Tibbits Opera House in Coldwater has named Bill Trebilcock as its August volunteer of the month for his dedication to the historic theatre in a variety of volunteer positions.

Trebilcock’s love of theater started at about age 11 when his mom took him to Toledo to see “My Fair Lady” on stage. He has been hooked on live theater ever since. New to volunteering at Tibbits, Trebilcock dove head-first this summer into a variety of tasks, from ushering for performances at the Ponds, to helping with mailings and program folding at the office, planting flowers and cleaning up the front of the theater and even joining the auction committee.

“I first came to Tibbits in 1965 when a friend who had a cottage at Marble Lake told my mom about a new theater that opened in Coldwater. Little did I know I would someday move here and get to help out at this historic theater,” he said.

Originally from Adrian, MI, Trebilcock moved here in Dec 1976 to work at the state facility. He maintains the move to Coldwater was the best move of his life since he met his wife there. He worked at the old Coldwater Regional Center until the prison opened and transferred there. He moved on to help open the Coldwater Meijer store and worked there in security and finished working as a part-time security officer at Con Agra Foods in Quincy. He completely retired when the pandemic hit in March.

Aside from volunteering, he loves spending time in his garden, raising flowers for butterflies and bees and watching the birds at the feeders. He loves road trips to state and national parks and recreation areas, hiking in the desert and forest, finding all the little hidden gems on the back roads and talking with the local people. Photography is his biggest hobby, which pairs well with all his traveling. He’s also a longtime member of the First Baptist Church and a Master Mason at Tyre Lodge 18.

“Tibbits is a tremendous asset to the Coldwater area and I am proud to be a part of the Tibbits community. I am happy to be able to give something back to Tibbits and the Coldwater community. The staff and volunteers are easy and fun to work with. Everybody is friendly and helpful,” Treblicock said.

The Volunteer of the Month is chosen by Tibbits staff. Selection is based on the hours and/or service, as well as leadership, special skills or expertise shared. Criteria may be project specific or general support and volunteerism. In recognition of this award, Trebilcock received a $25 Coldwater Area Chamber of Commerce Debit Card.

Tibbits is always looking for more volunteers in a variety of areas: ushering, working the gift shop or concessions area, doing general office help, sorting archival materials, planting flowers, decorating the theater, and much more. Those interested in volunteering should contact Tirsha Odisher at Tibbits at 517-278-6029 or boxoffice@Tibbits.org. Tibbits Opera House is located at 14 S. Hanchett Street, Coldwater, MI. www.Tibbits.org.