LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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David Mespelt

Position: Retiring Head Custodian
School: Baker High School
School District: Baker School District 5J
City, State: Baker City, OR

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David Mespelt was nominated by his principal, Greg Mitchell.

Mr. Mespelt has served Baker School District for the past 20 years. During that time, he has done a wonderful job as the head custodian at Baker High School.  He has also supported hundreds of community events.

Baker City is a small, rural, agricultural community in Eastern Oregon. In small towns like Baker City, the high school fields, auditorium, cafeteria, and/or gymnasium are virtually community centers.  They are the large venues that community organizations tend to use for their special events.  Those activities require someone to set up equipment, make sure the facility is adequately cleaned, and restore it to functionality for school. That requires a tremendous amount of work, in addition to the daily maintenance duties. 

Mr. Mespelt has been that individual for Baker School District for the past 20 years. He does it with a smile on his face and a positive attitude.  He is the person behind the scenes that is truly upholding the community.

"It has been a pleasure to get to know David over the past five years that I've served as principal," said Mitchell. "We are all going to miss him and the daily contributions he makes to keep our school and community running smoothly."

Comments (5)

Gail Ebell Posted over a year ago

I have worked at BHS with David for so many years...during this time the classroom I work out of has called David in time and again to help us out with custodial issues. Many of those times have been unpleasant experiences. Not once has he grumbled or indicated that he was unwilling to do anything we asked of him. He has always been very supportive of all students and staff, going about his business with a smile on his face. We will truly miss seeing David in the halls and I personally hope his retirement will be a fantastic experience for him.

Kati Stuchlik Posted over a year ago

Dave has been an absolute rock since I have started at Baker High School!! He has graciously put up with and supported my constant furniture moving and painting. Dave is always cheerful and quick to say hello to students and staff alike. Aside from his dedication to our school, Dave is a committed member of our community and an amazing artist!! It will be hard to imagine our school without him here...he will be missed!!

Chelsea Hurliman Posted over a year ago

Mr. Mespelt is a compassionate, considerate hard working individual that I have had the privilege of working with the past 7 years. During this time I have gotten to know Dave and appreciate everything he does to help make my job easier. He tends to the little things which makes Baker High School a great place. I'm going to miss seeing him each day but look forward to seeing all of the amazing pieces of art he will be creating during his retirement.

MaLena Wirth Posted over a year ago

David has served our community of learners in his capacity with a "Can do!" attitude. As the lead, this building is a place to be proud of. We can always count on David addressing our needs in a prompt and professional manner. Many of the students were saddened to hear of his retirement and wish to express their thanks for all he has done and also wish him a well-deserved retirement. He will be missed! Congratulations David and Thank you!! Ma'Lena

Joy LeaMaster Posted over a year ago

As the high school media specialist, I count on Dave to go far above his regular duties to help with the myriad of needs in the library. His expertise in woodworking, electrical, plumbing and all around "fix it guy" will be impossible to replace. Thank you, Dave!!