Denise Fate

“I love the natural beauty of Northern Michigan, the four seasons, and abundant outdoor activities, especially golf,” explains Denise Fate. “Charlevoix is a very special and particularly scenic place with a highly interesting and storied past.”

Denise and her husband Gary had careers in southeast Michigan but retreated to Charlevoix on weekends and vacations for more than ten years. Following Denise’s retirement in 2008, they relocated to Charlevoix to live here full-time.

After leaving a successful career as an automotive executive, Denise had skills, time, and proximity to offer. “I was able to get involved with organizations that matched my interests as a way to meet people, stay productive, and contribute to the community and culture that I enjoy so much,” shared Denise. For over a decade, Denise led the Charlevoix Historical Society as the Board President. During that time, several important projects were completed, thanks to her focus and strategy: renovation of the historic Train Depot, cataloging thousands of images to preserve them and make them available to the public, the restoration of the Charlevoix lighthouse, and more. “It is very important to me to give back as I am able and invest in the things I care about for the long-term,” she says. This includes the history of the area and the important, treasured historic structures in Charlevoix that will receive annual support through a fund Denise established to benefit the Charlevoix Historical Society.  

Always thorough and strategic, Denise also included the Community Foundation in her future plans. “Giving and leaving a lasting legacy is gratifying. I know that my resources will be responsibly utilized to meet the needs of the community,” Denise says. “I trust the C3F to put the money to best use in the areas I care about most – protecting the environment to sustain the natural beauty of the area and responding to the needs of future generations in this community I care about so deeply.”

What will your legacy be?  Learn more about how to leave a legacy through the Community Foundation.