Harold Elenbaas

Elenbaas, Harold J. Otsego, MI Harold James Elenbaas passed away November 16, 2020 at age 90. He was born in Lucas, Michigan, November 29, 1929. Harold was the beloved husband of the late Patricia for 68 years, loving father of Nancy (Pat) Malarney, Janet (Ramsey) Vincent, Mark (Sharon) Elenbaas, Sandy (Brian) James and Judy (Darryl) Paputa and the proud and loving grandfather of Jaclyn Spaulding, Amy Spaulding, Eric (Aly) Wallace, Greg (Walfre) Elenbaas, Barbara Elenbaas, Brian James, Tim (Lizzie) James, Tanner James, Bryce Paputa and Lindsey Paputa. He was the adoring great-grandfather of Rylee, Benjamin, Emily and Charlotte. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Joanie and step-brother, Ken. Harold was preceded in death by parents Richard and Ottile Elenbaas, step-mother Ann Bekken, brothers Marvin, Arthur, Clayton, Gordon, Wilbur and Raymond, sisters Edith and Dorothy and step siblings, Edward, Gertrude and Francis. Harold was a devoted family man and a dedicated member of the community. He began his career as a teacher of Agriculture and then became the Superintendent of Schools in Farwell and then in Otsego for 24 years. He was a member of the Otsego United Methodist Church where he was active on the finance committee, played organ and sang in the choir. He served in the Army where some friends convinced him to go to college at Michigan State, earning his Bachelors, Masters and EDS degrees. He was a true Michigan State Spartan Fan, enjoyed playing cards and was an avid golfer. Always a family man, he took care of his beloved wife who was ill for 15 years. There will be a funeral service for immediate family only. Burial will take place at Mountain Home Cemetery in Otsego. A celebration of life will be held at a later, safer date. In lieu of flowers contributions in memory of Harold may be made to the Otsego United Methodist Church or to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Messages of condolence may be posted at WinkelFuneralHome.com.