Robert M. Ostrowski

Robert Ostrowski, 86 of Portage, passed away on October 12, 2020 in his home. Robert was born in Buffalo, New York to John and Frances (Dynarski) Ostrowski on March 30, 1934. In May of 1951, he entered the Marine Corps. While on active duty, Robert served during Korean War, and earned a National Defense Service Medal. Robert worked as a machinist at Eaton Manufacturing in Kalamazoo for 28 years until his retirement. He then owned and operated Sherman’s Ice Cream Shop in Battle Creek—earning the nickname Grandpa Ice Cream. Lastly, he worked at Metropolitan Title Company with his daughter Lisa. He enjoyed playing cards, hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, traveling, history, and spending time with his 5 children. In his later years he also enjoyed following his grandchildren’s many educational and sporting activities. Robert also enjoyed volunteering at St. Vincent DePaul Society and projects for the Knights of Columbus. Robert and his family were charter member at St. Catherine of Sienna Church in Portage Michigan. He was united in marriage to his best friend and love of his life Lois Grace (Pike) Ostrowski on February 9, 1957 who survives him. Also surviving Robert are his children, Robert (Marsha) Ostrowski of Mattawan, Matthew (Diane) Ostrowski of Parchment, Lisa (Kyle) Suhr of Bonita Springs, Florida, Dr. Jack (John) (Leslie) Ostrowski of Belmont, Dr. Thomas (Meghan) Ostrowski of Richland; fourteen grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, as well as beloved nephew Rick (Judy) Kirkendall. He is preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters. Services will be Wednesday October 21, 2020 at St Catherine of Sienna Church in Portage Michigan: Rosary at 10:30am and Mass following at 11:00 am. There will be a short service at Fort Custer National Cemetery follow the church service at 1:00pm. Memorial donations may be made to St. Vincent DePaul of downtown Kalamazoo, Hospice of Southwest Michigan, or St Catherine’s of Sienna in Portage. Arrangements by Redmond Funeral Home, Kalamazoo.