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Western Springs parish, school honors late athletic director
Father Dave Dowdle (left) blesses a plaque during a dedication ceremony in honor of longtime teacher and coach Jim Kenny at St. John of the Cross Parish School on Sunday. On the right is Kenny's friend Guy Vorsanger. | Buzz Orr~Sun-Times Media
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Updated: March 15, 2013 11:27AM
WESTERN SPRINGS — Jim Kenny gave years to St. John of the Cross.
On Sunday, the Catholic Church and School in Western Springs gave something back, honoring the late teacher and coach by dedicating the newly renovated gymnasium in his name.
“I look forward to walking into that gym every time my kids have a game there, and now I will be able to see my dad at each game,” said Kenny’s daughter, Katie Frisbee.
She said her dad coached thousands of children in that gym, and even watched his grandchildren play there.
Kenny was among first lay people to teach at the school when it opened in 1961, teaching sixth grade, driving a school bus and eventually coaching basketball. He retired as athletic director in 2001.
He died Jan. 6, 2012 at age 70 after he lost his battle with a rare kidney disease. His wake was held in the gym.
A friend of Kenny’s, Guy Vorsanger from Willow Insurance in La Grange, donated a bronze plaque to honor his friend and former coach.
