Obituary of Natalie Laurel Ostberg

Natalie Laurel Ostberg, beloved daughter of Richard and Laurel Ostberg and cherished sister of Christopher, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2023, at Lutheran Medical Center. Natalie entered this world on her maternal grandmother’s birthday, in the early morning hours of April 19, 1993.

Natalie’s early life was not simple and easy but it evolved into a life that was full of smiles, mischievous grins, giggles, full-on belly laughs, sideways impish looks, morning hugs, and a love of water, music, and fast rides. She was non-verbal and eventually used a wheelchair full-time.

When Natalie was a baby, it was discovered that she would calm while listening to music. Her first concert was at Wolf Trap in Virginia to see John Denver when she was only a little over a year old. She became a regular concert-goer at venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Grizzly Rose, and Fiddler’s Green, although she could also be found at other local venues such as the Well at Bradford Junction. Natalie's love for music was only rivaled by her love for gummy bears.

Also while Natalie was a baby, we realized she loved the feel of water. She went on to enjoy swimming, white water rafting, and boat rides – the faster, the better.

Upon moving to Colorado, Natalie had the chance to ski with the NCSD and BOEC ski programs. She loved to ski fast and if the volunteers who skied with her got it right, she would flap her arms like she was flying. She was always the last one in and always had a big smile.

Natalie was a regular participant in the Evergreen Parks & Recreation Center’s INSPIRE Program, where her infectious and sometimes mischievous smile was a source of delight.

Natalie spread joy to everyone she encountered. She was a testament to the power of choosing joy and happiness, regardless of circumstances. Natalie faced many early challenges but emerged as a beacon of happiness, teaching us all that joy is a choice. A memorial service celebrating Natalie's life will be held at Evergreen Lutheran Church on Saturday, December 2nd.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Natalie’s honor to BOEC (Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center) https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/boec/natalie-ostberg-memorial-fund-copy, Evergreen Parks & Recreation INSPIRE Program (Cindy @ (303) 507-5519 or Maren @ (303) 912-7382), or High Pointe Services (www.highpointeservices.org/donate-to-highpointe-online/ put Natalie in the comments). Natalie's life was a symphony of joy, love, and a dash of mischief. She will be deeply missed, but her melody will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who loved her.