Oscar Hoiby passed away peacefully in his sleep on Feb. 26, 2026. Oscar was always known as “JR” by his many friends and family. He was a loving husband, brother, and uncle to many. JR was born to Oscar and Evelyn (Carlson) Hoiby. He lived his whole life in the Osceola/Dresser, Wisconsin, area.
JR graduated from the St. Croix Falls High School in 1960. He was very active in sports and lettered in football, basketball, and baseball. JR played town ball for both Cushing and East Farmington. He loved bowling, boating, and hunting with his brother and friends.
In the early 1990s, JR married Sheri, and with much love for each other made great partners and best friends. They loved snowmobiling, riding ATVs and boating. But most of all, he loved raising their dogs and horses, living in the country and sharing their love with its natural beauty and serenity. They traveled in later years, going to Hawaii, Alaska, and several trips to Europe, but they always loved coming home to their furry kids and horses.
JR was mechanically inclined and worked for 20 years building airplanes in Osceola for Champion Aircraft, and then spent another 20 years building fire trucks for Custom Fire. All 40 years took place in the same location by the Osceola Airport. JR took great care in everything he did to perfection. JR was a true follower of Jesus Christ’s teachings and was always helping others and did not ask for anything in return. He was a quiet, humble, and gentle man, never known to raise his voice or say a bad thing about anyone. He got along with everyone and was very grateful for the life God had given him.
JR is survived by his wife, Sheri, and his fur baby, Cooper. He is also survived by his brother, Roger (Shirley) Hoiby; sisters, Connie (Bob) Schmidt, Kay (Ken) Greip, and Lois Hill; his niece, Kelly Richardson, who was very special in his life; his uncle and aunt, Arnold and Jane Carlson; and many other nieces, nephews, and their families who he loved very much.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father; sister, Ruth Ann; and brothers-in-law, Al Richardson and LeRoy Hill.
At JR’s request, there will be no funeral. In lieu of flowers, please offer a random act of kindness to a stranger and/or pet on his behalf. We want to thank St. Croix Hospice who has been exceptional in this last chapter of his life and would ask that any donations be made to them or your church or favorite pet or horse sanctuary.
Arrangements with Grandstrand Funeral Home of Osceola. Condolences may be expressed online at grandstrandfh.com.
