Word has been received of the death of Karen Nofsinger of Kentwood, Wayland High School’s first orchestra director, who was 71 and retired.
Nofsinger organized and coordinated the unique visit by the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra, in which Wayland students sat in with members of the orchestra and associate conductor John Varineau.
WHS Director of bands Kelli Tilley Smith said on Facebook” Karen Nofsinger led with love. She touched countless lives through music. She made sure we always had the important questions taken care of: ‘What food are we bringing to this next meeting?’
“She always had time for a meal together, she loved my children, and always reminded me when something should be a ‘kid job.’ She was kind, calm, and would always remind us that we could do hard things.
“I’m so glad I knew her. I’m glad we made music together and always put students first. I’m glad we were a team. She was my work mom and friend. I have missed working with her every day since she retired.”
Karen was born Nov. 15, 1954, in Elkhart, Ind., to the late Delbert and Helen Detwiler.
She is survived by her children and grandchildren, Nathan and Andrea Nofsinger (Molly and Benjamin), Camille Nofsinger, Grace and Ryan Dale; as well as many extended relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Loren Nofsinger; an infant son, Peter Nofsinger; and her sister, Debra Detwiler.
Karen was a gifted musician and served as a music teacher for the majority of her life, most recently as the orchestra director at Wayland Union Schools. She enjoyed quilting, traveling, and her summer beach days. As a loving and kind wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and pastor’s wife, she cared for people well and left a lasting mark on those she knew.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 3 p.m.on Sunday, Feb. 15, at Kindred House, 555 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, where a memorial service will begin at 3 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Wayland Orchestra Parent Organization. (Venmo: @WOPO_strings) (Checks: Make out to WOPO, Mail to: Joy Manning, 2088 Island Drive, Wayland, MI 49348).
Mrs. Nof was one of the best role models I’ve ever met. She made such an impact on my life along with many others in orchestra. She let us grow with passion. Great woman
Karen was a very talented orchestra director. She instilled the love of instruments in children of all ages. Her talent and kindness reached far beyond her students and she ALWAYS had kind words to share. I worked with Karen before we each retired and am grateful for every conversation I had with her. May her dear and sweet soul rest in peace. ❤️🎶
Mrs. Nofsinger was the kindest, sweetest soul there could be. She taught so much more than music – she taught love and compassion. Whenever I’m asked about a “favorite teacher in school,” she is my first answer! She made class a fun place to be, a place you actually wanted to learn and engage in. She will be so greatly missed!