Julie Jeanne Ostrander, 56, of Des Moines, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at Kavanaugh House, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with bile duct cancer. Born on August 23, 1969, in Missouri Valley, Iowa, Julie was the daughter of James and Jeralene (Fogelman) Ostrander. Her life was marked by resilience, compassion, and a deep love for family and community.
Julie spent 13 years working for the Des Moines Police Department as a parking enforcer—a role she embraced with enthusiasm and pride. Colleagues fondly remember her warm smile, quick wit, and genuine care for the people she encountered every day. Whether she was assisting residents, checking on coworkers, or offering a friendly conversation, Julie made a lasting impact on those around her. Her kindness and professionalism left an imprint not only on the department but also on the broader community she faithfully served.
Outside of her work, Julie was devoted to her family, whom she considered her greatest joy. She delighted in attending family gatherings, celebrating milestones, and enjoying quiet moments with her children and grandchildren. Julie was the type of person who found meaning in life’s small, beautiful experiences—sharing a laugh, giving a warm hug, or offering words of encouragement. Her family describes her as a constant source of love and strength, someone who always showed up when she was needed.
Julie’s personality shone through in everything she loved. A proud Harry Potter fan, she enjoyed the magic and wonder of the series, often sharing her excitement with her grandchildren. Shopping at Maurices was another favorite pastime, where she relished finding stylish and fun pieces that matched her cheerful spirit. These simple joys reflected the essence of who she was: vibrant, thoughtful, and full of life.
Julie is survived by a loving family who will carry her memory forward with pride. She leaves behind her mother, Jeralene (Scott) Caldwell; her children, Ashlie (Kendall Hall) Cleghorn, Amber Cleghorn, Jayce Finnell, and Payton (Blexley) Jones; her brothers, Jeff (Peggy) Ostrander and Joel (Shelby) Ostrander; her nephew, Isaac (Breanna) Ostrander; her niece, Grace Ostrander; and her stepbrother, Matt (Corrie) Caldwell. Julie was also blessed with grandchildren—Alyssa, Olivia, Emerald, Thomas, Opal, Amori, and Otis—each of whom brought immense joy and pride into her life.
She was preceded in death by her father, James Ostrander, and her stepmother, Shirley, whom she loved dearly.
Family and friends are invited to gather in her honor during visitation on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Funeral services will follow on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., also at the funeral home.
Julie Jeanne Ostrander’s life was defined by generosity, courage, and an unwavering love for others. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of kindness and strength will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.