Howard L Oesterling

Howard L. Oesterling, 85, of Clinton, Mich., passed away unexpectedly on Sunday morning, Oct. 4, 2026, in Driftwood, Pa. He was born July 6, 1941, in Butler, Pa., to Earl Oesterling Jr. and Sara (Heasley) Oesterling.

On Dec. 26, 1964, he married Betty Oesterling, she survives. Howard and Betty shared more than 61 years of marriage and had a wonderful life together. In addition to his wife, Betty, he is survived by two daughters, Kimberly of San Diego, Calif., and Tara of Manitou Beach, Mich. Also surviving are two granddaughters, Ruth and Charlie Fults; one brother, Dick (Bernie) Oesterling; and one sister, Becky (Jim) Kerns.

Howard graduated from Olney High School in Ohio and continued his education at Adrian College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. He went on to further his education at Eastern Michigan University, earning a master’s and a specialist degree.

While attending college, Howard was an accomplished and dedicated athlete participating in football, cross country, basketball, wrestling and track. He was known for his determination and twice ran from Adrian to Toledo, 20 years apart, slowing up by only 15 minutes. He remained an avid exercise enthusiast, continuing his physical workouts throughout his life.

He devoted his entire professional life to education, both as a teacher and an administrator. He taught history and biology at Adrian High School and later served as a teacher/principal at Maurice Spear Campus. He then moved to Clinton where he was a high school principal for 13 years. From there, he became superintendent of Whitmore Lake schools, a position he held before retiring. Howard truly loved education and took great pride in students, teachers and communities throughout his career.

Retirement had been great for Howard. Besides plenty of hunting and trips to the mountains, he became interested in filming wildlife. He filmed and produced over 400 wildlife, hunting and traveling videos. He and his wife, Betty, traveled in all 50 states. Visiting national parks was one of his interests, and together he and Betty visited 30 national parks. He made a DVD of each park.

Howard enjoyed writing poetry while he sat in his hunting blind waiting for deer to appear. He wrote a poem each year for 50 years spreading his Christmas Message. He was also known for writing retirement poems for those he knew well.

He and his family have enjoyed a lot of time at their mountain retreat over the years. His remains will be placed there near his most loyal dog, Rusty.

Howard will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, educator who cared deeply about his work, accomplished athlete, and a man who remained active and engaged throughout his life. His determination, energy and commitment to others will be fondly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Howard Oesterling Scholarship Fund. Information to be provided at the memorial service.

Memorial services will be Sunday, Oct. 18, at Clinton High School, 340 E. Michigan Ave., Clinton, MI 49236, in the auditorium. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the service to follow from 1-2 p.m. Food will be provided following the service until 3 p.m.