Obituary for Donald Aaron Eldor Ostlund
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Donald Aaron Eldor Ostlund announce his sudden passing.
In the early hours of December 31, 2021, heaven called this fisherman home.
Don was born in Baudette, Minnesota on June 21, 1957. Don was raised in Morson, Ontario until the age of 8 when his family relocated to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
It was these primary years spent on the lake with his grandparents that created a love for Lake of the Woods that would continue until his last breath. Don spent every moment he could camping, boating, swimming and fishing on this lake. He shared these moments with his children from the time they were young. These would be life changing times for them not only because of the lessons learned, but from the vulnerable talks and love he shared on these special trips. These trips changed from tents on Slate Island to houseboat adventures, and finally to the dream cabin that he and Sandra built later in life.
This cabin was a place filled with laughter, fish frys and the many children over the years that had the absolute blessing to be raised in part by Don.
Don dedicated his life to children. He advocated for, raised and counseled countless children who were placed in the loving care of his foster home. These children instantly became family and were loved deeply by him. Don also spent over 20 years working within the educational system as an EA extraordinaire.
Mr. O was a fixture in the school and community who was adored by students and peers alike.
It was only recently that he and Sandra embarked on a new journey that involved one of his other greatest passions, cooking.
In the fall of 2021, Don and Sandra purchased a hotel and restaurant near Falcon Lake, Manitoba where he so peacefully exclaimed he had found his 'happy place'
He loved experimenting in the kitchen and showing his love by sharing the creations he carefully cooked. In the short time he was there, he already made strong friendships in the community.
This was something he was known most for. His boisterous personality and ability to make friends anywhere. Quick trips to the convenience store would often turn into hours long adventures as he began chatting with new people and learning as much about them as he possibly could. He was a genuine friend who walked the walk, not just talked the talk. He would share anything with someone in need and he did this for no other reason than the love he had for everyone in his life.
Don was a proud father and he never let a moment pass without telling his children how special and important they were. These bonds were deeply rooted and as unimaginable as it seems, there were people he loved more. His grandbabies.
He loved being a grampa and this was his most special role in life. He became a grampa young, and it was a badge he wore so proudly. He never raised his voice or showed disappointment to any of them. He only ever reminded them that they were perfect in every way. This unconditional love will carry his 4 grandbabies forever.
Don leaves to mourn his loving wife of over 35 years, Sandra. He loved and adored her in a way that made their love seem new even after all their years of love.
His daughter Candace (Dean) granddaughters Chynna (Brenden), Brianna (Rodney) and her daughters Olive and Pepper
Son Marlon (Meghan) grandsons Presley and Parker
Son Frank
Sister Linda
Mother in law Anna
Numerous nieces, nephews, brothers and sister in laws and friends.
Our loss is the gain of his 4 fur babies that got a head start to heaven. We know he is getting an overload of puppy love from his angels Zodie, Clyde, Junior and Scarlett.
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, the family will be holding a private ceremony on Friday, January 7 at 10 am by invitation only. Proof of double vaccination will be required for all those attending.
The service will be livestreamed so those who wish to participate can join in. The link will be shared by the family when available.
Interment and a celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2022 which will be announced at a later date for those not included at this time.
In the early hours of December 31, 2021, heaven called this fisherman home.
Don was born in Baudette, Minnesota on June 21, 1957. Don was raised in Morson, Ontario until the age of 8 when his family relocated to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
It was these primary years spent on the lake with his grandparents that created a love for Lake of the Woods that would continue until his last breath. Don spent every moment he could camping, boating, swimming and fishing on this lake. He shared these moments with his children from the time they were young. These would be life changing times for them not only because of the lessons learned, but from the vulnerable talks and love he shared on these special trips. These trips changed from tents on Slate Island to houseboat adventures, and finally to the dream cabin that he and Sandra built later in life.
This cabin was a place filled with laughter, fish frys and the many children over the years that had the absolute blessing to be raised in part by Don.
Don dedicated his life to children. He advocated for, raised and counseled countless children who were placed in the loving care of his foster home. These children instantly became family and were loved deeply by him. Don also spent over 20 years working within the educational system as an EA extraordinaire.
Mr. O was a fixture in the school and community who was adored by students and peers alike.
It was only recently that he and Sandra embarked on a new journey that involved one of his other greatest passions, cooking.
In the fall of 2021, Don and Sandra purchased a hotel and restaurant near Falcon Lake, Manitoba where he so peacefully exclaimed he had found his 'happy place'
He loved experimenting in the kitchen and showing his love by sharing the creations he carefully cooked. In the short time he was there, he already made strong friendships in the community.
This was something he was known most for. His boisterous personality and ability to make friends anywhere. Quick trips to the convenience store would often turn into hours long adventures as he began chatting with new people and learning as much about them as he possibly could. He was a genuine friend who walked the walk, not just talked the talk. He would share anything with someone in need and he did this for no other reason than the love he had for everyone in his life.
Don was a proud father and he never let a moment pass without telling his children how special and important they were. These bonds were deeply rooted and as unimaginable as it seems, there were people he loved more. His grandbabies.
He loved being a grampa and this was his most special role in life. He became a grampa young, and it was a badge he wore so proudly. He never raised his voice or showed disappointment to any of them. He only ever reminded them that they were perfect in every way. This unconditional love will carry his 4 grandbabies forever.
Don leaves to mourn his loving wife of over 35 years, Sandra. He loved and adored her in a way that made their love seem new even after all their years of love.
His daughter Candace (Dean) granddaughters Chynna (Brenden), Brianna (Rodney) and her daughters Olive and Pepper
Son Marlon (Meghan) grandsons Presley and Parker
Son Frank
Sister Linda
Mother in law Anna
Numerous nieces, nephews, brothers and sister in laws and friends.
Our loss is the gain of his 4 fur babies that got a head start to heaven. We know he is getting an overload of puppy love from his angels Zodie, Clyde, Junior and Scarlett.
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, the family will be holding a private ceremony on Friday, January 7 at 10 am by invitation only. Proof of double vaccination will be required for all those attending.
The service will be livestreamed so those who wish to participate can join in. The link will be shared by the family when available.
Interment and a celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2022 which will be announced at a later date for those not included at this time.