WILMINGTON, MA — At Monday night’s Board of Selectmen Meeting, Chairman Mike Champoux presented Bernie McNally, beloved longtime Playground Supervisor for the Wilmington Recreation Department, with a citation for his 20 years of service to the town.
McNally, a lifelong resident of Wilmington, is currently battling terminal brain cancer. Doctors have recently told him there are no more treatments available.
McNally has been an “integral part” of the Wilmington Recreation Department for the past two decades, first with special needs programs and, most recently, as its Summer Playground Supervisor.
“It’s hard to summarize what you’ve meant to this town,” Selectwoman Judy O’Connell told McNally. “You’ve made an incredible difference in so many kids’ lives… and they will never forget you.”
“You embody Wilmington,” Selectman Lou Cimaglia said to McNally, praising his volunteerism and dedication to the town. “My children love you. You touched their lives. My son Nick is coming home from college to attend your fundraiser.”
“You’re well loved by many, many folks in town,” added Selectman Mike McCoy.
“We are very grateful for your many years of service to the town,” said Selectman Chair Mike Champoux. “You are an example for us all.”
Town Manager Jeff Hull noted that during Bernie’s well-attended 50th Birthday Party organized by the Wilmington Recreation Department at Town Hall last Friday night, high school students, on their way to the WHS Junior Prom, actually took the time to visit while in their gowns and tuxes.
“That tells it all right there,” emphasized Hull. “Bernie’s really helped out so many kids.”
“Bernie is a genuine guy. He cares about everybody and always puts himself last,” noted Hull. “If there was a ‘Mr. Wilmington,’ it would be Bernie.”
REMINDER: Bernie’s Wish Fundraiser
On Friday, April 29 at 7pm, the Wilmington community is encouraged to rally around Bernie and attend a fundraiser at Kitty’s Restaurant (123 Main Street, North Reading). Tickets cost $20 in advance online and $25 at the door. Tickets can be purchased HERE.
Online donations are also being accepted HERE. Funds will help ensure that Bernie’s nephews, whom he raised after their father passed away, will be able to stay in their home after his passing.
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