Nick Oosterbaan

Nick (Nicolaas) Oosterbaan, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on January 30, 2026. He was born on November 18, 1930, in Schiebroek, the Netherlands and was the firstborn child of Jan Ekkes and Maria Pieternella (de Jonge) Oosterbaan.

Nick immigrated to the United States in 1957, courageously embracing a new life while carrying with him the traditions of his Dutch heritage.

Nick was first married in 1958 to Jacomina Martha Haan, who preceded him in death on October 27, 1984. Together they had four children: John Richard (who died in infancy in 1960), David Mark (who died at age 17 in 1978), Marian Alice and Renee Elizabeth, who survive him.

In 1993, Nick met Aletha Renee Kelly, and they were married in 1994, adding her four adult children to his life.

Left to cherish his memory are, his wife Aletha Renee; his daughters, Marian (Mark) Zwart and Renee (Doug) Nibbelink; and his grandchildren Luke (Katie) Zwart, Jake (Mauna Dasari) Zwart, Ian Nibbelink, Alison Nibbelink. He is also survived by Aletha’s children, Holly (Doug) Hartz, John (Portia Fong) Kelly, Kristen (Craig) Fyfe, Kevin (Bobbie) Kelly; grandchildren Dustin Hartz, Kaitlin (Luke) McDaniel, Rachel Kelly, Sarah (Ryan) Johnson, Cyndi (Conor) Williams, Brett Fyfe, Joe (Haley) Kelly, Amanda Kelly, Alison Kelly, Kristen Kelly, Ben (Jennie) Kelly, James Kelly; and many great-grandchildren who lovingly called him “Opa”.

Nick is also survived by his loving brother, Jan (Liz) Oosterbaan of the Netherlands, the last of his five siblings, and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and special friends.

Nick enriched his final years in Ludington with weekly walks in the state park, playing chess at the library, gardening in the summer, and spending time with his family. Throughout his life, Nick was known for his kindness, dependability, and sense of adventure. His steady presence and quiet strength was deeply appreciated by his family, especially during difficult times. His lifelong faith in God gave him great comfort, especially during his final days. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his loved ones and friends.

People may pay their respects to Nick’s family at the funeral home Friday, February 6th 1:00pm-3:00pm. A committal service for the family will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Nick’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family. Those who wish may make contributions to Elara Care Hospice.

The Oosterbaan family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 120 South Woodhams, Plainwell, MI 49080 (269) 685-5881.