County needs reminders of names and stories

To The Eagle:

I recently learned that Port 2 decided to name the Skamokawa Church building after Carlton Appelo. I know he was actively supporting Port 2 and he really liked Vista Park. Carlton was a fine example of a local businessman who supported public projects. His name exemplifies community support.

Our area needs these reminders of names and stories of those who worked to build up our county as he did, from Wahkiakum West to the Grays River Grange, to the Archives Center, American Legion, and other non-profits in our area.

His appreciation for history can be seen along with Irene Martin’s with the old fishing boat at Vista Park, with the Grange at Ahlberg Park, at the Covered Bridge and Meserve Park in Grays River. His collections at the Appelo Archives Center are treasures that can’t be replaced. His trips to Finland and his education in Sweden intensified his love of homeland. He could speak both Finnish and Swedish. He was a long time member of the Finnish American Finn Fest and a member of the Naselle Congregational Church.

Honoring him is a wonderful gesture. I know all who knew him will appreciate this gesture of appreciation from Port 2.

Karen Bertroch

Grays River