Lennart G. Olund

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

Len was born to Helmer and Greta Olund in Akron, Iowa on August 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, California in 1963. There they embraced the births of their next six children before moving to Merrill, Wisconsin 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.

Len has been reunited with his parents and older brother, Trygve Olund. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Helen; his 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 grand- and great-grandchildren; his younger sister Margaret Marineau; 1 nephew and 4 nieces.

A visitation will be held at Waid Funeral Home on Sunday, February 26, 2023 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2023 at 4:00pm also at the funeral home.

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

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.