A 15-year-old Rathdrum resident transformed grief into community service by leading the restoration of Pinegrove Cemetery’s directory building as his Eagle Scout project, a work that carries personal significance rooted in his sister’s final resting place.
Michael Gallus, a member of Boy Scouts Troop 911 based in Hayden, undertook the refurbishment effort to honor his sister Dorothy, whose grave has been at Pinegrove Cemetery since 2020. “We wanted to do something in the cemetery because it’s close to her,” Michael told the Coeur d’Alene Press, explaining the choice of location for his Eagle Scout project.
A Personal Mission Takes Shape
With his parents Suzanne and Pete helping brainstorm project ideas in July 2025, Michael initially considered replacing the cemetery’s war memorial flag poles. The Rathdrum Parks & Recreation Department rejected that proposal due to cost concerns. The directory building refurbishment emerged as a more feasible alternative, and the Boy Scouts council approved the plan in November.
On a recent Sunday, Michael led the restoration work, sanding, staining, and painting new wood for the directory structure. Twenty fellow Scouts joined the effort, demonstrating the community backing behind his vision for the Kootenai County cemetery.
Expanding the Project’s Reach
Beyond the directory building, Michael has plans to add an informational sign for the Chinese Cemetery across the street from Pinegrove. That historic burial ground honors Chinese workers who perished during construction of the transcontinental railroad in the early 1800s—a piece of North Idaho and national history often overlooked in local consciousness.
Several Rathdrum-area businesses stepped forward to support the undertaking. Gibbs Lumber in Hayden, Eagle Manufacturing, and Seright’s Ace Hardware donated materials for the restoration. Awards Etc. is providing a plaque recognizing the Scouts and donors, while IBC Signs is furnishing the informational sign for the Chinese Cemetery.
More Than a Scout Requirement
Michael’s character shines through in how he speaks of his sister. “She was always so happy; she was always smiling. Everybody who knew her was always like … she was such a good soul,” he reflected, capturing the bond that motivated the project’s scope and his attention to detail, as first reported by the Coeur d’Alene Press.
Beyond scouting, Michael balances multiple commitments in his Rathdrum community. He works as a cook at Silverwood and participates in cross-country and soccer. His ambitions extend further still—he has expressed interest in studying medicine and becoming a doctor.
The Pinegrove Cemetery project stands as a tangible reminder that Eagle Scout work, at its best, weaves together personal meaning, community benefit, and the values that bind families and neighbors together across Kootenai County.