September 9, 2023
The traditional Ceremony of Remembrance at the Military Honor Garden, located on the south lawn of the Edson and Margaret Larson Alumni and Leadership Center at Mayville State, will be a highlight of the Farmers Bowl/Homecoming 2023 festivities at Mayville State University. The program will be held Saturday, Sept. 16, beginning at 9:30 a.m.
The program will include the reading of the names of each of the individuals who have been honored by their loved ones in this tribute to those who have served in the military. The Mayville State University choir will sing “The Star Spangled Banner,” and Mayville State music director Dr. Byron Ward will play “Taps.”
Everyone is welcome to attend the program. Those attending are asked to bring a lawn chair if they wish to sit during the program.
Prior to the Ceremony of Remembrance, the Edson and Margaret Larson Alumni and Leadership Center will be open for visitors starting at 8:30 a.m. Refreshments will be served.
Guests are invited to visit the beautiful and meaningful gardens located on the grounds at the Larson Center during this time. In addition to the Military Honor Garden, garden areas include the Clenora Quanbeck Garden, Gardens of Remembrance, Lyng Garden of Comet Pride, and Jeanne’s Garden of Reflection.
The gardens include architectural features that were salvaged when Mayville State’s historic Old Gymnasium, East Hall, and West Hall were demolished several years ago. These features provide a source of remembrance for many and serve as historical markers for others.
Jeanne’s Garden of Reflection
Jeanne’s Garden of Reflection is the newest of the Larson Center Gardens. Located on the southeast corner of the Larson Center grounds, the garden was established in remembrance of Jeanne (Lande) Aasen, who passed away Nov. 4, 2021. The light columns from the former Old Gymnasium have been incorporated, and stair treads from East and West Hall now serve as benches in the garden. A lovely bronze statue, “Wings of Joy,” features a young child enjoying whimsical butterflies.
Jeanne’s Garden of Reflection is situated near Mayville State’s Child Development Programs facility and playground, a perfect vantage from which to enjoy the laughter of children, something that was very important to Jeanne. She took solace in knowing that children, grandchildren, and the love of family are the ultimate treasures on earth.
The garden was sponsored by Jeanne’s parents, Lowell and Donna Lande, and brother and his wife, Larry and Cathy Lande.
“Numerous alumni and community volunteers have worked tirelessly to establish and provide upkeep for the beautiful gardens at the Larson Center,” said Mayville State University Director of Alumni Affairs Beth Swenson. “These projects provide much enjoyment for all and would not be possible without the dedication of our loyal and hard-working Alumni Association Board members and friends.”
See all the details related to the combined Farmers Bowl/Homecoming celebration planned for Sept. 15-16 at www.mayvillestate.edu/reunion.