Bonner County Gentlemen

In the past year or so, actually even
further back than that, we have been
losing some of the gentlest of men in
our county. And this year seems to be
adding more.


These are men, mostly farming men, who
have always been there for their friends,
family and those in need.

They could be thought of as the good old boys
of Bonner County. But that is used for the
ones who ran the county, sometimes not in
what people thought of, as the best of ideas.

But these gentle men, who were also gentlemen,
were quiet. They did most of their help from behind
the scenes. Mostly without credit given to them.
And they didn't care.

They all have been known to have the greatest of
sense of humor, and laughter could be heard when
they were around. But they could be very serious
as well.

These are the men who in the 30's, and 40's when
things were rough, and money was few, helped
their neighbor. Making sure they didn't go with
out food or firewood.

But now it is getting the time when we are losing
these gentlemen. Harold Tibbs, Dennie Shields to
name a few from the past.

And today, the paper brings Tom DeMers who could
spin a story like no other. And the kindest of all, is
Harry Roberson.

Harry Roberson was the Elder of my church. His old
house is just up the street from me. That was before
he and Frankie moved to Sagle area. He was the man
who would stoop to talk to a child at their level. He was
the man who stood beside you, when life was bumpy.

And one of the nicest things about Harry, was you went
away, with a feeling that Harry really cared. He made you
feel like you were the best of friends. He and his beloved
Frankie were a hard team to beat. Always welcoming others.
Always helping others.

Life is getting sadder as we lose these Gentle Men. These
country gentlemen...