Edna Oestmann

Edna Christine Oestmann, born April 25, 1916 on a farm southeast of Ruskin, Nebraska, was one of seven children born to Alka Johann and Hilka Johanna (Torbeck) Malpert. At the age of 5, she moved with her family to a farm southwest of Nora, Nebraska. Edna attended school at Prairie Hall country school and graduated from Nora High School.

In 1934 Edna moved from the devastation of the “Dust Bowl” to find work in Johnson, Nebraska. She married Ervin Oestmann on August 8, 1936. To this union two sons were born.

Edna was a member (and past council member) of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Johnson and was active in the WELCA. She was a charter member of the Nemaha County Extension Club and volunteered on the Johnson Rag newspaper.

Edna worked painting, staining, and wallpapering home interiors for many years including helping refinish several local churches. She loved painting in oil, water, water colors, and ink. She also enjoyed quilting, knitting, tatting, and gardening as well as reading and puzzles. Early in life Edna was active as a catcher on the Johnson Ladies Softball Team and later on a bowling team.

She moved to Long’s Creek Village in Auburn, Nebraska in September of 2007 and then to Good Samaritan Society-Auburn in March of 2010. It was there she passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2013 at the age of 97 years, 6 months, and 22 days. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ervin, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

Edna is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law Ralph and Donna Oestmann of Andover, KS; Eldon and Pat Oestmann of Morton, IL; 5 grandchildren and 3 step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and 10 step-great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.