Lemont High School Welcomes New Alumni Hall Of Fame Inductees

LEMONT, IL — Lemont High School’s Alumni Hall of Fame welcomed its latest class of inductees when three graduates – Kenneth Novak ‘69, George Rimbo ‘87 and Dr. Donald Weber ‘59 – were recognized at the school’s annual Jazz Band Dinner Dance at DiNolfo’s Banquets in Homer Glen on March 3.

The school said each of the honorees was introduced by Lemont High School District 210 Superintendent Dr. Mary Ticknor, who presented each person with a commemorative plaque. The Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes graduates who have made significant contributions to society and serve as role models to Lemont High School students. This recognition is the highest honor that can be given by Lemont High School to one of its alumni.

According to the school, all Alumni Hall of Fame honorees must be of good character, reflecting the qualities and ideals set forth by Lemont High School. Nominees are eligible for induction to the Lemont High School Alumni Hall of Fame 10 years after their graduation from the school.

Here is some information about the new inductees:

Kenneth Novak '69

Described as unassuming and kind, Kenneth Novak has dedicated nearly 50 years to the community he loves and does whatever he can to make Lemont a place people are proud to call home. Novak served for more than 30 years at the Lemont Park District, retiring as the Superintendent of Parks and Risk Manager. He was named the South Suburban Park & Recreation Professional Association “Park Professional of the Year” in 1992. His service to the Lions Club may be unparalleled in the Lemont community. Novak was named the Lemont “Lion of the Year” multiple times, and he served as President of the Lemont Lions Club, District Governor of Lions District 1-B, and President of the Lions of Illinois Foundation. Novak has found additional ways to impact the community, including a 10-year stint on the District 113A Board of Education and as a Lemont Area Historical Society board member.

George Rimbo '87

George Rimbo has been a pillar of the Lemont community for decades, serving his community with enthusiasm and integrity. A three-sport high school athlete, Rimbo was captain of the football team and earned the Sons of the American Revolution Award as a senior. After beginning as a part-time fireman in 1988, Rimbo steadily climbed the ranks in the Lemont Fire Protection District before being selected to serve as fire chief in 2013. A member of the Illinois Association of Fire Chiefs, Rimbo served as a member of the District 113A Board of Education from 1993-99, and as a member of the Lemont High School District 210 Board of Education from 2009-13. He has been active in several service organizations, holding roles as a Cubmaster for Cub Scout Pack #249, as a football coach with the Lemont Hornets, and as a travel baseball coach with the Lemont Indians.

Dr. Donald Weber '59

Few people have had as dynamic of a relationship with Lemont High School as Dr. Donald Weber. Just 20 years after graduation, he returned to his alma mater as its superintendent, holding that position from 1979-85. He served in the same capacity at Lockport High School District 205 (1985-92) and Naperville Community Unit School District 203 (1992-2003). From there, Weber moved on to PMA Financial Network, leading the effort to introduce a newly created financial planning program to Illinois school districts; one district that took advantage of this service was Lemont High School District 210. Weber currently serves as PMA’s Senior Vice President for Corporate Relations. A member of many statewide organizations during his time as an educator, he received the Award of Excellence in School Administration from the Illinois State Board of Education. He also was a founding member of the Lemont High School Educational Foundation.

Photo provided by Lemont High School.