Connie (Dalton) Groendyk

February 11, 1943 – September 2, 2025

Constance Louisa (Dalton) Groendyk, affectionately known as Connie, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on September 2, 2025.

Born on February 11, 1943, Connie was the beloved firstborn child of Willis and Barbara (Cotton) Dalton of Woodland, Michigan. She enjoyed an idyllic childhood on the family farm, where she developed a lifelong love for animals, music, and the joys of country living. Connie shared her formative years with her sister and brother, surrounded by the rhythms of farm life and the support of a loving home.

Connie attended Woodland School, just steps from her family's farm, completing her education there from kindergarten through high school. She was a proud member of the school's final graduating class in 1961. She continued her studies at Michigan State University and Western Michigan University, ultimately earning a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Music.

With a heart for teaching and a gift for music, Connie began her professional life as a music teacher in Saranac and later as a second-grade teacher for Jenison Public Schools . Her passion for education and nurturing young minds left a lasting impact on countless students.

Before settling down to raise her family, Connie explored the world—most notably enjoying a memorable three-week tour of Europe. She also cherished time spent traveling around the United States with her family in their motorhome.

A gifted pianist and organist, Connie faithfully played the organ every Sunday for over 25 years at Kilpatrick United Brethren Church. She also enjoyed playing for weddings and special events, including several at Charlton Park where she delighted guests by performing on the historic pump organ.

Connie was a devoted follower of Christ and found her greatest joy in her role as a mother and grandmother. She lovingly raised her daughters, Teresa and Melissa, instilling in them the values of faith, education, and a deep appreciation for rural life. She was known for her creativity and care—sewing handmade holiday dresses and costumes for her children. In her later years, she embraced the role of grandmother with pride and joy, treasuring time spent with her five grandchildren.

Connie had a generous spirit and a heart for giving. She supported several children’s charities throughout her life, including Youth Haven Ranch, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Compassion International. She enjoyed gardening, shopping, and watching Christian programming in her free time.

In her final days, Connie reflected on how fast time had passed—a reminder to all that time is a precious gift.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Teresa (Josh) Weller and Melissa (Doug) Hengesbach; her cherished grandchildren, Ethan, Emma, Elijah, Maddie, and Drew; her siblings, Sharon (Paul) Halladay and Gary Dalton; and nieces Kristen (Mark) Tonello, Kimberly (Rich) Giddings, and Karrie (Josh) Plowman, along with several great-nieces and nephews and cousins.

Connie is reunited in heaven with her parents, Willis and Barbara Dalton, her grandparents, and other dear relatives who went before her.

A visitation and funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Kilpatrick United Brethren Church, 10005 E Barnum Rd, Woodland, MI. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with the service following at 11:00 AM. Connie will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Green Acres of Ionia and Interim Healthcare Hospice for their dedicated care in Connie’s final years and days.