Friends of Boxwood plans fundraisers to assist historic cemetery

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 7 May 2022 at 7:21 am

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Mary Lewis, owner of Creekside Floral, shows Rob Klino some geraniums, a typical plant that would be suitable for planting in a cemetery. The Friends of Boxwood, of which Klino is a member, is hosting a workshop by Lewis on May 21, during which she will talk about the best plants to use in a cemetery or an alternate to flowers.

MEDINA – The Friends of Boxwood Cemetery is embarking on an ambitious venture this year to raise money for much needed improvements.

The Friends of Boxwood is a recently formed organization that has a mission to promote and conserve Boxwood Cemetery and honor past generations for future generations, said Rob Klino, a member of Friends of Boxwood.

Friends of Boxwood is also looking for a board of directors, committee members and volunteers to assist with fundraising, gardening and general maintenance, such as headstone cleaning.

Recently, they began brainstorming about things they could do to raise money and improve the cemetery.

One of the most urgent projects is restoring the stained glass window in the chapel. One estimate says it will cost $6,500 to preserve the window, which pre-dates Tiffany.

Other projects are cutting down dead trees and planting new ones and cleaning and resetting headstones.

Their first event is scheduled for May 21 and will feature Mary Lewis, owner of Creekside Floral, who will conduct a workshop on plants from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. People are invited to gather at the back of the cemetery by the banks of Glenwood Lake and hear Lewis talk about plants which are suitable for a cemetery or an alternate to flowers. Those attending should bring a lawn chair and pre-register at FriendsofBoxwoodCemetery@gmail.com. Plants will also be available for purchase.

Other events planned are a Day of Walking and headstone cleaning day, both in June; a field trip to Forest Lawn Cemetery in September; and on Oct. 1, Boxwood at night, when the cemetery will be all lit up, a story teller will be on hand and food trucks will be on site.

Special activities are planned in October for Halloween. The year will close out in December when Wreaths Across America honors all the veterans buried there with placement of wreaths on their graves.

One day a month from March to November is designated as miscellaneous clean-up day at the cemetery and volunteers are always in need.

The public is encouraged to visit the Friends of Boxwood Cemetery page on Facebook for other upcoming events and to stay current on the cemetery.

Anyone interested in serving on the board of directors, volunteering in any capacity, becoming a member or just making a tax-deductible donation can contact Friends of Boxwood Cemetery, P.O. Box 543, Medina, 14103.