Mrs. Ardis Louise Fitt's Obituary
Mrs. Ardis Louise (Bishop) Fitt, age 79, passed away Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at Sparrow Hospice House in Lansing. She was born January 19, 1933 in North Muskegon to William and Mary (Hren) Bishop and lived most of her life in the area. Ardis graduated from North Muskegon High School in 1951 and received her bachelor of arts in education degree from Hope College in 1955. She married Donald Clifton Fitt on June 10, 1955 and he survives her. Ardis spent her career in education teaching at Kalamazoo Central High School and North Muskegon Public Schools and retired in 1979. Ardis also worked for the Muskegon County Library where she spent 7 years as the librarian for Walker Memorial Library in North Muskegon. In 1967, she and Don began collecting antique postcards, especially depicting the history of the Muskegon area. This evolved into a general interest of postcards which combined art and history. As a result in later years, she and Don became dealers, traveling to many states doing postcard shows. Ardis was a member of Laketon Bethel Reformed Church; the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority; and the North Muskegon Historical Committee. Along with her husband, Don, she is also survived by 2 children, Dan Fitt of North Muskegon; Kelly (Geoffrey) White of Grand Ledge, MI; 4 grandchildren, Courtney Joyce Fitt, Emily Renee Fitt, Clairesse Louise White, and Helena Jayne White; 1 sister-in-law, Dottie Bishop of Whitehall; 2 nephews, Bill (Kay) Bishop and Joe Bishop both of Whitehall. She was preceded in death by her parents and 1 brother, Richard “Dick” Bishop in 1986. In keeping with Ardis’ wish, a private family service was held. Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy are encouraged to consider a donation to the Poppen Residence of Harbor Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements handled by The Sytsema Chapel, 737 Apple Avenue, (231) 726-5210. Sign the guest book on-line at www.sytsemafh.com
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