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Donald John Bosscher

December 07, 1930 - February 06, 2025

Obituary For Donald John Bosscher

Donald John Bosscher, age 94, went to his eternal home on February 6, 2025. He was born December 7, 1930, to John and Cora (Hesselink) Bosscher in the family farmhouse located just west of McBain. He was born and died in the same home.

He grew up during the Depression, working alongside his father on the farm and eventually taking over the farm when his father retired in 1955. On August 24, 1951, he married his best friend and love of his life, Eleanor Mae Ellens. Together, they raised a family of nine children, eight boys and one girl, with lots of love, faith, and devotion. He instilled kindness, devotion, and a strong work ethic in his children. Don cared for his neighbors and community and gave unselfishly of his time. He followed in his father's footsteps in community service by serving on the Missaukee County Board of Commissioners for 15 years, of which the last six years he served as chairman. After retirement from that board, he went on to serve 18 years on the Missaukee County Road Commission, being chairman for most of those years. He served as a deacon and an elder at the Lucas Christian Reformed Church and then spent many years worshiping at Rehoboth Reformed Church, being a steady example and silent mentor to many. He loved the Lord and lived his life in a way that was a solid example of that love.

During their busy years on the farm, he developed a love for getting away to the remote wilderness of Ontario, Canada, for fishing trips, creating memories with some of his boys and friends that are still shared today. Don retired from farming at 62, and he and Eleanor spent the next 23 years being “snowbirds” in Apache Junction, Arizona. They made many friends from all over, and Don quickly became the “go-to” guy for all kinds of projects in the park. In retirement, Don also used his early skills from the Chris Craft boat factory to take up woodworking and furniture building. He assisted most of his children and many of his grandchildren in various projects and created many items for charity fundraisers.

Don is survived by his children Rich (Beth) Bosscher, Mike (Vicki) Bosscher, Jim (Cindy) Bosscher, Daughter-in-law Patti Bosscher, Dave (Mary) Bosscher, Larry (Ruby Diane) Bosscher, Karen (Greg) Koster, Greg (Shelly, fiancé) Bosscher, Jerry (Julie, special friend) Bosscher, 5 nephews and nieces, Sister-in-law Joyce VanHouten ,57 Grandchildren ,65 Great Grandchildren ,2 Great -Great- Grandchildren.

Don was proceeded in death by His Wife Eleanor, Son Thomas Bosscher, Parents John and Cora Bosscher, Brother and Sister-in-law Harold and Claire, Father and Mother-in-law Harry and Gladys Ellens, Brothers-in-law Robert VanHouten, Ed VanHouten.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at the Rehoboth Reformed Church in Lucas with Pastor Kathy Vana officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 10th from 5-7 PM at the church and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Burial will take place in the Richland Township Cemetery in the spring. A luncheon will be held after the service in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Friends Ministry/ Work Share program. The family is being served by the Burkholder Family Funeral Home in McBain, thoughts and prayers can be expressed to the family by visiting the online obituary at burkholderfamilyfuneralhome.com.

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Condolences

February 10, 2025

Gabby Chapman

My deepest sympathies are extended to the entire Bosscher family. Brian and I admired Mr Bosscher. He was kind, had a servants heart, and impeccable love for his family and friends. You are in my thoughts and prayers
February 09, 2025

Sue Kuipers

So sorry for the passing of your father, Don. He was the one who 1st told us about the Bosscher Dairy farm. Adrian Lucas took us to meet your parents and now we have a very nice photo of my great grandfather and wife with my grandfather Jacob and his sisters on the original farm. Thank you for keeping the farm going w your Dad and Mom. I was at the centennial celebration also. Hope to visit again Sue Kuipers, daughter of Dave Bosscher(the youngest of Jacob B)
February 08, 2025

Joy (Bosscher) Jurries

My father, the late Harry Bosscher, was Don's cousin and friend. I was privileged to accompany Dad on some of his visits with Don and so enjoyed getting to know him a little bit. I'll never forget the wonderful party your family threw for the Centennial Farm designation! Praying for you as you mourn this loss.
February 08, 2025

Doris Brumels

Don was a voice of reason and compromise, and a good friend to Bruce and I. That voice will be missed. I send my love to you all. Doris Brumels
February 07, 2025

Frances VandenBoss

You all have my sympathy. Prayers for your comfort
February 07, 2025

Jim Zinger

I have many wonderful memories of Don during my time at Rehoboth Church, especially the fishing trip we took to Canada. He was always a kind and caring and friendly man. May God bless the whole Bosscher family during this time!