John Robert Oliva

John Robert Oliva, 74, of Paola Kansas, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, on Friday February 19th at 2:57 p.m., while at Olathe Medical Center. He peacefully left this world, surrounded by his loved ones. John was preceded in death by his mother, Juanita M Oliva, Paola Kansas. His grandparents Robert and Mary Moreno of Paola Kansas. His wife of 50 years Janet L Oliva, and his son David John Oliva of Emporia Kansas. He is survived by his remaining children Cassandra L Roe Emporia Kansas, Rebecca e Cortes, Emporia Kansas, Timothy R. Oliva Paola Kansas, Martha M Reilly, Worth Illinois, Daniel J. Oliva, Paola Kansas. His fiancee Marha Ross, and her daughter Annie Ross. 17 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren; as well as a host of other relatives, friends and loved ones. John began working as a Millwright Carpenter welder in 1971 and retired from Jayhawk Millwright of Kansas City Kansas in the summer of 2005. He drove tirelessly... rain sleet or snow an hour each way to and from work, every day, to provide for his family, rarely, if ever missing work. In between working and raising six children, John enjoyed attending Paola Assembly of God, reading his Bible, gardening, raising animals, vacationing, swimming, movies, playing the guitar, piano, ukulele, banjo, electric guitar , bass guitar , and steel guitar. He enjoyed playing in the church band, driving the church bus Sunday mornings as far out as Spring Hill, singing, working in Royal Rangers, children's church and children's church for children with special needs. A Jack of all trades, John could repair vehicles, complete Construction, Plumbing, electrical and much more. Well-known for giving Godly advice, to all who would listen. He enjoyed helping people whether it was taking them to an appointment,moving, giving them a loan, or helping them with repairs. Both Janet and John took into their home and Ministered to many people, both young and old, to help them in all different situations. Loved and known as Mom and Dad by many. In his final years; as a widower, John enjoyed attending living proof church, with his fiance and members of his family. Due to covid-19, services will be held online. To share a memory or to leave condolences to the family of John please click the memory tab.