10/01/2026
For the next 2 days we get to celebrate all things Kathy here as she retires this Friday after 9 years at both The Peasant’s Pantry and The Historian!
Where do I begin? At the start is the best choice. Nearly 9 years ago, this lovely lady came into my life because she was wondering what heck I was doing with this old building. I was outside planting flowers when she decided to “apply for a job” and chat with me. The Pantry hadn’t opened yet but we sat and talked for over an hour about my plans, our lives, and what I wanted to bring to this community. Having already been retired, I thought it was interesting that she would want to go back to work, but back to work she went. She accepted a part-time barista position (my first hire), and as they say, the rest is history. Or better yet…herstory.
Within a year, she rose from part-time barista to assistant manager to general manager. She executed flawlessly the compassion and drive needed in the hospitality business. When I closed the Pantry and opened the Historian, she became our Director of Operations, essentially running all facets of my businesses which now include Whittaker W**e Merchants in New Buffalo.
As I got pulled back into the kitchen as chef, Kathy became the face of the business. Folks knew that if they needed something fixed, something handled, or needed a message sent back to me, there was only one person who could get the job done. And that, my friends, is our dear Kathy.
For 9 crazy years, she has been our biggest cheerleader, our reminder to act with kindness and grace, and most importantly, our friend. Not every employee wants to sit and talk with an owner or manager, but our team finds comfort in Kathy’s ability to listen to every word and give advice when needed. Her kindness and wisdom towards all of us means everything and is not taken for granted. Our team, the ones who know, know Kathy is simply the best there is.
Personally, I have so much to say about this amazing woman. Kathy, your story is one of endurance, inspiration, and fierce determination. You are extremely tough when needed, passionate when expected, and loving all the time.
From the moment we met and chatted, and until this very day, you’ve never been my employee…you’ve been my friend. I’ve grown closer to you than most people in my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
For 9 years you’ve stood by my side and supported me. Every time I turned to my right, you were there ready to offer guidance, advice, and often times…a stern critique. All of which, I always needed.
You have spent your life working so hard. Raising 7 incredible sons and watching them raise over 20 of your beautiful grandchildren. That, my dear Kathy, is your legacy. The nurturing soul that guides them and keeps them safe.
Yet Kathy, what you’ve done for our staff, my businesses, and especially for me is also your legacy. It shows the world your grit and desire to be the best there is, and quite frankly, you’ve exceeded beyond all measure. Most importantly, you want nothing else than for those around you to also be the best they can be…and because of you, they are.
Kathy, my dear friend, I love you more than you’ll ever know. I’ve succeeded because of you. This community is a better place because you’re a part of it. And all of us, me, James, the entire staff at both The Historian and Whittaker W**e Merchants, and all of Harbor Country, wish you a most well-deserved retirement.
Now, I know you’ll be back to help on occasion, so folks will still see you, but just know you take with you so much respect, admiration, and love.
You are my everything, and always will be.
Enjoy this chapter. You’ve earned it.
With love,
Michael
