Memory gardens break ground on shelter
Bonner County Daily Bee | UPDATED 5 years, 5 months AGO
Priest Lake Memory Garden board members break ground in June 2020 for the facility’s new welcome structure. Pictured, from left, are president Don Howell, executive director Ron Hardin, vice president Craig Hill, Autumn Kennedy, treasurer Doug Jamieson, Bob Stutz, secretary Dick Hamm and Doni Guyer.
(Photo courtesy PECKY COX)
PRIEST LAKE — An important goal in the development of the Priest Lake Memory Gardens was achieved last month when ground was broken for the the facility’s welcome shelter June 7 when board members gathered to turn the first shovel of dirt to begin construction.
“We are tremendously excited by the generous support from Priest Lake community members,” board president Don Howell said. “Priest Lake Memory Gardens has been in the planning stages since 2014. Early on, a welcome shelter became the community’s choice for an all-season structure to welcome guests to the site.”
At this point, 123 people have joined the Founder’s Circle to fund the structure, Ron Hardin, Priest Lake Memory Gardens executive director, said. Every donation of $250 or more to the Founder’s Circle will be recognized with each donor’s name permanently displayed in the new welcome shelter when construction is complete.
Numerous local businesses have made substantial contributions to ensure the success of the new building effort.
Brian Ailor of Ailor Design created the blueprint for the Priest Lake Memory Gardens welcome shelter. The 600-square-foot building will include a restroom and propane fireplace in front. An adjoining deck and fire pit increase total area of the shelter to 2,600 square feet.
Northern Lakes Tree Service felled 19 trees to make way for Paul Storro Excavation to form the area for the foundation of the building.
“Many of these companies have donated their time and equipment. They only ask that hard costs be covered,” vice president Craig Hill. “It’s gratifying so many believe in the importance of this project.”
Dieter Construction will create the foundation for the structure and Ginno Construction will provide the framing materials. Sandau Builders personnel will work on the framing.
“Completion of the welcome shelter depends on many factors including additional donations, weather and the availability of labor,” Hill said. “We are always open to those willing to help us complete this project.”
Kennedy’s Plumbing and Fabtech have stepped up with help to plumb the restroom and provide the railing material for the deck.
Founder’s Circle donations can be sent to the Priest Lake Memory Gardens, Box 32, Coolin, ID 83821. Checks should be made out the Priest Lake Memory Gardens.
Information: Priest Lake Memory Gardens Executive Director Ron Hardin, 509-993-7143