Billy H. and Karen J. Rosa

Billy Harmon Rosa, the grandson of Esther (White) Morse, was born in the big white farmhouse of Esther and William Morse in Almira Township, Benzie County, Michigan. The stories that Esther told of her growing-up years on North Manitou remained in Billy’s memory. Billy was raised around the farm and learned lifelong skills from his grandparents and great-grandparents. After Esther’s passing in 1994, he knew he had to preserve the history of those eight years that was so memorable to Esther, as well as her love for Lake Michigan.

Karen, Billy’s wife of sixty years, spent many years with Esther and quickly became aware of the importance of her island history. During the years of putting this book together, Karen complemented Billy’s endeavor by helping assemble photos and writing text to make Billy’s dream a reality.