Julie Briggs

Julie L. Briggs, 64, of Ocean Park, WA, who as a teacher, friend, and family member leaves a legacy of love, friendship, and dedication to others, died of natural causes on May 21, 2008. Julie was born June 19, 1942, in Chicago Heights, Illinois, to Harry and Phyllis Osterman. Her childhood was filled with family, friends and adventures in the Chicago area. After graduation from San Jose State University, Julie began her teaching career. She also received a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Portland in 1992. Julie taught in Michigan, Arizona and California before coming to the Peninsula in 1977. At that time she was Mrs. Ekholm. Julie married Don Ekholm in California in the late '70's. They later divorced. In 1981, she married Don Briggs of Long Beach. They continued to be friends after divorcing. After arriving on the Peninsula in 1977, Julie continued her career with the Ocean Beach School District. She taught at Long Beach Elementary, Hilltop Elementary and Ocean Park Elementary. She retired from full time teaching in 2004. In 2007, she began substituting. Our Julie was a one woman testament to life and love. Julie cared about children with all of her being. Throughout her teaching career she inspired and loved children. She many, many times quietly produced clothing, school supplies or delivered food to students and their families. She worked tirelessly to open the doors of our local Boys and Girls Club and she volunteered at Camp Victory. Julie belonged to the Peninsula Arts Association. She created handmade bead jewelry. Her work had a recognizable flair, and wearers of her creations were often queried, "Is that one of Julie's?" She donated sets of jewelry to many fundraisers over the years. At the time of her death she was helping to select the recipient of the P AA Scholarship for a local High School Graduate. Her faith was very important to Julie and she was active in her parish church, attending Mass regularly - (arriving during the first reading each Sunday!) She was a Eucharistic minister, bringing communion to those unable to attend Mass. She served on the Parish Council, and helped with many a church bazaar. Julie was preceded in death by her parents Phyllis and Harry Osterman and her brother Harry J Osterman. She is survived by two beloved nephews and their families- Harry Osterman (Peggy), Harry, Jack and Katie and Matt Osterman (Jane), Patrick, Kyle and Matthew, as well as cousins Sheila Conlon and Jocko Conlon, all from the Chicago area. She will be missed by her many friends on the Peninsula and throughout the world. A memorial Mass will be held at Sf. Mary's Catholic Church in Seaview, Washington on Saturday, June 21st at 11:00. Fr. Richard Gallargher will officiate. Memorials may be made to Camp Victory, PO Box 711, Ocean Park, Wa and or The Boys and Girls Club, PO Box 1172, Long Beach, Wa 98631