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Oscar C. Hahn

About

Michigan State University

FUNERAL HOME

Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Directors - Midland Chapel

1200 W. Wheeler St

Midland, Michigan

Oscar Hahn Obituary

Oscar C. Hahn, 78, of Midland, died late Saturday evening, Jan. 23, 2016, at Woodland Hospice in Mount Pleasant. He was born Dec. 2, 1937 in Saginaw, son of the late Oscar H. and Ruth I. (Hoffman) Hahn. Oscar attended Midland schools, graduating from Midland High School in 1957. He was an outstanding athlete at Midland High School, where he competed in football and track. Oscar received all-conference recognition during his Junior and Senior seasons, and was an all-state running back in 1956. He was the shotput champion in 1957 at the MHSAA State Track and Field Meet.

Oscar was a high school football and golf coach at Midland High, and earned great respect as a builder of men. He went on to earn three varsity letters at Michigan State University as a linebacker and guard. He played both ways and was the defensive captain at MSU. He also earned the right to play in the Copper Bowl, then an All-Star game for college standouts.

Oscar served as a Grad-Assistant coach at MSU. He coached two Michigan high schools before returning to Midland as the line coach. He assisted Bob Stoppert on several league championship teams as well as the 1968 Mythical State Champions, but truly made his mark by introducing his players to the working world, giving them summer jobs in his construction business. Oscar owned Homes by Hahn and started the Building Trades program at Midland High School.

Oscar was married to the former Judith Burmeister, which ended in divorce. He then married Arlene Ryskamp on Aug. 1, 1968 in Warren. She preceded him in death March 16, 1998. He was a member of the MSU Varsity Club, the Home Builders Association, the Midland Elks Lodge #1610, B.P.O.E., and the Midland Country Club where he enjoyed golfing. Oscar also enjoyed deer hunting, fishing on his Canada trips, pontoon rides at Jeff's lake house on Wixom Lake, his Florida house, motorcycle trips, and he and Arlene enjoyed their house in Arizona.

Oscar is survived by one son, Jeff Hahn (girl friend-Lisa Hoffert); three sisters, Dee (Gary) Jozwiak, Rosemary (Tom) Hauri and Karen (Chuck) Russell; two granddaughters, Victoria Rose Hahn and Allison Rose Hahn; and his special friend, Charlotte Webb.

Funeral services for Oscar will take place 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, from the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 West Wheeler Street, with Pastor John Pohanka officiating. Burial will be in Midland City Cemetery. Oscar's family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., and Friday at 10 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Oscar Hahn Open, a memorial golf tournament to be held in his honor. (Contributions can be made to Jeff Hahn.)

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Midland Daily News from Jan. 25 to Jan. 26, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Oscar Hahn

Sponsored by Brian Vidosh.

56 Entries

Robert Belk

March 5, 2016

I fondly remember Oscar when he was a freshman at MSU living in Shaw Hall, and I was a sophomore with the adjacent room. By chance I happened to Google his name this morning and learned of his passing. I remember the laughs and the smiles! Condolences to the family. Bob Belk, formerly of Alpena.

February 16, 2016

Condolences to the Hahn family, PTPantazopulos

"This photo will remain on my wall until my day comes"

Mark Vidosh

February 1, 2016

My dad and Oscar were as close as any two friends could ever be. Growing up I cherished our weekend visits with "Uncle Oscar" whether it was for a quick meal or some wonderful adventure that helped shape who I am today. Fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, motorcycling, 4 wheeling, you name it we did it with "Uncle Oscar". Many great and life long memories were made with this great man. My condolences to your family!

My fathers "Best Friend" - Big O.

Mark Vidosh

February 1, 2016

James Strieter

February 1, 2016

Such a good person

Lee Vidosh

February 1, 2016

Oscar you were a Great and caring man. Words are not enough to explain the way you made others around you feel. The memories of our Canadian fishing trips,snowmobiling in the U.P.,and losing the golf cart in the lake on 17....Uncle Oscar your memory shall have no end.Love & Respect always

Gloria Schettler

January 30, 2016

Oscar provided us with so many memories while married to my dear friend Arlene. My sons loved fishing with Uncle Oscar who visited us many, many times at our cabin in the woods in Wolverine. He will be joining my husband, Tom, in heaven and hopefully sharing old memories. So sorry for your loss.

January 30, 2016

O will be missed.
L. Bechtenheimer

Michael Skinner

January 30, 2016

I was fortunate to meet Oscar about 25 years ago mainly through playing golf. You get to know someone when you play enough golf with them and Oscar was one of a kind. He was fun, competitive, entertaining and always very kind. He is the type of person that makes an impact on people who meet him. I was saddened to hear of his passing because he is the type of person that makes this world a better place. RIP Oscar.

Connie Sasse-Smith

January 29, 2016

My Prayers had been with you along the way of your illness. God Bless you for all the wonderful work you done here on earth.

B W

January 29, 2016

May you receive love and comfort from family and friends during this difficult time, along with your cherished memories of your loved one.

Mike Rahme

January 29, 2016

Going to miss your contagious smile, confidence and all the repeated war stories on the golf course.RIP my friend.

frank fick

January 28, 2016

RIP Oscar

Frank Fick

January 28, 2016

Oscar had high standards,he expected the best from you.Glad he was a teacher as well as a boss.He would jump in and work right along side of you,very few bosses would do that.

Steve Martin

January 28, 2016

Jeff,
So sorry to hear about Oscar. We're missing
him down here in Florida.

John Basilico

January 28, 2016

I was lucky to marry into the Jozwiak family and become close to Oscar. I had never met a man with such presence. My favorite moments in life were listening to the stories shared by Oscar and Gary. It's very rare to meet a person with so much confidence and an incredible ability to make you feel special. We are all better to have known him. Rest in peace Great One!

Larry and Linda Roth

January 28, 2016

Sorry to hear of Oscar passing. He was a good man. He helped so many young men and women become good people. We enjoyed teaching with him.

Jerry and Judy Pekarek

January 27, 2016

Jerry and I first met Oscar while his Building Trades Class built a home next to us in Midland. Later when Arlene and he moved into that house we found what a great teacher and kind person he was to everyone. Oscar always had his students over to his home for food at Christmas. Oscar was always a positive influence in the lives of our two children both before and as they went though MHS. You touched the lives of many and will be missed.

George Gant

January 27, 2016

Oscar is in a better place now. He was a great neighbor and friend and always made you feel welcomed in his presence. His work ethics and interpersonal skills were key drivers in our relationship. Oscar made an impact on many lives. I will miss him.

Oscar and Charlotte out dancing in Feb 2013

AH Bradley

January 27, 2016

Dennis Nelson

January 27, 2016

A classmate, who thought you were the best of the best in 1957. You well be missed.

AH Bradley

January 27, 2016

I met Oscar at State Street School and played football with him on the State Street Toughies -- never knew him to be afraid of anything and my favorite story about Oscar was from Michigan State-- he was working out in the gym in the fall of his freshman year when a senior who was on the MSU football team asked his name and then commented that he'd never heard of Oscar whereupon Oscar set him straight by telling him " stick around and you will"-- always thought a lot of Oscar and while I admired his athletic accomplishments I have always thought his best accomplishments were all of the young men he helped as a teacher and as a role model -- a true gift of his heart to them and their future - Be Well wishes for my friend Oscar and his family

January 27, 2016

Oscar was a true friend will be missed. He touched the lives of more people than we can count. He was a great athlete but even a better person. You will be missed.
Proud to be a fellow Chemic, Tom Hursey

Dana Hahn

January 26, 2016

Oscar, you are a Man's Man, A Lady's Man, A Friend, A Mentor, Great Host, Wonderful Cook, and a great B.S.er. Living life to the fullest. Thank you, for being you. You will be deeply missed. Peace to You, Family & Friends. Thank you Charlotte for being his Special Friend. God Bless All.

Thomas Kish

January 26, 2016

Oscar, you were a great friend and neighbor. You'll be missed. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers though this difficult time. Rest in Peace.

John & Sharon Apple

January 26, 2016

My good friend and pal! You will be greatly missed! I'll always remember all the good times. The fly in fishing trips with our Dad's and our boys, the times we'd meet up in Fla when I'd be down there on one of my many motorcycle trips, your visits to my cottage, all the wonderful conversations will never be forgotten! You were one of the best pals I will ever have, rest in peace my friend!
John & Sharon Apple

Pat Farquharson

January 26, 2016

Mr. Hahn was my shop teacher in the mid 60's and the policy was if you goofed up, you got the paddle. Even though I thought I would escape it, the day came when it was my turn. I saw him 20 years later and we joked about it again. He was the kind of teacher we do not have today. Fair yet firm because he cared about all of us. The likes of Oscar Hahn will never be repeated in my opinion.

my son at Polka dance with Big O

Debbie Jozwiak

January 26, 2016

To my dearest Uncle, the biggest teddy bear I've ever known. You've touched my heart in so many wonderful ways over the years. Among many things, I've always appreciated your humor, loving support and positive outlook on life. I love and miss you already! Your niece, Debra Lynn

Dave Hand

January 26, 2016

I am pleased to have known Oscar as a friend and teammate (1957).It's sad to lose some one that was a part of so many great memories of MHS football.

Kristi Skym

January 26, 2016

To the Hahn Family,
I'm so sorry to hear that Oscar passed away. He will be missed. I remember him as a great person. Everyday I would go to his house and visit with him and Arlene and they would always treat me like one of their kids. I have great memories!! Just know that Heaven gained an awesome Angel, and you are no longer in pain. Love you BIG O.

EDWIN MUNGER

January 26, 2016

TO THE HAHN FAMILY MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU FOR YOUR LOSS OSCAR WAS MY FRIEND AND CLASSMATE OF 1957 HE IS NOW AT PEACE I LOVE YOU ALL ED.

Cris Weckesser

January 26, 2016

He did so much for so many...there is a reason we call him "The Great One" my condolences to all his family...RIP Oscar

Tim chritz Chritz

January 26, 2016

Back in 79 -I had the big O for building trades teacher -Learned a lot I remembered the big O was not too fond of me wearing my Dow high jersey on game days.

Michael Brown

January 26, 2016

I can't say enough good things about Oscar. A teacher, a mentor, and a friend. RIP Big O....

Tim Harrington

January 26, 2016

The Big O, you have been an inspiration to so many young people looking for direction wandering down the path of life. I was one of the fortunate ones lucky enough to cross paths with you. As a teacher, mentor, golf coach, part-time comedian and simply someone to look up to you impacted my life enormously and will always be grateful to have met you.
God asks no man whether he will accept life. That is not the choice. One must take it. The only choice is how. [Henry Beecher] Thankyou Oscar for living your life to inspire others.

Jim and Shirlee Hampton

January 26, 2016

We knew of Oscar before we enjoyed his friendship. It was 1958 when we sat near to his sister at a MSU football game. She was so proud - "That's my brother, he's my brother!" One terrific guy. Many memories (MSU alumni gatherings, golf outings, Rat Brother touch football, snow mobiling, BPOE, upgrading blocking dummies for Midland High football practice through Chemistry, etc)
Oscar was a special person!

Margaret Graves

January 26, 2016

The family of George Graves sends their condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Peter Jennings

January 26, 2016

The Big O was a legend in Midland and for all the right reasons. A big man, with bigger heart of gold and wonderful person. He made everyone around him feel better. I feel so fortunate to have had a chance to play golf with and be associated with this amazing person. My favorite Big O story is that my Dad was a lawyer in West Branch did a very small favor for Oscar. The next day there was a knock on the front door. Oscar had driven all the way from Midland to West Branch just to shake my Dad's hand and say "thank you" in person. That's the type of man he was. He will be forever missed but never forgotten. PMJ

Allan Payne

January 26, 2016

When I was a young teenager, Oscar was a monster on the MHS gridiron, along with guys like Howard Mudd, LeRoy Milner, Richie Waite, Jon Conklin, and Jeff Hartman. I loved watching him hit the line and bowl guys over. Never had him for a coach as he had not yet come to MHS in that capacity. But, he was one of those guys that every kid I knew looked up to. I offer my sympathy to all his family.

Shirley Bellas

January 25, 2016

Oh Oscar I was so sorry to have heard the sad news. I know you have been through a lot but the pain and suffering is over now. I was so happy to have met you through Bob, now you are up there with Bob and Jimmy. Bob always thought of you as the son he never had. I will miss your phone calls and visits, you were a true friend. Love you, Shirley

January 25, 2016

One of the bst teachers I had, he will forever leave an impression on me. Ben Vasicek

Jerry Kintner

January 25, 2016

A fine teacher with a great sense of humor. He taught me how to drive. Prayers for the family. Jerry Kintner-MHS Class of 1970.

chris wenglikowski

January 25, 2016

When I was in high school I took building trades 1,2,3.(80-82) and I learned so much from Oscar and had fun too. Rest in Peace Oscar.Thank You for so much....

MSU Golf

Robert Waite

January 25, 2016

Thanks BIG O for all the memories. Thanks for always treating me like I was more than I was and thanks for being you.

William Altimore

January 25, 2016

Oscar one of the finest coaches and man a guy could know. You were one of my coaching idols! Tell Bob & Bobbie I said hi. Rest in peace OC !

Mike Murphy

January 25, 2016

The Consummate Chemic, Coach, Competitor and Comedian. GOD just doesn't make em' like Oscar very often :-) He was an Inspiration to all of us Lucky enough to be Touched by his Life. RIP Coach...Your Legacy Lives On!!

David Sweet

January 25, 2016

A wonderful teacher, a wonderful man. Thank you, Oscar, for all you did for so many.

Dave Sweet - MHS 1970

john/shirley hoffmAn

January 25, 2016

My friend and my cousin. Will miss you. God bless all our prayers

Greg Dorrien

January 25, 2016

Thanks for caring about all the kids on the team coach.

Jacque Buetow

January 25, 2016

RIP Mr Hahn, Heaven can always use a handsome coach like you.

Patrick and Mary Herdell

January 25, 2016

May you rest in peace and know the glory of the lord.

A true gentleman and athete, my hero my friend.

January 25, 2016

You were my best friend throughout life since college days and I had the best !!
You helped me enormously always. A true friend to me and many.You will be missed. RIP in the lord. Patrick Herdell

Peter Aseritis

January 25, 2016

Dear Oscar, you were a great teacher and coach to me and many others in school, sports and life! May God bless you and provide love and support to your family. I am glad I still got to visit with you a few months ago, I will miss you.

Mary Smick Kressler

January 25, 2016

RIP Oscar. You have touched so many lives. Midland is a better place because of all your contributions. We will miss you my friend.

January 25, 2016

Oscar- a great guy with a wonderful sense of humor- Ron Cook and I were drivers Ed par tners in his class as sophomores. Later when I student taught a Midland High in 1984 I learned he was the most original person in the whole teachers lounge. The principal hated to answer one of his questions because she knew there was going to be a comical curve ball with it. He will be missed- deepest synpathy's- Jim Bark

Eric Ostergren

January 25, 2016

My Coach and Teacher, Oscar Hahn was one of the greatest men I have ever known. He inspired me to become the best I could be in football and that taught me a lot about life and how to fight through adversity. God bless Oscar and rest in peace.

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