Tree committee gives award

The Washington Tree Committee has recognized 20-year member John Marshall as its 2021 volunteer of the year.

“John’s one of those people where you’ve got the trees all out there, and we’re already to meet at five, then John’s there at one,” group member Rick Wagenknecht said. “He had six trees in before I got off work one day. He planted them by himself.”

Wagenknecht said Marshall had been a key player in the group’s efforts.

“It just seems like when John wakes up in the morning, he thinks, ‘Who can I help today?’” Wagenknecht said. “That’s just the kind of person I think John is, and he’s very appreciated.”

Group member Andy Dahl said Marshall’s background with the post office was evident.

“You have planted in snow, sleet, rain, maybe the dark of night … always with a smile on your face,” he said to Marshall. “The knowledge that you have for every address in town has been an immense help to us.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com