Echoes of the Willow

By Michelle Allen

Michelle Allen is a community storyteller dedicated to preserving the history and charm of Hesperia. Learn more at www.echoesofthewillow.com

Newfield Township is more than just a place on a map—it is a community shaped by dedication, progress, and deep-rooted history. With its rich heritage and natural beauty, the township thrives under the guidance of leaders like Joan David, whose commitment to service goes beyond policy. Her work is rooted in preserving Hesperia’s identity, honoring its past, and fostering the meaningful connections that sustain its growth and sense of belonging.

A Lifetime of Dedication to Hesperia

For Joan, leadership has always been about consistency and lasting impact. Before stepping into local government, she spent over 39 years working at Hesperia Community Schools, where she coached for 16 years, served on the PTA for 20 years, and developed initiatives like Responsible Thinking Classroom (RTC) and Positive Behavior In Schools (PBIS) for 23 years. “As you can see, I stick with things once I get started,” she says with determination.

Her transition into township leadership began in 2007, when Newfield Township residents encouraged her to consider running for a Trustee position. After attending board meetings, she realized she could make a difference and ran for the seat in 2008—winning the election.

Four years later, the Township Supervisor approached her with a request: Run for my position, help lead this township forward. Joan considered it but first asked the Supervisor to mentor her for another term, ensuring that she could step into the role with confidence. By November 2016, she ran and won, officially becoming Newfield Township Supervisor, a position she continues to hold today.

Transforming Newfield Township: Growth & Service

Under Joan’s leadership, Newfield Township has flourished. Roads have improved—now, nearly 90% of them have been upgraded. New businesses have emerged, strengthening the local economy. Thanks to a grant written by Clerk Nancy Conley, the township established a clean recycling center. The community also benefits from generous local businesses, including one that donates a living Christmas tree to the Township Hall each year and another that provides free Thanksgiving turkeys to residents.

Her mission remains clear: To ensure that all township officials act fairly, transparently, and in the best interests of the people.

A Township Intertwined with History

Newfield Township’s legacy is deeply connected to the White River and Michigan’s lumber boom. When a sawmill was built in 1866, it laid the foundation for what would become the village of Hesperia, marking the start of a thriving timber industry that shaped the entire Oceana County region.

The Hesperia Dam, a landmark in the township, brings anglers from near and far, particularly during Steelhead and Salmon fishing seasons. As fishing thrives, local businesses—from the Sport Shop to restaurants—see increased visitors, reinforcing the link between natural resources and economic stability.

Several beloved lakes make up the township’s landscape:

✔ McClaren Lake, Blodgett Lake, Campbell Lake, and Hightower Lake offer recreation opportunities

✔ Blodgett Lake holds a deep-rooted legend—many years ago, a wagon and horses broke through the ice, never to resurface

✔ Oxbow Park, donated by Terry and Jan Herin, serves as a recreational space for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and visitors

✔ Hightower Lake features a boat launch, picnic benches, and swimming areas

Honoring Veterans: The Hightower Lake Veteran’s Memorial Garden

Among the spaces that carry profound meaning is Hightower Lake’s Veteran’s Memorial Garden, envisioned and created by Brian and Melody Sukup.

Inspired by their daughter, Heather—a former Army Medic—Melody and Brian wanted a space that honored all service members, past, present, and fallen. What began as a small tribute grew into something much larger, supported by community donations, hard work, and a steadfast commitment to remembrance.

✔ A memorial board displays veterans’ names

✔ A flag flies high above the garden

✔ Flowers bloom vibrantly each season

✔ A newly added bench and trellis provide a peaceful resting place for visitors

The garden welcomes all—some stay for hours in quiet reflection, while others simply pass through, leaving with a deeper sense of gratitude for those who served. For families, this space is more than a tribute—it is a place where memories live on, where loved ones are honored not just in name but in spirit.

Maintaining the Beauty of Newfield Township

Ensuring that the township remains welcoming and well-kept is no small task. Parks and cemeteries are carefully maintained by Dennis David, Joan’s husband, who takes great pride in preserving these spaces for future generations.

Beyond upkeep, the Township Board plays a crucial role in governance—Joan works alongside the Clerk, Treasurer, and two Trustees, ensuring that policies align with the community’s best interests. Their teamwork extends beyond routine operations; they attend workshops, zoning meetings, and public hearings to ensure residents’ voices are heard. These efforts ensure that leadership stays informed, adapts to changing needs, and makes decisions aligned with the township’s best interests.

Joan’s advice for those considering public service is simple: Attend meetings, get involved, and make decisions for the good of the community, not personal gain. Leadership requires listening to the majority—not just yourself.

A Rural County Filled with Pride

For Joan, Newfield Township and Oceana County are special places. The 16 townships work together, share ideas, and support one another, creating a county defined by collaboration and connection.

✔ 95% of roads have been improved

✔ Two clean-up days take place annually, ensuring the community stays beautiful

✔ A recycling center operates year-round

✔ **Efforts continue to restore old headstones, preserving history within township cemeteries

Newfield Township: Where Friends Meet & the River Flows

To Joan, Newfield Township embodies friendship and natural beauty. Even for newcomers, the township offers a sense of belonging, a place where the White River flows, history lingers, and residents take pride in their home.

Joan envisions a township where every resident feels safe and proud and where visitors leave with cherished memories of its lakes, rivers, and welcoming atmosphere. She hopes that those who pass through carry a lasting impression, returning to experience its charm—and bringing others to see what makes this town special.

As the first female supervisor, Joan leads alongside three women and two men, forming a balanced board built on respect, teamwork, and action. “We are go-getters, and you can see that in everything we’ve accomplished so far—and in what we continue to do.” Together, they have tackled challenges, celebrated successes, and remained determined to push the township forward, ensuring that Newfield continues to thrive while staying true to its community spirit.

With her unwavering commitment to growth and preservation, Joan remains at the helm, ensuring that Newfield Township thrives—not just today, but for generations to come.

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