The Westerville History Museum (inside the Westerville Public Library) recently received a $50,000 bequest from the Vernon L. Pack Trust. Vernon L. Pack was a longtime supporter of history, reading, and education in Westerville, Ohio.
"We are grateful for Mr. Pack's generosity that will benefit preserving history for years to come," shared Erin Francoeur, Executive Director of the Westerville Public Library.
A retired public-school teacher, Pack obtained a B.A. from Otterbein College in 1950 and a Master of Education from OSU in 1958. He was a member of Church of the Master and United Methodist in Westerville, Young Budd Post 171 (American Legion), Westerville Historical Society, Columbus Historical Society and the Amalthea Historical Society. Pack had a life membership in many other organizations including Rotary Club of Westerville, the American Legion, COSI Columbus, Pilot Dogs Inc, Friends of the Westerville Public Library, the National Education Association, and the Ohio Historical Society. He served as an officer and/or trustee in several organizations.
Pack was also the author of several mini books and dozens of articles on Ohio topics. He was especially known for his constant smile, sense of humor, distinctive voice, infectious laugh, a kidding spirit, organizational skills and for his philanthropy. He read each week to an adult day care group that brought him constant joy. His frequent slide shows to dozens of groups helped his viewers gain a better appreciation for the Buckeye state.
The bequest will be used for future projects and initiatives of the Westerville History Museum.
(Sources: Obituary from Hill Funeral Home and Westerville History Museum historical photograph collection)