In the heart of Hidden Lake, nestled among walking paths, scenic views, and friendly neighbors, lives a couple whose story spans continents, careers, and decades of devotion — to each other, to their family, and now, to this welcoming community. Meet Gary and LeeAnn Was, longtime partners in life and adventure, and proud parents of two sons whose paths reflect the values they were raised on: integrity, service, and a love for learning.

After 33 years in Ann Arbor, Gary and LeeAnn felt it was time for something different — something quieter, closer to nature, and rich with neighborly spirit. “We were looking to downsize and live in a welcoming condo community,” LeeAnn shares. Hidden Lake checked all the boxes — the lake, the trails, the social events, and the ease of forming meaningful connections.

They’ve now been residents long enough to know they made the right move. LeeAnn participates in the Hidden Lake Book Club, where she’s loved connecting over favorite reads. “One time we each brought dishes inspired by the books — it felt like we stepped into each other’s stories,” she shares. Gary joined the Meadows’ landscape committee and appreciates the opportunity to help care for the space they now call home. “I really enjoy the events here,” he adds. “It’s a great way to connect. The people are what make it special.”

Their journey together began in 1980, when they met at an apartment complex in Ann Arbor. “We’ve been together ever since,” LeeAnn says with a smile, noting they’re nearing their 44th wedding anniversary. Their admiration for one another is rooted in mutual respect: “I admire LeeAnn’s friendly and outgoing personality — she makes friends easily,” Gary says. For LeeAnn, it’s Gary’s honesty and unwavering work ethic that continue to stand out.

That strong foundation shaped the way they raised their sons, Adam and Alex — both graduates of Ann Arbor Huron High School, both initially pursuing mechanical engineering (Adam at MIT and Alex at the University of Michigan), and both ultimately charting their own paths.

Adam took a transformative detour, spending two years in Africa with the Clinton Foundation before attending Harvard Medical School. He now serves as a pediatric cardiac anesthesiologist at Mott Hospital. His wife, Jessica, is also an anesthesiologist, specializing in emergency and cardiac care at the Ann Arbor VA. Together, they’re raising three children — Gray (6), Milo (4), and Hazel (2) — who bring endless joy and energy to Gary and LeeAnn’s lives. “We love spending time with them and babysit frequently,” LeeAnn shares.

Alex, meanwhile, earned his MBA from UCLA after completing his undergrad at U of M. He spent several years as a project manager at Apple in Silicon Valley before relocating with his wife Brittany — a nurse who previously worked at a private school — to Bend, Oregon. Alex now works in Ford’s electric vehicle division, and they’re settling into their new home with excitement and a fresh sense of adventure. “They’re doing great,” says Gary. “And we’re thrilled to see them thriving.”

Gary’s professional life has been marked by both depth and longevity. He spent 41 years at the University of Michigan in the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences, holding multiple leadership roles — including Department Chair, Associate Dean of the College of Engineering, and Director of the Phoenix Memorial Energy Institute. He retired in 2021 as a Professor Emeritus, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and innovation. “His work ethic is unmatched,” says LeeAnn. “He poured himself into everything he did.”

LeeAnn’s own career path is equally meaningful. A Registered Nurse, she worked in both Holland and Ann Arbor after completing nursing school in Grand Rapids. Her final professional years were spent at the U of M student health center, caring for young adults navigating the pivotal college years. “There was something hopeful about helping students take charge of their health,” she reflects.

Their heart for service continues in retirement. LeeAnn is actively involved in New Life Church, local politics, and volunteer work with Samaritan’s Purse — including hurricane relief efforts when they spend time in Florida.

When they’re not engaging with the community or spending time with grandkids, the Was family stays active. Biking, walking, gardening, and playing pickleball are part of their weekly rhythm. But their adventurous spirit goes much further.

Several years ago, Gary, Adam, and Alex climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro — a life-changing experience that inspired them to write a book chronicling the journey. “It was both physically and emotionally challenging,” Gary says. “But it brought us even closer.” In January 2026, Gary and Adam are setting their sights on Antarctica — another chapter in their ever-evolving family story.

Gary’s go-to way to unwind is hitting the gym. For LeeAnn, it’s curling up with a good book, journaling, or kayaking along the shores of their Lake Huron cottage — a place that’s deeply woven into their family’s memories.

Their family pet, BooBoo, has a rescue story worthy of a novel. Found starving in the woods near their Lake Huron cottage in 2012, she was taken in, cleaned up, and quickly became part of the family. Shortly after, BooBoo flew across the country to live with Adam during his residency at Stanford. There, she adapted to life with labradoodles and med school chaos. Four years later, when allergies arose, BooBoo returned to Michigan — and to Gary, who she’s now firmly attached to. “She follows me everywhere, comes when I call, and still plays games like a kitten,” he shares. “She’s got a real personality.”

From their beginnings in Detroit and Holland to their journeys through academia, service, parenting, and travel, Gary and LeeAnn have built a life rooted in purpose and nourished by connection. Whether they’re cheering on the Red Wings, preparing pierogi and blueberry pie for the holidays, or simply sitting on the porch after a walk around the neighborhood, they embody the beauty of a life lived with heart.

“It’s the lake, the people, the location,” says LeeAnn. “But mostly, it’s the feeling of being part of something special.”

And as they continue to write their story here at Hidden Lake — one walk, one gathering, one grandchild giggle at a time — there’s no doubt that they are exactly where they’re meant to be.