Walloon Lake Association 2024 Spring Newsletter

Meet Our New EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, Haley Breniser

Sometimes, the perfect opportunity arises, and this is undeniably one of those moments. I am thrilled to join the WLAC community, recognizing the significant strides achieved over the last decade. The dedication of highly skilled staff, committed board members, passionate volunteers, and a robust membership deeply invested in the Walloon Lake Watershed is palpable. Serving as your next Executive Director is a privilege, and I am excited to contribute to this positive momentum with my expertise, enthusiasm, and personal environmental ethic. What an exceptional opportunity.

About 24 years ago, my conservation journey began in Banff National Park at the age of 22, fresh out of college. Despite a very sparse resume, I was driven by hope, intense curiosity, and ambition. As a fledgling wildlife technician, I tracked wolves through protected wildlife corridors and monitored human impact on wildlife behavior. While physically demanding (and slightly intimidating!), it fueled my profound passion for land, water, and wildlife conservation. This early experience solidified my commitment to understanding and addressing the impact of human activities on our planet’s resources and our responsibility to steward it wisely.

Over the years, I assumed diverse leadership roles in the environmental sector, adding a beautiful dimension to my life when I became a mother in 2018. Parenthood has deepened my dedication to land and watershed protection and simply made me a better person. In my most pertinent professional roles, I served as the Director of Ecological Services for the Kalamazoo Nature Center, Executive Director for Grass River Natural Area, and Campaign Manager for Torch Lake Protection Alliance. In these positions, I successfully managed land restoration projects and directed natural features inventories. I had the pleasure of overseeing the development of a nature center and enhancing trail infrastructure. I enjoyed building robust teams, training and inspiring board members, leading successful fundraising campaigns, and guiding passionate individuals toward common, impactful goals.

Reflecting on my time in the environmental field, one lesson stands out the most: providing opportunities for people to connect with nature is transformative. Whether standing at the shoreline in the early morning fog, captivated by the eerie call of a loon, or waking up to the wood frog’s deafening chorus near a vernal pool, these moments are life-changing. It is how we forge our personal relationship with the natural world, the key to shifting perspectives, changing behavior, and fostering a life-long environmental ethic. Walloon Lake is more than a vital natural resource; it’s a gathering place. Our responsibility is to understand and cherish it through science, communal connections, and a commitment to its ecological resilience. As steadfast members of Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy, your generosity and enthusiasm are crucial to realizing our mission. I sincerely look forward to spending time with you and sharing in your love affair with Walloon. Thank you for welcoming me into the fold…

Thank You,

Haley Breniser WLAC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Birdsfoot Native NurseryCHAMPIONING NATIVE PLANT CONSERVATION

By Pam Roudi

Discover the Birdsfoot Native Nursery, our new partner in native plant conservation. Established in 2018 by Garrett Noyes and Blythe Webster, Birdsfoot Native Nursery specializes in cultivating Michigan native wildflowers, grasses, sedges, and shrubs. Their commitment to sustainability is paramount, emphasized by their practice of propagating plants from locally sourced seeds, with a steadfast focus on preserving Michigan's unique genotype whenever feasible. Birdsfoot adamantly opposes the use of harmful pesticides and neonicotinoids in the nursery trade, prioritizing the health and well-being of both plants and the environment.

Situated 25 miles east of Traverse City in northwest lower Michigan, Birdsfoot Native Nursery operates with full licensing and inspection, boasting an extensive catalog of over 100 species in production. Their offerings cater to a diverse array of growing conditions, designed to foster and support native pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.

The foundational efforts of Garrett and Blythe were bolstered by the support of Vern Stephens of Designs by Nature, LLC in

Laingsburg, MI. Since 1997, Vern, alongside his wife Sue Tangora, has been dedicated to cultivating native plants, providing a strong backbone for Birdsfoot's inception. This collaborative spirit continues as Birdsfoot remains aligned with Vern's legacy, supplying native plants for various sales outlets including local County Conservation District spring plant sales.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of native plants in sustaining the health, diversity, and resilience of our region's natural resources, Birdsfoot Native Nursery champions the utilization of native species in both natural and manufactured landscapes. With a burgeoning movement towards embracing native flora in developed and wild settings, Birdsfoot takes pride in contributing to this collective endeavor and extends gratitude to those who embrace the principles of planting native.

Furthermore, Garrett's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship is exemplified by his recent completion of training to become a Michigan Certified Natural Shoreline Professional in 2022. This prestigious program equips professionals

with the requisite knowledge and skills to implement erosion control measures utilizing natural materials and bio-engineering practices, thus safeguarding the ecological integrity of Michigan's inland lakes. Birdsfoot Native Nursery is also a member of the Native Plant Guild (nativeplantguild.com) and participates in Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network’s “Go Beyond Beauty” program (habitatmatters.org/go-beyond-beauty).

To discover more about Birdsfoot Native Nursery, visit their website at birdsfootnativenursery.com.

CELEBRATE MICHIGAN’S NATURAL BEAUTY

The Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy (WLAC) is thrilled to announce the 4th Annual Native Plant Sale on Saturday, June 22nd, 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm in front of the WLAC office in Walloon Village. This year, in collaboration with Birdsfoot Native Nursery, we are offering an exceptional selection of Michigan Native Species available for purchase in specially designed kits (shoreline, pollinator, semi-shade, and tall prairie) along with a limited inventory of native shrubs! Join us and gain valuable insights from Garrett Noyes, owner of Birdsfoot Native Nursery, who will be on-site to provide expert advice on the significance of planting native species.

Do Your Part, Be SepticSmart:

The Do’s and Don’ts of Your Septic System

Learn these simple steps to protect your home, health, environment and property value:

Protect It and Inspect It: Do:

• Have your system inspected (in general) every three years by a licensed contractor and have the tank pumped, when necessary, generally every three to five years.

Think at the Sink:

Don’t:

• Pour cooking grease or oil down the sink or toilet.

• Rinse coffee grounds into the sink.

• Pour household chemicals down the sink or flush them.

Do:

• Eliminate or limit the use of a garbage disposal.

• Properly dispose of coffee grounds & food.

• Put grease in a container to harden before discarding in the trash.

Don’t Overload the Commode:

Don’t:

• Flush non-degradable products or chemicals, such as feminine hygiene products, condoms, dental floss, diapers, cigarette butts, cat litter, paper towels, pharmaceuticals.

Shield Your Field:

Don’t:

• Park or drive on your drainfield. The weight can damage the drain lines.

• Plant trees or shrubs too close to your drainfield, roots can grow into your system and clog it.

Don’t Strain Your Drain:

Don’t

• Concentrate your water use by using your dishwasher, shower, washing machine, and toilet at the same time.

All that extra water can really strain your septic system.

Do:

• Dispose of these items in the trash can!

•

Do:

• Consult a septic service professional to advise you of the proper distance for planting trees and shrubs, depending on your septic tank location.

Do:

• Stagger the use of water-generating appliances. This can be helpful especially if your system has not been pumped in a long time.

• Become more water efficient by fixing plumbing leaks and consider installing bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators and water-efficient products.

FASCINATING STORIES of Walloon Village PART ONE

Shops and Other Businesses

By Lauren Macintyre

Over the years the Walloon Village — or the Foot, if you prefer — has seen remarkable changes. Imagine the early days of the Village when it was a bustling community, complete with train station, multiple hotels, dance hall, cinema, bowling alley, grocery stores, shops and even a few manufacturing enterprises. Later in life, though, the Village saw sad decline and deterioration until its more recent revitalization as a food and entertainment center.

The year 1884 saw the beginnings of the little village at the foot of Walloon, originally named Talcott after the gentleman who platted it. Among the first businesses to prosper in Talcott was the polished wooden butter bowl factory of A.K. Smith, which was moved there from the North Arm. Apparently the blocks used to create the wooden bowls, though, were known as skulls and so for a time the Village acquired the decidedly inelegant, but thankfully, short-lived nickname of "Skull Town."

By 1900, though, little Talcott had changed its name to Walloon and business was booming. Among those businesses was the Michigan Incubator Company, which was actually the off-season occupation of Master's & Hass Boat Works. The company boasted its incubators were "The Best at Any Price" and perfect for the successful hatching of chicken, duck, turkey or goose eggs.

Later the philanthropic James Whitfield founded the Whitfield Packing Company for the purpose of providing employment for the villagers. Located near the present site of the library, the company became well known for its canned "Sunny Hill" brand apple sauce, corn and pickled peaches. The proximity of

the lake, however, eventually dictated that catering to the needs of resorters would be the way to go for would-be successful businessmen in the Village, and shops, hotels, boat works and bath houses began to flourish.

Amazingly, one remarkable little building in the Walloon Village has witnessed nearly all these astonishing changes. Standing guard for more than 120 years is a tiny building with a quaint bell shaped roof, the oldest building in the village business area. Over the years it has served as a barber shop, post office, dry cleaners, lunch room and various shops. To accommodate these different uses the little building was moved at least three times; vintage photographs show it next to the depot, across the tracks next to the General Store, then further down the road closer to the beach.

In the 1950's it housed a small cafe called Grandma's Lunch. Later it became one of the Village's most memorable shops, the cleverly named "Inch and the Foot," owned by Wallooners Worthy Minor and Marty Sloneker.

The two women opened the shop in 1959, offering an array of goods including clothing, hats, toys and household items.

In the late 1970's another well remembered shop called "Betty's Klothes Kloset" opened in the pointy roof building, featuring resort wear and Walloon themed apparel. Owned by Betty LaPpin, this very popular shop operated until about 1994, when Barbara Steele opened it as Walloon Resortwear, offering similar apparel choices. Eventually her shop moved into the General Store building across the street.

Today the beautifully maintained pointy roof building is the charming cottage of Wallooners Pamela Bonnell and husband Frank Cartwright. The iconic building, now called the "Little House," made its last move in 1996 when it was transported to a small lot just east of the current post office. Pamela's father, the

A sketch of the "pointy roof" building in its early days as the Walloon Post Office. (Photo courtesy of the owner.)

his wife Kathy, later purchased it and did extensive renovations. The Little House has remained in the Bonnell family ever since.

Another iconic institution in the Village is the General Store, which has seen various locations and numerous owners. The store's tradition began many years ago when the enterprising Alfred E. Hass established a general store at the Foot. The store, which was later sold to the Ransoms, burned in the Village fire of 1907. After that sad event, the Ransoms relocated the store in the Koneta Building and moved it across the railroad tracks. This two-story white clapboard structure, with its double pillared verandas ornamented with simple Victorian gingerbread, is the iconic building so fondly recalled by many Wallooners.

Ransom's Store was a busy place, selling all manner of merchandise while also housing the Post Office. In 1928 L.A. Spalding and wife Mary bought the store and were soon known for delivering goods around the lake. Eventually their daughter Lucile and her husband Ross Renwick bought the business. For many Wallooners perhaps no other name is more synonymous with the General Store than that of Renwick. The store was very much the social center of the Village in the summer months.

Ross and Lucile Renwick sold the store in 1963, and the decades that followed saw a number of different owners of the store, including the Schachs; a group of Walloon businessmen; the Watermans and the Penfolds. Tragedy struck in 1972 when a fire destroyed the much-loved wooden structure, which was then replaced by a metal building. Owners

Linda and Calvin Penfold, who had bought the store in 1998 with financial support from the Lunghamers and Marquardts, introduced a number of well-received delicatessen options. After many successful years the Penfolds presided over the store's last days, closing its doors in 2022. Happily, the General Store will soon find a new home in the Renwick condominium building.

Fred Shepard's Delicatessen was another celebrated store in the Village. Originally built in 1895, it burned to the ground in the disastrous Village fire of 1907. The intrepid Mr. Shepard rebuilt it in 1908, constructing a handsome building, much loved by Wallooners, that stood until 2006. The Shepards eventually sold it to AJ Crago, who operated a popular grocery business that was later moved to Petoskey.

After Crago's the building became Brower's Grocery & Soda Fountain, the name by which most Wallooners still remember it. Famous for its ice cream soda fountain and artfully patterned tin ceiling, it was one of every young Wallooner's favorite spots in the 1950's and 1960's. As Karla Howard Buckmaster recalls "I still remember Brower's soda fountain where soda jerk Ken Klumpp made the best cherry cokes, and real ice cream sodas! "

After the Browers retired, the building housed a few other enterprises, including a dance club, before finding new life as the hub of Dr. Gerald Mudd's Outdoor Club in the 1960's. In the decades that followed it sat vacant and in disrepair, a melancholy witness to the decline of the Village. In 2003 a fire at the boat works next door severely damaged the Brower building siding. It then met its sad demise in 2006 when it was razed for a condominium project. At that time pieces of the iconic tin ceiling were sold to the public as a fundraiser for

the Friends of the Library, preserving a bit of its storied past.

Another fondly remembered shop in the Village had nothing to do with groceries or soda fountains. Madge and O.W Dey's Rock Shop, on the corner of M-75 and East Street, was a favorite place to buy rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings made of polished stones. Appropriately, the Deys ran their business from their home, a picturesque cottage that featured a prominent stone foundation. Today the Rock Shop is no more, but the cottage still stands as a private residence.

While these days an ATM may be the only way to get cash in the Village, over the years various small banks served the Foot. The State Bank and Trust of Petoskey opened a bank in a temporary trailer in 1972. Later a permanent building was constructed and became Old Kent Bank, housed in the small white building that today holds the Post Office. Shockingly, particularly for Walloon, in August, 1993 the bank was robbed at gunpoint by a young man from Boyne City, who then stole the teller's car to make his getaway. Thankfully, no one was injured, the thief was apprehended and the loot recovered.

While retail, small manufacturing and banking were certainly important keys to the prosperity of Walloon Village, it was the business of boats —- building them, launching them and servicing them —- that was perhaps the biggest economic contributor of them all. Part Two of this series "Fascinating Stories of Walloon Village" in the next Wallooner will focus on those boats and marinas.

The General Store building when it was owned by Ross Renwick. This building stood until 1972.

(Photo courtesy of Rosemary Renwick)

Shepard’s Delicatessen/ Brower’s Grocery store building in its early days, and later when vacant, as shown in the Walloon Lake Villager.

Make plans to join the Miami University Alumni Association Tip of the Mitt chapter for the ANNUAL SUMMER GATHERING

TUESDAY, JULY 23 • 6 P.M.

WALLOON LAKE COUNTRY CLUB 5995 Country Club Shores • Petoskey, MI 49770

More details to come!

Cost is $50. Please register by July 15 at MiamiAlum.org/TipoftheMitt24

For registration questions, contact Emily LeFevers at 513-529-1497 or email RSVP@MiamiOH.edu

For general event questions, contact Kathy Schmitt ’85 at 513-518-2048 or email KathyDSchmitt@gmail.com

Incorporating native plants into your garden promotes environmental conservation while enhancing their beauty.

Native plants support local ecosystems, require less water and maintenance, and attract pollinators, contributing to biodiversity. Moreover, they hold cultural significance, connecting gardeners to the region's heritage. By creating native gardens, individuals can educate others about the importance of preserving native species and their habitats, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature.

The WLAC recommends and encourages embracing native plants in your garden as a step towards creating a sustainable and resilient outdoor space. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, exploring the rich diversity of plants native to our region can lead to a garden that not only looks beautiful but also plays a vital role in supporting the health of our local ecosystems.

Get your native plants at the WLAC 4th Annual Native Plant Sale on Saturday, June 22nd and take a step towards preserving Michigan's natural beauty. Let's work together to create sustainable landscapes that support local ecosystems and enhance the well-being of our communities for generations to come.

Embracing Nature THE BENEFITS OF

By Pam Roudi

SHORELINE STEWARDSHIP

Enhancing Michigan's Inland Lakes

by Pam Roudi

Michigan's inland lakes, like Walloon Lake, serve as vital ecosystems supporting diverse plant and animal life. Protecting these delicate ecosystems starts with planting native species along the shoreline. Native plants boast extensive root systems, anchoring soil and preventing erosion caused by waves and water level changes. They also act as natural filters, enhancing water quality by reducing runoff pollutants. Native shoreline plantings provide essential habitats for

various wildlife, contributing to biodiversity. As climate change brings about more extreme weather events, native plants offer stability amidst changing conditions. Beyond ecological benefits, native plantings enhance the beauty of lakefront properties and foster community collaboration. The WLAC works with various local organizations who aid in shoreline restoration projects and offer valuable learning experiences for schools and communities, inspiring future stewards of the environment.

KENZIE BOESEN

Membership and Communications Coordinator

Kenzie is a Northern Michigan native and knew after graduating that this special piece of Northern paradise is something that could not be beat. She is currently attending Northwestern Michigan College through online classes to achieve her Business Administration degree. Her passion lies in both client relations and creativity, and she is extremely excited to put these passions to use in the Walloon Lake Community. In her free time, Kenzie enjoys being a dog mom to her German Shepherd/Goldendoodle puppy, Milo, usually either being taken on adventures with him and his dad, Jordan or cuddling on the couch watching movies.

SKYLAR MACNAUGHTON Trail Maintenance Technician

I am a Northern Michigan boy through and through, born and raised in Boyne City where I reside with my wife, Jessica and two children, Bella and Jaxtyn. We are an outdoorsy family and enjoy camping, hiking, traveling the country and raising monarch butterflies in the summer months. I am the president and founder of Michigan Butterfly Habitats Inc. where we are spreading knowledge about native plantings throughout Northern Michigan to help landowners create pollinator Habitats on their properties.

I am an entrepreneur at heart as well as a self-taught naturalist and spend most of my time in the woods learning and experiencing what Mother Nature has to offer.

UPCOMING CALENDAR of Events

Monday, April 22

Earth Day: Pollinator Day

10am to 12pm

Wildwood Harbor Preserve

Friday, April 26

Arbor Day

Friday, May 10

Wander Walloon: Wildflower Walk with CAKE CISMA

2pm to 4pm

Wildwood Harbor Preserve

Monday, May 13

Wander Walloon:

Birding Hike with Petoskey Regional Audubon Society

9am to 11am

Fields Preserve

Tuesday, May 21

Wander Walloon: Garlic Mustard Pull with Cake Cisma

10am to 12pm

Howell-Zimmerman Preserve

Memories of Teenage Days ON WALLOON

Sailing, treasure hunts, square dancing and Wimpy’s Hamburgers!

by Lauren Macintyre

RANDALL POINT TREASURE HUNT, AUGUST, 1950

Original copies of the photo list the participants as follows: BACK ROW, STANDING: Nancy Randall, Toby Steinman, Helen Cole, Carol McKee, Jean McIlwraith, Sally Randall, Mary Kate Worcester, Joan Lancaster, Phil Lundell, Milly Parrish, Anne Bippus, Doane Randall, Danny Glover, Carol Ziegler, Gale Glover, Louise Parrish, Jack Schaffer, Martha Wiles, Nan Rauh, Martha Artz, Patty Randall, Marcia Crane. FRONT ROW: Skip Villerot, Gary Randall (with Duke the dog), Al Flynn, Derek Limbocker, Betty Randall, Phil Thornton, John Randall, Bill McKee, George Forkin, Frank Limbocker, John Limbocker

Swanson)

Sailing, treasure hunts, exploring the woods, square dances, walks to the Foot for ice cream and trips to Wimpy's Hamburgers in Petoskey — just imagine the idyllic lives of teenagers in the late 1940's and 1950's on glorious Walloon Lake, long before the era of cell phones, electronic games and social media. Those were halcyon days of warm friendships forged by shared summer experiences on Walloon. Those delightful days of yesteryear are still fondly recalled by many Wallooners born in the late 1930's.

Sally Randall Swanson and her sister Nancy Randall Wilde remember a particular event

in August, 1950 when a group of teenagers gathered at beautiful Randall Point for a treasure hunt, organized by their father George "Bud" Randall. Acres and acres of pristine woodlands and sandy lakefront on the Point were the setting for their search. Nearly all the teenagers came from families that had been on Walloon for generations. Happily most of those then-teenagers, or their families, are still on the lake today.

The occasion for the treasure hunt was Nancy Randall's 15th birthday, and even today Nancy has vivid memories of that special event. "My father Bud, who was very clever and

very gifted at poetry, spent weeks composing the clues," she comments. "We all broke into teams, and in order to be fair each team had to have one of the Randall children in it, since the clues often referred to family landmarks on the Point." So Nancy, along with her younger siblings Sally, Betty and John, and Randall cousins Patty, Doane and Gary, led the teams. Bank bags of dimes were the sought-after treasure.

The treasure hunt was captured for posterity by Litch Steinman, a professional photographer whose daughter Toby Steinman is shown in the picture. It's an iconic photo that evokes a dreamy time gone by, a gentle time of tranquil

(Photo courtesy of Sally Randall

hours spent on the lake. Many of the participants were gifted with a copy of the photo by Pete Rentschler, so it's not surprising that it still has pride of place in the cottages of numerous teenagers who were there.

Of course, the real treasure of that day might be the friendships that developed among the participants, friendships that continue today, nearly 74 years later. "At the time of the treasure hunt we didn't all know each other," recalls Sally Randall Swanson. "Because my father Bud, who loved to bring people together, invited the children of many of his own friends around the lake whom we didn't yet know. But afterwards we all became great friends as we got together for square dancing and sailing."

SQUARE DANCING

Bud Randall did more than just hold treasure hunts to bring young Wallooners together. As his niece Patty Randall Baker remembers, Uncle Bud was the one who organized the lively square dancing parties at Walloon Lake Country Club in the 1940's and 50's. His daughter Sally adds that her father Bud would put a banner up at the Foot to invite everyone around the lake, not just club members, to join the festivity. In that era square dancing was extraordinarily popular across the country, so the turnout was always excellent.

Bud usually hired a popular dance caller named Dick Kleinschrodt and various blue grass bands for the events, usually held on Friday nights. Sometimes participants wanted to keep dancing even after the caller and bands had finished, so Bud would then do the calling himself, using a record on the Victrola. Entire families would take part in the merriment,

changing partners, swinging left and right. It was an ideal opportunity for teenagers around the lake to get to know each other. "Everybody joined in," notes Frank Limbocker. "We had so much fun at the club back in those days." Sally Swanson agrees. "From square dancing to corn roasts, everything at the club in those days was family oriented and so very enjoyable."

SAILING

Sailing was yet another venue that brought many young people together as they raced their sailboats on the cerulean waters of Walloon, with the Snipe being the boat of choice for most of the teenagers at that time. Martha Artz Treiber had a Snipe named "Pink Lady," and she fondly recalls those sailing days. Martha

Adults, teens and preteens enjoyed Bud Randall's popular square dancing parties at the country club. The group above stopped dancing long enough to pose for this picture. Bud Randall is in the back row, fourth from the left. (Photo courtesy of Sally Randall Swanson)

An August, 1955 sports page of the Petoskey News Review featured the Northern Michigan Yachting Association Interclub sailing champions from Walloon (top right.)

Continued from previous page

also worked as a sailing instructor at Huntingdon Camp for Girls on Walloon.

Sailboat races were an exciting activity, followed by great fun. "Most of our races started at the Foot, so afterwards we would tie up our Snipes at Master's dock," explains Martha (Link) Wiles Krimendahl, "And we would often gather at the docks and party afterwards." Jean Bippus Ringer, who also sailed a Snipe, adds "And we would throw the winner, usually Link, in the water!" But the real challenge, according to Link, came as the boys would try to throw master sailboat builder Ted McCutcheon in the water after the races. But that didn't bother Ted. "My dad had a great sense of humor and loved all the fun." reports his daughter Pinky McCutcheon Wagner.

"All our friendships absolutely developed from sailing," recalls Frank Limbocker, who along with his brothers John and Derek, sailed a Snipe. "Everything centered around sailing." Frank, who would later would become commodore of the Walloon Yacht Club and own two 17 sailboats, still lives in the family cottage on Indian Garden.

The young sailors on Walloon did not compete simply with each other, but also participated in highly competitive interclub races with other resorts all around the area. In those days sailors from Walloon competed with yacht clubs from Little Harbor, Belvedere, Crooked Lake and Burt Lake. "The interclub races were definitely the highlight of Northern Michigan sailing," said Phil Thornton, a highly proficient sailor throughout his life and strong supporter of Walloon Sailors, Inc. "And for many years Walloon dominated. The parties afterwards were also memorable!

MOVIES AND WIMPY'S

When it came to parties and food, another favorite of Walloon's younger set in this era was Wimpy's Hamburgers in Petoskey. Originally a drive-in located at the intersection of Highways 131 and 31, the restaurant had been founded by

FAMILY TRADITIONS CONTINUE

Although many of the young people shown in the picture are still on the lake today, others have sadly left us. Still, their family legacy has been carried on by the next generation. Al Flynn, for example, a blonde young man on the left side of the front row, went on to become president of the Walloon Lake Association and help found the conservancy. His son Bob now occupies the family cottage on South Shore and, like his dad, serves on the WLAC board.

Raymond and Marjorie Roth in 1933. For more than 30 years it served up what they dubbed the world's best burger, using only the finest ingredients, which was, as its slogan proclaimed — "Imitated everywhere, equalled nowhere!"

Wallooner Jean Ringer fondly remembers Wimpy's. "We all went there all the time! It was amazing how the car hops never wrote anything down, but always remembered everything you ordered." Those orders usually included bags of "regular, standard or special" burgers and delicious malts. Burger prices ranged from 10¢ to 25¢, with the "special" olive burger commanding the highest price.

Interestingly, the restaurant's official name was not Wimpy's — a Chicago restaurant chain claimed that title — but there was no mistaking the large Wimpy character on the restaurant's sign, which simply read "Hamburgs." Owner Raymond Roth, a well known member of the community who lived on Walloon, was even nicknamed Wimpy. Beloved by many teenagers, he sadly passed away in 1958. Alas, Wimpy's closed in the 1960's, and today a new urgent care facility stands on the site once enjoyed by so many young Wallooners.

Martha Artz Treiber and Link Wiles Krimendahl both remember Wimpy's as the preferred place to go, especially after seeing a movie in downtown Petoskey at the Hollywood or Temple Theater. Today there are no movie theaters downtown and the old theater buildings now house a variety of shops. The Hollywood sign, however, still adorns the Lake Street building where the theater was located, and is easily visible near Cutler's.

Mary Kate Worcester Hastings is regretfully no longer with us but her son John Hastings maintains the Worcester family's stunning log home on Lake Grove, where Mary Kate's sailing prize flags still hang. "My mother was definitely an avid sailor," remembers John, who has preserved much of her memorabilia from that era.

George Forkin, shown in the treasure hunt picture is unfortunately no longer able to come to the lake but his sisters Peggy McDonald and Liz Minor safeguard the family legacy in the family's North Shore cottage. Louise Parrish Cahill lives in Denver but is still very much a Wallooner, while her late sister Milly Parrish Rentschler's children David Rentschler, Pete Rentschler, Jr. and Kate Rentschler Ausbrook are still quintessential Wallooners, enjoying the lake every summer.

Phil Lundell, in the back row of the photo, sadly passed away in Texas last fall, but his son Carl owns a house at the Foot, upholding the family's Walloon tradition. In the back row of the picture, Helen Cole Imbs stands next to her best friend Carol McKee; later in life Helen and her husband Joe built a house on Indian Garden where she still spends summers. Carol McKee has passed away and her brother Bill lives in North Carolina, but McKee family members still reside on the lake, maintaining the family's classic cottage on North Shore.

Although some of the then-young Wallooners in that treasure hunt photo have passed on, they have certainly not been forgotten. They live on in the old black and white photos, in the names on the old sailing trophies and in the hearts of those who knew them well. Yes, the memories of those warm friendships remain … as do the memories of those dreamy, evocative days on incomparable Walloon.

The 1952 Petoskey Evening News ran this photo of Wimpy's, a favorite spot of young Wallooners.

The Hollywood, a favorite of young Wallooners, was one of three movie theaters once found in downtown Petoskey. (Little Traverse Historical Museum photo archive)

Walloon Lake

Walloon Lake

June 26

June 26

WSI/WYC Fun Race 2pm

WSI/WYC Fun Race 2pm

July 11 17 day

July 11 17 day

July 22 - July 26

July 22 - July 26

Walloon Cup

Walloon Cup

June 1 7 - August 9

Mon - Fri 10am - 12:30pm

June 1 7 - August 9 2024 Season Lessons Youth Mon - Fri 10am - 12:30pm

Adult-Family-Private

Adult-Family-Private

July 9 - July 25

July 29

July 29

Parent/Child Race

Parent/Child Race

August 6

August 6

Peabody Novice Race

Peabody Novice Race

Tues and Thur 2pm - 4pm

Season Rate Key Dates

July 9 - July 25

Tues and Thur 2pm - 4pm

Season Rate Key Dates

A prepaid seasonal rate of $800 covers

sailing lessons for eight weeks for one sailor.

A prepaid seasonal rate of $800 covers sailing lessons for eight weeks for one sailor.

In Memoriam

If you have a loved one who has recently passed and would like to submit a memorial story in the next issue of the Wallooner, please let us know.

ARNOLD MORAWA

February 14, 1940 - February 9, 2024

Arnold Peter Morawa (Arnie) died peacefully at the age of 83 in San Diego, California. Despite his passing, he remains the undisputed champ, beating the odds with sheer will and fortitude, passing just before his 84th birthday. He also lived long enough to see the University of Michigan Football Team win a National Title which, as a Michigan Man, brought him great joy in early 2024.

Arnie was born at home in Detroit to his parents, Peter and Geraldine, followed soon thereafter by his brother Larry. His family moved out of the city to an oiled dirt road in a new subdivision of Dearborn, Michigan to their parents chagrin. Arnie’s dad, Peter, was a WW2 Vet, and worked various manufacturing jobs and eventually worked on the floor at Ford. This instilled a lifelong value of hard work, do-it–yourself attitude and competitive spirit that Arnie projected in everything he did from academics, dentistry, golf, sailing, pinochle, fishing and any other projects he touched.

Arnie graduated Valedictorian of Dearborn High School, where he also was Captain, First Team All State and a State Champion football player as well as a State Champion lettering in golf, beginning a lifetime love of the sport. He received and accepted a 4-year Ford scholarship to the University of Michigan where he was also on the golf team.

At U of M, Arnie joined Delta Upsilon, where he met many of his life long

friends and poured himself into academics. Although he never actually completed his Bachelor’s, as he began dental school after 2 and a half years, he did go on to earn a BS, DDS (‘64), MD (‘65), MS in Pediatric Dentistry (‘66), MS (‘68) and PhD in Anatomy and Cellular Biology (‘73) for anyone keeping score. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Gail, during her junior year. They fell in love with Ann Arbor and each other. After Gail graduated they were married in May of 1965.

Arnie and Gail stayed in Ann Arbor where he established the first pediatric dentistry practice in Ann Arbor and got to keep a close eye on all things sports-related with Michigan. While building his practice, he maintained close ties with Michigan Dental School, teaching clinical courses, taking on many leadership and administrative roles and eventually became Associate Dean of Development for the Dental School, leading fundraising for the renovation of the Dental School. He was also active with both the Michigan and the National American Dental Association throughout his career, contributing his time, expertise and enjoying making an impact wherever he could as well as meeting other dentists from across the U.S.

After settling in Ann Arbor, Arnie and Gail started a family. Anne was born in 1969 followed by twins, Matthew and Sarah in 1972. Family time meant many special trips with family and friends to Beaver Creek, Cayman Islands and other locations creating lifelong family stories and frequent trips to Europe with Gail to enjoy art, architecture along with good food and wine. But most

important to Arnie and Gail was time spent at Walloon Lake.

Arnie first became acquainted with ‘lake life’ at Portage Lake, where Gail’s family had a cottage. Eventually they settled on Walloon Lake and summers were never the same again. Walloon was the focal point of his golfing efforts (3 holes-in-one), his favorite fishing spots and his refuge. It was the creator of innumerable memories with family and friends, whether it was 4th of July celebrations, floatboat cruises, or sitting on the deck watching sunsets with a nice glass of wine while watching the grandkids jump on the raft.

After retirement, Arnie and Gail spent the warm Michigan summers in Walloon and spring and fall in their beloved Ann Arbor. In the winter months, they escaped to San Diego for some sunshine. They enjoyed many years together, traveling and visiting family and friends.

Arnie was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Geraldine Morawa, step mother Mary, and his wife, Gail Campell Morawa (2020). He is survived by his brother, Larry Morawa (Cindy); step-brothers Ted Sienkiewicz (Pam) and Jerry Sienkiewicz (Anne), daughter Anne Tadder (Jeff); granddaughters, Grace, Abby and Caroline Tadder, San Diego, CA; son, Matthew Morawa (Patricia); granddaughter, Avery Morawa; grandsons, William and John Morawa, New Canaan, CT; daughter, Sarah Harding (Robert); granddaughter, Malia; and grandsons Benjamin and Jack, Encinitas,CA .

He will be dearly missed by friends and family.

DONALD

Donald John Burkhardt, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather, passed away on January 23, 2024, just before celebrating his 80th birthday. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Bernadette “Bernadette” Burkhardt (nee Mary Bernadette Faubert), their children Don and Susan, his sister Ellen, a Dominican nun and his four grandchildren, Katie, Will, Sarah and Jacob. He was predeceased by his three elder siblings, William, Paul and JoAnn.

A devout Catholic, Don’s educational journey was a testament to his commitment to learning and faith. Starting at St. Mary’s Catholic Elementary School in New Baltimore, he later ventured to Framingham, Massachusetts, attending the Marist Junior Seminary for high school, fostering a deep connection with God that shaped his values throughout his life.

Upon completing high school, he returned to Michigan for undergraduate studies at the University of Detroit. His academic journey culminated in earning a DDS in Dentistry from the University of Detroit, laying the foundation for his distinguished career as a dentist in his hometown of New Baltimore.

Don was a beloved small-town dentist who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. Don’s dental practice, Anchor Bay Dental Associates, became a

cornerstone of the community, thriving under his leadership alongside friends and partners Joe Powers and Raymond McCracken. Patients adored him for his sense of humor, compassionate care and generosity.

Don’s tireless work ethic was truly remarkable and extended beyond his professional endeavors. Even on Christmas Day, a time for rest, he could be found diligently raking the beach - apparently all the other chores had been done. His dedication to hard work went beyond necessity – it reflected his commitment to excellence and a desire to make the most of every moment.

Don’s legacy is not just in his professional achievements but in the love, kindness, and faith he shared with family, friends, and the communities he served. His children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and in-laws adored him, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.

Don was an avid outdoorsman. He found joy in gardening, waterskiing, boating on Walloon Lake, and snowshoeing in Petoskey. His love for family was evident in the cherished moments spent skiing, boating, and fishing with his children and grandchildren.

Retirement allowed him to pursue passions like bridge at the Petoskey Bridge Club, an activity he enjoyed participating in with his beloved Bernadette, as well as community service, including volunteering at the local food pantry. Naples, Florida, provided respite from winter, but his heart remained

LEE H. GERY August, 1939 – August 3, 2023

Lee H Gery of Naples and Walloon Lake, MI, passed away on August 3, 2023 at the Georgeson Hospice House in Naples, FL. He was 83. He was born, August of 1939, in Indianapolis, IN to the late Ralph and Betty (Emmett) Gery.

Lee graduated from Park-Tudor School in Indianapolis and then attended and graduated from Northwestern University achiev-

ing his BS and MBA degrees. He was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He met his future wife, EIlis Kurtz at Northwestern and they were married in 1962 in her hometown of Bexley, OH. They made their home in Indianapolis where Lee was employed for 31 years with Eli Lilly and Company.

In 1999 they moved to Bonita Springs, FL and then to Naples, FL in 2015. They built a summer home on Walloon Lake, Ml in 1972-their favorite place with many fond family memories.

In Indianapolis Lee was a member of Second Presbyterian Church where he was

in Petoskey, surrounded by the beauty of sunsets over the lake and lush vegetation.

Don was a lifelong teacher, imparting wisdom through example. Whether it was involving kids and grandkids in chores like waxing boats or painting decks, he instilled the value of hard work and the knowledge of necessary life skills.

His love for sharing knowledge was evident in his habit of underlining important passages in books and passing them on to those he believed would benefit. Don recognized the wealth of knowledge he possessed and, with a generous spirit, aimed to ensure that his wisdom would continue to benefit and inspire future generations.

Don’s legacy extends through his son Don, a dentist (orthodontist) like his dad in Okemos, Michigan, and his daughter Susan, a dedicated lawyer in New York. His love, influence and guidance will forever be cherished by his four grandchildren: Katie, William, Sarah, and Jacob Burkhardt.

In a heartwarming moment of joy, Don had the privilege of witnessing his daughter Susan unite in marriage with Brad, the love of her life, this past October. Dapper in his tuxedo, Don, alongside his wife Bernadette, proudly walked Susan down the aisle, creating a cherished memory of love and family before his passing.

A man of wisdom, kindness, generosity and unwavering love, Don touched the lives of those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of family and friends, a testament to a life well-lived.

an Elder. There he and Ellis started the Great Banquet ministry. At First Presbyterian Church Bonita Springs he was also an elder and the two of them again started the Great Banquet ministry in Bonita Springs. He was a member of Woodstock Club (Indianapolis) and Walloon Lake Country Club (Ml).

Lee is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Ellis, and his daughter Shawn (David) of Noblesville, IN. Lee was preceded in death by his son Jim, survived by his daughter-in-Law, Lori Gery, of River Forest, IL and two grandchildren, Will and Lilah Gery and sister, Diann (Bob) Walker.

JOHN BURKHARDT February 15, 1944 – January 23, 2024

Russ Kittleson President

Marianne Barry Vice President

Marty Makinen Treasurer

Holly Angileri Secretary

Greg Adams

Jan Antalis

John Fettig

Bob Flynn

Mary Ellen Geist

Laurel McAteer

George Peck

Tom Saeli

Mary Ann Smith