Erland “Ozzie” Arthur Osberg
August 7, 1946 – August 4, 2025
It is with broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father, Erland “Ozzie” Arthur Osberg, in the early morning hours of August 4, 2025—just shy of his 79th birthday. A true original, Dad was known for his warm smile, quick wit, and the ever-present twinkle in his eye. He brought joy to every room he entered and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Born August 7, 1946, in Flin Flon, Manitoba, Erland was the eldest son of John and Anna (Schwandt) Osberg. After a brief time in British Columbia, the family settled in Lynn Lake, Manitoba, where he completed his schooling. A proud graduate of the University of Manitoba, he earned his Commerce Degree while spending summers back in Lynn Lake working at the Sherritt Gordon Mine—and occasionally behind the bar on weekends.
It was at the mine office where fate intervened and he met the love of his life, Jeannette. Dad, being his charmingly shy self, needed a little push—so much so that a coworker playfully locked them both in the office safe, insisting he ask her out before they could be let out. It worked. A spark ignited in that safe that never went out. They married and built a beautiful life together, welcoming two children, David and Trina.
In 1976, the young family packed up and moved to Keeler, Saskatchewan, to fulfill Dad’s dream of owning a hotel. With two toddlers in tow, and no shortage of ambition and determination, Mom and Dad became the proud owners and operators of the Keeler Hotel. Though it was no easy feat, those were golden years filled with laughter, community, and lifelong friendships. Dad loved reminiscing about the Keeler days—sports weekends that filled the town to bursting, fall suppers, community dances, and of course, the colourful regulars who kept him on his toes with stories and good-natured banter. He proudly supported his kids’ activities, from Dave’s hockey in Marquis to Trina’s skating in Moose Jaw.
In 1985, the family moved to Moose Jaw, where a new chapter unfolded. Over the years, Dad wore many hats—working in real estate, running a gas station, and holding various office jobs—always with integrity, kindness, and his trademark sense of humour.
In retirement, Dad savoured the simpler things: a good book, a Blue Jays game, cheering on the Riders, watching the Moose Jaw Warriors, and never missing a chance to support his grandchildren at the rink. He was the best Bumpa—up for ice cream, couch time, or watching whatever show was trending with the grandkids. His joy was full when he became a great-grandfather to Rebecca Jeannette on March 8, 2022. Her giggles added new light to his days, and her presence never failed to make him chuckle.
Dad’s love for his family was deep and unwavering. He made everyone feel seen, valued, and welcome. His legendary one-liners, hearty laugh, and loving presence will be profoundly missed but always remembered.
He is now reunited with his cherished Jeannette, his wife of 50 years, likely dancing among the clouds together, looking down on the family they built with pride and love.
Erland was predeceased by his wife Jeannette (Evans) Osberg and his parents John and Anna Osberg. Left to carry his legacy are his children David (Jenn) and Trina (Tom); grandchildren Darien (Teisha), David “Evan”, Kierin, Ky, Trace, and Lauryn; and his precious great-granddaughter, Rebecca Jeannette. He is also lovingly remembered by his brothers Wayne and Brian, sister-in-law Gloria (Garth), brothers-in-law Glen (Theresa) and Ivor, and numerous nieces, great-nieces, and nephews.
Our deepest gratitude goes to the ICU team at Pasqua Hospital in Regina for their exceptional care and compassion during Dad’s final days. Also, a big thank you to everyone at the Bentley.
Forever in our hearts—your laugh, your stories, your love—we will miss you dearly, Dad.
A celebration of Erland’s life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 1:30 at Grant Hall, 401 Main St, Moose Jaw. Della Ferguson will officiate. For those who cannot attend please click on the zoom link to view the service PRIOR to 1:30. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9827558167?omn=83731301696 If you are not in prior to 1:30 you will not be let into view!
For those wishing memorial donations may be made to the Moose Jaw Health Foundation, 55 Diefenbaker Dr, Moose Jaw, SK S6J 0C2. Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries) - Dayna Chamberlain - Funeral Director
