Beverly Gassdorf

Beverly Ryon Gassdorf, age 95, passed away in Grand Rapids on April 9, 2025. Born on November 26, 1929 in Philadelphia, PA to George and Jane (Parent) Ryon, Beverly was raised alongside her younger brother, George Jr. She met Gerhard “Gary” Gassdorf in the second grade. After graduating from Wilson College, she married Gerhard in 1953. They moved to Detroit Michigan and settled in Ferndale where her primary role was caring for her family which would grow to include her daughters, Nancy and Thelma. Beverly was in Girl Scouts for 50 years, first as a scout, and then as a leader. She also volunteered, spending time at her church, as a docent at the Detroit Zoo and Cranbrook Museum. In retirement, Beverly and Gerhard moved to Grand Rapids and settled in Breton Woods.

Beverly is survived by her husband, Gerhard; her daughters, Nancy Gassdorf (David Staub) and Thelma (Scott) Dykstra; grandchildren: Jacob Dykstra (fiancee Mandi Roy) and Lydia Dykstra (fiance Chris Kleinhans); great-grandchildren Garnet, Rubie and Elliot; as well as her sister-in-law Marilyn Ryon.

All are invited to join in a short service celebrating Beverly’s life on Monday, April 21 at 2 PM at Raybrook Manor in the friendship room (2121 Raybrook Street SE). After the time of sharing will be an informal time of visitation and light refreshments until 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, Beverly's family suggests donations to her alma mater, Wilson College (Wilson College office of Institutional Advancement, 1015 Philadelphia Ave, Chambersburg, PA 17201-1285)