Dan and Martha Mishler

When Dan and Martha Mishler retired (the first time), Lake Charlevoix brought them here.  They moved here full time in 2005 from Hartland, where Dan taught chemistry and Martha taught second grade.  “We bought our first cottage on Lake Charlevoix in 1989, sold that in ’95 and bought the lot where we built our current cottage with our own hands – it was a ‘labor of love’ type of effort for sure,” shares Martha.  Dan proudly notes that they did all the work themselves with the exception of the “stone fireplace, the foundation, the drywall, the countertops, and the shingles.”

As teachers, they were very dedicated to their students: “we grew used to doing what needed to be done for the kids and that habit of giving time and attention persists,” explains Dan.  He is very involved with the Lake Charlevoix Association, where he can put his education in aquatic biology to good use.  Martha is an active Rotarian in Boyne City, a busy real estate agent, and a lover of companion pets.

When they’re not attending to those commitments, the pair enjoys sharing their “paradise” with their family, spending time with their wonderful community of friends, sailing in the summer, and many outdoor activities in the winter.  “We love all seasons,” says Martha, “and there is something special about each of them here in northern Michigan.”  When asked why they decided to give back through an estate gift to the Community Foundation, Martha explained: “It’s our home.”  “I agree,” notes Dan, “Even though we haven’t always lived here, this is our home.”  By including the Community Foundation in their estate plan, Dan and Martha Mishler will help local people, protect the environment, and provide for animals close to home.

Learn more about how to Leave a Legacy with the Community Foundation.