Illinois man donates stock worth $2 million to wildlife sanctuary

In 1953, Russel Gremel purchased 20 shares of Walgreens stock for $1,000. More than six decades later, that stock is worth $2 million, and it's financing a haven for birds and wildlife in Illinois.

Gremel, a World War II and Koran War veteran, former lawyer, and retired Scoutmaster, is 98 years old, and with his health declining, he wanted to make a lasting contribution to the community. He's always loved nature, going camping and fishing as a kid and teaching Boy Scouts about conservation, and he chose to turn his shares over to the Illinois Audubon Society.

"He's an American hero, he's my hero, and a hero to so many others," Tom Clay, executive director of the Illinois Audubon Society, told ABC News. "He has a twinkle in his eye, and doesn't miss a thing when talking to him." The Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary covers 395 acres in Dixon, Illinois, and Gremel said he hopes that "generations of young land stewards and bird enthusiasts will visit and enjoy the sanctuary."

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up