Memorial Service for Commissioner John Ostlund is July 12

Memorial Service for Commissioner John Ostlund

Friends, neighbors, and all who called him a faithful public servant are invited to gather and celebrate the life of Commissioner John Ostlund, who dedicated 52 years of his life to Yellowstone County. His memorial service is Saturday, July 12, at 10:00 a.m. at MetraPark First Interstate Arena

Ostlunds Early Career

John began his vocation in public service with a distinguished 30-year tenure at the Yellowstone County Road & Bridge Department, noted KTVQ. He retired in 2002, but it wasn’t the end of his journey.

Remember when it was Rimrock Auto Arena? Credit Michael Foth, TSM

A County Commissioner Since 2003

Ostlund launched his first term on January 1, 2003, going on to serve over two decades, most recently in his fourth consecutive term as a County Commissioner.

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As a longstanding member of the Montana Association of Counties (MACo), John ascended to MACo President in 2010. He was an unwavering presence in Helena, lobbying for counties through the 2025 legislative session.

Photo by Lorin Both on Unsplash - stock image

A Full Personal Life

A 73‑year‑old pilot, Ostlund tragically passed on June 19, 2025, when the Cessna he was flying crashed south of Billings. Preliminary FAA reports indicate the plane struck power lines before going down.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Kristie, and their blended family of five adult children. Those who worked alongside him remember that he was often the first to lift a friend’s spirits, offering mentorship, wise counsel, and his signature greeting, “Say hello to your bride for me.”

Photo by Jed Owen on Unsplash

Driven by Rural Roots

Passionate about rural Montana, John’s advocacy always put local communities front and center. As Steve Arveschoug told KTVQ, “John was about accomplishing things. That’s what I really respected.”

Everyone touched by John’s life is invited to honor his legacy on Saturday, July 12, at 10 a.m., at MetraPark First Interstate Arena. Our thoughts are with Kristie and the Ostlund family during this difficult time.