Russell and Patsy Janssen

Earlier this school year, Russell Janssen passed away. Shortly after, the school received notice that the district would be a benefactor of his estate. Before I discuss the generous donation, it is important to first acknowledge both Russell and Patsy's contribution to this community and school.

Since I have been in Wyndmere I have walked past a trophy case each and every day. The trophy case doesn't hold district championship trophies or game balls, but instead holds the history of a truly remarkable career in education. For 51 years, Patsy Janssen worked in small country schools and the Wyndmere school district. Think about that for a second...51 years. That is enough time to see three generations sitting in a school desk. Anyone who grew up in Wyndmere had a connection to her. Either you had her as a teacher, your parents had her as a teacher or your children had her as a teacher. Sometimes all of those were true. I never met Patsy, but I feel as if I sat in her classroom because she is a relative legend in this school.

While I know less about Russell, his reputation preceded him as well. I learned of a man who had some unique hobbies, such as his radio correspondence with friends from around the world. However, what most impressed me most about what I heard was his love for his wife. Even after Patsy passed away, people would remark about how his love for his wife still carried on, stronger than ever. This is something that I have the utmost respect for.

But now let me discuss Russell Janssen's will. As many people may have heard by now, the school was a benefactor of a very generous monetary gift. A gift was given to the elementary, in what I view as a gift to the same type of students Patsy called her own for years. The other portion was given to the high school to be used for scholarships for graduation seniors.

It is too early to say how exactly the money will be used in the elementary and to what type of students the scholarships will be awarded. Those details will be discussed later.

While the school was fortunate to be selected by Russell (and I am sure Patsy), I feel it is important to mention one other thing. Having seen the will, I was able to see the numerous charitable donations Russell chose to make in his last will and testament. His generosity far extends outside of the school district. This is yet another thing I can respect about the Janssen's and will ensure the generosity will be used to benefit the students of Wyndmere.