AUBURN – A dream for a flourishing memorial garden at Clover Health Care recently came to fruition, culminating with a dedication ceremony.

Over the course of two years, residents, their families and staff members have dedicated their time and efforts to livening up the garden at the front of the facility on Minot Avenue.

At the ceremony, Cindy Quinlan, administrator, introduced the center’s owner, Bill Gillis. In front of an assembly of more than 100 residents, families and staff, Gillis spoke of the importance of having a special garden for residents to enjoy with their families and friends. He commented particularly on how a memorial garden can serve as a natural and beautiful place for residents to exercise or reflect.

A singing group, The Jubilees, was on hand to serenade with classic songs suited for the theme of the memorial garden. The Clover dietary department provided punch, sculptured watermelons, chilled fruit salads and assorted desserts.

The main attraction was the Clover Memorial Garden. The centerpiece of the garden is a memorial book on a pedestal, carved from stone, that was purchased and displayed through the generosity of residents, family members and Clover staff. The book is a dedication to all of the loved ones, residents and staff, who have been involved with Clover since its beginnings 30 years ago.

The garden also features many flowers and there is a tarred path. The walkway is lined with multicolored impatiens. The flow of the years is represented by three fountains throughout the garden.

The first, a three-tier gray fountain nestled under a white birch tree, is illuminated in the evenings. The second is a whimsical frog fountain with two stone frogs. Finally, a rustic fountain with water from a faucet, a statue of a wise Franciscan friar and another frog lies nestled in a secluded end of the garden.