Brent Obituary (1955

Merwin B. "Brent" Gosteli died on September 21, 2021 at St. James Hospital in Pontiac IL. He was 66 years of age. He was born on September 9, 1955 to Melvin E. and Margaret E. (Hehman) Gosteli. Brent was raised in Saunemin, IL and attended Saunemin schools, graduating in 1973. He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, serving in both the United States and in Europe from 1973-1977. He married his wife Carol Ann (Immke) on June 24, 1978. Brent served on the Pontiac Police Department as an officer from July 1978 until March 1984. He then was employed by the U.S. Postal Service for 30 years, the last 10 1/2 years he served as the Postmaster for Flanagan. One of the greatest joys of his job was visiting with all who came into the post office and replying to the local children's "Dear Santa" letters. He was a member of the Flanagan American Legion Post #456 and served as Commander on two occasions for the post. He also served on the Flanagan Unit #4 School board for eight years. In retirement, he enjoyed driving buses for kids attending Flanagan schools--much to the surprise of his wife and children. Brent enjoyed fishing--especially the annual trips to Frog Rapids camp in Ontario with his brother Roger, son Brett, nephew Tim, and other family and friends. He loved motorcycling from an early age with his life-long best friend, Jim Schulz, and later with his family. He played a heck of a game of euchre and enjoyed competitive card games at family get-togethers and cookouts. He was an engaging storyteller, could talk with anyone, and never knew a stranger. He is survived by his wife, Carol, his son Brett (Kari) of Morton IL, and his daughter Christina (Kyle) Ensley of Kailua, HI. He was a beloved "Papa" to Addison, Isaac, Evan, and Abigail Gosteli and "Popple" to Allison and George Ensley. Also surviving are two brothers, Roger (Phyllis) Gosteli of Pontiac and Ronnie Gosteli of Dwight, father-in-law Bob Immke of Saunemin, plus many nieces and nephews--all of whom he loved very dearly. He was proceeded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law Joan Immke, and his sister-in-law Joanne Gosteli. Brent's family extends a special thanks to the Flanagan EMT service, Gridley ambulance, and St. James Hospital emergency and ICU staff for their attention and care. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Calvert-Johnson & Froelich Memorial Home, Flanagan is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials can be made to the Flanagan American Legion Post #456.