This coming Monday, the Perry community is invited to attend a ceremony to welcome the latest addition to the Wall of Witnesses: Dallas “Pete’ VanKirk.

VanKirk will be the 24th member of the Wall, which is located in Soumas Court in downtown Perry. He was chosen by members of the Perry Historical Society, as well as Hometown Heritage, in honor of the work he did during his life to make Perry a better place. VanKirk was the owner of Progressive Foundry, which tripled in size under his leadership. He was also the lead donor for the DMACC VanKirk Career Academy, as well as the Perry High School athletic complex, and he gave $15,000 annually for a need-based scholarship to one graduating senior at Perry. Even after his death, his legacy is living on as the donation that got the Dewey Field renovation project underway was given in his name.

The ceremony on Monday will begin and 5 p.m. in Soumas Court, and will include speeches by friends and family and members of the Perry Historical Society and Hometown Heritage. Following that, the ceramic relief created by Newton sculptor Rick Stewart in VanKirk’s likeness will be revealed. There is no cost to attend and light refreshments will be provided.