By Laura Kadlec Plum City Care Center

Julien Henry Gingras entered the world in grand style on June 24, 1936 in Superior, Wis., the son of Julien C. and Lucille Gingras. J. Henry grew up in Superior, and graduated from Superior Central High School. He continued his education at then Superior State College, and graduated with a major in English. His first teaching position was at Eau Claire Junior High School. He was later recruited to teach at the brand new high school in New Richmond, Wis. There, he taught English and developed a theatre program for students. It also included a better salary! During this time, Henry continued with his post-graduate studies at the University of Minnesota, specializing in theatre.

Henry met Sharon while teaching in New Richmond. She was a sweet sophomore who participated in the drama program and was also a member of the yearbook staff working with Henry as her mentor. After graduating, Sharon kept in touch with Henry and their friendship grew. The “rest is history,” as they say, and they were married in 1967. They soon left New Richmond as Henry became the editor of the Sauk Prairie Star newspaper in Sauk City, Wis., which was owned by his father. It seemed a natural transition as Henry’s father had recently suffered a stroke and Sharon had journalism experience as well. Henry eagerly became active in community activities and especially active in the nearby Lodi Theatre Guild where he performed in and directed plays. In 1972, the paper was sold and Henry and Sharon moved to Durand after purchasing the flower shop – newly named “Julien’s.” Henry, as usual, became active in many community activities and sought out theatre participation through acting and directing in Eau Claire, Mondovi, Wabasha, Menomonie, Spring Valley and Durand. He was also instrumental in designing many of the Durand floats that participated with royalty in surrounding communities.

Following the sale of the flower shop, Henry went back into education and for many years developed and directed a thriving drama program within the Durand School District to include middle and high school students. Henry’s middle school students had the opportunity to “take their show on the road” and performed numerous times at the Mabel Tainter Theater in Menomonie with several productions.

Henry and Sharon are proud parents of Martha Emily Madsen, St. Paul, and Miriam Adair Gingras (St. Peter, Minn.), and granddog, Mabel.

As a resident of the Plum City Care Center, you can often find Henry piquing the minds of our staff with fun facts and interesting musings. He loves his “Friday date night” with Sharon, watching movies on the big screen. Henry’s artistic flair often shows itself during our craft times but most of all, Henry is a frequent encourager to those in our community: the residents, his “girls” (table mates), and the staff.