Hettie Angelina Molvang, 95, of Traverse City, passed away on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 24, 1929, in London, England, she was the daughter of the late Marco and Hettie Dellarocca. Hettie immigrated to the United States as a war bride after World War II, having been married to the late Maurice Kunkle, with whom she had five children. Later in life, she married Eric Molvang in Traverse City, MI, and together they lovingly expanded their family by adopting a daughter.
As a proud member of the Greatest Generation, Eric and Hettie built a life filled with love, family, and community. Hettie was a lifelong learner, earning both her Master's in Teaching and her Master's in Nursing from Michigan State University, then practicing as a Nurse at Cadillac Mercy Hospital. She dedicated 25 years to nursing education at North Western Michigan College, where she received the Imogene Wise Faculty Excellence Award and was ultimately recognized as a Fellow, shaping the future of healthcare with her expertise and compassion. Her commitment to education extended beyond her career as Hettie remained actively involved in education, contributing to the Eric and Hettie Molvang Endowed Scholarship at NMC for nursing and maritime students, and participating in the Michigan Retired Teachers Association.
Following retirement, Hettie devoted herself to extensive volunteer work with many community organizations, including the Commission on Aging, BASA, and the Steering Committee. One of Hettie's greatest volunteer passions came from service within the Parkinson's Network North advocating tirelessly for those affected by Parkinson's disease and increasing access to life-changing care nationwide.
Known for her thick British accent and kind, loving soul, Hettie's stories were a treasure trove of wisdom and humor. Anyone fortunate enough to hear them counted themselves lucky.
Hettie's passions were as diverse as they were vibrant. She enjoyed singing, tap dancing, acting, and sailing activities that brought joy to her and those around her.
Her involvement with groups like the Happy Tappers, Old Town Playhouse, Aged to Perfection, and numerous volunteer efforts exemplified her dedication to community and causes close to her heart. In her leisure time, she cherished moments with her beloved dog, Sadie, finding joy in life's simple pleasures. Her extraordinary spirit and zest for life made her an exceptional woman who truly aged to perfection.
Hettie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unforgettable stories. She cherished her life's journey and wished to be remembered simply by the phrase "I did my Best". She is survived by her children, Michael Kunkel of Georgia, Phillip (Sue) Kunkel of Grawn, Marco (Janet) Kunkel of Dearborn, Pamela (Brian) Horsford of Fountain, Kathleen Bowden of Traverse City, Elizabet (Quinton) Alderman of Cadillac, 9 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, her sister Sandra (Carl) Houghton of Cadillac, MI along with so many loving friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband Eric.
A community Celebration of Life will be held on July 15th at 1pm at the Hagerty Center at NMC to honor and celebrate Hettie's remarkable life. Condolences and memories can be shared with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Parkinsons's Network North, The NMC Eric & Hettie Molvang Endowed Scholarship, or a charity of your choice in Hettie's memory.