In 1979, Richard Spray drove down Biological Road for the first time. Though he grew up in Cheboygan County, he was not familiar with the University of Michigan-owned field station on the southern shores of Douglas Lake. But he had just enrolled in a government program that offered work experience to young people, and was eager to check out his assignment.
Forty-one years later -- as he prepares for a well-earned retirement -- one could say it was a good fit for both parties.
Since those early days, Spray, UMBS Building and Facilities Supervisor, has been the go-to guy in times of fire, flood, and unnatural disaster of all varieties. “The most important thing is knowing where the shut-off valves are!” he says.
Associate Director Karie Slavik professes to have made many a distress call to Spray throughout the years. ”I especially appreciate Richard’s calm and steady approach to all camp emergencies big and small, new and old!”
In addition to keeping the gears in motion at camp, Spray is known for his good natured teasing. Maintenance Supervisor Renee Kinney can vouch. For years, she has worked alongside Spray and UMBS’s recently retired Facilities Manager, Tony Sutterley. She is an appreciator (and often recipient) of Spray’s unique brand of humor.
“I always loved working with Tony and Richard. Tony was like my big brother. And Richard was like the big brother I never wanted!” she laughs. “I’ll really miss him dearly. He’s a great friend.”
For the past six months, Spray has been transferring his vast bank of UMBS knowledge to his successor, Eareckson Myers. Myers, who grew up in and around UMBS as a “camp kid”, expresses deep gratitude for Spray’s mentorship and expertise.
“Looking back to when I was a camp kid following Richard around, I realize just how lucky I am to have had such a wonderful mentor and role model,” says Myers. “He can always be counted on for a laugh, bits of wisdom, and a wealth of knowledge. Thank you, ‘Wichard’, for all that you have taught me and for making UMBS what it is today.”
As for Spray himself, he maintains that working at UMBS has been “like working with family.” He promises to come around for the occasional coffee break, but is looking forward to more time with family, friends, and the great outdoors.
“And more time for hunting and fishing!” he says with a smile.
