GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Opera Grand Rapids is mourning one of its founding members this week.
Joan Gillett was one of the founding members of Opera Grand Rapids, Opera Association of Western Michigan and Friends of the Opera. She died on Nov. 20 at age 96.
Gillet was born in 1928 and founded Opera Grand Rapids in 1966.
She was also a member of the Kent Country Club, University Club of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra Women's Committee, Sideboard Guild of Blodgett Hospital, St. Nicholas Guild of Grace Episcopal Church, the Junior League of Grand Rapids and the Women's City Club, according to her obituary.
Opera Grand Rapids shared this statement:
"Our hearts are heavy to announce that one of our most influential co-founders and constant champions, Joan Gillett, passed away this week. She was truly dedicated to the art form of opera and passionate about our company’s presence in West Michigan. Her support over the years allowed Opera Grand Rapids to rise from its humble beginnings to one of the top mid-size opera companies in the nation. Ever mindful of the needs of our company, Joan continued her legacy by requesting memorial gifts be dedicated to support Opera Grand Rapids."
You can plant a tree in honor of Joan Gillett here.
