Karen Klenke takes Golden K on a ‘walk in the park’
Joanne Lindholm photo BILL ROBERTS, Golden K chair, introduces Karen Klenke of the Niagara Area Historical Society.
KINGSFORD — Milder temperatures were appreciated as the Golden K gathered on Monday morning for their weekly meeting.
Bill Roberts called the meeting to order. Alyce Derwinski tickled the ivories, as Dan Pedo led the singing of some special golden oldies, “Seems Like Old Times,” “Sentimental Journey” and “Smiles.”
The welcome song greeted guests Karen Klenke, Judy Sanicki, Kathy Arnold and Aiden Wilson.
Orice Walters, a long-time member of Golden K, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 18, and “Auld Lang Syne” was sung for her.
Roberts read the thought for the day, a quote from Anton Chekhov, “People don’t notice whether it’s winter or summer when they’re happy.”
Aiden Wilson, grandson of Bill Roberts, was recognized for his upcoming 15th birthday. Wilson joined the meeting, as he is working toward a Boy Scout badge.
Healing prayers were offered for those members on sick call.
Pat Polzin happily collected her winnings from the Pot of Gold drawing. Gary Proudfit read the Happy Dollar messages. Kathy Jo Anderson was happy for her granddaughter’s successful surgery and she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Wendy Mulka talked with Wilson about Scouts and liked getting to know him. Alyce Derwinski was happy for all the Detroit Lions fans and on that same topic, Bill Roberts was happy the Lions won more playoff games in the last two weeks than in the last 66 years.
Members were reminded of the Valentine’s party for special needs children on Feb. 12.
John Aune is the chairman for February and would appreciate any assistance with finding speakers.
Roberts introduced Karen Klenke, a member of the Niagara Area Historical Society.
Klenke is actively working on a project that is dear to her heart and took members on a “walk in the park.”
Many years ago, Klenke purchased property at the corner of Quincy and Jefferson streets in Niagara, Wis. At the time, she used the “park” for her photography sessions and continued to develop the little area. She acquired an old shed from the local farmer who was selling the property, which housed his little farm kitty cornered from the park.
Over time, Klenke has had many people come into her life and help her with her vision. She has had a small pond dug and benches made from cleared trees to adorn the land.
In recent years, Klenke has given the “park” to the Historical Society for the further development of a historical park.
She truly believes that if you pay attention and follow through on your dreams, they will happen. Many generous people are helping her realize her dream.
Klenke’s daughter, Jill, passed away this past year and says she finds that a walk through the park gives her peace and serenity. Her hope is that many others will find comfort in the area as well.
They plan to have a park dedication in the spring.
Other features in the planning stages are a water feature in the pond and a wheelchair-accessible sidewalk so residents from Maryhill Manor and others with mobility issues can enjoy the park.
Golden K meets at 10 a.m. every Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome.




