Longtime city parks leader to retire

Fred DeVictor had been with City Hall since 1970

Fred DeVictor, the city’s longtime director of parks and recreation, will retire.

City officials made the announcement Friday afternoon in a press release. DeVictor had been with City Hall since 1970, and appointed parks director in 1975.

“Fred’s leadership and vision in providing outstanding parks, facilities and programs for the Lawrence community have been an incredible contribution to the city,” said David Corliss, city manager. “His commitment to providing city services has greatly benefited the Lawrence community and his service is very much appreciated.”

Under DeVictor, Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department was a National Recreation and Park Association Gold Medal Award finalist in 1997 and 1998. DeVictor is a past president of the Kansas Recreation and Park Association and has received its Distinguished Service Professional Award and Distinguished Fellow Award.