Volunteers repair veteran’s house in Upper Fruitland before the new year

UPPER FRUITLAND The happiness from World War II veteran Paul Anderson's face could not be erased as he walked into his kitchen Monday.

Anderson, 93, built his house, located in Upper Fruitland off of Old Navajo 36, approximately 60 years ago. But a fire on Dec. 14 left a large hole in the kitchen ceiling, exposing electrical wires and charring insulation and roof trusses.

Katherine Charley, Anderson's daughter, contacted The Daily Times about the situation and asked the public for help to repair the house.

The San Juan County Fire Department determined the fire started when a stove pipe in the roof failed. The pipe either grew too hot, had been the wrong type or had deteriorated over the years because of use, explained San Juan County Fire Chief Doug Hatfield.

After The Daily Times story was published Dec. 19, Ireke Cooper, president of Cooper Fire Protection Services Inc., contacted Charley to learn about the situation and to inspect the damage.

Cooper then organized a group of volunteers from inside and outside his company to repair the house in time for Christmas.

"It's our opportunity to say thanks in a meaningful way because there are not many World War II veterans left," Cooper said, adding that both of his grandfathers were veterans.

His company donated materials, equipment and construction labor, and he also contacted area businesses to see if they could donate materials and time to complete the repairs.

That call for help was answered by Central Flood Management, which loaned equipment and helped with project planning, coordination and construction labor.

Castle Rock Builder Services helped with material procurement and construction labor. Construction labor was also provided by Tattoos with Luster. Valencia Insulation donated insulation, Westates Supply donated a new water heater and installation accessories and Kwall Paint gave discounted paint.

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Volunteers repair veteran's house in Upper Fruitland before the new year