James D. Oosterkamp

James Douglas Oosterkamp, age 62, of Erie, unexpectedly passed away and joined Our Lord in the embrace of eternity on Saturday, July 20th, 2024. 

He was born in Erie on September 25, 1961, a son to the late Steven J. Sr. and Joyce (Urmann) Oosterkamp. 

Jim was the life of the party. He was a selfless, loving, caring man. He lived life to the fullest, and cherished every moment with his family and friends. His personality would brighten a room the moment he walked in. Jim attended Tech Memorial High School. In 1998 he married the love of his life, Kara, on Valentine’s Day. His children and family were his pride and joy. He started every morning by making breakfast for his beloved children. He was an avid bicycle rider, who spent many days riding around Presque Isle State Park, admiring the beauty of our lake. When he wasn’t outside enjoying life, he was supporting the Cleveland Browns, watching Nascar races or at Lucky’s Drag Strip. He enjoyed playing the guitar for friends and family. You could often find him at the horse races, supporting his favorite jockey, Willie Martinez. One of his favorite things was to go on ice cream dates with their family dog, Marsha. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Kris Oosterkamp. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Kara Oosterkamp; three daughters, Nicole Renee, Tara Rose, and Kayla Marie Oosterkamp; his grandson, Armani James; two brothers, Steven J. Jr. and Bob Oosterkamp (Korie); two sisters, Diane Folmar and Linda Oosterkamp (Tim). He is further survived by several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and his mother-in-law Charlotte Kneidinger; along with several brother and sister-in-laws. 

Jim, your life was a profound blessing, your memory a cherished treasure. Your love was unconditional, your kindness boundless, and your laughter infectious. These qualities will forever be etched in our hearts. You touched our lives in countless ways, and we will carry your spirit with us every day. Though we ache with sorrow, we find solace in the enduring memory of your love. If tears could build a stairway and memories pave a path, we would walk straight to heaven and bring you back home. Your presence will be deeply missed, but your love will live on in us forever. Fly high and rock on, my dear bunny. We will love you forever. 

Family and friends may call at the Burton Quinn-Scott Funeral Home - West Ridge, 3801 W. 26th St., Erie on Friday, July 26th from 2pm - 4pm and from 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Everyone is invited to attend a mass at St. Jude Church, 2801 W. 6th St., Erie on Saturday at 10am. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in care of the Burton Quinn-Scott Funeral Home - West Ridge. 

Please send memorials using this link and sign the online guestbook below.