Mary Ostby Obituary

Mary Ellen Ostby December 30th, 1921 – October 25th, 2003


When I think about my aunt, Mary Ellen Ostby, I think about a natural athlete, a fun-loving person with a great sense of humor, a woman who had little use for unnecessary talk and the material things of this world, and, above all, a unique soul who loved people unconditionally and demonstrated that love through her unselfish deeds to the very end of her life. Like her dear father Frank Vandenoever, Mary Ellen took great pleasure in giving away her worldly possessions to people she felt needed them more.

When I was a boy living in Chicago, I had the good fortune to spend some summer and Christmas vacation weeks “out in the country” at the Ostby’s house in Lansing, Illinois. Aunt Mary Ellen and Uncle Ken made me welcome and comfortable by not making any kind of big deal of me being there. It was during these fun times that I discovered Mary Ellen could run, hit, throw and catch better than most people, male or female. She also did this awesome thing where she could bend at the waist and without bending her knees touch her elbows to the floor (the only show-offy thing she ever did). Mary Ellen was one of a few special women who taught me that women are not equal to men, but that in so many ways they are superior!

The loss of her daughter Kathryn led Mary Ellen to her decades of service to special people. Her dedicated administrative and teaching service to Blue Cap School began in 1967 and continued to the end of her life. Again, like her father, Mary Ellen simply didn’t know how to retire. She would tell you Blue Cap taught her the meaning of life—that in giving selflessly of oneself, one receives infinitely more. The love and friendship and satisfaction Mary Ellen received from her students and her colleagues at Blue Cap School, along with her own loving family, were her “worldly treasures”.

We can praise God that Mary Ellen Ostby did not suffer long, never spent a day in a nursing home and, best of all, that the finest parts of this amazing child of God live on in her children Ken, Lance, Keith, Kimberly and her extended family and all the special people of Blue Cap School whom she cherished.

By now Mary Ellen would say, “Shut up, Richard.” She wasn’t much for talking the talk; her wonderful life was all about walking the walk. Remember her by your deeds.


Submitted with love and appreciation,

Richard Nolan, Mary Ellen’s nephew

Aunt Mary Ellen,



Even though we didn't get to see you a lot the past few years, you will be greatly missed. Seeing the chapel at your service overflowing with friends and family proved that you truly were an amazing women who touched the lives of so many. Say hello to Uncle Ken and the rest of the family for us ok.

Love, Doug, Barb, Becky, Christy and Michael.

Mrs. O, I will remember you always. You're kindness and generosity will never be forgotten. Our birthday will always be our special day. Love, Kathy

Mary Ellyn:

We have been away from each other for so many years and it is only during those years that I learned what a truly wonderful person you are. Without you, I would never have known the joy of my own children (your grandchildren) and I will always be indebted to you for that. I know you are with our Saviour -- give my love to all of my family too!

Love, Marilyn

Mrs. Ostby was a very good friend to me. She helped me at Blue Cap all the time. She was a very special and caring person and I will miss her so much. God Bless her family. Love, Terry

Kim & Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was a very special person and will be missed. Boy, talk about bringing back memories!

I will see you later today.

Godspeed Mary Ellen.

Deepest sympathy at this succession of sorrows.

I loved my grandma a lot. I just wanted to say that she was an amazing woman and she is in a better place.

Dear Mom:

Words cannot express how much I will miss you - my best friend. Our world will never be the same, yet I know you are now in a better place watching over all of us. I will do my best to carry on your legacy of simplicity, humility and unconditional love for all. Give Dad and Kathryn a big hug from me.

All my love,

Kim