Have you ever wondered about the enormous Christmas tree that stands in front of our state capitol? This year’s story is especially touching. Join my husband, Chuck, and I as we follow the journey of this year’s state Christmas tree. Let’s begin in Onaway, Michigan which is located in the northeastern part of the lower peninsula.
Harvesting The Tree
the residents of Onaway, Michigan had gathered around their friend’s house on Main Street.
The community had intensely watched as the Ruppert’s tree was cut, lifted by crane and prepared for transport to our state capitol, Lansing.
Vic and Shirley Ruppert’s sixty foot spruce had been selected by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget as the Capitol’s Christmas tree. Vic had wanted to honor his late wife, Shirley, who’d passed away unexpectedly in September 2022.
The occasion was “kind of overwhelming,” Ruppert had said to Alpena reporter, Temi Fadayomi. “I usually don’t see this many people unless it’s the Fourth of July parade. So I was really pleased with the turnout.”
Shirley Ruppert
October 3, 1944 – September 26, 2022
Photo Credit: Chagnon Funeral Home
Shirley Mae Ruppert had been a shining star in her community alongside her husband, Victor, of nearly 47 years. Her main focus had always been her family. As her two sons married and their family legacy grew, Shirley enjoyed attending her six grandchildren’s events and activities. When two great grandchildren became part of the brood, she’d been overjoyed!
Shirley had been known for her thoughtful outreach of writing letters and sending cards to others. “In fact, she had stacks of cards at home, ready to send for any occasion.” She had also served as the membership chairman for the Black Lake Sportsman’s Club. Daily walks in the Onaway forest had been part of Shirley’s routine, too. She had loved to read and shop, especially at resale stores.
I could easily identify with Shirley’s devotion and kindness. I imagine she had touched so many lives with her thoughtful notes and dedicated service.
The massive tree had been harvested on October 26th. When it arrived in Lansing, local Boy Scout troops continued the tradition of untying the tree. Three city groups had worked to set up the evergreen in front of the capitol building. A lot of people have had a hand in securing Shirley’s tree in a place of honor.
Silver Bells In The City Celebration
We caught our first glimpse of the Ruppert’s tree from a block away. The Lansing streets were buzzing with energy as people had started setting up for the nighttime celebration, “Silver Bells In The City.”
Since 1987 Michigan’s State Capitol has organized a large fir tree lighting and a celebration called, “Silver Bells in the City.” The festivities have grown over these past 36 years. Vendors had lined Allegan Street selling goodies and snacks. As light faded from the day, people clustered along the fourteen block parade route, circling by the capitol.
on the Capitol grounds and nearby streets.
The Light Parade
This included Vic Ruppert and his family pulled by a brown horse!
Radio personalities announced the passing floats and bands.
Patiently Waiting
After Santa Claus, “Ho! Ho! Ho! ed” with a jolly wave, the crowd lifted their eyes to the quiet tree.
Lighting
As the music faded, the announcer called, “This is what we’ve been waiting for. . . Ten! Nine! Eight! . . .” In unison everyone joined in the countdown with growing anticipation. “. . .Three! Two! One!”
The densely lit tree shined brightly against the night. The golden bulbs glowed in a halo effect. It was dazzling!
Sing A Long
Faces illuminated by the golden hues radiated joy. Becoming one voice we all belted out Christmas songs led by Grace West. Chills zipped through me.
I glanced at the capitol’s elevated porch where several honored guests were watching the festivities with the governor. I hoped that Vic Ruppert and his kin could sense the magical awe being emitted from the crowd. Could he hear the booming of our songs? This tree had been a generous gift, reflecting Shirley’s shining kindness over the crowd.
Drone Light Show
A spaceship, a dragon and Santa’s sleigh danced above us on the inky canvas of the sky. The culmination statement with perfectly aligned letters boldly declared, “Lansing Silver Bells.” “I can’t imagine programming this!” I blurted to Chuck. Flashing drone designs were unlike anything I’d seen before.
Fireworks
The thunder of exploding fireworks punctuated the air as the celebration continued. I marveled at the work it has taken to organize “Silver Bells in the City.” Nice job, Lansing!
Ruppert Family
Thank you, Vic Ruppert, and your family for honoring Shirley with your spruce tree! It shined as I imagine Shirley once had, bringing light into the lives of many. Your gift had created unity to the people of our state. It was amazing to be part of this Christmas tree’s journey!
Resources:
Silver Bells In The City website
Michigan’s 2023 State Christmas Tree – MLive article
Alpena News article
Shirley Mae Ruppert Obituary
Lansing’s Forestry Team, City Hall, 124 W. Michigan Ave, Lansing 517-483-4000
Michelle Lange, Director, Michigan’s Department of Technology, Management and Budget 517-241-5545
