Dayton Reporter

City of Vandalia recently issued the following announcement.

The award is given annually to a nominated member of the community who exemplifies the spirit of hard work and community.

“Rudy Wells is an excellent choice for the Distinguished Service Award,” said Steve Clark, Parks and Recreation Director. “Through the years Rudy has been a driving factor in keeping our parks and facilities looking great, and in helping us to achieve and maintain our tatus as a Tree City, USA and a Bee City, USA.”

As Superintendent of Facilities, Wells is responsible for supervising a staff that handles everything from mowing grass and maintaining ballfields to handling maintenance issues in City-owned buildings.

Wells’ nomination for the award was signed by Susan Trissell of the Anthony Trissell Memorial Foundation. For the past five years, the foundation has held a series of SummerFest events at Segar Park. “During the times that the electricity has failed, Rudy or his team have been on the scene within minutes of being called to solve the problem,” Trissell said.

A parishioner of Vandalia United Methodist Church, Rudy received letters of recommendation from Senior Pastor Michael Malcosky and Worship Committee Chair Lynn Whaley.

Perhaps the letter that most effectively spoke to the caliber Rudy’s character came from his daughter, Charlotte Wells.

“My dad’s integrity proved strong when he was faced with making difficult decisions. His faith has always been his guidepost. Dad set the highest standard for what it means to be a husband and a father, and he isn’t done yet.”

Wells was honored with the Distinguished Service Award at a February 15 ceremony held at the Scene 75 Banquet Center.

“Rudy has been an outstanding member of the parks and recreation team, and this award is very deserved,” said Dan Wendt, Vandalia City Manager. “Vandalia is a top-tier community with top-tier services, and we are able to maintain that reputation in large part because of people like Rudy who do so much in our community.”  

Original source can be found here.