Lynn and Betty Haag honored

Friends, family, classmates, community members and customers filled the Caraway Senior Center from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, to honor Lynn and Betty Haag for their years of service to the city.

"This is a small thing we can do to show our appreciation to them for their years of service," Paula Hensley, of Caraway, said. "They are such an inspiration."

Betty Haag explained that Western Auto opened in Caraway in September of 1947. After she and Lynn married in 1958 they took over the business full time. Mrs. Haag said although their business has closed, they are not leaving Caraway.

"We are so grateful for the friends and customers that have supported us throughout the years," Mrs. Haag said. "We appreciate them so much."

Family members came from out of town, people brought cards, and some brought deserts to share with the couple. All those in attendance signed a picture mat as a guest book and wrote down their memories of the Haag's business on cards that were put in a box for the couple to read later. Mr. and Mrs. Haag shared hugs and stories with their friends and family throughout the night, laughing about memories of the past.

Caraway Mayor Barry Riley was emotional as he presented the couple with a proclamation declaring Feb. 15, 2014, Betty and Lynn Haag Day. He said there couldn't be two more outstanding people or citizens. Mr. and Mrs. Haag accepted the proclamation and later stood with employees Tim Reams, Mark Shasteen and Ray Birdno and thanked them for their 18 years of service to their store.

People dropped in the community center to enjoy homemade food, cake and fellowship with the beloved couple.