Evelyn Weckerly

Evelyn Weckerly, age 83, from Royal Oak, MI passed away May 21, 2025. She was born on September 4, 1941, in Detroit, MI. Arriving three months early and weighing just three pounds, she spent her first two months in the hospital, mostly in an incubator. At that time, it was not known that the oxygen used in incubators could affect a baby’s developing eyes, leading to lasting impacts on Evelyn’s vision.

In her early years, Evelyn was able to perceive shapes, forms, and colors, but her vision gradually declined. At eleven years old, she underwent cataract surgery, which sadly resulted in the complete loss of her sight. 

Despite these challenges, Evelyn’s childhood was filled with happy memories. She recalled roller skating down the driveway while holding onto her sister, and spending summers reading, playing cards, swimming, and treating herself to hot fudge sundaes at Sanders in downtown Royal Oak, MI. A memorable trip to Florida included sitting atop an alligator, wearing a large snake around her neck, and encountering a squawking parrot. Evelyn’s deep love for animals, particularly dogs and cats, was a constant in her life.

Evelyn began her education in Detroit, where she benefited from special services for visually impaired students. She endured long rides to school, often passing time by reading braille books. At age eleven, she transferred to the Michigan School for the Blind in Lansing, where she formed lasting friendships and discovered her love for music. She practiced piano diligently- two hours each day-memorizing every piece she played. Evelyn’s musical talent left a strong impression on many. She graduated as valedictorian and served as her class secretary, inspiring those who followed her. 

Following high school, Evelyn attended Michigan State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English, and later obtained a master’s degree in English from the University of Michigan. During her personal, academic, and professional life, she became an active member of the Federation of the Blind, traveling across the country to attend their annual conferences. Evelyn devoted most of her career to teaching English at Mona Shores High School in Muskegon, MI. Her influence was lasting - her sister, Marilyn, met many former students who spoke of Evelyn with great admiration. One staff member at Rose Garden Assisted Living, where Evelyn later lived, fondly recalled learning to write under Evelyn’s guidance. 

Evelyn’s passion for music remained strong throughout her life. She often mentioned that she might have pursued a career as a music teacher. Evelyn was an avid reader of Music Magazine and BBC Magazine. Over the years, she built an impressive collection of over 1,200 CD’s covering classical, jazz, Scottish, and organ music. Music remained a central joy in her life. 

Evelyn also loved to travel. She journeyed independently to several countries, including Malta, England, Scotland, Ireland, Portugal, France, and Canada, always embracing new experiences. 

Her life was a testament to perseverance, hard work, and faith. Whether mastering piano, teaching English, learning to cook, or memorizing Bible scriptures, Evelyn demonstrated remarkable intellect and resilience. Her church community and spiritual life were a vital source of strength and connection. 

We are profoundly grateful that Evelyn chose Rose Garden Assisted Living as her home due to the exceptional care she received. She was dearly loved and inspired all who knew her. 

Evelyn was the oldest and is survived by her two siblings, Marilyn Helmers and Gary Weckerly, as well as eight nieces and nephews, 19 great-nieces and nephews, and one great-great nephew.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Devon Schultz officiating. Burial will take place at White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery in Troy, MI. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Monday from 10-11 am at the funeral home prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Rose Garden Assisted Living.