RUMFORD — The football practice field at Mountain Valley High School was dedicated to the late Dan Garneau during a ceremony Tuesday.

“My wife and I are truly honored and a bit overwhelmed with the dedication of the field,” Jeff Garneau said of the honor. “We are very happy our son will be remembered throughout the years. Dan was a great kid who loved life and football.”

Dan Garneau, who would have been a Mountain Valley senior this year, died last spring from complications associated with acute myeloid leukemia, a cancer of the blood. He was diagnosed in July 2009.

Tuesday’s ceremony was held before a large group, including his parents, school officials, friends, contributors and the team. The Rumford Water District owns the land, but allows the school to use it at no charge. The entire endeavor was done at no cost to Regional School Unit 10, officials noted.

A sign was erected by the Rumford Parks Department under the direction of John Martin, a parks board member.

Martin’s grandson Ben Higley was one of Dan Garneau’s best friends.

The memorial sign was erected at the top of the old ravine, which was used as a training hill. It is at the top of the trail that leads down to the filed.  

The field, currently being used by the Falcons behind the school on Hancock Street, was built last spring.

Jeff Garneau, also a volunteer coach, escorted the team captains to midfield before the recent game against York.

“I have been with these players since coaching (youth football) in their third-grade year,” Garneau said. “It has been an honor and a joy to be able to watch them grow into fine young men.”

Volunteers who did work on the practice field include: Nicols Logging, which cut the trees on the old ravine and did the ditch work; Steve Swasey, who did the leveling of the field; and Brian Gagnon.

“Dan was a big part of his teammate’s life,” Mountain Valley coach Jim Aylward said. “To honor him is important for both his family and his friends. I’m proud we could do this.”