Nicholas Ozinga

Nicholas #8220;Nick#8221; Ozinga of Bozeman was born October 7, 1979 in Billings, Montana to Robert and Kate Ozinga. He was a strikingly beautiful child with big blue eyes, dimples, and silky blond hair. Nick passed peacefully October 22, 2009, heaven bound to be with his Grandpa Ruben, leaving his family and friends with many loving memories. Nick grew up in Red Lodge, embracing the outdoor lifestyle wholeheartedly. He skied at age three and was a first snowboarder on Red Lodge Mountain. Nick shared his passion for camping, fishing, boarding and floating the river with his childhood friends Ben, Ryan, Timmy and Kent, who remained lifelong friends and brothers. The Red Lodge school flag flew at half mast for Nick. As a young man, Nick learned to paint locomotives at LRC. His mentors and role models were Mike Miller and Gordy Suda. Nick truly admired and appreciated their help which led to a successful career. He worked for Ressler#8217;s and was currently employed at Bozeman Ford, where he was painter extraordinaire. His talent in graphics was innate. Nick was the #8220;James Dean#8221; of Red Lodge, Livingston and Bozeman. His sparkling eyes, sense of style and captivating energy earned him the nickname #8220;Showbiz#8221;. Nick is dearly missed by his mother, Kate of Livingston; father, Robert of Centreville, MD; brother Michael #8220;Moke#8221; of Livingston; sister, Elizabeth (Ryan) Anderson and nephews Kaaden and Finn of Casper, WY; grandma Betty Steinmetz-Joliet; his true love Alma Bontly of Livinsgton; grandparents, Bob and Milly Ozinga of Ames, IA; and many special aunts, cousins, friends, and his special #8220;bros#8221; #8211; you know who you are. Nick was preceded in death by his grandmother, Mary Jane Ozinga, grandfather Ruben Steinmetz, uncle Lynn Steinmetz, and aunt Jan Steinmetz. There is not enough color in the world to paint a picture of Nick which accurately reflects his life, energy and spirit. Only the good die young. Love forever. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm, Friday October 30, 2009 at St. Andrew#8217;s Episcopal Church, 310 W. Lewis in Livingston. Memorials in Nick#8217;s name may be made to the Big Sky Youth Empowerment Project, PO Box 6757, Bozeman, MT 59771.