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Jack Dryden, a longtime Belton resident, passed away Oct. 12, 2025. A memorial service is planned for this weekend.

KSHB 41 News reporter Megan Abundis reported last year about Dryden donating 69 acres of land. The area sits adjacent to Cleveland Lake.

Dryden was a strong participant in the Belton community, according to his obituary. He wanted to give back to the town that raised him, with a dream for an arboretum and community green space.

That land was donated on June 13, 2024.

"It was probably the best phone call Ive taken in two years because it was Jack, Brian Welborn, Belton Parks and Recreation director, told Abundis on a visit to the property last year. "Ironically, Jack owned the land that is now Cleveland Lake, which is right next to the land

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