Mary Evelyn VanOstenbridge of Phoenixville

Mary Evelyn VanOstenbridge, age 84, of Phoenixville PA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Oct. 30th, 2018.

Her fondness for helping children was illustrated by her chosen occupation, elementary education, which she put on hold as she directed her attention toward being a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother for her family. Her creative passions included music, entertaining, painting, baking, sewing, and crocheting, which she openly shared with family and friends throughout her life. She cherished family memories of time spent near or on the water. Her most treasured degree was from Clown College, where her alter-ego ‘Patches’ came to life. She shared this joy with others at parties and also as a volunteer in Hospice units at several local hospitals.

Through her years, she traveled the globe with stops in the Caribbean, throughout Europe and Coast to Coast across the United States. It was evident she treasured her Norwegian heritage and traditions and enjoyed recreating special family recipes as often as she could.

Mary Evelyn is preceded in death by her husband, Howard VanOstenbridge. She is survived by her Son Wayne, his wife Pam and their two children, Son Jim and his wife Lea, Daughter Beth and her rescued dog Bailey.

Mary Evelyn had a deep love and appreciation for rescuing animals. We ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in the name of Mary Evelyn VanOstenbridge to All 4 Paws Rescue: https://www.all4pawsrescue.com/support.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a gravesite service on Saturday, Dec. 1st, at 11 am at Cedar Lawn Cemetery, 200 McLean Blvd. Patterson, NJ 07504. Immediately following the service, we will gather at a local venue to celebrate her ‘Sparkling’ life.