Sioux Center’s new sculpture honors the legacy of local leaders Maurice and Vera Te Paske and points the community toward a passion they lived out: progress through cooperation.
The sculpture in the Te Paskes’ name was dedicated Friday in Open Space Park. Mayor David Krahling expressed deep appreciation for the Te Paskes’s impact, saying that shared facilities used by the City, schools, and Dordt University are one of his greatest gifts.
“These are the tangible result of a commitment to cooperation,” Krahling said. “While those facilities are the clear, direct result of Maury’s leadership, I believe the greater legacy is a philosophy – an attitude – a way of thinking about how to build community.”
The mayor also recalled Vera’s impact on his mindset when they worked together in a community theatre group.
“It was an important lesson for me as a young man about how things get done in Sioux Center,” Krahling said. “You think big, you ask boldly, you lead by example and work together.”
Sculptor William Lieb said his goal with the sculpture was to illustrate the idea of “Progress through Cooperation.” The base is made of three weathering-steel pylons, reaching upward and moving closer together as they rise. The top of the sculpture is a moveable shiny element with diamond-shaped faces.
“It is activated by the breeze – progress requires movement,” Lieb explained. “And the top surfaces have a texture that scatters sunlight and creates a sense of celebration, like confetti. We celebrate progress through cooperation.”
Those present included members of the Te Paske family, community members, and a Missouri River Energy Services representative present. Maury was part of the founding effort for MRES, an organization of 61 municipal utilities, including Sioux Center, which provides energy and energy services to its members. Maury was a local champion for municipal utilities.
The sculpture project was paid for by the City of Sioux Center, Sioux Center Municipal Utilities, Sioux Center Arts & Recreation Council, and Missouri River Energy Services. The project was coordinated by Willis Alberda.