Meet the Quineys: Spring Lake's Fun Loving Family Next Door!
If there’s one family that captures the heart of Spring Lake, it’s the Quineys! Nominated by the lovely Mary Molyneux (who’s also known for her fabulous recipes in Stroll Spring Lake), the Quineys bring joy, energy, and a touch of adventure wherever they go. Mary, a close friend of Emily’s mom Kathy, thought the Quineys would be perfect for our Family Spotlight—and we couldn’t agree more. On a crisp January day, Lexi Fogle Photography captured this vibrant family in their element: relaxing on their deck overlooking Spring Lake and strolling through Epicurean Village and Tanglefoot Park. Now, let’s dive into their story!
The Quiney Crew
This dynamic family is a whirlwind of activity and heart. Here’s a closer look at the lineup:
- Bailey (18): A freshman at Saginaw Valley State University, Bailey’s got it all—brains, talent, and ambition! She’s part of the Cardinal Singers, active in clubs and church groups, and even started her own cleaning business over winter break. Talk about a go-getter! She’s also a familiar face at Music Everyday, where she worked during high school and honed her voice.
- Lyla (17): As a junior at Spring Lake High School, Lyla’s making waves—literally—on the girls varsity swim team. When she’s not hitting the pool, she’s babysitting her cousins or working at Continuum Salon after school.
- Gabe (14): This eighth-grader at Spring Lake Middle School is a sports fanatic. From football to swimming to lacrosse, he’s all in. He loves practicing with his lacrosse gear in the yard. Gabe’s the neighbor everyone loves, always ready to help out with chores or lend a hand to Grandma.
Let’s not forget Oliver, the family’s spoiled, adorable Shorkie. With a knack for napping (up to 20 hours a day!), Oliver keeps things cozy moving only to find the next best blanket or grab a snack. Oh the life!
A Love Story That’s Straight Out of a Rom Com!
Emily and Colin’s journey started in Grand Haven, where fate brought them together. Colin, home from the Canadian Football League off-season, was working as a bouncer at the old Grand Haven hot dance spot, Laguna Beach Club. “I was that tall, blond dude with my sleeves rolled up in that tacky 90’s fashion, checking ID’s and breaking up fights,” Colin laughs. Emily was back from college, attending St. Mary’s College at Notre Dame and decided to go out dancing with friends in Grand Haven. She laid eyes on Colin, sparks flew, and she just knew he was “the one.” Four years and plenty of memories later, they tied the knot. This April, they’ll celebrate 23 wonderful years of marriage.
What makes their love last? Emily admires Colin’s loyalty and kind heart, while Colin treasures Emily’s dedication and warmth. Together, they’ve built a life filled with love, laughter, and three amazing kids.
Careers and Achievements
Emily and Colin are as impressive in their professional lives as they are at home. Emily holds degrees in nursing, including a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, and works night shifts at Corewell Health Butterworth in the OB department. Balancing her career and family with grace, she’s proof that supermoms do exist!
Colin, a GVSU alum and former CFL player, has spent 25 years in the mortgage industry. In 2023 he was inducted to the Houghton Lake High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He’s currently with Benchmark Mortgage’s Grand Rapids branch. Together, they’ve shown their kids the value of hard work and perseverance.
Community and Faith
The Quineys are deeply rooted in their community. As members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, they actively participate in local events. Colin also coached youth football for six years, passing on his love of the game to Gabe.
How They Unwind
When the Quineys want to relax, you’ll likely find them on Spring Lake, soaking up the summer sun on their pontoon boat. Emily loves her morning coffee on the deck overlooking the water, while the family gathers outdoors well into the fall, thanks to patio heaters and cozy blankets. Their favorite travel destinations include Mexico and Houghton Lake, MI, where they own a bar/restaurant that’s become a successful project.
“Our restaurant up there is called Backdoor Salon. It’s a rustic vibe with beautiful lake views,” Emily tells us. “We are home of Northern Michigan's Best Burger called The Big Bad Wolf!” We also have created quite a following for our handmade egg rolls that come in lots of flavors, like southwest brisket, Philly, and Reuben. We try to get up there every few months but honestly it ends up being Colin more often as he does a lot of mortgage business with the local realtors in the area.”
Colin’s parents still live in Houghton Lake so the family loves spending time with them when they're up in the area. The Quineys also take their SXS and 4-wheeler on the gorgeous trails up in Houghton with our family and friends. They usually do 2 big rides per year with a large group of people.
Colin and Gabe like to take on ‘father/son” hunting excursions. Gabe got his first buck this past season on his very first shot! The boys also made a trip to Meridian, TX to go to Mountain Top Ranch which is owned by the CEO of Colin's company. “They helped with the annual ranch management which involves clearing the land of animals that are sick or old and may be prone to predators along with the wild pigs that are a nuisance,” explains Emily. “Gabe's highlight was shooting an oryx that had a damaged hoof and only one antler. It was a wonderful, educational experience for him!”
Why We Love the Quineys
With Bailey’s entrepreneurial spirit and talent, Lyla’s dedication to school and sports, or Gabe’s boundless energy, the Quineys inspire everyone they meet. Colin and Emily’s love story, coupled with their devotion to family and community, makes them true role models.
The Quineys remind us all to cherish family, pursue passions, and embrace life with open arms. We’re so thrilled to have them as part of our Spring Lake community!