Thomas John Van Osdel, a respected member of the Fargo community, passed away at the age of 84. Born on January 2, 1941, in St. Paul, Minnesota, he was adopted by Franklin and Marjorie Van Osdel and grew up in Fargo, North Dakota.
Van Osdel's early years were spent in Fargo on 9th Street South and summers at his family's cottage on Pelican Lake. His family were long-time members of the First Presbyterian Church of Fargo. He graduated from Fargo Central High School in 1958 before attending Concordia College. He furthered his education at the University of North Dakota (UND), earning a Master's Degree in Business and Accounting followed by a law degree in 1966.
After completing his studies, Van Osdel returned to Fargo to join his father's law firm as a partner. He met Sue during high school, and they married in 1962. Together they had three children: John (Julie), William, and Kate; along with four grandchildren: Jennifer Van Osdel (Devin), Jordan Van Osdel, Sophie Frappier, and Koharu Van Osdel.
Known for his friendly demeanor, Van Osdel cherished conversations with friends and neighbors during walks with his dog Maggie.
A memorial service will be held on January 23, 2025, at 1:30 PM (CT) at the First Presbyterian Church located at 650 2nd Ave N., Fargo, ND 58102.
For more details about Thomas John Van Osdel's life and legacy, view the full obituary online.