Class of 1965 Donates Picnic Tables to Norris Park in Memory of Classmates

September 17, 2025

McCOOK, Neb. — The McCook High School Class of 1965 has come together to honor two of their classmates in a lasting way. As part of their reunion during Heritage Days, members of the class dedicated two new picnic tables in Norris Park in memory of Ernest “Ernie” Weyeneth and Garrett Wagner.

Classmates first set out to recognize Ernie, who passed away in 2022 after a long career in business and community service. When the idea of a picnic table came up, they also reached out to Chris Wagner, Garrett’s son, to ask if he would like to see one placed in memory of his dad. He agreed, and soon the project grew to include both classmates.

Friends remembered Ernie as someone who could “sell a three-piece suit to a farmer” and who kept the town lively in his younger years by helping organize dances and booking bands. He went on to build a successful career as a stockbroker while always remaining connected to his roots in southwest Nebraska.

Garrett, who served in the Navy, was described by classmates as “the real deal” — a person everyone liked and who was quick to befriend others. Though his life was cut tragically short in a motorcycle accident, classmates recalled how his wide circle of friends and kind nature left a lasting impression.

To make the memorial tables accessible, the class also arranged for concrete pads so people using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers could easily gather there. The cost of the concrete was covered with help from the McCook Community Foundation Fund through a flash grant, ensuring the project was finished in time for Heritage Days.

Mayor Linda Taylor, a fellow member of the Class of ’65, noted that the tables replace older ones in the park and will serve the community for years to come. “We hope this inspires others to consider giving back in similar ways,” she said, pointing to possibilities for additional memorials at parks, ball fields, or the swimming pool.

The dedication took place this week as classmates gathered for their reunion, blending fond memories of old friends with a gift that will continue serving families and visitors in Norris Park for generations.

Senior photos of classmates Ernest “Ernie” Weyeneth (left) and Garrett Wagner (right), McCook High School Class of 1965.

Classmates and family gathered at Norris Park for the dedication of two new picnic tables in their memory.

Front row, from left: Rhonda Graff and Cindy Huff of the McCook Community Foundation, Linda Taylor and Gary Grim of the Class of ’65.

Back row, from left: Chris Wagner and son Chandler Wagner, Dick Johnson and Warren Jones, both of the Class of ’65.