Gene Oosterom

Eugene C. Oosterom, known affectionately as Gene to his friends and family, passed away on January 13, 2026, in West Grove, Pennsylvania at the age of 94. Born on June 4, 1931 in Old Brookville, New York to Arie “Harry” and Wilhelmina Oosterom, Gene grew up alongside his siblings Hen, Mim, Harry, and Grace.

Gene's life was characterized by his sharp intelligence, loving nature, and a sense of humor that brought joy to those around him. He graduated with a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from Pratt Institute in 1953.  Gene proudly served in the New York National Guard before transitioning to the United States Army.

His professional journey continued as an engineer at Thiokol Chemical Corporation, where he worked from 1959 until his retirement in 1995. He was instrumental in Thiokol's contribution to NASA's space exploration programs of the sixties, seventies, and eighties, including program management for the Dyna Soar, Mercury, Gemini, Saturn V and STAR 48 rocket systems.

An avid sports fan, Gene never missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams, the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles. He also made sure to attend as many of his children’s and grandchildren's sporting events as possible. His enthusiasm for sports was matched by his love of gardening, including varieties of flowers, tomatoes, and more zucchini than he knew what to do with. He also enjoyed the challenge of home improvement projects.

Travel was another of Gene's great pleasures, and he took every opportunity to explore the world with his beloved wife, Gloria. They particularly enjoyed their annual summer visits to the Delaware beaches.

Later in life Gene enjoyed the friendships of his newfound community at Jenner's Pond in West Grove, PA. He enjoyed bridge, Wii bowling, calling bingo (where his humor was appreciated by most) and tending bar at Morrie's Pub.

Above all, Gene was a family man. He is survived by his loving children, Susan Oosterom Ross (David), Bill Oosterom (Donna), Elizabeth Oosterom Kanyock (Stephen), and Michael Oosterom (Zachary). He was a cherished grandfather to Michael Ross, Benjamin Ross (Caroline), Max Oosterom, Arie Oosterom, Chris Karas, Jon Karas, Eva Karas, and Jennifer Lemieux (Steven), and a doting great-grandfather to Tommy Ross, Charlie Ross, and Oliver Lemieux. Gene was predeceased by his much loved wife, Gloria York Oosterom; and his siblings, Hen Miller, Mim Miller, Harry Oosterom, and Grace O'Brien.

Gene's legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of his family and all who knew him. His wit, wisdom, and boundless love formed the tapestry of memories that will continue to inspire and comfort his loved ones. Gene's life was a testament to the power of laughter, the strength of intelligence, and the depth of love. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will remain a guiding light for his family and friends.

A funeral service will be celebrated at 11:00am on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, where family and friends may visit beginning at 10:00am. Interment will be held in All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Gene may be made to Tri-State Bird Rescue 170 Possum Hollow Road, Newark, Delaware 19711 (www.tristatebird.org) or the Simpson Foundation, which provides charitable support for benevolent care and life-enhancing services for seniors at Jenner’s Pond. (www.simpsonsenior.org/simpson-foundation/).

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