By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
On Friday, April 25, Ransom District Library, in partnership with the City of Plainwell, will celebrate “the beauty and importance of trees” with an Arbor Day ceremony beginning at 3 p.m.
In addition to the City handing out seedlings to the first 50 attendees, the ceremony will also include a tribute to E.J. Hart, the longtime Plainwell businessman who passed away last April.
Hart, who owned Hart’s Jewelry, was heavily involved in the community, sponsoring many events and volunteering in various capacities.
Hart’s daughter, Erin Bolda, said her family is grateful to the city and Ransom for recognizing her father in this way.
“It brings us joy that he is being honored by the city he loved, even after his passing,” Bolda said.
According to Bolda, Hart’s strong sense of community service came from his desire to foster a welcoming environment for everyone.
“My dad didn’t really talk with us about his motivations,” she said. “He tended to just quietly do the things he did because he felt that they were important for his community.
“E.J. wanted all members of his community to feel a sense of belonging. He felt very proud to particpate in events and committees that would increase opportunities for those that live in his community.”
Bolda said Hart’s legacy will continue to live on through his family members and the community. That includes Hart’s grandson—and Bolda’s son—Ethan, who continues to work at Hart’s Jewelry and plans to take over running it.
“When we reflect back on my dad’s life, it serves as an example of the power of putting down roots in our own communities, creating relationships with others and taking meaningful action in the causes that mean so much to us,” Bolda said.
“He appreciated the efforts of other community members in their pursuit of continuing to help the community grow and prosper. He would hope his legacy would be to inspire others to give where you can, participate in opportunities that help you grow as a human and to live a life of integrity.”
