Cheers, Applause And Happy Birthday Salute A Bay City Community Leader

It was an unusual moment for many people in Bay City Sunday…Donald Carlyon was at a loss for words.

Carlyon, Delta College’s president for 31 years, was the guest of honor for a surprise, 95th birthday party at the State Theatre, organized by his children.

Carlyon gave his staff all the credit for changes at Delta between 1961 and 1992. He said his role was being the enabler. He was proud that everyone at Delta looked forward to come to work.

Some two decades ago, the State Theatre was almost demolished. A long time theatre board member, Carlyon credits Peggy and Paul Rowley as the movers and shakers that restored the theatre. Carlyon was also recognized for his service to Bay City’s Downtown Development Authority and the Wirt Library.