Claude Louis Osmun Sr.

Age 102, Claude was born in Ludington, MI. He passed away peacefully on Wednesday February 25.

He was proceeded in death by his first wife Yvonne (Kolekamp) in 1995. Claude is survived by and greatly missed by sons Gregory (Judy), Claude Jr (Karen), Scott (Kathy), and brother, Gordon (Virginia). He was blessed with seven grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren.

During his youth, his family moved to Grand Rapids and took up residence on Irving St. He attended Central High school. While in school, he met a young lady from South High who soon became the love of his life. In 1938 Claude and Yvonne (known as Bonnie) were married. He had been trained as welder, and soon moved to Bay City. As part of the war effort he worked building ships. In time, his young family moved back to Grand Rapids. Upon his return, he worked as a welder for a trucking company and for a short time, partnered in an automobile repair business. He eventually joined the City of Grand Rapids and took a position working at the water treatment and pumping station on the shores of Lake Michigan. At one point, while working for the City, he was recruited to assist with the construction of the Mackinac Bridge as a welder, but made the decision to continue working for the water works.  Eventually he was proudly promoted to the position of plant superintendent. He retired from the City of Grand Rapids in 1980. Since then he divided his time between Key Largo, FL and Brooks Lake, MI. More recently, he has resided with his son Greg in Grand Rapids.

Claude had a number of interests, hobbies and accomplishments. He was never afraid of any project. With an attitude of why pay someone else when you can do it yourself, he built his own cottage, including all electric, plumbing, roofing, and installing a well. In his younger years he partnered in the ownership of a stock car and was the chief mechanic. They raced at the Speedrome and a number of other local tracks.

While cars are essential, his motorcycles were his love. Owning numerous “bikes” through the years, he rode motorcycles well into his 90’s. For a number of years he and Bonnie were members of the Border Patrol motorcycle club. They rode throughout the state for meetings and fun. He served as President of the club in addition to other duties with the organization.

He did love the outdoors and deer hunted every year until he started going to Florida in the fall after retirement. Fishing sometimes in Michigan, but a lot in Florida, especially when his family was able to join him.

He started playing golf in his 50’s when his boys took to up the game. As a result, he was in many golf leagues through the years, both in Michigan and in Florida. One of his most favorite golf events was the annual Moose state tournament. Both he and Bonnie played along with his brothers, their wives and many other couples. Another favorite outing was Father’s Day. A family gathering of fathers, sons, in-laws and out-laws. Father’s Day will never be the same from now on. He loved to dance and for a number years square danced in Key Largo with a group of dancers that put dances on for the entertainment of others.

He was a kind hearted person and would help out others frequently. Back in the 50’s he volunteered to drive Mary Free Bed patients home for the holidays. Driving as far as Detroit to help a family.

He loved to watch sports on TV. His favorite teams were of course the Tigers and the Lions. He was a lifetime member of the Moose International, Laddies Sports Club in Grand Rapids, and the Key Largo Civics Club. At the Civic club, he wore many hats, and more than once served as president of the organization.

He was a gregarious person, he loved people, and cared for people. In return he was loved by so many others. That love was shown when over 300 people attended his 100^th Birthday Party.

Memorial contributions in Claude’s name can be made to Grand Rapids Oral Deaf.   https://grodgolf.com/

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