Goodman-Brenda L. Oleson, 76, of Goodman, Wis., passed away Thursday, June 1, 2017, at Dickinson County Healthcare System, Iron Mountain, Mich., with her family be her side.

She was born August 3, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of the late Reo and June (Dieterich) Postel. Brenda was raised in Dubuque, and attended St. Columbkilles Catholic School in Dubuque. She was united in marriage to Gary R. Oleson Sr. in Dubuque, and he preceded her in 2006. They resided in several places, including, Dubuque, Prairie Du Chien, Wis., Appleton, Wis., De Pere, Wis., Beecher, Wis. and in 1994 moved to Goodman, Wis.

Brenda worked in respite care for many years and later as house parents at a foster group home in Appleton. Throughout the years, Brenda fostered over 44 children and adopted ten special needs children who grew up to be adults. Brenda was a gifted and avid artist who enjoyed oil painting, sketching, as well as a caregiver to many children over the years.

She is survived by two sons, Gary R. (Becky) Oleson Jr. and Jeremy Oleson; two daughters, Jennifer Oleson and Bonnie McDonald, all of Goodman; one brother, Bruce (Vicki) Postel, Arizona; one sister, Rebecca “Becky” McDonald, Dubuque; three grandchildren, Angela (Brent), William (Nuria) and Tammy (Gary); nine great-grandchildren; and she was expecting her first great-great-grandchild in October; a special cousin, Sandee; and Uncle Paul “ Fr. Paul” McDonald.

In addition to her parents and husband Gary, Brenda was preceded in death by six sons; Larry, Chad, Brian, Chris, Jeff and Brian; and one brother, Brent Postel.

Family and Friends will gather, Thursday, August 3, 2017, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the family home in Goodman.

Donations can be made to Gary or Becky Oleson and family in Brenda’s memory.

You may light a candle in remembrance of Brenda or leave a condolence for her family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com.

The family has chosen the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, to honor Brenda’s legacy of life.