James Ostrem, 84, of Ottawa, passed away Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at his home.
Visitation will be on Sunday, August 20, 2023 from 1:00 until 3:00pm. A funeral ceremony will follow at 3:00pm. Private family burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park.
James was born February 11, 1939, in Harding, IL, to Elmer and Virginia (Stover) Ostrem. He married Bonita “Bonnie” Woosley on May 28, 1976 in East Peoria, IL. She passed away July 6, 2005.
He loved to farm and was very proud of his families’ farm. He worked the ground until he was almost 80 years old. He was extremely proud of his Norwegian heritage and had an extreme love for his family. He enjoyed traveling with Bonnie. The two of them would just get in the car and choose a direction to travel. He loved his car and would frequently stop at various car shows. He was also an extremely skilled craftsman and woodworker. He was a member of Shoreline Boat Club, Ottawa Elks, Lions, and Moose Club, the Ottawa Airmen Club, as well as the Oldsmobile Club.
He is survived by his step son, David (Leslie) Woosley; his granddaughter, Bailey (Luke) McConville; his great granddaughter, Ruby McConville; and his cousin, Elaine Ostrem. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and his step son, Timothy Woosley.
Memorials may be directed to the Lions Club.
James has been laid to rest in the Garden of the Last Supper at Oakwood Memorial Park.