LAKE ODESSA, MI — The Lake Odessa community is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of Dylan Kemp, a devoted husband, loving father of two, and cherished friend, who died earlier this week in a construction accident. He was a proud Lakewood High School graduate and lifelong resident of Lake Odessa.
Dylan is being remembered for his kind heart, spirited sense of humor, and deep commitment to his family and community. He is survived by his wife, Alyssa Kemp, and their two young children, who are now surrounded by the prayers and support of a heartbroken town. He also leaves behind extended family members including Chari, Kirt, Amanda, and Hunter, all mourning an unimaginable loss.
Born in Detroit, Dylan was raised in Lake Odessa and attended Lakewood High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a strong work ethic that would define his career. He worked locally in lawn care and construction — fields where his dedication and reliability earned him the respect of colleagues and neighbors alike.
Tributes to Dylan have flooded social media in recent days, painting a picture of a man who was generous with his time, always ready with a joke, and unfailingly devoted to his wife and children.
“This loss is devastating,” one friend shared. “Dylan had a wild, kind spirit and could lift anyone’s mood. He was the type of person who made you feel like family — whether you knew him for a day or a decade.”
Dylan was also a beloved figure in Lake Odessa’s softball community, where he played with passion and camaraderie. In his memory, fellow athletes are organizing a tribute that will include custom jerseys bearing the number 24, the number Dylan proudly wore. The tribute is expected to serve as a lasting reminder of his presence both on the field and in the lives of those around him.
“This isn’t the kind of story we ever expected to share,” said one family friend. “Dylan was building a future, side by side with Alyssa. Their love was strong, their family growing. It’s heartbreaking.”
As the community grapples with the loss, many are turning to faith for comfort. “God’s plan isn’t always easy to understand,” another mourner shared. “But His love is unwavering. We know Dylan is resting in peace, and we’re praying hard for Alyssa and those sweet kids.”
Dylan Kemp’s legacy will live on in the love he gave so freely, the joy he brought to every room, and the strength he showed as a husband, father, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed — but never forgotten — in the community he called home.