When Paul Zirjacks recently learned of Rotarys beneficent gift to Iola Middle Schools orchestra program, it inspired him to visit a long-neglected closet.
There sat his late wife Judys cello.
It had become part of the furniture, he said Monday afternoon.
About 60 years old, the cello had been Judys passion.
Like many of todays students, Judy learned to play in the Iola schools. Her teacher then was Dale P. Creitz. That musical education provided Judy with opportunities throughout her life.
When Judy and Paul married in 1960 and embarked on his military career, she entrusted her cello to her parents, Howard and Dorothy Robinson.
Over their 27 years away, Judy used her background in music to become a church choir director wherever they lived.
When people met Judy, positions seemed to just open up, Paul said.
When the couple settled in Iola in 1987, Judy joined the Iola Area Symphony Orchestra. That past-time occupied Judy until 2013, when poor health forced her to quit. She passed away on Feb. 16, 2014.
I dont know its condition now, he said, entrusting the cello to Betty Cunningham, mother of Elizabeth Cunningham, who instructs the schools orchestra program.
Zirjacks said he was moved to make the contribution after learning the schools orchestra program was using makeshift instruments made out of cardboard for beginning students. Last summer, the schools strings program received a grant for almost $3,000 from Iolas Rotary club.
I went to last years program and was very impressed with what Elizabeth has done, Zirjacks said. But I didnt know they were on hard times.
Cunninghams beginning and intermediate strings classes have grown to the point that they, once again, have run out of instruments, according to Betty.
Its a good problem, she said. But a problem, nonetheless.
In addition to the cello, Zirjacks contributed its sturdy case, a metronome and a music stand.
In a letter to USD 257 Board of Education members, Zirjacks said, Thank you, Elizabeth, for your contribution to the valuable instruction you provide these students to learn a skill they will have with them their whole lives.
