On the one year anniversary of his death, James Elementary honored one of their own today during a brief presentation on the playground.
A former James parent, neighbor, grandparent, and school supporter, Dennis Moss, was remembered today as memorial playground equipment was dedicated in his name.
Moss, a 1974 graduate of Ottumwa High School, lived down the street from James. His kids attended school at James and when it came time for his grandchildren to start school, the parents wanted them at James too. The granddaughter walked up the hill with her grandfather daily. He also came up at lunch time and played with her and other students during recess. His wife, Nancy, shared that one of his favorite moments at James was when he was asked to be one of Santa’s helpers, listening to what students wanted for Christmas.
When he became sick, he wanted to do something for the school. After his death, his family set up a memorial to James Elementary. His granddaughter suggested that the funds be used for playground equipment, such as balls, jump ropes, etc. “It was a place that brought him great joy,” said his wife, Nancy. “A place that always made him smile.”
The family of Dennis Moss was on hand to help celebrate the donation of recess equipment to the school.