Dewey's Graduation Party

I don't care for the connotation of the word retirement, so I have been referring to my leaving the professional Scouting ranks as Graduation. I also was not eager to have a farewell party since I will be staying in the area and active in Scouting. However, some of the volunteers insisted that something be done. Barb Dupras explained that there needed to be an event to bring "closure" to my time as Scout Executive.

However, the event turned out to be very gratifying for me and everyone seemed to enjoy getting together. And it brought closure.

The most gratifying part of the event was the result of an idea Susan presented to the committee: People were encouraged to do a "Good Deed" in my honor and Susan and Angela compiled these into a book. There we about 75 responses. I was moved by these good deeds and the comments that accompanied them.

It was also gratifying for so many Scouting and community friends to make the effort to be with us, especially James and Amy McClellan and their kids who drove up from Ann Arbor.

Angela was the designated photographer, but did not get everyone. However, she captured the spirit of the event.

Thanks to all who attended and the many others who sent cards, emailed, called, or expressed appreciation in person during the past few weeks. And thanks to the Graduation Party committee, Barb Dupras, Marv and Lois Gibson, Joe and Sue Erickson, Heather Carroll, and Susan Jones.

As I said at the party, it has been a privilege to be able to serve as the Scout Executive of the Hiawathaland Council and to support the great volunteers in the Upper Peninsula.





Thanks to Erinn Fetterman Swan for baking the cake and all the others who provided a hearty luncheon.




A display of my Scouting highlights.

Susan who has been supportive in all ways at all times.

Daughter Beth, Stuart, Martha and Whitney Johnson, and Robert Blotter.

Andrew's wife Sabrina on the left with grandson Austyn across from her. The sister missionaries in the foreground.

Lois Gibson sets out the grub.

Past Council President Dave Schaaf, Bill Huebler, and Mark Stauber on the left.

State Representative Steve Lindberg presented a resolution from the State Assembly signed by him, State Senator Tom Casperson, and Governor Snyder.

Mayor pro tem Johnny DePetro and City Manager Bill Vadja presented a certificate from the City of Marquette. Johnny also represented the Vietnam Veterans of America and presented a certificate. I had worked with them intensively last spring on the memorial for Gary Lee, an Eagle Scout from Kingsford who was killed in action in Vietnam.

Commander Gary White of the Lyons Camp of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War presented a colorful certificate. I have been a member of the camp for about 10 years and plan to be more active in the future.

American Legion Post Commander Mike Tricky presented a certificate from the Post. I helped with their Veteran's Memorial Project in 2001.

Fellow Wood Badger and Fox Patrol member, Sharon "Granny Fox" Vierk drew a beautiful fox on wood as a remembrance of our Wood Badge experience.

Marv Gibson presented a nice plaque from the National Guard.

A real surprise was the presentation of an honorary St George Award from the Marquette Diocese. It is the Catholic Church recognition for adults and can be awarded to non-Catholics. Barb Dupras and Dave Jenner made the presentation.

Marv Gibson presents a walking stick.

Thanks from Bishop Robert Blotter of the Marquette Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Kind works from Joe Erickson, retired Senior District Executive and trusted colleague for 14 years.

Recognizing Susan for her unfailing support throughout my career.

Reflecting on my tenure as Scout Executive.

With Whitney Johnson, Council President when I hired in back in 1996.

With Ethan's dad, Chuck Rayhorn.

Angela's kids Ben, Caleb, and Anna with their Grandma Rayhorn.

Susan with her folks, Jerry and Ginny LaJoice.

With grandson Hudson, Andrew's boy.