Longtime Southern Oregon Philanthropist Wanda Olsrud Dies at 100

Wanda Olsrud, a longtime Southern Oregon philanthropist and co-founder of the Sherm’s Thunderbird and Food 4 Less grocery brands, died this week at the age of 100.

Olsrud, along with her late husband Sherm, played a major role in shaping community support efforts across the Rogue Valley for more than six decades. Their work spanned food access, youth programs, education, healthcare, agriculture, and community infrastructure. Sherm Olsrud died in 2019 at the age of 95.

Born in 1925 and raised in Crow, Oregon, Wanda Olsrud spent much of her life in Southern Oregon after moving to the region with her husband in the late 1960s. The couple married in 1947 and later entered the grocery business, purchasing Wilson’s Sausage Kitchen in Eugene before expanding into Jackson and Douglas counties.

Their first Rogue Valley store opened in Medford in 1967 under the Thunderbird name. Additional locations followed in Klamath Falls, Medford, and Roseburg, eventually operating under the Food 4 Less brand. The businesses became known not only for affordability but for deep involvement in the surrounding communities.

Over the decades, the Olsruds became widely recognized for their consistent support of youth programs, agriculture, education, and local nonprofits. Their philanthropy extended to 4-H and FFA programs, food banks, healthcare services, and youth recreation facilities throughout Southern Oregon.

Wanda Olsrud was particularly known for her involvement with youth livestock programs, often attending auctions and supporting young participants regardless of competition outcomes. The couple also contributed to numerous infrastructure projects, including the development of the Olsrud Family Playground at Bear Creek Park and the Olsrud Arena at The Expo in Central Point.

In later years, their philanthropic efforts expanded further into healthcare. In 2022, the family made a major contribution to Asante Health System, supporting programs focused on women’s health, pediatric care, mental health, and cardiac services. The Olsrud Family Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center bears their name in recognition of that support.

Their involvement also extended to organizations such as ACCESS, where they supported food distribution and community assistance programs, including large-scale food drives and infrastructure improvements.

Despite their influence, the couple was known for maintaining a low profile and avoiding public recognition. Community members often described their giving as quiet, consistent, and deeply personal.

Wanda Olsrud is survived by her family and by a legacy of community investment that continues to shape Southern Oregon. Her impact is reflected not only in buildings and programs, but in the many individuals and families who benefited from her lifelong commitment to service.

Her passing marks the end of an era for the region, but the influence of her generosity and values will continue through the institutions and people she supported.