Joseph “Joe” John James Olheiser
August 4, 1933-July 4, 2018
Joe was born in New Salem, ND. When he was 7 years old, his family moved to East Helena. After his school years, Joe was drafted into the US Army to serve in the Korean War and was in active duty during that time. Afterwards, Joe spent 31 years as an employee of Associated Foods. He married Gretchen Huber Nelson in Helena on October 18, 1980.
Joe was a natural athlete. Along with his wife, Gretchen, they bicycled from north Germany to the south. In the U.S.A. the couple often joined Gretchen’s father, “Shorty” Huber. Together they explored the Pacific Northwest USA and Canada, pedaling over the mountain chains and across the vast valleys – from the mountains to the Pacific Ocean; across bridges with rushing rivers below – rain or shine.
Another of Joe’s Passions was baseball. Year after year, he and Gretchen rarely missed a Senators or Brewers game in Helena. They occasionally joined busloads of enthusiasts to games in the Pioneer League cities. In the winter, when the mountains were covered in snow, he, along with Gretchen, took to the slopes.
In between athletic activities, Joe unselfishly helped many neighbors up and down the block. Silently, he took care of those in need of help.
Joe is survived by his wife, Gretchen, and his four children from previous marriages: Mike and George Nelson, Heidi Torchia, Debbie Garringer; his sister, Gladys Harvey; several grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Joe will be remembered as a loving father, husband, and friend – proud of his country and at peace with himself.
Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 20th, at St Peter’s Episcopal Church, 511 N. Park Ave. Burial with military honors will follow at Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Ft Harrison. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 511 N. Park Ave, Helena, MT 59601 or The Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Joe.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday July 20, 2018
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the service
Friday July 20, 2018
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
Following the reception
Friday July 20, 2018
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
3550 Hero's Ln
Ft. Harrison, Montana 59636
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday July 20, 2018
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the service
Friday July 20, 2018
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
Following the reception
Friday July 20, 2018
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
3550 Hero's Ln
Ft. Harrison, Montana 59636
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Rita Tenneson says
Dear Gretchen – I am so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. May the happy times you shared bring you comfort. I enjoyed knowing Joe and spending time with the two of you. My prayers are with you and your family. Rita Tenneson
Marlene Hughes says
Joe was an important part of the Helena brewers booster club. Not seeing him and Gretchen in their seats this year is sad. They love baseball.
He will be missed. Our love goes out to Joe’s family and Gretchen
Marlene and Dave Hughes
Val Flansaas says
Grethen we are thinking of you at this time. Joe will be greatly missed.
Holding you and family in our prayers.
Earl Fred and Val Flansaas
matt mosbrucker says
Gretchen++My condolences to you and your family. Cousin, Matt Mosbrucker