Cover photo for Terry L. Oosterhart's Obituary
Terry L. Oosterhart Profile Photo
1960 Terry 2024

Terry L. Oosterhart

September 1, 1960 — May 16, 2024

Marshall

Terry Lenn Oosterhart, 63, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, teacher, musician, and treasured friend, passed away in his home and entered God’s Heavenly Kingdom on May 16, 2024. His absence leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Born in Muskegon, MI, Terry grew up with his siblings and parents in Fruitport, MI, where he graduated from Fruitport High School. He then earned his bachelor’s degree from Olivet College (University) and a master’s degree from Northern Michigan University. He was a dedicated teacher throughout the state of Michigan. Terry’s heart was always on his sleeve, enriching every life he touched. He loved family, friends, traveling, baseball, NASCAR, music, cooking, politics, history, teaching, and shared contagious laughter. 

Terry’s passion for music provided the opportunity to enjoy the radio industry as a DJ on several local stations, and DJ at events. He also sang and played the mandolin, bass, electric and acoustic guitars. He performed at local venues and built a vast music family across the country. Terry was a proud K-12 band, choir and music teacher in several schools state-wide and enjoyed sharing his appreciation for music with his students for over 20 years.

Terry married his soulmate Debra K. England on June 7, 1997 in Springport, MI at Springport Speedway where Terry was also the announcer, a job he enjoyed very much. Their marriage was founded on faith, each other and the focus on blending both families as one. Throughout their 27 years, they lived together in Albion, Ontonagon, Ludington and Marshall, Michigan. Together they enjoyed going to garage sales, going to the beach, traveling, watching the Detroit Tigers, going to the racetrack, and watching their grandsons play hockey. They also cherished watching sunsets together and the beauty of nature. 

Terry is survived by his wife, Debra K. Oosterhart; sons, Dennis Oosterhart, Douglas (Kristin) Oosterhart, Michael Hoffdahl; daughter, Amy (Claude) Plante; grandchildren, Luc Plante, Kelton Plante, Greyson Oosterhart, and Ava Oosterhart; parents, Sandra (Claude) Christiansen; siblings, Michael (Dr. Kareen) Oosterhart, Sheryl (Ken) Start, Dale (Jamie) Oosterhart, and Steven Oosterhart; nieces; nephews; and Terry’s best four-legged friend, Xander. 

Terry was preceded in death by his grandparents; father, Jerry Oosterhart and brother-in-law, Darrell Clark.

Family will receive guests Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at Kempf Family Funeral & Cremation Services 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068 from 3-6pm with a Celebration of Life service starting at 6pm.
  
If desired, memorial contributions are suggested to the family to assist with expenses, please see a funeral home representative.
 
To leave a message for the family visit http://kempffuneralhome.com 




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