After Paul Whelan graduated from Huron High School in Ann Arbor, his parents moved to the small town of Manchester in western Washtenaw County where the community has been hoping and praying for Paul’s release from a prison in Russia.
RELATED VIDEO: Paul Whelan officially freed in Russian prisoner exchange
Paul Whelan officially freed in Russian prisoner exchange
“I was hoping it was the truth and when I got it confirmed, it was just like my heart melted. I was so happy,” said Manchester resident Virginia Johnson.
On Thursday, Mayor Patricia Vailliencourt called City Manager Michael Sessions to share the news they’ve all been waiting for.
“I know the community has been strong in wanting to make sure that Rosemary and Ed have that support and have that place to call home and Manchester is that place to call home and I believe our community really showed that to the Whelans through this process,” Sessions told 7 News Detroit.
Leslie Kirkland came to know Paul’s parents several years ago after she opened up Manchester Diner downtown on Adrian Street. It’s also where a customer came in early Thursday morning to share the good news.