Fund established in memory of 55-year employee will provide free swim lessons at Hannibal Aquatic Center

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Relatives of Ronny Ferrel have established a fund to pay for swim lessons at the Hannibal Aquatic Center.

Ferrel, who worked at the Hannibal Aquatic Center for more than 55 years, died June 3. Camilla Ferrel, Ronny’s cousin, said swim lessons were the favorite part of his job.

Camilla shared that while Ronny wasn’t the type of person who enjoyed the limelight, he would be pleased to know the financial burden for families was lightened by having swim lessons provided at no charge and thrilled to know that area children acquired such an important life/safety skill in his memory. 

Jenna McDonald, Aquatic Center director, said it was a privilege to work with Ronny for almost 10 years.

In a press release, McDonald said, “He loved the pool, but swim lessons were his passion. He was able to bring the joy of swimming to so many in the community. It’s so great that he’s able to impact so many still.”

Since Ronny’s death, $3,445 has been donated for swim lessons. Donations are still being accepted as the fund is a little more than $1,000 short of the cost of swim lessons for the 2024 season.

Donate to the fund with a credit card at https://hannibalparks.recdesk.com/Community/Membership/Detail?membershipId=64