About 20 people gathered at Chester L. Krause Legacy Park in Iola on Sunday, Oct. 13, at 2 p.m. to unveil a historical marker recognizing Krause’s lifetime achievements.
As has become customary for Oct. 13 weather, a drizzle fell. Still, it didn’t dampen the purpose of those gathered under the new shelter at the park: Recognition of a man’s contributions to Iola, Waupaca County, Wisconsin, and the country he so dearly loved and served.
Most of those gathered were former employees of Krause Publications, so each knew Chet, the businessman and community leader. Some were community leaders and Village of Iola elected officials, and others were members of the Iola Historical Society (IHS).
Introductory remarks were given by Clifford Mishler and Greg Loescher, who spearheads the historical marker program.
Below are the words from the historical marker, which was unveiled by Mishler, president of the IHS and former president of Krause Publications, and Chet’s niece Patricia (Krause) Dickhut.
After the dedication, the group gathered under the shelter to enjoy some special cookies and soft drinks while reminiscing about Chet and catching up with one another.
“I’m Chet”
Chester Lee Krause (born Dec. 16, 1923; died June 25, 2016) during his meritorious lifetime evidenced a superlative commitment to “community.” The lifetime heritage he left behind revolved around famiIy and community, embraced military service and patriotism, gathered in the coin collecting, old car, sports card and memorabilia, and other hobby fields, and extended to humanitarianism, touching countless communities and individuals.
Through the years Chet Krause, in addition to providing financial impetus locally for a wealth of improvements – street renovations, village park improvements, removal of dilapidated structures, provision of senior living accommodations, and untold amenities not available in most rural communities – extended his charitable support to humanitarian communities, including the Rawhide Boy’s Ranch – underwrote the Starr Academy Fieldhouse (1997); Marshfield Clinic – a major contributor to the Melvin Laird Center’s medical research facility (2001); Children’s Hospital of Milwaukee – support for the Max McGee National Research Center for Juvenile Diabetes.
A “passionate” individual … Chet Krause was “compassionate” of others needs and desires
… his “generosity” was unbounded … he lived and breathed “service” and “humility”… five commitments that made him one of a kind … a true “achiever” … but most importantly, he was just plain … I’m Chet!
Some highlights from Chet Krause’s lifetime
Raised in rural Helvetia Township, attended one-room Dow School,1930-37.
Drafted and served in U.S. Army Europe, 565th Art\ Battalion, 1943-46.
Homebuilding contractor 1947-58.
Published inaugural issue of Numismatic News, Oct. 13, 1952.
Lake Iola development team member, 1966-70.
Established forerunner of the Iola OId Car Show, 1972.
Named Wisconsin Small Business Person of the Year, May 1990.
Received American Numismatic Association (ANA) Lifetime Achievement Award (coin collecting), August 1994.
Named first recipient of Meguiar Award (car collecting enthusiasts), 1995.
Iola’s Washington Street rededicated Chet Krause Drive, Aug. 10, 2003.
Lifetime Philanthropy Award of Wisconsin Association Fundraising Professionals, 2010.
Village of Iola Trustees Citation, Sept.12, 2016, for uncounted and undocumented lifetime community contributions.
Donations still sought
Much has been done to bring Chester L. Krause Legacy Park to fruition. More still has to be done before the project is complete.
Donation levels are: Legacy $25,000 or more, Champion $10,000-$24,999, Sponsor $5,000-$9,999, Supporter $1,000-$4,999, and Donor $250-$999.
All contributions should be directed to: Chester Krause Legacy Park Fund, The Village of Iola, P.O. Box 336, Iola, WI 54945-0336.
The Legacy Park Committee members are: Mark Doll, David Harper, Jerry Kopecky, Greg Loescher, Cliff Mishler, Pamela Parks, Mark Sether, and Charlie Wasrud.