The Cecil Mott Memorial Scholarship was established by his family in tribute to Cecil for his contributions as a counselor, teacher and coach.
He died at age 83 on January 11, 2005, and will be deeply missed by his wife, Mary Jean of Mason City and his children, Andrea Dunbar, Kathy Kellogg, and Laird Mott. In addition he leaves grandchildren, great grandchildren, and his sister, Pauline Goranson.
He was born and educated in Mason City and wrestled for
Howard Barker, who became a lifelong friend and mentor. He served in the Army
during WWII, and returned to complete his teaching degree at the University of
Northern Iowa. During his last two years in college, he compiled an outstanding
record in wrestling, which was crowned by winning the NCAA championship in 1946.
Later he tried out for the 1948 Olympic wrestling team as well.
After graduation, he was recruited by the Iowa Falls school district to start a high school wrestling program. Through his leadership and coaching skills, several of his wrestlers became state champs.
In 1960 he moved his family back to Mason City where he
coached wrestling and helped many students as their guidance counselor until his
retirement in 1982.
Cecil gave generously of himself, and personally modeled
the character traits he hoped to instill in his students and athletes, such as
setting high goals, striving to excel, using good sportsmanship, and acting with
integrity.
Anyone wishing to contribute to this scholarship, please
send tax-deductible donation to the Education Foundation of Mason City Public
Schools, 1515 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, IA 50401.