A very special Christmas tree lights up Nampa

 

NAMPA -- Nampa is getting ready for the holidays.

The city is kicking off the season Monday with the official lighting of the Christmas tree.

But it's not just any tree.  NewsChannel 7 spoke with the family of the man who spent more than half of his life growing it.

This spruce tree was planted in 1953 by Marvin Meyer Sr.

It meant a lot to him to be able donate this tree he grew for a half a century.

Because of something that happend earlier this month, tonight's event means even more to his family.

"He loves the city of Nampa and he just called it home. He was excited about giving it to the city for the Christmas tree. And we had a family picture taken on Saturday and he passed away on Sunday," said Patti Aman, Marvin's daughter.

The Meyer family took the picture on Oct. 31 in front of the big spruce.

Marvin Meyer Sr. died on Nov. 1.  He was 86 years old.

The tree is 56 years old and was planted by Marvin and his son.

Marvin's wife Mary said it will now stand in downtown Nampa in honor of his memory. 

"I think it's wonderful. My husband that just passed away wanted that. It's fine with me.  It left me feeling exposed, the road. But that's OK, he wanted it," said Mary Meyer.

The tree is 40-feet tall and weighs almost seven tons.

About 1,800 lights were lit on the tree.

Mayor Tom Dale officially light the Downtown Nampa Christmas Tree. 

The tree is located in the fountain area next to the Law Enforcement building.