John Van Osdol

John William Van Osdol (Jack to many), a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and Navy veteran, passed away peacefully on September 23 at the age of 82. Born on September 13, 1942 to the late Gilbert and Mary Van Osdol, he spent 59 wonderful years as a devoted husband to his high school sweetheart, Carol and father to his three children Kristin, Johnny and David. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and memories.

In addition to his loving wife, Carol, he is survived by his daughter Kristin and her husband Matthew and his son David and his wife Marla. In addition to his two surviving children and their spouses, he was most lovingly known as “Papa” to his grandchildren. He leaves behind Jessica, Rebecca, John, Nathaniel, Anna and Jared.

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy. As a Navy veteran, my father exemplified the values of service and dedication. He was proud of his time in the Navy, and that sense of duty stayed with him throughout his life. He carried himself with quiet dignity, never asking for recognition, but always showing up for those who needed him. He truly was a man of honor.

After his time in the Navy, he became a steadfast figure for his family, always providing support, guidance, and love. He was a hero to his children and grandchildren, who will forever remember his strength, wisdom, and unwavering love. After serving he began a career at the telephone company as a lineman assigner. From there he became a union business agent for IBEW local 2222 who was well respected and fought hard for his people. He ended his career as a local union rep for Cape Cod hospitals ensuring that every person he represented was treated fairly and with respect.

My father was also a man who found joy in the simple things. His love for sports was legendary in our family. He was an avid fan of the Patriots, the Red Sox, Boston College, and UCF football. Game days were sacred in our house, and some of our fondest memories are of sitting together, cheering for his favorite teams. He shared that passion with all of us, and it became a way for us to bond, to laugh, and to celebrate together.

Florida was a place that held a special place in his heart, and it became a second home in many ways. He was so proud of his granddaughters, who graduated from UCF, and spending time with them in Florida brought him so much joy. He and my mother became snow birds in Tarpon Springs and made forever friends that celebrated St. Patty’s day every year in Dunedin. Vermont was another place that brought him happiness, especially when he could spend time there with my brother and his grandchildren. He was an avid skier and never passed up the opportunity to ski with family and friends at Tenney Mountain. Whether in the sunshine of Florida or the peaceful mountains of Vermont, my father always found a way to make every moment special.

John was preceded in death by his son John William Van Osdol Jr. (Johnny) and his sister Joan Berger. He is survived by his brother David and his wife Mary and their daughters Amy and Tara. He is also lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to John’s wake and viewing on Wednesday, October 2 from 4-8 at Nickerson Bourne Funeral Home (Bourne location). His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday morning at 10:30 am in St. Patrick's Church, Wareham. Burial will follow at the Bourne National Cemetery. After the burial guests are welcome to join the family for a Celebration of Life at the Towne Place, formerly Lindsay’s (one of his favorite places) to gather, remember and honor his remarkable legacy.