Lombard Lilac Parade names grand marshal, honorary marshal

Former Lombard fire chief Jack Jones will serve as grand marshal of this year's Lilac Parade.

But parade organizers also have named an honorary grand marshal to celebrate the life and contributions of Keith Surges, a longtime public works department employee who died in December at age 59.

Ellyn Murphy, co-chairwoman of the parade committee, made the announcement at Thursday's village board meeting.

"Keith's leadership and vision for Lombard during his tenure at public works will be long remembered, and appreciated," Murphy said. "He was a compassionate and thoughtful individual who was deeply committed to his community and to making a difference to those around him."

Jones, meanwhile, was nominated by his daughter, who Murphy said called him "a quiet, mild-mannered guy and a lovely man who would give his shirt off his back to someone in need."

A lifelong resident of Lombard, Jones served in the U.S. Navy and worked at the Lombard News Agency before joining the fire department as a volunteer. He served as chief from 1963 to 1979 and spent many years on the fire pension board.

Jones and his wife of 65 years are "out in the community daily," Murphy said. Jones serves on the historical commission and regularly delivers Meals on Wheels, donates blood and volunteers at St. John's Lutheran Church.

"He is still a man to depend on, who helps his neighbors and represents the very best of Lombard," Murphy said. "We are proud and honored to name him Lombard Lilac Parade Grand Marshal 2015."

This year's parade, which has the theme "Live, Love, Lilacs," starts at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 17, at the corner of Main Street and Wilson Avenue.