Leo D. Rosencrants' Obituary
Mr. Leo Deuel Rosencrants, age 69, passed away on Monday, October 24, 2022. He was born on August 8, 1953 to Herman and Leona (Taylor) in Vassar, MI. Leo attended Alma College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and later received his master’s degree in teaching from Central Michigan University. On August 4, 1979, Leo married the love of his life, Joann “Joni” Knippenberg and she preceded him in death on July 30, 2019. Leo’s biggest passion in life was football. He was All-State in high school and continued to play during his years at Alma College. After graduation he began coaching football and his career included Vasser High School, Coleman High School, and Fulton-Middleton High School. Leo and Joni moved to the West Michigan area where Leo started working in the Spring Lake School District while Joni worked at Fruitport Schools. Leo continued to teach and coach football at Spring Lake until he retired. In 2011 Leo was honored to be inducted in to MHSFCA Hall of Fame after 37 years devoted to coaching. He also had the privilege of being a part of the coaching staff for the 2012 MHSFCA East-West All-Star game. When not coaching, Leo enjoyed spending his time golfing, boating, and escaping the snow by wintering in Florida. He loved being a grandpa to his granddaughter, Olivia, and spent as much time as he could with her. Leo will be remembered by his children, Troy (Katie) Rosencrants and Emily Rosencrants; granddaughter, Olivia; sister, Jill (Frank) Szagesh; sisters-in-law, Audrey Barton and Shirley (Mike) McKee; family friend, Sarah Bulthuis; and many nieces and nephews. Along with his wife, Joni, Leo was also preceded in death by his sister, Alma (Nelson) Satchell; nephew, Todd Szagesh; and brother-in-law, Richard Barton. Visitation will be Sunday, October 30 from 1:00 – 5:00PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Following the visitation, a reception of appetizers and drinks will take place from 5:00 - 9:00PM at the Holiday Inn Grand Haven-Spring Lake, 940 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake, 49456. A private family burial will take place. Memorial contributions may be directed to Spring Lake Athletic Foundation in Leo’s memory. Please feel free to share a memory with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com.
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