Theodore "Ted" J. Rycenga's Obituary
Theodore “Ted” J. Rycenga, age 83, of Spring Lake passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2009, at Heartwood Lodge. Ted was born August 12, 1925 to Thomas and Laura (Bohlender) Rycenga Sr. in Detroit. On August 22, 1947 he married Betty Visscher, who survives him. He is also survived by his daughter Laura (Rich) Draeger and son Ted J. (Carole) Rycenga of Cadillac. Also cherishing wonderful memories are his six grandchildren: Melissa (Jim) Webb, Gretchen (Matthew) Guernsey, Joshua Ryan Eling, Meghan (Ryan) Howell, Lindsey (Peter) Donovan, and Matthew (Anne) Rycenga; five great-grandchildren: Jackson and Savanna Webb, Madeleine and Grayson Guernsey, and Charles Howell. Ted is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Thomas Jr. and Jennette Rycenga.
An outstanding ‘All State’ high school athlete at Grand Haven High School, he enlisted in the Marines in 1943 upon graduation. Ted served with the 1st Marines in the South Pacific and China during WWII. After graduating from Hope College in 1951, Ted began his 34-year career as an educator with Spring Lake Public Schools. Starting as a teacher at Holmes Elementary, he also served as principal of Jeffers Elementary, District Curriculum Director, and from 1972 thru 1984 as Superintendent of Schools. Ted was most appreciative of the community support for the establishment of the Laker Foundation during his tenure, now known as the Spring Lake Schools Foundation.
A celebration of Ted’s life is planned for a later date. Memorial contributions to the Spring Lake Schools Foundation are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.vbkfuneralhome.com.
The family is being served by VanZantwick Bartels Kammeraad Funeral Home of Spring Lake.
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