Francis Thomas ‘Bud’ Oleson, 89, of Helena, passed away on January 1, 2011 at the VA Hospital at Ft. Harrison in Helena, MT.
On October 26, 1921, Bud was born at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Havre to William and Dora Oleson. He went to grade school in Landusky then returned to Havre, where he attended 2 years of High School.
Bud came to Helena in 1939 and worked for L.P. Barney Construction as an Apprentice Carpenter. In 1940, Bud joined the National Guard. He served in the 163rd Infantry Unit, part of the 41st Infantry Division and was honorably discharged on August 15, 1945. The 163rd was a part of the Occupational Force in Japan and after Pearl Harbor; the 163rd consisted solely of Montanans. He fought in the New Guineas jungles and the Pacific Theater, Philippines.
After being discharged, Bud returned to Montana and went to work for Standard Oil, building the first Gas Stations in Montana. He was instrumental in building the first television broadcasting antenna. He injured his leg as a result of a fall during construction and subsequently became part of the first TV news broadcast in Helena.
In 1945, Bud married Betty Baird, later they divorced. They had two children, Doreen Filson and Jerry ‘Butch’ Oleson. Doreen and Butch reside in Helena. On August 27, 1960 He married Zona Raymond. They had a son, Scott Oleson who resides in Billings. Zona had two children, Debbie and Vern Raymond, they also reside in Helena.
Bud was an avid hunter and fisherman in his younger years. He enjoyed history and reading about Montana’s history. He and Zona owned and operated Bud and Zona’s Bar at Canyon Ferry Lake until the late 1970’s when they retired.
Survivors include his wife Zona; their children and spouses; grandchildren and great grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 6, 2010 at Retz Funeral Home Chapel. Burial with Military Honors will follow the service at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Ft. Harrison. A reception will follow the burial at the Service Club on the Fort. To offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Bud, please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
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Mrs. Carol E. Bonner says
To each of you, I am sending hugs and thoughts of all the times you were so wonderful to Tom, Tamara and me ~ my heart is with you today, Zona ~ I lit a candle for Bud yesterday & today am having moments of quietness for you.
Love ‘ya,
Carol
Shelly & Blaze Wharton says
We are sorry for your lose Thinking of you & yours, we’re there for you if you need.
Linda (Mook) Scheid says
Zona & Family, I’m sorry to hear about Bud. When I saw his picture, I didn’t even need to read the name. It’s been many many years, but I would know that smile anywhere! I have lots of good memories of “Bud & Zona’s” that include my parents too. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Linda
Sandi (Coyle) Benson says
Doreen, Debbie, Zona – We were sorry to hear that Bud passed. Know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. May the days ahead bring you peace and understanding.
Charmon Graveley-Hansen says
Zona,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I remember Bud always giving us Graveley kids a hard time when you would let us go in the kitchen at the bar and get our ice cream cones. He will be missed by many.
Joe Moore says
Scott,
I’m thinking of you and your mom. I know how tough this is, everyday it will get easier. Take care.
Allen Stenhjem/Glenda says
Bud will be missed by his many many friends and family esp Zona
God Bless
Valerie Nelson Jorgenson says
Scott, Zona and family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. What wonderful memories we all have. We still call the bar Bud and Zona’s!
Take good care,
Val
Jestina says
Debbie, I know the pain you & your family are going thru. Remember to always think about the happy, funny or crazy things that you were able to share in. It does get easier. Thoughts to you and your family. Love ya, Jes