Dear Editor,
Happy Friday! I wanted to bring your attention to a push to save a staple in the Billings community that’s existed for more than 50 years.
In the 1960s Ben and Lois Gerber bought what at the time was only the second swimming pool in Billings, and they did it with the intention of allowing the public to use it. The pool quickly became a focal point of the community during the summers.
“Over the years, hundreds of thousands of kids and families swam in their pool, played volleyball in the yard, jumped on the trampoline, and held countless parties, youth group events, firework shows, and potlucks,” said Chad Gerber, Lois and Ben’s grandson. “They never charged for anything, always giving away candy, soda, spare towels, and whatever else my Grandparents would stock up on for the parties, always out of their own pockets.”
The couple maintained the pool as best as they could for decades. Sadly, Lois passed away in 2014, and since then it’s been a struggle for Ben to keep the pool in working order, but he’s made it happen. Now the pool is cracked and needs major repairs to stay alive. Estimates are $30,000 to repair the pool so it can be used for years to come.
Chad Gerber started a GoFundMe hoping the many people who have used his grandparents pool over the past 50+ years will help pay that kindness forward so many more can experience the gift the Gerbers gave to the community. In less than a day he’s already raised $1,675.
Chantal Oakley (another grandchild of the Gerbers’) can be reached for interviews at 406-696-0212. The photos below, for your convenience, are public and available for use with attribution to the GoFundMe fundraiser.
Jeff Platt,
Subscriber
