Michigan Bean Festival
Remembrance Page
Don’t cry because it’s over; smile because it happened. – Dr. Seuss
This page is dedicated to those who have helped build this festival. These gentlemen have years of man power, and hours into this festival. They all had small town pride and each played a huge role into keeping this festival going. Here's to all of you!
Carl Childs
Carl Childs was a volunteer on the Michigan Bean Festival Committee for decades. He became involved beginning in the 1970s and continuously helped throughout the years. He was deeply involved in all aspects of running the festival – from behind the scenes to leading the way. He served on the board of directors and held several offices including Chairman more than once.Â
He would do whatever was needed. He served as electrician, helped with the truck and tractor pulls, car and combine demolition derbies, setting up the tents, bringing in bleachers, building the standalone bathrooms, helping with the golf outing, selling raffle tickets, helping with the chicken BBQ, the parade, and the crowning of the State of Michigan Bean Queen. But, most of all, he enjoyed sitting back – seeing all the people enjoy the activities happening on the fairgrounds while enjoying a cup of bean soup in the beer tent listening to a live band.
He worked with the carnival, organizations, businesses, volunteers, and community. He enjoyed brining everyone together every Labor Day weekend in the town of Fairgrove.
Richard "Dick" Prime
September 29th, 1943 - September 8th, 2015
Dick's journey with the Michigan Bean Festival began in the 1970's. He was an asset that brought much joy to all. You could find Dick involved with numerous events including, tractor pulls, Family Feud, The Newlywed games and so many more. Dick volunteered much time to his small town festival that he loved.  Dick also was the founder of the car show, which is now named after him as the Dick Prime Car Show. His commitment, volunteer hours will never go forgotten.
Clarence Patrick "Pat" Gibbard
Though not born and raised in the area, it wasn't long after Pat Gibbard moved here that he became a local. He was involved with several local organizations and was fiercely loyal and unfailingly generous to them. The Michigan Bean Festival was honored to be among them. Pat was not only a sponsor, but he helped obtain equipment for Motorsports, ran the car show after the passing of his friend and partner in crime Dick Prime, pulled the Queens float for the cheeseburger parade for many years, was our very own John Deere driving Easter bunny, enjoyed the bidding wars he created at the Annual pie auction and most importantly was always available to lend a hand, an ear or his shoulder. We are grateful for the time we had with him and we still feel his loss.
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