Tributes

Concepcion “Connie” Oosterveen was born to Juanita Castillo Lopez and Jesse Lopez on October 29, 1935, in Crook, Colorado. She was one of twelve children (8 brothers and 3 sisters). Connie was first and foremost a fine lady with a heart of gold. She was amazing and the epitome of love. Connie was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was known for her warm smile and kind spirit. Connie attended school in San Antonio and graduated from Fox Tech High School in 1955 where she was a majorette and on the newspaper staff. She loved to write and her dream was to be a journalist. While in high school she met Joseph “Joe” Oosterveen and they quickly became high school sweethearts. Connie worked as a Civil Servant at multiple military bases in San Antonio, TX. Her career positions included administrative secretary, executive secretary, and ultimately project manager. She retired from Kelly AFB after 30 years of distinguished service. Connie and Joe were married on November 7, 1956, while Joe was serving in the United States Air Force. Soon after they began their family. Their first child, Teri Lynn was born in January 1959. Sadly, Teri Lynn passed away in December of the same year. Despite the loss, their desire to have a large family was not deterred. They quickly grew into a family of seven and included Joseph Albert Jr, Suzanne Renae, Mark Anthony, Lisa Dianne (Saul) and, last but not least, Jennifer Jo (Abel). Connie loved her family. They were her everything and always put them first. However, her biggest pride and joy were her grandchildren: Stephanie Lynn (Lisa), Crystal Renae (Suzanne), David Anthony Jr. (Lisa), Heather Michelle (Suzanne), Mark Anthony Jr. (Mark), Carly Rian (Mark), Jonah Abel (Jennifer), Samuel Jacob (Jennifer), and Cara Joli (Mark) and great-grandchildren: Arabella Monroe (Stephanie), Lazzaro Joseph (Stephanie), Thomas John (Heather), Eric Levi (Stephanie) and Zoey Alise (Heather). Connie’s many hobbies included crocheting, cookbooks, cooking, crossword puzzles, short drives, and watching various game shows like “The Price is Right” and “Family Feud” to name a few. However, her favorite past time was gathering her family together for birthday parties or parties in general. She loved to be around her family, spending time with her husband and their children. Connie was a woman of great faith. She regularly spent time in prayer and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. She and Joe made raising their children in their faith a priority and enrolled them at St. Joseph’s Catholic School. During the last years of her life, attending church became difficult and she missed it dearly. Connie was an amazing woman who was loved and admired by all. She was beautiful inside and out, took care of herself as she always wanted to look her best. She always “dolled up”. Her heart was pure love and she loved hard. Always thinking of others first, she would show love to anyone in need and made all feel at home. Her sweet nature, beautiful smile, and loving kindness will always be remembered. Connie’s infinite love for her family will always serve as a guiding light to those who love her dearly.

Tributes

Concepcion L. Oosterveen

October 29, 1935 - March 19, 2024