HOCHSTRASSER, Oscar (Big O)

Oscar "Big O" Hochstrasser Passed away unexpectedly on April 9, 2004 at age 81. He is survived by Helen, his loving wife of 59 years, and his children Wayne, Donna, Oscar Jr., and Sevak (Gregory). He leaves behind three sisters Nellie, Jane, and Jean, as well as 11 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. Born in Corydon, Indiana. Oscar was raised on a small farm in Kentucky. At age 20 he entered the Navy, serving his country during WWII on a PT boat. In 1945 Oscar married Helen. Three years later they moved to Phoenix where in 1950 he started his career with Mountain Bell. Since retiring in 1983, Oscar not only spent time helping family, friends, and neighbors, he also volunteered his talents to his community. Oscar was an active member of St. Theresa's Parish for 30 years. Since 1950 he participated in numerous civic activities as a member of the Elks Club. As a retiree, he also served with the "Telephone Pioneers", helped with city elections, and volunteered at a non-profit thrift store. Oscar loved to spend his leisure time traveling the world, following Nascar, playing cards, and golfing. In 1997, caddied by his only grandson Kevin, Oscar led his team to win the Phoenix Open Desert Pro-Am. As a life-long racing fan, he was regularly spotted in the pits at the Indy 500. In his world travels, Oscar joyously set foot on six of the seven continents. His presence always generated goodwill...a man who never met a stranger...his positive attitude shone through his constant smile. He may have seemed an average man in the eyes of the world, but Oscar meant the world to those who knew him. Visitation and Scripture service Wednesday, April 14 at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School. Services Thursday, April 15th, at St. Theresa's Catholic Church, 5045 E. Thomas Rd. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Oscar's favorite charities: The American Heart Association or The American Cancer Society. Published in the Arizona Republic on 4/14/2004.