Martin Ostransky Jr.

Gretna – Martin Ostransky, fondly known to family and friends as “Junior”, passed away peacefully in Gretna, Nebraska, on February 12, 2026. He was 87 years old.

Born on July 14, 1938 in Gretna, Martin was the fourth generation in his family to proudly carry the name “Martin Ostransky.” His early childhood was spent on a family farm, where he helped pick corn by hand alongside his sister, Marjorie. The son of hardworking parents who later found employment in Omaha’s packing houses, Martin’s values of perseverance, humility, and dedication were instilled in him from a young age.

Martin attended Assumption Catholic Grade School and graduated from South High in 1956. A bright student with a natural aptitude for problem-solving, he especially enjoyed studying electricity, algebra, and geometry. To help pay for college, he worked various jobs — from office work at Proua Transportation to pushing beef off the kill floor — never shying away from hard work.

After high school, Martin attended Creighton University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Economics, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Marquette University. While studying at Creighton, Martin met the love of his life, Marj, at a dance at the College of St. Mary’s. The two married in 1960 at St. Thomas More Church in Oakland, California. Together, they built a wonderful life centered around faith, family, and meaningful work.

Martin began his professional career at Kadon Engineering Corporation in Michigan, later relocating to California and then Chicago for roles in engineering and sales. He eventually returned home to Omaha to work for Valmont Industries, where over several decades he rose to become Vice President of Sales. Martin’s leadership, integrity, and innovation were widely respected, and his career took him around the world — from Europe to South America and Asia — helping to grow Valmont’s international presence.

In 1972, Martin and Marj built their family home on a farm outside Omaha, a place that became both a sanctuary and gathering spot for family celebrations, horses, throwing horseshoes, working on Ford Mustangs, and lifelong memories. Family was the true heart of Martin’s life. He was a devoted husband, a proud father to Marty, Marcia, Marie, and Mike, and a loving grandfather.

Martin retired from Valmont in 2005, enjoying time on the farm, traveling with Marj, and evenings on the porch surrounded by family and friends. Even after retirement he dove even deeper into restoring some special Ford Mustangs, but remained deeply engaged in the lives of his children and grandchildren, always ready with advice, humor, and quiet wisdom.

Those who knew Martin will remember his strong work ethic, gentle laugh, and the way he lived without regrets. When asked, he said he had accomplished everything he wished to do — a testament to a life well lived.

Martin is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marj; his parents; and his sister Marjorie Fibich. He is survived by his children, Marty (Krista) Ostransky, Marcia (Tim) Christensen, Marie (Dan) Becker, Mike (Mary) Ostransky; grandchildren Taylor, Taryn, Josh, Elizabeth, Matt, Jessica, Nick and eight great grandchildren.

Visitation Wednesday 5:00 - 6:30 PM with Vigil Service 6:30 PM at Roeder Mortuary. Funeral Mass 10:00 AM Thursday (2/19/26) at St. Patrick Catholic Church 508 Angus Street Gretna, NE. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Memorials to St. Patrick Catholic Church or Gretna Schools Foundation.

Roeder Mortuary 11710 Standing Stone - Gretna, NE - 402-332-0090 www.RoederMortuary.com