Marvin Ostenson Obituary
Marvin J. Ostenson, 98, of South Beloit, IL, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, following a brief illness. Born on May 23, 1927, in Orfordville, WI, Marvin was the beloved son of Clarence and Nellie Ostenson. Though his formal education ended after the fourth grade, Marvin's life was rich in purpose and dedication. At a young age, he left school to help work on his family's farm-an early testament to his strong work ethic and commitment to those he loved.
A proud veteran, Marvin enlisted in the United States Army and served with honor during World War II. Stationed in Germany until the war's end in 1945, he was later Honorably Discharged, holding his service to his country as one of his greatest sources of pride. Marvin spent much of his working life with Beloit Corporation, where he was a dedicated employee until his retirement in 1992. In his well-earned retirement, he embraced the simple joys of life: casting a line while fishing, engaging in a lively game of Euchre, and-above all-cherishing time with his family.
Faith was the cornerstone of Marvin's life. A devoted man of God, he found strength and solace in his church community and lived each day with kindness and purpose. He found peace in nature-planting flowers, pulling weeds, and watching the birds that graced his yard. He was deeply passionate about politics and remained actively engaged in issues he cared about throughout his life. Marvin's generous spirit extended beyond his personal life. He was a proud supporter of the Big Fish Foundation, a charity devoted to helping veterans find connection, healing, and growth within their communities.
Marvin shared 45 loving years of marriage with his first wife, Mavis Ostenson, until her passing. He was later blessed to share 19 meaningful years with his second wife, Vida Ostenson. Marvin will be remembered for his unwavering faith, enduring strength, deep patriotism, and the quiet joy he found in everyday moments. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to give special thanks to the doctors and nurses at Beloit Hospital and the VA clinic for their tender love and care.
Marvin is survived by his daughters, Lynette (Jim) Loven and Sandra (Matt) Stevens; grandchildren, Torrie Gullikson (Steve), Tracy (Chad) Meffert, and Johnathan Bosze; great-grandchildren, Joshua Aaron Richter, Kayla (Jake), Kasi (Jeremiah), Erica; many great-grandchildren; siblings, Doris, Norma, MaryJane, and Albert; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his 2 wives, Mavis and Vida; 3 sons, Ron, Richard, and Jimmy Ostenson; and parents, Clarence and Nellie Ostenson.
A visitation will be held for Marvin on August 14, 2025, at Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory–Roscoe Chapel, 11342 Main Street, Roscoe, IL, 61073, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The funeral service will take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Christ Our Savior Church, 5506 Reimer Dr., Roscoe, IL 61073, at 11:00 AM, with a visitation starting at 10:00 AM until the time of service. Burial will immediately follow the service at Floral Lawn Cemetery.
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Published by WREX on Aug. 12, 2025.