Honoring a Legend: Jim Dusek Memorial Bench and Uniforms Unveiled at Excelsior Springs High School

*Tiger Seniors, Brendan Blackburn, Lucas Dillman, Broc Dusek, Colson Moore, and Mason Danner proudly sport their new uniforms (photo S Jason Cole).*

The Excelsior Springs Baseball program has received a generous boost of over $12,000 through a memorial fundraiser held in honor of Jim Dusek, an iconic figure in the community of Excelsior Springs. The funds raised were used to purchase new uniforms for the team, complete with a patch emblazoned with the initials “J.D.” on the left sleeve. Additionally, Jim’s family purchased a memorial bench which was permanently placed at Excelsior Springs High School’s “Miracle Field.”

*Blackburn goes for third (photo S Jason Cole).*

Jim Dusek, who passed away on December 21, 2022, was a prominent figure in the community, having owned Rite-Way Auto with his wife Wanda for 30 years. Jim was also actively involved in the community, particularly in coaching baseball for more than 20 years. Jim was also a dedicated father who taught his own children the sport. Jim passed down his love of the game to his kids Kevin, and Jeff, and his grandson Broc, who is a senior on this year’s team. Broc said his grandpa Jim “never missed a game,” and was his biggest supporter. “His dream was that I’d play college ball.” Broc along with the other seniors on this year’s team have dedicated their season to Jim’s memory.

*The pitch was a strike and the uniforms were a hit! (photo S Jason Cole).*

The Excelsior Springs Educational Foundation helped facilitate the memorial fundraiser in honor of Jim, and the outpouring of support from the community was overwhelming. Jim’s wife, Wanda said the generosity of so many people has astonished her, “to see so many people give, makes me so proud” she said. The funds raised were not only used to buy new uniforms for the baseball team, Wanda said that a portion of the funds is will be set aside for when, not if, the team makes it to state! No matter what, it’s certain that the team will wear the uniforms with pride, knowing that they are playing in honor of a man who had a profound impact on the community.

*Coach Aaron Holst said Jim Dusek was an “iconic figure in Excelsior Springs” and a true “baseball junkie.” (photo S Jason Cole).*

The dedication of the memorial bench and the presentation of the new uniforms at the Tiger’s home match on April, 19th, 2023, were emotional moments for Jim’s family and friends, as well as for members of the community who had known and loved him. The bench serves as a lasting tribute to Jim, and a reminder of the positive impact he had on the community.

*Jim’s memorial bench was placed in one of his favorite hangouts atop the bleacher at Miracle Field (photo S Jason Cole).*

If citizens are interested in making a contribution in Jim’s memory, they can still contact the Excelsior Springs Educational Foundation and make a donation in Jim’s name. The foundation is dedicated to supporting the educational programs and activities of the Excelsior Springs School District.

The donation made to the Excelsior Springs Baseball program in Jim’s memory is evidence of the enduring impact that he had on the community. His legacy will live on through the memorial bench and the new uniforms, and his memory will undoubtedly continue to inspire the young athletes who take to the field in Excelsior Springs.