MINA, S.D. (Dakota News Now) –

Edmunds County has dedicated the bridge over Mina Lake in honor of Emerson Schaunaman, who died in a paragliding crash in August.

Emerson is the son of Aberdeen Mayor Travis Schaunaman.

In a Facebook post, Schaunaman called the ceremony ‘tear-filled but beautiful’, saying Emerson loved spending time at Mina Lake.

Schaunaman shared a tidbit written about Emerson by Michelle Molitor:

“As we walked along the bridge gathering trash, Emerson beamed with pride over every small find—a lost bracelet, a fishing jig, an unopened bag of chips. But what touched me most was his heart. He spoke so genuinely about wanting to help people, sharing that he wanted to serve his community every day, just like his Dad does. In that simple act of civic pride, Emerson showed a quiet generosity and love for his community far beyond his years.”