Otis Whitford

Otis Raymond Whitford age 79, of Laingsburg, MI, passed away Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at Memorial Healthcare, Owosso, MI.

A Celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, January 20, 2019 from 2-5 P.M. at the UAW Local 1753, 3204 W. St. Joseph, Lansing, MI 48917.

Otis was born in Ashley, MI on November 24, 1939, the son of Lewis Oril and Alma B. (Cook) Whitford.  Otis graduated in 1958 from Haslett High School where he was also a Class A basketball player. He married Pauline Gans on October 24, 1970, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lansing.

Otis started working at Oldsmobile and then went on to work at Michigan School Service where he was employed for 17 years. Otis retired from General Motors after 38 years of service. He loved hunting, fishing, riding his Harley, and doing yard work in his underwear.  Otis was known for being very caring and giving, he planted a garden every year and gave all of his produce away to family and friends. He was an avid Michigan State Fan. He spent many years playing fast pitch softball and bowling. Family was very important to him. He spoiled his kids and grandkids and loved the time spent with them.

He is survived by his wife Pauline Whitford, sons: Chad and Heather Whitford, Matthew and Brittany Whitford, grandchildren: Joshua Dale, Alexsys Gabrielle, Faith Taylor, Riley Joan, Joshua Joel, Corbin Otis, and great granddaughter Olivia Maxine. He is also survived by his sister Erma and Gene, and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters: Maxine Evans and Betty Green.

Memorials may be made to United Way. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.