Meet Michele & Gil McClurg

Both Michele and Gil grew up spending time around water — Michele in Ocean City, Maryland, Gil in Seaside Park, New Jersey. As a couple living together outside Annapolis, Maryland, they enjoyed days sailing Chesapeake Bay.

In 2012, while visiting friends on Hutchinson Island, Michele said to Gil: “This would be a great place to retire.” Two years later they bought a place with the intention of being snowbirds, spending the other half of the year in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland. But soon after, they realized that they enjoyed their time in Florida more and became full-time residents.

They have spent many of their retired years giving back to the environment and to ensure their three grandchildren will be able to enjoy the water and the beach as much as they did when they were young. Upon moving to Florida, Florida Oceanographic Society felt like a natural fit for the McClurgs. At first, they started out by volunteering for beach cleanups. But as they got more involved, they began participating in oyster mattings, sea grass mattings, and helping with events. They attribute part of their continued involvement to the staff. “The people here make volunteering fun and educational,” says Michele. “Everyone is friendly, supportive and truly appreciates whatever you do.” As a team the McClurgs have accumulated close to 400 volunteer hours.

When they are not volunteering with Florida Oceanographic Society, Michele spends time taking care of her plants, crocheting, and playing games with her friends. She makes frequent trips to Maryland to spend time with their daughter, son-in-law and two little grandsons. Gil has had several hobbies over the years, including restoring and showing classic cars and building a sailing dory, which he sailed on the Indian River Lagoon. He enjoys spending time on the water fishing or just cruising around with their 7-year-old grandson who lives in Stuart. “Being on the water with him, I hope he will gain the same appreciation for the beauty of the ocean that I have and the reasons we need to protect it,” says Gil.

Snapshot:
Michele was born in Washington, D.C.
Gil was born in Englewood, NJ

Favorite Restaurants: Pietro’s - "Good food with a quiet, easy atmosphere," Sailors Return – "Great sunsets"

Favorite authors: John Grisham, James Patterson, David Baldacci

Favorite TV shows: Yellowstone (and spin-offs), Ozark