Senator Johnson offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 85.

            A resolution memorializing the life of Bertha A. Daubendiek.

            Whereas, It is with deep respect and sorrow that we offer this resolution as a memorial honoring the extraordinary accomplishments and life of a true pioneer in land preservation, Bertha A. Daubendiek. With her tragic passing, the state of Michigan has lost a lifelong champion of the environment; a courageous and selfless activist; and a dynamic role model whose legacy will never be forgotten. To her two brothers, Gene and Joe, as well as her sister Ruth and numerous nieces and nephews, we offer this expression of our respect and admiration for the gifts she shared with the people of our state; and

            Whereas, Bertha A. Daubendiek was born in Arthur, Montana, on January 31, 1916. Bertha grew up on a Montana homestead and farm in Iowa until the fifth grade. After graduating from Grinnell College in Iowa, with the honor of Phi Beta Kappa in 1936, she moved to Michigan. It was here where Bertha dedicated her talents, charisma, and tenacity to protecting and preserving Michigan’s natural treasures, and as a result of years of hard work, has forever etched a mark in our state’s great history; and

            Whereas, In 1952, Bertha co-founded the nonprofit, Michigan Nature Association (MNA), the state’s oldest land preservation organization. Under Bertha’s vision and leadership, the MNA has evolved into one of the most effective and impressive nature groups in the state, protecting more than 8,000 acres of land in 162 nature sanctuaries across Michigan; and

            Whereas, Bertha has been bestowed with a plethora of honors for her years of selfless service, including Outstanding Michigan Volunteer of the Year, 1974, by Governor Milliken; honored as Michiganian of the Year, 1979, by The Detroit News; and received an honorary Doctor of Science in 1987 from Adrian College. She is listed in Who’s Who of American Women. Perhaps her most distinguished honor of all, in 1994, Bertha was inducted into the Women’s Hall of Fame in the Achievement of Environment; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we offer words of praise and gratitude as a memorial honoring the life and spirit of Bertha A. Daubendiek. Her unapologetic dedication to preserving Michigan’s landscape and countless environmental accomplishments shall serve as a constant reminder of how indebted our great state is to this fearless leader, activist, and heroine; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Daubendiek family as well as the Michigan Nature Association as a reflection of our condolences.