Harold and Bernadine Reiss grew up in large rural families and lived through the Great Depression. Harold quit school after the eighth grade to get a job and Bernadine was forced to give up her dream of being a teacher. But these experiences taught them to be resourceful and compassionate towards those in similar circumstances. Harold and Bernadine did not have much, but they shared what they could without condition in a kind and caring way.

Harold worked for The Dow Chemical Company for 40 years while Bernadine immersed herself in community service. She was a Girl Scout leader, Sunday school teacher, election board official and civilian defense marshal in WWII. In 1949, Bernadine helped develop Freeland’s Memorial Park. In 1956, she was a founding member of St. Agnes Catholic church and first president of the Altar Society. Bernadine was also president of the Freeland Women’s Study Club and later president of the Saginaw County Federation of Women’s Clubs. Harold was a charter member of Freeland’s volunteer fire department and served over 40 years. In 1986, Harold and Bernadine were named Freeland’s “Citizens of the Year” for their many decades of service to the community, and, in 1987, they were honored by the Gleaners for their lifelong community involvement. Few people have done as much for their family, their community, and their friends and neighbors. And that will be Harold and Bernadine’s everlasting legacy.

The Harold and Bernadine Reiss Scholarship continues their tradition of community service by helping deserving students of Freeland High School achieve their career goals. The selection process will consider both academic ability and financial need. The scholarship may be used to fund either collegiate or vocational education.