Ionia County MI Archives Obituaries.....Groendyk, Constance "Connie"  Louisa  September 2, 2025
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Patricia Currigan currigan1932@concast.net November 4, 2025, 11:29 am

Hasting's Banner - Sat. September 13, 2025

CONSTANCE LOUISA (DALTON)GROENDYK, affectionately known as Connie, entered into 
the presence of her Lord and Savior on September 2, 2025.

Born on February 11, 1943, Connie was beloved firstborn child of Willis & 
Barbara (Cotton) Dalton of Woodland,MI. She enjoyed  an idyllic childhood on the 
family farm, where she developed a lifelong love for animals, music, and the 
joys of country living. Connie shared her formative years with her sister & 
brother, surrounded by the rhythms of farm life & the support of a loving home.

Connie attended woodland School, just steps from her family's farm competing her 
education there from Kindergarten through high school. She was a proud member of 
the school's final graduating class in 1961.She continued her studies at 
Michigan State University and Western Michigan University, ultimately earning a 
bachelor's degree in Elementary Education & Music.

With a heart for teaching and a gift for music.,Connie began her professional 
life as a music teacher in Saranac & later as a second grade teacher for 
Jennison Public Schools. Her passion for education & nurturing young minds left 
a lasting impact on countless students.

Before settling down to raise her family, Connie explored the world-most notably 
enjoying a memorable three-week tour of Europe. She also cherished time spent 
traveling around the United States with her family in their motorhome.

A gifted pianist & organist, Connie faithfully played the organ every Sunday for 
over 25 years at Kilpatrick United Brethren Church. See also enjoyed playing for 
weddings & special events, including several at Charlton Park where she 
delighted guest by performing on rhe historic pump organ.

Connie was a devoted follower of Christ & found her greatest joy in her role as 
a mother & grandmother. She lovingly raised her daughters, Teresa & Melissa, 
instilling in them the values of faith, education, and a deep appreciation for 
rural life. She was known for her creativity & care-sewing handmade holiday 
dresses & costumes for her children. In her later years, she embraced the role 
of grandmother with pride & joy, treasuring time spent with her five 
grandchildren.

Connie had a generous spirit & a heart for giving. She supported several 
children's charities throughout her life, including Youth Haven Ranch, St.Jude 
Children's Research Hospital & Compassion International. She enjoyed gardening, 
shopping & watching Christian programming in her free time.

In her final days, Connie reflected on how fast time had passed- a reminder to 
all that time is a precious gift.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Teresa (Josh) Weller & Melissa (Doug) 
Hengesbach; her cherished grandchildren, Ethan, Emma, Elijah, Maddie & Drew; her 
siblings, Sharon (Paul) Halladay & Gary Dalton; and nieces,Kristen (Mark) 
Tonello, Kimberly (Rich) Giddings, & Karrie (Josh) Plowman, along with several 
great nieces & nephews & cousins.

Connie is reunited in Heaven with her parents, Willia & Barbara Dalton; her 
grandparents, & other dear relatives who went before her.

A visitation and funeral service was held on Saturday Sept.6, 2025, at 
Kilpatrick United Brethren Church, 10005 E. Barnum Rd. Woodland,MI. Connie was 
laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery with a luncheon that followed.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Green Acres 
of Ionia & Interim Healthcare Hospice for their dedicated care in Connie's final 
years and days.


Additional Comments:
Woodland Memorial Park Cem.
Woodland,Mich.

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