John Ostrowski

In Loving Memory of John Ostrowski
June 28, 1955 - July 23, 2025
John Ostrowski--known affectionately as Ozzie, Johnny O, or Big John--was a man whose strength was matched only by the size of his heart. He peacefully passed away on July 23, 2025, at AtlantiCare Hospital in Atlantic City, New Jersey, surrounded by the unwavering love of his family.
Born and raised in the 2nd Street neighborhood he proudly called home, John was the son of the late John and Laura (nee Kasker) Ostrowski. He graduated from Sacred Heart of Jesus Grade School and St. John Neumann High School (Class of '73), later finding his professional home with Dubin Paper Company as a dedicated truck driver, and a proud member of Teamsters Local 107.
John was a pillar of love and leadership within his family--firm when needed, but always full of warmth. His daughters knew him as their steadfast protector, his grandchildren as their biggest cheerleader, and his wife, Dolores (nee McCaffrey), as the unwavering partner by her side for 47 beautiful years.
John lived a life fueled by joy and community. Whether setting up model trains, spending time in North Wildwood, or reveling in the magic of New Year's Day as a lifelong mummer, he brought energy and dedication to everything he touched. He paraded proudly with the Fralinger String Band, served as a founding member and president of the original Avalon String Band, and later helped form the Pennsport String Band. A Hall of Fame inductee at the Mummers Museum, John's musical spirit and charisma brought people together in unforgettable ways.
But beneath the big presence was a man with a soft heart--a true teddy bear who never stopped checking in, lending a hand, or making someone laugh. He had a gift for making things happen, whether it was leading a band down Broad Street or working behind the scenes to make sure his family and friends were taken care of.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores; his daughters, Jaime (Tom) Wisniewski, Janine (Al) Brangan, and Janae (Pat) Bradley; and his cherished grandchildren, Thomas, Carter, Max, Patrick, and Jack. He is also survived by his brother Joseph (Maria) Ostrowski, brother-in-law John "JohnJohn" (Peggy) McCaffrey, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and fellow mummers. He is predeceased by his sister Lauranne Gordetzer and sister-in-law Jackie McCaffrey.
Relatives, friends, and members of the String Band Association and Pennsport String Band are invited to pay their respects on Thursday morning, July 31, 2025, from 8:00 to 11:00 AM at The Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, 3rd & Wolf Streets. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private.
In honor of John's giving spirit, memorial donations may be made to Liv Life Like Lois foundation Venmo @livelifelikeloisfoundation in his name.