Cynthia B. Grootendorst

Cynthia B. Grootendorst, 77, of St. Joseph and St. Simons Island, GA passed away peacefully at home after a short but brave fight with cancer. Friends and family are welcome to celebrate her life from 4:00-7:00 PM on Friday, June 13, 2008 at her home, 465 Ridgeway in St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home or Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan. Friends wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Arrangement entrusted to Starks and Menchinger Family Funeral Home 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085 Cindy was born on December 23, 1930 to Matthew and Frances (Wilkenson) Burkholder in St. Joseph and lived her whole life on Ridgeway. She graduated from St. Joseph High School and attended Knox College and St. Mary’s College. On October 4, 1952, she married Frederic Grootendorst at the St. Joseph Congregational Church. She worked as a legal secretary for Killian & Spelman Law Firm and as a secretary with A.M. Groootendorst, Inc., the family business. Cindy was a wonderful wife, a great Mom, an animal lover, and a wonderful cook. Cindy and Fred enjoyed many years of sailing on “Cynthia”, their sailboat, with friends in the Boozing, Snoozing and Cruising Association. They participated in many Chicago – Mackinac Island races and will be remembered in this year’s Mac. She enjoyed bridge with the Ridgeway ladies and at the St. Joseph River Yacht Club. Cindy loved music and her player piano. Thank you to all of our wonderful neighbors, Hospice at Home, Comfort Keepers and a special thanks to Bethie-Poo. Cindy is survived by her husband Frederic of 55 years, two daughters Katherine Grootendorst of St. Simon’s Island, GA, Susan (David) Hertog of St. Paul, MN; a son Andrew (Betty) Grootendorst of Coloma, MI; five grandchildren Elizabeth, Hannah, Adeline Grootendorst; Alison & Cory Hertog and her loyal companion Brodie.