With hearts heavy yet brimming with cherished memories, we bid farewell to a beloved soul, Cindy Dettloff, who passed away on February 22, 2024 after a courageous two-year battle with endometrial cancer.
Cindy’s journey was one illuminated by love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. Born to James and Roberta Ramsey, Cindy’s story unfolded in the familiar embrace of Elmhurst, where she found lifelong companionship and love. It was amidst the halls of York High School that Cindy first encountered her soulmate, James Dettloff, igniting a love that would endure the tests of time. In 1985, Cindy and James exchanged vows, weaving the threads of their lives together in a tapestry of love and commitment. Amidst the tender care of her in-home daycare center, Cindy nurtured not only the hearts of the children under her care but also the bonds of her growing family. Blessed with the arrival of sons Matthew in 1996 and Kyle in 1998, Cindy’s world blossomed with the laughter and love of her cherished boys. Together, the Dettloff family embarked on countless adventures, from the sun-soaked shores of Florida to the tranquil waters of Wisconsin Dells and Benton Harbor, where Cindy’s passion for paddleboarding found its truest expression. A natural swimmer, Cindy found solace and joy in the embrace of the water, her spirit buoyed by the rhythm of the waves. Her love for the outdoors extended to biking and leisurely walks, where she reveled in the simple beauty of nature’s embrace. A true aficionado of life’s pleasures, Cindy’s heart danced to the melodies of Engelbert Humperdinck, whose music served as the soundtrack to her happiest moments. Surrounded by a close circle of friends, Cindy cherished the shared adventures and cherished memories created in the glow of live concerts. As a margarita connoisseur, Cindy’s passed away on National Margarita Day, a fitting celebration of her vibrant spirit and zest for life. Cindy leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter that will echo through the hearts of all who knew her.
She is survived by her devoted husband James Dettloff; beloved sons Matthew and Kyle; her loving parents James and Roberta Ramsey; dear siblings James Ramsey, Lynda (Steve) Stanfa, and Mark (Debbie) Ramsey; cherished siblings-in-law Randy Dettloff and Kevin (LuAnn) Dettloff; adoring nieces and nephews Kari, Bryan, Justine, Nicholas, Steven, Jake, Zach, Charlie, and Danny; along with 11 great-nieces and nephews, and a host of friends and family whose lives she touched with her warmth and kindness. Cindy is welcomed into eternal peace by her sister-in-law Marianne Ramsey, her spirit now free to soar among the stars.
In honoring Cindy’s memory, let us celebrate the vibrant tapestry of her life, embracing each moment with the same joy and passion that she brought to ours. Though she may be gone from our sight, her light will continue to shine brightly, guiding us with love and laughter until we meet again. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s, reflecting Cindy’s compassionate spirit and dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
Cindy’s spirit lives on in the laughter of her loved ones, the gentle sway of the waves, and the melody of her favorite songs. May she rest in eternal peace, her memory a beacon of love and light in our hearts forevermore.
