Joseph John Olinger passed away Monday, Jan. 27, 2014, in Rogers Ark., after a brief illness. Joe was born Jan. 26, 1920, in Norman, Okla. to Chloe Fern (Ferrier) Olinger and Joseph Jackson Olinger. Cremation has taken place. A dual memorial service will be at a later date for Joe and his wife of 70 years, Imogene Mae Saar Olinger, who passed away in 2009.
Sergeant Joe proudly served in World War II in Italy and Germany with the 10th Mountain Division from 1942 to 1945. Honorably discharged, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Medal, EAME Medal and various other medals and service ribbons.
Joe was employed by Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Winfield, and Swift & Company, Kansas City, Kan. The Olinger family lived in Iola from 1949 to 1957.
Survivors are his daughter, L.J. (“Deanie”) Olinger, Leawood, and Rogers, Ark.; sons, Dan H. Olinger (Sue) and Douglas Olinger, Kansas City, Mo.; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Arrangements are by Benton County Funeral Home.
Memorial donations may be sent to St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, Backpack Program, 202 S. Walnut St., Iola, KS 66749 or the charity of your choice.
Joseph John Olinger
