David Wilson Osterholt, born May 14, 1927, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Frederick and Christina Osterholt, passed away on Sept. 4, 2023, at the age of 96 in Frisco, Texas.
He is predeceased by his parents, his brothers Ted and Robert, and his beloved wife of 63 years, Louise, who passed in 2009, his foster parents Bill and Zada Slipp, and foster sisters Jean and Peggy. He is survived by his three children, David (Elsie), Elizabeth (Jim) and Robert (Sharon). In addition to his surviving children, he was graced with four grandchildren; Andrea (Todd), Staci, Sam, Christopher (Tayra) and six great-grandchildren.
His faith, family and extended family were the absolute center of his fulfilled life; he cherished his brother- and sister-in-laws and those who liked to call him Uncle David.
David proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, completing his basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina, and later stationed at Quantico, Virginia. Following his military service, David married Louise in 1946, and a wonderful 63 years would begin. David then embarked on a decades-long professional career by founding an advertising agency in the Minneapolis/Twin Cities area. Shortly thereafter, the family moved from Bloomington to Eden Prairie. It didn’t take long for David to become active in local politics, where, beginning in 1966, he was sworn in as Eden Prairie mayor. David retired undefeated, having served four two-year terms as mayor, and one four-year term as a city council member.
During his time as mayor, he advocated changing Eden Prairie from a village to a city. He led the council to voter referendums, special elections, long-range parks and recreation plans, bonding for fire stations and public works. He established numerous advisory commissions, along with adopting much-needed guide plans, which to this day are still fulfilling on its charter.
Along with raising their family and community service work, David always found time for a golf game with countless friends, many so endearing they were like family. David and Louise held strongly to their Christian values and were long-time members of the Eden Prairie Presbyterian Church before moving out-of-state to southern California, Tulsa and North Texas while enjoying retirement.
A private memorial service and final interment are planned at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
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