Avery Playford

Avery Playford, 80, passed away peacefully December 6th, 2018 at his winter home in Florida. Avery was born January 20, 1938 on a farm near Hillsdale, Michigan. He was the son of Vance W. and Lona Norris (Mettert) Playford. After serving in the U.S. Army, Avery earned a B.S. degree and a Master in Social Work degree from Western Michigan University in 1968 and 1971. Avery retired in 1997 from employment with the State of Michigan. First working in mental health and then for the Dept. of Social Services as a licensing consultant for adult foster care. For many years, Avery was a member of the Kalamazoo Ham Radio Club with the handle of K8ALP. He was also an avid fisherman, a loving husband, father and grandfather. Avery is survived by his wife, Patty, two sons David B. Playford of Everett, WA., and James W. Playford of Woodstock, GA. He is also survived by his daughter, Judy Way (Jeff) of Kalamazoo, and two grandchildren Ethan M. Way of Chicago, IL and Emma M. Way of E. Lansing. Avery is survived by two sisters Donna Hitt and Carmen Leupp both of Stryker, Ohio. He is survived by two nephews and two nieces all of Ohio. There will be a memorial service honoring Avery's memory at the clubhouse at Kline's Resort, Three Rivers, MI. on Saturday, May 4th, 2019 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice or to the People's Church at 1758 N. 10th St. Kalamazoo, MI. 49009.