More than 100 people gathered inside the Lakeview Fire Department Sunday, March 16, to remember, reflect and support one another on the one-year anniversary of the March 14, 2024, EF3 tornado.
The ceremony began with Lakeview Mayor Elaine Fagan-Moore introducing Pastor Gregory Wack from Christ United Methodist Church to offer the opening prayer.
After the prayer, guests were treated to four song performances by the fifth- and sixth-grade Indian Lake Show Choir.
Mayor Fagan-Moore then spoke on resilience, hope and love and reflected on the night of the tornado and the days that followed.
The mayor presented two plaques. The first plaque was presented to the village administrator and his staff, thanking them for their hard work and dedication the evening of the tornado and recovery efforts that followed. The second plaque was presented to the Lakeview first responders, with Assistant Fire Chief Joe Ferryman speaking on behalf of the Lakeview Fire Department.
He thanked his department for their hard work and long hours in the aftermath of the tornado.
Fagan-Moore also took a moment to thank the many good samaritans and citizens who stepped up and helped out that night and the days that followed.
After Assistant Chief Ferryman spoke, Lakeview Village Council members Mel Rotroff shared some thoughtful words and memories of the late Darla Williams. Fellow council member Sandy Knott reflected on the devastation one year ago and spoke fondly of the late Marilyn Snapp and memories of her.
The microphone was then turned back over to the mayor, who spoke about Darla, age 70, and Marilyn, age 81, and their lives and impact. The two women were best of friends and had known each other for many years.
Fagan-Moore then shared about the trees that will be planted in their memory at the park on Lake Street that is located behind the baptist church.
The village is hoping to plant the trees in April, depending on weather conditions. The trees will be displayed with a memorial plaque for each of ladies.
At the conclusion of the gathering, every family in attendance was given the option to put their name on an index card for a drawing. The drawing was for the chance at one of 14 stained glass pieces that were generously donated and created by local residents Arno Klauss and Ginna Viveros.
All of the special stained glass pieces were given away to the participants at the ceremony. The drawing concluded the ceremony and Pastor Gregory Wack gave the closing prayer.
Guests were invited to stay and enjoy fellowship and light refreshments that were provided by the Amvets Post 39 Ladies Auxiliary.
