"For those who may not know me, I had "Miss" Stephanie for a unit leader for half of the summer, my first year at Bay Cliff. I was having a really hard time adjusting to the camp and all of the responsibilities and I often thought about going home. Two girls from my unit did go home, as well as our unit leader. At that poing I felt very confused. We were told that Steph would be our new unit leader, and I just told myself, there is only a few more weeks just stick it out. So I did, and that was one of the best decisions of my life. Stephanie changed my whole outlook on BayCliff. She helped me see what a difference I was making in these kids lives and how important every moment with them was. She was so patient, and just amazing. I think she really turned our unit around and all of us girls became really close. The last day of camp we were going over my evaluation privately outside of the nook and I told her how at first I wanted to leave, and then when Miss Becky left I really wanted to because I was scared. And I admitted to her that I was so glad I stayed because I do not know what I would have done without this experience. And I will never forget what she said to me "Think about what little Daniella would have done without these 3 weeks with you, or Lyric." That was the first time that I realized that I helped these kids grow as much as they helped me. I do not think that she knows what an impact she had on my life during those few weeks, but I feel very lucky to have known her, even for just that short amount of time. And her ability with the kids in Shady Nook was wonderful, they all loved her. She's in the center of a bunch of pictures I have on my wall from BayCliff, and she just looks so peaceful and happy. That is how I will always remember her. I love you Steph and I will never forget you. "I think you're wonderful" My prayers are with her family. God Bless."
In loving memory of
Stephanie K. Grenke
October 1, 1973 - November 6, 2002
Stephanie Grenke, 29, of 153 Lakewood Lane, Marquette, died unexpectedly at her home Wednesday morning, November 6, 2002.
Stephanie was born on October 1, 1973 in DeKalb, Illinois. She was a 1991 graduate of Marquette Senior High School. In 1999 she graduated magna cum laude from Grand Valley State University with a degree in special education and psychology. Stephanie had taught at the Holly Area Schools where she initiated a program for severely multiply impaired children. Prior to that she taught at the Ottawa Area Center in Zeeland, Michigan.
She worked several summers as a unit supervisor for the Bay Cliff Health Camp. She provided before and after school care for children ages 3 12 for the YMCA in Grand Rapids in 1996-1997 and was also involved in summer programs for the YMCA in Marquette.
With a love for volunteering her time to help others Stephanie worked with U.P. Special Olympics and coordinated the winter Special Olympic games in 1993. She also volunteered at Camp Independence in Big Bay, the Peter White Public Library and Peace Camp in Marquette. She was a member of the Council for Exceptional Children, was a Special Olympics partner and also previously taught Sunday School at Messiah Lutheran Church in Marquette.
Stephanie is survived by her loving parents, Herb and Sandra Grenke of Marquette; one sister, Liz (Bill) Leach of Royal Oak, MI; two uncles, Art (Pat) Grenke and an uncle and Godfather, Arlin (Georgia) Grenke, both of Oconto Falls, WI; her Godmother, Joyce Olson of Shawano, WI; also surviving are several great aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday at 6 p.m. in Messiah Lutheran Church with Rev. Timothy Bernard and Rev. Jon Magnuson officiating. Rev. Msgr. Timothy Desrochers will also be participating. Interment will be in the Park Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the church on Sunday from 3 p.m. until the time of services.
Stephanies cousins will act as her escorts.
Bay Cliff Health Camp was our beloved Stephanies place of peace. In spite of daily struggles living with a severe biological brain disorder, the unconditional love of the children and staff at Bay Cliff allowed Stephanie to enable miracles, one child at a time. Stephanie showed great empathy towards the pain of all Gods creatures and was remarkably able to see the joy that is hidden in pain. Her spirit is a gift to all who knew her.
Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy are kindly asked to consider Bay Cliff Health Camp, 310 W. Washington St., Suite 300, Marquette, MI 49855.
Bless The Beasts and The Children
By: Karen Carpenter
Bless the beasts and the children,
For in this World they have no voice, they have no choice.
Bless the beasts and the chldren,
For the world can never be
The world they see.
Light their way
When the darkness surrounds them.
Give them love,
Let it shine all around them.
Bless the beasts and the children.
Give them shelter from a storm.
Keep them safe.
Keep them warm.
Light their way,
When the darkness surrounds them.
Give them love,
Let it shine all around them.
Bless the beasts and the children.
Give them shelter from a storm,
Keep them safe.
Keep them warm.
The Canale-Tonella Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Tributes
"Our best memory of Stephanie is our wedding day as Stephanie was our flower girl. I remember her Grandma telling me she was so happy she could stand up for a wedding and be in the grand march at the reception so she could go under "the bridge." I have a picture of her going under "the bridge" with the biggest smile on her face. I also remember she walked down the aisle in the church just before I did and I made her hold hands with the little boy that was the ring bearer. She turned around and gave me a look, like I have to hold his hand???? No way! But she did just as I asked. As Stephanie loved children, she too is a child of God. God has unconditional love for us all. May she now be a peace in the ever loving arms of Jesus. Sandy, Herb, Liz & Bill just remember that God does not give you anymore than you can handle. As Phillippians 4:13 states I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
"My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you strength for healing, and peace knowing that Stephanie is now bringing her gifts to the children in God's house."
"Dear Liz (and family): Please know that although we are unable to be with you in person, you are heavily in our thoughts and prayers today and in the coming days. God's hand holds a special place of peace for you and he will carry you through this time as you nestle into that place. We love you and are lifting you up as well. Terry & Deb"
"I am one of Steph's old high school buddies. My heart is saddend by your loss. She was an angel sent from above. God's blessings to all her family and friends."
"I just wanted the Grenke family to know that my thoughts and prayers are with them and with Stephanie."
"To the family of Stephanie: Tonight while speaking with my mother in Marquette, I learned of Stephanie's death. Stephaine and I went to Marquette Senoir High and worked together at Bay cliff. Stepanie was an incrdible person blessed with such a loving persoanlity. It was troubling to learn of this news and I want to entend my most sincere condolences. I am so sorry. Dave Emmette"
"To the Family of Stephanie, Although it has been many years since I saw or spoke with Stephanie, I remember her with fondness. She always had a smile on her face and was so nice to everyone. It sounds like Stephanie made such a difference in so many lives, for that we are all blessed to have known her, even if for just a short while. I remember your house on Gray street and playing with Stephanie and Stephanie (Bard) and Kristy (Giddings) in middle school. She was a very sweet girl... My heartfelt sympathies to all of you for losing such a wonderful person. I can't imagine how hard it is for you. I will remember her always with a warm place in my heart. May God bless you all during this difficult time. Sincerely- Trista (Hernandez) Houle"
"Herb, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts & prayers of my family are with you, Sandy and the rest of your family. God's peace. Brad"
"To the Grenke family and all those who were touch by Stephanie. It is not often a loving person such as Stephanie comes along. She touched the hearts of so many people those who are close to your family and many you will never know from Bay Cliff and Special Olympics. The warm and loving memories of Stephanie are held by many of these people and will continue for time to come. Stephanie is a person who has a charm that worked well with individuals that had challenges in life and needed the extra attention not easily or freely given by others. Stephanie will be greatly missed by many but will remain in the hearts and souls of so many who achieved great strides in their lives because of Stephanies efforts and willingness to give freely. God Bless"
"To the Grenke family: I knew Stephanie since Elementary School and remember playing at your house. I was shocked to find out about her untimely death. I am so sorry and would like to express my sympathy to your family. She will be missed. Lori Perkins"
"Herb and Sandy: My sympathies extend to you and your family. I did not know Stephanie, but after reading all these beautiful tributes, I wish I had known her. God be with you."
"To The Grenke Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you through this sad time. Stephanie was a great friend and will be missed dearly. Her contributions to this world were wonderful and many people are better for knowing her. Sincerely, Paula (Baldwin) Sides"
"I wanted to let you know how sorry I am for your loss. Stephanie was a very kind person, and will be remembered that way. Sincerely, Sarah (John) Smart MSHS Class of 1991"
"Herb, Sandy, & Elizabeth -- I am so sorry to hear about Stephanie's death. I fondly remember watching the girls during various football weekends in the mid-70's. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God bless & keep you in His love and care -- Sheryl"
"I remember so well the day your family called to tell us Someone cared enough to give you life I remember like it was yesterday. You cried when I first held you. Until I rubbed your back And told you your name. Then you seemed to remember there was a reason why you came. I remember so well the honor to be your Godmother The eagerness of wanting you to learn the things of the Lord Thoughts of God knowing you and his purposes for you while you were in the womb and on earth, Psalm 139 I remember so well the love of your family, Psalms 131: 1-2 Your parents ability to communicate love, grace, support and understanding I recall special blessings of agape love from you and your family The examples of being real and honest about life Nearly always you had a special smile for others. A confident, happy spirit, filled with courage, strength and determination. You used your unique special gifts to care for others like no one else could Purple was your favorite color You enjoyed reading, the outdoors and sports A special spirit was within you to love And there was never any doubt the world was a better place Because you were in it. Its been over a month now since youve gone Only God knows what you experienced in your soul, or Bible characters like Elijah, Job, Jonah, Paul, Rebekah, or Rachel Perhaps now you are singing It is Well with my Soul When peace, like a river, attendeth my way Despite what you endured these last years One thing I know for sure, Hebrews 11 The years we shared together with you will be sadly missed We lament because we love. Your special qualities will live on in our memories May you now always experience the comfort of Jesus Christ, who said, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Joyce Olson"
"Dear Stephaine, You have always been in my heart, and always will. Joseph"