MARV KAY

the title emeritus board member and installed a tribute bench outside the Golden Community Center in October.

Heather Schneider, the foundation’s executive director, described how Kay’s vision and leadership made a lasting impact on the organization, and how his advocacy wouldn’t be forgotten.

“If you talk to someone around town whether it would be a longtime resident or Mines student or alumni, you’ll likely hear the statement from them, ‘I love that guy. He made a big impact on my life,’” Schneider stated on April 19.

Almost four years ago, the State of Colorado proclaimed April 11, 2019, as Marv Kay Day. People around Golden and beyond celebrated Kay’s legacy of hard work, dedication and civil service that day.

Many Goldenites, Orediggers and others have been sharing their “Marv Kay stories,” as Mines President Paul C. Johnson described them, recalling how kind, wel- coming and caring Kay was. He was the Mines athletes’ greatest supporter, mentoring many during their time at the university. He always stopped to say hello, have a nice chat and occasional joke with people too, they recalled.

At least two former Mines coaches described how Kay was instrumental in their careers, giving them a chance to lead the Orediggers in their respective sports.

“(Kay) was an amazing human and leader,” said Paula Krueger, a former women’s basketball coach at Mines. “His heart was always in the right place. Even after my time at Mines came to an end, he still checked in. ... I will remember him with (love).”

Johnson also recalled the rst time he met Kay when Johnson rst arrived in Golden. He was standing in front of the president’s house on campus, when Kay happened to be driving by, made a quick U-turn, and stopped to say hello and welcome him.

“ at’s just the kind of person he was,” Johnson continued.

D I R E CT V H A S T H E M O ST L O C A L M L B G A ME S