Panther statue donated to Mountain Grove High School

A new 500-pound panther statue sitting on a limestone slab weighing approximately 15,000 pounds, which was cut from the Phenix Marble Ash Grove quarry, was installed recently on the sidewalk just past the main gate near the football field behind the Arena at Mountain Grove High  School. The statue was purchased through the Orlando, Fla. company, Bronze-Depot, after previously being created in a Thailand foundry. Zach Miller, of Wholesale Monument in Seymour, donated his time organizing the process. L&R Industries donated their manpower, time and equipment to set the stone and panther statue in place. 

The gift was courtesy of Dick Wilson, a member of the Class of 1959. In recent years, Wilson has donated funds for press boxes, the restrooms/concession stand building, football lights, former football field renovation with sprinkler system, scoreboard and more.

 “Mr. Wilson’s contributions have enabled us to undertake and complete multiple significant projects over the last 20 years,” said Denver Mitchell, Mountain Grove R-III’s Director of Support Services. “These improvements not only provide state-of-the-art resources for the student-athletes, but also serve as a beacon of community pride and spirit. As the Mountain Grove School District looks to the future, the impact of Mr. Wilson’s donations will be felt for generations. His philanthropic spirit has not only enhanced the physical infrastructure of the schools, but has also enriched the community’s spirit, emphasizing the importance of investing in the youth and their development.”

Wilson said plans for a panther were first discussed back in 2007 before revisiting the matter with Denver Mitchell this spring. “They couldn’t have picked a better spot,” said Wilson, who lives Oregon. “It’s kind of like icing on the cake with the gym and track facilities.” 

Wilson is hoping to visit Mountain Grove with his family this September to see the panther statue. Wilson said part of the goal for his donations is for the district to be able to enjoy them for 50-75 years.