Lois Melsen and her family lived across the street from Stolley Park in Grand Island, Nebraska, for 37 years. The park has a special place in her heart and holds many fond memories.
One of the popular attractions is the Stolley Park train, which runs through the park and has been operating since 1983. Visitors enjoy taking in the views of the park and going through a tunnel.
When her husband passed away in 2024, Lois carried out his wishes and donated memorial funds to help improve the park. The money went toward the train complex and the railroad track.
Lois, 89, wanted to make sure the park and train would continue to be a destination for future generations, like it has been for her family.
“The grandkids weren’t allowed to go home until they rode the train,” says Lois.
Last spring, the city held a recognition event at the park for all donors over the age of 70. Lois was honored for her contributions and interviewed by local news outlets.
Then she got to choose her seat on the train and take a ride with her adult children.
“It was a really good day and fun to watch her light up and see how many people knew her and thanked her for everything she’s done,” says Angela Beed, senior living operations manager at Good Samaritan Society – Grand Island Village.
Still giving back
Lois moved to a senior living apartment at Grand Island Village last year.
She and other residents at Grand Island Village like to give back to the community through volunteering and supporting local businesses.
“She’s a very humble person. She’s one who does not give herself the credit she deserves. I can’t tell you how many years she has stood out in the rain, sun and heat to help at the state fair,” says Angela.
Living on a senior living campus allows residents to pursue community service more easily because they don’t have to do home maintenance, cleaning or cooking.
It also gives them the opportunity to take part in social opportunities and other events with neighbors.
“We have a monthly potluck and other things to keep them busy so they don’t just sit at home. A lot of them are a lot more active now that they live here,” says Angela.
Lois is happy getting to know neighbors and staff.
“The people around here are so nice. I couldn’t ask for anybody nicer than they are,” says Lois.
Giving for the future
Stolley Park is located in south central Grand Island on more than 33 acres of land with an abundance of trees.
When Lois’s children were young, they would swim and play baseball at the park.
“It’s a very nice, large park,” Lois says.
Besides the train, it includes Kids Kingdom playground, disc golf, a basketball court, a tennis court, a fitness trail, soccer fields, Stolley Gardens and a wading pool.
Lois’s donation will go toward the construction of new train tunnels with lights.
The park has been in existence for almost 100 years.
“They just keep improving it and it’s going to be really nice with all of the new donations,” says Lois.
