Melva Nellie Allerding

Melva N. Allerding was called to her Heavenly home on Monday, November 30, 2015 at Thornapple Manor, where for 3 years, she was cared for by very able and precious people.

She was born in Hastings, April 30, 1924, the daughter of William and Nellie (Billings) Clagett.

Melva grew up on the farm and acquired good character traits from her Mom and Dad. After graduating from Hastings High in 1942, she continued her studies at Wayne State, persuing a Nursing degree. That goal was achieved in 1949, when she became a Registered Nurse upon graduation from the Butterworth School of Nursing in Grand Rapids.

By choosing that career, Melva was better able to help and care for others, as she was prone to do.

Her generation grew up in a challenging time. She taught her children to recognize and appreciate the "little things" in life. Compassion and generosity, (others first) was her 'M.O.".

She especially liked her times at Gun Lake and was a loyal Tigers and Cubs fan.

Melva is survived by sons, Gerald Whitney, James (Karen) Whitney, brother, Wyman Clagett, grandchildren, Amber (Floyd Badanish) Whitney, Adam Whitney, Tyler Whitney, Drew (Abby) Whitney and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Nel, daughter, Janice, little brother, Marvin, former spouse Bill Whitney and husband, Neil Allerding.

At no surprise, years ago, she signed on to the Willed Body Program at the Department of Anatomy at Michigan State University. She will have a part in the continual advancement of medicine.

Memorial contributions may be made to Thornapple Manor, 2700 Nashville Rd., Hastings, MI or Great Lakes Caring Hospice, 630 Kenmoor Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, March 23, 2016 at the Girrbach Funeral Home at 2:00 pm with a one hour visitation period prior to service time from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm.