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Harry Oldenburg, 99, New Richmond, WI, passed peacefully August 21, 2024. Harry was born May 26, 1925, to Henry and Ida Oldenburg of Hewitt, MN. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in March, 1945, and was stationed in the Philippines as part of the 608 Military Police unit guarding Japanese prisoners. He was honorably discharged in December, 1946.
On December 19, 1948, he married Georgianna Bettcher, who he had met in high school while visiting family in her hometown. The newlyweds began their 70 year marriage in Milwaukee where Harry worked for Harley Davidson and S.K. Williams as an electroplater and also drove truck for American Motor Corps. There they made lifelong friends and welcomed their three eldest children, Rodney, Terry, and Sharon.
After moving to New Richmond in 1957, the couple found their church home at St. Luke’s and welcomed their three youngest children, Susan, Patty, and Pete. Harry owned a portable feed mill for nine years. He then went to work for the U.S. Postal Service where he remained for 21 years before retiring. After retiring, Harry worked part time at St. Croix Casino.
Harry enjoyed an active lifestyle with many successful hobbies including bowling, horseshoe pitching, fishing, playing cards, hunting, and watching the Brewers and Packers. He also enjoyed volunteer driving for Westfield’s Hospital.
A steadfast man, Harry will be remembered fondly for his love of family, mischievous smirk, and innumerable trophies and hats. He was a devoted patriarch who will forever be deeply missed.
Survived by children: Terry (Darrell) Anderson, Sharon Oldenburg, Susan (Mitch) Kittel, Patty (Rick) Lombardo, Pete (Shauna) Oldenburg. Twelve grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Arlene Oldenburg, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Preceded in death by wife Georgianna Oldenburg, siblings Margaret (Bill) Lehmkuhl, Marie (Fred) Greenwaldt, Dorothy (Harry) Rach, George (Rosie) Oldenburg, Bertha (John) Sundby, John Oldenburg and Ida (Walter) Johnson, son Rodney Oldenburg, daughter-in-law Kay Oldenburg and grandson Brandon Wilson.
A Memorial Service was held on August 28, 2024 at 11 am at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church 365 W River Drive New Richmond, WI with visitation one hour prior to service and a luncheon following at the Butler Harmon American Legion Post 80 1260 Wall Street New Richmond, WI. Interment was in the New Richmond Cemetery. Special thank you to Our House Senior Living/Memory Care and Lakeview Hospice staff for their wonderful care. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
8 Comments
Deepest sympathy to all of his family. Prayers to you all!
Harry will be thought of and greatly missed. He was a wonderful bowling promoter and organizer for both local and National tournaments. The first one I attended with Harry was in Las Vegas, the middle of June. Many happy memories.
My condolences, you will be missed Great Uncle Harry. I loved bumping into you when I was in town. Say Hi to my Grandpa and Grandma for me. You were loved.
Sue & Mitch and all the Oldenburg family. Our condolences on the loss of your dad, grandpa, great grandpa and all other titles Harry held. Harry’s ending at age 99 is remarkable. I am sure in hindsight, those 99 years went by with incredible speed. An amazing long life full of accomplishment were left to fill your minds and reflect on so many good moments. He is home with your Mom, that is especially sweet. I know through Jesse & Sara, Harry was not only Grandpa, he was FRIEND. May all your days ahead be filled with constant laughter and love! Brian & Scott, Sara & Jesse’s uncles.
I so enjoyed your dad while playing blackjack at the Health Center. He was a good card player. It seemed like, as the dealer, I was never to good at giving him good cards. We’d joke about it!! He was a cutie. He will be missed.
What a GREAT UNCLE and a Godly man. Harry was also a great horseshoe pitcher and bowler. Took a lot to beat him and even then, he taught humility in losing and grace in winning. Thank you for the fine example and lifelong lessons. You are loved and always cherished. Harry and Jo can’t wait to see you both again.
Thoughts and prayers to all of the family during this difficult time
Deepest condolences! RIP Harry I know you and John are now together pitching horseshoes.
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