Death Takes Respected Pioneer
The passing of Ben Salick, for over 50 years a Centralian and a business man, takes from a community a pioneer who held the high respect of a wide circle of friends and acquaintances.
Mr. Salick, 90 years of age at the time of his death, came to the Twin City district in 1900 and operated a business in Centralia for over a half-century. Until within several weeks of his death he observed a full work day, walking from his home to Tower avenue with almost clock-like punctuality. He was the city's oldest working businessman.
Mr. Salick was often honored by the Centralia Elks lodge, which he joined as a charter member, and he was proud of the organization and of the fact he was its eighth exalted ruler of the brotherhood said he believed Mr. Salick was the oldest past exalted ruler in Elkdom.
To most of those who knew him, Mr. Salick will be best remembered for his quiet and generous nature. He was retiring, but not shy, and he thoroughly enjoyed companionship and chatted with scores of friends when they halted in his shop.
Deepest sympathy is extended to the family of the pioneer, and for downtown Centralia there will remain for many years the memory of a familiar figure who enjoyed his work, looked upon everyone as his friend and saw his city grow through a half-century.
Source: The Daily Chronicle, Centralia, Lewis Co., WA. 3 Jul 1954, page 4.
Transcribed by Diana Smith. She has no further information on this individual.