The Roland and Helen Irwin Endowment Fund was created by the Irwin's daughter, Peg Leinenkugel, in remembrance and gratitude for the love of nature the couple instilled in their children.

"Growing up in the Irwin home meant spending almost every weekend, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, camping," said Peg. "Our parents were big on the idea of learning things by participation. We learned how and where to set up our tent so an unexpected rainstorm wouldn't 'dampen' our comfort. We learned how and where to place our food supply so we wouldn't attract animals. We learned how to catch, clean, and cook our meals."

The Irwin's not only introduced Peg and her three siblings to the joys found in nature, they were quick to correct anything that would harm the natural order, imparting their belief that each generation must be a responsible caretaker so the next generations can experience the same enjoyment.

"Wherever we went, they stopped at all the historical markers along the way," said Peg. "As we grew into our teenage years, this ritual became a little cumbersome because we were at the age where we knew it all! But that didn't stop our parents. We were forced to learn some things about this great state in which we lived."

Through family fun and time together outdoors, the Irwin children soaked in the beauty of the world around them and, naturally, learned the importance of conservation at the same time. "We hiked, we swam, we canoed, and we skied," said Peg. "The waters we enjoyed were pristine."

As a way to ensure the Irwin's' values live on, the Roland "Speed" and Helen Irwin Fund supports endeavors that help keep Chippewa County waterways clean.