Meet Laurel Van Auken of Michigan
Laurel Van Auken
Gail's Daughter
My full-time job is working at a logistics company in the parts department. I also work part-time at a bakery. I am also a paid-on call firefighter with Saugatuck Township Fire Department. All of which keep me busy, and I could not imagine doing anything else with life right now. Any free time I do have, I do shower my dog, Jameson, with as much attention as I can. It’s not unusual to take a Saturday road trip to Northern Michigan and find some hiking trails to enjoy with him.
- My Passion: My biggest passion in life is to simply be ready to help others when I can. I love being involved with my community and supporting my family and friends in whatever they may need. Getting involved in fire prevention with my department is a huge goal I would like to accomplish this year. It was something my parents were passionate about, as well as my sister. It would be amazing to continue with that legacy.
- I like camping, hiking, fishing, anything to do outdoors, I’m in! If I'm not outside, I’m usually reading something by Nicholas Sparks. Currently that is his newer book, Dreamland. Cannot get enough of it! If I’m not reading, I'm usually doing some sort of crafts at home; making home decor or centerpieces. I do like to binge on some older tv shows occasionally. Currently that is, Bones.
- Pets: Dog Jameson and Cat Arson
- My Favorite Color: Burgundy, teal, and dark greens
- My Favorite Food: Pickles! Or anything to do with seafood.
- I've been involved with these NFFF Programs:
- Through a New Lens
- Grief in Progress Podcast
- Wellness Conferences
- National Fallen Firefighters Memorial
I strive to embody my Mom's empathy and humility. My mother was someone who knew how to approach anyone with empathy, despite how hard it might have been for her. She knew how to set aside her needs and focus on others. I can only pray to be as good as she was at taking away others' pain and hurt and giving them hope. Even at the darkest moments in their lives, she gave them a light to focus on.
Meet Carole Chisholm of Michigan
Carole Chisholm
Gail's Sister
I am a licensed master level social worker and co-own a multidisciplinary mental health practice, Claystone Clinical Associates, PLC. I have worked with this group of clinicians for the past 25 + years. I also teach part time for Western Michigan University in the graduate social work department. My volunteer work is with CoreHealth as an eucharistic minister, West Michigan Therapy Dogs with Chewbacca (she is a therapy dog and we volunteer many places in Grand Rapids where dogs make a difference), and Senior Neighbors, Inc., helping with fundraising and development.
- My Passion: Health is a big thing for me and I love learning and teaching about health. I love music, both playing and listening. Outreach of any kind is an opportunity I actively watch for. If I can make a difference in someone’s life, I feel I might be making a difference in the world.
- Hobbies: I belong to a book club and we are reading the Thursday Murder Club Series right now. I am also reading Corporate Rebels. I am enjoying the Yellowstone shows for TV watching. I mostly like to be active and outside. Chewbacca loves long walks and playing catch in the backyard. I play the piano regularly. I love spending time with the granddaughters and get to hang out with Lucia several times during the week. We love games, walks, puzzles, and music.
- Pets: Therapy Dog Chewbacca (a 6 year old goldendoodle)
- My Favorite Color: Red
- My Favorite Food: Seafood
- I've been involved with these NFFF Programs:
- Siblings Retreats
- Wellness Conferences
- Grief in Progress Podcast
- Virtual Workshops
I strive to give to others in a way that will make a difference, as Gail would.
Overisel Township Fire Department (MI)
Age: 41
Date of Death: November 2‚ 2000
Gail Lynne Van Auken‚ 41‚ a four-year volunteer with the Overisel Township Fire Department‚ died on November 2‚ 2000‚ in a motor vehicle accident while responding to a fire call. She was a teacher’s aide and taught a fire prevention program that she had developed.
My mother was the best person to talk to when you needed to smile or laugh. She always knew the right, goofy thing to say or do! When it came to making sure others were happy, she was on it. She was not afraid to be silly! In fact, I would say she thrived on it. She was also a fierce protector when it came to her family. She would also never turn down an opportunity to watch a scary movie or to tell scary stories to her kids, nieces, and nephews.
Gail was my younger sister and childhood playmate. She was always full of life and willing to help others. She had a big heart and loved life. She has four children, and we have been blessed to be aunts to these four amazing people. My heart breaks thinking about how sad she would be about leaving her children so early in life. Our family wants the four children to feel as much family love as we can give them to make up for some of what they lost losing their mom.
