Dennis Gerathy’s work can be seen in hundreds of homes, bars, restaurants, and businesses nationwide. From his quiet home and studio in Leelanau County, Gerathy generates one-of-a-kind vintage wooden signs.

One of his most visible projects – re-creating an iconic Mail Pouch Tobacco sign – can be seen on the George Wellman farm on Lakeshore Drive in Leelanau County. Other work – much of which carries that unmistakable “Up North vintage feel” -- can be seen at the North Country Grill, the Village Inn, Cherry Republic stores, Folgarelli’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and dozens of other local spots

He considers his sign business – Dennis Gerathy Hand Made Signs -- a true calling, not just a way to earn money. It’s how he combines his artistic nature with a love for the past.

“The checks I get for my work are good,” he says, “but what lasts longer are the cards and letters thanking me and telling me how much customers appreciate my work.”

Now, after 50 years of making custom signs, the thank-you letters easily fill three thick binders. At last count, he’s made more than 23,000 signs.

His love of old signs started as a child while vacationing in northern Michigan with his family.

“I remember being fascinated by old tin Coca-Cola signs, ones for A & W Root Beer and other brands,” Gerathy says. “Early on, I got a Speedball Pen Kit, learned calligraphy, then moved on to lettering with a brush,” he says. “Once you use a brush, you’re hooked.”

During his teen years, he got $1 from a Detroit area grocer for each sign he painted on butcher paper. Later, he tried working in a factory, but corrected his course back to more creative pursuits.

Ultimately it was a single phone call in 1992 that led him to vintage sign making.

“The guy wanted a sign that said ‘Grand Central Station,’ and it had to be one of a kind and look old. For me, that was the important word right there – old,” Gerathy recalls. “People say that one good idea can revolutionize your life. That call inspired me. It played right into something I’d loved since I was a kid – old signs.”

His wooden signs are neatly lettered and solidly built but, by design, they are not slick works of art. Instead, they reflect the passing of time and the effects of years of rain, snow and wind. He chooses materials from a vast supply of discarded house trim boards, siding and old window frames. Even the nails and other hardware he uses are usually well worn. He uses various techniques to give the paint job that weathered look.

Technical matters aside, Gerharty’s peace of mind comes from having found work that makes use of his talents. That, he says, connects him to his purpose in life.

“Did you ever think about what it is that makes people happy?” he asks. “Sure, you’d like to have a nice home and family, a good car, some spending money. But to be happy, I think you also need to use the talents you’ve been given. I’m lucky in having that.”