Meet the Geoghans: A Spring Lake Family Living Life with Heart, Hustle, and Humor
I first met Cori after her neighbor, Betsy Kipling, nominated the Geoghan family, and I’m so glad she did. I was searching for a fun, down-to-earth family to feature on the cover of STROLL Spring Lake’s 4th anniversary issue, and the Geoghans couldn’t have been a better fit. From the moment we connected, they were kind, enthusiastic, and excited to be part of it. We initially wanted to head down to the beach for the shoot, but it was the day after that horrible storm came through mid-May, and it was too windy. Cori offered a great suggestion that we do the photo shoot at the Minnie Skwarek Nature Preserve, just around the corner from their home. I had never been there before, and wow, what a hidden gem! The lush greenery gave our photographer the most beautiful setting, and it made the whole experience feel extra special. I truly enjoyed getting to know this wonderful family, and I can’t wait for you to read their story!
If you’ve ever wandered through Spring Lake on a crisp Saturday morning and seen a flurry of activity on a soccer field or a basketball court, chances are you’ve crossed paths with the Geoghans, a family that doesn’t just live in Spring Lake, they thrive in it.
Meet Maria Geoghan, age 12, a 6th grader at SL Intermediate School and a triple-sport powerhouse who tears up the field, the court, and the track with equal enthusiasm. “We’re so proud of how hard Maria works,” say her parents. “She embraces new experiences with courage and tackles challenges head-on.”
Then there’s Vince, age 9, a 3rd grader at Holmes Elementary. Vince is all heart and humor. “He’s sweet, kind, silly, and he’s got a laugh that can light up a room,” Cori shared. Vince spends his time scoring touchdowns, shooting hoops, chasing squirrels (with Louie, of course), and showing compassion beyond his years.
Speaking of squirrels, let’s not forget the real star of the show: Louie, the family’s French Pointer. “He loves to hunt birds, chase squirrels, and snuggle with Vince and Maria on the couch,” says the family. Every great team needs a mascot, and Louie has that role down to a science.
A Love Story Born at the YMCA
Josh and Cori’s love story began at the Muskegon YMCA summer camp. Both home from college, they met while working with kids, and sports sparks flew, and history writes itself after that. They tied the knot in 2010, spent a decade in Grand Rapids, and made Spring Lake their home in 2019.
Josh, a proud Alma College alum and former football player, now works for Huntington Bank as a Business Banker, supporting West Michigan businesses. “His love and support for his family is unwavering,” Cori says. “He’s one of the most selfless people I know.”
Cori, who played basketball at Grand Valley State University and earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy, works at PTX Physical Therapy in Spring Lake. Josh adds, “Cori’s competitive spirit is impressive, but it’s her caring heart and strength of character that won me over.”
Game Day, Getaways, and Giving Back
Cori is the Varsity Girls Basketball Coach at Spring Lake High School and is deeply involved in youth sports development. She coached the JV team for two years before taking the Varsity position and proceeded to lead them all the way to regionals this year. It was only the second time in school history with a regional semifinal win and regional final appearance!
Josh and Cori don’t just stay busy with their own kids’ activities; they’re also deeply engaged in the community. Josh has coached youth soccer and football, while Cori mentors young athletes through her coaching role and involvement in youth basketball programs.
“Spring Lake has given us so much,” says Josh. “We feel fortunate to give back through sports and community programs that shaped us growing up.”
When it’s time to relax from the daily routine, you might find the Geoghans zip-lining through the mountains, snorkeling with sharks, or jumping into waterfalls in a national park. “We love to travel and explore new places as a family,” they say. And when they’re home, you’ll likely catch them cheering on the Michigan State Spartans, GVSU Lakers, or Alma Scots, with snacks in hand and Louie curled up nearby.
Home is where the Lakeshore is!
Originally from Muskegon, Josh and Cori moved to Spring Lake to be closer to family and the lakeshore. For the Geoghans, living in Spring Lake means more than just a beautiful view, it means belonging. “We love being close to the water, but even more than that, we love the people here,” says Cori. “It’s a community that truly cares.”
From their boundless energy to their passion for people, the Geoghans are a family who lead with love, live with purpose, and make Spring Lake a better place, one basketball game, fishing trip, or warmhearted laugh at a time.