Dean Ostendorf

Dean I. Ostendorf, age 86, of Platteville, passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2013, at the Southwest Health Center in Platteville from Alzheimers disease. Dean was born on July 1, 1927 in Smelser Township, WI, a son of William F. & Katherine A. (Schultz) Ostendorf. He married Joan Trentz on October 22, 1955 at St. Marys Catholic Church in Platteville.

Dean left Platteville High School after completing his sophomore year. He worked by helping farmers, and also worked at the Dubuque Packing Company. In 1944 Dean joined the Merchant Marines. He sailed the seas until October, 1950. Then in January of 1951, Dean was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served as a surgical technician in Germany until he was discharged in December of 1952. His employment upon discharge was with Williams Tree Service for twenty years. At that time, Dean purchased the business and continued until September, 1989.

In retirement, and even prior to that, Dean enjoyed a cabin in Fifield, WI. He loved to fish and deer hunt, and also enjoyed racing his boat. Dean was a member of the Elks Lodge, American Legion Post #42, VFW Post #5274, and a retired fifteen year veteran of the Platteville Fire Department.

Dean is survived by his wife of 57 years, Joan of Platteville; three sons, Michael, Patrick (Jennifer), both of Platteville, and Thomas of Janesville; two daughters, Susan Buck of Cross Plains, and Lisa, at home in Platteville; nine grandchildren; a great-grandchild; a brother, William of Willow Springs, MO; a sister, Joyce Austin of Monroe; and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives & friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 am on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at St. Marys Catholic Church in Platteville, with Fr. Faustino Ruiz officiating. Burial will take place at a later date in Calvary Cemetery, Platteville. Friends called from 9 am until the time of service Saturday at the church. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Platteville, is assisting the family.

In lieu of plants and flowers, a memorial has been established for The Alzheimers Association, Platteville Special Olympics, or a charity of your choice.