Tributes are starting to come in for longtime Emporia Recreation Commission director Lee Beran, who died Wednesday morning at his home. He was 87.
Current City Manager Mark McAnarney says called Beran “an outstanding person.”
Beran served almost four decades as Emporia’s Rec Commission director, from 1961 to 1999. The city’s recreation center was named in his honor in 2000.
Beran was heavily active in sports prior to that, playing baseball and football. After his time with the Rec Commission, he also remained visible at numerous local sports events, including high school tournaments.
Longtime Rec Commission board member Roger Hartsook says Beran was humble and giving of his time.
Funeral arrangements are pending through Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home. Visitation is underway through 10 pm at Roberts-Blue-Barnett.
