Lawrence “Mike” Dale Matthysse, age 92, of Rockford, was welcomed into the arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

Mike was born on June 27, 1933, to Marinus and Audrey (Albright) Matthysse. On July 20, 1956, just two weeks before entering the United States Army, where he proudly served his country, he married the love of his life, Ardith DeVries. Together, they shared nearly 70 beautiful years of marriage.

Mike had a strong work ethic and provided for his family in many ways throughout his life. He worked at Michigan Bell Telephone and International Harvester, co-owned the Satellite Drive Inn with his brother, and later owned and operated American Building Supply and several rental properties.

Some of Mike and Ardith’s most cherished years were spent raising their family on Camp Lake in Sparta, Michigan. There, Mike loved entertaining guests, sailing and boating, tending his yard and garden, and growing tomatoes. These moments created lasting memories for their children and family.

In retirement, Mike and Ardith embraced adventure and friendship. They spent many special years traveling the country in their motorhome with close groups of friends, eventually settling in Key Largo and later Lake Placid, Florida, where they made their home for over 20 years before recently returning to Michigan. During his years in Florida, Mike delighted in spending time shrimping and fishing in Key Largo and growing pineapples in Lake Placid. He was actively involved in his communities and developed many meaningful friendships that he relished. Christmas held a special place in Mike’s heart. No matter where he called home, he created beautiful outdoor light displays each year that brought joy, wonder, and warmth to everyone who saw them.

Faith was an important part of Mike’s life. He was an early member of Fairview Reformed Church (now Orchard Hill Reformed Church), later First Presbyterian Church in Lake Placid, Florida, and most recently worshiped at Baptist Bible Church in Sparta.

Above all else, Mike treasured his family and friends. He loved deeply, lived energetically, worked tirelessly, and leaves behind a legacy of devotion that will continue through the generations who knew and loved him.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Ardith; his children, Laura (Ted) Barscewski, Larry (Sonya) Matthysse, Ken (Debra) Matthysse, Janine (Seth) Warfield, and Jennifer (Randy) Wooten; grandchildren, Shelly (David), Chris (Kelly), Mike (Kari), Jamie (Ryan), Amanda (Brett), Nick (Samantha), Anthony, Amber (Andrew), Brandon, Holly (Chad), Adam, Michelle (Jeffrey), Maryanne, Ariana (Austin), Lauren, Erin, Ryan, Ethan (Nina), and Collin; several great-grandchildren; his brothers, Donald, Allan (Loretta), and Lester (Maxine); and his sisters, Sandra Groothuis and Linda (Fred) Kuhn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, William; his brother-in-law, David Groothuis; and his sister-in-law, Mary Matthysse.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Beuschel Funeral Home, 5018 Alpine Avenue NW, Comstock Park, with Reverend Ralph Robrahn officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. A light luncheon will follow, and interment will be at Rosedale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Living Stone Ministries with Marty and Becky Mingus, c/o First Presbyterian Church, 118 N. Oak Ave., Lake Placid, FL 33852.

Mike’s family rejoices in the promise that he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he loved.