Gary, Indiana
Orsten "Happy" Little "O" Artis Jr, age 75 of Gary, Indiana passed away at home on December 26, 2017. Orsten was a star basketball player for Frobel High School, from which he graduated in 1962. He also played on the historic 1966 Texas Western NCAA National Championship Team. Orsten taught in the Gary Public Schools and worked at US Steel. He served as one of Gary's finest - he was a police officer, then a detective for 27 years. After retiring from the Gary Police Department Orsten worked at the Lake County Court as a bailiff, later retiring due to health issues. He leaves to to cherish his loving memory, one son; Rex Erickson Brown, one granddaughter; in Santos, Brazil; sister, Robbie Dell Ward; brothers, Arthur (Deborah) Arti and James (Velata) Artis; and a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be Friday, January 5, 2018 from 12:00pm to 8:00pm at Smith Bizzell Warner Funeral Home in Gary, Indiana. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 11:00am at First Tabernacle MB Church 643 W. 41st Ave. Gary, Indiana 46408 Dr. Dyke Lee Sr., Pastor , Dr. Issac Culver officiating.
I remember a game between Froebel and Tolleston at memorial auditorium where Orsten hit about 7 straight baskets and so did Mckinney,the Twister.They took turns making baskets!!!!I never seen such a display.I just found out that he had passed away(02-18-25)May he rest in peace.To his family my condolences.
Angel D Lugo,ret. Police officer(Gary)
February 18, 2025 | Work
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. As I watch the movie Glory Days over and over again, It brings me joy and happiness. I know its been many years since 1966, I was 1 years old when this team one the championship, Im grateful to have come to know about this great man and team. God bless you all!
TROY NOLAN
June 30, 2020 | Friend
I just came upon Orstens obit. I grew up in Gary and went to Emerson High School and was fortunate to play with Harry Flournoy one year. Little O gave many thrills watching him play at Memorial. Sorry that he passed but he will always be remembered. Thanks Orsten for such great memories
Robert Ricard
December 23, 2019 | Orlando, FL
After seeing the movie "Glory Road". The last name Artis is not like Jones or Smith, so I wonder if there is some relation to us. My uncle was Britt Artis, my father was Wilson Ruben Artis. I'm sorry I didn't know my grandfather on that side. I wish I had seen the movie before Orsten passed away. Hope to hear from someone on that side.
Carlene Artis-LaBudde
January 13, 2019 | Milwaukee, WI | Family
Road and life of Glory!
Camille
July 28, 2018
To the Artis family.
I was very sadden to learn of Orsten's passing. We became acquainted as fellow Gary Police Officers. I grew up with the Artis family in East Chicago, a fine family. Orsten was a good and caring person to all. He will be sorely missed.
Clemmon Julkes & family
Salem, Al.
January 10, 2018
A true classy man. A Gary In legend. God bless him and condolences to his familiy.
Darwin Cox
January 10, 2018 | Frisco, TX
To the Artis family. Sorry for your lost and you are in my prayers.
Linda Wilson
January 06, 2018 | Virginia Beach, VA
On Behalf of the Froebel Class of 1965...We send Our Condolences to the Family of Orsten Artis..."Little O"..
Many are the Cheers that were sent up from the seats of Memorial Auditorium during the Basketball Games and the HOURS of Enjoyment as we watched him compete on Our Team in the "Holiday Tournaments"...
Although we were Underclassmen, I shall Forever remember His SMILE as he graced the Halls of Froebel High School and Greeted Us One and ALL...Our Prayers go out to the Family...May...
Lena Patterson Smith
January 06, 2018 | Griffith, IN
