Obert, William Cecil

William Cecil Obert, 87, of Panama City, passed away on Wednesday, July 31, 2013. He was born on November 18, 1925 in Chipley, Florida.

He loved the outdoors, fishing, and hunting, especially coon hunting. Cecil was a Korean War Veteran and retired from the Civil Service at Tyndall Air Force Base, some years back. He was a Blue Lodge Master Mason thirty second degree and a Scottish rite with Harry Jackson Lodge 314, where he received a fifty year pin. In addition, he also was a noble of the Mystic Shrine.

Cecil, along with his two brothers, served in the Korean War. Cecil was part of “The Chosin Few,” a non-profit organization that honors those who served in the Epic Chosin Reservoir Campaign in North Korea in 1950. During the war, Cecil's tank was hit and he was wounded seriously, which led to a month long stay in a Japanese hospital. Cecil and his brother, John received Purple Heart medals for their service during the Korean War.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Aberta and daughter, Linda Gayle Obert. He is survived by three daughters, Cathryn Ann Ebel (Gary), Joyce Darsey Sauls (David), Jackie Birge Wills; two sons, Joel Ray Obert and William C. Obert Jr. (Janet Faye); two brothers, John Obert and Mallory “Doc” Obert; seven grandchildren, with special mention to grandson, Cody, who assisted his grandfather during his illness; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, August 5, 2013, at the church Cecil attended, First Baptist Church of Southport, 1732 Bridge Street, Southport, FL, 32409. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, August 4, 2013, at the church.

O'Brien, Martin J. "Marty"

Martin J. "Marty" O'Brien, 76, died on Wednesday, June 28, 2006, at Maine Medical Center in Portland as a result of heart complications.

He was born in Boston on April 2, 1930, the son of Martin (Matt) O'Brien and Ellen (Ellie) O'Brien.  He graduated from Boston English School in 1947 and from Bliss College in 1958. He attended the University of Maine (Extension from 1959 to 1960). He joined the regular Army, 1st Cavalry Division (Armor), in 1948. He served in Japan from 1949 to 1950, and served honorably in the Korean War from 1950 to 1951.

After the war, he transferred to the Continental U.S. HQ 1st Army until 1952, and served in Germany with the 17th Signal Battalion until 1953. In 1955 he joined the active Army Reserve, and in 1965 he joined the active Naval Reserve until 1974. Martin was the recipient of many medals and citations, too numerous to mention, for his dedication and devotion to his country.

As a civilian, Marty worked for the U.S. government for the Department of the Army from 1957-65, and the Department of the Treasury until 1974. He then moved to Washington, D.C., and worked for the Department of Energy until his retirement in 1985. Upon retirement, Martin returned to Maine and worked for Community Service Communications Inc. in Winthrop.

Martin was a lifelong member of the 1st Cavalry Division Association of the American Legion, and the Korean War Veterans Association. He was a former member and a Memorial Committee member of the Burton-Goode-Sargent Chapter, builders of the Maine Korean War Memorial in Bangor. He was founder and past president of the CPL Clair Goodblood (MOH) Chapter in Augusta, builders of the CPL Clair Goodblood Medal of Honor Memorial in Burnham.  He is the author of "The Korean War: Forgotten Soldiers of a Forgotten War ... No Longer Forgotten," "Above and Beyond The Call Of Duty" and "The CPL Clair Goodblood Story."

He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.  He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Helene O'Brien of Augusta; two daughters, Patty Matthews of Winthrop, and Kathy Walker and husband Greg of Winthrop; two sisters, Eileen Collins and Sheila Dion of Marshfield, Mass.; five grandchildren, Marty Matthews and wife Shana of Lewiston, Angie Matthews of Winthrop, Jeff Matthews and wife Feather of Monmouth, Michael Nelbach of Augusta and Jennifer Nelbach of Winthrop; and one great-grandchild, Darius Dunn of Winthrop.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at the new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Augusta on July 26 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Korean War Veterans Association, 163 Deerbrook Trail, Pineville, LA 71360. Arrangements are in the care of Funeral Alternatives, L.L.C., of Augusta.

O'Clair, Joseph "Norman"

Joseph "Norman" O'Clair, 84, died peacefully Sunday, February 14, 2016 at Maine Veterans Home, Caribou. He was born June 22, 1931 in Sheridan, a son of the late William and Emelda (Billier) O'Clair Sr.

He enlisted with the US Army during the Korean War, getting injured in combat on Heartbreak Ridge. He received his Honorable Discharge in 1953 and honorably received the Purple Heart in 2015, presented by US Rep. Bruce Poliquin and his staff.

Norman last worked with Pinkham Lumber as a circular saw filer for several years. Previously he worked for John Cobb, R. L. Fournier, Inc., and Mike & Clayton Turner, overseeing various operations in wood harvesting and farming. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post #9699, Ashland. In his earlier years, Norman enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping in the North Woods. He was also an avid woodworker, creating many birdhouses and crafts he shared with family and friends. He never hesitated to help anyone along the way if they needed a helping hand.

Norman's family would like to express their gratitude to the doctors and nurses at the Maine Veterans Home and The Aroostook Medical Center for their dedicated care and support. Also, a special appreciation to Ashland Ambulance Service for their always-rapid response and care.

He is survived by: his wife of 61 years, Lydia (Flint) O'Clair of Ashland; five children, Barbara Gillis and her husband Wendell of Garfield Plt., Arnold O'Clair and his wife Stacey, Steven O'Clair and his wife Tammy, Nora Clark and her husband Mark, and Andy O'Clair, Norman's "Little Buddy", all of Ashland; five siblings, Florence Kinney of Illinois, Hubert O'Clair of Virginia, Armand O'Clair and his wife Janet of Hermon, Nancy Conley of No. Carolina, and Catherine Howes and her husband Fred of Ashland; four grandchildren, Fay, Jeremy, Courtney, and Brandon; five great grandchildren, Deacon, Faith, Joey, Cayleigh and Averie; a special family friend, Kay O'Clair; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Norman is predeceased by an infant son, Joseph Norman O'Clair Jr., eight siblings, Frederick O'Clair, William O'Clair Jr., Melvin "Paul" O'Clair, Yvonne "Marie" Gillespie, Lawrence O'Clair, Geneva Mary O'Clair, Victor "Dickie" O'Clair, and Joan Jean Beaulier.

A funeral service was celebrated at 11:00 am on Thursday, February 18, 2016 at the Union Congregational Church, Sheridan Road, Ashland. Relatives and friends greeted the family 10:00 am until the time of service at the church. Burial was private and at the convenience of his family. Donations in Norman's name may be made to: Maine Veterans Home-Caribou, 163 Van Buren Rd., Caribou, Maine 04736. Arrangements were a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 114 Exchange St./PO Box 39, Ashland.

Offutt, Jerome P.

Jerome P. Offutt, a retired electrical worker and decorated Korean War veteran, died of renal cell cancer June 15, 2006, at Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center & Hospital. The longtime Randallstown resident was 75. Mr. Offutt was born in Baltimore and raised on Morley Street. He was a 1948 graduate of Mount St. Joseph High School and enlisted in the Army in 1951. A member of an artillery unit, Mr. Offutt saw combat in Korea. He was awarded two Bronze Stars and attained the rank of corporal. He returned to Baltimore and went to work in 1953 for Westinghouse Electric Corp.

O'Halloran, John Thomas

John O'Halloran passed away on June 4, 2023 in Auburn, California. He was 94 years old.

John lived a life of service to his country, the City of Mountain View, the State of California, and the County of Santa Clara. He was loved greatly by his family, friends, community and employees.

John was born on October 1,1928 in San Francisco, California to Susan and Dennis O'Halloran. John graduated from the University of San Francisco in 1950 and married Noel Boscacci on December 2, 1950. He joined the Army as a First Lieutenant in 1951, served stateside during the Korean War, and was honorably discharged.

John's first job out of college was as a finance officer for the state of California at the Cow Palace. Then, in 1956, John and Noel moved with their young children to the city of Mountain View when John took the job of Finance Officer for the city. In 1958, at the age of 29, he was hired as one of the youngest city managers to help run and develop the city of Mountain View. Under his leadership Mountain View became an example of a city that showcased industrial development, open space, and residential balance. He was instrumental in the design, planning, and building of Shoreline Park.

In 1959 John was voted Mountain View Chamber of Commerce "Man of the Year" and in 1964 "Boss of the Year". He did all this while raising seven children and being very involved with community organizations such as the Peninsula Division of Ducks Unlimited, Mountain View Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trustees of Holy Cross High School, Director of Catholic Charities (San Francisco Archdioceses), Chairman of Foothill College Municipal Advisory Group, and the United Way. He even taught a class for a few years at Santa Clara University on Public Works Administration.

John shared his love for hunting, camping, and fishing with his family, taking them on numerous trips to Western USA parks. After his time at the City of Mountain View, John was appointed the General Manager of Santa Clara Valley Water District for the next 15 years (1973-1988), where he was involved in creating infra-structure of Santa Clara Water Systems such as the San Felipe Water Project and the Santa Teresa Water Treatment plant. In 1979 John received his MBA from Santa Clara University.

In 1988, John retired and he and Noel moved to Lake of the Pines, California where he finally had time to follow his passions of fishing and golfing. At Lake of the Pines, he was also a member of SIRS and the Pinesmen.

John was preceded in death by Noel. They were happily married for over 65 years. He is survived by his children Denis, Maureen (Howard), Mike (Bonnie) Tim (Elizabeth), Katie, and Eileen (Eddie). He is also survived by his eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren; Dan (Ericka), Emily (Eli), Jake, lan, Sean (Nora), Scott, Liam, Landon, Sofia, Kellan, and Brody. He was also preceded in death by his son Kevin, brother Frank, and sister Josephine. The family gathered for a private internment, with a military honor guard, at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery on July 8, 2023.

Published by Mercury News on August 6, 2023.

O'Hara, Joseph Michael

Joseph Michael O'Hara, 93, of Mascoutah, Illinois, born September 30,1928 in Youngstown, Ohio, passed away on February 5, 2022, at Silver Creek Assisted Living in Mascoutah.

Joe was a retired purchasing supervisor for the University of Wisconsin in Kenosha. He grew up in Youngstown, attending St. Brendan Catholic Grade School and Chaney High School until enlisting in the US Army in World War II, where he served with four of his brothers. While serving in the 7th Infantry, Joe crossed paths with his brother, Tom, in Korea, where Tom later died a prisoner of war. Joe attended the Tokyo War Crimes Trials in Japan before his last assignment at the Pentagon.

He married Joan Sternagel after a whirlwind courtship though they had known each other as neighbors for many years. Seventy-two years later they were still sweethearts at Joe's passing. He also applied his energy to running with the Kenosha Running Club, running in the New York City Marathon, coaching two Little League Championship Teams with his son, Bill in Kenosha, and assisted in coaching the Plymouth High School cross country team in Plymouth, Wisconsin.

He is survived by his wife, Joan, nee Sternagel, O'Hara; his sons: Michael O'Hara and William F. O'Hara (Nancy Larson and family); grandchildren: Shannon Miley Laehn (Steve), Michelle Martha Braatz (LeRoy) and James P. O'Hara (Laura, nee Donahoe); 11 great-grandchildren: Connor, Jake, Anna, Lucas, Maria, Louie, Loren, Maddie, Olivia, Finn, and Eleanor; a sister, Catherine O'Hara McCammon and a brother, James O'Hara; and numerous nieces; nephews and cousins; including family historian and nephew, Tom McCammon of Wadsworth, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William F. O'Hara and Elizabeth Prendergast, O'Hara, along with nine of his eleven siblings: Francis O'Hara, Mary O'Hara Yackubec, John "Jack" O'Hara, George O'Hara, Thomas O'Hara, Alice O'Hara Orosz, William F. O'Hara, Grace O'Hara McCammon and Rita O'Hara.

With a twinkle in his eye, he loved a good play on words and was a kindly gentleman to the end. On St. Patrick's Day, Joe would appreciate you raising a glass and sharing a smile in his memory. Thank you to the caring staff at Silver Creek Assisted Living, Hospice of Southern Illinois and to Father Paul Wienhoff of Holy Childhood Church. Memorials may be made to the Mascoutah Food Pantry, 17 W. Main St., Mascoutah, IL 62258.Burial with military honors will follow in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri.

Oleman, Herbert Ellis

Funeral services for Burney resident Herbert Ellis Oleman will be held at 12:00 noon, Saturday, December 1, 2012 at McDonalds Chapel in Burney. Burial at Burney Cemetery will be at a later date.

“Herb” passed away Thursday, November 22, 2012 in Redding. He faced his recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer with indescribable courage.  Born on January 14, 1930 in Summit, Oregon, he was one of nine children born to Kenneth and Ellen Oleman.

From 1951 to 1957 he served in the US Army, proudly fighting in the Korean War. Herb was a truck driver and a jack of all trades.

Herb was predeceased by the love if his life, his sweetheart Marguriet, his precious son Robert Jacobs, his sister Rosemary Horn, and brothers, Harvey, Ron and Rodney Oleman. He is survived by daughter, Glinda Peterson and her husband Cliff of Redding; sisters, Beverly Malloy, Browsnville, Oregon; Delores Moore, Scio, Oregon and Phyllis Delgado, Portland, Oregon and brother, David Oleman, Toledo, Oregon. He also leaves behind his beloved grandsons and their wives, Rob and Shannon Peterson, Redding; Canen and Aimee Peterson, Folsom, California, and Nate and Lindsy Peterson, Redding, and seven great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews he loved so much.

May You Get The Rest You So Greatly Deserve.  Please make donations in his memory to Interim Hospice, 970 Executive Way, Redding, California 96001.

Olshan, Kenneth S.

Kenneth S. Olshan, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wells, Rich, Greene Advertising died last week at his home in Redding, Connecticut.  He was 87. His wife of 65 years, Patricia E. Olshan died three days later, also at their home, she was 84. Both died from complications related to COVID-19. Mr. and Mrs. Olshan had been residents of Redding since 1986.

Mr. Olshan, whose first job in New York was in the mail room at B.B.D.O. advertising in 1957, was made Chairman of Wells Rich Greene in 1981. While at W.R.G. he oversaw the development of many iconic campaigns, including "Flick My Bic" (Bic Lighters), "Plop Plop Fizz Fizz" (Alka-Seltzer) and perhaps the longest living one, "I Love New York", which is still being used today. He graduated from Indiana University in 1954.

After retiring from WRG in 1995, Mr. Olshan sat on numerous corporate boards including Saatchi & Saatchi, Charming Shoppes (including Lane Bryant) and Footstar. The Olshans were dedicated to charitable organizations such as the Central Park Conservancy, National Multiple Sclerosis Society and The UJA Federation, of which Mr. Olshan was named as Marketing Man of the Year in 1992. Mr. Olshan served on the boards of the Westport Public Library, the Mark Twain Library in Redding, and Temple B'Nai Chaim, also in Redding.
From 2006-2009. Mr. Olshan partnered with his daughter, becoming Business Manager at her restaurant, Margot Cafe and Wine Bar in Stamford, Connecticut. His favorite thing to do was select and feature boutique wines from all over the world.

Mr. Olshan was born in Evansville Indiana on July 15,1932, to Harry and Ethel Olshan. He was predeceased by his brother Larry Olshan in 1991. Mrs. Olshan, or Patsy as she was known, was born in Indianapolis Indiana on February 26, 1936 to Ruth and Sidney Shane.
She was predeceased by her sister, Carole Shane King in 2013, and survived by her brother Stephen Shane of Oakland, California. Patsy and Ken met at Indiana University in 1951. She was a senior in high school about to matriculate into IU. He was studying journalism at the university. They decided to get married a year later when Ken graduated and was drafted into the military. In 1956, they decided to seek their fortune in New York City. They moved to Westport in 1970 because they wanted to raise their children in a place where they could ride bikes, play baseball and go to good public schools. When they became empty nesters, they relocated to an estate on Sanfordtown Road in Redding.

In their remaining years, they resided at the Meadow Ridge Senior Living Community. Sadly, it was during this time that Patsy began to suffer from dementia. Ken loved Patsy as much as any man loved any woman. He cared for her, protected her and comforted her as her mind drifted away. In a beautiful twist, neither had to suffer the pain of the other's loss.
Ken had a great sense of humor, an adventurous spirit and an insatiable intellectual curiosity that burned bright until the end. Patsy was known for her charm, intelligence, and most of all, her ability to talk to anyone and make them feel interesting. She knew everything about the people in her life, from her children's friends to the CEO's of international corporations. She brightened every room she walked into.

Patsy and Ken leave behind three children; Margot Olshan of Brooklyn, New York, Matthew Olshan and John Olshan, both of Stamford, Connecticut. They had two daughters-in-law, six grandchildren, a grandson-in-law, plus their faithful dog Butch.

A memorial will be held when social gatherings are permitted. In lieu of flowers, The Olshan family requests donations be made to Indiana University School of Medicine to support Alzheimer's Disease Research in Neurology. Please make memorial gifts payable to "IU Foundation" and mail to IU Foundation, P.O. Box 7072, Indianapolis, IN 46207-7072, and indicate "In memory of Kenneth and Patricia Olshan" on the gift. Donations may be made online to: https://www.myiu.org/one-time-gift. Where it says "Write in gift area," please type "Alzheimer's Disease Research in Neurology.

O'Neill, Charles Francis

Charles Francis O'Neill, 82, of Champaign, Illinois, passed away at 11:20 p.m. Friday March 7, 2014 at his home.  Visitation for Charles will be from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. March 12 at Morgan Memorial Home, 1304 Regency Drive West, Savoy, Illinois.  Interment will take place at 1 p.m. the same day in Oakridge Cemetery, Springfield.

He was born on September 18, 1931, in Springfield to Francis and Christine Cox O'Neill.  He married Irene Johnson-Bruce and they have celebrated 35 years of happiness.

Survivors include his wife Irene of Champaign, four sons, Brian (Pam) O'Neill, Pat (Sherrie) O'Neill and Tim O'Neill, all of Pontiac; two stepsons, Ed and Robert Bruce, both of California; one daughter, Teresa (Wayne) Houston of Springfield, and one stepdaughter, Carol Bruce of California.  Also surviving is one sister, Marian Richards.  Charles is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 64 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by four sisters, Nancy O'Neill, Sandra O'Neill-Fuller, Margaret "Peggy" Baker and Barbara Forestier.

He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, serving in a Marine Recon unit during the Korean War.  He was employed at Meadow Gold/Bordens for 40 years before retiring in 1993.  He was a member of the Elks Lodge, VFW and the American Legion.  He was also a member of the Savoy United Methodist Church and was a lifelong fan of the Fighting Illini. 

Opolka, John Carl Jr.

John C. Opolka, Jr.
Mahomet – “God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be. So He put His arm around you and whispered, “Come to Me”. – Author unknown.
John Carl “Junior” Opolka, Mahomet, passed peacefully in the arms of his beloved wife at 1:40 a.m. on Friday (December 11, 2015) at Champaign-Urbana Nursing and Rehabilitation. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Tuesday (December 15, 2015) at St. John Lutheran Church, Champaign with the Rev. Mark Elliott and Rev. Jeff Caithamer officiating. Burial will be at Grandview Memorial Cemetery, Champaign. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Monday (December 14, 2015) at Morgan Funeral Home, Savoy.
John, the first born son of John and Fern (Honecker) Opolka, was born on June 3, 1928 at Womac, a small mining town near Centralia, IL. John married Gladys Saathoff on Easter Sunday, March 25, 1951 at St. John Lutheran Church, Champaign, IL with Reverend J.G. Kaiser officiating. She survives. John graduated from Urbana High School in 1947. During high school, he was a member of the golf team for four years. He also taught art class at the high school during the last two months of a semester when the art teacher resigned. That was a happy time for him. He then attended the University of Illinois for one year. He served in the Korean War. Upon discharge, he went back to work at the University of Illinois Printing Division where he was employed for 39 years. He looked forward to and enjoyed every day at work. When he retired in 1988, he was the Superintendent of the Printing Division. One week after retiring, he worked three years at Crouse Printing, Champaign, IL as Vice-President. He worked part-time at K’s Merchandise for nine years.

From 1957-1959, he was President of the Champaign-Urbana Printing Pressman and Assistant Union Local 219. John was named Champaign-Urbana Jaycees “Boss of the Year”. John is a life member of Ambucs. He received the Project Manager Award; Superior Club President; Region 4-A “Mr. Ambucs”; District 4-A Secretary Treasurer; Distinguished Governor 4-A Award; Superior Region 4-A Award; and the Distinguished Regional Director Region 4-A Award. John served as a member of the Mahomet, IL Zoning Committee and a Trustee on Mahomet Village Board. John was instrumental in bringing ESDA (formerly known as Civil Defense) into Mahomet. He was a member of the Board of Education and a member of the Board of Elders at St. John Lutheran Church, where he was a member all of his adult years; he participated in plays through the Community Theater Group, Mahomet and he served as a Champaign County Election Judge. John was one of the first 50 applicants to receive a Printing Management degree equal to a B.A. He is a member of Mahomet Post 1015 American Legion and a Life member of Urbana VFW 630. On June 16, 2015, John had the privilege of going on the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight to Washington, DC. His grandson, Jeremy Watts, escorted him as guardian on the trip. This was a memorable trip and he was thankful for the people that arranged it.
John is survived by his children, John III (Pam) of Princeton, IA; Gregory (Diana) of Gray, GA; Letitia Cundiff of Champaign; Carolyn (Craig) Rothman of Short Hills, NJ; one brother Jack (Joan) Opolka of Urbana; one sister, Betty (Ray) Pittman of Batavia, IL; seven grandchildren: Sarah (Kevin) Zalanowski of Naperville; Rebecca Opolka of Davenport, IA; Amanda (Ryan) Strom of Davenport, IA; Jaime Watts of Urbana; Jeremy Watts of Champaign; Courtney Rothman of Short Hills, NJ; Stephanie Rothman of Short Hills, NJ and three great grandchildren, Brayden, Nolan and Harper.
John was a wonderful, loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a great fan of country music, especially the Bement Country Opry and the great hymns of Martin Luther as well as classical music. He had a tremendous sense of humor. He loved walking, playing golf and he could fix almost anything that was broken, especially tools and things Gladys said could not be fixed.
John will be profoundly missed by all of his family and many special cousins and friends.
Memorials can be made to St. John Lutheran Church, Champaign, IL; Cornbelt Fire Protection District, Mahomet, IL; or an organization of the donor’s choice.

- See more at: http://www.morganmemorialhome.com/obituary/john-c-opolka-jr/#sthash.vjHEAUx2.dpuf

“God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be.
So He put His arm around you and whispered, “Come to Me”.
– Author unknown.

John Carl “Junior” Opolka, Mahomet, Illinois, passed peacefully in the arms of his beloved wife at 1:40 a.m. on Friday (December 11, 2015) at Champaign-Urbana (Illinois) Nursing and Rehabilitation. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Tuesday (December 15, 2015) at St. John Lutheran Church, Champaign with the Rev. Mark Elliott and Rev. Jeff Caithamer officiating. Burial will be at Grandview Memorial Cemetery, Champaign. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Monday (December 14, 2015) at Morgan Funeral Home, Savoy.

John, the first born son of John and Fern (Honecker) Opolka, was born on June 3, 1928 at Womac, a small mining town near Centralia, Illinois. John married Gladys Saathoff on Easter Sunday, March 25, 1951 at St. John Lutheran Church, Champaign with Reverend J.G. Kaiser officiating. She survives.

John graduated from Urbana High School in 1947. During high school, he was a member of the golf team for four years. He also taught art class at the high school during the last two months of a semester when the art teacher resigned. That was a happy time for him. He then attended the University of Illinois for one year.

He enlisted in the Illinois National Guard around 1950, which was Federalized as the 44th Infantry Division at Camp Cooke, California in 1952. He served as a First Sergeant in the 32nd Ordnance Battalion in Korea.

Upon discharge, he went back to work at the University of Illinois Printing Division where he was employed for 39 years. He looked forward to and enjoyed every day at work. When he retired in 1988, he was the Superintendent of the Printing Division. One week after retiring, he worked three years at Crouse Printing, Champaign as Vice-President. He worked part-time at K’s Merchandise for nine years.

From 1957-1959, he was President of the Champaign-Urbana Printing Pressman and Assistant Union Local 219. John was named Champaign-Urbana Jaycees “Boss of the Year”. John was a life member of Ambucs. He received the Project Manager Award; Superior Club President; Region 4-A “Mr. Ambucs”; District 4-A Secretary Treasurer; Distinguished Governor 4-A Award; Superior Region 4-A Award; and the Distinguished Regional Director Region 4-A Award.

John served as a member of the Mahomet Zoning Committee and a Trustee on Mahomet Village Board. John was instrumental in bringing ESDA (formerly known as Civil Defense) into Mahomet.

He was a member of the Board of Education and a member of the Board of Elders at St. John Lutheran Church, where he was a member all of his adult years.  He participated in plays through the Community Theater Group, Mahomet, and he served as a Champaign County Election Judge. John was one of the first 50 applicants to receive a Printing Management degree equal to a BA.

He was a member of Mahomet Post 1015 American Legion and a Life member of Urbana VFW 630. On June 16, 2015, John had the privilege of going on the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight to Washington, DC. His grandson, Jeremy Watts, escorted him as guardian on the trip. This was a memorable trip and he was thankful for the people that arranged it.

John is survived by his children, John III (Pam) of Princeton, Iowa; Gregory (Diana) of Gray, Georgia; Letitia Cundiff of Champaign; Carolyn (Craig) Rothman of Short Hills, New Jersey; one brother Jack (Joan) Opolka of Urbana; one sister, Betty (Ray) Pittman of Batavia, Illinois; seven grandchildren: Sarah (Kevin) Zalanowski of Naperville, Illinois; Rebecca Opolka of Davenport, Iowa; Amanda (Ryan) Strom of Davenport; Jaime Watts of Urbana; Jeremy Watts of Champaign; Courtney Rothman of Short Hills, New Jersey; Stephanie Rothman, also of Short Hills, and three great grandchildren, Brayden, Nolan and Harper.

John was a wonderful, loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a great fan of country music, especially the Bement (Illinois) Country Opry and the great hymns of Martin Luther as well as classical music. He had a tremendous sense of humor. He loved walking and playing golf, and he could fix almost anything that was broken, especially tools and things Gladys said could not be fixed.

John will be profoundly missed by all of his family and many special cousins and friends. Memorials can be made to St. John Lutheran Church, Champaign; Cornbelt Fire Protection District, Mahomet; or an organization of the donor’s choice.

Oropeza, Lionel

Lionel Oropeza, 86, resident of Los Angeles, California, entered into eternal rest on April 6, 2018 in Woodland Hills. Lionel was born on November 27, 1931 in California to parents Angel Oropeza and Lucia Rodriguez.

He served as a Corporal in the US Army in Korea, where he was a pole line foreman with KCOMZ from 1952 to 1954.  He was drafted into the service in 1952 and took basic at Ft. Ord and MOS training at Camp San Luis Obispo.  He was proud of his service.

Lionel worked as a truck driver for over 40 years.  He is survived by his sons Richard and Larry; his daughters Katherine, Monica and Olivia; his brother Ernie; his 10 grandchildren and and one great grandchild; as well as many friends and family who will love and miss him dearly.

Osborn, Charles Raymond

Charles Raymond Osborn, a descendent of two of the early South Fork families, died of a heart attack on February 14, 1994, in Sarasota, Florida, where he had been on vacation with his wife. He was 65 years old.

Mr. Osborn was born on March 25, 1928 in Southampton Hospital to Raymond Hopping and the former Mary Augusta Halsey Osborn.

Mr. Osborn attended Wainscott’s one-room schoolhouse, and East Hampton High School. From 1946 to 1950, he delivered milk and ice in Wainscott for Osborn Dairy, a family company. During this period he also delivered the family’s Wainscott grown potatoes to the Severn Potato Company in Manhattan, a distributing firm owned by his father. He drove an 18-hour route several times a week.

Mr. Osborn served in the Army during the Korean War, returning home a corporal in 1952, decorated with the Purple Heart and Silver Star. Assigned as a rifleman to L Company, 223rd Infantry Regiment, 40th Division, he reported to Camp Cooke in October 1950. In March 1951, the Regiment sailed for Sendai, Japan, where its members were occupation troops for ten months. In January 1952, his regiment relieved the 24th Division on the front lines. While on the front lines, he was injured in a grenade explosion in April 1952 and evacuated to a hospital in Japan. He recovered and was eventually honorably discharged from Camp Kilmer, New Jersey in September 1952.

In September of 1954, Mr. Osborn married the former Dorothy Verhaegen of Montauk. The wedding was set for the 11th, but a hurricane hit that day, washing away the highway along Napeague, making travel impossible. They were married on September 12th instead. The couple moved to Oakview Highway in East Hampton and later settled on Squires Path.

Upon his return from the war, Mr. Osborn founded the Osborn Produce Company with his father, brother David, and sister Ruth. They raised potatoes and cabbages for 40 years, as well as strawberries and pumpkins.

Mr. Osborn was an Elder of the East Hampton Presbyterian Church, a member and director of the Maidstone Gun Club, which named a shooting range in his honor, the East Hampton Historical Society, and AGWAY. He also belonged to the Eastern Long Island Chapter of Korean War veterans, the American Legion, and the Southampton Pistol and Rifle Club.

For 23 years, Mr. Osborn served as a local representative to the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service in Riverhead, and for the last nine years he represented the county with the service.

He was a faithful churchgoer and devoted family man, his family said, "known for kindness, keen wit, and love of the earth.  To quote a friend, "He was a gentleman and a gentle man."

Besides his wife, Mr. Osborn is survived by his brother David R. Osborn of Wainscott, a sister Ruth O. Daisley of Sarasota, Florida, and three daughters, Cynthia Shellman of Hoboken, New Jersey, Hilary Malecki of Silver Spring, Maryland, and Amy Osborn of Hong Kong.  Two grandchildren also survive.

A funeral service was held February 18th at the East Hampton Presbyterian Church.  Burial followed at the Wainscott Cemetery.  Memorial donations to the church have been requested, or to the National Korean War Monument, c/o Korean War Veterans, Box 164, Southampton, New York 11969.

Osborn, Norman R. Sr.

I am Tish Osborn, the daughter of Norman Osborn. I have the sad job of informing all treasured family and friends that my dad, GySgt Norman R. Osborn, Sr. Ret. passed away at 9:15 am, today (11/16/07) with our family at his bedside.  Dad fought the ultimate battle of his life during the past 7 weeks since emergency surgery. He was a true Marine until his last breath. Semper Fi Dad!

Funeral Arrangements are being handled by Eternal Hills of Oceanside. Viewing will be at Eternal Hills: Wed., November 21st from 4 - 8 pm.  Celebration of Life will be Friday, November 23rd at 1 pm also at Eternal Hills. Reception following at: Encinitas Elks Lodge, 1393 Windsor Rd, Cardiff, CA 92007 (760) 753-2243.

The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers that donations be made in dad's name to either: (Both organizations support wounded military personnel returning from Iraq.)

Freedom House
c/o Donna Lewis
PO Box 710836
Santee CA 92072
(619) 507-9493

"Nice Guys of San Diego" for the Victory Fund
PO Box 881456
San Diego, CA 92168
858-597-9397

Thank you for keeping my mom and family in your thoughts and prayers during this sad time. Respectfully,
Tish Osborn

Oschwald, Donald E.

Donald E. Oschwald, 80, of Versailles, Kentucky died peacefully at his home surrounded by his children and family on Sunday, January 17, 2010.  He was the husband of the late Doris Martin Oschwald and son of the late Martin and Minnie Oschwald of Springfield, Illinois.  He was born January 21, 1929, in Springfield, Illinois.

He was a member of Gardenside Christian Church.  He was an Army veteran serving in Korea from November 1951 until January 1953.  His memoir can be found on the Korean War Educator's Memoirs pages.  He retired from IBM after 37 years as a Customer Engineer.  He enjoyed aviation books, gardening, and wood working.

He is survived by his dear friend, Sophie Bowman of Versailles; four children, Mrs. Joseph (Deborah) Hoffmann of Lexington, Donald Oschwald, Jr. and his wife Sherri of Lexington, Dean Oschwald and his wife Julie of Versailles, and Mrs. Tony (Dawn) Gossard of Waynesville, OH; a sister, Delores Fowler of Williamsville, IL; 12 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by a brother, Glenn Oschwald of New Berlin, IL.

He was a kind, gentle, and loving man of Christian faith and integrity.  He will be sorely missed by all who had the great fortune of knowing him.

Overton, Ernest

Ernest Overton was born in Sullivan County Indiana on 4/9/1927. He was the son of Glessa Overton and Dessie (Shepler) Overton.  Ernest was a corporal in the 71st Signal Battalion during the Korean War.  He was stationed at the former Japanese Imperial Marine Barracks, which was the name for this barracks in World War II, better known as the Elmer Hardy Barracks during the Korean War.

Ernest passed away in his home in West Terre Haute, Indiana on May 30, 2005 at 9:25 p.m. He was alert up till 11 a.m. and was able to tell his family he was 99.9 % dead and that he loved us and will miss us.

Ernest joined the Regular Army in Toledo Ohio in 1948, and was discharged in June 1952. He was a member of the American Legion Post 104 in Terre Haute. He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 972 in Terre Haute.

Survivors include his present wife Helen; one son, Ernest Earl Overton of Indianapolis; two daughters, Brenda Brewer and her husband Homer of West Terre Haute, Indiana and Robin Sherman and her husband Raleigh Sherman of West Terre Haute; one sister, Clara Wells of Terre Haute; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was proceeded in death by his parents Glessa and Dessie Overton; three brothers, Cecil, Virgil, and Eugene; and one sister, Thelma.

Visitation was at the Newkirk Funeral Home in Dugger, Indiana on Thursday June 2, 2005.  He was cremated on June 3, 2005 and his ashes were buried June 4, 2005 in the Woodward Cemetery in Sullivan County, Indiana.  Rev. John Booker officiated at the grave side services.

Owen, Joseph Richard

Joseph Richard Owen, 90, of Skaneateles, New York, passed away on August 14, 2015, encircled by those he held most dear: his wife of 70 years, Dorothy; his children; his brother, Dennis; his close friends; and his cherished U.S. Marines.

Born in 1924 to Margaret and William Owen, ecent immigrants from Ireland and Wales, Owen was raised in Syracuse and graduated in 1942 from Christian Brothers Academy. He left college the next year, enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, and was soon tapped for Officers Candidates School.

After World War II, Owen returned to college on the G.I. Bill and graduated from Colgate University in 1948. He returned to active duty during the early days of the Korean War. As a second lieutenant, he helped lead rifle company Baker-One-Seven in bitter combat at the Chosin Reservoir. Ninety percent of the company’s 300 Marines were killed, wounded or captured. Owen himself was gravely injured and spent 17 months recuperating in U.S. naval hospitals. Sixty years later, he was awarded the Silver Star Medal “for gallantry and
intrepidity in armed combat.”

After reluctantly retiring from the Marine Corps, Owen embarked on a career in marketing, first with General Electric and later with his own agencies, Owen Mastropaul and the Joseph Owen Co. His clients included Kodak, Carrier, Polaroid, and Corning Glass.

After retirement, Owen wrote “Colder Than Hell,” an autobiographical account of the Chosin Reservoir conflict. It was published in 1996 by the Naval Institute Press and continues to be required reading at West Point and Officers Candidates School.

Among Owen’s most treasured memories are a year-long trek through Europe and Russia with his wife and six children. More recently, he relished the Saturday “salon” sessions in his Skaneateles library, where a spirited group of friends debated current events.

In addition to his wife and brother, Owen is survived by his sister, Maureen Louer. He also leaves six children: Dr. Michael Owen of Henderson Harbor; Denise (Kevin) Harrigan of Syracuse; Christopher (Patricia) Owen of Worcester, Vermont; Timothy Owen of Los Angeles, California; Dr. Mary (Dr. George) Babikian of Freeport, Maine; and Ann Owen of Skaneateles; as well as 17 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Calling hours will be 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Robert Gray Funeral Home in Skaneateles. There will be a memorial mass at 10 a.m. Monday St. Mary's Catholic Church, Skaneateles, followed by burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christian Brothers Academy, 6245 Randall Road, Syracuse, NY 13214.

Ott, Joseph

Sorry to inform you Joseph Ott has passed away. He died peacefully on June 28, and we will be having a burial service at Arlington National Cemetery -- details to follow. Please respond to PJSDECORUM@aol.com. - Thank you, Paul J. Schaeffer (nephew)