Darold John Osterloh

Darold John Osterloh, 92, of Grants Pass, passed away at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center on July 14, 2023 with his daughter by his side. Born on June 10th, 1931 in Graceville, MN, Darold was the eldest of 6 boys born to John "Jack" and Leona (Rachor) Osterloh of Wilmot, SD. Darold graduated from Wilmot High School in 1949. He married Barbara Minder on September 8, 1956 in Wilmot. In 1970, they adopted their only child, a daughter, Georgetta Ann "Gidget" when she was 16 days old. 

Darold and Barb owned and operated a Dairy Queen drive-in in Milbank, SD in the early 70's. They had many fond memories and funny stories about the drive-in. The little family moved to Rogue River, Oregon in October of 1977. Darold worked for the United States Postal Service for more than 30 years. He retired from the post office in 1995 saying he started at the top as postmaster and worked his way down to letter carrier. He delivered the 2nd largest route in the State of Oregon out of White City for 13 years. Boy did he have some great stories about that! Darold had the gift of gab and could find someone to talk to anywhere he went. We will miss his stories and his contagious laugh.

He is survived by his daughter and caretaker, Georgetta "Gidget" Smith and her husband, David; granddaughter, Dr. Lyanna Díaz-Burris (Will); brothers, Gordon and Jack of Wilmot, SD, and Bob (Janet) of San Antonio, TX; and numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. We want to extend a special thank you to family friend, Mrs. Gail Kirsch, who has been a wonderful pen pal for the past few years. Dad enjoyed remembering and exchanging stories and looked forward to each new beautiful handmade card. Your faithful kindness did not go unnoticed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 60 years, Barbara, and two brothers, Delton and Merle. We take great comfort in knowing that just seven short weeks before he passed, Darold gave his heart to Jesus and we will see him again in heaven.

A celebration of life service will be held at River Valley Church- Redwood Campus, 2193 Midway Ave., Grants Pass on Friday, September, 1st at 11am. All those whose lives were touched by him are invited. Lunch will be provided following the service. Interment of both Darold and Barbara will be next summer in Wilmot, SD.