Help Me Create a Memorial for Val
I would like to install a new park bench as a memorial for Val. The Quincy park district has a program to allow families and friends to sponsor a new park bench. These benches are sturdy and truly functional, to be enjoyed by all park goers. The complete installation cost, including memorial plaque is $2000.
I want to install one in memory of Val at Riverside Park in Quincy. Why? Read Below.
The Backstory
When we moved our offices home from the WCU building downtown in 2014 to work remotely, we still felt like we wanted to get away from the office for lunches at least once a week when it was nice enough. Since most of you now know the story of how our relationship started, sharing a sandwich over lunch, we thought we'd continue the tradition.
We tried various spots and settled on a favorite one - the third bench overlooking the river at Riverside Park in Quincy, pretty near the house.
You can see our bench is in pretty bad shape, but it was almost always shaded at the time we went, so we often put up with it. That started a new tradition for the last 11 years. "Picnic in the park." Once a week- weather and Val's health permitting. You might have seen some FB posts from this very spot since we have photos from this bench in nearly all seasons (see main photo above).
It was simple, but so enjoyable to just take a moment to get out and have a lunch together listening to the birds while talking and enjoying the view.
The new memorial benches next to it are much more comfortable, sturdier and will last a long time to come.
I want one for Val. In fact, we still have the chance to get the exact one we used.
It will also include a memorial plaque like the one show above for her, embedded in the base.
I hope that other couples can come and enjoy the same simple pleasure we did all those years. You will likely find me out there on occasion myself.
Let's also plan a little get together a year from now for a late June through mid-July (date tbd) weekend for Val's stone unveiling and include the new park bench and a group "picnic in the park" to be enjoyed by all who cared for her.
If you've already given to her chosen charities, thank you, that is more than enough.
If you've given to me directly, again thank you, I'll put it towards this project, no need for more.
If you'd rather send a check, you can send to:
PO Box 110
Quincy, IL 62306
If we raise more than the required amount, I will make sure it goes to her favorite causes.
Thank You So Much for all your support and encouragement.
~Andy
