Springett, R.E. and Myrtle

While kind words are expected in an obituary or article after one has died, the words published after the death of Robert Edmund Springett reveal the gift that the Lowell community was blessed with in the lives of R.E. and Myrtle Springett. He is described as “helping make Lowell an outstanding community, he was one of the most unselfish citizens who, in his quiet but effective manner, contributed much. He was indifferent to the accumulation of worldly goods, but he possessed an insatiable determination to do good in his own inimitable manner.” Those words describe how they lived their lives.

R.E. Springett was born in 1877. He graduated from the University of Michigan Law School in 1902 and was admitted to the bar. He came the same year to Lowell, opening a law office. In 1903 he married Myrtle Reese, a classmate from University. Myrtle was a basketball star at the University of Michigan.

Springett’s office was first located on the second floor of 218 W. Main. In addition to being an attorney, he also sold fire insurance and served as Justice of the Peace. The first floor was initially the City State Bank, then Hill’s Shoe Store. In his profession he was described as being a clear thinker, a close reasoner, and is thoroughly logical in his deductions. He excelled as a lawyer, serving as Village Attorney for twenty years.

Bob and Myrtle Springett cared about the younger generations. Myrtle opened her home at 604 N. Monroe as a gathering place for young people, not just for entertainment but to listen and help with their problems. Bob stated that his goal when working with young people when they came before him in Justice Court was to help them. He often worked for free and went out of his way to give help and advice to those who needed it.

Bob Springett started the Boy Scout Band of Lowell in 1921. He liked music and watching young men succeed. A trumpet player himself, it was a natural fit. By 1922 it was the largest in Michigan, and later it was said to be the largest in the country. All three of his sons, Thurston, Wayne and Roger, played in the band.

Myrtle died unexpectedly in 1941. Like her husband, she was very devoted to the community. She had served as matron of the Order of the Eastern Star. Later, Bob moved to California to live with his son Roger. He died in 1964, and his cremains were brought back to Lowell to be buried with Myrtle in Oakwood Cemetery.

Bob and Myrtle Springett found their satisfaction by doing things for others. Bob’s death announcement concludes with, “the entire community owes him a debt of gratitude. Yes, Bob, we salute you!”

Images:

1902 University of Michigan Band

City Hall Dedication, Springett is believed to be in the back center

Signs from Springett's Law office

Certificate of thanks from Kent County War Chest

Passport application