Edward Leonard Ozark

Edward L. Ozark passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, April 6, surrounded by his loving family — likely dreaming of a long-awaited Buffalo Bills Super Bowl victory.

Born in Buffalo, New York, to Edward and Rita Ozark, Ed carried his hometown pride with him wherever life took him. He graduated from Canisius High School and Canisius College, always a proud champion of his Jesuit education and the values it instilled in him.

Ed’s career began amid the hustle and bustle of New York City, where he not only found his professional footing but also met the love of his life, Donna. They married 49 years ago and eventually settled in Grand Haven, Michigan, where Ed worked at JSJ Corporation. Together, they raised three children — Jeff, Lindsey, and Cassie — all of whom inherited some combination of his wit, warmth, and passion for life.

One of Ed’s proudest legacies was helping bring competitive girls’ soccer to Grand Haven and West Michigan. Coach Ed was instrumental in founding and developing the Tri-City Strikers soccer club where he coached a number of league and tournament championship teams for over a decade.

In 2005, Ed and Donna retired to Silverthorne, Colorado, trading the shores of Lake Michigan for the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. He spent two joyful decades embracing all that Summit County had to offer — chasing bluebird ski days at Copper Mountain, enjoying a well-earned après-ski, and, most of all, finding his element at the bridge table. He earned Life Master status and built a tight-knit community of friends and fellow bridge enthusiasts.

Though retired from corporate life, Ed remained passionate about healthcare. He volunteered countless hours at the Summit County Community and Senior Center, helping seniors navigate the complexities of Medicare with patience, clarity, and compassion.

A seasoned traveler, Ed explored the world with Donna by his side, always returning home with a story, a few new jokes, and memories to last a lifetime. No matter the time zone, Sundays were sacred — reserved for cheering on his beloved Bills, a game-day ritual he rarely missed.

Ed will be remembered for his brilliant mind, quick wit, and uncanny ability to make people laugh — often when they needed it most. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving grandfather, and a true original.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; his children, Jeff (Cheryl), Lindsey (Jack), and Cassie (James); his adoring grandson, Hayden; and countless family members and friends who were lucky enough to share in his love and laughter.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you play a hand of bridge, root for the Bills, or make a donation to the Colorado School of Mines Ryan Sayers Memorial Scholarship or Lakewood Catholic Academy. Go Bills!