A new addition has been made to the Garden of Memories with a fountain donated by Stark Memorial Funeral Home. The collaboration between the parks department and Stark Memorial has been expanded since it was founded in 2021 with annual donations from Stark Memorial. Shown from left are Park Director Kelli Pastore, Parks Commission President John Panezott, Stark Memorial Funeral Home Owner and Funeral Director Dan Madden, Parks Commissioner Don Yeasted, and Parks Foreman Wes Bryan. (Submitted photo courtesy Kelli Pastore)

SALEM — Stark Memorial Funeral Home has donated a new fountain for the Garden of Memories at Centennial Park.

“Stark Memorial is committed to ensuring that the memory of those we’ve lost continues to live on in a beautiful and meaningful way. The gentle sound of water from the fountain represents peace, renewal, and the ever-flowing memory of those we love. We hope families find a moment of comfort and reflection each time they visit,” said Stark Memorial Owner and Funeral Director Dan Madden in a written press release.

The Garden of Memories was started in 2021 and is located along Park Drive on Bell Island as a collaboration between the parks department and Stark Memorial “to offer a peaceful place for residents to reflect and remember loved ones.” Since then Stark Memorial has donated a new feature each year to expand the garden and “enhance the space and honor the lives of those lost in the community” including benches, trees, flags, and new this year “a flowing fountain” which “honors the lives lost in 2024 and adds another meaningful element to the evolving memorial garden.”

“We are thrilled to continue this collaboration with Stark Memorial. The Garden of Memories has become a cherished part of Centennial Park, and each new addition brings more beauty and purpose to this space. This fountain is a calming focal point that will be appreciated by all who walk by or stop by,” said Parks Director Kelli Pastore.

The parks department and Stark Memorial encourage visitors to stop by the Garden of Memories when visiting the park. Parking is available on either side of the road.