Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, April 15, 1993 TAG: 9304150112
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV2 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: RICK LINDQUIST STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: DUBLIN LENGTH: Medium
TOWN MOURNS RECREATION SUPPORTER
Town Council will formally recognize and remember Dublin Recreation Corporation President Si Rasnake's many community contributions, something town officials had wanted to do while he was alive.But for now, his family, friends and Dublin officials still are coming to grips with his loss. A prime supporter of Dublin's recreation programs and a prominent Lion's Club member, Rasnake died of cancer Sunday.
He was 66.
"It's hard to explain what Si really meant to Dublin," Mayor Benny Keister said. "You can't replace a person like that."
Town Council is expected to approve a resolution honoring Rasnake at its regular meeting tonight.
Keister described Rasnake as a tireless worker who devoted countless hours to Dublin's recreation program as both an organizer and a coach.
When Pulaski County adopted a countywide rec program, Rasnake fought to retain local identity and control of Dublin recreation programs.
Ironically, during the same meeting it will recognize Rasnake, Town Council will consider approving a new countywide recreation contract. Rasnake sometimes battled with town officials to make changes to the regional agreement.
Keister said he had spoken with Rasnake about the latest version and believes he would have gone along with the compromise.
"I think he knew all of us were behind him," Keister said. "He was a gentleman above all."
Rasnake carried his love for recreation programs over into his Lion's Club activities. He was a prime mover behind the Lion's Club project that planned and built playing fields, basketball goals and a jogging track across from Dublin Elementary School, not far from Rasnake's home.
Rasnake also was heavily involved in the Lion's Club's flea market and crafts fair at the New River Valley Fairgrounds. He was a familiar presence at the twice-yearly events.
Town Administrator Gary Elander also had words of praise for Rasnake, citing his long dedication to Dublin's recreation programs.
"The program has grown in great measure due to his efforts," he said.
Keister summed up his feelings this way: "He stood strong. He's going to be missed."
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