Wava Osborn

Wava I. Osborn passed away peacefully on February 9, 2021, after 99 ½ years of robust living and bringing joy to family and friends. Wava was born in Aberdeen SD on June 21, 1921 to Lester and Helen (Bloom) Wiles. Her early years were spent on a farm by Frankfort, SD.  She attended rural school near Ashton and helped on the farm. Many a story was told of getting caught swimming in the James River, picking eggs, and canning and cooking with her mom. She loved dancing and riding her brother’s rebuilt Indian motorcycle.

Wava married James B. Osborn on September 18, 1941 . They raised their 6 children in a variety of places, starting in Redfield SD. In 1953 they moved to Lead SD, but returned to Redfield where she remained until retirement. Wava spent the majority of her time raising her family which brought her great joy. Additionally, she worked at Redfield State Hospital and School where she cared for the health and well being of those who were developmentally disabled. She was a dedicated employee who truly cared for those in her care.

She was a great cook -“from scratch”.  She loved gardening whether it was her vegetable garden or flower garden. She was an incredible seamstress as well as creating heirloom embroidery pieces. Her ‘home remedies’ were many and surprisingly, they worked! Many pets graced Wava’s life and she loved them all. However, of all the things that enriched her life, it was her family that she cherished the most.  

Wava’s last few years were spent at Spearfish Canyon Healthcare where she made new friends, enjoyed bingo and root beer float Fridays. It was here she took up coloring felted pictures and gifted many to family and friends. A special thank you to all at the healthcarecenter for their excellent care.

Wava is preceeded in death by James B. Osborn(husband), Tom Osborn (son), James A. Osborn (grandson), Dustin Norton (grandson), Asher Ludwar(great grandson).

Left to carry on Wava’s spirit are Sally Osborn (wife of Tom), Lester (Donna) Osborn, David (Jan) Osborn, Michael (Mea) Osborn, Beth (Doug) Norton, Rex (Linda Abeldt) Osborn, numerous grand, great, and great great grandchildren, special friend, Lori, as well as extended family and friends who knew and loved her.

A private family service will be held at the HykeFuneral Home in Redfield SD on Friday, February 12 at  2:00 pm. A public celebration of her life will be held this summer. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Happy Pig Haven, a pot belly pig sanctuary, at 25188 468th Ave, Baltic, SD, 57003.

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