Reverend Richard Lee Ostrander Sr, 72, went home with Jesus on October 17th, 2021.

 

Born in 1949 to Myron and Lounetta Ostrander, he was best known to his friends and family as a pastor and follower of Christ, diehard Michigan State fan, John Wayne enthusiast, or pretty much anything western, and an individual who could light up the room and make the world feel less dark with his friendly disposition, warm embrace, unbelievable prayers, and terrible jokes. 

 

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Lydia Ostrander (Snider); their daughters Jennifer (Tommy) and Elizabeth (Kevin); their sons Richard Jr (Sherry) and Andrew (Laura); his grandchildren Natasha (Derrick), Sean, Lacie, Melonie, Israel (Ashlen), Richard Jr III, Blessing (Justin), Abbigail, Adam, Andrea, Ashton, Lydia, Malachi, and Emmanuel; his brothers Fred and Ron; his sisters Nancy, Julie, and Linda; his brothers-in-law Claude (Sherry) and Larry (Faye); his sisters-in-law, Bea (Ted), Gladys (Larry), and Fran, all of whom he was very close to; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Mike and Don, sisters Gloria, Carol, and Jean and grandchildren Austin, Gabrielle, and Adonai. 

 

Richard served the Lord as Pastor at various churches, including Big Rapids Free Methodist Church. He was a loving father, brother, husband, grandfather, and friend to so many people. Richard will be dearly missed every single day and remembered for his absolutely beautiful, kind, loving, crazy, humble, and generous spirit. He is likely looking down at us all and saying, "Glory Hallelujah"; "I didn't do too bad.” 

 

Isaiah 40:31 - But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. 

 

Richard’s family will greet friends on Wednesday, October 20, 2021, from 6-8 p.m., and Thursday, October 21, 2021, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8p.m. at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, MI. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Friday, October 22, 2021, at the Reed City Church of the Nazarene, with Pastor Chris DeMott officiating. A luncheon will follow at the church, and committal with burial will be on Saturday at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Jackson. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for final expenses.  Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.