Jean E. Oliver

Jean Ellen Oliver (nee Anderson) was called home to be with her Heavenly Father on October 7, 2023, at the age of 90, at Mayo Clinic Health Systems in Eau Claire, WI. She was born on March 21, 1933, in Eau Claire, WI, to Earl and Lydia Anderson.

While attending high school she worked part-time at the State Theatre in Eau Claire, using some of her income to supplement family resources. Upon high school graduation in 1951, she accepted a position at the telephone company in Eau Claire traveling to schools in Northern WI educating the students on the “new” rotary telephones.

The youth fellowship group at Grace Lutheran Church is where Jean & Russ met. The two started dating and were married on July 26, 1958. Russ’ career in Education led them to settle in Stevens Point, WI where they raised their four children. Jean stayed home with the kids until they were in school.  She then began working as a teacher’s aide at PJ Jacobs Junior High and remained in this position for 15 years, until retirement in 1989.

Jean & Russ’ retirement led them to live at their family home on Lake Wissota in Chippewa Falls, WI.  Gatherings at the lake with her friends, family, and Grandchildren were some of her happiest times. No family gathering would be complete without the cherished family pets as far as she was concerned.   Retiring also gave them the opportunity to travel all around the world. One of her favorite trips was to Africa, and their safaris in Kenya & Tanzania, largely due to her love of animals. Visiting friends & family throughout the US, especially their yearly visits to Florida, were some of her most treasured memories.

Jean was known for her friendly and outgoing personality. She had a deep love for people and made countless friends throughout her life. She was always willing to lend an ear or strike up a conversation, even with strangers. Laughing and having fun came easily for Jean. Fun seemed to follow her wherever she went. She loved social outings with her family and friends, anything from simply going to lunch to her activities with the Red Hat Society and even the occasional trips to the casino with her roll of nickels. Her witty sense of humor and silliness was captivating to anyone who knew her.

Her steadfast devotion to her church, wherever they lived throughout the years, was very evident, especially at Our Saviour’s. She was heavily involved in various church groups and loved volunteering at the local hospitals & nursing homes.

Jean had a passion for cooking and had an extensive collection of recipes and cookbooks. She enjoyed many hobbies throughout the years including curling, bowling, family camping trips, quilting, knitting, and shopping - especially at flea markets. Her love of music graced her life with joy. She loved playing the piano and singing. That passion was passed on to her children and grandchildren and continues in them today.

Jean was a beloved wife to Russ for 65 years and a loving mother to her 4 children, Cindi (Jeff) Early of Illinois, Dan of Chippewa Falls, Karen (Roque) Casasnovas of Seminole FL., Rebecca (Joe) Sterr of Chippewa Falls. She was also a cherished grandmother to Kendra, Mackenzie, Brock, and Cooper (Paige).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl & Lydia; her sister, Luann; and her daughter, Karen.

Jean will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She was a beautiful soul who carried light in her smile and her love. May her memory be a blessing to us all.

In lieu of flowers, Jean would like contributions to Feed my People food bank, or Our Saviour’s Lutherans Church Women’s or Quilters groups.

The celebration of life will be at 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1300 Mansfield Street, Chippewa Falls with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Rev. Karen Behling will be officiating.