New Community Project in Neillsville Will Honor Opelt Legacy

Friday, February 5th, 2021 -- 1:01 PM

A new community project will honor the Opelt legacy here in Neillsville.

It would be a challenge to find a Neillsville resident who didn’t recognize the Opelt name. Carl and Millie Opelt moved to Neillsville from Waupaca after their marriage in 1921 and their extended family has become known for its development and support of the surrounding area over the past century.

And now, thanks to the efforts of their grandson, Irv Schutte, Carl and Millie’s contribution will be recognized in the form of a community recreation space.  Schutte’s Creekside Bar, which was once the American Legion, is located next to O’Neill Creek on the north side of Neillsville.

Schutte was inspired by his granddaughter, Lily, to develop a play area on his  established lawn between the bar’s parking lot and the city-owned Fountain Park.

There were several significant hurdles involved, but through the sale of this land, plus a partnership with the Neillsville Improvement Corporation (NIC), Schutte’s dream is on its way to becoming a reality.

Schutte, as well as other community members and city representatives, will serve on the project  development committee. NIC will serve as the fiscal agent and coordinator of the project and is working with MSA Professional Services of Marshfield to engineer the plan.

The preliminary site plan includes a large play structure dedicated to Carl and Millie, as well as the entrance to a recreational biking/walking trail. Schutte recently expressed his gratitude in a Facebook post, “I am so thankful for this and hope it will provide joy to all.”  

With the support of the Listeman Foundation, NIC was able to purchase the property from Schutte, as well as four parcels from Northern States Power. These parcels will form the first portion of the recreational trail, as outlined in both the city’s and county’s long-range plans.

City and county representatives are working with NIC to develop ideas for expanded public use.  Donations toward both projects, the Carl and Millie Opelt play structure or the recreational trail, can be directed to NIC at 508 Hewett Street, Neillsville.

Please designate which project you would like your donation to support. For further information, you can contact NIC at 715-743-3440 or visit their website:  www.neillsvilleimprovement.jimdo.com.

Although Carl Opelt passed away at the age of 90 in 1989, and Millie at the age of 101 in 2003, their  descendants have gone on to make a lasting and positive impact on Neillsville’s history. This community project will serve as a fitting tribute to Carl and Millie’s legacy.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.