Edward James Oliver Obituary
Edward James Oliver, known affectionately to family and friends as Ollie, passed away on April 30, 2026, in Omer, Michigan, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on November 10, 1955, in Detroit, Michigan, and lived a life marked by devotion, steady strength, and a warm sense of humor that touched everyone who knew him.
Ollie was a loving, kind, and funny man whose presence brought comfort and laughter to those around him. He carried himself with quiet dignity and a generous spirit, and he was the kind of person people could count on in good times and bad. His family and friends will remember him not only for the life he lived, but for the way he made others feel valued, supported, and loved.
He proudly served in the United States Army from 1976 to 1982, spending much of his service stationed in Germany in the Armory Department. His years in the Army reflected his sense of duty, discipline, and commitment to serving something greater than himself. Those who knew him understood that his strength was not only physical, but also rooted in character, loyalty, and perseverance.
After his military service, Ed continued a life of service when he was hired by the Michigan Department of Corrections in 2001. He dedicated nearly two decades to his work before retiring in 2020. Through the years, he earned the respect of colleagues and others who appreciated his dependability and steadfast nature. He approached his responsibilities with care and professionalism, and he took pride in doing his part well. Continuing with his sense of service and community, he ran for and was elected to the City Counsel and was also elected Mayor of the City of Omer.
Family was the center of Ed's life, and he treasured the people closest to him. He is survived by his wife, Sue Oliver, with whom he shared 43 loving years of marriage. He also leaves behind his daughter, Kristine Oliver, and the man who was like a son to him, Ray Schramm. Ed was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren, Anthony, Austin (Katlyn), Emily, Elexis, Ella, Amelia, and Andrew, and he was also blessed with a great-granddaughter, Berkeley. His grandchildren will always remember him as the strongest guy they have ever known, a loving grandfather who could always make them laugh and who gave them a sense of security and joy.
He is also survived by his brother, Joe (Debbie) Oliver, his sister, Judy (Chuck) Campbell, his sister-in-law's, June (Dave) Lee, Ruth (Dan) Raushi, Robin Oliver, and his brother-in-law, John (Tammy) Lowes. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward with love and gratitude. Ed's extended family was an important part of his life, and he valued the bonds that connected them through the years.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Betty (Schuman) Oliver, his brother, Harry Oliver, and his mother-in-law, Marian Lowes-Yenna. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.
In his free time, Ed enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time with family and friends. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially when surrounded by the people he loved most. Football was another favorite pastime, and he cheered faithfully for the Lions, while Kristine rooted for the Cowboys. Together, they enjoyed the lively tradition of supporting both teams and sharing in the excitement, laughter, and friendly rivalry that came with it. Ollie could also be counted on to snatch food from unattended plates whether it be deviled eggs or cheese if your plate was left unattended something would be missing.
Those who knew Ollie will remember a man who was loving in his relationships, kind in his actions, and funny in the way he brought lightness to everyday moments. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion to family, service to his country, and a life lived with heart. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he gave will remain with his family and friends always.
Honoring Ed's wishes cremation has taken place with a Celebration of Life to be scheduled at a later date.
