Hans-Georg Franz Ostendorp

Ostendorp

Hans-Georg Franz Ostendorp

Hans-Georg Franz Ostendorp, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 18, 2023, at the age of 85. Born on June 12, 1937, in Bocholt, Germany, to Johann and Helene (Grünwald) Ostendorp, he was raised in Wilhelmshaven, Germany and emigrated to the United States in 1955.

Hans-Georg served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958, and became a naturalized citizen in 1960. Shortly thereafter, he welcomed son Vince and daughter Tammy. In the early 1960s, he began his long and storied career at Aerolab, where he worked for nearly 60 years. During his tenure, he gained a reputation as a highly respected engineer, known for his technical expertise, attention to detail, and strong work ethic. He mentored many young engineers over the years and was widely regarded as an outstanding mentor and role model. Hans-Georg was recognized as one of the world's foremost experts on pyramidal balances, and frequent requests for his consulting expertise kept him busy well into his retirement years.

While on a trip to visit an Aerolab client site in Taiwan, Hans-Georg met the love of his life, Yu Ching (Emma) Hsaio, whom he married in Taipei on February 3, 1981. Together, they made their home in Laurel, MD and welcomed three sons, Hans-Dieter, Jurgen, and Gunter.

Hans-Georg was an accomplished woodworker, eagerly taking on home improvement projects that would be daunting even to an experienced craftsman. Over the years, he constructed several additions to the family home, continuing his most challenging projects well into his 70s. He also enjoyed working outdoors, taking pride in the beautiful and welcoming landscapes that he created. Always extremely physically fit, he regularly accompanied his sons to the gym, where he never failed to impress those around him with his considerable strength. He was also a talented vocalist, and particularly enjoyed the music of Englebert Humperdink.

Hans-Georg's proudest achievement of all was his family, and he was happiest when spending time with his wife and children. He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Emma; his daughter, Tammy (George) Forristall; his sons, Hans-Dieter (Courtney Carter) Ostendorp, Jurgen Ostendorp, and Gunter (Katie Klebba) Ostendorp; his grandsons, Nathan and Nicholas Forristall; his siblings, Walter (Marianne) Ostendorp, Elsbeth (the late Herbert) Reineke, Udo (Sandra) Steudtner, Eva-Marie (Ismail) Narin, and Karin (Frank) Reap; and countless other family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son George Vincent Ostendorp, and his sister Erika DeCarlo. A private Celebration of Life will be held later this year. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (pulmonaryfibrosis.org)

Hans-Georg will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, a brilliant colleague, and an expert craftsman. His warmth, generosity, and excellent sense of humor will be greatly missed by all who knew him.