BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Virginia A. Adams Carpenter, 93, Des Moines. Born in Kansas. BHS-47. Married Charles V. Carpenter in 1947 and the couple moved to Des Moines. No services are planned.

   Steven Alfred Hagen, 74, Ames. Born in Ames. Army vet. Worked at the DOT. He met Beverly Judyann Wood, BHS-71, while attending DMACC. The couple married in 1973. Survivors include his wife, Beverly, a son, a daughter, a sister and a brother. Also surviving is a sister-in-law, Sharon Wood McCargar, BHS-67, and her husband, Ron McCargar, BHS-66. Services in Ames.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

       Reva Moore, 90, California. Survivors include her husband, Larry Moore, BHS-52.

RIDING THE "JUICE LINE" TO SCHOOL

   Railroad stories have been prominent in recent editions of the Korner.

   After reading a detailed email from Jim Donelson, BSH-63, the Kornerman couldn't help but think how unhurried, how simple life "used to be." Folks who missed those days.......well, I'm sorry they never got a similar "taste."

   Jim wrote that from the time his family moved back to Boone County from Californian in 1954, impressionable railroad memories began sprouting. That was when he and brother Dale, BSH-66, were growing up.

   First, renting a back apartment over Dan's Tobacco Shop on the west side of Story Street at mid-block, "we had a great view of the interurban tracks looking west," Jim relates. That started a longtime relationship where the brothers could never, "get far from the B&FE tracks."

   When the family moved west of town to an acreage (with the little white block house on the curve at the top of the waterworks hill), Jim and Dale walked down to the nearby tracks to catch the morning interurban trolley. After a stop near Dan's on Story Street, they were just a two block walk from Sacred Heart school. Jim said, "we thought we were in for the long haul but passenger service was discontinued in 1955, leaving us with a couple books of tickets."

   A return trip after school took longer but was, perhaps, even more enjoyable. Jim wrote, "In the spring and fall we walked along 11th street, past Deeter's Grocery and followed the tracks beginning at Division Street. It was a pleasant walk of a couple miles, with plenty of ballast rocks to throw. However, we never passed up an offer to ride the work cart from a friendly section crew. I take it that another generation of grade schoolers in Boone will get a similar experience from the new railbikes."

   When the family moved to 12th street, "we abandoned the west line and walked east to Shafer's Grocery on Linn Street, then to the tracks on 11th and continued as far east as the north side of the hemp plant. I loved growing up in Boone. Where else could a couple teenaged brothers carry their single shot 20 game Savage shotguns from their front door to the railroad ROW to hunt for pheasants, quail and rabbits?"

   "My next personal connection with the FDDM&S tracks was in the fall of 1966 when Al Dannatt, BHS-66, and I worked, after our Boone JC classes, at Standley Transfer and Storage. We helped unload many freight cars full of boxed, canned and bagged staples headed for Fareway, but what I remember most fondly, were the 100 pound sacks of sugar to be delivered to the Archway bakery. Al and I would race with our individually named oak hand trucks stacked six stacks high to see how fast we could empty the car and make the delivery to Archway. Our reward was $1.50 per hour, lots of self-directed weight and cardio exercise and a big box of hot, right out of the oven, broken cookies."

   In conclusion Jim wrote, "these days I am relegated to the status of a paying tourist rider on the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad when visiting Boone. It's good to see it's no longer the B&FE. What's that? "Back and Forth Empty" was the name affectionately used by my brother-in-law, Steve Mathis, BHS-1964, who worked the section during his home from college summers. Steve likely worked with his classmate and my Sturtz Texaco Red Sox teammate John Hendricks, BHS-64. One final thought, Steve's mother, Mary Jean, was one of the naming contest winners whose entries were combined into the new line's Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad name."

   EDITOR'S NOTE: I, the Kornerman, had indicated to Jim that I had remembered his mother as a very successful Boone beautician. Jim answered, "my mother, Leone, started a one-stall beauty shop in our home at 1027 12th Street. Eventually, the entire house was converted into Leone's Beauty Salon with six stations and we moved to the house on the alley at 1021 12th. he lots, from west to east, have been vastly improved with the construction of the Sacred Heart rectory and the home built by the late Carold Pearson and his wife, Mary.

   P.S. The Kornerman noted that Jim signed off his email with .....BN-R Route #41, 1957-59 and BSH-1963, a shout-out to his Boone News Republican delivery days. Thanks so much Jim. So many great memories for our KK viewers. I''m sure they enjoyed them.

K-----K

   BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Darlene Ann Fangman Mosman, 89, Boone. Born in Alta, IA. St Angela's Academy-1951. Married Rolland Mosman. Faith and family were the most important things in Darlene's life. Served on Parish Council. Was a lifetime member of the Altar Society. Bowled in a league for 50 years and won a state title in the 80's. Also enjoyed roller skating. Loved following all sports. Survivors include two sons, including James Mosman of Boone, and three daughters, including Kris Ann Hickle and Shari Anderson of Boone. Services in Boone.

   Carol Jean Hume Mowrer, 92, Perry. Born near Jamaica, IA. JHS-48. Married Harold Allen Mowrer in Perry in 1950. Survivors include a daughter and two sons, including Thomas Mowrer of Ogden. Also surviving are a daughter-in-law, Chris Mowrer, and grandchildren, Josie and Maddie Mowrer, all of Madrid. Services in rural Bouton and Perry.

K-----K

   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices......

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

 

      

  

  

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Darlene Ann Fangman Mosman, 89, Boone. Services in Boone.

BOONE AREA DEATH

   Carol Mowrer, 92, Perry. Survivors include a son, Tom Mowrer, of Ogden, a daughter-in-law, Chris Mowrer, of Madrid and grandchildren, Josie and Maddie Mowrer both of Madrid. Services in rural Bouton.

A RAILROAD TOWN......ALWAYS

   You can't take the railroad out of Boone. Once its a railroad community, its always a railroad community.

   Recent railroad talk in the Korner caught the eye of Ron Hopkins, BSH-59. He wrote, "another comment about Boone's railroad legacy. Growing up in a railroad town was instrumental to my life-long pursuit of scale model railroading. This diverse hobby has provided me many hours of pleasure and tremendous satisfaction, especially in retirement. My current layout depicts a small railroad serving the cedar shingle industry and fish canneries of Washington state's Olympic peninsula in 1940. My modeling is illustrated in several video clinics (interested viewers can simply enter my name in the You-Tube search field). To brag a little, a few years ago, I scratched an item from my bucket list, earning recognition as a Master Model Railroader by the National Model Railroad Association. Only because of Boone?"

   The Kornerman says, "Congrats Ron.....very interesting. If memory serves today (that's a day-by-day thing), in your younger years, you worked for Red's Hobby Shop?....underneath Meyer's Clothing. I bet there was some railroad memorabilia available there?"

K-----K

   BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

    Egon Edward Weaver, 84, Boone. Born in Mason City. Garner HS-55. Army vet. Married Elaine Jurgemeyer in Garner in 1960. Was proficient in hand-to-hand combat and taught Jiu Jitsu, Karate and Akido to civilians and law enforcement. Retired from teaching civilians in 1977. The couple lived in Garner, Mason City and Watertown, SD until moving to Boone in 1968. Retired from AT&T as an electronic technician in 1992. He loved flying, sailing and woodworking and taught celestial navigation. In 1991, he and his son, Kent, helped position the sun dial, located in Pella, to its true north position. Survivors include his son, a daughter, Heather Nigro of Boone, a brother, brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Services are pending.

   Virginia Orr Forney Tabor, 91, Webster City. Born in Pilot Mound. PMHS. Married Kenneth Tabor in 1951. Worked as a secretary at Webster City Junior High and then, for over 14 years, as a secretary for the Iowa State Extension Service. Music was important. She was a vocalist and pianist and an organist at various churches. Had a keen interest in genealogy and local history, crocheting and embroidery and played bridge. A son and a daughter are among the survivors. Family graveside service will be held at a later time.

   Betty Darlene Schwien, 93, Johnston/Mason City. Born in Boone. BHS-48. Married Clarence Schwien in Boone in 1949. For many years, the couple owned and operated the Travelodge Motel in Mason City. Spent time in Mexico and winters in Arizona. Four adult children survive, including Richard, BHS-72, and Janeen, BHS-77. A brother also survives. Services in Pella and Van Meter.

   Gregory Joseph Peitzmeier, 65, Pilot Mound. Born in Illinois. BHS-75. Worked for Story Construction until retirement. A voracious reader, focusing on war history but also classic writings. He also enjoyed classic films and loved his dogs. Survivors include his mother, Anne, brothers Gary, BHS-72, and Glenn, BHS-82, and his sister, Gail Williams, BHS-79. Greg's father was Augie Peitzmeier who brought the family to Boone so he could manage the J.C.Penny store here. Private services will be held at a later date.

K-----K

   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices.....

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

  

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Egon Edward Weaver, 84, Boone. Born in Mason City. Garner HS-55. Army vet. Married Elaine Jurgemeyer in Garner in 1960. Moved to Boone in 1968. Retired from AT&T as an electronic technician in 1992. Survivors include a son, a daughter, Heather Nigro of Boone, a brother, brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Services are pending.

BOONE AREA DEATH

   Virginia Forney Orr Tabor, 91, Webster City. Born in Pilot Mound. Pilot Mound HS. Married Ken Tabor in 1951. Private graveside services in Pilot Mound at a later date.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Betty Darlene Schwien, 93, Johnston. BHS-48.  Married Clarence Schwien in Boone in 1949. Services in Pella and Van Meter.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

   Greg J. Peitzmeier, 65, Pilot Mound. Born in Illinois. BHS-75. Worked for Story Construction until retirement. A reader, he focused on war history and classic writings, as well as watching classic films. Survivors include his mother, Anne, two brothers, Gary, BHS-72, and Glenn, BHS-82, and a sister, Gail, BHS-79. His father, now deceased, was August Peitzmeier. The family came to Boone when "Augie" became the manager of the J.C. Penny store. A private ceremony will be held at a later date.

WHAT ABOUT THESE GANDY DANCERS?

   Always good to hear the thoughts of my classmate, Richard Longworth, BHS-53, who enjoyed the railroad talk in the last edition.

   Dick wrote, "today's piece brought back memories of the old Fort Dodge line. Believe we also called it the "juice" line, because it was all electric. I worked for a while one summer as a vacation relief in the line's yard in Fort Dodge. My job was to go each morning to the rail yards at the various gypsum mines and plants in Fort Dodge, probably the gypsum capital of the country, and count the rail cars parked there. There was a romance to it. The cars came from all over, the B&Q, the Pennsy, the UP, the Erie, the Rock Island Line. I made a list of the cars and which lines they came from. No one ever explained to me why this was necessary, but a job was a job. On my second day, I finished the chore by lunch time and asked what to do next. It was firmly explained to me that the guy I was replacing stretched the car counting to last all day and it would be appreciated if I did the same thing. At night I slept in a bunk car at the yard and hitched rides on the switch engines as they moved around. The engineers were happy for the company and one tried to teach me how to roll a cigarette while hanging out the side of a moving engine. I never learned but admired his artistry."

  Dick added, "John Hendricks, BHS-64, says he worked on the Fort Dodge line as a gandy dancer. I've heard these guys were called gandy dancers because, to uproot a rail, they had to jump up and down on their crowbars, which were made by a Gandy company but I don't know if this is true or just legend. Can any of your readers settle this matter?"

K-----K

   Hard to believe. Jo just pointed out to me that July 21 was/is a special day for the Kelley's. Four years ago on that date, Mo Kelley Day was held in Boone, Iowa. A day we'll never forget.

   My name on McDonald's big sign, recognition in the newspaper and on the radio and from the city itself as Mayor John Slight  designated the day as Mo Kelley Day in Boone and handed me confirming documentation and a beautiful trophy.Then too, three beautiful benches, "A Tribute to Mo Kelley," placed at three of my favorite Boone venues, Goeppinger Field, Creasman Field and Memorial Park.

   As Jo pointed out, it was a warm, beautiful Iowa day with the Boone County Fair and many other events drawing attention but, still, a wonderful crowd of friends, many from out of state, took time to come together to wish us well. In addition, later, we were overwhelmed with cards and letters from folks all over this country, just as many or more than the number that were able to attend the "day" in person. 

   I never attempted to make a count of the actual responses but it sure took a long time to make an effort to contact everyone with our sincere thanks for their participation.

   And, finally, this gives me another opportunity to say, "many thanks" to those who gave up part of their day to attend, in person, or to send a special greeting via email, letter etc. And, of course, a big thank you to those who, in some way, helped engineered this event.

K-----K

   BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Colin D. (Deacon) Demery, 89, Phoenix, formerly of Boone. Married Phyliss Scarf. She passed away in 2013. Army vet. He'll always be remembered for is beautiful tenor voice. Survivors include a daughter, Dawn, BHS-74, and a son, Dart, BHS-75. plus two sisters and his best friend of the past seven years, Lois Atkins. No services are schedule.

   Daniel West, 32, Madrid. Born in Ames. MHS-2008. Received his CNA training from Job Corps in Denison. His most recent employment was a morning shift manager at McDonald's in Boone. Loved to play cards and video games. A big fan of the Madrid Tigers, Dallas Cowboys and Iowa Hawkeyes. Survivors include his parents, James and Judy West, of Madrid, two siblings, nieces and nephews and his grandparents, Willard and Myrtle Sanders of Missouri. Services in Polk City and Madrid.

   Delores Silvey Oliver, 94, Ames. Born in Stratford. BHS-46. Married Ralph Oliver and they divorced. Worked for ISU in the Veterinary Medical Research Department and retired in 1990 after 30 years of service. Enjoyed her yard and flowers, ISU basketball, traveling and made jewelry and fabric yo-yo items. Survivors include a son and daughter. No formal services will be held at this time.

K-----K

   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices....

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

  

  

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Colin D. (Deacon) Demery, 89, Phoenix, AZ. Married Phyliss Scharf. She passed away in 2013. Army vet. Survivors include a son, Dart Demery, BHS-75, of Boone and a daughter, Dawn, BHS-74, of Arizona. Two sisters also survive. No services scheduled at this time.

BOONE AREA DEATH

   Daniel West, 32, Madrid. Born in Ames. MHS-2008. Received CNA training from Job Corps in Denison. Most recent employment was as a morning shift manager at McDonald's in Boone. Survivors include his parents, James and Judy West, of Madrid, two siblings, nieces and nephews and grandparents. Services in Polk City and Madrid.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Delores Silvey Oliver, 94, Ames. Born in Stratford. BHS-46. Married Ralph Oliver and later, they divorced.Worked at ISU. Retired in 1990 after 30 years service. A son and daughter survive. No formal services planned at this time.

BOONE AND THE RAILROADS

   Mike Loehrer, a Boone native but now of Dublin, OH, evoked some railroad memories by recommending a look-see at Iowa Scenic Train Rides - American-Rails.com.

   That site is loaded with Iowa rail history, including much material pertaining to Boone's railroad history. That colorful and famous photo of their 2-8-2 #8419, a JS Class Mikado, built in China in 1989 but purchased by the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad, is prominent in the early pages.

   Loehrer, BHS-64, has received some interesting feedback from former Toreadors of his era regarding their personal railroading experiences.

   Dick Musser, BHS-64, wrote, "thanks to the work of coal, sweat and myself, Fort Dodge has the smoothest track crossing streets in Iowa. The railroad experience was memorable for all."

   Mike Nyman, BHS-64, said, "I recall many summers ago working on the section gang with Al Markey and the Crandell brothers. It was the Fort Dodge, Des Moines railroad then."

   John Hendricks, BHS-64, added, "I lived 50' from the Fort Dodge, Des Moines and Southern tracks and maybe 100 yards from the Chicago and Northwestern switch yards. I worked a couple summers as a "gandy dancer" on the Fort Dodge line. Dad and grandpa were both railroad men and grandpa Walter Jipp was one of the founders of the Fort Dodge, Des Moines and Southern Railroad. So, yup, I found this article very interesting." 

   Pat Ahlstrom, BHS-64, wrote, "While in Boone recently we saw the old electric trolley with a pretty good load of passengers cross Story Street. It runs east, past the old northside Boyd's Dairy store to near the formerly glorious Jimmy Archer Field and then reverses back to the Boone and Scenic Valley yard. We stopped at the yard but the buildings were closed for that day. While there, whe chatted with our sixty years ago classmate, Alan  Schroeder, who volunteers for the Boone and Scenic Valley and is a certified engineer for the line. Railroading is still a pretty big deal in Boonetown."

   Loehrer concluded, "I saw this and thought some of you might be interested, especially since our livlihoods pretty much evolved being born in a railroad town. I was also thinking the alure of the railroads might be gone in a decade or so because we'll all be gone and those around didn't have the opportunity to grow up with trains in their lives and appreciate that history."

K-----K

   BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

  Richard A. Finnestad, 84, Boone. Born in Laurens. LHS-56. Earned a Bachelor's Degree from Buena Vista and a Master's from the University of Northern Colorado. Married Carolyn Stevens in 1966. They lived briefly in Thompson, Coon Rapids and Estherville before moving to Boone in 1970. After being a high school teacher/coach at Coon Rapids and Thompson, the family had come to Boone for Richard to be a counselor and registrar For DMACC for 30 years. Before coming to DMACC he had spent some time at Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville. Richard was a storyteller who took great pride in his Norwegian heritage. He enjoyed nature, woodworking, golf, hunting, fishing and playing cards as well as coffee time with friends. Survivors include his wife, Carolyn, and four daughters, including two from Boone, Krista Briley and Jennifer Finnestad. Services in Boone.

   Gregory Joseph Peitzmeier, 65, Pilot Mound. No services are planned.

   Floyd Killian, 84, Urbandale. While living in Boone in the 60's/70's, he was an announcer for KWBG radio. Married Boone native Shirlee Schwein, BHS-61. An avid fisherman, he also enjoyed camping. Survivors include his wife, Shirlee, a son and two daughters.

K-----K

   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices....

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

  

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Gregory Joseph Peitzmeier, 65, Pilot Mound. No services planned.

   Richard (Rich)  Finnestad, 84, Boone. Born in Laurens. LHS-56. Earned degrees from Buena Vista and the University of Northern Colorado. Married Carolyn Stevens in 1966. Moved to Boone in 1970 and was a counselor and  registrar for DMACC for 30 years. Survivors include his wife, Carolyn, and four daughters. Services in Boone.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Floyd Killian, 84, Urbandale. Floyd was an announcer at KWBG radio in the 1960's/70's. He passed away Friday morning in hospice in Johnston according to is wife, Boone native Shirlee Schwein Killian, BHS-61. She said Floyd had been facing lots of medical issues for a long time but with little pain. Survivors include his wife, Shirlee, a son and two daughters. A small family service is planned for next week.

BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS 

   Steven Mark Gilbert, 69, Ogden. Born in Idaho. Davis HS-70. Married Kim Nicholes and the couple moved to Iowa to work the family farm. In addition, he worked at Henrich Envelope, as a crop adjuster and finally, as a 25 year employee of the Soil and Water Conservation District. He was a musician, a drummer, who organized his own band, Sounds of Simulation. He loved gardening, bowling, golf and playing and umpiring co-ed slow pitch softball. Survivors include his wife, a brother and three adult children, including Tara Wright of Ogden. Services in Ogden and Beaver.

   Nell Mae Siders Borrusch, 90, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Missouri. BHS-50. Married Calvin Gerald Borrusch and they farmed. Calvin passed away in 2013. Nell had also worked as a telephone operator in Boone and Des Moines for over 40 years. A brother survives. No services at this time.

   Travis Daniel Watson, 51, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-89. Played football for the Toreadors, worked for the city parks department in the summer and attended DMACC, earning a degree in welding. He worked for General Filter in Ames until they closed. Returned to DMACC and attended culinary school. Then worked for the Ames school district lunch program until becoming disabled. Survivors include his father, Daniel Watson, his mother, Cindy Watson, a sister, an uncle and two aunts. Services in Boone and Ridgeport.

   Dixie Lee Louks Fink Honnold, 81, Nevada. Born in Nevada. NHS-59. Married William Fink in 1960. William died of cancer in 1985. Married Roger Honnold in 1995. They lived on an acreage near Ogden before moving to Grimes. There last years were spent in Pleasant Hill. Dixie loved to crochet and play games.Survivors include two adult children and three step-children and a sister. Services in Colo and Nevada.

   James (Jim) Nebbe, 83, Ogden. Born in Ogden. OHS. Jim's father passed away from tuberculosis when he was 15. Jim and his mom worked at Nebbe's Grocery Store, owned by his grandmother and managed by his aunt. After high school graduation, he moved to Southern California. Married Nancy Buchanan and they lived in several communities. Jim loved to be outside, golfing, fishing, snow mobiling, gardening. He also bowled and played ping pong. After retirement, he moved back to Ogden. Survivors include his three children and his local cousins, Doug and Denise Nebbe and Janet and Randy Reutter. 

K-----K

  Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices.....

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

  

 

   

  

BOONE AREA DEATH

   Steven Mark Gilbert, 69, Ogden. Born in Idaho. Returned to Iowa to work on the family farm. Also worked at Heinrich Envelope in Boone, as a crop adjuster and for 25 years for the Soil and Water Conservation District. He was a lifelong drummer who established his own band, Sounds of Simulation. He also enjoyed playing and umpiring co-ed slow pitch softball. Survivors include a brother and three children, including Tara Wright of Ogden. Services in Ogden.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Nell Mae Siders Borrusch, 90, Boone. Born in Missouri. BHS-50. Married Calvin Borrusch and they farmed. He passed in 2013. Nell was a telephone operator in Boone and Des Moines. No services are planned.

BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Travis Daniel Watson, 51, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-89. Played football for the Toreadors, worked for the Boone parks during the summers and earned a welding degree from DMACC. Worked for General Filter in Ames and when they closed, he returned to DMACC and earned a culinary degree. Worked for the Ames school system lunch program until becoming disabled. Survivors include his father, Daniel Watson, his mother, Cindy Watson, a sister, two aunts and an uncle. Services in Boone and Ridgeport.

   Dixie Lee Louks Fink Honold, 81, Nevada. Born in Nevada. Dixie and her second husband, Roger Honold, lived on an acreage outside of Ogden before moving to Grimes.

   ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: James (Jim) Nebbe, 83, Ogden. Born in Ogden. OHS. Moved to southern California and married Nancy Buchanan. Worked in the print industry for 50 years. In the early years in Ogden, he worked with his mom and grandmother at Nebbe's Grocery. His dad had died of tuberculosis when Jim was 15. In retirement, he moved back to Ogden. Survivors include three adult children and his local cousins, Doug and Denise Nebbe and Janet and Randy Reutter.

IOWA, WHAT A WONDERFUL STATE

   To some, I'm probably borderline obnoxious with my persistent, undying devotion to this wonderful state, Iowa, that I've occupied since birth. More specifically, Boone Iowa, but my loyalty to my longtime hometown has already appeared in numerous editions of the Korner. Hopefully, with more to come.

   So, today......its simply Iowa, the state.

   What a wonderful surprise. Scanning the internet this morning I caught a Fox News segment called, "Biking Across America." It was a lifestyle report featuring a Bob Barnes, a former Uber driver, and the banner line read, "NY man cycling to all 50 states reveals why Iowa is "best-kept secret.""

   The purpose of his journey is to raise awareness regarding the importance of donating blood. Many times across America, including his Iowa visit, he stopped for personal donations.

   The story, written by Ann Schmidt, features numerous great pictures of Iowa scenes.

   Schmidt writes, "while he was riding throught the Hawkeye State, Barnes discovered a small Dutch town called Pella, which he called, "a happy accident." "I just stumbled on it," Barnes said. "A lot of times, people will give me a heads-up about places to ride through. I didn't get a single message about Pella, so that was interesting. Pella was awesome. It was, honestly, like being in an amusement park." He said he loved, "the fact that its the United State of America and you can just stumble onto these towns like this. I'm starting to feel proud again."

   Schmidt adds, "later, when Barnes was in a small town called Victor (population 875 in 2020), he thought he spotted a campground, so he knocked on a nearby door. The man who answered, told him it wasn't a campground but that Barnes could just stay in his neighbor's yard, since she was, apparently, in Nebraska at the time. "Nobody'll bother you" the man told him, as Barnes recalled.

   Barnes set up his tent and had no issues that night. "That was another great moment," he said laughing.

   "Once I rolled into Iowa, you just feel the positive energy," he said. "I didn't know anything about Iowa. I had no stereotypes or preconceived notions.  'They're very caring. Everybody's upbeat," he added. "It was an awesome experience, along with the beautiful scenery."

   He concluded, "I love the fact that its the United State of America and you can just stumble onto these towns like this."

   Alright, you out-of-staters, I know, you're saying "ya, but you Iowans aren't minus problems either." Agreed, and we can have a good argument about those pros and cons. HOWEVER, I'd be surprised if this story didn't make you wince, at what you're missing, at least slightly.

K-----K

   Vern Modeland, BHS-50, responded to our recent discussion, the disposal of lifelong collected items. He wrote, "This seemingly pervasive preoccupation with the stuff of life brings a need to share. Wisest of my three granddaughters once shared with me that they refer to their mother's house as "Mom's Museum," as a reason for avoiding visits. It's full of two much dust, rust or but, "don't touch," she observed. What is there of life to really preserve? Only memories. My suggestion to others, as my granddaughter asked me to do, share them on some permanent recording device such as one she is sending me for "a narrative of growing up where and when and how." It's something they'll never have in any other form. Just a thought."

K-----K

  BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Jerald (Jerry) Custer Crise, 88, Boone. Born in Altoona. Attended Des Moines schools. Married Betty Fromm in Des Moines in 1953. The couple moved from Colfax to Boone in 1975 when Jerry was helping wire the Vet Med at ISU. He was an electrician for several companies, most recently Nelson Electric of Ames. Retired in 1996. A choir member at church, he loved NASCAR, gospel radio and was a Boy Scout leader for 10 plus years. He also operated a model train. Survivors include his wife, Betty, and six adult children, including Cinda Eckard, Mary Lou Carlson and Justin Crise of Boone. Services at Rose Hill near Luther.

   James (Jim) Nebbe, 83, Ogden.

   Nell Mae Borrusch, 90, Boone/Eastern Star. No services at this time.

K-----K

   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932 Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices.......

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

 

 

BOONE AREA DEATH

   James (Jim) Nebbe, 83, Ogden.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   "Nell" Mae Siders Borrusch, 90, Boone/Eastern Star. No services at this time.

WARREN COUNTY NEWSPAPER IS SAVED

   Excuse me. I'm dreaming again.

   In an instant, I discovered you CAN inhale excitement and disappointment via the same breath.

   There it was, a Des Moines Register headline, "Warren County residents BUY weekly newspaper." I was truly excited........but then I remembered, "Oh no, I'm 87 years old." What a disappointment that I can't "bite the bullet" and make an effort to  renew the Boone News Republican as we once knew it......with some real Boone news prevalent.

   Showing a strong commitment to the print media industry, a pair of real newspaper veterans, boasting over 50 years of such dedication, have saved Warren Counties newspaper AND Amy Duncan is 56 and her husband, Mark Davitt, is 70 years of age. Wow! Good for them.

   The purchase was made from Gannett, of course, and the plan is to continue publishing a weekly print edition, while also offering its news online. The Indianola couple are the founders and current publishers of the Indianola Independent Advocate online news site.

   The couple are certainly not outsiders. They have deep roots in the county, they live there and they're writing about their friends and neighbors who also live there, as well as coverage of all the local services offered...........obligation number one.

   Why can't someone in Boone County echo those feelings?  Naysayers will comment, "its what it is because of a lack of support."  I can't completely disagree with that. In recent years, some businesses, counted on for needed revenue, were forced to cut back or even close down. But, let's face it, for years now, since the Schaub's, Bob and Jeannine, lived and worked here and were in control,  succeeding ownership has paid little attention to knuckle down, door-to-door, person-to-person BOONE NEWS. The community has suffered a serious news dearth, without question. But who knows if a determined LOCAL effort couldn't revive that lost interest?

   I still think of those days when residents knew, on a timely basis, exactly what government entities, local and county, were doing, how businesses were faring, what organizations were "up to," what county sports coverage was provided, with an emphasis on BHS, and  enjoyed personal stories about those "friends and neighbors," their work and their achievements. Boone residents were able to keep up with what was happening here, good and, perhaps, some bad, but, at least, REAL HOMETOWN Boone news was available for local consumption.

   Yes, I guess I am dreaming that some day, some way, there will be a return to a deserved form of, at least, weekly, local communication. If so, I'm sorry I'll miss it, but those of you still available will know what's happening in this place you've chosen to call,"home."

K-----K

   CALENDAR UPDATE

   That Boone 11-year old all star baseball team defeated Johnston, 10-7, Thursday, as they progress through round-robin tournament competition. Yesterday, Friday, was to be their latest game.

   The Boone Historical Society has a series underway,"Saturday with a Scholar," and today, Saturday, July 9, Fred Greiner, former Fareway executive, is the speaker. He'll tell about his 50 year journey with Fareway, from being a carry-out boy to, eventually, becoming CEO. He's now retired. The event is from 1 to 3 p.m. in the lower level and there's no charge.

   Its a busy time in Boonetown. The 30th annual Iowa Municipal Band Festival is today, Saturday, July 9, with eight Iowa bands ready to perform, starting at 11 a.m. and concluding with the Boone band's 6 p.m. concert.

   The Boone County Fair is slated for this coming week, July 14-17, and Pufferbilly Days will be here, August 4-7.

   AND, you BHS/BSH graduates of 1957 have a 65 year reunion coming up August 19-20, 2022. That's a ways off but please let your committee know of your attendance plans by July 25.

K-----K

   BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS 

    Dennis R. Cooper, 71, Ames. Born in Ames. UnitedCHS-68. Earned an Ag Engineering degree from ISU in 1972. Married Joyce Pyle in Ames in 1985.Worked briefly at Caterpiller in Illinois but then returned to farm with his dad. Retired in 2022. He loved cycling and skiing and was a regular at Seven Oaks. Survivors include two sons and five siblings. Graveside service in Ames and a Celebration of Life at Seven Oaks near Boone.

   Norman Leroy Van Den Baard, 88, Cedar Rapids. Formerly of Boone.

   Michael Anthony Edwards, 54, Madrid. Born in Des Moines. MHS-85. Lived his entire life in Madrid. Married Desiree Fleming Grams in Ottumwa in 2002. Began working for the U.S. Postal Service in 1986 and retired in 2021. He was an ISU and Madrid Tiger fan. Survivors include his wife, Desiree, a son, a daughter, sister and brothers-in-law. Services in Madrid.

   Clarine Iola Steffensen, 100, Lake Mills. Survivors include four daughters, including Julie Foster of Boone. Services in Lake Mills.

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   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices....

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

  

  

  

  

   

  

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Dennis R. Cooper, 71, Ames. Born in Ames. UnitedCHS-68. Degree in Ag Engineering ISU-72. Married Joyce Pyle in Ames in 1985. Farmed with his dad. Retired in 2022. Survivors include two sons and five siblings. Graveside service in Ames and Celebration of Life at Seven Oaks near Boone.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Norman Van Den Baard, 88, Cedar Rapids, formerly of Boone.

BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Judith Lee Michael, 65, Boone/Eastern Star. Center Point. Formerly of Boone and Ames. Born in Mason City. English Valley HS-73. ISU. Worked in the Boone school system for over 20 years with a passion for Special Education. After retirement, worked for Genesis. Survivors include two daughters, including Jacquie Morton of Pilot Mound. two sisters, two brothers, including George Meiborg of Boone and a sister-in-law. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

   Michael Anthony Edwards, 54, Madrid. Born in Des Moines. MHS-85. Lifelong Madrid resident. Married Desiree Fleming Grams in 2002. Worked for the U.S. Postal Service from 1986 until retirement in 2021. Survivors include his wife, Desiree, a son, daughter and sister. Services in Madrid.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

   Mathew (Mat) D. Strable, 43, Urbandale. Formerly of Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-98. Worked at Jockos and for the Union Pacific for 13 years. From 2009-14, he earned his associate's degree from DMACC and drove a semi for eight years. Riding motorcycles, he was a Director's Assistant for three years for the Sleeping Angels Foundation, then worked at Menard's and started driving again. Was presently driving for PDI. Survivors include his son, Brandon, and his mother, Ramona Strable of Boone. His father, Harrison (Squeak) Strable, two brothers and two step-sisters, including Robin Good of Ogden also survive. Services in Boone.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Clarine Iola Aamodt Steffensen, 100, Lake Mills. Born near Joice IA. JHS-1939. Married DeVere Steffensen in 1943. Four daughters survive, including Julie Foster of Boone. Services in Lake Mills.

A NEW SCENIC VALLEY ADD-ON

   To the locals, this is probably "old news." But, to the many out-of-town, out-of-state Korner viewers, it should be "good new news" that their old central Iowa home town, Boone, Iowa, still "makes the map," nationwide, on occasion.

   Rail Explorers, featuring pedal-assisted railbikes, recently announced the launch of the Rail Explorers: Boone, Iowa Division at the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad as of July 21, 2022.

   So? Take that, you cities and states that think you're bigger and better. This Boone Iowa location will be their first location in the Midwest and just the fifth location in the Rail Explorers portfolio. Those other locations are Las Vegas; Cooperstown, NY; the Catskills, NY and Newport, Rhode Island. That's pretty good company to keep.

   These custom-built explorers are the latest development in pedal powered rail technology, and are the global leader in safety, design, and ease of operation. They are the founders of the railbike industry in the USA and pioneered this unique and exciting way to experience the magic of the railroad.

   The Boone division will utilize a custom-built electric motor on each railbike. This makes the ride truly effortless, ensuring the experience is enjoyable for all ages and abilities. A Quad bike, for up to four riders, and a tandem, for two riders, are available and some can be seen, displayed right now, at the Scenic Valley headquarters, 123 10th street.

   So, rather than standing still, the Scenic Valley is "going with a positive flow" and adding to its offerings, a new and unique way of viewing the beautiful Des Moines Valley on this 12.4 round trip tour.

   In addition, a portion of every Rail Explorers ticket sale will benefit the Scenic Valley AND over 35 jobs, including three full time positions in its first year, will be created.

K-----K

   RESPONSES? YES.

   A few viewers sent comments about our most recent edition regarding the accumulation of "stuff."

   Loren Frazier, BHS-58, wrote, "I think many of our generation are finding the same thing that you wrote about. Kids don't want any of our collection of old "stuff." Pat and I have already thrown out a lot and we've given things to the Salvation Army and Goodwill. Its sad in one way but we accept it and enjoy looking at the various items and thinking of the many good times we had."

   Dick Longworth, BHS-53, noted, "all of us, of this age, face this problem. The material you mentioned is different because it deals with a history of a certain place, a town we called home. This has real historical value and needs a proper permanent home. But where? Larry Adams may have an idea or it seems to me that this is what the Boone Historical Society is for. Then, there's the Iowa Historical Society which must have archives of every Iowa town or the libraries at Iowa State or SUI."

   John Kueck, BHS-61 wrote, "the younger set are more facebook prone and twice, I have had members speak up for some of my old memorabilia."

   John Hinz, BHS-64 added, "I have in my possession at least one Scroll from my late mother-in-law who was born in ce 1913." 

K-----K

   SHORT, SINGLE ADDITIONS

   (1) Lester Ross, BHS-67, is a proud grandpa. He told us his grandson, Colton Ross, fired a no-hitter to beat the Ankeny Little League all-stars recently. Colton's dad, Nathan, is the Boone coach. Those Boone L.L. All-Stars played yesterday (Tuesday) and will play tommorrow (Thursday) right here in Boonetown and Lester asks for some good support. (2) Vern Modeland, BHS-50, says, "podcasting is the biggest threat I see now. How do we ever put a real and profitable source of news, that is really news, back together? Sites, such as your blog are our only hope for the future of any true "news."" (3) Andy Anderson, BHS-62, is seeking any news, whatsoever, regarding former BHS teachers, Ms. Overby and Jim Sanders. He thought Ms. Overby came from Mississippi and eventually changed her name and moved to France. She taught English. Sanders taught math. The '62 class is having their 60th reunion, August 17-19, and they're looking for a former teacher from that class. (4) In his most recent letter to the Korner, Fred Groat, BHS-62, was reminded of a book written by Jan Thatcher (Kassulke). "Jan was a classmate, a good friend and a friendly academic rival. Jan was, in my opinion, hands down, the smartest and best student in our class. She became a medical doctor and wrote quite a book, published in 2011, that is right up the kornerman's alley. Lots of good Boone and sports connections."

K-----K

   BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Robert Joseph Moritz, 90, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Storm Lake. SLHS-50. Married Betty Lou Jacobson in 1955. The couple lived in Storm Lake until moving to Algona in 1963. In 1970, they moved to Humboldt and came to Boone in 1980. Starting in 1958, served over 39 years in the National Guard, receiving many medals, awards and commendations. A proud Catholic, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, movies and was a collector of guns, coins and stamps. Betty died in 2002. Survivors include a daughter and a sister. Services in Boone.

   Leonard Dean Sternquist, 88, Boone. Had been in Community Living Center in Des Moines in recent weeks. Born in Boone. BHS-51. Married Patricia Lynette Rinehart in Boone in 1956. Worked with his father at Sternquist Garage and became the owner of the garage when he returned from service time during the Korean War in the early to mid-50's. The couple taught Sunday School for many years at the First United Methodist Church. An accomplished musician, he played guitar with the Blue Notes and later, the piano with the Maple Street 7, West Des Moines Dixie Land Band and at Shakey's Pizza Parlor in Ames. For many years, the couple taught, competed and enjoyed the international style of ballroom dancing. Survivors include his wife, Patricia, of Boone, two daughters, Susan Moorman and Laura Sternquist, and two brothers, Don and David Sternquist. Private services in Boone.

    Mathew (Mat) Strable, 43, Urbandale. Formerly of Boone. BHS-97. Survivors include a son, Brandon Strable, of Boone.

   Joan Reinart, 74, Boone. Formerly of Carroll. Born in Carroll. Westside AR-WE-VA HS-65. Attended trade school in Omaha. Married Alvin Reinart in 1983 and the couple resided in Carroll. Alvin died in 2020. Joan worked at St. Anthony Hospital Lab and at Tony's Restaurant. She struggled with health issues much of her life. Survivors include her husband, Ryan Hart, of Boone, a daughter, three siblings and three brothers and sisters-in-law. Services in Carroll.

   Darrell D. Erickson, 89, Boone/Eastern Star. The family lived in Ogden until 1945 when they moved to a farm east of Luther. Napier HS-52. Worked at ISU and entered the Army in 1953. Married Marilyn Rosene Erickson in 1955 in Luther. During winter quarters, Darrell utilized the G.I. bill, attending ISU. In 1998, the couple moved to the farm where Marilyn grew up, two miles west of Luther. For 30 years, the couple spent the winters in Harlingen, TX. Darrell was active in the local co-op, the Boone County Fair Board, Farm Bureau Board of Directors and the Madrid Lions Club.The couple covered the nation in their motor home. Survivors include his wife, Marilyn, son Denny, brothers Dar and Chuck Erickson, sister Sharon Pohl, brother-in-law Bill Shreve and sister-in-law, Dino Rosene. Services will be held at a later date.

   Elizabeth Boswell, 78, Vancouver, WA. Grew up in Boone but in 1957, prior to the start of her eighth grade year, the family moved to Des Moines.

   Clarice Delores Lundberg, 89, Dayton/Eastern Star. Services in Dayton.

   Frances "Fran" Minot Skank, 85, Ames. Survivors include a son, James Alma Skank Minot, of Madrid. Services in Ames.

K-----K

   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices.....

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.

   

   

  

 

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Mathew (Mat) D. Strable, 43, Urbandale. Formerly of Boone. BHS-97. Survivors include a son, Brandon Strable, of Boone.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Joan Ewoldt Reinart, 74, Boone. Formerly of Carroll. Born in Carroll. Ar-We-Va HS-65. Attended trade school in Omaha. Married Alvin Reinart in 1983. He died in 2020. The couple lived in Carroll. Worked at St. Anthony hospital lab and Tony's Restaurant. Survivors include her husband, Ryan Hart, and a daughter,  Melissa, both of Boone. Three brothers also survive. Services in Carroll.

BOONE CONNECTED DEATH

   Darrell E. Erickson, 89, Boone/Eastern Star. Family lived in Ogden until 1945 when they moved to a farm near Luther. Napier HS-52. Army vet. Married Marilyn Rosene Erickson in 1955. In 1998, moved two miles west of Luther, where Marilyn grew up. For over 30 years, winters were spent in Harlingen, TX. Survivors include his wife, Marilyn, of Boone, a son, Denny, two brothers, Dar and Chuck Erickson, a sister,  Sharon Pohl, brother-in-law, Bill Shreve, and a sister-in-law, Dino Rosene. Services in Boone.

   Elizabeth A. Boswell, 78, Vancouver, WA. Grew up in Boone before the family moved to Des Moines in 1957 prior to beginning her eighth grade year.

BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Clarice Lundberg, 89, Dayton/Eastern Star.

   Frances "Fran" Minot Skank, 85, Ames. Survivors include a son, James Alma Skank Minot, of Madrid. Services in Ames.

ENJOY THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND....AND BE SAFE

    BOONE CONNECTED/AREA DEATHS

   Kristy Mae Blaha, 66, Boone. Born in Sioux City. Crestland HS, Early IA-74. Iowa Central Community College. Married David Blaha in Sac City in 1976. The couple settled in Boone in 1979. Worked as a receptionist for several businesses, most recently for Dr. Cook at Forefront Dermatology in Ames. Loved Hallmark movies and the Hawkeyes as well as her entire family. Survivors include her husband, David, a daughter, Jodi Kuehl, and a son, Matthew Blaha, all of Boone. Another son and a sister also survive. Services in Boone.

   Leonard Dean Sternquist, 88, Boone

   Carol Jean Hedlund, 67, Boone. Born in Illinois. Married Larry Harold Hedlund. He passed in 2020. She loved traveling with Larry in his semi. Enjoyed latch hook, paint by numbers and her two special dogs. Survivors include two sisters and two step-sons. Services in Polk City.

   John Coleman, 82, Boone. Born in Boone. Elementary school in Frazier. Then the family moved to Boone in 1954. BHS-58. Met Leila at BHS and they married in 1961. Earned a degree from DMACC  and joined the Army National Guard. Worked for the DOT in Ames and Des Moines. Then, became Chief Information Officer for Iowa Beef Processors in Sioux City. Retiring from IBP, the family returned to Boone. John served numerous church positions as an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He and his sister, Carol, were talented musicians who performed together at many functions including the Bill Riley Talent Show at the Iowa State Fair. Survivors include his wife, Leila, three adult children, his sister, Carol Steininger, a brother, David Coleman, a brother-in-law and  daughter-in-law. Services in Ames.

   Diana Dee Huff Knauf, 67, Boone. Born in Mason City. Attended school in Sheffield. Married Mitchell Knauf in Nashua in 1999. Worked as a CNA in Hampton and owned a cleaning business in Phoenix, "All Hands Cleaning." Was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints in Boone. Survivors include her husband, Mitchell, a daughter, five sons, two sisters and a brother. Services in Hampton, with a later service sometime in Boone.

   Ruth Beaman, 90, Adel. Born in Madrid. Services in Adel. 

K-----K

   Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices......

kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.