beastie Boy's Paul Revere…. Life was good. That Leif that I knew so well has been gone for awhile. I pray that he is whole again and is now at peace. Until we meet again, my brother… I love you.
Dear Kay, Stephanie, Meredith, Hillary, Reed, and all other family members. I am profoundly sorry for your loss, and pray for your peace, and too, for Leif's.