Byron Aldrich ’54

Aldrich, Byron V. Ypsilanti, MI Age 88, passed away Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at home under hospice care. He was born March 7, 1933 in Berwyn, IL, the son of William M. and Gladys (Howell) Aldrich. Byron graduated from Hope College in Holland, MI, majoring in math and physics. Joining the U.S. Army, he served from 1954-1956. He continued his education at the University of Michigan where he earned his PhD in Education and Psychology. In 1961 Byron married Marcia Welch ’59, the love of his life, and she survives him. Together they had two children: Linda Aldrich ’86 (Gordan Jurasek) and David ’87(Tracy Manuel) and were blessed with four grandchildren: Andrea and Erika Aldrich, Maks and Luka Jurasek. Other close relatives are Phyllis, Dick Hertel and Pam, and Todd Menkveld. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother William. Byron worked as a school psychologist and did teacher in-service training for many years. He loved to spend time with family, camping, gardening and doing genealogy. He was a kind and gentle person thinking the best of everyone. He left us with wonderful memories. Cremation has taken place. There will be a memorial service in the Spring. His final resting place will be the Memorial Gardens at First United Methodist Church in Ypsilanti, MI.