Gateway to Media's text story was a 350-word feature about a person who has compelling story related to a job, hobby, or passion. I turned this assignment in April 21st. This story is written about George Dull, the Grounds Keeper of the Pioneer Cemetery located in Eugene Oregon on the University of Oregon's Campus.
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Interview With a Caretaker
I knocked on the door of a small 80’s travel trailer Tuesday morning in the middle of the pioneer cemetery. After a few seconds of creaking coming from the trailer, popped out George Dull. George Dull is a 66-year-old with a long white beard reminiscent of Santa Claus. George has lived on the south side of the University of Oregon's campus since 1991 and enjoys his job. George Dull is a candid man living a modest life keeping a small part of this community's history alive.
George Dull comes from a family of 6 kids, telling his boss years later in life “I always minded my Mother, and did what my Daddy said.” George told me as a child he hated mowing and landscaping. George never had a life goal or plans. This “go with the flow’ attitude led George to join the Army to “Get out of the house.” George Dull left the army in 1980 working odd jobs until 1989, then he was offered a job for the Pioneer Cemetery Association. The job offer was from John Thompson while George was a custodian for the Bethel school district. Three years later George would move onto the property from his parent's house. To fill his time George kept his job with the Bethel School district until retiring to just the cemetery. The money from his second job helped him effectively retire comfortably whilst working a job he loves.
I asked Quentin Holmes, President of the Pioneer Cemetery Association, to comment on George. He responded with, “George Dull has been the resident caretaker at Eugene Pioneer Cemetery for more than 30 years, serving with diligence and energy.” Several years ago George was given a plot in the cemetery. This prompted me to ask George about his relationship with death “Nothing I ain't got no [relationship]. I'm Just ready for it when it comes.” Where most people nowadays fill their heads with visions of grandeur, George Dull is content with life. When asking him about the best part of his job he replied “Not having to pay rent.”
George Dull (66) poses fora photo, next to his his garage where he stores his mower and tools.
George Dull points out the a large dent he received in his otherwise spotless truck.
George Dull points out the a large dent he received in his otherwise spotless truck.
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