Earlier this month, we celebrated the life and legacy of a beloved member of our Camp Nissokone family — Mick Lee.
Mick served as our Property Manager at Camp Nissokone in Oscoda from 1993-2018, also helping to oversee the maintenance and facilities at Camp Ohiyesa for much of that time. Mick followed his father, Chuck, in the position, who served in the same role for the previous 15 years. Mick continued working at the camps after his retirement through 2022.
Mick’s unwavering positive attitude and tireless work ethic have inspired thousands of campers and staff. Mick was a genuine and caring leader who always put others first. For many, Mick projected the “Spirit of Camp Nissokone.” There’s not a place at either of our overnight camps that Mick hasn’t improved. His many accomplishments include major renovations to the theatre, office, and health center and the construction of a new Dining Hall porch, sports court, climbing wall, bathhouse, and swim area. In addition, Mick led several Americorps teams, including a project to lift all of the camp’s cabins and build foundations under each.
Upon his retirement in 2018, the YMCA renamed the former ‘Canadian Shelter’ pavilion the Mickie C. Lee Lodge after Mick led the renovation to turn the Canadian Lakes tripping pavilion into a lodge-style cabin.
Mick was an incredible man who will forever be a part of our camp family.
A few words from our staff:
“Mick is one of the most positive people I have ever met in my life. He truly looks for and finds the best in everyone. He is always willing to help people in any way he can. I love when I call camp and hear his voice on the voicemail greeting because “it’s another beautiful day at Camp Nissokone.” Mick always has a twinkle in his eye and a smile in his voice. Working alongside Mick while I was on staff, and the last several years as a volunteer, have led to many wonderful memories. I always look forward to seeing him and love when we are able to sit and talk together. Mick is someone who makes me strive to be a better person.” Former Nissokone Staff
“Mick was an incredibly talented craftsman, with a keen ability to visualize, design, build, and/fix virtually anything from almost nothing. Mick has been a father figure to so many staff members over the years. His grace, and calming presence just make a person feel right at home. We owe a lot to the Lee Family for all of their service to Camp Nissokone and making it a great place to be!” Former Nissokone Staff
“My first memory of Mick is one of my favorites because it goes to show how thoughtful and caring Mick is. I was an LIT out on the canoe trip and at some point along the trip the main camp tried to reach us but weren’t able to. So Mick being Superman, kayaked to our campsite along the AuSable River to check on us. Not only did he come to make sure we were all good, he brought us ice cream!” Former Nissokone Staff
“Mick taught me from a young age as a camper and as an older, growing man as a staff member, to work hard and to do things right the first time. Further, Mick taught me it’s possible to do hard, tough, work even with a smile on your face. This is something that I have carried with me into my career that began at camp. I deal with difficult things, but do so with a smile on my face and try to be somebody to look up to.” Former Nissokone Staff
“Mick radiates positivity in so many ways. From his famous saying “it’s all good” to his work ethic. His attitude and smile are contagious. He has really taught me and many others to tackle the task at hand with the best attitude possible and to always lend a helping hand. Thank you, Mick. You are amazing.” Former Nissokone staff member
“When I think of Mick…I think of one of the nicest, most kind-hearted people I have ever met. Although he can be stern and get things done and said when needed…I truly feel that words cannot describe how amazing of a human being he is. Always with just the most contagious smile and generally curious how YOU are doing. Always there to help in any way that he could, I cannot imagine Camp Nissokone without him. Over the years, directors changed, kitchen staff changed, counselors and campers changed…but Mick was the constant throughout my time at camp. I am sad to see him go but am thankful for not only what he has physically accomplished at camp but all the lives he has enlightened and the people he has touched.” Former Nissokone staff