Catherine Theresa Osterbrink

Catherine “Katie” Osterbrink, 62, of Plover, Wisconsin, crossed into the Kingdom of Heaven on October 5, 2026.

Katie was born on August 24, 1964, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Philip and Adalyne (Houf) Osterbrink. She grew up on a small turkey farm in Marathon, Wisconsin, where she developed a love for horses at an early age. Some of her favorite childhood memories included riding horses bareback through the country fields, embracing the freedom and beauty of the world around her.

Katie worked for many years as a medical assistant in the Wausau area. However, she found her true passion in emergency medical services while serving as an EMT with the Mosinee Fire Department. Her compassionate heart and willingness to help others were evident in both her professional and personal life.

Katie was also a gifted artist whose remarkable ability to paint and draw brought beauty and joy to those around her. She shared her talents generously, selling her artwork throughout the community and creating special pieces for her grandchildren and family members. Her art was more than a creative outlet; it was another way she expressed her love, leaving behind treasured pieces that will continue to tell her story for years to come.

A devout Christian, Katie fiercely loved Jesus and sought to share His love and warmth with everyone she encountered. She had a heart for people and loved those in her life deeply and without reservation. Whether through a thoughtful gesture, a heartfelt conversation, a piece of artwork, or simply being present, Katie had a special way of making others feel loved. Her love was fierce, genuine, and unwavering, and those fortunate enough to experience it will carry it with them always.

Katie's greatest pride and joy were her daughters, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter. She loved living vicariously through Amanda's stories of trauma and emergency medicine from medical school and treasured the bond she shared with Megan through their mutual love of gardening and design. Some of her happiest moments were the simplest ones: getting ice cream with Aubreigh and Wyatt, sharing her love of art with Chase, and spending time with Zach and her new great-granddaughter, Aurora. Each of these relationships held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every opportunity to create memories with those she loved.

Katie also had a deep affection for animals, especially her three beloved cats, Claire, Blanche, and Olive. They were her cherished companions, each holding a special place in her heart and bringing her comfort, companionship, and joy.

Katie is survived by her daughters, Amanda Tautges of Plover, and Megan (Jonathon) Goodwin of Stevens Point; her grandchildren, Zachary (Emma), Chase, Aubreigh, and Wyatt Goodwin; her great-granddaughter, Aurora Goodwin; her sister, Lois (Mike) Wichlacz of Danbury; her brother, Glen Osterbrink of Plover; her sister-in-law, Marnie Osterbrink of Eland; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Adalyne Osterbrink; her sister, Shirley Bremer; her brother, Allen Osterbrink; and her beloved dogs, Greta and Maddy.

Katie’s family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary teams at St. Croix Hospice and Home Instead for the phenomenal, compassionate care they provided throughout her journey. A special thank you to Elise, Sara, Tim, Tom, Sarah, Caleb, and Laura of St. Croix Hospice, and Jess, Tiffany, Stephenie, Kassandra, Melissa, Teagan, and Summer of Home Instead. Your kindness, patience, tenderness, and unwavering dedication brought comfort and dignity to Katie and peace of mind to those who loved her most. You cared for her not simply as a patient, but as a person, and your compassion extended to our entire family. During some of our most difficult moments, you became a source of strength, reassurance, and love. We will forever be grateful for the difference you made in her life and in ours.

A gathering to celebrate Katie's life will take place at 12 noon, on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Highland Church in Plover, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service, all at the church. Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee, is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com.

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life ... nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 8:38–39