Linda J. (Bernhardt) Olsen, 79, of Framingham, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at The Branches of Marlboro. Lin was the beloved wife of Richard E. Olsen, with whom she shared 56 years of marriage.

Born in Lawrence, Lin was the daughter of the late George and Florence (Anderson) Bernhardt. She graduated valedictorian of the Lawrence High School, Class of 1964. Lin went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1968, followed by a Master's Degree in Engineering Management from Northeastern University, and later a Juris Doctor degree from Franklin Pierce School of Law.

Lin began her professional career as an electrical engineer at RCA and then Digital Equipment Corporation. She later practiced as a Patent Attorney with WSGH Law in Boston and also served as a Patent Examiner with the United States Patent Office. Her career reflected her intellect, dedication, and lifelong love of learning.

She was a devoted member of Wesley United Methodist Church, where she played in the handbell choir and served on the financial committee. She volunteered for many years with the Sudbury Savoyards. Lin was an avid reader and enjoyed hiking, sailing, and jigsaw puzzles. She and her husband shared a deep love of travel and spent many years exploring the world together.

In addition to her husband Richard of Framingham (currently of Hudson), Linda is survived by her two daughters, Kirsten Chetwynd and her husband Brendon of Maynard, and Elizabeth Borchert and her husband Michael of Minneapolis, Minnesota; and her five cherished grandchildren, Rhiânnon, Elliot, Azron, October, and Calliope. She was predeceased by her sister, Ann Buldoc of Lawrence.

Funeral services will be private, and there are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Linda's memory to the American Heart Association.  All are invited to sign and share memories of her at the online guestbook at collinsfuneral.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln Street, Marlborough.