Edward Bryant

Edward Bryant, 85, passed away on September 19, 2017 at home with family at his side. His wish was that he would not have to go back to the hospital, so his family pulled together to grant that request. He was born November 18, 1931 to Louis and Edith (Schott) who predeceased him. After serving in the Air Force, he attended Olivet College graduating in 1955. During his 4 years at Olivet he earned 14 Varsity Letters in football, basketball, baseball, and golf. His senior year he was a player/coach on the baseball team. In 1976, he was inducted to the Olivet Hall of Fame. Upon graduation, he was hired at Southfield High School as a history teacher. He also started coaching football, basketball, and baseball. He later became the Athletic Director and retired in 1976.

On August 9, 1974, he married Janet and two families became one. In 1976, he moved to Elk Rapids and bought the Chain-O-Lakes Marina. While living in northern Michigan, he enjoyed golfing the many beautiful courses with his wife Janet and many friends. One of his favorite things about retirement was working at Elmbrook Golf Course and traveling to Florida to play golf.

He is survived by his wife Janet; 9 children Bonnie (Ron) Hamilton, Mike, Sally Backalukas, Jane Kinley, Lori (Jay) Merchant, Lynn, Jackie (Stan) Graf, Nancy Sullivan, and Doug. He is also survived by a sister Cora Oosterhof, 25 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Preceding him in death was his mother and father, son Charles, brother Robert, son-in-law Kevin Sullivan, and father-in-law Joe Guffin.

A Celebration of Life Service will take place at the Hacienda Restaurant in Elk Rapids on October 8, 2017 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift can be made to the Amyloidosis Research Fund (Mayo Clinic Department of Development, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905) in memory of Kevin Sullivan. Also, donations can be made to Heartland Hospice so they can continue to provide compassionate care to others as they did for Ed and his family.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to sign the guest book and share your thoughts and memories with the family.