“Sue” Phyllis G. Osterman, Age 87, of Butte

Phyllis G. “Susie” Osterman, age 87, passed away peacefully in Butte, Montana.

Susie was born in Butte on March 21, 1938, to Walter G. and Lillie Mae (Saunders) Aro. She attended local Butte schools, including the Grant and Butte High School. On September 1, 1957, she married the love of her life, John J. Osterman, in Butte. John and Susie shared 54 wonderful years together until his passing on February 10, 2012. His loss left a hole in Susie’s heart that never truly healed.

Throughout her life, Susie worked a variety of jobs, including at The Racetrack Bar and Restaurant and the Freeway Tavern. She also provided childcare services for several families in Butte and later established “Grandma’s Day Care” at her home, where she cared for and nurtured many children.

Susie enjoyed creating ceramics, collecting dolls, playing Pinochle, and spending time with her beloved “fur babies.” Some of her happiest moments were spent camping and gathering with loved ones at the family cabin in Buxton. She was a longtime member of Aldersgate Methodist Church and found great comfort in her faith and community.

Susie is survived by her children Robert (Kim) Osterman, John (Melanie) Osterman, and Shari (Steve) Kelley, all of Butte; sisters Sharon Bugni of Butte and Sandi McCarthy (Glen Weber) of Whitehall; grandchildren Joey (Ryan) Armstrong, Ian (Corissa) Decker, Bobbie Osterman, Meaghan Decker (Jake Tracy), and Kristiana Osterman (Colter Briese); and great-granddaughter Hazel Decker. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Charlotte Erwin (Les Comer), numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and her lifelong friend, Georgia Serich.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John J. Osterman; daughter, Pamela Osterman; parents, Walt and Mae Aro; brother, Bobby Aro; and brothers-in-law, Jay McCarthy and Manny Erwin, and nephew Wayne Walter.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Uno’s Lounge, 3235 Harrison Ave., Butte, MT.

Memorials in Susie’s name may be made to the Chelsea Bailey Animal Shelter, 699 Centennial Ave., Butte, MT 59701.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to St. James Healthcare and Copper Ridge Health and Rehab for their kind and compassionate care.

Susie will be remembered for her warmth, humor, love of family, and generous spirit. Her memory will live on in all who knew and loved her.

Axelson’s is privileged to care for Sue and her family.

Please comment below to share a condolence or leave a memory of Sue.

Service Schedule

Celebration of Life

1 p.m

Saturday November 29, 2025

Uno's

3235 Harrison Ave.

Butte, MT 59701

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