Marion ISD unveils lasting legacy at area campus

(Marion) — The name had already been chosen, but this past week the Marion ISD officially renamed one of its campuses.

The school district last Monday officially renamed Marion Middle School as Dr. Tom DeKunder Middle School. A ceremony was held celebrating the longtime educator’s legacy and contributions to the district and community.

The ceremony brought together members of the school community to recognize DeKunder, whose influence extended well beyond the classroom and school district.

Among those invited to speak was his son David DeKunder. David says the family was grateful to learn that the Marion community chose to remember and appreciate his father’s years of service.

“He truly cared, you know, for Marion,” said David. “He left a tremendous legacy there in Marion for students, teachers, and others to follow, and that legacy will continue, you know, with the name being with the name on the middle school.”

David shared how his father’s involvement in Marion went far beyond his responsibilities as an educator and school administrator. He pointed to several community projects his father supported, including the establishment of a veterans park, the Marion Community Library and the Marion Education Foundation.

When asked what he believed his father would have thought about having a school named in his honor, David says he likely would have been humbled by the recognition.

“He probably would have said, ‘No, you don’t need to name the school after me,’” said David. “But I think he would have been honored and very appreciative that the community still loved and respected him.”

The dedication also included reflections from Phil Karrer of the Marion City Council. He too was a long-time educator and coach in the Marion community. Wrapping up the ceremony was a tour of the newly named Dr. Tom DeKunder Middle School.