W.F. Morrison to dedicate new flag pole

A pair of new flagpoles is in the works in area schools. 

Troy’s W.F. Morrison Elementary School will commemorate longtime former principal Bobby Coldwell at 1:15 p.m. Friday with the formal presentation of a new flagpole in front of the school. An employee of the school district for 25 years, Coldwell was on his third generation of students by the time of his retirement in 1987. Coldwell passed away in April 2012.

“He wore a suit and tie to work every day,” Bobby’s son, Darren Coldwell, said. “He was very committed to his work.”

Troy High School Principal Jacob Francom sparked the idea for a flagpole about a year ago. Professionally designed landscaping, including shrubs and a large tree, will surround the pole. A plaque will also honor Coldwell. 

Former Troy High School principals David Stephenson and John Konzen, as well as Darren Coldwell, will speak.

“We started our administrative careers together in 1974,” Stephenson said. “And like most friends do, we hunted and fished together quite a bit. He was a genuine man and the kids loved him.”

The money for the flagpole came from remaining funds from Coldwell’s funeral as well as his widow, Carren Coldwell.  

All elementary students will attend the event. 

“My father was a man’s man,” Darren said. “He worked with Troy’s volunteer fire department and dispatch. I like the idea of a long-lasting memory.”

Libby High School also has plans for a new flagpole, this one marking a transition from one era to the next. 

The old wooden flagpole, which stood for decades in front of the school, was finally retired when the administration deemed the pole too rotten. 

“We considered painting it,” Principal Ruth Ann VanWorth-Rogers said. “But it was rotten about seven or eight feet up.”

Jim Ray Construction installed the new aluminum pole and all parties agree it is a fine addition. An 18-foot-by-14-foot Montana state flag has been ordered and will arrive soon. At night the flag will soar above the school, illuminated by a spotlight resting above the front foyer.

Dedication plans are upcoming.