Lennart Gustav Olund

Lennart Gustav Olund

Merrill, Wis., formerly Merrill, Iowa

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Lennart Gustav Olund, 87, of Merrill, Wis., on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023.

Visitation will be held from 12 to 4 p.m. on Sunday at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill, Wis. Service will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday also at the funeral home. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Len was born to Helmer and Greta Olund in Akron, Iowa, on Aug. 3, 1935. His family then moved to Merrill, Iowa, where he grew up. He excelled at sports and academics throughout his school years and also met his future wife, Helen Delutri. They graduated together in 1953.

Len served in the Air Force with training at Bryan Air Force Base and Lackland Air Force Base, both in Texas, and Graham Air Base in Florida. He returned to Merrill, Iowa, and continued to work for the Air Guard. He married Helen in 1956, and they began their 66 years of dedication to each other.

They welcomed their first five children in Iowa, then moved to Sacramento, Calif., in 1963. There they embraced the births of their next six children before moving to Merrill, Wis., in 1971. They saved the best for last and completed their family here with three more children. They've been blessed with 41 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren.

Len's family was the pride and joy of his life. He would say he may not have the most money but he was the richest man because of his family. They have been blessed by the strong values he instilled in them. Even in the most challenging of times, his sense of humor never failed. The legacy of his wisdom, wit, ingenuity, and work ethic will live on forever.

He is survived by his wife, Helen; children Scott (Julie) Olund, Kirk (Ann) Olund, Kathy Young, Lisa (Kurt) Mehre, Karin (Mark) Leopold, Craig (Annie) Olund, Lance (Patti) Olund, Troy (Patrice) Olund, Todd (Karen) Olund, Beth Shull, Kyle (Vicki) Olund, Jill (Steve) Schultz, Kali (Darin) Erickson, and Shane (Amy) Olund; and 79 grandchildren and great-grandchildren; younger sister Margaret Marineau; one nephew; and four nieces.

Len was preceded in death by his parents; and older brother, Trygve Olund.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Disabled American Vets (DVA) in Len's name, or the charity of your choice.