Gilbert Richard Olrich

Gilbert Richard Olrich, 87, of Ottawa Lake, MI, went home to be with our Lord peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Gilbert was born 8/3/1937, graduated from Blissfield High School in 1955 and married the love of his life, Joyce Ann Schmidt, October 3, 1959, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Maybee, Michigan.

He worked for General Motors Powertrain Plant  for 30 years, retiring in 1990. He also farmed with his father, Kenneth Olrich. During his time at the Powertrain Plant, he was a member of UAW Local 14 and served on the Recreation Committee and Park Board. Gil also worked for the Ottawa Lake Co-Op Elevator Board.

Gil was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Ottawa Lake, Michigan his entire life. He served on church council and the trust fund committee. He was also a deacon and an usher for many years. He was a member of Olivet Leisure League.

Sports played a large part of his life. He played softball for UAW Local 14 that went to the ASA National’s in York, PA. He enjoyed golfing with his fellow GM retirees, friends and family. He loved attending Whiteford High School sporting events and all of his children’s and grandchildren’s sports and activities. He was a huge Michigan Wolverine football fan.

He is survived by his children, Dean (Kim) OIrich, June (Dave) Kretz, Wanda (John) Castleman, and Pam (Mark) Sorensen; grandchildren, Neil, Dale, Fadia, Laura and Reese, 4 great-grandchildren, brother Gale (Gail) Olrich, and sister-in-law Linda Olrich. Gil was preceded in death by his loving wife of 44 years, Joyce, his parents, Kenneth and Ruth Olrich, brother Doug Olrich, sister Phyllis Henson.

Friends may call at the Reeb Funeral Home, 5712 N. Main St, Sylvania, OH, Sunday, June 29, from 2-6 pm. Gilbert’s life will be celebrated Monday, at 11 am at the Zion Lutheran Church, Ottawa Lake, MI. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Zion Lutheran Church in memory of Gilbert Olrich. Online condolences to reebfuneralhome.com

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