Ron Osterlitz

Ron Osterlitz 79, passed away peacefully at home with loving family at his side on Tuesday, November 2, 2021.

Ron was born April 18, 1942 to the late George and Gertrude (neé Lucier) Osterlitz, and raised in Rotterdam.

He was proud to be in the first graduating class (1960) of Mohonasen High School. He served in the Army from 1964-1966 and married Angela Damiano in 1969, who predeceased him in 1991. Together they raised their beloved daughter Michelle.

Ron worked for Niagara Mohawk, starting in the gas department and ending his career as a serviceman in the Mont Pleasant neighborhood. He knew every house and was loved by the residents. After retirement he worked summers for his friend Mark Lansing at Jumpin' Jacks, then as a teacher's aide in the gym at Northeast Parent's Grout Park School. He could beat all the kids at basketball.

Ron loved people, his family and being home. He could start a conversation with a stranger and always find a connection or mutual friend. He never raised his voice or argued and often said, if you have your health, nothing else matters. He enjoyed visits to the casino with his friend Doug and niece Reneé; his teams, the Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Browns, and Golden State Warriors; summer vacations at Glen Lake; and events at the Clifton Park Elks, where he was a member.

Ron was predeceased by his parents, first wife Angie and his beloved brother George. He is survived by his wife Audrey; his daughter Michelle (JT) Pollard; granddaughters Hayden, Charley, Avery and Sawyer; son Thomas (Sandy) Thorne and grandchildren Tommy and Milan Thorne; Bryan Horn, Shelby Horn, and Logan Peek; daughter Lisa Thorne and grandson Jordan Damore; first great granddaughter Nola Rena Thorne; and niece Reneé Osterlitz. He will be missed by a large family of dear friends – his buddy through thick and thin, Doug Griset; high school friend Paul Meier; NiMo friends Dave Fuller, Mike Green, Earl Groat, Jack Keller, Jimmy Persons and Frankie Tommell.

Ron and Audrey wish to express their thanks to Dr. Peter Rienzi, and their deepest gratitude to Dr. Gerstenbluth, who provided excellent care and was a good friend.

A memorial service will be held at Bekkering-Ellis Funeral Home in Scotia at 9:15 am on Monday, November 8, and thence to Saratoga National Cemetery for military service at 11:00 a.m.

Calling hours are Sunday, November 7 from 3 to 5 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in Ron's memory may be made to the Clifton Park Elks Veterans Fund.

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