Roy Ostenson

A kind and gentle man left this earth on January 26, 2010 to join the heavenly fishing grounds above. He departed peacefully with his loving wife and caretaker at his side. His name was Roy H. Ostenson and he was born in Colby, WI on July 23, 1916 to Tena (Gosse) and Melvin Ostenson. After high school he attended the University of WI - Stevens Point where he received a two year teaching certificate. He taught at State Graded Schools in Clark County until joining the Army Air Corp during WW ll as a radar countermeasure instructor in northern Italy. His experiences during his military service remained with him throughout his life and he spoke of them often.

After his honorable discharge he returned to complete his education at the University of WI - Stevens Point where he received his teaching degree. He also completed his Master's Degree in administration from the University of WI - Superior. He was an 8th grade teacher and principal in the Bloomer School District for 35 years. He cared deeply about his students and their education and never stopped sharing his wisdom with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He married Vivian Anderson in Minneapolis, MN and they would have celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary this coming March. Together, they were extraordinary parents to three children Mary, Nancy and Roy, Jr. He was a fabulous and progressive role model as he participated in all family chores from hanging out clothes to changing diapers to having dishpan hands! There was never a better husband, dad or grandpa than our sweet Pop Ost.

Roy's favorite past time was fishing and he particularly enjoyed the challenge of catching walleyes near his cabin on lower Long Lake. He also looked forward every year to his 'Annual' when he and his 4 oldest friends (the Curtiss Codgers) would spend a week at the cabin to fish and reminisce.

He was an avid reader who loved children, poetry, nature, all animals (especially dogs), snorkeling, and a good cup of coffee with a cookie. His favorite sayings were "This too shall pass" and the Robert Burns quote "O would some power the gift to gee us to see ourselves as others see us". He had a humble demeanor and a witty sense of humor that he used often.

A life well lived and a man well loved. We miss him dearly, but the lessons he taught remain. Roy's circle of life is complete. May we be better people because of him. FLY WITH THE ANGELS, GRAMPS. You're going to have some heavenly fishing competition, Wally!

Roy is survived by his wife Vivian, children Mary (Richard Carlson), Nancy (Mike Kapszukiewicz), Dr. Roy (Jing Liu), grandchildren Tom Carlson (Larissa), Todd Carlson (Michelle), Amy Phillips (Stan), Katie Corder (Al), Scott Kapszukiewicz and great grandchildren Kevin, Justin, Hannah and Jack Carlson, Tony and Kayla Carlson, Jack and Kade Phillips, Teigan and baby to be Corder. Survivors also include his sister and brother in law Audrey and Duane Freagon and cousin Dick Wagner. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and close friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters: Addie Goodspeed and Ethel Ostenson, and many wonderful friends.



A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 12:00 PM at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Bloomer with Rev. Robert Hannemann officiating. Friends may call from 11:00 AM until the time of service at the church on Saturday.
Go quietly into that gentle night…We love you, God bless you, sweet dreams!