In Memory

Robert L. Oshkeshequoam

Robert L. Oshkeshequoam

Springfield - Mr. Robert Lynn Oshkeshequoam, "Osh." 64, died Thursday, Jan. 31, 2008, in Springfield.

He was born May 6, 1943, in Springfield, a son of the Menominee Nation, to Leonard and Kathleen (Darling) Oshkeshequoam.  Osh was a alumnus of Lanphier High School.  He served our nation in the U.S. Marine Corps.  Osh was a retired member of the Iron Workers of North America Local 46 in Springfield.  Many central Illinois commercial structures owe their existence to his expertise.  Bridges, smoke stacks and even the flagpole atop our state capitol was set by Osh.

An avid roller skater, he was known by many who frequented the local rinks.  He enjoyed perfection and found peace in nature and in his friends.  As one who gave so much in life, he was a 10 gallon donor at the Central Illinois Blood Bank and an organ donor in death.

Surviving are his father, Leonard Oshkeshequoam of Legend Lake, WI, and a sister, Janice Oshkeshequoam of Springfield.  Also surviving are many relatives in Wisconsin and Springfield.  Of his extended family, he is survived by Joe and Darlene Lawing of Chatham; the daughters of Joe Lawing, Debbie and Barb; and by the children of Don and Darlene Brady, Pam, David, Alice, Jim and their children who knew him as Uncle Osh; the Michael and Colleen Troesch family, Michael Troesch and Sarah McCormick of Springfield; the Elgenmann family of New Berlin, Curt, Alana and their young daughter, Sierra, who knew Osh just like all of us have known him as their best buddy.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen, and a niece, Theresa Kemp.

Funeral services Feb 6, 2008, at Bish Funeral Home West , Pastor Chad Pickering officiate.  Burial in Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors.

Memorials to The Boys and Girls Club of America or the Central Illinois Blood Bank.



 
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02/03/11 10:25 AM #1    

Lawrence A. (Larry) Wieties

Many people remember Robert (Bob) as the quirky classmate with the longest and most difficult last name to spell. Bob was a lot of things to a lot of people. He was a highly skilled iron worker who knew no fear of heights, likely from his indian heritage. For example, he worked on the State Capital installing the flag pole at the highest point.

Bob was also an accomplished roller skater and spent countless nights at Skateland North where he displayed his skills and helped with the instruction of younger enthusiasts. He enjoyed people and was always willing to help friends. Bob helped one family I know build a fence at their farm and they treated him like a son/brother.

I attended Bob's wake and it gave even greater insight about him. He was buried in a traditional wooden indian casket, his iron worker tool belt and boots were displayed and of course, his roller skates. During the 90 minutes I was there, the line of visitors was endless which was such a nice tribute and confirmation of his many friends from all walks of life.

Bob was truly one of a kind and his own person.


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