Obituary: Jeff "J.O." Oien

Jeff "J.O." Oien, 70, of Carlton went out listening to his trademark top-of-the-line headphones surrounded by family. Derek, Kendra, and Kyrra joined him on his final night to swap stories with excessive laughter and many tears. His brothers Wes and Greg, and sisters Vicki and Ginny were there for him at every moment to ensure he would not leave without knowing how much he was loved. He died Aug. 7, 2022, after a hard-fought battle against multiple myeloma.

Jeffrey M. Oien was born Aug. 11, 1951, to Delbert and Jaquolyn Oien. He graduated Class of 1969 from Carlton High School. Jeff ventured out, became a ski bum living in a van with his dog Barabbas, and came back to settle down at Chub Lake with Kim Kyllonen in 1982. He was a Class A journeyman electrician, starting out at Thompson Electric, a company originally owned by his grandfather, and later developed a passion for running large-scale industrial and civic projects. Jeff was a proud member of IBEW Local 242 and negotiated for labor benefits over many years. He retired from Hunt Electric in 2020.

Jeff's dogs always had a soft spot in his heart. His children were taught to respect others and live fulfilling lives. He was so proud of the adults they have become. He surrounded himself with upstanding people, and a few questionable characters. He was an optimist who claimed the Vikings would win the Super Bowl before every season. He loved hunting, fishing and good music. His brother Wes helped him continue these activities and managed his care to the end. Now his family and friends miss him like crazy, but we are happy that he is at peace.

Jeff was preceded in death by Deb (Fran) Oien; Jaquie (Jerry) Shogren; his grandparents Curly and Iris Oien, and Jo and George Jernberg; and his nephew William Wesley Oien. Jeff is survived by his son Dr. Derek (Caleb) Oien of Boston, daughter Kendra (Theo) Oien of Colorado Springs, and daughter Staff Sgt. Kyrra Oien of Suffolk, England; fur buddy Hoopie; siblings Greg (Kay) Oien, Ginny (John) Vernon, Vicki (Dean) Kerttula and Wes (Mary) Oien; and nine nieces and nephews and their children.

A celebration of life was held Aug. 10 at Nelson Funeral Care. Messages to the family can be sent to [email protected]. Charitable donations in Jeff's name can be made to the American Cancer Society or the Mayo Clinic.

Pine Knot News August 12, 2022