Obituary: Jackie Eugene (Gene) Oliver

Gene Oliver was born June 14, 1955, in Wasco, to parents Jack and Nelda. He passed away peacefully on Sept. 16, 2023, after bravely battling many health issues.

From childhood and throughout his life, Gene enjoyed playing sports, hunting, fishing and truly living life with family and friends.

After graduating from high school, Gene attended Taft Junior College and Cal State Stanislaus to pursue a degree in education, as well as continuing his baseball career. He was very instrumental in helping Stanislaus State to win the Division III World Series titles in 1976 and 1977, earning all-tournament team honors. Gene was inducted into the Cal State Stanislaus Hall of Fame in 2005.

Upon graduation, he coached baseball at Taft High School, as well as Cuesta College, being a positive influence to many student athletes.

In 1983, Gene transitioned to a 32-year career in the oil industry that included Mobil Oil, Aera Energy and Venoco Inc., where he retired in 2015 due to health issues.

Gene was a very talented individual and lived life to the fullest, his way. He leaves to mourn his passing mother Nelda Dial, brothers Kenny and Dustin Oliver, an extended family that includes stepdaughter Reina, stepbrother Ron, stepsisters Pam, Connie and Debbie, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.

Special thanks to Joyful Living Care and their entire staff, and Dr. Bertiz and staff. You all helped to fill his last years with dignity and grace.

Pallbearers will be Denny Carender, Troyce Leatherwood, George Douglas, Joe Delarosa, John Simmons and Dustin Oliver.

Graveside services will be held Friday, Sept. 29, at 2 p.m. at the Wasco Memorial Cemetery. Immediately following there will be a celebration of life at the Wasco Elks Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Gene's name to Wasco Toys for Tigers, 1618 Sunset, Wasco 93280.