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Thomas Osburn Obituary
Thomas Lee "Ozzy" Osburn, 72, was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandpa, and friend. He passed away at home May 26, 2021. Tom was born November 16, 1948, to Rudolph & Agnes (Daly) Osburn in Indianapolis. Tom attended elementary school at St. Philip Neri and then played basketball for Scecina High School, where he graduated in 1966. In 1968, while a postal worker, he delivered his own draft letter. He served the Army in Vietnam until he was seriously injured by a land mine on February 23, 1969, losing both legs. After healing, he started playing professional wheelchair basketball in 1971 for the Indianapolis Olympians. Following that, he played for the Indy Mustangs and helped them win the National Championship in 1973, '74, and '75. He finished his career by briefly playing for the Black Knights in Illinois On December 18, 1971, he married Elizabeth Wagner of Rushville. Tom was an avid sports fan and music lover. He was Neil Young's biggest fan. His son, Neil, and he shared a love for Notre Dame football and IU Basketball, rarely missing watching a game together. He had long conversations with his daughter, Jessica, about all genres of music. He and Liz enjoyed watching the backyard birds together while chatting. He was an active member of the youth sports community in New Palestine, helping coach Babe Ruth league and youth basketball. Besides his wife and children, Tom is survived by his grandsons, Gabriel & Liam, Jim Aikman (BIL), Kathy Wagner (SIL), Tom (Elaine) Wagner (BIL), Mike (Tammy) Wagner (BIL), cousins, nieces, & nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents and sister, Judy Aikman. A casual celebration of life service is planned for June 19th at the New Palestine Lion's Club from 1-5PM, with a memorial service held at 3PM. Please wear fan gear (sports or music) or patriotic shirts in honor of Tom. Donations can be made to Indiana Folds of Honor or to the Judy Osburn Aikman Scholarship Fund, 037-0477, 1400 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Osburn
4 Entries
Gabriel
March 25, 2022
Papoo was a joyful, funny, and brave person. I miss him desperately. :( But I won´t cry because it´s over, I will smile because I met him. Miss you, Papoo.
Lenny (hippie)
June 21, 2021
I served with Tom in Viet Nam, we were in the same squad, so we became close quickly. I trusted him with my life. Miss you.Rest In Peace, brother.
Jean Sehr Scotten
June 18, 2021
Liz,
You came into Tommy’s life when he most needed someone. Your wedding was beautiful and You are such a wonderful person.
Tommy was a fabulous ball player in high school and after returning from Vietnam. He was dealt a hard life and suffered many years. I hope he’s found peace now.
Tommy, my brother, parents, Agnes and Rudy and their beautiful daughter all together again.
Love to you and your family.
Jean Sehr Scotten
Andrew Charnstrom
June 16, 2021
Tom was a genuinely good guy, a great coach for kids, and funny, honest and decent. I'm sorry for the loss of such a good husband and father and friend.
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