6 THE CHARBONNEAU VILLAGER July 2020
SpringRidge at
Charbonneau
By KERRY PHILLIPS
Independence Day holds
special signifi cance for
SpringRidge veteran
Independence Day holds a special place in
Gene Andal’s heart. A retired Army Lieutenant
Colonel, it’s a time for him to reflect on
the sacrifices and contributions of veterans
to ensure our nation’s liberties, freedoms and
rights.
Gene, a resident at SpringRidge at Charbonneau,
says the holiday is a time to show respect to
the flag and what it’s given to each of us.
“It’s always been a special time of year for my
family,” he said. “My wife, Carolyn, and I lived on
a five-acre ranch and our children, grandchildren
and in-laws gathered each year to celebrate. It
was a wonderful time to be together, but the significance
of Independence Day was never lost on
us.”
The Andals relocated to Wilsonville almost one
year ago from California. Both grew up in Oregon
and view their retirement as “coming home.” They
researched seven senior living communities in the
area before deciding on SpringRidge. Though they
were impressed by the picturesque location,
friendliness of residents and staff, Gene says the
SpringRidge Veterans’ Wall of Honor also stood
out.
“There are veterans pictured from all branches
of the military and occupational specialties,” he
explained. “It was humbling that the community
thought so highly of those who served our country.”
Gene’s photo now hangs on the Wall of Honor,
Gene Andal is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel.
COURTESY PHOTO
paying tribute to his 35 years in the military, most
of that time in the Reserves. One week after his
high school graduation, he entered the Navy’s
boot camp in San Diego. On completing his Navy
stint, Gene earned a parks & recreation administration
degree from the University of Oregon, retiring
as Park & Recreation Director of Sacramento
County. He also received a direct commission to
2nd Lieutenant through Army Reserves, where he
spent the majority of his 35 years in Hospital Administration.
Since moving to SpringRidge, the pair who have
been married for 62 years, have formed many new
friendships. Gene derives a great deal of satisfaction
from being with fellow resident-veterans.
“Any time veterans get together, there’s always
plenty to share — from military experiences to
time spent abroad,” he said. “A lot of us didn’t see
combat, but the camaraderie is still there.”
At SpringRidge, the Zest Director Cindy Foster
plans events and programs throughout the year to
recognize veterans and encourage bonding over
shared military experiences. For the Fourth of July,
the active retirement community hosted an
outdoor concert while adhering to social distancing
guidelines. The “Seymour Baker Band” performed
patriotic music and the SpringRidge culinary
team provided an all-American feast, delivered
to each residence.
The highlight of the year is the Veteran’s Day
program in November. Festivities range from
guest speakers to live entertainment and the official
unveiling of the newest members of the Wall
of Honor. The annual “Where Were You During
World War II” luncheon offers yet another way
the community pays tribute to America’s “greatest
generation.” The event coincides with the anniversary
of the Pearl Harbor attack, and resident-veterans
gather to recount their military experience.
“The military was the foundation for much of
my life,” recounts Gene. “It’s refreshing to be with
others who have such great respect for our flag
and country.”
Nestled on an impeccable, 10-acre parcel of natural
beauty and serenity, SpringRidge at Charbonneau
is located in one of Oregon’s most desirable
master-planned residential communities. The
SpringRidge at Charbonneau campus offers a comprehensive
menu of lifestyle options including
CARF-accredited independent living as well as
assisted living and memory care services. For
more information or to schedule a personal tour
of SpringRidge at Charbonneau, please call
503-446-6250 or visit SpringRidgeatCharbonneau.
com.
Matt Harris
Financial Advisor
8995 SW Miley Rd Suite 107
Wilsonville, OR 97070
503-694-1157
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