UPPER LAKE, Calif. — Last Saturday the Lake County Silver Foundation joined with the Paleno family and friends to remember and honor a Lake County great, Gene Paleno, whose book, “Lake County History — A Mystical Adventure in Time,” is a favorite among locals.

A veteran of World War II, author of many books, and community leader, Paleno was remembered as a paragon of virtue. He gave back to the community he loved in many ways and in so doing inspired others to do so as well.

“He’s the reason I’m on the West Region Town Hall Council,” said his friend and neighbor Linda Alexander.

Former County Supervisor Jim Steele remembered meeting Paleno at a Civil War Roundtable — a group that met monthly to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the war that lasted 4 years.

Himself a history buff, Steele and Paleno had similar interests. “His knowledge of that time in history was impressive,” Steele said. “We became friends and allies in many ways and particularly in our advocacy for senior citizens. He was a founding member of the Silver Foundation and later I appointed Gene to chair the West Region Town Hall.”

Steele went on to say that Paleno drew inspiration for his book “The Porter Conspiracy,” from those Civil War Roundtable discussions. An injustice was done to General Porter who was stripped of his honor and fought for 20 years to get justice.

“Gene’s book is not just a history book — when you read it you find yourself transported into moments in time that shaped our country,” Steele said. “I daresay if history books were written in the style of Gene Paleno, our kids would read more.”

County Supervisor E.J. Crandell said he met with Paleno regularly to review “Gene’s list.” “I learned quickly that Gene was a force to be reckoned with — he was dedicated to getting things done for the community, often appearing before the Board of Supervisors to advocate for important projects,” Crandell said.

Crandell credited Paleno for stopping one particular project — an unwanted commercial store that did not fit with the character of Upper Lake.

Crandell said Paleno pulled the community together, simply declaring, “This will not stand!”

“Of course, he prevailed,” Crandell said.

Paleno’s Lake County friends learned about his life before settling in Lake County with his beloved late wife, Janette.

His daughters Dolly, Christina and Virginia, and son Gene all shared tidbits of their father.

“It was in the last two decades of his life that he really blossomed,” said Paleno’s oldest daughter, Virginia.

She shared a story told to her by her mother. “When dad finished college, he became a teacher and his IQ was tested. We always knew dad was really smart but we were surprised to learn his IQ was 200, immeasurable,” she said.

As for the bench, daughter Christina said, “I can see myself sitting on it, visiting with daddy.”

It took two years to finalize the bench installation and dedication. The county installed the bench and with donations, the Silver Foundation had it engraved with words from Paleno’s family and a picture of his best friend, Cleo — the cat he wrote about in his book, “Cleo Chronicles,” and who was his companion, helping him through his grief after losing his wife.

Many others spoke of Paleno — as a historian, a frequent speaker at civic organizations, a radio personality and as a kind gentleman who always had something positive to say.

Carolyn Jarrett described Paleno as a consummate gentleman who was “other person oriented.”

Ginger Kite messaged to say, “What good memories of a man who made a difference and loved his community.”

Craig Purcell added, “Good man, great historian, especially on Lake County, and a valued friend.”

Tim Chiara, current chair of the West Region Town Hall, described Paleno as a man of accomplishment, vision, compassion and an inspiration to all.

The ceremony ended with a reading inscribed on the bench. “The only thing we will be remembered for when we leave this small blue planet is what we have done for other people.” — Gene Paleno, 1926 — 2021

The Silver Foundation thanks all who attended the memorial and sent messages. “And special thanks to the county, the family, and Silver Foundation Board Member Sam Euston for recording the event,” Steele said.

The videotaped ceremony is available on YouTube at http://youtu.be/tsU43qrDaJ4 or can be viewed above.

For more information about the Silver Foundation, visit the website, www.lakecountysilverfoundation.com or call 707-295-6198.