S. Elgin park's memorial to children nearly completed

It's scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Sept. 29, and the village's nonprofit FUNdation, with the parks and recreation department, is behind the project that ensures those recognized are never forgotten.

The park, now known as Gateway Park, is across the street from Wee Dee's restaurant on Route 31.

It will feature a bronze statue that shows a girl leapfrogging a boy.

Brick pavers are engraved with names and messages that will pay homage to 12 children.

Finally, a pair of plaques installed on benches will carry the names of police officers Steve Abbott and Dan Montag, who died off-duty in 1995 and 2002, respectively.

Originally scheduled for June, the dedication was delayed for several reasons, said Kim Wascher, superintendent of parks and recreation.

Because the statue was custom made, it arrived later than officials had expected. Meeting with the families of the children and adults also took time, Wascher said.

Additionally, the pavers for the children's names took eight weeks to arrive and a stone cap for the park's new brick wall had to be specially made, creating yet another delay, Wascher said.

The park will recognize the following children:

• Nicholas Garcia

• Olaf Hansen

• Alice Hargis

• Meara Hargrave

• Matthew Hodges

• Kaitlyn Hulfachor

• Andrew Nelson Isham

• Grace Elizabeth Isham

• Donna Moore

• Dillon Pierzchalski

• Chase Rumachik

• Cal Sutter

Now, the only things left to do are plan the dedication program, plant a flowering tree and tend to the grounds.

Officials will install the pavers this week and keep them covered until the ceremony. The families of those being remembered, as well as local dignitaries, have been invited to attend the service, which is open to the public. A small reception will follow at the municipal annex.

"Anyone is welcome to come and join us," Wascher said. "We'd be happy to have anyone here."