There is nothing quite as special as something to be a tribute to someone or something. Such is the case with the Little Jon Memorial Park in Rapid City; SD. Little Jon Memorial Park is named after Jonathon James Howe, a little boy that was killed in a gold cart accident. Jonathon loved playing in the park. Jon (as he was often called) was born in 1994 and died in 2003 at the age of nine in an accident while he was riding in a golf cart, something he loved doing. It's fitting that this memorial be for Jonathon.
Jon's grandparents, Alvin and Jean Howe, purchased and donated 30 acres of land in memory of Jon. This is the site of Little Jon Memorial Park. The park also has a large wall, 100 feet long by 8 feet high, called the "Wall That Love Built". This cement was is a memorial for those that have a young child, grandchild or friend. Plaques are purchased and put on the Wall telling the name of the child as well as the dates. The Wall also has a beautiful rock garden where survivors can put flowers. There is also space for mementos to be placed.
Another part of the Little Jon Memorial Park has 9 cabins available for cancer survivors and well as current cancer patients. It's designed as a relaxing getaway for these individuals. In addition to the cabins, you'll find a picnic and playground area, soccer fields and a baseball diamond. There is also a walking or hiking path that goes through the area. Little Jon Memorial Park is a non-profit organization and all proceeds from the cabins goes towards the upkeep of the park.
