The Hiawatha City Commission, during a special meeting Saturday at Noble Park, approved a resolution naming the ball field "Paul Rockey Field." Photo credit: Greg Bebermeyer/MSC News.

(KNZA)--It’s official---the baseball field at Hiawatha’s Noble Park is now “ Paul Rockey Field.”

During a special meeting Saturday morning at Noble Park, the Hiawatha City Commission unanimously approved a resolution naming the ball field in honor of the memory of the longtime coach and community volunteer who was involved in Hiawatha baseball programs for 38 years and instrumental in the construction of the ball field.

Despite the inclement weather, a large crowd was on hand for the event.  

Longtime family friend, Judd Tritsch, spoke on behalf of the Rockey family and about his friend. “Knowing Paul, I know he would be humbled and honored.  You see Paul loved baseball.  The town is very fortunate to have had a man like Paul who had the ingenuity to build this beautiful field.  Paul put his heart and soul into this field, working countless volunteer hours, making it a showplace for all of us to enjoy”, said Tritsch.  

Hiawatha Parks and Recreation Director Stacy Jasper says she was approached shortly after Rockey’s death in May by members of the baseball association and others about naming the ball field in his honor.  

Local resident John Weingart, who spearheaded the efforts, received Commission approval in July.

At the end of Saturday’s special meeting,  Rockey’s grandchildren unveiled the sign bearing his name.