Alyce L. Spayde

Alyce L. Spayde, age 100, of Kalamazoo (formerly of Gobles and Bloomingdale), passed away Thurs., May 3, 2007, at Bickford Cottage in Portage. She was born Feb. 12, 1907 in Bangor, MI, the daughter of Margaret and Clarence Thomas. Alyce graduated from Western Michigan University, known then as Western Normal, and was an elementary grades teacher for many years in the Gobles, Bloomingdale and Centreville school systems. Alyce was preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband of 48 years, Marvin, in 1975. Also, Alyce was preceded in death by a sister, Nancy Thomas, as well as two brothers, Charles "Chuck" and Hugh Thomas. Alyce was known by many whom would recall her at Marvin's side assisting in their family drug stores in both Bloomingdale and Gobles. In addition, generations of students will fondly remember her in the classroom as an outstanding, dedicated and loving teacher. Alyce was a member of the Michigan Retired Teachers' Association. For many years, Alyce enjoyed propagating and growing violets in her home. She is survived by her loving family, daughter, Suzanne (Jack) Smith of Kalamazoo, and son, Thomas W. (Marlene) Spayde of Fernandina Beach, FL. In addition, Alyce is survived by six grandchildren, Laurie (Ken) Byrns of Fernandina Beach, FL; Linda (Andy) Blodgett of San Luis Obispo, CA; Katrina (Jim) VanHoose of Battle Creek, MI; Elizabeth (Gary) Formet of Lexington Park, MD; Gretchen (Tim) Lyle of Kalamazoo; Nicole Smith and her fiance Eric Whitner, both of Boston, MA; as well as eight great grandchildren and three step great grandchildren. The family wishes to express a sincere thank you to Ruth Dykstra who has been a stedfast friend and neighbor of Alyce for many years. Friends may meet the family 3-7 PM Sunday at the GOBLES CHAPEL, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, where funeral services will be held Monday at 2 PM with Pastor James Collison officiating. In accordance with her wishes, cremation will take place following the service. A private family inurnment will be held in Spring Grove Cemetery, Bloomingdale. Memorials may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.

Alyce L. Spayde

February 12, 1907 - May 3, 2007