Marie Ostenso OBITUARY

Marie Ostenso OBITUARY

Marie Agnes Ostenso (née Derzay), affectionately known as Mim, passed away peacefully on December 11. She is remembered for her kindness, accepting nature, passion for education, and her ability to make friends wherever she went.

Born in San Francisco, Mim grew up in Palo Alto before attending college in San Jose, where she met the love of her life, Allen Ostenso. They shared 52 wonderful years of marriage before his passing. In 2022, she moved to Maryland to be closer to family.

Mim cherished her California roots–exploring orchards, berry farms, and beaches; serving as vice president of the local Elvis fan club; and forming lifelong friendships. She traveled through Europe after college, explored the West Coast with her family and best friend, nurtured backyard gardens, and created a joyful annual soup party tradition. Together, she and Allen raised two daughters who proudly marched to their own beat.

A creative and devoted educator, Mim taught 5th grade, volunteered at UNICEF, and then earned a Master’s in Library Science. She had an uncanny ability to match students with the perfect book and enjoyed designing libraries from the ground up. This passion endured in retirement, when she revitalized her residence’s library.

Mim is survived by her daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. A celebration of life will be held in February. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to UNICEF USA in her honor.