Wilbur Oleson

Wilbur R. Oleson, 89, passed away Aug. 23, 2017, at Schneidmiller Hospice House in Hayden. He was born May 18, 1928, to William and Viola Oleson in Faulkton, S.D. He moved to Idaho in 1935 with his family.

Wilbur worked at Kaiser Aluminum for 32 years retiring in 1982. On Sept. 8, 1969, he married Evelyn M. Lindquist and in the process added six children to his family. He was a true outdoorsman and the only thing he loved more than camping was his family. He was an avid fly fisherman and hunter who enjoyed spending time in the mountains with his wife and children. Wilbur was a kind and gentle man with a wonderful sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; one sister; son Larry Oleson and stepdaughter Ginger Card. He is survived by his beloved wife, Evelyn of Coeur d’Alene; son Tracy of Post Falls; and five step children, Geri Carman (Russ) of Glendive, Mont., Chet Lindquist (Jan) of Post Falls, Terry Lindquist (Cindy) of Coeur d’Alene, Ted Lindquist of Post Falls and Randy Lindquist of Kooskia. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and step grandchildren, Melani, Scott, Ron, Lisa, Michael, Steven, Brook, Justin, Jennifer, Robin, Brian, Aletha, Amy and Richard. Wilbur also leaves 26 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews including favorite nephew, Johnny Oleson.

The family would like to give special thanks to the wonderful people at Bestland Senior Living and Coeur d’Alene Health and Rehab. We are especially thankful for the nurses at the Schneidmiller House whose loving care made Wilbur’s last hours as comfortable as possible.

Per Wilbur’s request, there will not be a funeral service. The family celebrated his life at a private gathering.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to North Idaho Hospice Schneidmiller House.