This man’s exquisite woodworks could be sold for thousands of dollars, but this talented woodworker and retired police officer chose to give them for free instead.
East Idaho News and Ashley Homestore collaborated to bring their viewers “Feel Good Friday.” They receive letters/emails from people who recommend individuals who contributed to making others’ lives better. In return, these persons will be featured in their show and they would be receiving gifts as well. This week, Gary Hagan is the “man of the hour.”
Gary served at Idaho Falls Police Force for 38 years. He is a skilled woodworker and creates log beds for anyone who wants one. His pieces of work are excellent. His creativity and attention to detail are evident in his masterpieces. It’s not a surprise for him to be nominated to be honored in this show. Someone, probably, a friend or neighbor, wrote East Idaho News and told them about Gary’s wonderful acts.
The anonymous letter sender said that this retired police officer made a nativity set for a church’s silent auction. The proceeds would be used to send kids to camps. Items during auctions like this are usually sold for $100 or less, but his nativity set was sold at $2,000. On top of that, he creates and gives all of his wood carvings for FREE. He also accepts requests for custom-made woodcraft and does not complain even though, the list is quite long already.
Sadly, Gary has Arthritis, making it a bit challenging for him to do his stuff. Despite this, he continues to brighten people’s days with his excellent wood pieces. Talk about having a big heart for others!
So, Nate and his team went to his house not only to give this generous and extremely talented guy a visit but to also give him gifts. He opened the door and was surprised to see Nate and his TV crew. He lives with his wife and their cute, white pup.
Nate asked him why he is giving his woodworks for free. His reason? “I just do it for fun. Since I retired, that’s all I do. Hang out at my little woodshop.” He added that he enjoys what he is doing because, “Police work had its ups and downs, but this, this is really nice, coz’ I’m no rainin’ on people’s parade.” Gary’s fulfillment is to see people happy. He explained, “I enjoy making people happy, and if they have [an] appreciation for wood, that’s better.”
He spends a lot of time perfecting his craft. He recalled spending almost 36 hours just to finish the angel he made for his nativity set. For the other items on the nativity, he spent approximately 16 hours on every piece. Imagine exerting much effort and giving time for every woodcraft just to give it for FREE.
That’s why he deserves to be honored and surprised with things he dearly loves. Nate gave him a gift card from Amazon. He usually buys his woodcarving tools/stuff from it. Since he does not accept payments from people, he can buy materials, tools he uses for his craft for free. Also, he received gift cards from local restaurants that he and his wife could use for their dinner dates.
Gary was thankful, and yet he remained humble when he received the gift cards. He said, “I appreciate this. This is way too much because..there’s nothing more than being able to bring a smile in somebody’s face.”
This kindhearted man had his share of challenges also. For the past several years, he lost his sister, mom, mom-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, and recently, his two daughters. But, despite the pain and loss, his heart remained tender and ready to bless others.
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
Video not working?
