Col. Verne (Bubs) Oliver of Freeland died Jan. 9, 2009. Col. Oliver was born Oct. 10, 1921 in Everett and attended Everett High School, where he excelled on the football field. He was elected captain of the football team in 1939 and was later elected to the Everett Football Hall of Fame. Upon graduation, he attended Washington State University at Pullman.

In March 1942 he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was transferred to the University of Washington for officer training which led to a commission in the United States Marine Corps. Upon receiving his commission, he was transferred to the 5th Marine Division, where his unit was one of the first to enter Japan in the Saebo-Nagasaki area.

He returned to Washington State University in 1946, where he graduated, majoring in history and political science.

He then attended Law school at the University of Montana, where he met his wife, the lovely Mary Hughes. After graduating and admission to the bar of the state of Montana, he was called back as a member of the Marine Corps Reserves to serve in the Korean War. At the end of the war, he married Mary, and accepted a regular commission in the U.S. Marines Corps. He served a tour in Vietnam and later served as Staff Judge Advocate of the Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. He retired Sept. 1, 1974 after more than 32 years of service.

Colonel Oliver came to Whidbey Island in 1985 with his wife Mary, where they enjoyed the beauty and ease of island life.

Colonel Oliver was preceded in death by his wife Mary and his daughter Casey Anne Oliver.

Colonel Oliver is survived by four of his children; Terry (Patricia) Oliver, of Bigfork, MT, Jeanne Oliver of Santa Rosa, CA., Thomas (Lori) Oliver of Vista, CA., and Tim Oliver of Freeland, seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.

A military honors service was held at Tahoma National Cemetery.