"We are extremely proud and honored to award two individuals for their exceptional achievements after graduation. Each honoree has gone above and beyond in their chosen fields. They have earned significant distinctions and given back to their communities," written in a statement by the Alumni Association for the award presentations.
Eavey was honored in the area of community and public service. Eavey served in the Korean War from 1953-1955 and was honored as the Veteran of the Year in 2016 by the Middleville Veterans Committee. After his time in the military, he returned to Middleville and served as a volunteer fireman, first responder and service photographer for the Thornapple Township Emergency Services. In 1996, he was elected as a Thornapple Township trustee and served the community in that capacity for two decades. He was instrumental in ensuring that every veteran grave has an appropriate marker.
Eavey was also a founding member of the Thornapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission. He and his wife volunteered at the Middleville United Methodist Church, Middleville Food Pantry, Barry County Cares Board and the National Parks Services. In September 2017, he was honored by the Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation and named the Hometown Hero.
Gibson was honored for leadership in the area of agriculture and education. He has devoted his life to agriculture and has a distinguished career in education. After graduating from TK in 1960, he went on to earn his bachelor's, masters and doctorate degrees from Michigan State University. After getting his start in Pewamo-Westphalia School District as an educator and FFA chapter advisor, Gibson moved forward as a faculty member and administrator at the University of Minnesota-Waseca. He served as President and CEO of the Wisconsin Agribusiness Council and was the Senior Regional Director for the National FFA Foundation in Madison, Wisconsin. He was also the Education Director for Agriculture and Natural Resources at Wisconsin Technical College and served as Executive Director of the Minnesota Agricultural Interpretive Center.
Gibson has received several outstanding service awards. Throughout his exceptional career and association with many organizations, his peers have noted his dedication, determination and passion. He has inspired the minds of generations of students and adults to keep building the agriculture tradition and economy of the Midwest.
The Alumni Association is seeking nominations for future distinguished alumni honorees. Applications can be found at www.tkschools.org under the alumni tab.