Today’s day of sanctuary was sponsored in memory of Carlene Olson-Garza by her husband, Tony, and their family who send this special message:
“Today would of have been Carlene’s 58th birthday. She was an advocate for the great work CSNW is doing and an avid follower of the blog. We, her family, mark this day in memory of her by our continued support of the seven.”
As you may recall, as a result of our wonderfully successful Share the Chimp Love fundraiser in February we were able to build the chimpanzees a new climbing structure on Young’s Hill. As part of the campaign two generous families, one of which was the Garza family, won naming rights to the two towers. The tower with the roof was named Carlene’s Tower and the open-air tower was named Jamie’s Lookout by Joan and Pat Borders. And let me tell you the chimps have been loving this structure!!
We here at the sanctuary, are honored by Carlene’s presence every day. When we walk around Young’s Hill with Jamie, we pass Carlene’s memorial stone along our new Memorial Walkway. Just in the distance of the walkway, is Carlene’s Tower. The chimpanzees sometimes take a detour during walks around the perimeter to climb up one of the towers and often sit quietly to take in the view before crossing over and down the other side to resume the walk. The only person we haven’t seen climb this amazing structure (yet!) is Negra. But she has ventured up to check things out and enjoy the abundance of wild mustard that grows below it in the spring.
To Carlene’s family, our hearts go out to you as you navigate your lives without this special woman whom you all clearly love so much. We are continually touched and inspired by all that you do to ensure her love of the chimpanzees continues. As we all celebrate Carlene’s life today, please know that not only you, but Carlene as well, make a difference in their lives every day. And we are so fortunate to have you all as part of our sanctuary family.
Missy taking in the view from Carlene’s Tower:
Annie:
Burrito:
Boss lady, Jamie:
Foxie, taking in the view from Jamie’s Lookout on the opposite side:
Jamie:
Thank you for the beautiful and heart felt words Katelyn.
What a beautiful way to honor the memory of a loved one! Thank you for sharing with the wonderful chimps!
What a beautiful way to honor the memory and the life of something you love who loved chimpanzees, especially the Cle Elum 7. I am so glad to have read the story about how this structure came to be. It is an amazing view and a favorite of the chimps who climb on Carlene’s Tower and are free to stay there for as long as they want thanks to this amazing family and their friends. God Bless Carlene’s soul as she watches this wonder from above.
I have become an addict of the Cle Elum 7 and I look forward to the daily FB postings, thanks for doing that. I have never had the opportunity to see the chimps but hopefully next year will allow me the opportunity. Can you provide me additional information on sponsoring the sanctuary? I love the work you do!!!!!!!
Hi Laurie,
Welcome! Even we look forward to the blogs and we’re here all day. 😉 If you look on our webpage under “You Can Help” it lists a variety of ways to become involved including how to donate, sponsor a day of sanctuary, become a Chimpanzee Pal, or join our Eyes on Apes advocacy program. We also have a Wishlist on Amazon with chimp approved items. Thanks so much for your interest in the chimpanzees!
Happy 1st Birthday in heaven mom!! It would have been her #58. I am sure glad she had the chimps and the sanctuary to keep the light in her eyes in the last years of her life. It really meant a lot to her. Thank you for writing this Katelyn. ??
We’re so glad as well, Lyndsey. All the primates here are so lucky to have your mom and all of you in our lives. We hope you found much comfort and peace in your celebration of her today.