On Sunday, October 17, as part of the Newtown United Methodist Church service, the Richard Rauner Memorial Playground will be dedicated.

Since the opening of the preschool in 1993 there have been many fundraisers to accumulate the money to erect a new, safe playground for the children. Many dedicated people have spent countless hours for this dream of preschool director Rahnna Peck to become a reality.

This year the dream has come true with the help of one man, Richard Rauner, Ms Peck said.

“Some of you may have known him as the friendly postman. Some of you may have known him as the great neighbor. Some of you may have known him as a member of the church. Still others may have known him as a good friend,” Ms Peck said. “But Wesley Learning Center knew him as a silent helper. He was always there to support the school and bring a smile to the children’s faces.”

Richard Rauner died in January, several weeks after heart transplant surgery.

“He is sadly missed by many,” Ms Peck said. “But each time the children of Wesley Learning Center go out to play, they will be able to think of his generosity.”

Alumni of Wesley Learning Center and currently enrolled students are invited to join in the dedication at 11:15 am on Sunday. Wesley Learning Center will provide refreshments.