Oliver John Rath-Wald, infant son of Wyatt Rath-Wald and Alyssa Kooker passed away on January 8, 2026, at Sanford Medical Center in Bismarck, ND. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 10:30 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, Napoleon. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at the Wishek City Cemetery.

Oliver John was born on November 28, 2025, weighing 6lbs 6oz and measuring 20 ½ inches long. From the moment they learned of him, His parents eagerly awaited for his arrival with joyful anticipation. Bringing Oliver home was nothing short of pure bliss. Both Wyatt and Alyssa embraced parenthood with open hearts, learning their new roles while cherishing the magic and emotion of this beautiful journey.  Oliver was a gift they never knew they needed, yet one who forever changed their lives.

Though Oliver was only with us for a short six weeks, he was deeply loved and taught all who knew him the true meaning of pure love. His days were filled with snuggles from mommy and daddy, endless kisses, and the comfort of being held by his family. He heard countless "I love you's" and many sweet nicknames spoken just for him. Oliver shared his precious smiles, his adorable wiggles, his enthusiastic appetite, and of course his tiny little toots with those fortunate enough to meet him. Oliver was happy, and Oliver was loved.

Oliver is survived by his loving parents, Wyatt Rath-Wald and Alyssa Kooker; his Grandparents, Carmen and John Wald, Nicole and Duane Olhauser, Tim and Shannon Kooker;  Aunts and Uncles, Whitney Rath-Wald, Wade and Lindsey Rath-Wald, Morgan and Jordan Bosch and Megan and Emmett Heer; Cousins, Dain, Emelia, Dax, Thea and Kohley, Lydia, Parker and Sterling; Great Grandparents, Brenda and Frank Kelsch, Keith and Becky Olson and Terry Kooker. As well as many extended family members who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Oliver was preceded in death by his Uncle, Weston Rath-Wald; Great Grandparent, Barb and Victor Wald, Helen and Edwin Rath, and Bonnie Kooker.

Wyatt and Alyssa find comfort knowing their Grandparents and his Uncle are comforting Oliver with snuggles, rocking and perhaps a little bit of German lecture from Great Grandma Barb.

Wyatt and Alyssa want to extend their deepest gratitude to Oliver's nurse, Kristie. They will be forever grateful for everything she did for Oliver and his parents.