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East Grand Rapids teacher succumbs to cancer

Posted at 7:01 PM, Dec 28, 2019
and last updated 2019-12-28 19:01:49-05

EAST GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — East Grand Rapids Middle School superintendent, Heidi Kattula, announced Matthew Fouch, longtime algebra and geometry teacher and coach passed away after battling cancer Saturday.

"While some older children, especially middle school and high school students, may process this with their peers at school," Kattula said in a note sent home to parents, "there will be no further formal school announcements."

The school is urging parents to speak with children who both knew and didn't know Mr. Fouch at their own discretion, and to reach out to the district for additional support.

"Matt’s legacy of exemplary service to the students of East Grand Rapids will stand as a lasting tribute to his character. His teaching, coaching, mentorship, and friendship have positively shaped the lives of thousands of students, colleagues, and parents." said Kattula.

Fouch was diagnosed with cancer 18 months ago and leaves behind a wife, Jill, who is also a teacher at East Grand Rapids Public Schools, and 3 children.