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Brad Walker
October 7, 2025
I just today discovered Mrs. Kendall's passing, 14 years after, through an unlikely string of thoughts. She was my home room teacher in 7th grade in 1985, as I recall, and even though my family moved away from Otsego school district between my 7th and 8th grade years, I have always recalled Mrs. Kendall as among my favorite teachers, and I have such fond memories of my last year there at Otsego.
It happened that I visited Grand Rapids over the weekend after not having passed through the area for quite a number of years. I recalled a field trip I took to visit the glass studio of Dominick Labino back in 7th grade, with Mrs. Kendall as one of the chaperones for the students who went. I remember getting to ride with her in her Trans Am, which was just the coolest since I was a car enthusiast as far back as I can remember and Mrs. Kendall had, by far, the coolest car in the school parking lot. But it got me thinking about how cool she was in other ways, like always encouraging that extra measure of creativity, and telling us straightforwardly when she thought we could apply ourselves more to better utilize our talents. She seemed to take great joy in encouraging kids to surprise her with their best effort in projects and assignments. I feel like Mrs Kendall had a great influence on me at a formative time when I was discovering my interests, developing my strengths and nurturing friendships with other classmates. I mean, that trip to the Labino art studio left a mighty lasting impression on me, so I am thankful that she had the insight to arrange that learning experience for us.
Thinking back on all this led me to Google Mrs. Kendall. Sadly, I learned of her untimely passing here. My sincere condolences to Mr. Kendall and her family.
Lori Hoadley
September 24, 2011
Dear Kendall Family,
Words can't tell you how saddened I am to hear of Debbie's passing. As a former student (Class of 82) she was wonderful with keeping in touch, always interested in what and how I was doing. I will miss her terribly & the school & township have suffered a great loss. God Bless you & give you hope as you remember the wonderful person she was and all the happy memories you have of her.
Sincerely,
Lori (Gantt) Hoadley, Toledo
Elizabeth Gorski
September 23, 2011
Ms. Kendall was an absolute joy; a remarkable individual. I cannot find the words to properly describe what a blessing she was to all that knew her. I am so very fortunate to have had her teach my son Ben. Heaven is an even greater place now that she is there!!!!!
September 22, 2011
Dear Mr. Kendall, Your wife was an inspiration to so many, and loved by all. She was always sincere, and caring to me and my children. She will be missed but never forgotten.
Kelly Leake& Family
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Ewart, Rebecca, Aiden, and Gabriel Skinner
September 22, 2011
Stephen, we are so incredibly saddened by this incomprehensible week of loss to you and your family. Please know that you are in our hearts and prayers and surrounded by our love.
Dawn Christensen
September 22, 2011
Dear Mr. Kendall, I have known your wife for more than 15 years. Deb invited me to speak to her class on several occasions to teach them about blindness. I could tell when I walked into her classroom that she taught out of love and for all the right reasons. I spoke to her class this past spring when she shared that she was retiring. I felt a void in my heart for Otsego schools and all of the children she has touched over the years. After my presentation, she presented me with an angel necklace. This past spring my husband, Keith Krischak, was diagnosed with liver cancer and he battled it for six months. He passed away on September 20th. Today, Deb’s obituary precedes Keith’s. Deb and Keith will always be angels in my heart. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
September 22, 2011
I remember Debby from teachers meetings and union meetings.. She always had a smile for everyone and was always very upbeat. My husband and I are saddened by this tragedy. We are praying for all of her family. Sincerely, Bob and Shirlee Suter
Kay & Cecil Polan
September 22, 2011
Kay & I are deeply saddened by the loss of Debbie. We can still see her as a small girl playing with her brothers. We continue to pray for all the family. God bless!
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