Gregory Lee "Greg" Niewendorp was born on May 26, 1952 at Primghar, to Byron and Geraldean "Jeri" (Bergeman) Niewendorp. His early life was spent on a farm east of Melvin along with his sister, Christy. Greg received his education at Melvin Community School, graduating with the Class of 1970.

Following high school, Greg attended Northern Michigan University at Marquette, Mich., where he earned his teaching degree. His student teaching term took him to St. Lawrence Island off the coast of Alaska. He returned to Michigan and taught there for two years.

Always passionate about nature and the r...