Marsha Marie (Ostermann) Mingle

Marsha Marie (Ostermann) Mingle, 77, passed away July 29, 2026, after a relatively brief illness as a result of metastatic lung cancer.

Born on May 2, 1949, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Bud and Corde Ostermann, Marsha attended Our Savior Lutheran School and later Shawnee Mission North High School. She graduated with a degree in art education from the University of Kansas in 1976 and worked in elementary art education for more than 30 years, mostly within the Shawnee Mission School District.

Marsha is survived by Ralph, the love of her life and her husband of 45 years; her daughters, Sarah Mingle Lindshield (Jason Lindshield) and Katherine Mingle (Alex Dickey); and her beloved grandson, Giovanni, with whom she shared a truly special bond. She is also survived by her siblings, John (Althea), Kathy (Michael), Sharon, and Tom (Pam), as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends. Above all, Marsha was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and a dear friend to so many, and was a woman of faith.

Marsha had a heart of gold and a true passion for living, finding deep joy in the natural world and the outdoors. An animal lover who held a soft spot for all creatures great and small, she brought boundless compassion to her interactions with pets and wildlife alike.

She loved to travel and explore the world, whether taking weeklong family fishing trips to Ontario (sitting on a rock outside painting), enjoying spring break on the beaches of Captiva, Florida, skiing in the mountains of Colorado, traveling with family to Europe (particularly Italy and Spain), or taking extended stays in Mexico, with each of these destinations holding a very special place in her heart.

Marsha had a sense of humor that would be hard to rival. She deeply enjoyed the company of others, whether connecting with teaching colleagues, high school/ lifelong friends, or family.

She was a naturally talented planner of activities and gatherings, with the unforgettable “Spring Flings” held at her family’s farm in Concordia, Missouri, remaining a favorite memory for all. Family and friends were always her highest priorities.

Over the years, Marsha would occasionally play the piano, especially during family Christmas gatherings. She also had a wonderful fondness for classic black and white movies.

Blessed with an amazing, artful eye, she was also a marvelous decorator who could effortlessly make any house she lived in feel beautiful and welcoming. This was always made complete by her lifelong devotion to German Shepherd Dogs, every single one of which she affectionately named Luke.

Marsha will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Her celebration of life is planned to occur in Leawood, KS in November. Contact the family for details.