1988 in Michigan

none 1988 1988 Events from the year 1988 in Michigan included: the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, while en route to Detroit; Jesse Jackson's victory over Michael Dukakis in the Michigan Democratic caucus; the crack cocaine epidemic in Detroit; the state's voters passing a ballot proposal prohibiting Medicaid-funded abortions; the induction of The Supremes into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; Grammy Awards won by multiple Michigan artists (including Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, Smokey Robinson, Yusef Lateef, Robin Williams, CeCe Winans, and Narada Michael Walden); Steve Yzerman's emergence as the state's most popular athlete; and the Detroit Pistons defeating the Boston Celtics in the NBA semifinals before losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in seven games of the 1988 NBA Finals. Top Michigan news stories The Associated Press (AP) selected the top stories in Michigan for 1988 as follows:Abortion, drought top state stories The Bay City Times Marge Mellott December 25, 1988 D1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-bay-city-times-abortion-drought-top/182512052/ Newspapers.com Michigan voters in November 1988 approved Proposal A prohibiting Medicaid-paid abortions. It passed by a margin of 1.94 million to 1.48 million. With the vote, Michigan joined 36 other states in banning Medicaid abortions. In 1987, Michigan had spent $6 million to fund 18,000 abortions. The Michigan Legislature had voted 17 times to ban Medicaid-funded abortions between 1977 and 1987 but it was vetoed each time by Governors James Blanchard or William Milliken.Yes vote ends tax-funded abortions Lansing State Journal November 9, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/lansing-state-journal-yes-vote-ends-tax/182542731/ Newspapers.com A drought that shriveled crops and led Gov. James Blanchard to impose a statewide ban on outdoor burning, fireworks and cigarette smoking. Presidential politics, including Pat Robertson's popularity, Jesse Jackson's victory in the Michigan caucus, and Michael Dukakis losing the state. (tie) The creation of the Michigan Education Trust guaranteeing college tuition for youngsters who enrolled. Some 40,344 children were enrolled in 1988. (tie) Debate over changes in school financing. Medical waste, including hypodermic needles with traces of blood, washed up on Lake Michigan shoreline, forcing temporary beach closures. The approval and subsequent litigation over the joint operating agreement (JOA) between The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press. The papers, rivals for 115 years, combined business operations. The JOA was approved by Attorney General Edwin Meese in August 1988. The trial and conviction of Alberta Easter and her three sons (William, George and Roy Lemons) for the July 1987 Inkster police slayings in which three Inkster police officers (Sgt. Ira Parker and officers Daniel Dubiel and Clay Hoover) were killed in a hail of gunfire inside a room at the Bungalow Motel. The officers were trying to serve a warrant on Easter for writing a bad check. After a 13-week trial, the jury in August 1988 found all four guilty of first-degree murder The war against crack cocaine in Detroit, including raids on hundreds of crackhouses and trials and convictions of Richard Wershe Jr. ("White Boy Rick") and the Chambers Brothers gang. The 10-day hunt for Vincent Loonsfoot through Upper Peninsula woods. Loonsfoort was wanted for fatally shooting four members of his ex-wife's family at the Hannahville Indian Reservation near Escanaba. Loonsfoot eventually surrendered. He was convicted on four counts of first-degree murder in December 1988. The AP voting was conducted prior to the December 23 crash of Pan Am Flight 103 en route from Frankfurt and London to Detroit. The AP also conducted a poll of Michigan sports editors who selected the state's top sports stories as follows:Pistons voted No. 1 state sports story of year The Flint Journal December 17, 1988 Associated Press C5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-flint-journal-pistons-voted-no-1-st/182513978/ Newspapers.com The 1987–88 Detroit Pistons defeating the Boston Celtics in the NBA semifinals before losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in seven games of the 1988 NBA Finals. The 1987 Michigan State Spartans football team's 20–17 victory over USC in the 1988 Rose Bowl. The 1987–88 Detroit Red Wings advancing the Stanley Cup semifinals where they lost to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Edmonton Oilers in five games. Kirk Gibson's signing as a free agent with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Detroit Tigers finishing in second place by one game in the American League East. The Detroit Lions' firing of Darryl Rogers and replacing him with Wayne Fontes. Flint native Jim Abbott leading the US baseball team in the baseball competition at the 1988 Summer Olympics. The 1988 Michigan Wolverines football team winning the Big Ten championship and earning a berth in the 1989 Rose Bowl. Steve Yzerman emerging as a star with a 50-goal season. The Red Wings' suspension of Bob Probert and Petr Klíma and their rejoining the team in November. In a separate poll by the Detroit Free Press, readers selected the top sports figures of 1988. The top 10 were Steve Yzerman (162 points), Jim Abbott (117 points), kayaker and 2x gold medalist Greg Barton (82 points), Traverse City football coach Jim Ooley (81 points), Central Michigan basketball player Dan Majerle (70 points), Isiah Thomas (57 points), Farmington Hills quarterback Mill Coleman (52 points), Kirk Gibson (44 points), Bo Schembechler (35 points), and Steve Avery (Steve Avery (baseball)The Ace Detroit Free Press June 1, 1988 16D https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-the-ace-steve-avery/182514992/ Newspapers.com or Steve Avery (American football)Avery slightly offbeat Detroit Free Press September 2, 1988 7E https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-steve-avery/182514896/ Newspapers.com?) (33 points).Michigan's Best 1988 Detroit Free Press Corky Meinecke December 25, 1988 1D, 14D https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-michigans-best-1988/182514585/ Newspapers.com 3 Office holders State office holders thumb|right|130px|Gov. Blanchard Governor of Michigan: James Blanchard (Democrat) Lieutenant Governor of Michigan: Martha Griffiths (Democrat) Michigan Attorney General: Frank J. Kelley (Democrat) Michigan Secretary of State: Richard H. Austin (Democrat) Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives: Gary Owen (Democrat) Majority Leader of the Michigan Senate: John Engler (Republican) Chief Justice, Michigan Supreme Court: Dorothy C. Riley Mayors of major cities Mayor of Detroit: Coleman Young Mayor of Grand Rapids: Gerald R. Helmholdt Mayor of Warren, Michigan: Ronald L. Bonkowski Mayor of Sterling Heights, Michigan: Jean DiRezze Gush Mayor of Flint: Matthew S. Collier Mayor of Dearborn: Michael Guido Mayor of Lansing: Terry John McKane Mayor of Ann Arbor: Gerald Jernigan (Republican) Mayor of Saginaw: Delbert J. Schrems Federal office holders right|thumb|125px|Sen. Levin U.S. Senator from Michigan: Donald W. Riegle Jr. (Democrat) U.S. Senator from Michigan: Carl Levin (Democrat) House District 1: John Conyers (Democrat) House District 2: Carl Pursell (Republican) House District 3: Howard Wolpe (Republican) House District 4: Fred Upton (Republican) House District 5: Harold S. Sawyer (Republican) House District 6: Bob Carr (Democrat) House District 7: Dale Kildee (Democrat) House District 8: J. Bob Traxler (Democrat) House District 9: Guy Vander Jagt (Republican) House District 10: Bill Schuette (Republican) House District 11: Robert William Davis (Republican) House District 12: David Bonior (Democrat) House District 13: George Crockett Jr. (Democrat) House District 14: Dennis M. Hertel (Democrat) House District 15: William D. Ford (Democrat) House District 16: John Dingell (Democrat) House District 17: Sander Levin (Democrat) House District 18: William Broomfield (Republican) Population Sports Baseball 1988 Detroit Tigers season - Led by manager Sparky Anderson, the Tigers compiled an 88-74 record, one game behind the first-place Boston Red Sox. The team's statistical leaders included Alan Trammell (.311 batting average, 69 RBIs), Darrell Evans (22 home runs), Jack Morris (15 wins), and Mike Henneman (1.87 ERA).1988 Detroit Tigers Statistics Sports Reference LLC Baseball-Reference.com October 7, 2025 https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/DET/1988.shtml American football 1988 Detroit Lions season - Led by head coaches Darryl Rogers (11 games) and Wayne Fontes (6 games), the Lions compiled a 4–12 record. The team's leaders included Rusty Hilger (1,558 passing yards), Garry James (552 rushing yards), Pete Mandley (617 receiving yards, Eddie Murray (82 points scored), and Chris Spielman (153 tackles).1988 Detroit Lions Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees Sports Reference LLC Pro Football Reference October 7, 2025 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1988.htm 1988 Michigan Wolverines football team - In their 20th year under head coach Bo Schembechler, the Wolverines compiled a 9–2–1 record, won the Big Ten championship, and defeated USC in the 1989 Rose Bowl. The team's statistical leaders included quarterback Michael Taylor (957 passing yards), tailback Tony Boles (1,408 rushing yards), split end Greg McMurtry (470 receiving yards), and placekicker Mike Gillette (97 points scored).1988 Michigan Wolverines Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football February 3, 2020 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/michigan/1988.html 1988 Michigan State Spartans football team - In their sixth year under head coach George Perles, the Spartans compiled a 6–5–1 record. The team's statistical leaders included Bobby McAllister (1,118 passing yards), Blake Ezor (1,350 rushing yards), Andre Rison (30 receptions for 709 yards), and John Langeloh (83 points scored).1988 Michigan State Spartans Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football October 7, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/michigan-state/1988.html Basketball 1987–88 Detroit Pistons season - Led by head coach Chuck Daly, the Pistons compiled a 54–28 record, advancing the NBA Finals where they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in seven games. Statistical leaders included Isiah Thomas (1,577 points, 678 assists) and Bill Laimbeer (832 rebounds).1987-88 Detroit Pistons Roster and Stats Sports Reference LLC Basketball Reference October 7, 2025 https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DET/1988.html 1987–88 Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team - Led by Bill Frieder, the Wolverines compiled a 26–8 record and advanced to the Sweet Sixteen. Statistical leaders included Glen Rice (728 points, 236 rebounds) and Gary Grant (234 assists).1987-88 Michigan Wolverines Men's Roster and Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/CBB October 7, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/michigan/men/1988.html 1987–88 Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team Ice hockey 1987–88 Detroit Red Wings season - Led by coach Jacques Demers, the Red Wings compiled a 41–28–11 record, losing to eventual Stanley Cup champion Edmonton Oilers. Music and culture right|thumb|165px|The Supremes 1966 January 20 - Motown's The Supremes were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (along with The Beatles, Bob Dylan and the Beach Boys). Diana Ross did not attend the induction ceremony. Mary Wilson was the only member to appear at the ceremony, as Florence Ballard died in 1976, and Cindy Birdsong, who joined the group in 1967, was not invited.Reunions don't click at rock 'n' roll fete Detroit Free Press Gary Graff January 21, 1988 7B https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-rock-n-roll-hof/183157159/ Newspapers.com January 25 - Anita Baker won twice at the American Music Awards of 1988: Favorite Soul/R&B Female Artist and Favorite Soul/R&B Album (Rapture) February 17 - "Young at Heart", a documentary by Detroit filmmakers, received an Academy Award nomination. It later won the award. March 2 - Multiple Michigan artists won Grammy Awards. Aretha Franklin won two with one award each to Anita Baker, Smokey Robinson, Yusef Lateef, Robin Williams, CeCe Winans, and Narada Michael Walden. March 4 - Smokey Robinson's single "Just to See Her" was released. It awarded the 1988 Grammy Award for Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. March 31 - University of Michigan professor William Bolcom won the Pulitzer Prize in music for his composition "12 New Etudes for Piano" October 18 - Anita Baker's Giving You the Best That I Got (album) was released. It went to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart. November 5 - The song "If We Hold On Together" by Diana Ross, the theme song from The Land Before Time, became a hit (No. 1 in Japan). November 17 - You Can Dance album from Madonna was released, featuring remixes of tracks from her first three albums, including Holiday and Into the Groove. Stevie Wonder's "Skeletons" received two 1988 Grammy Award nominations for Best R&B Song and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.https://www.grammy.com/artists/stevie-wonder/8257 Stevie Wonder The Recording Academy December 15, 2024 Chronology of events January January 1 - The 1997 Michigan State Spartans football team defeated USC in the 1988 Rose Bowl.What a Win! It's MSU over USC by 20-17 The Lansing State Journal January 2, 1988 1C https://www.newspapers.com/article/lansing-state-journal-rose-bowl/183252609/ Newspapers.com January 2 - Protests over the USA-Canada free trade agreement clogged the Ambassador Bridge in DetroitCanada, U.S. sign trade pact: Protesters clog traffic on bridge Detroit Free Press January 3, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-canada-us-sign-tra/183252805/ Newspapers.com January 4 - Former state Senator Basil W. Brown sentenced to six months in prison for delivering cocaine and marijuana to a prostitute.Basil Brown gets six months on drug conviction Grand Haven Tribune Associated Press January 5, 1988 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/grand-haven-tribune-basil-brown-gets-six/183247373/ Newspapers.com January 8 - Former Michigan National Bank chairman Stanford "Bud" Stoddard sentenced to three years in federal prison following his conviction for fraud.Stoddard gets 3-year sentence Detroit Free Press Barry Rohan January 9, 1988 1A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-stoddard/183252967/ Newspapers.com January 10 - Auto dealer Michael Rinke and two others died after crash of small airplane following takeoff from Oakland Pontiac Airport.3 die in Waterford plane crash: Turboprop flips after takeoff; failure of engine is suspected Detroit Free Press Bob Campbell and Dawson Bell January 11, 1988 1A, 17A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-3-die-in-waterford-pl/183253401/ Newspapers.com January 13 - Two were injured after shootout between two mothers at Stellwagen Elementary School in Detroit.Pupils cover as bullets fly: Mothers trade shots outside Detroit school Detroit Free Press Jim Finkelstein January 14, 1988 1A, 18A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-pupils-cover-as-bulle/183253596/ Newspapers.com January 29 - Kirk Gibson signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, ending his time with the Detroit Tigers.Tigers lose Gibson to Los Angeles Los Angeles Times Gene Guidi January 30, 1988 1A, 18A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-tigers-lose-gibson-to/183253744/ Newspapers.com February February 4 - "White Boy Rick" Wershe sentenced to life in prison.'White Boy' Wershe gets life; lawyer says FBI offered deal Detroit Free Press Joe Swickard February 6, 1988 1A, 13A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-white-boy-wershe-ge/183257719/ Newspapers.com February 12 - Detroit Mayor Coleman Young appointed a commission to study casino gambling in the city.Young picks commission on casinos Detroit Free Press Bill McGraw February 13, 1988 1A, 7A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-young-picks-commissio/183257875/ Newspapers.com February 18 - Ford reported a $4.6 billion profit for 1987, the largest profit ever reported by an automobile company.Ford sets the record for car industry profit Detroit Free Press Nunzio Lupo February 19, 1988 1A, 18A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-ford-sets-the-record/183258032/ Newspapers.com Workers received average profit-sharing payout of $3,700.Ford workers cash in on top year: Average profit share is $3,700 Detroit Free Press John Spelich aand John Lear February 20, 1988 1A, 7A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press/183258179/ Newspapers.com February 24 - Lee Iacocca said he would probably accept if nominated as the Democratic Party candidate for President.Griffiths endorses Iacocca, says he might run Detroit Free Press Chris Christoff February 25, 1988 3A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-griffiths-endorses-ia/183258374/ Newspapers.com March March 1 - General Motors discontinued the Pontiac Fiero and closed the plant in Pontiac, Michigan, making the Fiero the last Pontiac to be built in Pontiac.GM to idle Fiero plant, kill model: Last Pontiac from Pontiac means 1,109 to be laid off Detroit Free Press John Lippert March 2, 1988 1A, 13A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gm-to-idle-fiero-plan/183258582/ Newspapers.com March 7 - Jim Abbott won the Sullivan Award as the country's top amateur athlete.Abbott awarded Sullivan: Voted top U.S. amateur, U-M pitcher is stunned Detroit Free Press Mick McCabe March 8, 1988 1D, 4D https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-abbott-awarded-sulliv/183258771/ Newspapers.com March 14 - Michigan basketball player Gary Grant selected as an All-American by both the Associated Press and the United Press International and was selected as the most valuable player in the Big Ten Conference.Grant is MVP, All-America Detroit Free Press March 15, 1988 1A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-grant-is-mvp-all-ame/183259018/ Newspapers.com March 26 - Jesse Jackson won the Michigan Democratic presidential caucus with 54% to 28% to Michael Dukakis and 13% for Richard Gephardt. The victory gave Jackson the overall lead in the delegate count.It's a Jackson landslide: He passes Dukakis in delegate tally Detroit Free Press Remer Tyson March 27, 1988 1A, 12A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-its-a-jackson-landsl/183259169/ Newspapers.com May May 29 - Detroit archbishop Edmund Szoka elevated to cardinal.Szoka named cardinal: Archbishop, 60, is one of 25 chosen Detroit Free Press Roddy Ray May 30, 1988 1A, 11A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-szoka-named-cardinal/183254076/ Newspapers.com The formal elevation ceremony took place in Rome on June 28.Cardinal's red-letter day: Szoka finds Rome ceremony 'a very emotional experience' Detroit Free Press Kitty McKinsey June 29, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-cardinals-red-letter/183254241/ Newspapers.com June June 8 - Detroit's Casino Gambling Study Commission voted in favor of casinos in Detroit. June 10 - James Duderstadt appointed president of the University of Michigan.Duderstadt selection praised The Ann Arbor News June 11, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-ann-arbor-news-duderstadt-selection/183255163/ Newspapers.com June 15 - A suspended police officer, Henry Jones, age 24, went on shooting rampage in Detroit, killing three and then killing self. June 21 - Pistons lost Game 7 of NBA Finals to the Lakers.Lakers do it again Detroit Free Press June 22, 1988 1D https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-lakers-do-it-again/183254676/ Newspapers.com June 25 - Record high of 104 for the date in Detroit. One degree short of the city's all-timee high temperature. June 28 - Motown Records sold for $61 million to MCA inc. and an investment banking firm, Boston Ventures. Berry Gordy retained the company's sheet music business, Jobete Music Corp, and its film business, Gordy Co.Motown Records is sold for $61 million Detroit Free Press June 29, 1988 8B https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-motown-records-is-sol/183254887/ Newspapers.com July August August 2 - Voters rejected proposal for casino gambling in Detroit.City rejects casinos Detroit Free Press August 3, 1988 1A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-city-rejects-casinos/183260172/ Newspapers.com August 5 - As heat wave continued, leaving five dead in Detroit.5 die in heat wave over 2 days; County morgue official expects the toll to rise Detroit Free Press Margaret Trimer August 6, 1988 1A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-5-die-in-heat-wave-ov/183260000/ Newspapers.com August 8 - After a 13-week trial, Alberta Easter and her three sons were all found guilty of first-degree murder in the Inkster police slayings.Easter, sons guilty of police murders Detroit Free Press Jim Finkelstein August 9, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-easter-sons-guilty-o/182547473/ Newspapers.com August 13 - The Palace of Auburn Hills, built at a cost of $70 million opened with Sting playing the inaugural show before a capacity crowd of 16,587.Sting Draws Capacity Crowd: The Palace has a smooth opening Detroit Free Press August 14, 1988 1A, 14A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-sting-draws-capacity/183259729/ Newspapers.com September September 5 - Michael Dukakis speech at Detroit's traditional Labor Day celebration in Detroit. Dan Quayle speech in Hamtramck. September - Medical waste washed up on Lake Michigan shoreline, forcing closure of beaches in Oceana County. September 14 - Judge in Inkster police slayings sentences Alberta Easter and her three sons to life in prison and ordered them to be separated for life. September 28 - Detroit archbishop Edmund Szoka announces plan to close 43 urban parishes in order to cope with flight of Catholics from the core city. September 28 - Jim Abbott was the winning pitcher in Team USA's gold medal game with Japan at the Summer Olympics in Seoul. September 30 - Greg Barton of Homer, Michigan, became the first American to win a gold medal in kayaking.Homer becomes Bartonville as Olympic medalist returns Battle Creek Enquirer November 27, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/battle-creek-enquirer-greg-barton/183231959/ Newspapers.com October October 8 - Michigan defeated Michigan State, 17-3, in annual rivalry game.Gillette shaves MSU Detroit Free Press Steve Kornacki October 9, 1988 1H https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gillette-shaves-msu/183231477/ Newspapers.com October 11 - Six killed and ten injured in crash of a tanker plane at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, Michigan.6 die in military airplane crash: 10 others hurt as jet crashes at Wurtsmith Detroit Free Press October 12, 1988 1A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-wurtsmith-crash/183230445/ Newspapers.com October 15 - Kirk Gibson's 1988 World Series home run October 17 - Mentally ill gunmen Charles Knowles kills two Detroit police officers (Lt. James Schmit, 41, and Officer Frank Wills, 39) and is then killed in shootout on Detroit's east side.Springle Avenue Standoff: 2 cops, mentally ill man slain Detroit Free Press October 18, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-springle-avenue-stand/183231307/ Newspapers.com October 18 - Denny McLain pleaded guilty to federal racketeering and drug charges.McLain pleads guilty to 2 charges Detroit Free Press Gene Guidi October 19, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-mclain/183230999/ Newspapers.com October 19 - Judge Carol Irons shot and killed by ex-husband in her Grand Rapids chambers.2 different people -- difference was fatal The Grand Rapids Press October 20, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-grand-rapids-press-2-different-peopl/183230790/ Newspapers.com October 21 - Detroit Lions defensive lineman Reggie Rogers charged with three counts of manslaughter in death of three teenagers in traffic accident in Pontiac.Lions player faces 3 manslaughter counts Detroit Free Press October 22, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-rogers/183230859/ Newspapers.com November right|thumb|160px|Donald Riegle November 1 - "Father Irish", a man who accepted money while posing as a priest at the scene of Northwest Airlines Flight 255, was detained in Canada.'Father Irish' suspect arrested Grand Haven Tribune Associated Press November 2, 1988 8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/grand-haven-tribune-father-irish/183228028/ Newspapers.com'Father Irish' suspect jailed Detroit Free Press November 2, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-father-irish/183228188/ Newspapers.com November 8 - Election day in Michigan: George W. Bush defeated Michael Dukakis in Michigan by a margin of 51.5% to 48.5%. U.S. Senator Donald Riegle defeated Republican challenger James Whitney Dunn by a margin of 60% to 39%. Proposition A banning use of tax funds for abortion for persons receiving public assistance passed by 53% to 47%. Election '88: Bush turns back Dukakis Detroit Free Press November 9, 1988 1A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-bush-turns-back-dukak/183227482/ Newspapers.com November 14 - Wayne Fontes hired as head coach of Detroit Lions following firing of Darryl Rogers.Why Rogers Failed - Can Fontes Succeed? Detroit Free Press November 15, 1988 1D https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-why-rogers-failed-c/183227651/ Newspapers.com November 19 - Fox Theatre in Detroit reopened after renovation.A Restored Jewel: The theater is the star at grand Fox reopening Detroit Free Press November 20, 1988 1A, 15A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-a-restored-jewel-the/183227285/ Newspapers.com November 24 - Crowd at 62nd Detroit Thanksgiving Day parade estimated at 900,000.Magical Morning: Parade crowd estimated at 900,000; Blue skies, warm weather make this year's extravaganza a big hit Detroit Free Press November 25, 1988 1A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-magical-morning-para/183227852/ Newspapers.com December right|thumb|300px|Wreckage of Pan Am Flight 103 in Lockerbie. December 14 - Linebacker Mike Cofer and punter Jim Arnold named to the Pro Bowl. December 21 - Pan Am Flight 103, en route from Frankfurt to Detroit, was destroyed by a bomb over Lockerbie after a stopover in London. All 243 passengers and 16 crew were killed. Michigan victims included: Jim Fuller, 50, vice president in charge of Volkswagen United States; Lou Marengo, 33, executive with Volkswagen United States; LaWanna Thomas, 21, an Air Force sergeant and her two-month-old son, Jonathan, traveling to spend the holidays with her family in Southfield; Arva Anthony Thomas, 17, returning to Detroit from a fall semester studying in West Germany; Charles T. Fisher IV, 34, a London banker and son of National Bank of Detroit president Charles "Chick" Fisher; Gregory Kosmowski, 40, an executive with Lucas Industries in Troy; Pamela Herbert, 19, a Cranbrook graduate who grew up in northwest Detroit, returning from a fall semester studying in London; Mary Smith, 34, an Army sergeant from Kalamazoo flying home for Christmas; Kenneth Gibson, 20, an Army corporal stationed in Germany returning to spend holidays with family in Romulus; Lawrence Bennett, 41, a Parke-Davis manager of clinical research from Lima Township;Flight 103: A Christmas Tragedy Detroit Free Press December 23, 1988 1A, 6A Diane Boatmon-Fuller, 35, a playwright who moved to London in January and was returning for a surprise visit with family;Detroit-born writer sought fame overseas Detroit Free Press December 24, 1988 1A, 5A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-boatmon-fuller/183222744/ Newspapers.com and Khalid Jaafar, 21, a Lebanese-American man.Family denies man was linked to jet bomb Detroit Free Press December 30, 1988 1A, 12A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-family-denies-man-was/183223324/ Newspapers.com The Four Tops (Levi Stubbs, Duke Fakir, Obie Benson, and Lawrence Payton) were booked on the flight but finished a television taping session in London too late to catch the flight.Four Tops' TV taping kept them off plane Detroit Free Press December 23, 1988 7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-four-tops/183229039/ Newspapers.com Births January 10 - Peter Meijer, business analyst and US House of Representatives (2021-23), in Grand Rapids, Michigan January 19 - JaVale McGee, basketbal player, in Flint, Michigan January 21 - DeShawn Sims, basketball player, in Detroit February 5 - Chris Summers, hockey player, in Ann Arbor, Michigan February 12 - Mike Posner, singer, rapper, songwriter and producer, in Detroit February 21 - Grace Latz, rower, in Jackson, Michigan March 9 - Drakkar Klose, mixed martial artist, in Kalamazoo, Michigan April 3 - Brandon Graham, football player, in Detroit April 5 - Alisha Glass, volleyball player, in Leland, Michigan April 11 - Dar Tucker, basketball player, in Saginaw, Michigan April 14 - Eric Alexander, soccer player, in Portage, Michigan April 15 - Andy Miele, hockey player, in Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan April 21 - Jennifer White Holland, politician, in Detroit April 27 - Lizzo, singer, rapper, songwriter, in Detroit April 28 - Laurie Pohutsky, politician, in Detroit May 1 - Johnathon Jones, basketball player, in Okemos, Michigan May 6 - Justin Davis, soccer player, in Southfield, Michigan May 13 - Freddie Braun, soccer player, in Royal Oak, Michigan May 15 - Nikki Nemitz, softball pitcher, in St. Clair Shores, Michigan May 25 - Lee Chatfield, Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives (2019-2021) May 25 - Britta Büthe, volleyball player, in Dearborn, Michigan June 21 - Allyssa DeHaan, volleyball player, in Grand Rapids, Michigan June 22 - Danny Davis, snowboarder, in Highland, Michigan July 24 - Maejor, record producer, songwriter, singer, in Southfield, Michigan July 26 - Zach Redmond, hockey player, in Traverse City, Michigan July 31 - Kyra Harris Bolden, associate justice of Michigan Supreme Court, in Southfield, Michigan August 3 - Ronald Johnson, wide receiver, in Muskegon, Michigan August 6 - Jeff Maddux, football lineman, in Monroe, Michigan August 8 - Robby Soave, Libertarian journalist, in Detroit September 14 - Kirsten Haglund, Miss America 2008, in Farmington Hills, Michigan September 18 - Andrew Miller, hockey player, in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan September 24 - Steven Kampfer, hockey player, in Ann Arbor, Michigan October 28 - Kat Timpf, Libertarian columnist and television personality, in Detroit October 28 - Ian Conyers, politician and businessman, in Lansing, Michigan November 12 - Mitch Hildebrandt, soccer goalkeeper, in Livonia, Michigan December 4 - Justin Meram, soccer player, in Shelby Charter Township December 24 - Keith Nichol, football player, in Lowell, Michigan Gallery of 1988 births Deaths January 25 - Colleen Moore, silent movie star of the flapper age, a native of Port Huron, Michigan, in Paso Robles, CaliforniaSilent star Colleen Moore, Michigan native, dies at 85 The Kalamazoo Gazette January 26, 1988 C7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-kalamazoo-gazette-silent-star-collee/183235507/ Newspapers.com January 26 - Paul G. Goebel, football player and Mayor of Grand Rapids, in Grand Rapids, MichiganPraise flows on death of All-American Paul Goebel The Gran Rapids Press Robert Trost January 27, 1988 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-grand-rapids-press-praise-flows-on-d/183235713/ Newspapers.com February 2 - G. Mennen Williams, Governor of Michigan (1949-1961), at age 76 in Detroit February 6 - Nick Pietrosante, football player, in Royal Oak, MichiganLions great Pietrosante dead at 50 Detroit Free Press George Puscas February 7, 1988 1H, 5H https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-lions-great-pietrosan/183235934/ Newspapers.com February 7 - Henry Scripps Booth, civic leader active in Cranbrook Educational Community, at age 90 in Royal OakCivic leader H. S. Booth dies at 90 Detroit Free Press Deborah Kaplan February 9, 1988 1A, 15A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-hs-booth/183235176/ Newspapers.com February 28 - Harvey Kuenn, Detroit Tigers 1952–1959, AL batting champion 1959, in ArizonaFormer Tigers star Harvey Kuenn dies Detroit Free Press Steve Crowe February 29, 1988 1A, 14A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-former-tigers-star-ha/183236223/ Newspapers.com March 24 - Pete Estes, president General Motors 1974-81, in Chicago April 1 - Sam CohodasThe UP's 'Mr. Sam' dies at 92 Detroit Free Press Barbara Stanton April 2, 1988 1A, 15A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-the-ups-mr-sam-di/183236458/ Newspapers.com June 16 - Floyd J. McCree, first African-American Mayor of Flint, at age 65Floyd McCree: He was a pioneer in a tumultuous time Detroit Free Press June 18, 1988 10A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-floyd-mccree-he-was/183236654/ Newspapers.com August 1 - John Dearden, Archbishop of Detroit (1958-1980) and a cardinal from 1969, at age 80 in Southfield, MichiganCardinal John Dearden: A man who came to lead church with vision, hope Detroit Free Press Barbara Stanton August 2, 1988 1A, 6A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-cardinal-john-dearden/183236869/ Newspapers.com September 12 - Bill Mitchell, GM automobile designer, in Royal Oak, MichiganFormer GM design czar dies: William M. Mitchell, 76, set shapes for America in motion Detroit Free Press September 14, 1988 3A, 18A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-former-gm-design-czar/183237253/ Newspapers.com September 27 - J. C. Heard, swing, bop, and blues drummer, at age 71 in Royal Oak, MichiganToo soon for jazz great J.C. Heard Detroit Free Press Bob Talbert September 29, 1988 15B https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-too-soon-for-jazz-gre/183237614/ Newspapers.com October 19 - Son House, Delta blues musician, in DetroitBlues legend, former Rochesterian dies: Eddie James 'Son' House played steel guitar in clubs Democrat and Chronicle October 24, 1988 3B https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-blues-legend-for/183237853/ Newspapers.com November 13 - Antal Doráti, conductor and composer, conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (1977–81), at age 82 in Gerzensee, SwitzerlandDorati dies; he led DSO to acclaim Detroit Free Press John Guinn November 15, 1988 1A, 10A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-dorati/183238101/ Newspapers.com November 22 - Vic Desjardins, hockey player, in Sault St. Marie, Michiganhttps://www.ushockeyhalloffame.com/page/show/819300-victor-desjardins Victor Desjardins United States Hockey Hall of Fame September 24, 2022 December 12 - Anthony Provenzano, suspect in Jimmy Hoffa kidnapping, in a federal prison in CaliforniaHoffa enemy Provenzano is dead at 71 of heart attack Detroit Free Press Jeanne May December 13, 1988 1A, 15A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-hoffa-enemy-provenzan/183238398/ Newspapers.com December 20 - Isamu Noguchi, sculptor who designed Detroit's Hart Plaza and its Dodge Fountain, in New York City Gallery of 1988 deaths See also History of Michigan History of Detroit References 30em