To know him, was to love him- and for that we have been blessed. Former Senator Darwin L. Booher, lifelong Evart resident, passed away in Grand Rapids on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the age of 82. Darwin was born, in Evart, on September 19, 1942, at Rohen’s Maternity House, to Darrel and Cleo (Knoop) Booher. In 1961, he graduated from Evart High School and began his life’s journey, in banking, as a family man, public servant, and farmer.

On August 1, 1964 he married Janice M. Gauld in Cadillac. They made their home in Evart where they raised their children and opened their home to 10 exchange students from all over the world. Darwin worked his way up the corporate ladder from vault teller to vice president at First National Bank, later becoming Citizens Bank. In 2005, he became a selfless representative with a servant's heart for the state of Michigan. He was a member of the House of Representatives from 2005-2010 and served his district as Senator from 2011-2018. Darwin always hoped his family understood why he did it. Janice and Darwin always looked forward to traveling, family vacations, and as they got older, occasionally, testing their luck at the casino. 

Darwin was an avid hunter and fisherman who was happiest when he could spend time with his grandchildren or on his tractor farming. He believed in learning by doing. Darwin typically taught his grandchildren how to drive on farm implements, that usually came back with a dent or two, led to numerous memories, and innovative fabrication. Darwin always put his loving family first and in his last moments conveyed that he would have a canoe oar waiting for his brother, Ernie and his dancing shoes ready for his wife, Janice.

Left to treasure the memories they have of Darwin are: his beloved wife of 60 years, Janice; four children, Kimberly (RJ) Booher-Hammer of Evart, Chad (Amy) Booher of Evart, Jason Booher of Florida and Meko Olman of Grand Rapids; six grandchildren, Logan (Lindsay) Hammer, Andrew (Makenzie) Booher, Madison Hammer, Christian Booher, Aidan Olman and Jacob Booher; one great grandson, Liam Hammer; step great-grandchildren, Michael and Cameron Triboletti; brother, Ernie Booher of Evart; in-laws, Robert Sherman and Chuck (Robin) Keysor; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends.

Darwin was preceded in death by: his parents; siblings, Bonnie (James) McKay and Linda Sherman and sister-in-law, Carolyn Booher.

Funeral services for Darwin was held 1PM on Friday, March 21st at the Evart Community Building (Osceola Co. Fairgrounds), 101 Recreation Ave., with visitation two hours prior (11AM - 1PM). Visitation took place from 2PM to 4PM and 6PM to 8PM on Thursday at Corey Funeral Home in Evart.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Corewell Health Hospice- Blodgett Hospital at https://corewellhealth.org/foundation/west/ways-to-give/memorials-and-tributes.

They went above and beyond all expectations to not only ensure Darwin’s comfort and care were met but his family's needs as well. Expressions of sympathy can be left online at www.coreyfuneralhome.com