William E. Ohland

William (Bill) Ernest Ohland went to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on December 23, 2023.   He was born June 6, 1931, in Winthrop, Minnesota, to Alfred and Lillian (Voight) Ohland.  He was raised in Winthrop and enjoyed spending time on his aunt and uncle’s farm.  After graduating from Winthrop High School in 1951, he served in the U.S. Army, primarily in Panama, during the Korean War.  On September 11, 1954, he wed MaryAnn Messner and was married for 64 years.  They lived in Minnesota, Montana, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, prior to residing in Kalamazoo for about five decades. 

He was a Certified Court Reporter for 40 years serving several circuit courts with a majority of his career spent with Allegan County in Michigan.  He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church for 44 years where he often served as an usher.  He enjoyed golfing, bowling, playing bridge, and traveling.  In his early days, he enjoyed fishing and hunting with his brothers and friends.  He was hard working, provided well for his family, valued education and gave his children multiple educational opportunities.

Bill is survived by his children, Sandra (Gary) Inselman, Bill (Becky) Ohland, Shari (Ted) Gajary, and Bruce (Sarah) Ohland; 19 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; sister Carol Gorr; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, his parents, and five siblings, Elvira Hansen, Verness Ohland, Myron Ohland,  Alroy Ohland, and LaVonne Ohland.