Obituary of John B. Ouellette

John Bernard Ouellette was born on August 6, 1957, in Detroit, Michigan. He was one of nine children. Johnny O, as he became commonly known, graduated from Monroe Catholic Central High School in 1975.  He enlisted in the United States Army proudly and honorably serving as a member of the Military Police. During his time in the service, Johnny O learned to operate and became licensed to drive anything that had wheels, in his mind this ensured that he wouldn't have to march anywhere. 

Driven by his passion for community service and with a love for law enforcement, he pursued a career as a police officer. In the Summer of 1978, he completed the 360-hour Wayne County Sheriff’s Academy and in January of 1979 began as a Road Patrol Officer for the City of Monroe Police Department.  In 1987, he completed his associate degree in criminal justice from Monroe County Community College. He retired as a Corporal in 2008 from Monroe City Police Department. In 2010 he joined the Dundee Police Department finally retiring as a Sergeant in 2021. 

On October 31, 1998, John married the love of his life, the former Heather Ivey in Las Vegas, Nevada. He joked that he deliberately chose this day so he wouldn't forget their anniversary. He often stated in jest “marriage can be scary”, so it was fitting to be wed on Halloween. Johnny O’s humorous nature shone through for this special occasion, reminding everyone that laughter and love can go hand in hand. 

Johnny O’s love for fishing was evident as he enjoyed casting a line in the front yard of his own home in Detroit Beach. He was an avid sports enthusiast, with a special place in his heart for the Detroit Lions Football Team and Detroit Tigers Baseball Team. His favorite player, Miguel Cabrera, brought him countless moments of excitement.

In addition to his sports interests, Johnny O had a knack for luck and enjoyed participating in various contests, raffles, and lottery scratch-offs. His wins varied from the minor and mundane to an Acura TL, and even opportunities to win a billion dollars.

Johnny O’s playful spirit extended to his time spent with grandson: Liam, playing board games, and high stakes Uno championships. However, his cherished four-legged companion was Lola, his beloved Shih Tzu. John hand-fed her and meticulously organized the food on her plate, ensuring she had a delightful dining experience, all with her own special place on the couch. Chicken was the staple, which she had prepared every four days, for her meals throughout the week.

Johnny O had a passion for giving back to the community. He actively participated in events like "Shop with a Cop" and occasionally dedicated time to mentoring students at Lincoln Elementary School in Monroe during their lunch hour. Sitting down with the students, he listened attentively and offered guidance to encourage them to stay on a positive life path.

John “Johnny O” Ouellette, age 66, of Monroe passed away at his home at 4:08am on Wednesday; December 6, 2023, surrounded by loving family.  His passing was preceded by his parents: Robert Ouellette and Mary Lou (Wayne) McLaughlin; and four siblings: Daniel Gerhardi, Mary Ann Webber, Judith Smith, and Vincent Webber.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his wife: Heather; five children: John R. (Stephanie) Ouellette, Britany Caswell, Zack Jondro, Miles Ouellette, and Kelton Ouellette; a step son James Boudrie four grandchildren: Jayden, Jarret, Jezlyn, Liam, Oriyn, and Devin; and four siblings: Gloria Gerhardi, Cheryl Livermore, Andrew Ouellette, and Tug Kenneth Ouellette. 

Friends may gather on Sunday; December 10, 2023, from 2:00pm until 7:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 7:00pm at Merkle’s led by Chaplain Brad Luck of the Dundee Police Department. Cremation will follow through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan. 

Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com to leave words of inspiration and comfort or to share a photo.