​Honoring My Grandfather:
A Legacy of Dedication and Service
Before I begin my story, I want to introduce you to one of the most influential figures in my life, my late grandfather, William 'Jim' Strehlow. A man of remarkable dedication, he lived through the Great Depression and served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. After the war, he pursued a bachelor's degree from Western Michigan University in 1949.
Upon graduation, he became a teacher and coach at Bangor Public Schools and then Bowen Station, now known as Kentwood Public Schools. During this time, my grandfather met the love of his life, Mary Jo Seckinger, and they were married on November 5, 1955.
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In the summer of 1958, he earned a master's degree at the University of Michigan and was hired as the first Director of Guidance for Parchment Public Schools that fall. My grandfather remained in Parchment, raised his family, and continued to work at Parchment High School for 28 years.
He was a founding charter member of the Teacher's Association, later becoming Parchment's teacher's union. His passion for sports and his dedication to the community was evident in his roles as the official scorekeeper for basketball games and head of the chain gang at football games for many years, which brought the community together.
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After retiring from Parchment High School in 1986, my grandfather began his second career as an admissions counselor at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. He had the opportunity to impact students at the beginning of their higher education journey and touched so many young lives.
He continued to advocate for children's rights by volunteering as a case advocate in the Kalamazoo County probate court's juvenile division. My grandfather dedicated many years to advocating for children, especially those from Kalamazoo's Northside. This was one of the most rewarding moments in his public service career.
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Many years ago, my grandfather established the Jim Strehlow Scholarship for graduating seniors of Parchment High School who live in the district and are eligible to attend Kalamazoo Valley Community College either part-time or full-time.
This scholarship, a testament to his enduring commitment to education, is awarded to students who have shown improvement in motivation and achievement in high school and have overcome adversity.
This scholarship, available through the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, has changed the lives of many students, inspiring them to strive for excellence.
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