Obituary: Stanley Bostrom

From the family and friends of Stanley Bostrom 

Stanley Bostrom, Aug. 12, 1926 -- Aug. 11, 2013, University Place 

Stan went home to Jesus surrounded by his family at Franciscan Hospice House.

Stanley Howard Bostrom was born August 12, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois, the middle of three sons born to Pastor George and Esther Bostrom. After graduating from Stadium High School, Stan enlisted in the Navy during the final year of World War II. He served as a radioman in Saipan before receiving his discharge in June of 1946. Stan earned his Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Seattle Pacific College (now University) on the GI Bill, graduating cum laude in 1950. While in college, he received Jesus into his life and became involved in the Navigators organization, serving in San Luis Obispo, Germany, South Carolina, and Tacoma. During this time he mentored many men and led them to salvation in Christ. Stan shared his faith in Christ with others all his life.

Stan met Gaylon Oliver in 1953 in San Luis Obispo; they were married on June 30, 1956, in Wiesbaden, Germany. The growing family settled in Tacoma where Stan pastored the Covenant Mission Church and directed the Covenant Bible Camp. Stan then worked in preneed cemetery sales, and he and Gaylon built a business promoting Shaklee home and health products. Later, Stan attended Pacific Lutheran University where he received his Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. He counseled until his retirement in 1990.

Stan enjoyed reading, caring for his lawn and gardens, attending church, studying his Bible, and spending time with his family. 
He loved to write and published a book of short memoirs titled “Whistling Through the Crackers.” 

Stan was preceded in death by his parents, George Sr. and Esther, and his brother George Jr. 

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Gaylon; five sons and their families Dave, Steve (wife Pamela, and son Owen), Mark (wife Collette, and children Aaron, Caitlin, Grace, Anna, Sarah, Joseph, and Joshua), Gary, and John (wife Jamie, and daughters Esther and Emily); and Stan’s brother, Gordon.

Private interment will be at New Tacoma Cemetery. 
A memorial service will be held August 27th at 1:30 p.m. at Life Center Church in Tacoma. 

Memorial contributions are suggested : Life Center, 1717 S. Union Ave, Tacoma, WA 98405; 
or 
Community Alternatives for People with Autism, 12001 Pacific Avenue South, Tacoma WA 98444.