Tedde Marie Rinker

Tedde Marie Rinker, D.O.

Theresa "Tedde" Marie Rinker, D.O., of Lansing, Michigan, passed away on February 18, 2026. She was born Theresa Marie Rinker, September 14, 1951, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Lowell P. Rinker, Sr. and Anne A. Rinker.

Tedde attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Grade School and graduated from Ottawa Hills High School in 1969. She earned her bachelor's degree from Aquinas College in 1973 and later received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Michigan State University.

A compassionate psychiatrist, teacher, and workshop leader, Tedde devoted her life to helping others heal and grow. She cared for thousands of people throughout her career and was widely known for her warmth, curiosity, and deep commitment to personal transformation. A unique free spirit and pioneer in progressive medicine and culture, she brought together her brilliant mind, generous heart, and passionate spirit in all that she did.

As founder of the Center for Stress Medicine, Tedde worked to transform health care through an integrated mind–body–spirit approach. Through her workshops and teachings, she supported many people in breaking through personal and social barriers, pursuing deep healing, and embracing their full humanity.

Tedde spent much of her life in California before returning to Michigan in January 2019 following the passing of her beloved partner, Larry Roberts.

She shared meaningful partnerships with Lior Jacob and Larry Roberts, and together they raised two children, Gaia Jacob and Max Rinker.

She is survived by her children, Gaia Jacob and Max Rinker-Davis; and her brothers, Lowell (Kathy) Rinker, Patrick (Karen) Rinker, and Michael (Marsha) Rinker.

The family invites all whose lives were touched by Tedde to join in celebrating her life and legacy on Sunday, April 12, at the AC Hotel (3160 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48912). Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:30 PM. A reception will immediately follow, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor Tedde's remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tedde's memory to the Johns Hopkins Lyme Disease Research Center. Donations may be made online at https://www.hopkinslyme.org/supporting-the-lyme-disease-research-center/.