Obituary of Joseph Herman Oley

Joseph Herman Oley was born April 8, 1933 in Dundee, Michigan. He was one of nine children born from the union of: the late Joseph Oley and the late Jennie (Jensesky) Oley. Raised on a farm, he was brought up to appreciate the simple things in life. He received his education by attending Monroe County Schools.    

He met and married the love of his life: the former Yvonne Myers on May 26, 1956 in Monroe and together decided to start a family of their own. To support his growing family, he worked hard for many years at Detroit Stoker as a welder.

Joseph was a handy man who could fix anything. He enjoyed time spent outdoors hunting, fishing, and being up North at the family cabin in Roscommon County. He loved tending to his garden, hosting pig roasts, and spending time with his dog: Snatch. He liked playing cards, especially euchre with friends and just enjoying the company of others. 

Family was very important to Joseph, and he loved spending time with them, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom he loved to spoil. Joseph was a one of a kind, hard-working and dedicated man who will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Joseph Herman Oley, age 85, of Monroe, passed away on Friday, November 30, 2018 at Promedica Ebeid Hospice surrounded by his family. His passing is preceded by his wife of 57 years: Yvonne Oley; his daughter: Connie Thomas, his brothers: Jim Oley, Ray Oley, Richard Oley and David Oley; his sisters: Viola Balog, Margaret Hedy and Theresa Benore and his parents.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his sons: Robert (Bev Coates) Oley and Anthony (Sadie) Oley; his brother Ben Oley; his grandchildren: Aaron, Chad (Nancy), Jared (Chelsey) Karissa, Michela, Robert (Jessica), Christinna and Stephanie; his great grandchildren: Owen, Abigail, Caleb, Carys, Jayden, Cejay, Caylin, Luke, Miles, Ethan, Logan, Laney, Dylan, Adalynn, Lillian and one on the way. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends.

Friends may gather Tuesday, December 4, 2018 from 2:00pm–8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe 14567 South Dixie Highway (734)241-7070. A Celebration of His Life will take place Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at 11:00am also at Merkle’s, South Monroe. Burial will take place at Woodland Cemetery.

Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration, share a photo or send a floral arrangement by visiting www.merklefs.com.