Rachel Ozanich Obituary

Rachel June Bierenga Ozanich, age 37, of Lawton, MI, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on June 5, 1988, in Kalamazoo, MI, Rachel was the beloved daughter of Richard and Laurie Bierenga. She grew up in Portage, graduating from Portage Central High School in 2007, and went on to earn her degree from Northern Michigan University in 2013.
On August 15, 2015, Rachel married the love of her life, AJ Ozanich, in Schoolcraft, MI. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. She worked at Bronson Hospital, where her dedication and compassion touched the lives of many.
Rachel was known for her creativity and kindness. She found joy in crafting and could often be found watching her favorite Hallmark movies, finding comfort and beauty in their stories. She lived in Portage and Lawton, where she continued to share her warmth and caring spirit with all who knew her.
She is survived by her devoted husband, AJ; her parents, Richard and Laurie Bierenga; her brothers, Jeff Bierenga and Steven Bierenga; her grandmother, Wilma Bierenga; her aunts, Vicky (John) Muncy and Diane Bierenga; uncles, Randy VerHage & family; nieces, Nautia Flaherty and Brooklyn Devoogd; nephew, Landon Devoogd; cousins, Buddy Owen, Kristie (family) Boskovich and Kelly (family) Terpstra; in-laws, Jennifer & Ron Ozanich; brothers-in-law, Ethan Ozanich and Dylan Ozanich; and sister-in-law, Kristen (David) Devoogd.
She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Roger VerHage and Bud Bierenga; grandmother, Nelda VerHage; and aunt, Pat Owen.
A memorial service to celebrate Rachel's life will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Schoolcraft United Methodist Church, 342 North Grand Street, Schoolcraft, MI 49087. A reception will follow.
Rachel's memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends. Her light, kindness, and love will continue to inspire all those whose lives she touched.