When asked about the impact of John Seibert during his 34 years of service at Valpo Parks, several will point to his consistent support, gentle leadership, and passion for parks as significant contributors to his legacy. Seibert, however, would hate to use the term legacy to describe his decades of work within the City of Valparaiso.
For him, every project he’s taken on has been the result of a group effort among talented individuals who care just as deeply about the parks as he does.
“Today it is my goal to thank you for the many blessings of your friendship and the privilege to serve in our community together,” Seibert said.
To honor Seibert’s decades of service, a retirement party was hosted Wednesday, July 12 at Urschel Pavillion and featured food, drinks, dessert, and heartfelt speeches from family and colleagues including City of Valparaiso Mayor Matt Murphy and Former Mayor Jon Costas.
Those who have worked with him, whether for decades or for a short time, were eager to share stories of the passion Seibert has for the City of Valparaiso. In his 34 years of leadership, Seibert changed the landscape of Valparaiso in several ways and has left the city stronger and more beautiful than ever before.
“John has left an indelible mark on our community, transforming our parks into cherished spaces of joy, recreation, and tranquility. John's vision was instrumental in the creation and development of numerous park initiatives that have become beloved landmarks within our city,” City Administrator Bill Oeding said.
Seibert has managed to accomplish an impressive amount during his 34 years on the job. Today, it’s nearly impossible to travel through Valparaiso without seeing the handiwork of Seibert and his team.
“It's really difficult to drive through the city and not have a major project that John had an impact or put his thumbprint on staring you in the face,” Valpo Parks Foundation President Tim VerSchure said.
Seibert made it his mission to know exactly what the community needed and worked tirelessly to make it happen. Under his leadership, the City created two versions of ValPlayso, constructed the Northwest Health Amphitheater, the William E. Urschel Pavillion, Central Park Plaza, and much more – each with a clear plan of who it would serve and how it would benefit the community.
“John's leadership ensured that our parks offer something for everyone; embracing the culture of our community and fostering community among its residents. However, John's greatest achievement was not just as a direct supporter of our products, but in the hearts and minds of those who he inspired,” Oeding said.
In the same way that Seibert dedicated his life’s work to the City of Valparaiso, the City returned the favor whenever it had the opportunity. Through every struggle, Seibert and his family knew they could rely on the community for comfort and guidance.
“It has been such a pleasure to grow up in Valpo and to have the support of the parks and the city through all of the trials and tribulations that our family has gone through. We are truly grateful for everything,” Chris Seibert, John Seibert’s son, said.
Seibert’s retirement party was nothing short of spectacular, and people gathered from all over the country to celebrate this milestone achievement. Relatives and friends made journeys from Texas, Colorado, and other states to show their appreciation of Seibert. Attendee Carol Costakis worked under Seibert for many years with Valpo Parks, and although it meant flying in from Colorado, Costakis felt it was worth the trek.
“He'll hate the word legacy, but his good works, his servant leadership, his selfless contribution to the community, and what he has made possible by bringing the right people together has built a better Valparaiso. The parks are here because of a great team, but they’re even better because of the leadership under John,” Costakis said.
To learn more about Valpo Parks, visit https://www.valpoparks.org/.