Alice Joyce Seiler

Alice Joyce Seiler, 90, passed from this life to life everlasting on April 7, 2015.  Born a Peterson in Wheaton, MN in 1925, “Ollie” held fast to her Swedish heritage as she eventually relocated to the land of the Dutch.  In 1947, she accepted a teaching position in South Haven after graduating from the University of Minnesota.  Alice taught six years at Central School before taking a fifteen year leave to raise her family.  She returned to teach first grade at Hartman School and also served as Principal.  She so loved teaching and her students loved her.  She retired in 1984.

After retiring, Alice continued serving by volunteering for the American Cancer Society, the Literacy Council, Habitat for Humanity, the South Haven Educational Foundation and delivered Mobile Meals.  Alice was a devoted member of Hope Reformed Church.  She taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, helped with the Youth Group, worked in the kitchen and sang in the adult choir.  “I truly loved that church and the people.” 

As the story goes, Alice accepted a blind date with a handsome pilot who flew her along Lake Michigan’s shoreline – that move paid off for Joe.  Alice was married to Joe Seiler for 67 years.  Along with her husband, Alice is survived by her children Mark and his wife Suzy Seiler of Douglas, Joanie and her husband Tom Mills of Williamston and Alice’s sister, Magel Rockwell of Edina, MN.  Alice was preceded in death by her parents Alfred and Annie, brothers Sonny and Wes, sisters Sadie and Inez and daughter-in-law, Cindy.  She was “Grandma Alice” to so many neighborhood kids.  This brought her great joy.  Alice always had a pot of coffee on for all who stopped over.  Best friends, Gert and Jan, were permanent fixtures at her kitchen table.  “Hus kada ven, more coffee?”  Alice could joke with the best of them, gave to anyone in need and was a mother/friend to countless (blessed) individuals.

A memorial service will be held at Hope Reformed Church on Saturday, April 18 at 11 a.m.  At Alice’s request, in lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial donations in her name may direct them to Hope Reformed Church of South Haven.