Lester Jay Ossewaarde

Lester Jay Ossewaarde (“Les” to his friends, “Ossie” to his wife, Barbara, and “Mr. O.” to the hundreds of students who loved him), age 86, of Ocala, Florida (formerly of Birch Run, Michigan) passed away on December 10th, 2022. Lester was born at home on the farm in Allendale, Michigan to William and Anna Ossewaarde on February 18, 1936. He graduated from Coopersville High School in 1954 and went on to earn degrees from both the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. He was employed as a school guidance counselor and teacher for 29 years in the Birch Run School system and then spent 10 years as an employee of the Internal Revenue Service.

As a young man, he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior, and that was the driving influence for all he did in his life. His Christian character was lived out in the way he loved his family and in his faithful service in church as deacon, Sunday School teacher, sound system operator, etc. for many decades. He was a tender-hearted man who would give anything he could to anyone who needed his time, treasures, or talents. This kind, benevolent spirit was demonstrated in one aspect by his donation of over 24 gallons of blood throughout the years.

Lester loved woodworking and was a knowledgeable and talented “Mr. Fixit” for building and DIY projects of all kinds. He coached a chess club during his teaching days, and always loved playing the game. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was more than willing to share chuckles with anyone and everyone through his large, ever-ready supply of jokes.

Lester was predeceased by his parents and by his wife of 49 years, Marlene Mae (Anderson) Ossewaarde. He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Barbara Ossewaarde, his children: Jerry (Laurie) Ossewaarde, Don Ossewaarde, Lori (Jay) Kirkpatrick, Robert (Jodi) Ossewaarde, and Randy Ossewaarde, 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Also survived by his stepchildren who dearly loved him; Randy, Jason, JoAnn, JoDee, Kevin, and DeAnn, and many step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 29th from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the Case Funeral Home, 5700 Dixie Highway, Saginaw, Michigan. A funeral service will be held at the same location at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Donald and Rev. Robert Ossewaarde officiating. Burial will follow at the Cook Cemetery, 13000 Seymour Road, Birch Run, Michigan, 48415.

Roberts of Ocala, Florida, Funeral Home and W. L. Case and Company Funeral Chapel of Saginaw, Michigan, will be handling the funeral arrangements.