SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report: March 8, 2001

Old Kent Financial Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as
specified in its charter)

Michigan
(State or other
jurisdiction of
incorporation)

0-14591
(Commission
File Number)

38-1986608
(IRS Employer
Identification no.)

111 Lyon Street, N.W.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
(Address of principal executive offices)

49503
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number,
including area code: (616) 771-5000

Item 5. Other Events.

On March 8, 2001, Old Kent Financial Corporation issued the press released attached as Exhibit 99.1 to this Form 8-K, which is here incorporated by reference.

Item 7. Financial Statements, Pro Forma Financial Information and Exhibits.

(c)	Exhibits:

	99.1	Press Release dated March 8, 2001

SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized .

Dated: March 9, 2001	OLD KENT FINANCIAL CORPORATION (Registrant)


	By: /s/ Albert T. Potas
	Albert T. Potas Senior Vice President

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit Number		Document

99.1		Press Release dated March 8, 2001

OLD KENT FINANCIAL CORP /MI/ 8-K