Ronald Goodyke

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald H. Goodyke on Tuesday, October 15 after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Ron was born in Holland, Michigan, on August 12, 1942, to Henry and Irene (Diekema) Goodyke. He graduated from Calvin College in 1964, completing his MA+ degree studying at Howard University and in Lyon, France. Ron was a man of steadfast faith, integrity, and purpose. His boundless energy and passion were evident in every aspect of his life, from his career to his community service. Ron enjoyed a fulfilling career teaching French in the Forest Hills School District, where he not only educated but also inspired countless students. He initiated a program of student travel to France during his thirty-year tenure, fostering a love for culture and language. Summers were spent as Director of Camp Henry, where Ron’s heart for serving others shone brightly. With a staff of college-age counselors, he shared his faith with hundreds of children, creating an environment filled with fun, joy, and spiritual growth. His positive energy, sense of humor, and compassion made every moment memorable. Ron was also deeply committed to his community, serving on the Cascade Planning Commission and holding positions as Township Trustee and Township Clerk, dedicating over twenty-six years to public service. His strong faith was evident throughout his life, and for over sixty years, he was a devoted member of Cascade Fellowship Church. There, he served on governing boards, worked with youth programs, and contributed to Christian school boards. Ron lived life to the fullest, always embracing new challenges with a spirit of hard work and enthusiasm. He was an extraordinary husband, father, and grandfather. His love for his family was unshakable, and he was beloved by everyone who knew him. He was a man of positive energy, always willing to help anyone in need. His competitive spirit and inspiring nature made him a cherished friend and mentor to many. He leaves Sherry, his wife of 61 years. Their devotion, dedication and love for each other will always be remembered by their children, Thom and Julie Goodyke of Grand Rapids, Julie and Tom Ford of Lake Leelanau, David and Kitty Goodyke of Portland, Oregon and Karen Goodyke Barney of Ann Arbor; as well as their grandchildren Sawyer and Parker Goodyke, Sharon and Catherine Barney and Sylvia Goodyke. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two older sisters, Marilyn Lee and Joan Haight, leaving several nieces and nephews. Ron’s funeral will be a private family ceremony. Friends and family are invited to a casual reception to celebrate and remember Ron’s life on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 1-4PM at Cascade Fellowship Church, 6655 Cascade Road SE. The family welcomes you to join them for this gathering to honor a life well-lived. The family sincerely thanks Porter Hills Food Service Department for their expert help with his dietary needs, and also Faith Hospice staff for their unwavering kindness and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Camp Henry Scholarship Fund, or to Faith Hospice, Grand Rapids. Ron fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. By this same faith, we claim God’s promise that he is now in the presence of Christ and, by His grace, free from all that imprisoned him. 2 Timothy 4:7 To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ronald Goodyke, please visit our flower store.