Vaud Shenefield

Vaud Ira Shenefield, age 99, of Delton, MI passed away comfortably at home on Monday, October 5, 2015, following a very short illness. He was born to Ernest and Agnes Shenefield in Detroit on April 19, 1916, graduating from Coldwater High School in 1935. He was active in sports and especially enjoyed playing softball on a team coached by his father. While in Coldwater, Vaud was recognized as Jaycee of the Year. He married Alice May Ryder on November 19, 1941. They raised their three children, Louise "Louie", Tom and Penny in Kalamazoo, where he was Vice President of Miller Sash and Door Company for over 40 years starting in sales. Vaud was a member of the First Baptist Church where he coached his son's church basketball team. He was an Elk and a member of the National Sash and Door Association. Vaud and Alice traveled extensively, enjoying "attitude adjustment hour" all over the world. Following retirement, they moved to Rose Lake, Coldwater, converting the family cottage to their year-round home. In 1987, they moved to North Port, FL and lived there until 2012 when they returned to Delton, MI to be closer to family, where he enjoyed watching his great-grandchildren in sports. His family was most important to Vaud. A perfect day for him was one with family. He had such a zest for life, was loved by many, and was a huge influence on all who knew him. Vaud is survived by his wife, Alice; children, Louise "Louie" Gilbert of Canton, GA, Tom (Sharon) Shenefield of Coldwater, MI, and Penny (Ward) Goff of Delton, MI; 11 grandchildren, Michael (Krystal) Gilbert, Brian (Beth) Gilbert, Steve (Heather) Shenefield, Mark (Jill) Shenefield, Russ (Kelly) Porter, Robb (Rhonda) Porter, Julie) Kyle) Aukerman, Joely (Jesse) Lyons, Jill (Jason) Howland, Justie (Les) Brewer; and 29 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Laura Greenich of Coldwater, and Yale Shenefield of Jackson; daughter-in-law, Phyllis Shenefield; grandson, David Shenefield; and son-in-law, Bruce Gilbert. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. A gathering of family and friends will be held Sunday, October 11, from 2-4 PM at Grove Street Cafe, 370 N. Grove St. Delton, MI.