WILLIAM GEORGE OSTROM
“BILLY THE KID”
Passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, December 3, 2015, at 95, Billy O. was born March 7,1920 to George and Cora (Silvernail) Ostrom, one of 10 children. He attended City schools. A lifetime lover of baseball and the New York Yankees, he left school at 16 when he was signed to play-semi pro ball with Corning of the Canadian/American league, (later to be bought by the Boston Red Sox). He also played professionals in the Interstate League, New York-New Jersey Semipro League.
Locally, Billy went on to play with the Twilight League, Poughkeepsie Chiefs, Kingston Recreational, Colonial League, Amenia and American Legion.
In his years, he played against the pros, Satchel Page, Joe Dimaggio, Chuck Connor, Roy Campanella and Jackie Robinson who he called “a good kid!”. He even played against a young Fidel Castro from the Cuban Stars.
While playing ball, he owned Billy’s Cigar Store on Main Street.
He has been inducted into the Sports Museum of Duchess County and the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.
After his official career, from 1936-1969, (and at times also playing softball), Billy got a job with the City of Poughkeepsie School District as Head Groundskeeper. He always had contact with his beloved diamond.
He is survived by 4 generations of nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. Calling hours are Sunday, from 2-5 at 371 Hooker Ave. Poughkeepsie NY 12603. Services will take place Monday, 10AM in the Funeral Home and burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery.
As a tribute to “Billy the Kid”, all are encouraged to wear anything baseball (Yankees encouraged!).
Memorial donations can be made to the Sports Museum of Dutchess County and Hudson Valley Hospice.
