Bert Froysland, Founding Trustee of the Au Sable Institute, passed away this afternoon. We mourn his loss with his family, but we also celebrate the assurance of Bert's eternal life. His obituary is found below.
The photo at the top of this email is from August 2024, when Bert last visited Au Sable. During that visit, the board of trustees and other friends gathered on the porch of the lodge to pray for Bert, thanking him for his life of service. In a quiet moment, Bert chimed in with his distinctive voice, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow!"
He will be missed dearly.
Bertel James Froysland
November 21, 1930 - May 1, 2025
On May 1, 2025, Bertel James Froysland was called home to be with his Lord and Savior. He was born November 21, 1930, in Jersey City, New Jersey, the son of Hans and Evelyn Froysland.
After finishing high school, Bert attended Taylor University, graduated from Calvin College and received a Master’s degree from the University of Michigan. Following that, he proudly served in the United States Army at Fort Knox, Kentucky in 1953 and 1954.
He began his career as an English teacher at Caledonia High School in 1955. He then taught at Creston High School from 1956 through 1958, and completed his long career in education at East Grand Rapids High School from 1958 through 1992. Since that time, Bert maintained invaluable close relationships with faculty and former students until his passing.
Bert was co-founder of Au Sable Trails Camp for Youth near Mancelona, Michigan in 1963, which later became Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies in the mid 1970’s. The Institute still thrives today. He was also co-founder of Christ Church on Breton Road in Grand Rapids, Michigan which opened its doors in 1965. He served as deacon, treasurer and elder.
Bert enjoyed tennis, boating, woodworking, and entertaining family, friends, and students of all ages. He was a master at bringing people together. A special shout-out to all his Happy Hour friends, and to residents and staff of Cascade Trails Independent & Assisted Living who cared for him with such kindness and love.
Bert is survived by his son Eric (Shelley) Froysland, daughter Andrea (Bobb) Ford, grandchildren Max (Ashley Delepine) Froysland, Leah (Adam Amos) Froysland, Molly Froysland, Tobin (Becky) Ford, Courtney (Carol) Ford, and Cara (Jay) Riemersma, great grandchildren Sophia (Jacob) Swyers, Trip Riemersma, Nick Riemersma, Simon and Ellie Ford, and Claire Ford. He is preceded in death by his wife Mae, and his brothers Bernie (Susan) Froysland and Bruce Froysland.
Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on Wednesday, May 21, 4:00-7:00 PM and Thursday, May 22, 10:00-10:45 AM. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, May 22 at 11:00 AM, followed by a luncheon. All events will be at Christ Church, 2500 Breton Rd., SE, Grand Rapids, MI. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in honor of Bert to Au Sable Institute (https://www.ausable.org/donate) or to Christ Church, PCA (https://www.christchurchgr.org/give).