Community loses 'truly special man'

OAK HARBOR — Many people, including those associated with the Oak Harbor Apple Festival, are mourning the loss of Roger Carpenter, who passed away on Feb. 3. Carpenter, a lifelong Oak Harbor resident, was 97. To honor his "remarkable life of service," a gathering is scheduled to take place from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, May 8 at the Eagle's Nest Hall, 210 Jefferson St., Oak Harbor, according to his obituary. The festival's Facebook page remembered Carpetner: Our community lost a truly special man, Roger Carpenter, and it's hard to put into words just how much he meant to this town. For over 75 years, Roger dedicated himself to leading our local Boy Scout troop, shaping generations of young men through service, responsibility and community involvement. His impact can be seen in so many of the traditions and events we hold dear. From the Apple Festival to Easter egg hunts and parades, Roger made sure the scouts were there to lend a hand. Whether it was making apple butter over an open fire, helping with crowd control, assisting with setup and cleanup or taking part in service projects, he taught the value of giving back by living it himself. The Oak Harbor Apple Festival, Oak Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce and our entire community benefited from his steady leadership, generous spirit and unwavering commitment to service. His legacy lives on in every scout he mentored and every project he helped bring to life. We are grateful, we are proud, and we will not forget him. Rest easy, Roger, and thank you for everything you gave to this town.