Doryce Isabelle Verhougstraete

Born December 22, 1926, in Lansing, Doryce was the daughter of Leon and Geteau (Hilts) Cross. She spent her life rooted in the north Lansing community where she built a family and a legacy defined by love, quiet strength, and unwavering family devotion. As a result of her receptionist position at the downtown branch of American Bank & Trust (later becoming National City Bank), Doryce had many friends and business colleagues.

Doryce enjoyed a full and vibrant life and was nicknamed “Go-Go Grandma” by her grandchildren. She treasured her travels—especially with her sister Betty and brother-in-law Bob across the entire US in their rather large motor home. She also held a deep fondness for the family cottage in Leland, Michigan. A truly devoted Michigan State fan, she rarely missed watching the Spartans men’s and women’s basketball games. She was also a regular at many of the Lansing’s Men’s softball games. She found joy and peace in gardening, especially the many flower beds that adorned her yard. But Doryce also loved the simple pleasures of life: Ice cream stores, Kewpee’s Hamburgers, fresh scones, and every evening, 7:00 PM sharp, you could find her watching Wheel of Fortune. Whether playing Tri-Ominos, or a competitive game of Euchre, her family and friends quickly learned she liked to win.

She was especially proud of the fact that she and sister Betty were considered International Smugglers. The “Baldwin Sisters” as they called themselves, were known to make numerous trips to the family home in Chatham, Ontario where they loaded their car with delicious– hard to get in the States, Canadian pastries from the family bakery.

She was preceded in death by her husband Oscar; sons Douglas and Kent; parents; and sisters Betty (Bob) Jones and Donna (Robert) McKeen.

Survived by son David (Cris); daughters-in-law Brenda (Barry) Underwood and Donna; grandchildren Brian (Amy), Brandon (Andrea), Marc (Amy), and Katie (Luke) Mason, Dan (Michelle); and seven great-grandchildren she adored; Megan, Ashley, Mallory, Emily, Hattie Rose, Molly, and Ozzie Thomas.

Memorial donation in Doryce's honor may be directed to Lansing Hospice (Direct link below).

A private family service will be held.