Columbus/Fall River – James Franklin Oliver, age 98, passed away on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at The Meadows of Fall River Assisted Living.  He was born on May 10, 1925, in Columbus, the son of Rodney and Mildred (Lobeck) Oliver.

Jim had a life-long interest in agriculture and the raising of animals.  From his first goat and wagon to his working pair of Belgian draft horses, he loved being on the land.  He participated in Future Farmers of America at Columbus High School; and after graduation in 1942, he worked on numerous farms throughout the area.  In 1956, he purchased a dairy farm on Moriah Road that he operated for more than 30 years.  In his free time, he raised and showed Arabian horses and served the community through the Columbus Lions Club.

On April 10, 1994, Jim was married to Rose Ann (Oechsner) Rake.  In his retirement, he raised Red Angus cattle, enjoyed antique auctions with Rose Ann and spending time with family and friends.

Jim is survived by his nephew, Rodney; nieces Jill (Jack) Jackson and Julie (Ron) Scalissi, sister-in-law Shirley Fogo, step children David (Ann) Rake, Karen (Mike) Derr, Karol Larson, Gregg (David) Rake, step daughter in law, Diane Rake; 3 grandnieces; 1 grandnephew; 12 step-grandchildren; 2 great-grand nephews; and 10 step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, brothers Charles and Donald, niece Cathleen, and stepson Tom Rake.

A memorial service will be held at Jensen Funeral & Cremation, 248 S Ludington Street, Columbus, WI on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:30 a.m. until the service begins at 11 a.m.  The burial will follow the service at Columbus Hillside Cemetery.

Donations may be made in his memory to The American Cancer Society

We encourage you to share your online condolences with Jim's family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com