Goodland
Have you seen the cool Easter eggs hanging in the trees along the bicycle path along Goodland Drive heading into Goodland? If not, go see!
Every year along the bicycle path in Goodland, colorful Easter eggs mysteriously appear, sparking curiosity and wonder among the visitors. The story behind these eggs is one of love, loss, and community spirit.
Carolyn and Richard Roth, longtime residents of Goodland, have endured their fair share of hardships. Both had children from previous marriages, and tragedy struck twice in April, a month marked by sorrow for the couple. Carolyn’s daughter Mary Beth died in a car accident at 17, followed two years later by Richard’s daughter Pam, who took her own life at 20. The Roth family struggled through grief, seeking solace in a change of scenery.
In 1983, they found themselves drawn to the tranquility of Goodland after stumbling upon sailing lessons advertised in the area. They sold their belongings and spent four years living on a sailboat, finding temporary respite from their pain.
Eventually, they had to return to Michigan temporarily to handle financial matters, but Goodland had left an indelible mark on their hearts. In 2000, they purchased a cottage in Goodland, becoming active members of the community. Carolyn, with her warm demeanor and tireless volunteer work, endeared herself to many, including Betty Bruno, a prominent figure in Goodland’s history.
Betty Bruno had advocated for a bike path along Goodland Road before her passing, and her dream was realized in 2002, though she never got to see it. Inspired by Betty’s legacy, Carolyn saw an opportunity to honor her daughter Mary Beth’s memory. Mary Beth, born on Christmas and tragically passing away on Easter Sunday, found her tribute in the stars and Easter eggs that began adorning the bike path in 2003.
Initially, Carolyn and Richard hung the stars and eggs themselves, quietly commemorating their loved ones. Over the years, however, the community rallied around them. In 2016, when Carolyn’s health declined, Goodlanders stepped in to help. Despite setbacks like Carolyn’s stroke and Hurricane Irma, the tradition persisted, a testament to the resilience and compassion of the community.
In 2017, after Irma destroyed the Easter eggs, the Drop Anchor Mobile Home Park community rallied to replenish them, ensuring that Carolyn’s memorial remained intact. With their dedication and generosity, they not only restored the eggs but also uplifted spirits in the wake of disaster.
Today, Carolyn no longer worries about the fate of her beloved memorials. The community has embraced her, ensuring that her tradition of remembrance lives on. In Goodland, the Easter eggs along the bicycle path symbolize not just the arrival of spring but also the enduring bonds of love and support that unite neighbors and friends.
