Ten Sweet Home residents were recognized during the eighth Honoring the American Man dinner, held Friday, June 14, at the Elks Lodge.
The event was created by Nancy Patton in memory of her father, Wiley William Wood, whom she said worked hard, volunteered and was a great family member.
“When he died, I said, ‘You know, there’s a lot of men out there like my dad,’ and I thought, ‘I’m gonna do something in memory to honor my father for who he was’,” she said. “That’s why we’ve created this event, honoring men for who they are.”
She also uses the opportunity as a fundraiser. This year, proceeds raised from an auction and raffle are intended to be donated to Linn County Search and Rescue in memory of one of this year’s American men, Jim Search, who passed away two months ago.
His wife, Heather Search, accepted the award on his behalf. A family friend, Patricia Schilling, nominated Search as an American Man for his countless hours invested in volunteer work, his “love and devotion” to his family, his ability to be a friend to all and serve all with an “extraordinary sized heart.”
The youngest “man” honored on this evening was 6-year-old Caden Lee Baxter, who was nominated by his uncle, Clinton Gregg. Gregg said Caden has participated in volunteer work, helps care for his family pets, played for the Husky Football Pop Warner team and recently was named Most Improved Student of the Month at Foster Elementary.
Matthew Bechtel was recognized as an American Man for serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom in the US Army, cleaning up debris following Hurricane Katrina, and currently serving on the Parks and Trees Committee.
Pastor Matt Coleman was awarded the title for his efforts to bring the church community together, in addition to working behind the scenes in a volunteer capacity, being an “outstanding” father and husband, and having an uncanny ability to fix anything.
Another community leader, Jim Gourley, was recognized as an American Man for his lifelong commitment to the community of Sweet Home. His wife, Lisa, said Gourley has been serving people since at least high school, and provided an endless list of ways he has touched lives and changed the community for the better. She said Gourley is “a man with a strong work ethic and integrity.”
Andrew Hoggatt was awarded for being a hard worker, provider and family man, and for being “nothing short of amazing” as he took on the responsibilities of a step-father and husband.
William Palmtag, a US Army veteran, was honored for his servant heart. His daughter, Deena Bechtel, said he helped many by providing a warm meal, listening ear and “soft place to land.”
Christopher Patton was recognized for being a role model and support system for his daughter, in addition to being a hard worker and fun papa.
Wil Shannon was named an American Man for his proactive Christian lifestyle. He started Celebrate Recovery and volunteers in different capacities, including “drive-by prayer.” It was said of Shannon that he has a big heart and is a fun man who loves to make people laugh.
Last but not least, Buck Wylde, was nominated as an American Man for being honest, having a huge heart, serving others, and being a good friend and man of integrity. Wylde is involved with Bikers Against Bullies, the Stand Up and Be Heard radio show, and proms and events for the needy.