July 16, 2026
Leaving a legacy is sometimes defined as making a lasting impact on future generations through the way you live your life. Palatine Park District, along with the Park Foundation initiated the Legacy Tribute Program in the mid 1990’s. “Our parks hold many memories for the community,” said Cheryl Lufitz, Communications and Marketing Manager and Foundation Liaison. “A Living Tribute offers a lasting, meaningful way to stay connected to someone you wish to honor within the natural beauty of the park they loved.”
According to Amy Vito, Superintendent of Parks, most patrons utilize the District’s Legacy Tribute program to honor loved ones who have passed, but it has also been used to celebrate retirements and other accomplishments. “I think it’s great to have the option to commemorate people and life events with the Park District,” she said. “It connects us with the community and the community with us. Plus, when people choose trees, they are foresting, or in some cases reforesting, our parks. Whether a tree or a bench is chosen, the parks are filled with stories and legacies, and I think that’s pretty special.”
“After our son Griffin unexpectedly passed away, our family and friends generously raised the funds for a bench and tree to honor him and keep his memory alive,” said Rachel Jobski. The Jobski’s – Rachel and Justin chose Cardinal Park for their Legacy Tribute.
“We chose Cardinal Park because it’s within walking distance of our home, a place we knew we could visit often,” Rachel said. “What we didn’t expect was how much this spot would mean to others. It has become a space that welcomes the whole community. When we visit, we often meet neighbors who tell us how much peace and joy the bench and tree bring to their day too. We are so grateful for this program. It has shown us that even though Griffin’s life was brief, his impact is still growing every single day.”
Linda Hall was honored with the planting of a tree through the Legacy Tribute Program. “The tree was actually a gift to me from the Board of Connect to Community, a local nonprofit that serves young adults with developmental disabilities,” she said. “I was co-founder of the organization back in 2013 and served as its president for the first 11 years. When I retired from the Board in December 2024, they purchased the tree in my honor. So lovely!”
The gift was inspired by the fact that Hall is an avid gardener and a quote found on the Connect to Community website which reads: Noble are they who plant the seeds, that grow the trees, that provide the shade for generations they will never know.
“I chose a Bur Oak Tree because it is said to be one of the most beneficial native trees and I chose the Birchwood location because it’s near our home and I take my son swimming there throughout the summer months, so we get to see it often.”
Preschool teachers and families from Palatine Park District raised funding to purchase a bench for a beloved teacher.
“Juanita Wundsam was an amazing member of our preschool staff for over 20 years,” said Karen Rude, Early Childhood Coordinator. “When she lost her battle with cancer, the preschool families, past and present started a go fund me that paid for the bench in her honor. We placed it on the playground at Maple because she spent a lot of time there, playing with hundreds of preschoolers.”
If you are interested in the Legacy Tribute Program you can find information at https://www.palatineparks.org/legacy-tributes/. You will find a contact form and a list of tree options with photos.
“We have a list of all the different types of trees planted within the District,” Vito explained. “The species of trees in the Legacy Tribute Program were primarily chosen because they are either unique or are not heavily planted throughout the District. Tree diversity is important to us, especially after the Emerald Ash Borer. We also worked to include native trees as options, such as Oak and Hickory trees. We will work with the patron to be sure the right tree is chosen.”
Every tree planted and every bench dedicated tells a story of love, gratitude, and connection. Together, these tributes create a landscape filled with memories, reminding visitors that the people we honor continue to enrich our community for years to come. A simple gesture today can become a lasting legacy for tomorrow.
