Oliver Newton Price

Oliver Newton Price returned to his Heavenly Father on January 14, 2024.  He was born June 25, 1931 in Snelling, Merced County, California to Laura Marie Bucklin Price and Henry Harrison Price. His father passed away just before his 4^th birthday, leaving his mother to raise 4 sons. Not having much, he learned to work hard and the value of things. At 17 years old he joined the army, his mother had to give permission since he was under age. He was in the 11^th Airborne, 187^th regiment, as a paratrooper. When the Korean War started, his regiment was sent to Japan then on to Korea. He was combat wounded and received a Purple Heart, and a battalion unit citation with 4 bronze stars. While he served in the Honor Guard, he participated in numerous ceremonies including the dedication of the United National Cemetery in Pusan Korea. He was also assigned special duties guarding the General's house and the war map room. After the military, he worked at Hill Air Force Base where he met the love of his life, Josie Malas. They dated for a year, then eloped on August 1, 1953 to Elko, Nevada. They were blessed to have over 68 years together on earth, and now they are reunited together again.

They came from different religious backgrounds and decided to study both religions together. After much study, Oliver baptized Josie as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They went “all in” as faithful members serving until the end.  Oliver held many callings, including Bishop, High Councilor, Scout Master, Temple Ordinance worker and Stake Missionary. As a High Councilor he served with the Young Adults in the Kearns Stake where he was a great example and influenced many. He loved our Savior Jesus Christ and was always sharing his testimony. Even after his 92^nd birthday he bore his testimony every Fast Sunday. He knew there is eternal life after this mortal life, and that families are forever. In their late 70’s he and Josie served as senior missionaries in the Knoxville, Tennessee Mission.  They loved the people there and made lifetime friendships with those they served.

Oliver loved the outdoors. He loved water skiing with the family and always invited others to join in the fun as well.  He would ski around the lake and when the boat came to drop him off, he would always say, “One more time!” He was a great hunter and could always spot the deer first. He would go snow skiing and take his grandsons up with him and this was something they will always treasure. He was a great swimmer and continued to swim throughout his life. He loved working in his yard and growing fruit trees.  His prized walnut tree won him many blue ribbons at the Utah State fair. He loved to travel, see new places and meet new people. He was kind to all and loved to be of service. He was quick to help anyone and everyone.

His favorite things were his family, his church, and his country (and ice cream). He would always gather his family in a circle, then remind them, “everyone in this circle is loved and your Heavenly Father loves you also”.  He touched many lives. He was loved and admired; he will be missed so very much.

He was preceded in death by his sweetheart, Josie, son Richard, his Parents and three brothers.  He is survived by his daughter Diane (Terrell Kerby), sons, David (Elena), Dan (Carrie), Ray (Melinda). He has 14 adoring grandchildren and over 30 great-grandchildren.