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In memory of Carlene Olsen-Garza

September 13, 2023 by Katelyn -

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Our heartfelt gratitude to long-time supporter of the sanctuary, Joseph Garza, for sponsoring this day of sanctuary in memory of his late wife, Carlene, who loved the chimpanzees so.

“In memory of my late wife, Carlene K. Olsen-Garza on what would have been her 66th birthday. Carlene fell in love with the chimps when there were only seven and followed their adventures until the end. She loved to hear about what Jamie, Foxie and Burrito (her favorites) were up to and dreamed of one day visiting the sanctuary to see them in-person. That was not to be, but I was bestowed that privilege the year after her passing. Thank you CSNW.”

Thank you for allowing the chimpanzees (and us all) to be part of Carlene’s beautiful legacy, Joseph. We’re honored that her loving heart and memory continue to dwell here at the sanctuary, bringing so much to the chimpanzees’ lives.

Jamie:

Jamie in Carlene’s Tower:

Burrito:

Jamie, Foxie and Burrito (Carlene’s Tower in the background):

Foxie:

Missy, Foxie and Jamie in Carlene’s Tower, in it’s new location under the pines since the Young’s Hill expansion last autumn:

10 Comments

  1. Avatar Kathleen on September 13, 2023 at 9:15 am

    Many of my favorite photos of the Cle Elum Seven are taken of them, together and individually, standing on Carlene’s Tower. The angle of the camera, looking upwards, makes it appear as if they are on top of the world, heads in the clouds. Such a beautiful tribute.



    • Avatar Linda C on September 13, 2023 at 10:12 am

      Those, and Missy and Annie in the shade of the tower, the sun filtering through the slats and creating lines on their shaded profiles, and Annie reaching out one of her long, slender hands to touch Missy’s shoulder



  2. Avatar Don on September 13, 2023 at 9:37 am

    Joseph, what a wonderful way to honor the memory of Carlene’s birthday ….She knows!
    I’m sure the chimps gave her many wonderful memories ….I’m sure she was with you when you visited!



  3. Avatar Linda C on September 13, 2023 at 10:10 am

    So young….thank you, Joseph. I do indeed think, every time I see it, “Carlene’s (and Jamie’s) tower”.



  4. Avatar Paulette on September 13, 2023 at 11:45 am

    I love Carlene’s Tower photos! I hadn’t known until now who Carlene’s Tower was named for. Now it will hold so much more meaning for me. Thank you so much Don, and Carlene.



    • Avatar Paulette on September 13, 2023 at 12:23 pm

      My apologies! That should say Joseph, not Don.



  5. Avatar Tobin on September 13, 2023 at 12:20 pm

    Thank you, Joseph, for your gift in honor of Carlene. Please understand that the tower named in Carlene’s memory has been put to very enjoyable use by those who range over Young’s Hill. I will long treasure the photographs of Negra sitting atop her royal vantage point last March, her ascent encouraged by her dear friend Jody. Negra’s adventure wouldn’t have been possible without your donation. On behalf of the Queen and her subjects past and present, we thank you on Carlene’s birthday.



    • Avatar Marie on September 13, 2023 at 4:52 pm

      I Love that it gave Carlene Joy:rose:….it truly is the Simple Things in life…I call it the Carlenes ******* “Senior” Tower….perfect height and shade for our Senior Chimps… makes them feel like they still got it… without all the hard work to ascend:laughing: and a Beautiful View to boot….



  6. Avatar Marie on September 13, 2023 at 5:36 pm

    Yes, Tobin…. Beautifully Said.:hugging:… Carlenes Tower has given the Chimps
    Peace …Solace..Play ..and Camaraderie…Special Times and Memories.Thank You, for so many Gifts along the Way…You Both are Loved for all your Kindness. Sorry for your Loss…:rose:



  7. Avatar Adrienne on September 14, 2023 at 6:54 am

    Beautiful deeds, beautiful words and beautiful photos. Thank you Joseph and Carlene, thank you sanctuary staff and, last but not least, thank you chimps.



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