Alexius "Alex" M. Osterhaus

Alexius Alex M. Osterhaus, age 93, of Bloomington, died on Wednesday, September 14, 2011, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster. He was born on April 13, 1918, in Iowa, the son of Henry and Cecelia (Klosterman) Osterhaus. Alex attended school at St. Marys Catholic School in Bloomington. He helped build St. Marys Catholic Church also in Bloomington. On June 6, 1942, Alex was united in marriage to Hildegarde Sis Felder at St. Marys Catholic Church. After their marriage the couple farmed in Bloomington Township. They enjoyed square dancing and traveling following their retirement. Alex enjoyed carpentry work and woodworking. Spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were one of his greatest joys.

Survivors include his six children: Ken (Kandi) Osterhaus, Cedar Rapids, IA; Joan (Dennis) Bierman, Glen Haven; William (Terri) Osterhaus, Belmont, MA; Virginia (Louis) Pohle, San Antonio, TX; James Osterhaus, Madison; and Mary (Don) Alcorn, Lancaster; seventeen grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Irene Osterhaus, Bloomington; other relatives and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Alex was preceded in death by his wife, a son, Tommy, two grandsons, Danny Osterhaus and David Bierman, and his brothers and sisters.

Funeral services were held on Monday, September 19, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Bloomington with Father John Meinholz officiating. Burial was in St. Mary's Cemetery, Bloomington. Family and friends called on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church. Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington is assisting the family.