Obituary of Donald H. Oliver

Donald H. Oliver left his earthly home Sunday, July 9, 2017 in Gladwin, MI. A lifetime resident of Billings Township in Gladwin county, he loved the farm that was his home. His passion for all things that grow was on his mind in his final times as he asked about the weather and how are the crops. After leaving active farming to Greg Leuenberger "his farmer", he could still be seen for hours mowing his lawn well into his 90's, or watching the corn and beans grow behind his home. He could always be found with multiple copies of Successful Farmer within arms reach. Don loved flowers and was always surrounded by hanging baskets he cared for, or flowers within sight. Don was a lifetime farmer, horse lover, and raised registered Hereford cattle. He went through a time as a boat lover and water skier attempting to ski the straits of Mackinaw, and a Snow Bird in Florida proudly cultivating his flowers. All this, while spending 37 years working at Dow Chemical, retiring in 1978. Don was born in Billings Township to Jay Elmer Oliver and Anna Catherine (Colbeck) Oliver, the second of seven children. He married Elizabeth (Betty) McCrary on March 25, 1939. She preceded him in death in 1994. He is survived by two children, Penelope (Russ) Davis of Clare Michigan, and Gary (Jackie) Oliver of Hope, Michigan, Five grandchildren, Greg (Cindy) Davis, Brent (Debora) Davis, Stacy (Michael) Flannery, Amy (Nathan) Drake, Jonathon (Melynda) Oliver, Twelve great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Don is also survived by brothers Douglas (Fran) of Midland, MI, and John (Ann) of Redondo Beach, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Doris (Peter) Maxwell, brothers Edwin, Robert, and Earl, and great grandson Jonathon Oliver. A celebration of life will be held at the Oliver Farm at 5089 M-30, Beaverton, MI. at 11:00 am on August 5, 2017. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Heartland Hospice Care, 564 Progress Street, West Branch, MI 48661 to sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com All sympathy store items must be sent directly to the family home.