EDITORIAL: 'Out of these ashes beauty will rise'

One year ago, on Labor Day weekend, we lost one of our most beloved institutions, the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse. The fire happened as staff members were preparing for an employee barbecue. It went up quickly and could not be saved, despite some heroic efforts.

The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office later said a grease accumulation was the cause of the fire that destroyed the iconic steakhouse. For many, it was a heartbreaking loss. For more than four decades, it faithfully served locals and visitors from across the nation. 

There was, and still is, hope that it may rise again. Of course, it could never be the same. The rustic restaurant was one of a kind. But a year later, the Wolf Lodge's former home 8 miles east of Coeur d'Alene sits vacant.

Employees, some who worked there for more than 20 years, gradually drifted away. It was a difficult departure. They spoke of the family-like environment, the camaraderie, the loyal customers, the satisfaction of a job well done. They were good times with good people.

One of those people was Darryl Rodriguez, who was a cook, chef and held other positions over 14 years. His last day was the day the Wolf Lodge burned.

"I loved what I did," he said. "It's a skill to work that grill."

He chatted with customers, who often had questions about recipes.

"What is Wolf Lodge's secret?"

"I can't tell you," a smiling Rodriguez would answer.

After the fire, there was shock and disbelief. Physically, everyone was OK. Mentally and emotionally, not so much. It was particularly tough for Rodriguez, who was living on site at the time.

Where to go? What to do?

"I panicked, I guess you could say," Rodriguez said. "I shut down."

He heard from some of his Wolf Lodge family when he was going through medical challenges.

"They were there for me when I needed help," Rodriguez said. "They carried me through the low point and celebrated the high points."

Then came the realization, life would go on without the Wolf Lodge because the people remained.

He moved on, landed another good job with benefits, found a place to live. He met new people, made new friends. 

"A lot of blessings came out of the tragedy," Rodriguez said.

Funny how that happens. 

There is a quote by Steven Curtis Chapman, "Out of these ashes beauty will rise."

It's already happening.