Central Michigan University Athletics
Dan Bookey Announces Retirement
12/9/2004 12:00:00 AM | General
Dec. 9, 2004
MOUNT PLEASANT - Veteran Central Michigan University equipment manager Dan Bookey has announced his retirement, effective March 1, 2005.
"I've told a lot of people that I've had the best job in the world and I'm going to miss everything about it," said Bookey, 28 years in his position. "It's just been great. It's going to be pretty tough to walk away from all the young men and women and coaches I've worked with."
Bookey, 65, had a kidney removed on Nov. 19 and is progressing well after his surgery.
"I have known Dan Bookey for 28 years both as a football coach and as the director of athletics," said CMU AD Herb Deromedi. "I've always felt that he was more than a person in charge of the equipment. His ability to relate with players and coaches made him more like another assistant coach."
Bookey has had many great memories throughout his career including four Mid-American Conference football championships and two bowl games.
However, it was a pair of trips down to East Lansing that stick out most vividly.
"The bowl games were great but going to Michigan State with Herb and the boys and winning twice were the ones I'll remember the most," Bookey said.
Bookey began working at CMU in September of 1973 and became the head equipment man in 1977.
Dan and his wife of 43 years, Glenda, plan to stay in the Mount Pleasant area. They will spend as much time as possible at "Cozy Nest," their summer place located in an RV park about 40 minutes southwest of here.
Anyone wishing to contact Dan and Glenda may do so by phone (989-773-2966) or mail at 1030 Sweeney St., Mount Pleasant, Mich. 48858.