Ann Lou Olendorf (nee Christensen), 72, of Saugatuck Township, died Nov. 20, 2016, in Grand Rapids, following a hemorrhagic stroke.
Mrs. Olendorf was born on Sept. 25, 1944 in South Haven, to her parents, Leonard and Neva Christensen. She graduated from Hope College in 1969 and acquired a master's degree from Grand Valley University in 2005. She married Donald Olendorf in 1973.
Ann was a loving wife who adored her children and grandchildren. Her soft kisses and hugs will be treasured memories.
Ann was a patient and supportive educational leader with a passion for children in poverty with promise. She was an avid sailor who spent 30 years visiting the remote spots of the Great Lakes on her beloved "Isle of Skye."
Mrs. Olendorf is survived by her husband Donald; her brother Chuck; mother-in-law Mary Olendorf; daughters, Krista Willertz (Chris) and Sonja Skerbeck (Jamie); son Eric Olendorf (Megan); and 10 grandchildren, Raegan Willertz, Alec Willertz, Maria Willertz, Joseph Skerbeck, Sophia Skerbeck, Nicholas Skerbeck, Emma Olendorf, Andrew Olendorf, Matthew Olendorf and Charlie Olendorf.
Kindness and optimism were her greatest strengths.
Mrs. Olendorf will be buried in a private ceremony on Dec. 12. A memorial service will be on Sunday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 252 Grand St. in Saugatuck. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ann's life. Visitation will be at the church at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Fennville Educational Foundation, P.O. Box 231, Fennville, MI.
Arrangements are being provided by Dykstra Funeral Home.
.