Samuel E. Osborn

Samuel E. Osborn, 66, of Battle Creek died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, March 19, 2007, of natural causes. He was born in Battle Creek on December 23, 1940, the son of Clayton and Priscilla (Howes) Osborn. Sam met his wife, Cynda (Squires), at Howard's diner and married on July 3, 1969. They remained married until Cynda's death in July, 2005. Sam graduated from Battle Creek Central High School and began his career at his father's furniture store, "Clayton's Furniture", in 1952 at the age of 12. He then took ownership of the store in 1986, after the passing of his father. Sam owned the furniture store until he retired in 2000 at the age of 59. He was an active member of the Battle Creek Optimist Club since 1972 and the Harper Creek Optimist Club since 1979 and served as president in both clubs. He lived everyday of his life by "The Optimist Creed" and spent nearly every Thursday enjoying the company of other Optimist members at the weekly meetings. Sam was also a member of the South Haven Moose Lodge where he and close friends had great times. He also spent many summers volunteering and acting as Internal Security at the Balloon Festival. He was passionate about many things. In earlier years, he loved bowling, motorcycles, and summers at the cabin. He always loved photography, bargain shopping, and summers in South Haven. He was a collector of many, many things. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren, Blake, Evan, and Gracie. Sam had a deep mutual respect with his friends and every person he encountered. He would do anything for anyone and had great pride in his talent of being a Jack of all trades. He was intelligent, generous, and greatly admired. He also loved to make friends laugh by telling stories and pulling pranks. Any one that had the opportunity to know Sam is left with great memories of his entertaining ways. Sam is survived by his children, Tiffany Wood, Kelly (Joel) Burkle, William Osborn, and Robert Osborn; five grandchildren and one more expected in August; and special friend and companion, Nola Batch. Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton Osborn and Priscilla Howes; wife Cynda Osborn (Squires); and brother, Steven Osborn. Sam's family would like to welcome you to a celebration of his life that will be at the Robin's Nest this Friday, March 23, 2007 from 5:00 to 9:00. A tribute to Sam will be at 6:00, followed by a time to share. Please stop by at your convenience (casual please) and feel free to bring a memory (story, photo, etc.) to share at the celebration. In honor of Sam's sincere generosity and kindness, the family would like to ask that people do something nice fore someone else rather than send flowers or make donations. The family sincerely appreciates and is very thankful for all the support and thoughtfulness they have received. At the request of the family, cremation has taken place. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com