Joe Lawrence Osterman's Obituary
Joe Lawrence Osterman died on July 3, in Tampa FL. He was born in Enterprise, IL December
7,1927, the son of Everet and Lola Osterman. On August 23, 1952, he married Jacqueline
O’Brist in Carbondale, IL.
His early years were spent living on the family farm outside Geff, IL. He attended Fairfield and
Tucson (AZ) high schools with working jobs on the farm, Fairfield movie theatre, and a summer
job at Yosemite National Park.
He attended Southern Illinois University obtaining a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics, and
later earned a Masters Degree in Counseling. His education was interrupted by World War II
where he served in the Army Air Corp as a communications tech.
He was employed as Vice President of Production by Chromalloy (General Radiator) Mt.
Vernon, IL for several years and enjoyed a 20 year career as a math teacher and guidance
counselor at Mt.Vernon Township High School.
After retirement, he and his wife retired in Tampa, FL where he enjoyed many years of
gardening, landscaping, reading, classic country music, nascar racing, watching his favorite
western movies, and enjoying visits from family and grandchildren.
Survivors include three sons and one daughter: Michael Osterman (Diane)- San Antonio TX;
Gary Osterman ( Laura) - Houston, TX; Rhonda Garrison (John) - Ballwin, MO; Bret Osterman
(Jennifer) - Tampa FL.
Other survivors include 10 grandchildren: Joseph Robert Osterman - San Antonio, TX; Michelle
Bates - San Antonio, TX; Catherine Osterman - New Braunfels, TX; Craig Osterman - Denver,
CO, Chris Osterman - Frisco, TX; Jacqueline and Olivia Garrison - Ballwin, MO; Jennifer, A.J.,
and Blake Osterman - Tampa, FL and 3 great-grandchildren: Aurora Bates and Evelyn
Osterman - San Antonio, TX; Miles Osterman - Denver, CO.
Preceding his death were his wife, parents, and a sister, Dolores Eblin.
Per request, the body will be cremated with interment in Peaceful Valley Cemetery, Odin, IL at a
later date.
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