Duncanville » News

By DANIELLE PARKER
Wednesday, May 14, 2008 2:42 PM CDT

News Editor

Duncanville lost a legend and a visionary when longtime resident and business leader Wes Jespersen died April 2.

Although he is no longer alive, a recent city council decision will ensure that his name continues for generations to come.

May 6, the city council unanimously voted to rename East Orange Street to Wes Jespersen Way to honor the community leader.

Also a civic leader, Jespersen was the founder of Ben Franklin Apothecary at 106 S. Main St. Now, the two-block area of East Orange Street which passes alongside Ben Franklin will commemorate its founder.

Shortly after Jespersen's death, Councilmember Dorothy Burton approached the Jespersen family and the council with the idea of memorializing a legendary member of the community.

“Getting to know Wes and his heart for the city, this is fitting,” Burton said. “When you look at the people who really built this city, these people do not get the recognition they truly deserve.

“Although Jespersen has passed, his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of all who pass through this street.”

Before the decision was made, a public hearing was held to allow the community voice its opinion concerning the name change.

“I am so for this,” resident Claudia Zakutney said. “Wes was such a mainstay in this community. I cannot think of a more wonderful way to celebrate his life and honor him.”

Several members of the community spoke favorably about the renaming. The city also accepted 23 comments from the city website, 18 for and five against.

“As a business owner, I had a lot of respect for him,” resident and business owner Allen Conley said. “I think he was the heart of Duncanville. The commemoration really speaks highly not only of the city, but also shows a lot about the city itself.”

Members of the community testified how Jespersen had been a principal champion among a city of champions.

“As a citizen of Duncanville, I look for heroes,” resident Lynn McGinley said. “He really had a vision for Duncanville, and at a time where we need heroes more than ever, this is a way that we can show our young people what a hero really is.”

The Jespersen family was present at the council meeting to express their gratitude to the city for making such a meaningful tribute on Jespersen's behalf.

“I would think that he would be very please with this,” Wes' son Dan Jespersen said. “Our family has been comforted by the thoughts and prayers of the community. This would be a real tribute to him and a real reminder to the family and those who knew him. We appreciate your caring and compassion.”

Burton reminded the public as the city moves forward to keep people, like Wes and those who made the city what it is today, in their hearts.

“While we are busy planning for the future it is appropriate to honor those who developed this community,” Burton said. “I hope we do not forget those who have gone before us.”

Assistant City Manager Jeanne Fralicks said the unveiling of the new street sign at Main Street and Wes Jespersen Way is tentatively set for June 4 at 10:30 a.m.

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