Garlands member, Charlie Foos’s grandfather built a workbench to house the magnificent wood-carving tools he curated over a lifetime. Upon his passing, the workbench went to the only family member who showed the slightest interest: high-school student Charlie, whose only qualification was that he had taken a shop class once.
The workbench remained untouched for 50 years, two careers (United Airlines, 33 years, and Knights of Columbus, 10), and the raising of a family of five kids with his wife Patty.
In retirement, the act of teaching scouts basic carving skills at Camp Napowan in Wildrose, WI awakened Charlie’s creativity. When Charlie opened up the components of his grandfather’s workbench, the sun broke through, and a chorus of angels burst into song! He has been a dedicated and prolific carver ever since and has further honed his art during the pandemic.
Stay tuned to see an upcoming exhibit of Charlie’s masterful carvings at The Gallery at The Garlands!
COVID Accomplishments
Garlands Members’ Wisdom and Ingenuity During a Global Pandemic
Garlands Members are RESILIENT! This “Greatest Generation” played witness to decades of world events, life experiences, and many ups and downs, so a global pandemic certainly isn’t going to get to them!
Each week The Garlands blog will feature some of the Garlands members’ “stay-at-home” pearls of wisdom and the many ways they continue to THRIVE and INSPIRE throughout COVID-19.
