Ardith Joyce Raak

Ardith Joyce Raak, 73, of South Haven passed away December 17, 2009 at home under the care of Hospice of South Haven.

Ardith was born in Holland, Michigan to Roy and Betty (Bement) Naber on April 16, 1936. Ardith graduated from Holland High School and ttended Western Michigan University where she earned her teaching degree. She married Edwin E. Raak, from North Holland on December 21, 1957 at Trinity Reformed Church of Holland, Michigan. Together they had three sons, Thomas J. and Barbara (Hafer), James K. and Barbara (Strong), and John J. and Criselda (Vasquez). They have nine grandchildren.

Ardith began her teaching career in the North Holland Elementary School (now West Ottawa) and concluded her 37 years in the Fennville Public Schools. At one time in her career she taught each of the eight elementary grades. She later became Curriculum Director, Elementary Principal, and Superintendent of Schools.

Teaching was Ardith’s love and passion as she was selected several times as Allegan County Teacher of the Year.
Upon completing her teaching career she served three times on the Fennville School Board as Vice Chair, and served in the positions of Treasurer and Council Chairperson in the Ganges United Methodist Church. Ardith also managed their family’s farm market (Dutch Farm Market) north of South Haven.
In Ardith’s world there was only one way of doing things. “The Right Way”. She exemplified that integrity in everything she and stood tall with her associates who respected her unrelenting values.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Kindly share your thought and memories on the family’s online guest book at www.FilbrandtFFh.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice of South Haven, or the Ganges United Methodist Church.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven 637-0333.