Mark William Osborne

Mark William Osborne, age 74, of Byron, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026. A funeral service honoring Mark's life will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – Durand Chapel, 501 N. Saginaw Street, Durand, Michigan, with Reverend Dr. Tom Rundel officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until the time of the service.
Mark was born on April 14, 1951, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Dorland and Betty Osborne. He graduated from Byron High School and briefly attended Mott Community College before beginning a long and dedicated career as a repairman for a telephone company. Mark took great pride in his work and was a devoted member of the Union.
On April 4, 1981, Mark married the love of his life, Alice, at the Byron Methodist Church, beginning a marriage built on unwavering loyalty, deep love, and a devotion to family. Together, they shared a life grounded in commitment, respect, and countless memories spanning over four decades.
Mark lived an active and fulfilling life, finding great joy in staying busy and connected to those around him. He was proud to play on a men's softball team known throughout Shiawassee County as "Jack's Gang," where camaraderie and competition went hand in hand. An avid golfer, Mark treasured the time spent on the course with his best friend, Ron Merriow, and the many golf trips they enjoyed together over the years. Above all else, Mark cherished time with his children and grandchildren, finding particular happiness in cheering on his grandsons at their basketball games. In quieter moments, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, taking pride in mowing the lawn, and faithfully watching any and all sports on television. Mark enjoyed the simple pleasures in life and stuck to his routines, never missing his daily stop at the Durand McDonald's every morning for a cup of coffee.
Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Alice Osborne; his children, Marcie (Jeff) Campbell, Audra (Ryan) Hendershot, and Travis Osborne, his cherished grandchildren, Alison Campbell, Macie Campbell, Reyna Campbell, Jackson Hendershot, and Braxton Hendershot, his siblings, Mike (Mary) Osborne, Steve (Sue) Osborne, Becky Shettler, and Linda Davidson, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorland and Betty Osborne, and his daughter-in-law, Kristen Leigh Osborne.
A true man of his word, Mark believed in honesty and integrity, always saying what he meant and meaning what he said. He was genuine, loyal, and courageous, with a dry, understated sense of humor and a quiet, reserved nature. He was fun to be around and deeply respected by everyone who knew him. Mark faced a 15-year battle with multiple sclerosis with remarkable strength and grace, never once complaining, and serving as a strong example of perseverance and dignity. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mark's name to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Memories and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com.