Bostelman Fred Jay

Fred Jay Bostelman, 57, of Napoleon, Ohio passed away following a short respiratory illness peacefully early afternoon Wednesday, June 27 while at home with his loving family by his side. Jay was born January 21, 1955 in Napoleon, OH. His parents Fred and Eileen (Bickford) Bostelman were proud and loving parents. On April 29, 1990, a beautiful Sunday afternoon, Jay and Darlene Tussing were married. Jay’s sons, Jason (Sandy) of Napoleon and Seth (Amber Klippel) of Marietta, GA were his inspiration for living. He loved being a grandfather to Alan. Jay developed a work hard/play hard ethic at a young age. Jay earned his Eagle Scout distinction with the Gold, Silver and Bronze quills. He was awarded his Eagle Scout badge by Neil Armstrong. He attended the World Jamboree in Japan where he climbed Mt. Fuji and took refuge from a raging typoon. Jay became a police officer for the City of Napoleon. In 1978, Jay became an employee of Toledo Edison. He loved his job as a lineman and his coworkers especially bonded with Terry Rettig and Larry Casteel. On January 7, 1981, Jay was involved in a train/truck accident just outside Holgate, OH and his injuries resulted in quadriplegia. After many months of hospitalization and rehabilitation, Jay returned home with one goal: to live every day to the fullest. And that he did. Jay loved to travel to Las Vegas and to the best beach resort in Florida as well as many other destinations. Jay had a unique way of connecting with people and made many dear friends at these destinations not to mention the number of family and friends that traveled along knowing a good time will be had by all!Jay was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church, Napoleon, OH where he was a VBS teacher and truly loved listening to the sounds of the men’s bell choir. He was so strong in faith and treasured every day which began with scripture and inspirational readings. Jay was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 300 and the Henry County Sportsman Club. He loved to watch movies, The Ohio State University football season (Go Bucks!) and share some good times and good stories with anyone and everyone.Jay is survived by his wife Darlene, mother, Eileen, sons Jason and Seth, grandson Alan and God son, Trenton Tussing. He is also survived by his in-laws, John (Alice) Tussing, Kim Eaton, Janine Moelter, and Brian (Bille Jo) Tussing. Nephews and nieces: Justin, Tyler, Autum, Austin, Trenton and Addison. Jay’s best friend since grade school and longtime aide, Joe Celani, was a faithful provider who was instrumental in providing exceptional care for Jay.Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 30 at Emanuel Lutheran Church, Napoleon with Pastor James Castello officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery.Visitation will be held on Friday from 2-8 p.m. at the Rodenberger Funeral Home in Napoleon and on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the church.The family suggests memorial contributions be given to the Emanuel Lutheran Elevator Fund or a charity of the donor’s choice.Online condolences may be made at www.rodenbergerfuneralhome.com“I have the greatest life.” words Jay lived by and stated often. Jay touched so many and so many touched Jay. Jay would tell us all “Go have the greatest life.”

Tributes

Bostelman Fred Jay

June 27, 2012