OSA, Wilkersons dedicate Ring Around the Rosie

FORT MADISON - Saturday was perfect in every way as about 75 friends and family gathered in Old Settlers Park to pay tribute to one of the original Old Settlers families - the Wilkerson‘s.- and in particular “Rosie” Rashid Wilkerson.  
Having lived across the park for more than 50 years, Rosalyn and Paul Herman  Wilkerson we’re active in the undertaking of many fundraising projects that made Old Settlers Park what it is today.  Their work and lives were  remembered by Paul Idol Wilkerson and Paul Marsh Wilkerson on Saturday. The Rev. Bonnie Wilkerson led the Invocation and Teri Welborn and FM Methodist Church choir members provided music.
Both President of OSA and Fort Madison Parks Board, Jim Decker, and Mayor Matt Mohrfeld expressed their thanks for the gift given in recognition of a life well lived by Rosie Wilkerson.   

The three children playing “Ring around the Rosie” is the first statue of its kind  in any of our city parks.   The couple had two children - son Paul Idol, and Kimberlee -  one Grandson Paul Marsh and two great Grandsons - Chad and Paul Warren, as well as two daughters-in-law, Bonnie and Brianna - all who were present Saturday.  
Old Settlers Association  hosted a luncheon following the dedication.
Paul and Bonnie now reside in the Wilkerson family home.   Rosie passed away January 29, 2025 at the age of 102 years. A fitting tribute to a special lady on a perfect Fall day.