Four men who have made significant contributions to the rich maritime history of Door County were honored Sunday evening with the annual Mariner Award. John Asher, President of Roen Salvage Company, was recognized as the living recipient of the award. Posthumous awards went to local maritime icons Arnold Peterson, Gordon K. Weber, & Joseph Wolter. Asher was presented the Mariner Award trophy, a hand crafted original work by noted wood carver David Frykman. The deceased recipients names were added to the Mariner Award plaque that is prominently displayed on the second floor of the Door County Maritime Museum on Sturgeon Bay’s West side waterfront.
Museum Executive Director Bob Desh said each & every nominee was highly deserving & the selection committee faced a difficult task in choosing the recipients. The other nominees were Steve Brunstrom, & John & Robert Purves. A joint effort by the Door County Maritime Museum & the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club, the Mariner Award is presented annually to recognize individuals who have had a significant, positive & long lasting impact on the Door County maritime community. One living & at least one deceased recipient will be honored each year. The selection committee chose to present three posthumous awards in 2011.