Gerald Edwin Oliver — Rochester

Gerald Edwin Oliver, 86, of Rochester, peacefully left this world Sunday, May 4, 2014, at Maple Manor Healthcare and Rehabilitation.

Gerald was born to Charles and Vena (Beers) Oliver on June 12, 1927, in Clarksville, Texas. He attended Ponca City High School, in Ponca City, Okla., and then enlisted in the United States Navy in 1945.He completed his specialty training before being stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he worked as a hospital corpsmen at the Tripler Army Medical Center. He then returned home in 1950 to complete his college education at Oklahoma A&M University. However, that same year he received orders to return, as the Korean War was underway. He was stationed in Oakland, Calif., where he worked at the Oak Knoll Naval Hospital. After being discharged in 1953, Gerald returned home to finish his schooling, earning his degree in business. He then began working at Phillip's Petroleum, and went on to become a salesman at Skelly Oil Company.Gerald was united in marriage to Mary Schultz on April 21, 1962, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Flandreau, S.D. They resided in Sioux Falls, S.D., for a few years where they were blessed with their daughter, Nancy. They then moved to Rochester where they made their home.

He was the hardest working man, running the Wood Motor Lodge for eight years alongside his wife. He greatly enjoyed being outside working in his garden, changing the oil in his cars and completing miscellaneous projects around the house. Gerald also enjoyed spending time with his family, telling countless stories about his time in the U.S. Navy. He was quite the character; his jokes, along with his infectious smile, will be greatly missed.

Gerald is survived by his daughter, Nancy Nelson (Dan) of Rochester; his two brothers, Jim Oliver (Marie) of Tulsa, Okla., and Kenneth Oliver (Mickey) of Tucson, Ariz.; his sister, Wanda Loving of Nashville, Tenn.; and his beloved grandchildren, Katie Nelson and Erik Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, and his parents, Charles and Vena.

A private graveside service will be held for immediate family at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the charity of your choice.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place N.W., Rochester MN 55901, 507-289-3600. ranfranzandvinefh.com