Michael Gallus often visits Pinegrove Cemetery to keep quiet company with his sister, Dorothy, whose grave has rested there since 2020. 

That's how the 15-year-old noticed the cemetery’s directory building was weathered and fading. 

For his Eagle Scout project, Michael came up with a plan to refurbish the directory building and improve the cemetery where his family visits Dorothy. 

“We wanted to do something in the cemetery because it’s close to her,” Michael said.

Michael has nearly reached the highest rank in Boy Scouts as a member of Troop 911 out of Hayden but had to complete his Eagle Project. His parents helped him brainstorm ideas in July 2025. They initially wanted to replace the flag poles at the cemetery’s war memorial, but the Parks & Recreation Department informed them it would be too expensive. 

Michael has planned this project since the Boy Scouts council approved it in November with the assistance of Rathdrum Parks & Recreation Director Eric Singer. 

On Sunday, he sanded, stained and painted new wood for the directory building with the assistance of 20 other Scouts.

“It will make it more welcoming compared to how it is right now,” Michael said. “There will be maps there to help people find the way around the cemetery.”

On a later date, Michael will add an informational sign for the oft-overlooked Chinese Cemetery across the street, a memorial to Chinese workers who died while working on the transcontinental railroad in the early 1800s. Michael believes it is important to recognize these workers’ contributions to the town’s history.

“Without their help, the transcontinental railroad probably would have taken a lot longer,” Michael said.

The materials for Michael’s refurbishment project have been donated by several businesses, including Gibb’s Lumber in Hayden, Eagle Manufacturing and Seright’s Ace Hardware. 

Awards Etc. is providing a plaque to recognize the efforts of the Scouts and donors on the refurbishment project, and IBC Signs is providing the informational sign for the Chinese Cemetery.

Michael was surprised and grateful for all the support he received and is looking forward to completing the refurbishment project.

Michael and his parents are happy that he has found a way to honor the history of Rathdrum and improve Pinegrove Cemetery while also honoring the memory of his sister. Michael smiles fondly as he recalls her.

“She was always so happy; she was always smiling,” Michael said. “Everybody who knew her was always like … she was such a good soul. She was always just happy and she was so funny too.”

Although he is a devoted Boy Scout, Michael has a lot more going on in his life. Between working as a cook at Silverwood this summer, he enjoys cross-country, soccer, reading and spending time with his friends. He is interested in studying medicine and hopes to become a doctor.

    Michael with his parents, Suzanne and Pete Gallus.