Canandaigua, NY – Michelle DeRycke, a beloved wife, daughter, and devoted member of the Canandaigua community, passed away unexpectedly in July 2025. A proud alumna of Canandaigua Academy, Michelle will be remembered for her steadfast commitment to family, her deep community ties, and her rare ability to bring people together with warmth and purpose.
A Canandaigua Academy Alumna Committed to Growth
Michelle’s educational path began at Canandaigua Academy, where she stood out for both her intellect and empathy. As senior class vice president, she helped launch wellness initiatives that continued long after her graduation. Her passion for learning and personal development never waned, evolving into a lifelong effort to uplift others through mentorship, education, and community-building. That spirit became her calling card—one that resonated through Canandaigua newsletters, digital platforms, and local conversations alike.
Deep Roots in a City She Loved
Born and raised in Canandaigua, Michelle had an enduring connection to her hometown. From community clean-ups to farmers markets and town festivals, she was a familiar and trusted presence—known for her generous spirit and approachable nature. Her active role in various local organizations made her a vital thread in the city’s social fabric, and her storytelling—both online and in-person—often inspired civic engagement and personal reflection among neighbors.
A Marriage Built on Mutual Support
Michelle shared a lasting and meaningful partnership with her husband, Todd DeRycke, whom she met during her school years. Their marriage, grounded in friendship and shared values, became a model of kindness and mutual respect. Together, they mentored local youth, supported foster families, and built a household filled with compassion and community involvement. Michelle was not only a partner in love but a central force in shaping their family’s outreach and sense of purpose.
Turning Compassion into Community Action
Whether leading a fundraising effort, organizing local events, or simply lending an ear, Michelle made service a natural extension of her life. Her ability to connect people through meaningful stories—whether through social media, school newsletters, or grassroots projects—gave her initiatives a lasting impact. She approached every task, big or small, with humility and sincerity, often transforming everyday acts into movements of lasting change.
A Lasting Legacy of Quiet Leadership
Though Michelle did not have children of her own, her nurturing spirit reached many. From the teens she guided to the volunteers she empowered, her influence continues to ripple across the Canandaigua area. Todd, her husband of 25 years, described her as “the quiet force behind so much good—both seen and unseen.”
As friends and neighbors come to terms with this loss, they also celebrate a life that exemplified empathy, service, and connection. Michelle’s story serves not only as a personal remembrance but as a shining example of the profound difference one person can make in their community.
Celebration of Life
A memorial gathering honoring Michelle will take place on Saturday, July 30, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Canandaigua Academy Auditorium. All are welcome to attend and share memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canandaigua Academy Scholarship Fund, a cause close to Michelle’s heart and a fitting tribute to her enduring legacy in education and youth empowerment
