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Deborah Lynn Ensing-Millhuff, age 62, of Ada, passed away on Thursday, October 13, 2016 from an unexpected stroke and complications of cancer. The daughter of Eugene “Spud” & Alma (Weller) Ensing, she was born on March 4, 1954 in Great Lakes, Illinois.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and in-laws, Fred “Sonic” & Shannon (Snyder) Millhuff. Surviving are her loving husband of 31 years, Mitch Millhuff; sister, Priscilla (Frederick) Finch; brothers, Gordon (Connie) Ensing, and Don Ensing; nieces, Shannon Finch, and Meghann (Sean) Finch-Evans; nephew, Shawn Finch; great nieces, Haley Finch and Zoe Evans; and great nephew, Samuel Evans.
Deb had a compassionate heart and showed it to everyone coming in contact with her. Her sense of humor was boundless, as was her love in the beauty of our planet. She loved planting flowers in the Spring, and couldn’t get enough of the wonderful colors of fall. She was an advocate for animals, and worked at the Humane Society of West Michigan for a time, and volunteered after leaving. Her degree in Criminal Justice led her to working at the prison in Ionia, then to the State Social Services Department. She was passionate about politics, and became a Trustee in the Village of Ada, which eventually led her to being elected Ada Township Clerk. It was a perfect fit for her being involved with the parks and cemeteries of Ada.
She had many, many friends throughout the years. Here are a few of the wonderful messages they have sent: “My heart is broken”, “Your light is still shinning bright”, “She was larger than life”, “While my heart cries, my memories rejoice”, “She was a joy, full of life and humor”, “The sky is crying here in Paradise, CA”, “She is adventurous, kind and forgiving”, “Deb brought a positive energy to any space she entered”, “She maintained her characteristic courage, sass and humor to the end”. Deb will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Deb’s favorite holiday was Halloween, so a celebration of life will be held from 11:00a.m. – 1:00p.m., on Monday, October 31, 2016 at Michigan Cremation and Funeral Care, 3627 Linden Ave. S.E., Grand Rapids (One block west of Eastern Ave.). In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Humane Society of West Michigan, hswm.squarespace.com
Honoring her wishes cremation will take place. Arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids.
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Only today, did I find out my friend and former colleague Deb had passed away. I met Deb shortly after moving to Ada, where she served the community as Township Clerk.
Shortly after, I was elected as a Trustee of the Township and for the next eight years, had the distinct honor and pleasure of serving alongside Deb as a member of the Ada Township Board. Deb was a tireless servant of the people, whose goal was to make the Township a great place to Live, Work & Play for everyone.
Some of my fondest memories of Deb involved her love of decorating her office for each holiday, with special attention given to Halloween. I confess, the candy bowl she kept in her office, always seemed to find its way onto my destination list, when visiting the Township offices.
Unlike many who serve as elected officials, Deb had a keen interest in integrity and ethics. I was proud to co-sponsor her efforts to establish an Ethics Policy within the Township. Her departure from her role as Clerk was like today, a sad day for me.
In a life where the number of true friends is often small, I count myself fortunate to have had Deb as one of mine. I hope that the time since her passing has brought healing to her family and friends and her joyous, funky spirit has found peace in a better life.
I’ll continue to miss you Deb. R.I.P.