Friends of the Westside Community Park,
The founder of the Westside Community Park Committee, Charlie Jolin, passed away early on Monday morning.
Charlie worked with Richard Knoll, then the Community Development Director for the City, to secure City Council approval and dedication of the land which would become the Westside Community Park. Following that approval, Charlie took the reins and drove the development of the park.
He personally recruited most of the first committee and board members. He wanted representation from youth sports leaders in all sports, business and community minded people. He was not shy about talking the park up to anyone and everyone. His Bronco hauled many people out for a personal tour.
Although he had retired from leading the Committee and the park’s development, he had not lost interest in it. He always wanted me to update him on everything that was happening. Nothing made him more happy and proud than to hear that soccer hosted a tournament with teams from out of the county. Part of his vision from the beginning was to see a facility that would bring out of county teams to the city and the park that he loved.
Many of you reading this know Charlie and know what he accomplished. Those of you who were not fortunate enough to know him only need to visit the park and look around to see what his vision has produced.
The Committee has requested of the City Council that the Westside Park Road be renamed to honor Charlie.
Dennis