HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) — Former state lawmaker Patty Birkholz has died.
The Saugatuck Republican served as a state representative from 1997 to 2002 and went on to two Senate terms, from 2003 to 2010. She later served at the Office of Great Lakes’ director.
Gov. Rick Snyder called her a “tireless and highly regarded advocate for Michigan and our lakes.”
She’ll be remembered for her efforts behind the Great Lakes Compact, holding off invasive species, creating the Recreation Passport, and dozens of policies related to hunting, fishing and protecting natural resources.
Michigan United Conservation Clubs officials named Birkholz 2004 Legislative Conservationist of the Year and in a Facebook post on her death remembered her as “a great champion for conservation.”
Birkholz was known affectionately as “Purple Patty,” a color. Her successor, 24th District, Sen. Rick Jones told MIRS News, she wore in memory of the love of her life, who died suddenly.
Holland resident J.R. Valderas recalls meeting her when he was a newspaper photographer, especially “watching her cut the ribbon for the new Alumni Hall at Fennville High School (her alma mater) over a decade ago.”
Allegan County Clerk Bob Genetski recalled being scolded by Birkholz while he was a freshman state representative. Since everyone knew where they stood with her, he said, communication could be more open.
Genetski said her legacy is in such work as preserving part of the McClendon property as a natural resource, so generations to come can enjoy West Michigan’s nature beauty.
