7.2. PRSR 03-14-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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with long wooden poles. One of Elk Rivers finest drove by and shielded his eyes so he couldn't see what was happening. Many beers were raised in celebration of that job done. He served on the board of directors, as president and many years as treasurer of the local club. He was on the original Gaming Board, during the start-up years of legal gaming. Until his death he was the tail twister meaning he put more fun in the meetings and made people feel more welcome. He was active in most of the club's activities and projects and always went the extra mile. He attended the meetings and was a motivational force within the club. He exemplified Lionism in the community and enjoyed service to others. He was honored by his club by being awarded Lion of the Year twice, and the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship. In 2009 he was awarded the Distinguished Leadership Award for going above and beyond year after year. ISD 728 Elk River Schools He helped through out the years his children attended Independent School District 728, and on into their college careers by helping coach soccer, video taping choirs, drama groups, award ceremonies and various athletic activities for use in training, and reflection by these groups (by furnishing a tape). He was someone who would willingly contribute time and any other of his resources as needed—like building props for ice shows and plays at no cost to the organization. He worked the Elk River Graduation Party with the Lions and as head of security (being the co-chair of security committee for the year), and was co-chair of decorations committee for a year. Youth John believed all youth are at risk and we must help those at the edge but must provide opportunities for the good kids to stay good. We must enable all youth to become leaders. This value was demonstrated in his work with youth in many ways. Lake Orono Association John was on the Lake Orono sedimentation task force and spent time and resources in taking samples of the lake water and in meetings to dredge the lake. This was a long time project. It resulted in a much improved lake. Until his death he sat on the Sherburne County Water Board and was involved in the Lake Improvement meetings throughout the state. Until his death, John took part in many other activities with the Lake Orono Improvement Association, including informing the public about the beautiful resource of the Lake in our community and actually giving tours of the lake at our Heritage Festivals. At the time of his death he was a district representative and was on the board of directors. Educating people about the pine tree borer infesting the pine trees surrounding the lake and helping reduce the curly leaf pondweed in the lake were some of his last projects. Family and Friends John's family and friends were an important part of his life. The things they were involved in seemed to involve him. His resources and time were often used for projects that he hadn't been even remotely involved with —until recruited, of course.