Deborah Prescott | Daily Press Greg Smith stands in his front yard acknowledging friends, family, and co-workers as they pass by in parade celebrating his retirement. People are finding ways to celebrate events while keeping at least six feet a part. At his left is wife, Kathy Smith, and at his right is granddaughter Kennedy Pare.

ESCANABA — Throughout history, people have found creative ways to celebrate events. The coronavirus pandemic has made celebrations harder to experience and share while keeping physically distant from each other.

Escanaba resident Kathy Smith decided the best way to involve others in a retirement celebration for her husband Greg was to ask family, friends, and co-workers to drive by the Smith residence Tuesday evening for a retirement parade. Neighbor’s of the Smiths could hear public safety sirens bellowing and lights flashing at 5 p.m. in honor of Greg, who retired from the Menominee County Sheriff’s Department March 31 after serving the public 26 plus years.

“I was so surprised I just can’t believe it,” he said.

People in vehicles were lined up along 10th Avenue South, getting in position before cruising past Greg’s house in parade fashion. Friends of the family made signs they held up while going by, honked and waved as they passed the home.

“We are so happy and excited for him for achieving 26 years with his department,” said daughter Kim Paul. “His granddaughters, Kennedy and Emelia are his biggest fans.”

Daughter Kayla Mason wished Greg a happy retirement and reminded him of the time he will now be able to spend with his granddaughters.

Many families are struggling during this time and the Smith family is no exception. Half their family have lost their jobs due to the coronavirus and are trying to collect unemployment. Kathy’s father currently has pneumonia.

“I wanted to throw a big party, but of course we can’t so I saw that someone else had a bunch of people ride by for someone’s birthday and we thought this was an awesome idea,” Kathy said.

She is also off work. Kathy’s supervisor insisted she stay home because of the coronavirus risk.

“I have a compromised immune system … so, doctor’s orders I cannot go to work and risk getting the COVID-19 virus,” said Kathy. “One main thing I want everyone to remember, is God is good. It is a struggle to remember that during these hard times.”

Menominee Sheriff Kenny Marks said Smith served with integrity and dedication to duty in all Menominee County. Smith is highly decorated, with many citations, according to Marks.

“I honor his service with a final Semper Fi…’always faithful’,” said Marks. “We’re gonna miss him.”

For a moment, everyone forgot about the coronavirus pandemic.