In December 2023, tragedy struck our Traverse City office. It was the end of the workday, with only a few staff in the office, when one of them, Clint Motteler, suffered a heart attack and collapsed. Nearby assurance manager, Shelby Talsma, hearing something jarring, went to investigate and discovered Clint unconscious. As she yelled for help, Natalie Flowers, senior manager, called 911, and B.J. Wolff, Traverse City office managing partner, rushed into action. Realizing Clint was unresponsive, B.J. immediately began performing CPR — and he continued without pause for eight minutes while waiting for EMS. Paramedics explained that B.J.’s intervention saved Clint, and he walked out of the hospital four days later without any long-term damage.
Now, B.J. is being recognized for his heroic efforts with the prestigious Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action. The award is given to individuals who aren’t Red Cross-trained, but who step up in an emergency to save a life. B.J.’s actions demonstrate the spirit of selflessness and bravery that the Red Cross seeks to celebrate.
B.J. was nominated for this award by Clint’s wife, Kathleen.
“Plante Moran was there for us throughout every step of this terrifying journey,” Kathleen said. “I wanted to thank the people that helped that day. But what’s adequate for what they did? How can I thank them for giving me back my husband? Then, my oldest daughter had the idea to nominate B.J. for an American Red Cross award, and I agreed that it’d be the perfect way to honor him, and the entire Traverse City team, for all they’ve done for our family.”
B.J. was recognized during a presentation ceremony conducted by the Red Cross in the Traverse City office on April 4 — a ceremony that Clint and Kathleen Motteler both attended.
The entire Plante Moran community is proud of B.J. and his lifesaving actions, as well as the additional Plante Moraners who assisted on that day. Their quick response and dedication to Clint is a testament to their character.
Congratulations, B.J., on receiving this honor!
