Naselle applauds couple’s ‘cheerful servanthood’

Published 8:26 am Monday, May 6, 2024

NASELLE — The community is saying thank you and a fond farewell to Bert and Carol Haven.

The two have been stalwarts of the Naselle Fire Department for more than two decades. They are retiring from their volunteer duties and moving north to Olalla, Washington — located between Bremerton and Gig Harbor — to be closer to family.

“He has spent more than a lifetime’s worth of caring and providing for strangers and friends,” noted Will Green in an online tribute. “He is recognizable — by his department radio blasting full volume attached constantly to his hip.”

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‘Bert and Carol are the epitome of selflessness, kindness, grace and sacrifice.’

Justin Laine, principal at Naselle schools

Haven joined the Naselle Fire Department in 1988 and Carol joined him in 2002. They were involved in myriad activities, including the team effort to build a new station. Colleagues, including senior EMT Debbie Bighill, often teased him about being a late adopter to technology, then were astonished to learn he had embraced carrying a cellphone and using a computer to chart calls.

Beyond the fire department, Haven has been a fixture at Naselle school sports events, including sweeping the basketball court between JV and varsity games. He is also known for sharing tips on hunting elk with a bow.

Justin Laine, principal at Naselle schools, was equally eloquent about the couple’s contributions.

“Bert and Carol are the epitome of selflessness, kindness, grace and sacrifice,” he noted. “I truly don’t know how this community will function without them. They are going to be dearly missed and leave an enormous void.”

He noted when the Havens responded on aid calls at the school, their presence offered reassurance. “There was not only comfort for students, parents, staff and community members, but comfort for the crew as Bert would calmly take charge of so many situations and offer comforting words,” he added.

Other notables pitched in with applause, including Pacific County Sheriff Daniel Garcia. “I am better having you in my life,” he said, paying tribute to Haven’s mentorship.

Naselle resident Riann Schell summed up Bert Haven’s contribution in one sentence: “He has set an example of selfless, cheerful servanthood for generations in this community, and we are so thankful.”