Freddie Oltmans

FREDDIE WILLIE OLTMANS was born to Fred and Minnie (Aeilts) Oltmans on August 25, 1922 in Rushmore, Minnesota where he was raised and received his education. Following his graduation from Rushmore High School he moved with his family to Luverne, Minnesota. He took a job at a local bread company. In 1942, Freddie enlisted in the US Navy where he served in WWII as an Electrician’s Mate, 1st Class. Upon his discharge, he returned home to Luverne where he worked as an electrician for McClure’s Electric. On June 15, 1948 he was united in marriage to Vera Hemme at her parents’ home near Hardwick, Minnesota. On June 26, 1949 he was baptized and confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church in Luverne. In the early 60’s, Freddie started his own business, Freddie’s Electric, which he later changed to Freddie’s Electric and Refrigeration. After he sold his business, he continued doing refrigeration work part-time. His wife preceded him in death on February 12, 1999. He continued to reside at his home. Freddie fell at his home and was admitted to the Royal C. Johnson VA Medical Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on June 3, 2013 where he died on Friday, July 12, 2013 at the age of 90 years, 10 months and 17 days.

Freddie was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Luverne where he was active in helping assemble the monthly newsletter. In his early years, he served as a Sunday school teacher. He was a member of the Dell Hogan American Legion Post #123 as well as the Rock County VFW Post #2757. He enjoyed traveling and camping. He especially loved spending time with his dog, Milo.

Freddie is survived by his children, Nicholas Oltmans and his wife Sharon of Littleton, Colorado, and Machelle Nolen and her husband Steve of Longmont, Colorado; three grandchildren, Thomas Oltmans, Bradley Buysee, and Justin Smith; seven great-grandchildren, Sheldon Trummer, Hannah Trummer, Nicholas Tyo, Jake Oltmans, Joshua Smith, Jessie Smith, and Kyla Smith; and his brother, Willie Oltmans of Lake Benton, Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vera; granddaughter, Angie Genella; two brothers; and one sister.