Submitted
Bill Lentscher is shown with his English mastiff, Hoss, as they exercise using the Byron Kok Walking and Biking Lane.
TOWN OF FOX LAKE - The Byron Kok Walking and Biking Lane was dedicated in the town of Fox Lake on Oct. 31.
A group of approximately 20 attended the dedication ceremony on Spring Road, south of Fox Lake between Breezy Point Road and Hickory Bay Road.
Town chair Dean Streich spoke to the group explaining that Byron Kok had served on the Fox Lake Town Board and died March 24, 2007 after a short battle with cancer. Kok was a supervisor in the town of Fox Lake for years and during that time he had talked about the need for a walking/biking lane in the Township.
“Byron and I had the idea that the old railroad track south of Fox Lake would make a wonderful walking/biking lane, but when that idea appeared to fall though we started to think of another area where one could be put. Both of us felt that Spring Road would make a great spot because of the trees and the rolling area of the road. We felt that the public would really appreciate being able to safely get out into the country on this excellent road,” Streich said.
Creating a walking/biking lane on Spring Road did not happen overnight. The road had to be reworked, culverts needed to be replaced, utility issues had to be worked through and then the proper signage installed.
Kok was heralded as a special individual. He felt “that actions spoke louder than words” according to his widow, Doris Kok.
Doris Kok said, “Byron was always busy with various activities. He was instrumental in getting a pier out on Hickory Bay Road into Beaver Dam Lake. He organized the Friesland Men’s Chorus and sang in it for many years. He raised German shepherd and cocker spaniel puppies for many years and was a volunteer firefighter for 20 years. Byron first ran for the Fox Lake Town Board due to encouragement from his uncle Louis Stiemsma. Byron felt that the farmers and Beaver Dam Lake should have representation on the township board. When he knew he was in failing health he encouraged John Lehman to run for the board.”
Doris also remembers that one of the hardest things Byron had to give up when he became ill was his bus route.
“Byron drove a school bus and loved it. He just hated giving up that bus route, but knew that his strength had been lost and in case of an emergency he might not be able to do the job required,” she said. “It was a sad day when he was no longer in his bus.”
Members of the crowd at the dedication echoed the sentiment that Byron Kok was a special friend and neighbor.
Bill Lentscher said “On a day like today Byron would have been up and down this road on his tractor, taking care of the leaves and keeping this lane clear.”
Streich said, “The Fox Lake Township Board is pleased to dedicate this walking/biking lane in honor of Byron Kok, a true servant of the public and his community.”