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BORN
1948
DIED
2019
David Ostrander Obituary
He was born in Northville on March 30, 1948 to Paul and Dorothy Ostrander. Dave graduated from Redford Union High School in 1966.
He began opening and running his own restaurants and pizzerias in his 20s. He owned Big Dave's Pizzeria in Oscoda for 25 plus years and then began to share his knowledge with other operators around the United States and overseas and became a full time pizza consultant. He had been retired for several years but continued to assist other pizza operators from home.
Dave was an active member of the Oscoda Township Fire Department for over 30 years. He also enjoyed camping and fishing with his family. He was a social person who was never hesitant to help someone and opened his heart and wallet many times to those in need. He loved to swap stories and visit with people. He was married to Linda Ostrander for 38 years.
He is survived by children, Michael, Eric (Jenny Huynh), Kevin (Fiona Paner), Jason, David Jr. (Erin Farleigh), Angela (Tim Coakley) and Mandy (Fernando Donis). He is also survived by five grandchildren, Julia, Reina, Megan, Zachary and Sophia. In addition, he is survived by two brothers, Mark (Shelia) Ostrander, and Joel (Pam) Ostrander, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his in-laws and a brother.
Dave was a big man with a big heart. Per his wishes he will be cremated and there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor his memory may donate to either the Oscoda Education Foundation at www.oscodaeducationfoundation.org/donate, which is setting up a scholarship in his name, or to the Oscoda Township Fire Department Dive Team.
Condolences may be offered online at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Ostrander
5 Entries
STEVEN M. BONDS
June 30, 2024
Linda and family,
I am just finding out about this right now. I am so sorry for your loss. You don't know me but I worked for Dave when he had his pizzeria in Tawas City near the lake then he moved to a new building in East Tawas. I briefly knew his two oldest daughters. Working for Dave was great. Such a kind guy and he was great to work for. He was also a great teacher on learning how to make pizza from the dough, sauce and all the way up to the end product. I still dream of the pizza. It was one of the best I have ever had and still have not had any better. I saw Dave on the Food Network as a judge a few years back, I think it was around 2018 and I wrote to him and he still remembered me. We had a brief talk and it was great talking to him again. I was always hoping to see him in person again but it never happened. I am so sorry for your loss and pray that you and your family have healed and are doing well. Take care!
Ken and Debbie Gilbert
August 7, 2019
Linda and family,
So sorry for your loss. May the Lord comfort you in your grief.
August 3, 2019
Linda, I am so sorry for your loss.
August 2, 2019
Linda and family, we are so sorry to hear of Dave's passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during these sad days.
Bill and Bobbie Christman
Jill Dorcey
July 31, 2019
Linda and Children: Dave was a wonderful gentleman. When I first met him as our sons played AYSO soccer, I thought he was a special Dad to his children. I also met Linda at the same time, and I could see the love they had for each other. Dave was such a positive individual and this attitude was what he carried in his pizza business and all his many commitments to Oscoda. He will be missed by all who knew him.
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