Jann (Heffner) Osterkamp

Born at Oakland Naval Hospital to loving and committed parents Chet and Jane Heffner, Jann lived a life of accomplishment in the fields of child welfare and adoption. She enjoyed the love of her husband, Kevin Osterkamp, her brother, Grayson, and sister-in-law Ann Heffner. The pride of her life was her daughter, Casey, her son-in-law Beau Underwood and grandson Jesse. Jann earned her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Washington, her Master’s Degree from Ohio State University, and her law degree from Capital University.

She began her career as the health and welfare Director for the Columbus Urban League followed by serving as an associate at the Academy of Contemporary Problems. She then worked her way from a legal intern to the Deputy Director of the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Retardation. Later, she served as the Director of the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Board of Franklin County, the Executive Director of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and the Director of the Butler County Children Services.

Jann was a visionary who consistently strove to better the lives of those she served. Over the course of these positions Jann paid special attention to encouraging others to join her in taking on careers in service to others. She enjoyed travel and reading, but foremost in her mind was a love for spending time with family and friends. After a long battle with cancer she succumbed to the disease at Kobacker house on October 15th. She was surrounded by those who loved her the most. A memorial service will be held at Worthington Presbyterian Church, 773 High Street at 10am on Wednesday, October 19th. In lieu of flowers donations to Kobacher House (Ohio Health Hospice) or Worthington Presbyterian Church are encouraged.