Nancy Elaine Ditterich

Nancy E. Ditterich, age 85 of Grand Rapids passed away on Monday, April 25, 2016 under the loving care of her family and Emmanuel Hospice.

She was born the daughter of Orson & Freda (Seidelman) Slocum in Ionia, both of whom have preceded her in death.

Nancy is survived by her husband of 53 years, Jochen; daughter, Kirsten (Chris) Shilakes of Mill Valley, California; son, Kirk Ditterich of Lake Tahoe California; grandchildren, Isabelle and Jocelyn Shilakes both of Mill Valley, California, Ellie Ditterich of Lake Tahoe California and her sister Barbara Leaf-Weaks of Battle Creek.

In 1954, Nancy led bicycle trips throughout Europe for many years and worked in the summer months for the American Youth Hostels Association. She graduated from the University of Michigan with both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and was a music teacher for Grand Rapids Public Schools until her retirement in 1966. During her time at U of M, Nancy had the privilege to play under William D. Revelli. One of Nancy’s fondest memories was of the five and a half month, 8,000+ mile bike trip she and her husband completed together on a tandem bicycle. In the winter cross country skiing was her passion. Nancy was a member of the Rockford Symphonic Band and was a past President, Charter Member and Woman of the Year recipient for the American Business Woman’s Association – Rockford Chapter.

A memorial service for Nancy will be held at a later date. For those wanting to make a memorial donation in Nancy’s memory, the family suggests they be made to the Bostwick Lake Congregational Church Memorial Fund.