NEW PALESTINE
Thomas Lee “Ozzy” Osburn, 72, was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandpa, and friend. He passed away at home May 26, 2021.
Tom was born November 16, 1948, to Rudolph & Agnes (Daly) Osburn in Indianapolis. Tom attended elementary school at St. Philip Neri and then played basketball for Scecina High School, where he graduated in 1966. In 1968, while a postal worker, he delivered his own draft letter. He served the Army in Vietnam until he was seriously injured by a land mine on February 23, 1969, losing both legs.
After healing, he started playing professional wheelchair basketball in 1971 for the Indianapolis Olympians. Following that, he played for the Indy Mustangs and helped them win the National Championship in 1973, ’74, and ’75. He finished his career by briefly playing for the Black Knights in Illinois.
On December 18, 1971, he married Elizabeth Wagner of Rushville. Tom was an avid sports fan and music lover. He was Neil Young’s biggest fan. His son, Neil, and he shared a love for Notre Dame football and IU Basketball, rarely missing watching a game together. He had long conversations with his daughter, Jessica, about all genres of music. He and Liz enjoyed watching the backyard birds together while chatting. He was an active member of the youth sports community in New Palestine, helping coach Babe Ruth league and youth basketball.
Besides his wife and children, Tom is survived by his grandsons, Gabriel & Liam, Jim Aikman (BIL), Kathy Wagner (SIL), Tom (Elaine) Wagner (BIL), Mike (Tammy) Wagner (BIL), cousins, nieces, & nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Judy Aikman.
A casual celebration of life service is planned for June 19th at the New Palestine Lion’s Club from 1-5 p.m., with a memorial service held at 3 p.m. Please wear fan gear (sports or music) or patriotic shirts in honor of Tom. Donations can be made to Indiana Folds of Honor or to the Judy Osburn Aikman Scholarship Fund, 037-0477, 1400 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202.
