IN MEMORIAM — Marilyn Smith, center, holds the plaque which will be erected at NRHEG School in her late husband Tom’s memory. Surrounding family includes, from left, Kay Smith, Scott Smith, Rod Smith and Rita Smith. Tom Smith was a longtime teacher, coach and athletic director at the local school. (Submitted photo)
Plaque to honor former teacher, coach, athletic director
By JODY WYNNEMER
Staff Writer
Many who knew Tom Smith remember his devotion to his community and the student athletes he mentored for 50 some years. The New Richland-Hartland High School Class of 1967 wanted to do something to honor their former teacher, coach and athletic director. They came up with the idea to have a plaque made as well as donating some plants in Mr. Smith’s memory. The plants and plaque will be located under the electronic sign at NRHEG which is adjacent to the parking lot.
“Considering what a legend he was and how he contributed to the school district and community even after he retired, I thought it would be appropriate to do something for him,” said Denny Prescher, a member of the Class of 1967. “The classmates I contacted agreed it would be a great idea. I checked with Shelly [Moxon] and she agreed to pick out the plants and the class would provide the funds for the plants and plaque.”
“The plants in memory of Uncle Tom will be two Prince William Wigelas and one mock orange tree,” said Michelle Moxon, Smith’s niece.
The plaque is inscribed as follows:
In Memory of Thomas J. Smith
1930-2009
A graduate of New Richland-Hartland High School in 1948, Tom was a standout in basketball and football. After a short stint in the U. S. Navy, he graduated from college and from then on devoted his life to teaching and coaching.
Tom was involved in directing MSHSL Athletic Programs for over 50 years and since 1957 served NRHEG and the Gopher Conference.
Given by the Class of 1967
“My favorite memory of Tom comes from a pep rally in the mid '60s,” said Prescher. “He described the new season’s football team as ‘We may be small, but we’re slow!’I think that was a perfect example of his charm and humor. As a teacher, he motivated his students with tough love and humor, I never saw him lose his temper.”
“I’m very appreciative that the Class of 1967 did this in memory of Tom,” said Marilyn Smith. “In fact, the whole family is. To be remembered for all he did for sports and the school. It means alot to all of us.”
