Shirley Ostermann

Shirley Jean (Kuchenreuther) Ostermann, age 85, of Corning, CA, formerly of Buffalo Center, passed away Monday, August 10, 2020, in Corning, California, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. A funeral will be private, though a visitation will be held at First Baptist Church on Friday, Aug. 28, from 3 to 5 p.m. in Forest City.

Shirley was born Feb. 2, 1935, in Algona, the daughter of Harold and DeVeda (Bilsborough) Kuchenreuther. She graduated from Algona High School in 1953 and met her future husband, Gene, at a skating rink in Algona that same year. They married in 1955 in Waukegan, IL, and soon moved back to the farm. There they raised four children and built a wonderful life together. Their marriage lasted until Gene’s death nearly five years ago, one week shy of their 60th anniversary. She and Gene sought to honor Jesus Christ in every aspect of their life together.

Shirley had a great gift for hospitality. Her home was often full of guests who were greeted with good food and a warm welcome. The freezer was always well stocked for guests. She was a vibrant woman who loved flowers and rich colors, especially purple. The Christmas sweaters she chose for her grandchildren often reflected that preference. She also sewed many clothes and sweaters that are treasured keepsakes. Shirley was also known for her sass. When she thought someone was getting a little too big for their britches, she would roll her eyes, cluck her tongue, and let out a loving-but-exasperated, “Well…”

She is survived by her daughter, Deb (Bruce) Miller of Corning, CA; son, Michael (Karla) Ostermann of Clyde, KS; son, Scott (Pat) Ostermann of Woden; sisters: Karen Hammer and Barbara Davis; brother, Larry; brother-in-law, Wayne (Anna); 17 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Gene; son, Stephen; and two brothers, Jerry and James; sister, Phyllis, and brother-in-law, Donald Ostermann.