Mark Leslie
Recently retired after 40 years of practice as an orthopedist and hand surgeon. Living in his hometown of Traverse City, Michigan, with his lovely wife of 49 years, Juliana, he feels very blessed by an ongoing paternal friendship with his kids (son David, daughter Sara and her husband Mark) who live nearby. Now, with more free time, Mark has returned to playing guitar and writing songs. His two dogs compel him to hike or swim daily and otherwise encourage him to relax and sleep in. His number one priority is to be the best grandpa possible to his delightful granddaughters.
Through their collaboration on this book, Jim and Mark have become friends. They get together to play guitar, sing songs of multiple decades, share creative ideas and reflect on stories of their life experiences.
Jim DeWildt
An honor graduate from Kendall College of Art and Design, Jim has been working as a professional illustrator and graphic designer for more than 50 years.
After graduation Jim served in the U.S. Army as an illustrator for the Pentagon for two years.
In the early seventies Jim moved to Traverse City where he and his wife Manie along with their four children have made it their home. The kids are all grown now and have graced them with seven wonderful grandkids.
Aside from the commercial illustration projects, Jim has participated in many fine arts shows and exhibits. His work can be found across the country from private collections to corporate brochures, catalogs, and annual reports. Over the years, Jim has also illustrated eight children's books.
Today you'll find Jim and Manie in their art gallery along with operating their AirB&B.