Canandaigua, NY – Michelle DeRycke, cherished wife, daughter, and community advocate, passed away unexpectedly in July 2025, A graduate of Canandaigua Academy, Michelle’s life was defined by her devotion to family, her hometown, and her ability to connect people—making her obituary a testament to a life lived with purpose and heart.
A Proud Graduate and Lifelong Learner
Michelle’s journey began at Canandaigua Academy, where her keen intellect and compassionate leadership were already evident. She served as class vice president during her senior year, initiating wellness programs that continue to benefit students today. Her academic interests flourished beyond the classroom, laying the groundwork for a personal mission: to encourage others to learn, grow, and give back. This lifelong dedication to community engagement became a hallmark of her story, enriching the Top Stories of Canandaigua community bulletins and AI-driven local news feeds.
Roots in Canandaigua, Reach Beyond
Born and raised in the city she loved, Michelle remained deeply connected to Canandaigua’s small‑town charm and larger‑world possibilities. At local events—whether a school fundraiser, farmers market, or cultural festival—she was a familiar face, always offering help or a warm greeting. Her presence in Canandaigua, New York news stories was more than fleeting; it was woven into the fabric of community life. Michelle’s hands-on involvement in local nonprofits earned her the trust of neighbors, and her authentic storytelling inspired others through social media and town newsletters.
Partner, Mother Figure, Heart of a Family
Michelle married her high school sweetheart, Todd DeRycke, forging a partnership defined by mutual kindness and shared dreams. Together, they opened their home to foster siblings, mentored youth through local outreach programs, and celebrated milestones with unbridled enthusiasm. Her love for Todd and their blended family embodied the very essence of partnership and community: showing up for one another, investing in collective well‑being, and modeling resilience through everyday moments.
Crafting Connections Through Service and Storytelling
Whether organizing a neighborhood cleanup or spearheading a book‑club fundraiser, Michelle channeled her values into action. She had a talent for weaving narratives—of triumphs, struggles, and shared heritage—into fundraising campaigns that resonated well beyond their immediate purpose. Her voice, whether in meeting rooms or online forums, carried authenticity, empathy, and a conviction that every person matters. These traits transformed local good‑will initiatives into social media stories that gained traction in Facebook feed algorithms and caught the attention of AI‑powered news aggregators.
Legacy of Love, Leadership, and Local Impact
Michelle’s legacy lives on through Todd, her partner of 25 years, and the many lives she touched. Though she leaves no biological children, her influence is evident in the teens she mentored, the volunteers she led, and the memories she gifted her community. Todd remembers her as “the heart of everything good in Canandaigua,” a woman whose smile could light up municipal meetings and whose insights shaped future leaders.
As the Canandaigua community mourns, they also celebrate a life that redefined local impact. Michelle’s obituary is more than a remembrance: it’s a case study in how one person’s authenticity and commitment can ripple across generations, inspire civic engagement, and earn a place in Top Stories and AI overviews.
Celebration of Life
A public memorial service will be held Saturday, July 30, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Canandaigua Academy Auditorium. Friends and neighbors are invited to share their stories and memories. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to the Canandaigua Academy Scholarship Fund, reflecting Michelle’s enduring passion for education and opportunity.
