A new flag flying high above Dominy Memorial Library is a lasting testament to the community dedication of James Paternoster who passed away in 2022.
The Friends of Dominy hosted a flagpole dedication ceremony Wednesday morning, coinciding with Flag Day. Paternoster’s friends and family along with community members gathered at the event.
“It’s been something we wanted to do for a long time,” said Janet Kilgus, president of the Friends of Dominy.
Kilgus remembered Paternoster being hands-on as he could always figure out a way to work through a problem. Mayor David Slagel knew Paternoster for a number of years and considered him his “go-to guy.”
Paternoster’s daughter, Kristi Sutter, recalled the library being a second home to her father. She hopes the community keeps his memory alive.
“Our family is overwhelmed with gratitude and pride.”
Kathy Popejoy from the Library Board of Trustees said Paternoster knew the ins and outs of the facility and was instrumental in getting the updates done. Popejoy explained he left a great legacy with big shoes to fill.
A ceremonial flag raising from the Fairbury American Legion and VFW was held prior to the regular one as a flag which flew above the U.S. Capitol was presented to Paternoster’s wife, Michele, and family. This was to honor Paternoster’s military service as he served in the National Guard from 1960-69. Those helping with the flag raising included Gerry Brandt, John Rich and Dean Lassiter.
He returned to the family business, Paternoster Motor Company, in 1969 and later worked with the Tredennick family at K&S Ford in Fairbury until his 2019 retirement which marked his 50th year with Ford.
Paternoster touched many lives through his work and service to the community. As a board member, he worked to update and expand the library. He was also an original member of the Prairie Lands Foundation and served on the Prairie Central Board of Education when the district consolidated.
The flagpole committee included John and Connie Rich, Marcia Walter, Jason Leman and Janet Kilgus. Leman Builders and RTJ Electric helped with the project and a number of individuals contributed $4,000.
Family members attending Wednesday’s dedication included Paternoster’s daughter Kristi and grandson Jacob Bingham along with his son, Jeff Paternoster and partner Nate Correll along with sister Becky Debatin and niece Julie LaFrance. Paternoster’s cousin Jeanne Kafer was also in attendance.
Light refreshments were served in the White Community Room following the ceremony.
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