LOOK AROUND EMPORIA and Virgil Basgall is everywhere.
The former city manager, who died Friday, helped lead the community through more than 20 years of growth and change, left his mark everywhere.
The Tyson Fresh meats plant, Dolly Madison bakery and other industrial projects have his stamp on them. The municipal golf course is his doing. He was there to push along the city’s recovery after the 1974 tornado. He seemed to be always on the move.
If he was running a race, it was an obstacle race. Often, he had to fight for what he thought was best for the city. Sometimes the fight was with The Emporia Gazette, which resisted him on some issues. Sometimes he won; sometimes he lost. But he never let the prospect of a fight prevent him from trying to do what he thought was right.
Basgall was city manager from 1960 to 1981, but his influence in city affairs did not end with his retirement. He kept his hand in, working on civic projects and always available to give advice or wield influence in a good cause.
In a 2007 interview, as he celebrated his 95th birthday, Basgall talked about his still-active life.
“I’m just the most fortunate person, I tell you,” he said. “Everything is still working and that’s very fortunate.”
Everything was still working. He remained sharp, engaged and active for another two years. He had friends old and young. He always looked about 15 years younger than his age.
He kept going strong until earlier this year, when a broken hip put an end to his mobility.
As city manager, Virgil Basgall gave Emporia its money’s worth. As a longtime resident of the community, he gave more than could ever be repaid.
As a friend, he can never be replaced.
Patrick S. Kelley
Editorial Page Editor
bmcfall (anonymous) says...
I had the honor to follow Virgil Basgall as Emporia's City Manager, and I had the opportunity to get to know Virgil well. He was a man who cared deeply about his community, and who remained committed to Emporia even after retirement from public life. Virgil was also committed to the profession of city management. He helped countless young people start their careers, and was always available to give advice or encouragement. The profession will miss him.
I am proud to have known Virgil and to have worked to build upon his legacy. Brent McFall, City of Westminster, CO
July 20, 2009 at 3:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )