Agway Unveils Memorial Garden in South Dennis


Agway of Cape Cod recently created a new Memorial Garden in front of its flagship store in South Dennis. The tranquil space is meant to honor those employees who have passed away during the store’s 25 years of operation, including the original founders – Roger Wile and Rita Wile.

Agway Memorial Garden

The garden incorporates a koi pond surrounded by colorful perennials and annuals. It also includes a stone bench and a brick walkway, which is inscribed with the names of the employees who have passed.  Among them are Marilyn Leonard (2005), Ray Durkee (2016), Ronnie DiGravio (2005), Sandy Mooney (2009), Sherwood Moore (2006), Dan Jacoby (2008), Don Smith (2016), Helen Newman (2007), Phil Anastasia (2005), C. Roger Wile (1993) and Rita C. Wile (2002).

The Wile Family (from left) Peter, Susan, Jess and Josh

Agway of Cape Cod dates back to the 1960’s when Roger Wile, a poultry and cattle farmer, opened a feed store in Northboro.  The store was eventually passed down to son Peter and his wife Susan, who in 1993 relocated to Cape Cod and opened the first Agway of Cape Cod location in Orleans.  They soon expanded with the opening of stores in Chatham and Dennis.  Today, 25 years later, the store is operated by the 3rd generation of Wiles.
“We are a tight-knit operation and our employees become an extension of our family,” said Susan Wile.  “We wanted to create a space for reflection and remembrance and to honor their years of dedication and friendship.”