Jim Venneman Memorial Wind Spinners

Friends and family gathered at Noelridge Park on October 16th  to remember and honor Jim Venneman. Jim was the founder and first president of Friends of Noelridge. His dedication to gardening was exemplified in many ways. He was a regular volunteer in the park, being instrumental in the installation of the host shade gardens and many of the memorial benches and pavers that are found in the gardens. Jim was also a member of the Good Earth Garden Club, the Linn County Rose Society and the Eastern Iowa Bonsai Club. His passion for gardening was evident in every aspect of his life. Friends of Noelridge and the Venneman family received many donations in his honor. Those funds were used, according to the family’s wishes, to install a permanent and stunning wind sculpture garden in Jim’s honor. Memorial donations were used to purchase “Double Spinner” and “Single Helix Star.” The Linn county Rose Society provided funds for a third piece, “Nebula.” Together, these three pieces provide an magnificent tribute to Jim Venneman and the many contributions he made to Noelridge Park. Jim’s wife, Helen, and their 3 daughters, Luanne, Margaret and Michelle, along with their families were in attendance for the dedication.