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Floyd Oglesby Obituary

Floyd C. Oglesby Battle Creek Floyd C. Oglesby, 86, died on Friday, October 15, 2010, surrounded by his family. He was born December 28, 1923, the son of Bryan and Olive (Schultz) Oglesby in LuVerne, Iowa, spending most of his youth in Mason City, Iowa. He graduated from Mason City High in 1941 where he met his future wife, Gwen, whistling at her when he saw her for the first time. Floyd joined the US Army Air Corp in 1943. He flew thirty missions over Europe as a tail gunner on a B-24 Liberator in the 8th Air Force. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with three clusters, and Croix de Guerre of France. He flew two missions over France on June 6th, D-Day and was discharged October 10, 1945. On December 10, 1945, Floyd C. Oglesby was united in marriage to Gwendolyn "Gwen" Rampton in Mason City, IA. He earned a BA at the University of Northern Iowa in 1950. He also wrestled for UNI, placing second in the NCAA Finals Wrestling Tournament in 1950. Floyd taught school for one year in Osage, IA, for two years in Hampton, IA, then taught school at Battle Creek Central beginning in 1953. He earned an MA from Western Michigan University in 1959. During his twelve years at Central, Floyd taught U.S. History, was a Counselor, Director of Guidance, Wrestling Coach and Assistant Football Coach. He left high school teaching to work at Kellogg Community College, first as Dean of Students then as a counselor for 22 years. He was a member of the NEA and MEA. Floyd was elected to Battle Creek City Commission for six consecutive two year terms (1972-1984). He served as Vice Mayor for two years and as Mayor for three years. He played a lead role in attaining mandatory refuse collection, and was mayor when Battle Creek Township merged with the city of Battle Creek. Floyd signed documents establishing the sister city relationship with Takasaki, Japan, and was an ardent supporter of Battle Creek Unlimited. He played a role in railroad consolidation and dedicated the Miller Bridge on Washington Street, which enabled autos to by-pass rail crossings. In 1988, Floyd was inducted into the Michigan Wrestling Association Hall of Fame for his contributions as a wrestling coach during his career and in 2009, he and his 1950 NCAA champion wrestling team were inducted into the University of Northern Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame. Floyd loved grand parenting, listening to music, reading non-fiction, fishing, bird watching, spectator sports, working on the computer, politics, and watching PBS and C-Span. Floyd will be forever remembered for his kindness, love of people, love of life, and boundless love for his family, especially Gwen, the love of his life. Floyd is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Gwen, and four daughters: Julie (Greg) Hoelscher of Holland, Jo-Ellyn (Steve) Holt of Broomfield, CO, Jill (Barry) Dehlin of Okemos, and Mary (Matt) Fenske of Grand Rapids, thirteen grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren; sister, Maryo Griffin and brother, Bill Oglesby. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bryan Oglesby. The family will welcome friends from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday October 20, 2010 at Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, October 21, 2010 at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, with full military honors. Friends may make memorial contributions to Battle Creek Community Foundation. Personal remembrances may be made at www.farleyestesdowdle.com

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Published by Battle Creek Enquirer from Oct. 18 to Oct. 20, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Floyd Oglesby

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Bob Secrist

October 11, 2024

May my sympathies and God's blessings go to Gwen and the family. Both Floyd and I being from Iowa, being military veterans, and being colleagues at Kellogg Community College, I learned how wonderful a family man and friend he was. He was all! We had so many great times together, times that cannot be replicated. Of course we joked to the Michiganders, that we from Iowa, the Corn State, added dignity to Michigan. May God be with you!

Jack Emory

November 16, 2010

Mr. Oglesby was my high school counselor and wrestling coach. I remember him as encouraging, positive, and always there if you needed someone to talk to. I also remember him and his woody station wagon hauling some of us home after wrestling practice. A few years later, I encountered him as a counselor at KCC where once again he was there to help, counsel, and encourage me in my endeavors. He was dedicated to serving and helping others all the while having fun in the process. I send my condolence to his family.

November 12, 2010

To The Family of Mr. Oglesby, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Floyd. He was my counselor at KCC and Mary worked for me at the Town Theater.

Steve Miller Council Bluffs, Iowa

Janet (Ciesielski) Wies

October 23, 2010

Dear Oglesby Family: In 1973, when I was 39 years old, Floyd became my counselor when I arrived at KCC. He had a significant impact on my student life, always available and ready to help me cope with the intense work involved and guiding my academic path. I've never ever forgotten him. Just today I read of his passing and his Guest Book entries, learning of the significant impact he continued to have on the many lives he touched in his lifetime! I am so sorry for your loss. Rest in peace, Floyd.

Linda Collins Reynolds

October 23, 2010

Dear JoEllyn and Family,
So sorry to hear about the passing of your father. One is never ready to give up a parent. He certainly was a great person. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Pat Ingersoll

October 22, 2010

Hi Gwen, This is Pat you housekeeper from Battle Creek, I am so sorry to hear of Floyds passing...I just found out today(Friday), I wish I would have known, I would have come to his funeral...I would have loved to see you again and give you a great big hug....I hope you are finding peaceful moments in this time of such great loss...You and Floyd was very special people in mine and Ashleys life, we still talk about you and always wondered how you were doing. Again I am so sorry for your loss and here is a big (((((((((((hug))))))))) for you, would like to know your address so maybe Ashley and I could come visit you sometime....and of coarse bring the baby(Paris) who is now 3....So much love coming your way from me Gwen, hang in there!

Ivan Fall

October 21, 2010

Dear Gwen. My deepest sympathy to you upon Floyds passing. You and Floyd are one of the nicest couples I have ever known. May God be with you at this time of need.
Ivan Fall, Port St. Lucie, Fla.

Georgia (Ferguson) Sullivan

October 21, 2010

Mr. Oglesby (as he will always be to me) was my boss in counseling when he first came to KCC and he was one of the best people I ever worked for - kind, funny, and always supportive. I regretted being transferred to Student Activities because it meant I wouldn't work for him anymore. I hadn't seen him in years, but thought about him often and wondered how he was. Goodby, Mr. Oglesby.

Tom Keyser

October 21, 2010

In 1969 a letter from Floyd when I attended KCC helped make me aware of the Kellogg's CO-OP program through the food distribution program at WMU. Floyd worked to secure me an interview at Kellogg's and I was selected for the program. It allowed me to pay for college and provided me with a GRRREAT job with Kellogg's in sales after college. I went to BCCHS graduating in 1967 with Julie and met Floyd on many occasions. I will always appreciate the opportunity he made available to me that had such a positive impact in my life. God Bless!

Tamara R Pearlman

October 21, 2010

To the Oglesby Family, I learned of Mr. Oglesby's passing just today. My sister Patty had said she had stopped by the funeral home. Ironically, Jill has been on my mind as of late and I even strove to email her via classsmates.com on the 19th. My 6th sense kicking in.
I am so sorry for your loss. Your Dad (and husband) was such a great person for me to look up to growing up. I loved being around your family and you were always so kind to me.
I am with you all in thought and prayer at your time of loss. May God Bless you all and ease you through your grief.
With Much Love, Tamara "Tammy" Pearlman

October 20, 2010

To the Floyd Oglesby Family:
The Battle Creek Central Class of 1960 would like to say just how much he meant to us. He was wonderful instructor, coach, mentor and friend to us all. After all these years we have not forgotten just how special he was.

Gene Smith

October 20, 2010

Dear Gwen and Family, You all were the best neighbors when we were kids, so sorry for the loss of Floyd. He was a GREAT man!

October 20, 2010

Hi Gwen - here is a voice from the past. i am so sorry on your loss of Floyd. He wAs a magnificant person. I envy your lifelong love.
Linda Schirmer

Bob Secrist

October 20, 2010

Dear Gwen, Julie, Mary, Jill, and JoEllen,

I extend the deepest sympathies to you upon Floyd's passing.
I appreciated Floyd giving me support as a fellow Hawkeye when I arrived at Kellogg Community College.
I appreciated Floyd chiding me for being from the University of Iowa instead of UNI.
I appreciated Floyd encouraging my daughter as she began and completed her Kellogg Community College education.
I appreciated Floyd loyalty to the Kellogg Faculty Association through all of the years.
I appreciated working with Floyd in Battle Creek politics and the Party.
I appreciate Floyd's support and comfort when I needed someone to listen.
We all appreciate the honor, tribute, and humor he brought to the college, the community and to his family.
Thanks Floyd! We will miss you.

Teresa Bonham

October 20, 2010

The Bonham Family is saddened to hear the news of Floyd's passing. As a family of wrestlers his passion and excitement for the sport was contagious. Our fondest memory of him was shouting to the young middle school wrestlers "BELIEVE"..and that is what Floyd has demonstrated throughout his life to believe in Love, Family,Country, and Community..Our entire family is so blessed to have been touched by this remarkable man.

October 20, 2010

To the family of Floyd Oglesby, I would love to share a story or a truth about your loved one. In 1973 I was 32, at KCC to get my GED, I had 3 children at home in Marshall, it was saturday Dec 14th, I was there to get my GED so I could go on with my education, so I could get off welfare and get a job to provide for my children, That day when I, Thank God passed and received my GED, when I went out to get in my car I had a flat tire, not even knowing if I had a spare and I did not even have a quarter to make a call for help, I went back in the school and that was when Mr. Oglesby stopped me and ask me what was the problem, I explained my kids would be worried if I was not home when I told themI would be and I could not call because I did not have money for the pay phone, not only did Mr. Oglesby let me use his office phone, He went out in the cold, with a suit on, He changed my tire, charged me nothing, And told me to go and have a great life. That day he taught me to have faith in people, because God puts people in our path to help us, and to always pass it forward, thank you all for letting me share what I know all of you know, what a wonderful person Mr. Oglesby was and how his life made a difference. DeAnna (Wilkerson) Livernois, Marshall, Michigan

Michelle Lemke

October 19, 2010

Dear Oglesby Family,

I am so sorry to hear the news about Floyd's passing. He was such a funny, happy guy, who was always smiling and I have many great memories of him. I remember him always joking around.

It was so nice to see him recently at my dad's funeral. I think they are in heaven together...probably laughing and cracking jokes.

Again, I'm so sorry for your loss. Floyd was such an amazing man and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Janice (king) Miller

October 19, 2010

As a graduate of 1959 I remember Mr. Oglesby very well. I believe we referred to him as "Flowerery Floyd". He was a very sweet man and has left a lasting memory.

Vallerie Jannie

October 19, 2010

The Jannie Family in Marion, Iowa were saddened to hear of Floyd’s passing. Floyd was very dear to our hearts. He was always up-beat, a jokester, funny, smart, and young-at-heart. We enjoyed his visits whenever he and Gwen were passing through Marion. Even as kids, when we got word that Floyd was coming, we couldn’t wait until he, Gwen, and the girls arrived. He was a wonderful Uncle and family man. His was truly a life well-lived. We will miss him dearly. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Arlene Tannis

October 19, 2010

When I first moved to Battle Creek in 1980, Mr. Oglesby was one of the first civic leaders I met (when I covered city and township meetings for "Keener 14" news). He was always accessable, never mean-spirited, and as I remember always had a smile on his face. He was a respected and admired man in this town and a true advocate for the cereal city. My sympathies to Floyd's family.

October 19, 2010

MR. FLOYD WAS A GOOD COUNSELOR AT BATTLE CREEK CENTRAL . HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY. GOD BLESS THE FAMILY AND MY HE R.I.P. MATTIE

Steven Cady

October 19, 2010

I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Oglesby was a great influance on my life from WK to Central to KCC he was there to help and guide you and will be missed by all who knew him.

Gordon Jaeger

October 19, 2010

During my 25 years as a city manager (12 in Battle Creek) there was no Mayor that I enjoyed serving under more or had a higher respect for than Floyd. I considered him a good friend and know that he will be missed by many.

Jerry and Jan Petersen

October 19, 2010

Dear Gwen, Julie, Mary, Jill, and JoEllen,
We were so sorry to hear about Floyd. When we think of him, these are some of our thoughts.
Thank you Floyd.
Thank you for growing up into a good man, for serving our country, and for bringing Gwen to Battle Creek to grace it with her charms.
Thank you for serving in city government to improve Battle Creek for the people who call it home.
Thank you for improving the lives of young people through counseling and athletics.
Thank you for the wonderful family you gave the world to make it a better place and fill it with love.
Thank you for supporting Jerry and me over the years with your friendship, wit, and humor.
Thank you for the magic you worked to delight our grandchildren.
Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and the way you made everyone smile.
We love you,

Debbie Eason

October 19, 2010

So sorry for your loss. You will be in my prayers. Thank you for all that you did for me. RIP my friend.

Scott White

October 19, 2010

With deepest sympathy. Battle Creek has lost one of their greatest leaders, ever.

Holly Tappan Thomas

October 19, 2010

My throught and prayers are with you at this sad time. I have fond memories working with Floyd in the Counselors office at KCC. He was alot of fun to be around and a great man.

Henry (Hank) Finney

October 19, 2010

Dear Gwen and Family I was sorrowed to read about Ogies passing I served on the city comission with Him and belive a man like Him comes along once in a life time, I loved working with Him and allways considered Him one of My best friends.
I will keep all of You in My prayers.
Hank Finney

Robert Hartung

October 18, 2010

Gwen,Mary & Girls,Im so saddened by the passing of your father who I knew as a "GREAT"Man! May he Forever Rest in Peace& May God Bless and Keep ALL OF YOU ALSO Sincerely,Robert V.Hartung,Grand Rapids Michigan

Richard Brigle

October 18, 2010

Mr.Oglesby go back to 1971 while I was in high school at Hillsdale.God bliss you Mr.Oglesby and thank you all that you did for me.

October 18, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and i have very fond memories of him and the hole family from the yrs on Latta ST Mike and Denise Rust

Keith Schirmer

October 18, 2010

Floyd was from Iowa. He loved and served his country (B-24 tailgunner in World War II). He cherished family and life. He fought for rationality and fairness in government. After retirement, he perfected his fishing skills and won the coveted Gull Lake Trophy. A wonderful life!

Farewell, Buddy

Keith Schirmer

dorothy rugg-williams

October 18, 2010

on behalf of the entire rugg family our condolences to the family, my brother paul knew Mr oglesby, god bless you all! he will be greatly missed but not forgotton! always in our thoughts!

Alisha Johnson

October 18, 2010

To Gwen and family, I am so thankful to have known Floyd. he was funny, and I liked his funny sayings. ugga ugga boo ugga boo boo ugga, finally got it down. his little songs about the cow with 6 utters, and other little sayings. He will be greatly missed. Gwen, I am glad you are still with us. you are like a mom to me and I value your wisdom and hugs. I love you, as well as the rest of your Sunrise Family.

October 18, 2010

My first remembrance of Ogie was a knock on our front door--I opened it and a weird laugh and an UGLY masked scared the heck out of me!!!! Found out later that was Ogie's way of saying "Happy Halloween."

What a great guy and friend. It was always fun to be together. I am sure he will be missed by many.

Love and prayers from our house to yours. Paul and Dona Vogel

Robert Hess

October 18, 2010

As a mentor, a counselor, and life-long friend I cherished with ALL my heart, I will ALWAYS carry a part of him in MY very own heart. View the following link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asNRvaJpk-o
Floyd a tail-gunner in B-24's of the 8th Air Force in WW2, and my father a bombardier in B-17's (The "Flying Fortress") of the 15th Air Force at the same time, both had the SAME impact on my life's development and will be, forever, sadly missed. On behalf of BCCHS Class of 1971, my sympathy and condolences goes out to the entire Oglesby family - Robert Hess. Class President ('68-'69, '70-'71)

October 18, 2010

To the Oglesby family,

So many fond memories of such a great guy!

Sincerely,

Class of 1957
Battle Creek Central High School

October 18, 2010

We are very proud to say Ogie was a great friend and neighbor. We know the deep sorrow you're all feeling as we just lost Dad (Richard) 1 month ago. We will all be reunited again soon, until then, draw each other close and remember all the precious times spent together.

The Cox Family

Chris Lemke

October 18, 2010

Dear Oglesby family,

I was so sorry to hear the news of my Godfather's passing. Floyd was seriously the funniest man I ever met. I'll never forget his funny sayings (ones that aren't in the dictonary) and how he loved to be the prankster and the coin and card tricks I learned from him that I now use on my neices. I also learned how to pull my finger off my hand then re-attach it. It still blows people's minds when I show them now.

I do believe my Dad and Floyd are together right now having a good laugh and brainstorming on how to prank people up there.

Again, my sincere condolences. And I'm sure glad and so lucky to have known such a great man.

Love you and goodbye "Da Godfather"!

October 18, 2010

Went to high school with Floyd in Mason City Iowa. Our condolences Gwen.

Byron And Jana Hill((Mason City,IA)

Michelle Marz- Elliott

October 18, 2010

I will never forget dancing on Floyd's feet to the music of H.R. Puffinstuff, and dancing around downstairs to Oliver, the music from Oliver Twist. I won't ever forget the best footrubs, the many nights our families spent in front of the fireplace, or the silly pranks on the phone when he called our house. And, I will never forget how he ended our phone calls......... and what I say to him today..... bye, Uhgha-uhgha-boo, uhgha boo boo uhgha. Love and hugs to you all!

Neil Johnson

October 18, 2010

Aunt Gwen, Julie, Jo-Ellyn, Jill, Mary and a list of family and friends to extensive to recount,
Please accept our deepest condolences at the loss of this wonderful man. I know there is now an overwhelming silence with his absence, not only could Uncle Ogie light up the room with his smile he always brought a smile along for everyone else to share. There is no greater gift than the joy of laughter and he was the prankster of happiness extraordinaire. I believe if you all listen closely with your hearts you will hear the angel’s laughing right now. We love you all and we are thinking of you. Good-bye Uncle Floyd we will miss you so.
Bless You All,
Neil and Denise Johnson

Dan Salerno

October 18, 2010

I knew Floyd primarily as a KCC student back in the early 70's.
He was amazingly optimistic, upbeat and encouraging - always. I am quite sure he is looking from heaven on us now, with a huge smile on his face.

Elizabeth Neumeyer

October 18, 2010

Floyd was such a wonderful guy. He was one of the people who kept me in teaching when I was a young greenhorn. He was KCC's Dean of Students then and his optimism was always contagious. His smile was a welcome sight every day. I am so sorry that he is no longer with us. Your family will have many good memories and we will always see that smile.

Judy Kurylowicz

October 18, 2010

Mary Matt Tyler and Molly

im so sorry for your loss. It was truly a pleasure to know your Dad, the times i saw him he was always smiling. I will keep him and you all in my thoughts and prayers
Take Care
Judy Kurylowicz

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