Louis Arthur Girard was born in Bay City, Michigan, on June 27, 1930 to Mammie (Jolly) Girard and Arthur Girard. Upon graduation from St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Bay City, Lou worked various jobs until he fulfilled his dream of joining the Michigan State Police in 1956. He served at the Pontiac, New Buffalo, and Grand Haven posts before transferring to Traverse City in 1969. Once he settled in his new home, he became active in the Barbershop Harmony Society, and enjoyed singing baritone in a barbershop quartet. Through his association with barbershop harmony, he met his wife, Mary Eileen (Ridolph) Folder who was active in the Sweet Adelines. The shared blending and harmonies of barbershop music brought them together. They were married on June 1, 1974.

Having retired in 1989 from the State Police Traffic and Safety Division, Lou accepted the request of Lt. Governor, Connie Binsfeld, to be her personal driver and security which he did for the next eight years.

Besides his wife of 45 years, Lou leaves behind sons Michael Girard of Georgia and Brian Girard of Traverse City, daughters Michelle (Rick) Tennis of Fenton and Angela Ward of Traverse City, grandchildren Matthew (Amy) Tennis and Nathan (Alecia) Tennis, both of Fenton area, Giavonna Ward and Bianca Temple both of Traverse City, and three great-grandchildren.

Lou was the youngest of six siblings: Gerald Girard and Geraldine DePeal (twins); Kathryn (Jerry) Myslewski, and Donald Girard all of whom are deceased. Donald's twin sister, Donalda Laisure, resides in Essexville, MI.

He loved to sail and owned his own sailboat. He enjoyed playing cards, and his monthly poker club. Cross-country skiing with his family was a winter past-time. He enjoyed music and often would play the piano by ear, singing along for his own enjoyment.

He was a lifetime member of the T.C. Elks Lodge in which he started as their soloist and in 1986 became Exalted Ruler. His proudest memory of that time was taking his Ritual Team all the way to the National Ritual Team competition.

Lou was very proud and supportive of his family's activities, and only his work schedule ever kept him from being in attendance. His family misses his caring, willingness to help, and fun-loving ways. His sense of humor was never more evident than when he and Eileen were entertaining friends and family, something Lou enjoyed as much as he loved sailing.

In keeping with Lou's wishes, cremation has taken place and a funeral will be held Saturday, August 24. There will be an announcement of arrangements at a later date.

Those wishing to give memorials in his name may direct them to Immaculate Conception Sanctuary Remodel, 308 N. Cedar St., Traverse City, MI 49684.

Lou and his family are in the care of the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Kindly share a memory of Lou at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .