The Otsego Community Foundation is proud to introduce the William “Bill” Wishart Fund, established in 2026 by Dona Wishart in memory of Bill and his deep love for the Gaylord community. This fund reflects who Bill was at his core—someone who cared deeply, showed up for others, and found real happiness in giving.
Bill’s story began in Flint, but northern Michigan is where his character and values took shape. After moving to Kalkaska as an elementary student, he entered the workforce at just 14 years of age and graduated from Kalkaska High School in 1957. His early job at Glen’s Market, working for founder C. Glen Catt, became a defining experience. What started with stocking shelves and carrying groceries grew into a mentorship that shaped Bill’s approach to work, people, and customer service. He carried forward a commitment to taking pride in whatever work he did and treating others well, principles that guided him throughout his life.
In the 1960s, Bill came to Gaylord at Mr. Catt’s request to help manage Vacationland Lanes, marking the beginning of what would become a lifelong connection to the community. He later continued his work with Glen’s Market, eventually becoming a store manager. Through these roles, he built community relationships that extended far beyond business—they became part of the fabric of his life.
Gaylord quickly became the place Bill felt most at home. From the early 1960s until 2023, he was a familiar face throughout the community, contributing his time and energy to the events and organizations that bring people together. One of his greatest passions was Alpenfest. From its earliest days—when it was first called Alpine Fest—Bill was involved. Over the next six decades, he gave countless hours to the festival, simply because he loved being part of it. In 2000, he was honored as Parade Marshal, a recognition for his many years of dedication to the community event and countless hours of service.
Bill also made a meaningful contribution through his involvement in local sports. He helped build the softball field behind what is now Pine Squirrel and spent many, many hours umpiring there. For 42 years, he served as a referee with the Michigan High School Athletic Association, connecting with generations of athletes, coaches, and fellow officials. Those experiences reinforced a belief he often shared with others—the importance of making friends across the generations — something he practiced naturally throughout his life.
His love for Gaylord eventually led him into public service as the Mayor of the City of Gaylord. It was a role that suited him well, allowing him to support the community, city staff, and the city’s future in a way that felt meaningful to him. He served until declining health required him to step away, but his enthusiasm for the city never faded. Bill had a way of reminding others how special Gaylord is, often asking, “Where would you rather live than right here in Gaylord, Michigan—the Alpine Village?”
One of the most meaningful ways to understand Bill is through the way he gave to others. His generosity was not reserved for large gestures—generosity was part of everyday life, and it brought him real happiness. Dona recalls a time when Bill won money through the lottery. Instead of holding onto it, he was eager to share it with family, friends, and projects that mattered to him. Those who received his gifts remember not just the generosity, but also witnessing the excitement he felt in giving. One of Bill’s favorite books, a children’s book with adult lessons, was The Giving Tree—a simple story that mirrors the way he approached life.
After Bill’s passing, Dona established the William “Bill” Wishart Fund to carry forward the things that mattered most to him. The fund will continue to support efforts connected to the City of Gaylord, local sports, Alpenfest, and other community initiatives—areas that brought meaning to Bill’s life and strengthened his connection to others. Dona’s hope is simple: to give a little in a way that helps a lot, creating positive impact while honoring Bill’s legacy.
Dona’s decision to create the fund with the Otsego Community Foundation was shaped by both trust and personal connection. Having mentored OCF Executive Director Dana Bensinger years ago through Leadership Otsego County, Dona has watched the organization grow and has confidence in its mission and stewardship. She values the reminder that every gift matters—big or small—and that each one contributes to something larger than itself.
For Dona, being a fundholder is about doing her part. Giving back has always felt like the right thing to do—something she and Bill both believed. As she reflects, “Giving back is important to me because it contributes to the ultimate goal of life—happiness.” Their shared commitment to community and generosity lives on through this fund, which stands as both a tribute and an invitation for others to be part of something meaningful.
Looking ahead, Dona hopes the fund will support opportunities that bring joy to people and will strengthen the community Bill loved so deeply. She is also grateful for the many friends and family members who continue to honor Bill through the stories they share and the memories of him they carry close at heart.
Two favorite quotes reflect the spirit that guided both Dona and Bill over their years together. Dona holds close the words, “The winds of grace are always blowing; it is for us to raise our sails.” Bill, in his own way, kept perspective simple and steady: “If it’s not life threatening, it doesn’t really matter!”
The William “Bill” Wishart Fund is more than a reflection of one life—it is a continuation of it. Through each act of generosity it supports, Bill’s spirit lives on in the community he was so proud to call home.
Those who wish to honor Bill’s remarkable legacy are invited to contribute to the William “Bill” Wishart Fund. Each gift, no matter the size, becomes part of the story Bill lived so well—a story of generosity, community, and making life a little better for others.
Click here to give online: https://godonate.akoyago.com/OCF/fund/william-%22bill%22-wishart-fund
