A campaign has been initiated to honor the late community advocate, Myrna Wetzel, with a memorial plaque at Candy Cane Park in Lodi. Friend and organizer Lori Otterbeck has launched a GoFundMe campaign aiming to raise $3,000 for the plaque, which will serve as a tribute to Wetzel’s significant contributions to the community. As of Thursday, the campaign had garnered $1,319 in donations.
The plaque will be installed on November 16, a date designated as Myrna Wetzel Day by the city. It will be placed beneath a large tree, accompanied by a photograph of Wetzel and her beloved chihuahua, Blessed. Otterbeck described Wetzel as “a true pillar of our community, who worked tirelessly and passionately to ensure Candy Cane Park would flourish for all to enjoy.”
Wetzel was known for her dedication to improving the park, regularly advocating for its enhancement. She often walked the park with a sign demanding the replacement of outdated playground equipment. Thanks to community efforts and the passage of Measure L, the playground was renovated in 2019, with Wetzel present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“She was a huge contributor to getting Candy Cane Park remodeled,” Otterbeck noted. “We want to give back to Myrna and acknowledge her for her efforts through the years.”
Following her work at Candy Cane Park, Wetzel continued advocating for other local causes. Before her passing in June, she had initiated a campaign for a stop sign at the intersection of Cross and Lockeford streets. “Myrna touched everybody in Lodi,” Otterbeck said. “She was always an advocate for the betterment of the community, and it’s important to acknowledge people who do so much work for their cities.”
Community members are encouraged to contribute to the GoFundMe campaign to ensure that Wetzel’s legacy is honored. Donations can be made at tinyurl.com/WetzelPlaque. Otterbeck expressed her hope that the memorial will inspire others: “We want people to know if you give back to your community, you’ll be recognized. I think everyone will enjoy it.”
