Robert J. Oleson

Robert “Bob” Oleson, 83, passed away April 1, 2025. Bob was born on September 6, 1941, to Roy and Anna (Turner) Oleson and was raised with strong values of dedication, service, and community.

After graduating from Palmyra High School, Bob attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he graduated with honors in 1963. He proudly served in the National Guard from 1963 to 1969, with active duty in Madison and Milwaukee. Bob married Kathy (Blasing), and together they built a life on the family farm in Palmyra, raising cash crops until his retirement.

Bob’s passion for agriculture was evident throughout his life. He was a tireless advocate for Wisconsin farmers, serving as Executive Director of the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association and the Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board. His leadership extended nationally as a member of the U.S. Feed Grains Council, the National Corn Growers Association Board, the National Corn Development Foundation, and as a founding director of the United Soybean Board. In 2007, Bob received the Honorary Recognition Award from the College of Ag and Life Sciences at the University of Wisconsin Madison.

Beyond his work in agriculture, Bob was deeply committed to his community. A lifelong member and trustee of the Palmyra United Methodist Church, he also dedicated several years to the Palmyra School Board. He was an active member of Kiwanis and a founding member of the Palmyra Historical Society.

Above all, Bob was devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathy (Blasing) Oleson; sons Dan (Karen) Oleson and David Oleson; daughter Bonnie Oleson; and brother John (Marlene) Oleson. Bob loved playing Euchre with his grandkids, Evan, Eric, and Emma. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Anna.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bob’s honor may be made to the Palmyra United Methodist Church or the Parkinson’s Foundation.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00AM on Monday, April 7, 2025 at the Palmyra United Methodist Church with Pastor Hyo-Won Park presiding. Visitation will take place from 9:00AM until the time of service at the church.

Gibson Family Funeral Homes of Palmyra and Eagle, WI is serving the family. To place an online condolence please visit gibsonfuneral.com