By ZACH JAY

Journal Ishpeming Bureau

MARQUETTE – The longest-serving probate court judge in Marquette County history was honored Wednesday afternoon in a ceremony unveiling his portrait to be hung in the courthouse.

Former Probate Court Judge Michael Anderegg was joined by about 40 people – portrait artist and longtime friend Paul Grant, family members and fellow judges and attorneys – in the probate courtroom to see Grant’s portrait of him for the first time.

Anderegg was Marquette County’s 14th probate judge, serving from 1977 until his retirement at the end of 2012.

At the ceremony, Dominic Andriacchi, president of the Marquette County Bar Association, recited a long list of Anderegg’s accolades, endeavors and accomplishments, in law and in the local community.

“He’s got more qualifications and things after his name than degrees on a thermometer,” Andriacchi joked.

Probate Court Judge Cheryl Hill, who unveiled the portrait, spoke very highly of her predecessor, saying Anderegg’s work continues to help her and that many in Marquette County owe him a debt of gratitude, particularly for his work with children.

Anderegg said the probate court hears cases that involve delinquent, abused and neglected children.

Speaking to the gatherers, Anderegg was humble, thanking his family and staff for their support during his career.

He joked that, ironically, his wife spent a lot of time being a single parent while he was off telling other people how to raise their children. He affectionately compared the job to gripping a live wire – electric while you were in it, but something you weren’t eager to repeat.

“It was always challenging,” he said. “There were times when I went home with a headache, but there were times when I felt like I was able to make a difference, too, and that’s what keeps you going.”

The portrait will be hung in the probate courtroom with other past judges.

Zach Jay can be reached at 906-486-4401. His email address is zjay@miningjournal.net.