DICKINSON COUNTY, MI— Five people were honored this week for saving the life of an Ontonagon man who fell through Lake Gogebic ice in March of 2024.
Michigan DNR Conservation Officers Jennifer Lehto (Hanson) and Zach Painter, Michigan State Police Trooper Paul Maxinoski, Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission Capt. Steve Amsler and Susan Barrette of Bergland were recognized for their quick and effective actions that saved an angler's life.
The officers received lifesaving awards, while Barrette was issued an “Outstanding Citizen Award.” That award may be given to a citizen who assists members of the department or the public in any way that tends to physically endanger the citizen. This includes actions by citizens that are instrumental in the apprehension of a criminal and for extraordinary actions taken to protect life or property.
The five received the awards Monday at a DNR meeting at the Sagola Township Sportsmen’s Club in Dickinson County.
