Mike Olinger, 57, Emery, SD died Sunday, March 29, 2015 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. Funeral services will be 10:30 am Wednesday, April 1 at St. Martin Catholic Church in Emery. Burial will be in St. Martin Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 pm Tuesday with a scripture and rosary service at 7:00 pm at the St. Martin Catholic. Arrangements are with the Hettinger-Bittner Funeral Chapel in Emery. Condolences may be left at www.bittnerfuneralchapel.net
He was born January 9, 1958 in Mitchell, SD to Anthony and Eleanor (Donovan) Olinger. He grew up on the family farm near Emery and graduated from Emery High School in 1976 and then attended MTI in Mitchell. On June 25, 1983 he married Pam Steichen at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Farmer, SD. Mike was engaged in farming his entire life with his father and brothers. He was also employed by several area John Deere Dealerships for several years and then RK Oil Company in Emery up until the time of his death. He was a member of St. Martin Catholic Church and served as treasurer and volunteer fireman for Emery for over three decades. Mike was a very proud grandpa of his two grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Pam, two daughters: Janae Olinger, Denver, CO, Kayla Olinger, Minneapolis, MN, one son, Brian (Barb) Olinger, Dell Rapids, two grandchildren: Lillian and Hayes Olinger, four sisters: Mary Olinger, Sioux Falls, Betty Hershley, Des Moines, IA, Jane (Bob) Prouty, Freeman, Carol (Greg) Weber, Parkston, four brothers: Dan (Ruth) Olinger, Bill (LaVonne) Olinger, Jerry (Suzy) Olinger, Kenny (Karla) Olinger all of Emery and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials are preferred to be made to the Emery Fire Department in lieu of flowers.