The life of respected community figure Dennis “Dix” Lenhardt was remembered in two positive ways during Monday’s meeting of the Waterloo City Council.

Lenhardt, 70, passed away June 12 following a long illness. He was a former city employee, past Waterloo city alderman, longtime member of the Waterloo Fire Department, and also served as a police commissioner for the city from 2008 to 2014.

The Lenhardt family nominated three men to receive the city’s “Good Neighbor Award” for taking Dix on one last fishing trip while his health was in decline.

“Bob Horn, Randy Rehmer and Dave DeBourge collaborated to take Dix to Reel Foot Lake for his very last fishing trip with the guys,” the Lenhardt family stated in its nomination letter. “This trip is taken annually and although this time the trip was only for a day, our family is certain that this meant the world to Dix.

“Fishing was a passion of Dix’s, and we will forever be grateful to these men for helping to make Dix’s last days with us something special.”

Horn was also recognized by the family for taking the initiative to make sure Dix got to every fire department event that he was well enough to attend.

“All three of these men are a rarity in today’s society and have all shown examples of being selfless by putting a friend first,” the nomination letter states. “For all of this, our family is forever grateful.”

Horn, Rehmer and DeBourge were presented framed “Good Neighbor Award” certificates and gift certificates to JV’s Downtown Bar & Grill for their efforts.

“These guys are what makes Waterloo a great place to live,” Waterloo Mayor Tom Smith said.

But the tribute to Dix did not end there. Mayor Smith announced at the meeting that a plaque commemorating Dix’s years of service as police commissioner — which includes his badge on it — will be on display inside the Waterloo Police Department lobby for all to see.

Smith also presented paper copies of this plaque to Dix’s wife Patricia, son Brian and daughter Lisa. Not present on Monday was Dix’s son Steve Lenhardt.

At times overcome with emotion, Brian Lenhardt addressed the council on this special night for his family.

“Thanks to all of you for allowing my dad to fulfill some of his dreams,” Brian said. “He loved Waterloo and appreciated everything everyone did for him,”

Brian praised his father as a strong mentor with great values.

“I’m honored to have had a dad with those values,” he said.

Smith agreed with Brian.

“Your dad was a great guy for the community,” the mayor said. “He promoted Waterloo.”