Rotary International (RI) is the parent organization of Rotary Clubs throughout the world. The purpose of Rotary International and individual Rotary Clubs, such as the Belleville Rotary Club, is to serve people and foster good will and understanding in their communities and worldwide. I know that sounds kind of idealistically vague, but Rotary Clubs across the world do so many different things in so many different ways that it's impossible to identify one or two things that represent the magnitude of service they perform. Members of Rotary Clubs, called Rotarians, are generally service minded men and women who are recognized as leaders in their professions and communities. Official descriptions of Rotary and its makeup can be found at rotary.org or in RI literature.
How did you become a Rotarian?
I was invited to consider Rotary by Rotarian Don Juchartz, attended a few meetings, was proposed for membership, and accepted.
Why did you become a Rotarian?
My home was in Sumpter, my church was in Waltz and my office was in Dearborn, so somewhat selfishly I looked at Rotary as an excellent opportunity to learn more about and become more active in my community, which I have always considered to encompass Belleville, Sumpter and Van Buren.
I was right about it too. Every week I could sit down to dinner with people of diverse backgrounds and professions who knew what was going on around the community and what it needed. Rotary's objective appeared to try to meet some of those needs.
How long have you been a Rotarian?
Just about 30 years.
Tell me a little about your personal background.
I grew up in a little town near Flint called Flushing. It's still a great place to live. I learned Civil Engineering at MSU and later received an MS in Engineering Mechanics, worked McDonnell Aircraft in St. Louis, and wound up an automotive design engineer at Ford for 35 years. I've been married to the high school class valedictorian and stained glass artist Diane for almost 45 years. Our two kids Steve and Beth were both Belleville High students. I've been active at St. John's Lutheran Church in Waltz since we joined in 1974. I retired from Ford in 2002, but have tried to keep active in other things.
What is your classification in Rotary?
Automotive Design Engineering
What sort of activities have you participated in as a Rotarian?
I have resisted the temptation to bore you with a laundry list of the scores of Rotary Club projects that have helped this community over the years. I think it's sufficient to say that
I have been privileged to support most club activities from the annual Strawberry Pancake Breakfast Fund Raiser to our Dictionary Project efforts for elementary school kids in the tri community. I do what I can do; just like all the other Rotarians.
What gives you the greatest satisfaction in being a Rotarian?
I am allowed to be part of an organization that does so much good for people worldwide.
Why type of person would want to become a Rotarian?
I think an aspiring Rotarian would be a woman or man who recognizes that they have been blessed in their lives and wants to give back to those less fortunate in educational or material opportunities. They should also welcome the fellowship and teamwork that is such a vital component of successful club operations.
What one thing do you think the community should know about the Belleville Rotary Club?
We are a diverse group of friendly people who want to serve the community and there may be a place for you in the group.
Who should someone contact if they are interested in more information about Rotary International and might be interested in becoming a member of the Belleville Rotary Club?
Any Rotarian would be happy to receive an inquiry, but Debbie Green our club president would probably be the most excited. Debbie can often be found at the Fred C. Fischer Library where she rules the roost. More info can best be found at the club website: www.bellevillerotary.org
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