RIP: Howard D. Olsaver, 1939-2011

 Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

 Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

Our friend Howard died on April 11, 2011 at the age of 72.  His memorial service was held at the American Legion Post 45 in La Pine, Oregon last Sunday, May 1.

Born in Vermont in 1939, Howard married young and has a daughter named Laurie.  Leading a colorful life, Howard and his wife divorced and Howard lost touch with his family.  Eventually, he made his way to the West Coast and ended up moving to La Pine.  There, he met his wife Jodie and her two children, Becky and Brett.  They were married for around ten years, before Jodie died of lung cancer.

Cary had known Howard for years, and Howard worked for La Pine Redi Mix way back when, and then more recently as our security guy and "Office Manager".  Howard was a good friend to us, and he also was known around our house as "Uncle Howard", as he house sat for us and watched the dogs when we were gone.  By trade, Howard was a plumber, maintenance man and also did excavation work.

Over the past year, Howard's health declined and he developed lung cancer in addition to his COPD.  He moved to the Prairie House assisted living complex in La Pine.  Howard was a member of the American Legion and drove their van for them, and also helped by answering the phone when he was there.

Howard's memorial service was well attended. We are all going to miss you, Howard.  I have posted a few pictures of his family here, but please check out the slide show for many more.

Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

The pictures that Becky and I pulled together.  We are sending some of them to Howard's sister in Vermont.

Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

Becky and her sweet family.

 Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

Cary visits with Jodie's brother Bob, and his wife Joyce.

Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

This is Mike, his friend who drove 

Howard to his radiation treatments.

 Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

My best friend husband Cary and me.

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