Donald Osness

Donald K Osness, 88, of 11 W. Merrill Ave., Tomahawk, passed away Sunday, January 13, 2013 at Ministry St. Clare's Hospital in Weston. Don was born on June 26, 1924 in Merrill to Alvin and Mildred (Schmidt) Osness. He was married to Joyce V. Skare on July 6, 1946 in Wausau, Wisconsin. Don was a veteran of the US Army, serving during World War II. He and his father had owned a livestock business in Merrill and later they owned and operated the Ford dealership in Tomahawk. He had worked for the City of Tomahawk as Building Inspector; he was a former Tomahawk City Council member, Lincoln County Board member, and Tomahawk Fire and Police Commission member. He also had been the Chairman of the Commission on Aging and had served on the Pine Crest Board of Directors. Don was instrumental in forming the Northwoods Council to promote tourism in northern Wisconsin. He had been a pilot in his younger years, he also enjoyed golfing, trout fishing, reading, old movies, traveling, woodworking, coffee at LaNou's restaurant and lunch at Elaine's. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church and had sung in the church choir for many years. Survivors include: Wife, Joyce 3 Daughters, Donna Winker Merrill Deanna (Rick) Day Wausau Wendy (Butch) Black Harshaw 4 Grandchildren, Maggie Haimann, Ben Winker, Shawn Black, and Ryan Black. Don is further survived by 4 Great Grandchildren. Funeral services with military rites for Don Osness will be held on Wednesday, January 16th at 11:00 a.m. from Grace Lutheran Church. Pastor Mark Ziemer will officiate. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in the spring. The family will receive friends at the church Wednesday morning from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m. Memorials are appreciated to Tomahawk Public Library or Grace Lutheran Church.