Meet the grounds committee

Bonnie Trottier has always been interested in volunteering her time for the betterment of her community. She is active in her church, the Boy Scouts of America and the Carlson HS Marching Band. Working as a volunteer with Boy Scout Troop 1234, she caught the Fort Wayne Coalition ‘bug” when she attended the Fall 2007 Boy Scout Camp-o-ree held at the Fort. Realizing her skills and background, she knew she had a lot to offer the Historic Fort Wayne Coalition. A mother of twin daughters, and a son, an Eagle Scout, her family spends countless volunteer hours working at the Fort, restoring its historical significance in Southwest Detroit. She works for the Gibraltar School system and with the Huron-Clinton Metro Parks. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and canning, home repairs and bike riding.

Since his childhood, Ronald Vilag has always been interested in early American history and the US Civil War. Joining the HFWC and being at the Fort Wayne gives him a unique opportunity to “touch” this golden period of time. As the past Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 1234 and current BSA District Roundtable Commissioner, Ronald attended the Fall 2007 Boy Scout Camp-o-ree at the Fort and was immediately captured by its awe and grace. Always the helper, Ronald joined the Coalition and offered his services where needed. In the past he has volunteered with EMU Foundation, AYSO Soccer, Little League Baseball, Detroit Diesels Football, Carlson HS Marching Band, Boy Scouts of America, and the Order of the Arrow, earning several distinguished awards and recognition. Employed in Finance and Accounting and married for 25 years, he is the father of three boys, all Eagle Scouts. Working at the Fort gives him a feeling of accomplishment and knowing that we are saving Detroit’s hidden jewel for future generation.