Myrtie Jane Symonds

Myrtie Jane Samples was born in Clear Lake, Wisc. on Oct. 23, 1930 to Henry Clay and Jessie Samples. They lived on the family dairy farm until moving to Berrien Springs when Myrtie was still a child.

While attending the academy at Emmanuel Missionary College, now Andrews University, Myrtie met a returning war veteran with snappy brown eyes who won her heart. Upon completing her secretarial studies in South Bend, Myrtie married David Symonds on Jan. 1, 1950. Settling in Berrien Springs to married life, the couple were blessed with two children, Tammie and Mark.

Meanwhile, Myrtie worked at Whirlpool Corporation for over 30 years as an executive secretary, a career for which she was well-suited because of her sharp mind, attention to detail, and quick wit. Her time at Whirlpool brought her many happy memories and lifelong friendships.

After her retirement from Whirlpool, Myrtie and Dave enjoyed traveling around the States, visiting friends and family, and just seeing the sights until Dave died in 2011. In later years Myrtie traveled less but felt very blessed she could remain in her home and live independently. After a short illness, she passed away on Aug. 1, 2023.

Myrtie loved to read, loved to spend time with friends and family, and loved the Lord.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dave; and her son, Mark Alan.

She is survived by her daughter, Tammie (Harold) Riess; grandsons, Jeffery Alan (Claire) and Michael Alexander (Cassie); siblings, Betty Fetke and Henry Samples; and many attentive nieces and nephews.

Private graveside services were held Aug. 4 at North Shore Memory Gardens. Messages and memories may be shared at www.allredfuneralhome.com.