Bonifacio Olivas

Bonifacio Gilberto Olivas - known to most as Gilbert, to some as Jack, and lovingly called "Boney" by family - passed away peacefully on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 3:15 p.m., surrounded by the love of his family. He was 89 years old.
Born on April 11, 1936, in San Pedro, Colorado, Gilbert grew up grounded in family, tradition, and the values that guided his entire life: hard work, humility, loyalty, and humor. He later moved to Pueblo, Colorado, where he met the love of his life, Margaret Smotherman. Together they began a beautiful journey, eventually settling in Albany, Oregon, in 1974, where they raised their children and created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and community.
Gilbert worked faithfully as a plumber for Oregon State University, a job he took great pride in - famously never missing a single day of work. He was a natural helper, always showing up with his tools and refusing to accept payment. His passion for woodworking brought him endless joy, and he was exceptionally talented. He created beautiful, handcrafted pieces, nearly all of which he gifted to friends, neighbors, and family. Giving was simply who he was.
He enjoyed motorcycles, dancing with Peggy, sharing jokes, and welcoming people into his home. Gilbert had a generous heart, a protective spirit, and a sense of humor that made everyone around him feel comfortable and cared for.
Above all, Gilbert was incredibly proud of his children. He talked about them often, celebrated their accomplishments, and supported them in every way he could. His love for his family was steady, deep, and unwavering.
In August 2025, Gilbert moved to Anchorage, Alaska, to live with family and enjoyed creating meaningful memories during his time there. He passed peacefully at Providence Alaska Medical Center, surrounded by love.
Gilbert is survived by his children: Kelly Sebastian Olivas, Robyn Cordova Olivas and her husband, Micah Agee. grandchildren: Nathan Olivas, Brandon Olivas, Ashley Morrison, Vanessa Sullens, Sean-Luc Sullens and bonus granddaughter, Layla Agee, siblings Donaldo (Don) Emmett Olivas, Lenora Olivas, Karla Hasenstab.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy; his parents, Fermín Olivas and Julia Sanchez Olivas; his siblings, Sadie Muñoz and Bill Olivas; his baby sister, Lobelita Olivas; and his grandson, Sean-Luc Sullens.
Bonifacio leaves behind a legacy of generosity, craftsmanship, devotion, and love. His family will forever cherish his laughter, his stories, the beautiful pieces he created, and the countless ways he gave of himself.
He will be laid to rest in San Luis, Colorado, alongside his beloved wife, Peggy, at a later date.
He lived with heart, worked with purpose, and loved without hesitation. Now, he rests.