"So sorry to hear about Kevin's passing. Even though I was the "little squirt," I will always remember the stop at the Oltmann's house on the ole LCHS bus route. My, how time marches on....May God be with you."
In loving memory of
Kevin Oltmanns
October 12, 1964 - February 6, 2011
Kevin Gene Oltmanns "Shade Tree" was born on October 12, 1964, in Akron, Iowa to Wendell and Wanda (Gabel) Oltmanns. He was baptized and later confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church in Craig, Iowa. He received his education from Le Mars Community Schools and graduated in 1983. After high school, Kevin attended Auctioneer School in Mason City, Iowa in 1984.
On December 10, 1988, Kevin was united in marriage to Sally Alesch at the Holy Name Catholic Church in Marcus, Iowa. This marriage was blessed with one son, Brett. Kevin worked at the Sioux City Stockyards for Brown-Goff-Raby Commission Firm, member of the Sioux City Stockyards Exchange from 1984 until 1996. Kevin and Sally then moved to Windom, Minnesota where Kevin worked at Heinold Hog Market in Windom as a Livestock Buyer/Seller Manager.
Kevin passed away suddenly on Sunday afternoon, February 6, 2011 at the Windom Area Hospital at the age of 46.
Kevin was a past board member for the Windom Youth Hockey Association. He spent countless hours donating his time to fundraising to keep the program going. He was also a very active member of the Windom Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Kevin was a sports fanatic, as he loved the Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Wild, Colorado Avalanche, and the Nebraska Cornhuskers Football and Baseball teams. He enjoyed watching his son Brett, involved in sports throughout the years, especially hockey and baseball. Kevin played Fast pitch softball from 1980 to 1992 for the Craig Cubs and Hinton Merchants, where he was a pitcher. He also enjoyed watching his nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends participate in their activities. During the summer he enjoyed spending time at the lake, fishing, and visiting with friends. He enjoyed charcoal grilling, which he was very proud of and loved to share the food with others. Kevin will be remembered as a Ford & John Deere man! He loved to travel and see the country. He was a great listener and could turn a bad day into a good day. Kevin always had a joke or story to tell. He loved his family and friends.
Kevin is survived by his loving wife, Sally Oltmanns of Windom; one son, Brett Oltmanns and his special friend, Sami O'Hara, of Bemidji; parents, Wendell and Wanda Oltmanns of Le Mars, IA; one brother, Mark Oltmanns and his wife, Deb, of Akron, IA; grandmother, Loris Heeren of Le Mars, IA; mother-in-law, Carol Alesch of Marcus, IA; one sister-in-law, Donna Estephan of Katy, TX; four brother-in-law's, Joe Alesch and his wife, RaeAnne, of Marcus, IA; Pat Alesch of Marcus, IA; Mike Alesch and his wife, Brenda, of Melvin, IA; and Marty Alesch and his good friend, Jill Plagman, of Marcus, IA; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Gene Gabel, J. Henry Oltmanns, and Amanda Oltmanns; father-in-law, Donald Alesch; uncle, Arlan Oltmanns; aunt, JoAnn Oltmanns; and nephew, Kyle Jon Oltmanns.
Blessed be the memory of Kevin Gene Oltmanns.
Tributes
"Sally & family - So sorry for your loss. "
"Sally: Roger and I were so sorry to hear about Kevin. We always had a good time with both of you at the many Marcus Class of 83' Reunions. I also enjoyed visiting with Kevin at the LCHS 83' Reunions. You will be in our thoughts and prayers."
"Sally, Brett, Wanda & Wendall - My thoughts are with you and family and Kevin's many, many friends. I have wonderful memories playing with and against Kevin in a sport he truly loved and enjoyed. Our fast-pitch softball community lost a great player, advocate and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you."
"Sally & Brett: Mike and I are saddened with the loss of Kevin. So many great memories we will have of him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time."
"Sally and Brett, We are so sorry to hear of your loss, you have our deepest condolenses. Kevin was a joy and a lot of fun to work with. He will be deeply missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. "
"Wanda and Loris, So sorry for your loss. Sandra"
"Our condolence to your families on your loss. You are in our prayers at this time. Fred, Shirley, Eric and Matt Gronemeyer "
"Sally and Bret, we are so sorry about your loss. Kim, Tyler, Amanda and I have great memories of Kevin. There are very few people in life that seem to always be smiling or have a joke or brighten someone else's day and Kevin certainly was one of them! Our prayers are with you. "
"As a classmate to Kevin he was taken too young but there must be a greater plan for him. I had a great conversation with Kevin as we were planning the class reunion a couple years ago. We just got caught up in everything that was happpening in our lives, I think we could have talked for hours if we allowed it. My heart goes out to your family, you are in my prayers. "
"As a fellow '83 graduate, so sorry to hear about Kevin! Wow, way too young and fun to check out. May God comfort the family!! "
"I was saddened to hear of the passing of a classmate. I visited some with Kevin at our last class reunion. He was always a nice guy. I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for you all and even more with the loss of your mom, Sally. May God give you all the strength to get through these very sad times."
"Dear Sally & Brett, We are so sad to hear the news of Kevin's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. If you need anything please give Ken a call. We will be back in Iowa March 15th. Take care of yourself. Love, Ken & Kate"
"I am shocked and saddened to learn of Kevin's passing. He will always be a special member of the Sioux City Stockyards family. Shade Tree had a heart of gold and he was a true professional who worked hard for farmers. My favorite memory of Shade Tree was when he arranged for my slow pitch softball team (the Stockyards Pork Bellies) to play his fast pitch softball team in a double-header (one slow pitch game and one fast pitch game) at the field in Craig, Iowa. We had a blast (of course beer and burgers were involved, too)! Shade Tree threw BB's - he was a heck of a pitcher. More importantly, he was a great person, family man, and community supporter. The loss of this gentle giant will be felt by many including his friends at the Yards."
"Sally and family, May God continue to hold you in the palm of his hand and help all of you to get through this most difficult time. Sending our love and sympathy."
"Sally & Brett- Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. Knowing your whole family has been a blessing. Just wish there was something we could do to lighten your load. God Bless."
"Sally and Family, our prayers and thoughts are with you. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Gail and Tony Hulm"
"Sally & Brett: Words cannot express the sorrow at this time, let family & friends be your support system for now. You are in out thoughts and Prayers. "
"Sally and Brett I am so sorry to hear of Kevin's passing! I will always remember you guys living across the street from us in Sioux City. We have a lot of memories of you guys as neighbors. May you hold all the wonderful memories of Kevin in your heart and know that he will ALWAYS be watching over you! You are in my thoughts and prayers!"
"I have lost track of Kevin (Tank) since High School, but so sad to see a fellow classmate die so young. My thoughts and prayers are with his family!!!"
"Sally and Brett i am so sorry to hear about your lost. I remember hauling pigs out of Heinold. I remember going to Heinold and Kevin would always have something funny to say or he would always have a smile on his face. Kevin would always give me grief and say "There's Madison, the pig hauler!!" He will be missed by man."
"To all the Oltmanns families, you're in our thoughts and prayers. Kevin was such a nice guy."
"to Kevins entire family: my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Its been great to work with Kevin over the past ten years. Rest in Peace"
"Sally and Brett Sorry to hear about Kevins passing. We were just getting to know you and had alot of great times on your deck. Kevin was really good at grilling and taught John alot. We will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."
"Sal and Brett~ Love being sent, we will see you on Thursday. If his heart could have pumped kindness he'd have lived forever. I will upload some more pics tonight. We love you! See ya in a mile and a half....."
"Sally & Brett and Family The short time I got to know Kevin he was a very happy man. Kevin seam to live life to the fullest. Sorry to here about your lose. Your family will always be in our prayers. "
"Rest in peace, Kevin."
"Sally & Brett, Sorry about to hear about your loss. I never got to know Kevin very well. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Mark Reif"
"Sally, We are so sorry for your loss. Such a shock. Lots of good times were had during the old softball times. They say time heals all, he will be remembered by many. He was a great guy!"
"The first words I would describe Kevin as, is...sweet, kind, thoughtful and giving. I approached him for figure skating donations from years past, and he instantly would say yes to helping our club. He always had a look on his face of ''glad to see you!'' I can't imagine a mean bone in that man's body at all. His kind, giving heart was as big as his build. Geof and I want to extend our deepest sympathies to you Sal and Brett. May God and all his glory and promise of Heaven comfort you at this difficult time."
"Sally, Brett, Wendell, Wanda and Family - How special Kevin was. So very sorry about the loss. His laughter, smile and love will be greatly missed. When someone we love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure. Keeping you in our prayers. Mark, Susy and Family"
"You are all in our prayers. Kevin was always a great person. Although I haven't seen him in years I'll always remember growing up together and having fun. God Bless."
"To all of Kevin?s family & friends, We send our deepest sympathy and healing thoughts. We have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Kevin for many years and we will miss him greatly. May peace be with you all. Sincerely, The Heinold Group in Atkinson "
"Sally and Brett, We are so sorry for your loss. Cherish all the memories you have and may they help ease the pain. You are in our thoughts and prayers."
"Kevin, you were a good soul. My prayers for your family, you will always be remembered, by your friends at Heinhold, Tyson and everyone else who you touched in friendship. God bless you and your family. Mike Christensen and Shari O'Bannon"
"Sally, So sorry for your lost and Brents to,Just thinking of all the times we with to Bob Roe's agter school and the laughs we had at lunch time 1 time when Keivn came and all we did laugh way to funny.My thoughts are with you and your son. God Bless "
"We are so sorry to hear about Kevin !!! We have many many years of great memories to remember Kevin--- all the years at the Stockyards !! Kevin & Eric now those 2 were gonna be trouble when they walked in the Silver Steer bar !!! After the Stockyards closing we still had the wonderful opportunity to talk to Kevin everyday here @ Verschoor Meats.... Rest in Peace friend you made the world a much better place by being in it. Mike Benson & Kelly Boyle ( Verschoor Meats)"
"Sally and Brett, We are saddened by the news of Kevins passing. What a great guy he was, we just starting getting to know you and we have some great memories from the lake already. Kevin had a way a making the conversations on the deck memorable. "
"Sally and Brett, we find it hard to believe that Keven has passed away. Curt remembers many good times with him down at the SC yards. You will have to dwell on the wonderful memories you have shared as a family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, as well as with Kevin's parents, brother and family. Love, Curt and Betty"
"Sally so sorry that Kevin passed away. I remember when you came to town and I helped you get your home. Your taught Lisa Johnson life guarding. She is my granddaughter. YOu ande your family are in our prayers. Stan and Clara Johnson"
"Sally and Brett, we are deeply saddened and shocked to hear about Kevin. We had many good conversation with Kevin, on your deck at the lake and considered him a great friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Kevin will be missed."
"So many good beer drinking memories"
"Sally, Brett, Wendell, Wanda, Mark and family I am so sorry to hear about Kevin. He was a very special person. I will never forget when Sally and Kevin came to Kansas City with Paul and Becky for a chiefs game. Kevin had to call me and invite to have a beer with them. Of course there also alot of laughs with the beer. You are in my thoughts and prayers"
"Sally and Brett, We are so sorry to hear about Kevin. He was an amazing person who will be missed tremendously! You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers."
"Sally and Brett, I'm very sorry for your loss, Kevin was a fun cool guy that enjoyed life. He is now in heaven watching down on you and keeping you safe. One day at a time..take care of each other- you are in my thoughts and prayers."
"Sally & Brett we were so sorry to hear about Kevin's passing. We just cannot believe it. Sending hugs your way. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. If we can do anything please let us know. Kevin will be truely missed!"
"Sally and Brett, We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thought and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Kevin has been a wonderful part of this community and a strong influence in all the lives he has touched. "
"Sally-Brett We will miss kevin so much.What a Great guy he was alway had smile.We have had alot time togother.He is in a better place now.our prayer are with you guys.IF YOU NEED ANY THING CALL... LOVE YA"
"Dear Sally and Brett-Our hearts are broken for you as you deal with the loss of someone you loved so much-Our memory of Kevin will always be a wave at 6:30a.m. out of the window of his white pickup as we were walking down River Road. You will be in our prayers~God Bless Keith and Cindi"
"Sally - We were so shocked and saddened to learn of your loss of Kevin. He will be missed by many. Please know our thoughts & prayers are with you and Brett at this difficult time."
"Sally & Brett, It was truely a shock when we heard the news of Kevin passing. He will be missed....He was a fun loving guy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Brett."
"Sally and Brett, We are so saddened to hear about Kevin. You are in our thoughts and prayers We will miss him at the baseball games and his great big heart for giving donations on part of the pork producers and donating his time to help others. "
"Sally & Brett, We were so saddened to herar of your loss. Kevin was one of the best! He will certainly be missed by everyone. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeff, Betty, & Brent"
"Sally & Brett, we were so shocked and saddened at the news of Kevin's death. Know that you are in our thoughts & prayers."
"Sally & Brett, Our sincere sympathy for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both. Kevin will be missed."
"Sally, we are so sorry to hear about Kevin. I can't even express how sad I feel for you. Our hearts go out to you and Brett. You are in our thoughts and prayers. "
"Sally and Brett, We are so upset about the news of your loss. You have such an uplifting spirit that you share with anyone you meet. This will come back to support you and your family now when you need it most. You are in our thoughts and prayers."
"Brett, the deepest sympathy goes to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers in Bemidji. We are all here for you if you need anything."
"Sally, Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. May all your family memories help to ease the sorrow. "
"Sally and Brett, We were so shocked and saddened to hear about Kevin. Our hearts go out to you both. You are in our thoughts and prayers. "
"Sally & family, So sorry to hear of Kevin's passing. His smile and laughter will be greatly missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers. "
"Sally, I am so sorry to hear about Kevin. My heart goes out to you. I will be keeping you in my prayers. Love, Julie Irwin Sand"
"Sally - I am sooo sorry that you have to endure an unbearable broken heart. My thoughts are with you. Someday in the future it will become bearable again. I promise. Take care of yourself. ~ Andrea"
"Sally & Brett we are so sorry for the loss of Kevin here on earth. My family and I have been truly blessed to have gotten to know Kevin. There are few like him! Our prayers are with you and your families."
"Sally and Brett you have my deepest sympathy. Kevin will truly be missed. The thing I will miss about Kevin is him wanting to trade vehicles all the time. We always had a good chuckle at Kevin wanting a different car or truck. He will be missed by all!!"
"Sally and Brett, Our thought and prayers are with you during this time. We have so many memories over the years that will be cherished. We all love you guys and are here for you now and at any time."
"Sally & Brent. We were so shocked at the news about Kevin. You are in our thoughts and prayers, if you need anything just let us know and we will be there. Kevin was an AMAZING man and will be truly missed by all who knew him."
"Sally, I'm still in shock, my heart aches for you and Brett. Why do we always loose the good ones first, Kevin will be so greatly missed. We'll be thinking of you, take care, sending hugs until I see you in-person."
"Dear Sally and Brett, Our sincere sympathy for your loss, Kevin was a super guy, always helping others and he will definitely be missed by all those who knew him. Tom and Terry Tegels "
"Dear Sally and Brett, May the comfort of family and friends help you during this difficult time and the days to come. Kevin touched so many lives with his gentleness...may your memories of this very nice man remain with you always. Linda and Dick Dawson"
"Sally and Brett, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He was a wonderful guy and we have had our laughs. I will remember him with great memories of smiles and laughter. If you need anything please let me know"
"Sally and Family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand during this sad time."
"Sally, Brett and Families: I am still in shock over the sudden passing of such a GREAT guy!! He will be greatly missed but not forgotten. God has plans for us, and I guess he needed a bigger angel up there to take control...Know that you are being held up in thought and prayer. Let your family and friends help you through this..WE are all there for you in whatever you need.{Huge Hugs} are being sent your way as you go down this difficult road, but we will be there for you in whatever you need. Love you guys!!"
"Sally, my heart goes out to you and your family. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Kevin's friendly smile will be missed at PJ's. Hope to still see you when your up for it!!!"
"Sally and Brett, we are so sorry to hear of your loss of a wonderful husband and dad. May you be comforted by the prayers of family and friends who are here to help you get through this difficult time. I don't know what more to say other than God must have needed him more and heaven has a very special angel now in their arms."
"sally and brett and family, so sorry to hear about kevin. please know that you are in both our thoughts and prayers as you go thru this difficult time. steve and pam "
"Sally & Brett ~ We were so sorry to hear about the sudden loss of Kevin. We will continue to keep you both in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. "
"Sal, Brett and family "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) Trust in the Lord and he will give you peace. All our love Ken & Jean"
"Sally & Brett, Kevin was such a wonderful person. It is impossible to accept, but God must have needed him in His Kingdom. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find peace in the days to come. Much Love, "
"Sally and Brett, I am so sorry for you loss of your husband and dad, he was a great guy always had a smile. Heaven has an awesome angel who will be watching over you both, you are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time. sending hugs your way"
"Sally and Brett....I am so sorry to hear about Kevin. I don't even know what to say. Kevin was a great guy and always had a smile. I will say many prayers for you to give you strength to get through this difficult time. "
"Sally & Brett - I am so sorry for your loss! I know there are no words that can help right now, but just wanted you two to know that you guys are in my thoughts and prayers! Love Sam"
"Sally, My heart just aches for you and Brett. This is a sad, sad day indeed. You are in my thoughts and prayers, and in Haley's also."
"The lord takes another one of the good ones....One more angel in heaven, one more star in the sky. RIP....Kevin. Sally and Brett so sorry for your loss, thoughts and prayers for you both...... "
"sally so sorry to hear about kevin he was a great guy that enjoyed life"
"I'm at a loss for words.... sooo sorry Sal. Life is so not fair sometimes. Thinking of you guys nonstop... prayers your way...."