Michael "Mike" Kemper

Mike Kemper, 65, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Miami Valley Hospital. He was born on December 31, 1960, to Jerome (deceased) and Bernadetta Kemper (Rutschilling) of Osgood.

Mike is survived by his mother, Bernadetta Kemper of Osgood, and his six brothers and two sisters: John and Michelle Kemper of Scott, AR; Dave and Bonnie Kemper of Shelton, WA; Nick and Tami Kemper of Yorkshire; Jane and Nick Schlater of North Star; Neal Kemper of Versailles; Jerry and Naomi Kemper of Osgood; Robert (Bert) and Jackie Kemper of Osgood; and Ann and Brad Yerick of Versailles. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, his aunts and uncles: Joe Kemper; Leroy and Doris Rutschilling; Wilber “Bill” Rutschilling; Rosanne Schoen (his godmother); and Connie Fullenkamp.

In addition to his father, Mike was preceded in death by his niece, Brandie Bernosky; his great-niece, Irene Schlater; and his great-nephew, Gabriel Kemper. He was also preceded in death by his aunts and uncles: Werner and Viola Kemper; Linus and Georgia Kemper; Rita and William Baltes; Wilbert Kemper; Shirley Kemper; Norma and Roman Huelskamp; Esther and Norbert Puthoff; Elmer and Doris Rutschilling; Gilbert Rutschilling; Aloys Fullenkamp; and Robert Schoen.

Mike grew into a man who never knew a stranger, always ready to strike up a conversation and whose easy smile made others feel instantly at ease. A proud 1979 graduate of Marion Local High School, Mike carried his Flyer spirit throughout his life. He took great pride in his award-winning days in cross country and could often be found attending local sporting events.

Mike loved bowling league nights with his brothers, brother-in-law, and nephews, and found happiness playing tennis, pool, riding his bike, snow skiing, or simply spending time with family and friends. He also enjoyed reading, watching a good movie, and doing puzzles—a passion he shared with his mom, often placing the final piece by her side. Mike also took it upon himself to be the family photographer, capturing special moments and creating an annual family calendar so those memories could be relived throughout the year.

A lifelong member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Mike lived his faith through service, spending countless hours helping family and friends. Whether someone needed a hand with a project or simply asked for help, Mike would drop everything to be there. There were few things Mike couldn’t fix, and he was always the first to lend a hand to figure something out.

A graduate of The Ohio State University, Mike became a talented landscaper and owner of his own business, Kemper Landscaping. He shared not only his skill but his love of work, especially with his brother and the nieces and nephews who learned by his side. He expected their best and taught them the value of hard work in earning a living.

Mike especially looked forward to summertime, when he could spend his love of the outdoors tending to his garden. His garden always produced more than he could ever use, and it made him happy to share what he grew with others.

An avid blood donor, Mike’s generous spirit continues even now. In his final act of generosity, his legacy lives on through the recipients of his donated organs, tissue, and blood—gifts that will bring hope and life to others.

Mike will be deeply missed. He lived with an open heart and leaves the world better and more beautiful because of it. Mike’s life was a gift to those who knew him, and his legacy of kindness, generosity, and strength will never be forgotten. May his memory continue to inspire kindness in all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 AM on Monday, March 9, 2026 at Saint Nicholas Catholic Church, Osgood. Burial will follow at St. Martin’s Catholic Cemetery in Osgood. Family and friends may visit from 1 to 5 PM on Sunday, March 8, 2026 and from 9 to 10 AM on Monday, March 9 at Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Minster. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Osgood Life Squad and the Osgood Fire Department. Private condolences may be left at www.hogenkampfh.com