Book of Memories for Martin Ozinga, Jr.

Condolence From

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 13:33:37 EDT

We will always thankful for Uncle Marty. His witness and legacy will live on thru all of us who knew & loved him.

Condolence From Rick Selk

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:46:17 EDT

Marty, Just wanted to send our condolences. By reading some of these stories, it is obvious your dad was a great man. Our prayers are with you and your family. Rick Selk-Youth For Christ

Condolence From Larry Gerig

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 15:37:52 EDT

My deepest sympathy to all of the Ozinga Family. Marty was a most sincere Christian man and I am sure he will be missed deeply. Larry Gerig

Condolence From Masood Qazi MD/Leann Sala

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:09:09 EDT

We are so sorry to hear about Martin. He was a wonderful patient. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Condolence From Kathleen McGowan Mahoney

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 21:44:07 EDT

My deepest sympathy to the Ozinga family. I am so sad to hear that Mr. O has passed away. I would have wanted to share my condolences in person, but I was out of town. When I heard the news, my first thought was that his tremendous faith has prepared him for this experience and he is with his beloved wife Janet again. Mr. O was one of a kind. I worked at Evergreen Bank from 1986 - 1998. He was a great role model and not only influenced my career, but my life. His faith and belief taught me that success was not only measured by the size of your house or the size of your bank account. Success was so much more. I learned about "service to mankind" and how to always "do the right thing". I was so blessed to be part of the Evergreen family as I became a better person. It wasn't just a job, it was a way of life. Mr. O will be missed on this earth, but there is comfort in knowing that his spirit and goodness lives on in all who knew him. Again, my deepest sympathy.

Condolence From Ann Lousin

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 17:19:19 EDT

Dear family of Marty Ozinga: Although the death notice doesn't mention it, Marty rendered a great service to the people of Illinois as a member of The Sixth Illinois Constitutional Convention in 1969-70. I knew him because I was on the research staff. What a wonderful human being, a true gentleman! I saw him at several of the reunions of our con con family over the years. Please, PLEASE keep in touch with us.

Condolence From John Ekberg

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 07:40:47 EDT

The Ekberg family from Rockford IL sends heartfelt condolence on the home-going of Martin Jr. It is evident that Martin loved the Lord and carried that servant's heart into his business and charitable endeavors. Isaiah 40:31 "..but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.."

Condolence From john f weinberger jr ( ace)

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:00:25 EDT

I WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO MARTIN III , KENNETH, BEVERLY ON THE PASSING OF THEIR FATHER.

Condolence From OFELIA RAMIREZ

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 01:43:48 EDT

My heartfelt condolence to the Ozinga family, I'm praying for you during this time of sadness......" He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters." PS23:2

Condolence From Horace D. Flournoy III

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:53:01 EDT

Mr.Ozinga was one of the FEW men that I admired and respected. I met him when I worked for the American Cancer Society and we shared our common Marine Corps backgrounds. To the Ozinga Family, please except the Flournoy Family heartfelt condolences and if I can do anything, in addition to praying for you, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Condolence From Rick Schicitano and Family

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:31:28 EDT

Our heartfelt sympathy to the Ozinga family. You are in our prayers. Semper Fi, brother. Rest in Peace.

Condolence From Steven Vryhof

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:27:04 EDT

I'll join a host of others to stand and salute this remarkable man. A favorite memory is from about seven years ago. I was spending time caring for my father-in-law John Groot, who had suffered a stroke and was declining. Marty wanted to see him. So I arranged an afternoon get-together. John had limited conversation ability, but Marty kept the afternoon going as the two reminisced about Roseland and Chicago Christian and the Marines and the endeavors they shared over the years. Marty didn't have to do that. But that was the kind of guy he was. Gayle and I send our sincere sympathy to the family. "...life is not ended, but changed..." (Book of Common Prayer)

Condolence From Sarah Jane Moore

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:04:53 EDT

My sincere sympathy to the Ozinga family, I first met Marty through his involvement with Goodcity, formerly MidAmerica Leadership Foundation founded by Bud Ipema. Marty would call looking for Bud and introduce himself as “This is Marty Ozinga, Jr., the old man.” This was about 12 years ago and he didn’t seem old at all as he was so engaging and interested in everything and everyone. Your family and the city of Chicago have seen the passing of and extraordinary man. He was a true follower of Jesus Christ and set an example all of us would do well to emulate.

Condolence From John Drenth

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:54:38 EDT

To the man I have always looked up to, I was blessed to have known him. He believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. I thank him for the success I have had in my life. My condolences to his entire family. Sincerely, John Drenth, Jr.

Photo shared: Uncle Marty's Thompson runabout

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:08:11 EDT

We actually went on a roadtriip qwest in search of this boat about ten years ago! I don't think I've ever been as impressed with any machine as with Uncle Marty's Thompson and it's 35 horse "electric start" (wow!) Johnson Seahorse outboard. Good times!

Photo shared: Young, but still distinguished

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:02:42 EDT

I'm guessing this was from his promotion ceremony-so young but so serious!

Story shared: An Extraordinary, Ordinary Man

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 18:31:47 EDT

Mr. O, as most of us employees called him, was both extraordinary and ordinary in the same breath. I worked for Evergreen Bank for over 17 years. In my early years there, I had a small, second floor apartment in Evergreen Park. On several occasions, I would run into Mr. O while out walking the neighborhood, and invite him to dinner at my place. He would share a humble meal with me, and a couple of other friends who worked at the bank. I always felt that I was entertaining an angel.. that such a extraordinary man as he was, would share an ordinary dinner with a few of us in my humble apartment. One year, he invited us to fly with him to Wisconsin on a bank holiday to go snowmobiling for the day. We had a great time. On the return flight, he made the plane take a little dip as we were flying. He stated simply, "State Line." I joyfully remember him, and the years we had together with the "best bank family". Thanks for the memories Mr. O! My sincere condolences to the entire Ozinga family, and to Ken especially.

Condolence From Jerry Dykstra

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:48:43 EDT

I worked for the First National Bank of Evergreen Park when Mr. Ozinga was the bank president. He was a great role model for all Christian business men. I was impressed with how he showed his faith through both his words and his actions. He will be missed.

Condolence From Luke and Pauline Schaap

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:13:33 EDT

Dear Ozinga Family: We express our sincere sympathy to you on the passing of Martin Ozinga, a true Christian leader who showed his committment to Jesus in his life. We especially appreciate his involvement with Trinity Christian College over the years. Luke and Pauline Schaap

Story shared: "Jer, find a picture that'll make 'em smile"

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 11:56:19 EDT

Uncle Marty was usually the photographer at family gatherings and fishing trips, making it difficult to find candid shots of him. When I chauffeured him to a funeral a few years back, he looked over the photo collage in the Chapel and said, "Jer, when it's my time find a picture of me that'll make 'em smile." I replied, "deal" and he gave me one his famous handshakes. His smile in this shot is the expression I'll always recall when I think of him. I dare say there was something unique about the times we shared, both when I was a little kid (he took me to my first Blackhawks game, and now I do the Hawks artwork!) or as adults when we'd sit in his basement, peruse ancient photos, do 3-D slideshows wearing ridiculous glasses and remember old times. As positive a person as he was, he was also refreshingly honest with me about his regrets and mistakes, something you don't often expect from such an "important" man. He really was important to me. There is not a chapter in my life that Uncle Marty doesn't somehow factor in. I'll miss you, my "Uncle", I'll miss you, my friend.

Condolence From Jim Randolph

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 10:28:25 EDT

Dear Ozinga Family, I have not had the privelege of meeting Marty Jr., but I am not suprised to read about his faith in God and his contributions to his community. I have been blessed to see a legacy passed through the family, to those I do know, Marty III and Justin, that gives God the glory for their accomplishments and blessings. Please know of our prayers for you at this very special time of wonderful memories, and mourning as you will miss him. In Christ, Jim Randolph PBI Redi-Mix Concrete, Pana/Taylorville IRMCA Governmental Activities

Photo shared: "Find a picture that'll make 'em smile"

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 10:11:58 EDT

Uncle Marty was usually the photgrapher at the family gatherings and fishing trips, so candid photos of him are pretty rare. The expression on his face in this shot is how I'll always picture him! The last time I chaufeured Uncle Marty to a funeral, he looked over a photo montage in the chapel and told me, "Jer, when it's my time, see if you can find a picture that'll make 'em smile". I hope this fits the bill.

Story shared: Compassionate Bank President

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 22:13:18 EDT

Marty Ozinga was the president of Evergreen bank in 1967 when my mom was working there as a teller. My father became ill and was diagnosed with lung cancer. My mom was at work when a family member came to give her this devastating news and Mr. Ozinga called her in his office so she would have a private place to hear this. He let her stay in office for a time and did his best to console her and then let her go home. The bank was always considerate of the time she needed off to be with my dad and after he passed away she was allowed to be off on Saturdays to be home with me since I was so young. My mom never forgot his kindness and stayed working there until she remarried in 1975.

Condolence From Jim Alderden

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 19:23:44 EDT

First of all, my sympathy to the Ozinga family. I look forward to joining with many at the celebratory memorial service on Friday morning. Remembering Marty “Hi, Marty!” That’s what you heard around the Bank and throughout the community. It was like he knew everyone. I and other former staff at The First National Bank of Evergreen Park heard his prayers at meetings. His message was consistent – that our service to God takes expression by serving our fellow men, women and children: the crown of His creation. I had the pleasure of doing some PR for the Bank. It fascinated me that someone could be on 30 or so Boards simultaneously. Marty was also active with the American Cancer Society long before Janet was diagnosed. He gave tirelessly back to the community and did not seek recognition for his charity. The good work of the Ozinga family for four generations has blessed our economy, raised up institutions like Trinity Christian College, Roseland Christian Ministries and so many more, and set a high standard for faith in action. Marty once asked, “Do you know the most successful marketing campaign of Ozinga Ready Mix? It’s free sand, river sand, the kind that dads love to put in their kids’ sandboxes. Sometimes we would put out two dump truck loads on a Saturday at the Evergreen yard.” Whether it was free sand or ambitious campaigns for hospitals, colleges or communities, Marty Ozinga always found ways to make the world a better place.

Condolence From Peter & Eleanor Boelens

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:59:52 EDT

Dear Marty And Ruth - We extend our sincere condolences to the both of you with the loss of your father. In your grief there are also blessings to consider. God has set the boundary lines of your life in pleasant places and given you a delightful inheritance through your parents who were also responsible for showing you the way of life. Because of this, we are filled with His joy even in times of sadness. (Ps.16) Peter and Eleanor Boelens

Condolence From Mr.& Mrs Denny Oedewaldt

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:25:52 EDT

We would like to send our condolences to the Ozinga family on the passing of Marty Ozinga Jr. We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Denny & Lisa Oedewaldt Prairie Material Peoria, IL

Condolence From Noreen Becker nee Johnson

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:12:10 EDT

I was a neighbor of the De Maa family, for many years on Monitor Ave, in fact Janet baby sat me on many occasions along with her sisters. I did attend the wedding of Janet and Martin way back when... It was my first wedding as an observer.. Many years have gone by and I always looked for news about the Ozinga/De Maa family. I am sure the passing of Martin is very sad for the family, he was a patriotic & religious man. I am now 75 years old, and reminisce every day over the great past I had as a child growing up in a wonderful world of caring people. Hold on to your memories, and let them guide you during this time of sadness. May God Bless all of you.

Condolence From Adrienne Urbanski

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 10:52:02 EDT

My deepest sympathy and prayers to the Ozinga family during this difficult time. My Savior has called me home, do not be sad that I must go. for all I did and for all that I was is because I loved Him so. My Savior has called me to come to Him in Heaven above I did not hesitate to go - I must leave behind the ones I love but do not weep for me or mourn the fact that I am gone. Just think of me as being home, home where I belong But I rejoiced when I heard His voice and His garment I could touch Don't say "How sad that he is gone," or cry or mourn for me. Just picture me with a smiling face, seated at Jesus' knee. If any cross words or deed between us ever passed Be assured they were forgotten as soon as they were past. I have no regrets or I should have dones to follow me when I left There's no reason for I wish I hads. I want no one to grieve. My Savior has called me home and I did not stop or hesitate Remember where I am and that I will wait for you to join me some day In Christian Love, Adrienne

Condolence From Bill and Bonnie Bracy

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 10:31:00 EDT

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Ozinga family in this time of mourning.

Photo shared: Ozinga,Martin.jpg

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:26:18 EDT

Condolence From Barb Chlipala

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:25:12 EDT

Thank you for allowing us the Honor of taking care of your Father. What a great man he was! He will be missed by many.