By Sterling McGinn
Joe Villemure was born and raised right here in Newberry, and for most of his life, has been serving his fellow residents. Elected as the McMillan Township clerk in 1974, he has held that position for 47 consecutive years.
Joe was born to Joe Sr. and Alma Villemure, and is one of 13 children. During his youth, sports were his main activity. He played baseball and youth hockey.
He attended school in Newberry, and graduated from Newberry High School (NHS) in 1951. During his high school career, Joe excelled in basketball, baseball, and football. He was a member of the three-year undefeated NHS football team coached by Morley Fraser.
Following graduation, he furthered his education at Sault Tech (now Lake Superior State University) and Albion College. At Sault Tech, Joe played basketball, before transferring to Albion College. He played football at Albion with former NHS teammates Jack Taylor and Don McIntrye. The Albion football team was coached by Joe’s former NHS coach, Morley Fraser.
He returned to Newberry and worked for Knauf Motors and Teske-Rapp Motors.
He is a member of the Luce County Economic Development Corporation board, and a member of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church.
Joe married Carol (nee) Vincent and the couple had six children. “We have a lot of grandchildren, and great-grandchildren,” said Joe. “I have a super, super wife, and I have had a great life. The only bad thing is, I am starting to feel my age.”
Joe and two of his fellow classmates recently met at Timber Charlie’s for an unofficial 70th NHS class reunion.
Joe said he loves Newberry and that it was an excellent place to raise a family. “That’s why I stayed there,” he declared.
