Family wishes to honor son's passing

by Barbara

Hi Dave, I wrote to you back in August, 2006 and at that time I was requesting a brick be placed for my son at the park in Steveston... and with your help we accomplished this. Since then, my son passed away on December 29, 2007—he was only 39 years old—he had ALS... so very sad.

Now we are interested in a park bench and wondered if you are still the contact? Garry Park is where we are hoping to find a spot. Please let me know, or if I have to contact someone other than yourself?

You may of heard of my son, Lyle Dennis Merner, he lived in Steveston, and his little son goes to the park all the time. Take care and thanks for your help, Barb.

Reply:
I remember you well, Barb, and am glad I was able to assist in your getting a commemorative brick at Steveston Park. But first, my condolences on the loss of your dear son, Lyle. With today being Remembrance Day, I am unable to reach any of my contacts regarding a commemorative plaque on a Garry Park bench. I will do this first thing tomorrow and get back to you with what you need to honor your son, Lyle Dennis Merner of Steveston. Again, my heartfelt condolences, Barbara.

Followup:
Please find attached the application forms for the Memorial Program within the City of Richmond.
 
Please note that this program is on hold until the City planners complete the plans for the Oval project. After that is done, one of the City planners will contact you regarding your application. With that said, you should still send in your application as soon as possible, we will date stamp them and then the planners will go over them in date order. The planner will call you as well, once he/she reviews your application to discuss your location and may even want to meet you on site.
 
Please include more than one location for your choice of bench/tree/table. The most popular locations are done and there is a major wait list of about 10 years for some areas. The School playground areas are a good choice if that interests you and there are lots of schools to choose from in the City.
 
Also, please provide a picture, or drawing of your desired location along with your application.
 
Thanks for you interest in this program.
 
Kathy Lee
Departmental Associate, Parks Department
City of Richmond
604-244-1208
www.richmond.ca
klee@richmond.ca