Born January 21, 1983, CWO2 Jesse James Oliver, 37, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, September 17, 2020 at his home in Chesapeake, VA. Overcoming a challenging childhood, Jesse was determined to be successful. Jesse was a hero to many and a true patriot serving more than 19 years in military service, always with distinction and honor. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after graduating from Lewiston High School in 2001, serving in the 1st Battalion, 12th Marines at MCBH Hawaii. He transferred to the US Coast Guard in 2005, serving as an Information Systems Technician. Furthering his career, he acquired his B.S. in Information Technology Management with Honors in 2016 and then earned his commission in 2018 as a Chief Warrant Officer in Information Systems Management.
Jesse married Heather Elliot September 5, 2003 in Lewiston, ID. They had 2 sons together, Lucas James, 19, and Caden James, 14. Jesse loved being a father and was actively involved in developing his childrens’ interests and hobbies. While in Hawaii, he was an assistant coach for youth wrestling and soccer. He was a skilled martial artist and a volunteer instructor at Blackhawk Karate and Kickboxing in Chesapeake, where he and his family trained together. Jesse volunteered for the CASA Super Hero 5k, delighting children and adults alike with his Super Hero shirt. He looked like a Super Hero. He was part of the Pit Crew for the Grassfield High School Marching Band, and a volunteer for Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads for Great Students). Jesse was also appointed to the board of Chesapeake Commission on Health and Wellness.
In addition to being a loving father, Jesse was a loving husband, brother, and son. If he called you a friend, you would count him among your best. He embodied good character and was clear of purpose and true to his word. Jesse was a leader and an inspiration for others. His passion was unmatched, his drive unrelenting. Jesse often said he suffered from “GSD” (Get Shit Done); that was how he lived every day. He was an exceptional human being, unstoppable in the pursuit of excellence.
Jesse had a lifelong passion for health and fitness. He continuously strived to improve himself, tirelessly researching the best physical fitness practices which he used to mentor many others in achieving their own personal fitness goals. His acquired knowledge and hard work was the foundation for him to become a champion powerlifter and bodybuilder.
To honor Jesse’s life and perpetuate his legacy, the family has created the Jesse Oliver Memorial Fund established at the LC Valley Youth Resource Center, Inc. in Lewiston, ID. The Center provides after school services for at-risk youth, a safe place where kids can complete homework, wash laundry, sit down to a family style meal or spend the night if needed. Donations will be used to purchase fitness and sports equipment for kids just like Jesse, providing them the opportunity to create their own healthy habits. To donate in Jesse’s Honor click on the Paypal “Donate” link on their website www.lcvyr.org and type in “Jesse Oliver Fund” in the note field. Or, you can contact them directly at lcvyrc@gmail.com.
Jesse is survived by his wife Heather, sons Lucas and Caden, father Richard, mother Alice, brothers Tony and Shane, sisters Samantha and Angela, and many nieces and nephews.
There will be a memorial service held at 1pm on Saturday, September 26th at the Portside on board Coast Guard Base Portsmouth. Any non-military guests wishing to attend must RSVP to jstuber20@gmail.com providing Name and Driver License # for security prescreening. There will be a gathering at his home after the service.
Jesse will be laid to rest in Lewiston, ID. His funeral will be held at 1pm on Friday, October 2nd at Vassar-Rawls Funeral Home located at 920 21st St in Lewiston. Graveside services to follow. Flowers can be sent to Vassar-Rawls.
Service Information
- Date & Time
- Friday, October 2, 1:00 PM
- Location
-
Vassar-Rawls Funeral Home
920-21st Avenue
Lewiston, Idaho 83501
Get Directions - Additional Details
- Burial will follow at Lewis-Clark Memorial Gardens.
Condolences
CDR Andrew Pate, USCG
I am heartbroken by the loss of this great father, husband, and shipmate. I sailed with Jesse for two years in CGC LEGARE and we worked closely on a variety of shipboard initiatives. I was exceedingly proud to see him earn his anchors and overjoyed when he later called me to share the good news of his selection to CWO.
Jesse cared deeply about motivating others and there was no challenge too big; I valued the many discussions we had and enjoyed watching him refine his GSD enthusiasm to embrace our ship's motto, "deeds not words".
To Heather, Lucas, and Caden, my heart aches for you. I was proud to know your husband/father and loved hearing him brag about you. Whether it was marching band, going back to school, or homebuying, he spoke about each of you with a reverence grounded in love.
You are missed but not forgotten, Jesse. May you rest in peace, shipmate.
Tuesday, September 29, 2020 8:42 AM