John Keates, parks and recreation director for the City of Bothell, was awarded the Washington Recreation and Parks Association’s (WRPA) highest honor.

Representatives from WRPA surprised Keates by naming him an Honor Fellow and presenting the award at a recent Bothell City Council meeting.

Parks staff were on hand to watch the presentation.

According to a newsletter from the city manager to city council, Keates said he hasn’t been so touched by anything since his wedding.