What To Expect At The Tom Kvamme Memorial Dedication Ceremony

For more than four decades, Tom Kvamme quietly helped shape the community of Williston through service, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to making western North Dakota a better place to live. On Memorial Day, the community will gather to recognize that legacy during the Tom Kvamme Memorial Plaque dedication ceremony.

The ceremony will take place on Monday, May 25, at 2:00 p.m. at the Virgil Syverson Performing Arts Center in Harmon Park. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors to the Raymond Family Community Center Arena.

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VIrgil Syverson Center

More Than A Journalist, Tom Kvamme Became A Community Champion In Williston

Kvamme, who passed away in 2023, arrived in Williston in 1984 to work as a journalist for the Williston Herald. Over the years, however, he became known for much more than his reporting. Many considered him Williston’s unofficial community activist because of the countless projects and events he supported throughout the city.

scoping it out Tom Kvamme

Tom Kvamme Helped Shape Some Of Williston’s Most Meaningful Community Traditions

Among the many community efforts Kvamme helped establish or promote were the annual Sports and Recreation Show, the Chokecherry Festival, the Williams County War Memorial Plaza, and the Virgil Syverson Performing Arts Center. He also spent nearly four decades writing the popular “Scope” column for the Williston Herald, helping tell the stories of local people, events, and community milestones.

North Dakota Chokecherry Festival

Memorial Ceremony Will Celebrate Tom Kvamme’s Legacy And Inspire Future Generations

The dedication ceremony will include remarks from project coordinator Peter Knudsvig, a blessing from Pastor Jon Wellumson, greetings from Williston Mayor Howard Klug, and the unveiling of the memorial plaque by his wife, Linda Kvamme.

Organizers say the memorial is designed not only to honor Tom’s past contributions but also to inspire future generations to value community involvement and civic pride.

Veteran's Plaza

Digital Wall Is Being Talked About

There is also discussion of creating a future digital wall of honor that honors Kvamme’s legacy. The online project could allow community members to share stories, memories, photos, and personal tributes celebrating Tom’s lifelong dedication to Williston and possibly recognize other notable community members in the future. Be on the lookout for more on that.

Thanks to the organizers for thinking of Tom, the donors who stepped up with cash, and everyone planning to show up that day for TK!