Cynthia Jane Mink's Obituary
Cynthia Jane “Cindy” Mink (Hartzler/Buikema), age 70, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 26th, 2021. She was born on October 10th, 1951 to Harold “Bud” and Rachel (Cox) Mink in Tipton, IN. Cindy was an intelligent and well-educated woman; she received her bachelor’s degree from Ball State University and continued to earn her master’s degree from Western Michigan University. Her education allowed her to fulfill her dream of inspiring and guiding young children as a teacher. Cindy dedicated most of her life to working as a kindergarten teacher for Coopersville Public Schools. She then moved to North Carolina to teach gifted students at Cumberland County Schools before retiring and moving back home to Michigan to be closer to her beloved grandchildren. She was an independent and persistent woman who always went above and beyond for her family and friends. Cindy knew what she liked and was not shy about vocalizing the way she wanted things. She was the epitome of a kindergarten teacher and enjoyed crafting, sewing, and decorating for every holiday. She always wanted to get things looking "just right". She also enjoyed "birding'', traveling, seeing animals in the wild (especially whales) and spending time with her two dogs Meika and Mei Ling. Cindy didn't love a variety of foods, but she sure enjoyed going out to various restaurants to eat. She also loved having a night on the town to catch a show at the theater. She had an endless love for games. "Let's play games all sorts" she would say. Above all things, she loved chumming with her friends and family, especially chumming with her grandchildren. This frequently included lots of treasures and treats which put a smile on everyone's face. Cindy’s feisty and fun loving spirit will be truly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her 3 loving daughters, Erika Hartzler (Joe Sherwood), Kylie (David) Symons and Chelsey Byrd; 5 grandchildren, Rachel, Mya, Jaxson, Penelope and Natalie; 2 brothers, Steve and Bob Mink. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Tom Mink; and sister-in-law, Kris Mink. A Celebration of Cindy’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, where all are welcome and encouraged to share a funny story. A visitation with the family will be held one-hour prior. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her honor can be made directly to Pound Buddies of Muskegon and/or the Wildlife Rehab Center in Grand Rapids. Share memories with the family at http://www.sytsemafh.com.
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