James "Jim" Ostrowski

The Wisconsin River lost its greatest captain. James R. Ostrowski passed away Saturday, April 15th, 2023, at Marshfield Hospital. He was born on October 5th, 1949 to the late Elgean and Barney Ostrowski. Growing up, he attended PJ Jacobs High School and later married his high school sweetheart Susan (Grzesiak) Ostrowski on November 25th, 1967. Throughout their 55 years of marriage together, he always enjoyed spoiling her. They made many memories traveling to different places, though in particular, enjoyed spending time on the beach with each other.
Jim began working at pizza restaurants when he was 16, advancing his way to management, and eventually transitioning to a career at Basic American Foods for 30 years. He finished out his career at Joerns before retirement, and recently enjoyed his time working as a bailiff in the Stevens Point Court System.
Jim was a 2-time Exalted Ruler and District Deputy at the Stevens Point Elks Lodge who truly enjoyed his time volunteering and serving his community. Beyond this, he served on the board of directors for PCYOI and coached girls' softball with PWYA.
Jim's main focus in life was his family. They came first in everything he did. His grandchildren were the light of his life. He never missed an opportunity to attend any events they were involved in, and continually bragged about how proud he was of each and every one of them. Jim was able to live out his retirement dream living on the water taking daily pontoon rides, enjoying time with his grandkids, and giving out free life advice to any who would listen. Christmas and 4th of July proved to be his favorite times, due to everyone in his family gathering together playing games, enjoying bonfires, and creating memories. Jim always had a smile on his face. He was a friend to all, and his laughter and jokes will be greatly missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gregory Ostrowski.
He is survived by his loving wife Susan, and their three children: Tracy (Joseph) Ramcheck, Kurt (Aline) Ostrowski, and Kelly (Jason Hassler) Ostrowski. Grandchildren: Nick (Haley) Ramcheck, Haley Ramcheck, Paige and Mitchell Ostrowski, Jesse, Sydney and Cortny Trzebiatowski and Kalin Hassler. Great-grandchild: Ridge Ramcheck. His brother: Jerry (Kris) Ostrowski. Sister-in-law: Marie Ostrowski. Brother-in-law: Garry (Kris) Grzesiak. Sister-in-law: Jane (Pete) Laux. Along with many more nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff at Marshfield Hospital for all of their care and support. A Mass of Christian Burial for James will be held at 11:00AM on Thursday April 20, 2023, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church-2151 Stanley Street, Stevens Point. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of service. Rev Steve Bryce will be officiating. Burial will take place at a later date in the Guardian Angel Cemetery. Immediately following the Mass, a celebration of life for Jim will take place at the Sky Club at 2202 Post Road in Plover until 5:00 PM.
The Pisarski Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family.
For online condolences please visit www.pisarskifuneralhome.com