Joseph Oliver's Obituary
Joe Oliver, 88, died February 15, 2004. He was born on September 17, 1915 and lived in Tacoma his entire life. After graduating from Lincoln High School in 1934, Joe worked at Washington Handle Company and became a union shop steward, while at the same time working towards taking the CPA exam. Joe had strong union commitments and support, and was very active in the Democratic Party. He was selected by Governor Rossellini to work for the state as an auditor for the Department of Labor and Industries, and remained there until he retired in 1981 after 24 years of service. Joe had continued to be active in the Democratic Party and became friends with many people including Senator Warren Magnussen, and Senator Henry Jackson. He was the chairman of his district and treasurer for many years.Joe enjoyed sports, playing baseball and football, and was an avid golfer; and early job he held, at the age of sixteen, was caddying at a local golf course. He followed sports, but always cared more how all the grandkids and great grandkids were doing on their teams and various activities. He also enjoyed playing the mandolin, growing vegetables in his garden, and especially the time spent with his wife and family at their mountain cabin. Joe said that the things he was most proud of in his life were his family and the privilege to go to school and receive a good education. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Robert, Rux, and Jimmy; and his sisters: Frances Tallariti, and Mary Stevens. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Muta; two daughters, Joanne Nugent, and Joy Myer; nine grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; 12 great great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.A memorial service will be held at noon, Saturday, February 21, 2004 in the Mountain View Valley Chapel.
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