Write a commentRobert W. Ochsenbein, 89, a resident of Oswego passed away on Masters Sunday surrounded by his family.
Born in Oswego, he was a son of the late Julius and Sophie (Zahler) Ochsenbein.He attended Oak Hill, Fitzhugh Park and the Oswego High School before leaving high school in his senior year to manage the family business, Meats and Limited Grocery Store due to a family illness.
Mr. Ochsenbein was a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Army with the 507th Parachute Regiment, 17th Airborne Division and the 82nd Airborne Division. The division entered combat on Christmas Eve at the Battle of the Bulge and later pulled out of the Bulge to take part of the jump over the Rhine River in Wezel, Germany which was the largest Airborne operation of World War II. Mr.Ochsenbein served from 1943-1946 where he was honorably discharged and received Battle Stars, two Presidential Citations and two Croix de Guerre (one from Beligum and one from France).
He was employed as a meatcutter and later sold real estate for Century 21 for over 20 years.He also owned Barbara's IGA Store in Fulton in the 1960's. He was a life member of the Trinity United Methodist Church where he served as an usher,Trustee and treasurer of the Trustees. He was an avid golfer who recorded three holes in ones at the Oswego Country Club.He was an avid drag racer in the 1950's and 1960's.
Surviving are his wife of 68 years, the former Merle Bundy, a daughter, Gail Joyce of Oswego, a son, Gary (Laurie Lockwood) Ochsenbein of Mexico, three grandchildren, Gretchen (William) Hibbert, Matthew (Yenni) Schwartz, Andrew (Stephanie) Joyce, ten great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his brother, Charles Ochsenbein.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 11:00 from the Trinity United Methodist Church.
Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.
There are no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church, 45 East Utica Street, Oswego, N.Y. 13126.
Arrangements are in care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.
