Blaine Oswald

Willard Blaine Oswald, a beloved member of the community and a devoted family man, passed away on June 25, 2023, at the age of 84 at EIRMC. Blaine’s passing leaves a void in the lives of all those who knew and loved him.

Blaine's journey began on December 15, 1938, when he was born into a loving family who instilled in him the values of hard work, compassion, and dedication. Growing up in the Osgood area, he developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and cherished the simple pleasures of life, especially fishing. His formative years were filled with memorable experiences and close bonds with his siblings, forging a strong foundation for the remarkable life he would lead.

Blaine graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1957. Eager to serve his country, he joined the Army Reserves, dedicating himself to the noble cause of defending his homeland. Through his service, Blaine demonstrated unwavering loyalty and a profound sense of duty.

On August 18, 1961, Blaine married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Crockett, in the Idaho Falls Temple. Together, they embarked on a journey of love, companionship, and shared dreams. Their marriage was a shining example of commitment and unity, and they would have celebrated 62 years of marriage this year. Blaine's and Barbara's love and devotion to each other served as a beacon of inspiration to their family and friends, reminding all who knew them of the power of love and the importance of nurturing relationships.

The majority of Blaine’s working life was in the automotive repair industry where he would leave an indelible mark. In 1969, he joined his father-in-law, Lovene Crockett, in the business, and upon Lovene's retirement in 1973, he took over and transformed the business into Oswald Service and Repair. Over the course of nearly four decades, Blaine dedicated himself to providing honest and competent automotive repair to the community he cherished. His passion for his work was palpable, and he took great pride in upholding the values of honesty and quality that became the cornerstone of Oswald Service and Repair. Today, those values remain a staple of the organization, a testament to Blaine's enduring legacy.

Blaine's life was defined by his commitment to service. His business even bore the name "service," reflecting his deep belief in the importance of serving others. Beyond his professional endeavors, he served as a full-time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Central Atlantic States Mission from 1959 to 1961. It brought him immense joy and pride to witness children and grandchildren choosing to follow in his footsteps to serve with two presently serving, Elder Derek Perrenoud and Elder Mitchell Oswald, being called to the same mission as their grandfather.

Within his church community, Blaine served in numerous callings, including bishop, stake high councilor, YSA branch president, and stake patriarch for 13 years. These roles allowed him to touch the lives of many, providing guidance, support, and love to those he served. His humble nature endeared him to others as he led with compassion and a genuine desire to help those in need. He also dearly loved his time serving in the Idaho Falls Temple.

Blaine is survived by his loving spouse, Barbara Ann Oswald; their children, Kyle (Wendy) Oswald, Kamee (Ben) Perrenoud, Kevin (Renae) Oswald, and Kenny (Cami Jo) Oswald; 16 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; brother, Ferrell (Linda) Oswald; sisters, Joyce Ellis, Annette (Larry) Stoddard, Jolene (John) Hollander, and Shauna (Kevin) Cambell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Ina Oswald.

Blaine will be remembered as a humble, kind-hearted, and compassionate individual who dedicated his life to serving others. His unwavering faith, strong work ethic, and genuine care for those around him will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. While his absence leaves a void in our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us as we carry forward his legacy of love, kindness, and service.

Services will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Idaho Falls Lincoln Stake building at 2545 Mesa St., Idaho Falls. The family will visit with friends Friday, June 30, 2023, at Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge Avenue, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery.

Services will be broadcast live at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@IdahoFallsLincolnStake