May 23, 1935–Sept. 6, 2020
Warm and booming, his voice energized crowds during football games. His baritone timbre greeted callers on Colgate University’s voicemail system. The radio station WCNY-FM even showcased his knack for expressive vocal presentation and entertainment when he starred as an announcer.
William J. “Bill” Oostenink was well known on campus for his love of teaching and passion for community building — as well as for his signature voice. As a biology professor at Colgate, he instilled in students a curiosity for plant anatomy, genetics and electron microscopy, and cellular biology.
Oostenink graduated from Calvin College in 1956 with degrees in music and natural sciences before teaching at Hope College and the University of Iowa. As part of Iowa’s botany department, he trained as an experimental plant morphologist. Examining a combination of microscopy, genetics, and plant anatomy, he described how plant organs develop their form and function. His studies focused on the interaction of environmental and genetic factors and the role they play in controlling developmental processes. He expressed a special interest in apical meristem — the region of cells that can produce flowers under certain conditions.
After coming to Colgate in 1965, Oostenink taught biology courses and gained esteem as a compelling lecturer. He served as Colgate’s first dean of freshmen and led the Colgate Family Summer Program. Oostenink directed the Colgate/IBM Summer Institute for Middle Management Executives, as well as the Summer Institute for Junior High School Teachers of General Science sponsored by the National Science Foundation. Although he retired from his tenure stream position in 1996, he continued to teach for another year.
“In addition to his work in the classroom, Bill’s service to the University was wide ranging and admirable,” Provost and Dean of the Faculty Tracey E. Hucks wrote in an email to the Colgate community. “Bill was a member of many committees throughout his years at Colgate, but his most notable service was serving as University marshal for 25 years.”
Oostenink never lost his zest for the fine arts. An avid singer, he provided music for a number of church services, weddings, and funerals across central New York. He also played the bass for several popular oratorios and requiem masses presented by choral groups throughout the area. A multitalented performer, he captivated audiences in musical theater productions, appearing in shows like My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music, Oklahoma!, Guys and Dolls, and Kiss Me Kate.
Harboring a deep appreciation for his Hamilton, N.Y., home, Oostenink committed to several leadership positions to support and uplift the community. He served on the Hamilton Central School Board, Hamilton Public Library Board, and Internal Review Board of Community Memorial Hospital.
He died at the age of 85. He is survived by his wife, Gretchen; his son; two granddaughters; and his sister.