ITS A MISHMASH TODAY

       I, the Kornerman, must confess, I'm not a die-hard racing fan, although I have a passing interest in the past and upcoming races and I do know some of the history, past and present, nationally and locally, of this long time sport.

       Despite this somewhat limited appeal, I do, as all Iowans should, "bust our buttons" for the great success of the NASCAR events in Newton and the annual race schedules at Knoxville and, especially, in Boone.

       A sell-out crowd watched the action at the Iowa Speedway over the weekend and both the Knoxville and Boone tracks will be attracting their usual terrific support for their upcoming events. These are events for all Iowans to be proud of and wonderful assets for our state to point to.

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       An old friend, former KWBG announcer Mark Campbell, BHS-67, has some good information to relay regarding our recent spiel about the changes underway for AM radio.

       He mentions that K-Dub has an FM translator 101.5 and "it has pretty good coverage, even to the south at night where the AM doesn't quite make it due to directional requirements." 

       Mark went on to say that, "I'm with Vern Modeland on this one. Its disappointing to hear AM stations go dark. WBT in Charlotte, N.C. just switched its new/talk format to FM. WSB in Atlanta no longer identifies its AM frequency (750). Instead it is WSB-95.5. Local small market stations are dropping like flies. KGRN Grinnell and the former KCOB-Newton are dark and the future does not bode well for other big stations. KMOX St.Louis and WCCO-Minneapolis, former powerhouses in their respective markets, are not even in the top 10. Its a sad time for us former radio folks and listeners. But one surprise. The former WOW-Omaha went dark within the past year but one enterprising buyer is putting the AM-590 back on the air with WOW call letters."

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       Always nice to hear from former residents.

       The Kornerman had a good visit with Tom Lainson, BHS-57, who is now a settled resident of Dallas after a long work career with Coldwell Banker Real Estate. Tom says his days of travel to Boone are probably "over now," as he still dreams of those Boyd's malts. Tom grew up near the number three tee at the Boone Golf and Country Club. His wife, Sandy Shadle, BHS-59, grew up at 1128 Crawford.

       Betty McElyea Vitt wrote, "I religiously read your blog after my sister, Marilyn, BHS-54, told me about it. She was an avid Kelley's Korner fan. Marilyn passed away in California in 2024." Betty also lost her husband, BHS-57 classmate, Fred Vitt, in 2010.

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       Finally, an item in the recent news caught my eye. In 1896, the first recorded speeding ticket was issued. Some poor person was cited for driving (I don't know what) eight miles per hour in a two miles per hour zone.

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        Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, 928 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices........https://kelleyskorner1@blog spot. com. 

        

        

        

        

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Shirley Lorraine Ross Parrish, 92, Tennesee. Born in Boone. BHS-52. Her parents (deceased) were Clayton and Edna Ross. She married into the military and lived in various states. Settled in Tennessee. A sister, Dorothy Ross Harris, BHS-50, of Boone, preceded her in death. A daughter survives. Services in Tennessee. 

       Mershell Frist Putman, 74, Des Moines. Born in Boone. Final Boone Ryan High School class 1970. Earned a stenographic diploma from AIB in Des Moines. Her parents (deceased) are Ruth and Wayne Frist. Was blessed with a "bonus dad," LeRoy McGinnis, also now deceased but an important part of her life. Married Richard Putnam of Perry in 1972. Mershell had a distinguished military career at a Air National Guard base in California before returning to Iowa for 12 years of part-time service. She lived in St. Charles while working for Principal Financial, moved to Harlan to be a full-time legal secretary and then to Carlisle to continue her military service in Des Moines. She totaled 32 years of military service, including 20 years full-time and a rank of E-8. That service took her across the world. After retirement, she worked for a law firm until May of 2025. Mershell was deeply involved in community and church endeavors and had a special gift of bringing people together. Survivors include two daughters, a brother, Mike (Judy) Frist of Boone, and a sister. Services in Des Moines and Adel. 

WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?

       Yes, I know, some of us are old and even, occasionally, cranky but that long experience can be a valuable asset.

        That's why we always enjoy hearing from 94-year old Vern Modeland, BHS-50, for his observations of the world today, yesterday and, perhaps, even tomorrow. Communication has always been one of his greatest sources of wisdom.

        That love started with famous Boone High School physics instructor H.L. Cunningham and continued with work at KWBG and a couple other area  radio stations. Eventually, he secured an almost lifetime position, both in the mechanical operation, as well as on-air duties, with the Iowa "big guy," coast-to-coast WHO, Des Moines, Radio AM/FM-TV.

        Vern is a close Korner and world "watcher" and in his latest offering, he's very concerned about something that could eventually impact all of us.

        It would be interesting to know how many radios appear in an average American home. One in the kitchen for sure, followed by the bathroom, living room, bedroom and, of course, even the garage. We're not even going to mention our vehicle options.

        There are those who already lock in faithfully to the FM mode but a vast majority still depend on AM material and if that would disappear, as Vern thinks it will, a game changer in every day living would be the result.

        In all honestly, I, the Kornerman, admit I am not savvy to this situation. I've done no research or made any effort to decipher the why's and where-fores, although I have had glimmers of some type of change in the way we listen to radio. I just know Vern is upset about all of the possibilities.

        He wrote, "I've spent the day online researching this latest broadcast radio thing. It turns out I may be one of the last to know how dead and dying it really is. I listened with sadness last night to the Tulsa clear channel radio voice advising its listeners that it was "moving" at the end of the month to 95 Mhz and there would be no more AM available. No other explanation, just, "it will be.""

        Vern concluded, "be prepared for the end of AM broadcast radio and the wonderful clear channel stations that allowed a look-in on the life and thoughts of those not adjusted to the blogs and thought control most recently encroaching on our lives."

        As we all have made our way through years of life, we've experienced many changes. Some have exploded into greatness while others have been a dud, and then there are those that, as my mother used to say, we should just give some time too, "wait and see." 

        I imagine, eventually, we'll find out.....something.......for sure.

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        Congratulations to another BHS grad who is making an impressive move.......good for him and good for Iowa State University.

        Jesse Howard, BHS-93, is joining the ISU Department of Music and Theatre as the Theatre Office Coordinator.

        An ISU news release stated, "Jessie will be a valuable asset to our department as he supports our students, faculty, and staff in creating a collaborative and welcoming environment."

        The release adds, "Jessie brings more than 25 years of experience in administration, operations, customer service, and leadership across healthcare, higher education partnerships, and technology. As Technical and Volunteer Coordinator at Mary Greeley Medical Center's hospice, and formerly, Israel Family Hospice House, he manages administrative operations, coordinates volunteers, supports special events, and collaborates across departments to provide exceptional service to patients and families."

        The Kornerman has known Jessie as an extremely dedicated longtime supporter of Boone youth baseball, primarily as a top notch umpire.....good enough to be selected to work worldwide championship baseball games in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA.

        Congratulations to another Boone resident who has earned the praise of his home community.

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        Worldwide Korner headquarters are still located at 929 South Jackson, Boone, Iowa 50036-4932. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message.To email your stories/memories/comments/death notices......https:/kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

         

         

         

          

          

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Larry Wayne (Como) Reutter, 89, Ogden. Born in Ogden. Raised on a family farm between Boxholm and Pilot Mound. Boxholm HS-57. Married Jacqueline Marie Craven in 1965. He was the eighth of what would become 15 children. He often talked about the school bus coming to the house and nine children either coming or going. During a junior high concert, Larry sang a solo and his friends began calling him Como, referring to a popular singer of the day, Perry Como. A big Chicago Cub fan, Como started work driving a dump truck and in construction. Returning to farming, Como and his brother Jake were partners, farming over 2300 acres until retirement in 2009. Survivors include his wife, Jacqueline, of Ogden, a son, Chad, and a daughter, Heather and siblings, including Leo Reutter of Boone and Marlene Rabern of Ogden. A COL will be held in Ogden.

       Gloria A. Elsberry Stiles, 82, Boone. Born in Boone. Her parents were A.Ben and Ruby (Williams) Elsberry. Both are deceased. Grand Community HS-62. Married Danny Stiles in Boone in 1966. Gloria worked at Bournes from 1964-83, then was a part time night shift worker at the ISU Medical Center. From 1988-98 she helped Danny at Stiles Fix It Shop while also taking care of her mother. Gloria had an addiction to anything M&M's with 3,500 pieces collected. She loved travel, cross stitch and scrapbooking. Survivors include her husband, Danny, two sons, Randy (Megan) and Brian "Boomer" Stiles all of Boone. A COP will be held. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Judy M. Walters Keel, 67, Ogden. Born in Belmond. He parents were Marvin and Gladys Walters, both deceased. Educated in Boone. Married David Keel in Ogden in 1985. David is deceased. Judy enjoyed golfing. Survivors include a son, T.J. (Amy) Keel of Ames, a grandson, Trevor Keel, of Ames and a brother, Jerry (Eva) Walters of Boone. Services in Ogden. 

       Larry (Como) Reutter, 89, Ogden/Accura Health. 

       Betty Jo (Kueck) Swanson, 93, Boone. Born in Missouri. William Chrisman HS. Married Kenneth G. Swanson in Boone in 1975. Betty Jo worked as a secretary for many companies in Missouri, California and Iowa including the Rolfes Company in Boone for 15 years and the Iowa High School Athletic Association for 10 years. She loved sports and played competitive tennis for many years. Survivors include her husband, Kenneth, and two sons, Robert, BHS-81, and Eric, BHS-82, Foster. Services in Boone.

       Melvin Craven, 82, Burlington. Born in Boone. His parents were Charles and Audrey (Bennett) Craven. Stanhope HS-62. National Guard vet, 1961-69. Married Judy Kruse in Ogden in 1964. Worked at Danfoss for 37 years. He enjoyed camping, traveling and having projects to work on. Survivors include his wife, Judy, their children, Alan and Laurie, a sister, Jan Monson, and a brother, Dennis (Bobby) Craven. Services in Burlington. 

       Ina Belle (Mo) Bertrand Lofy, 97, Boone. Born in Kansas. Married Lawrence Ray Peterson in 1946. After living on a farm near Morganville, KS, the family moved to Boone in 1962. Ray died in 1968 and in 1972, Ina Belle married Richard Lofy and a move was made to Clear Lake. An expert seamstress, she had a passion for quilting. During some time at Garner, IA, she worked at Country Threads Quilt Shop until retirement at age 85. Earlier in life, she had worked at Bourns and Hach Chemical in Ames. Ina Belle enjoyed flower gardening, crocheting, sewing and was an avid bowler. Survivors include a brother and three children, including Deborah (Alan) Arringdale of Boone. No services are planned. 

       Pauline Foshe Osentowski, Lincoln, Neb. Survivors include a brother, Ron (Nancy) Foshe of Madrid. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Roger Wyant Cook, 92, Boone/Dayton/Eastern Star. Born in Missouri. Eagleville HS-52. Earned a teaching degree from Northwest Missouri State and a Master's in education from Iowa State. He taught in Missouri and Bedford, IA, along with National Guard service. The family moved to Boone in 1962 where Roger began a 32-year career at Boone Jr/Sr HS. He taught government, was a guidance counselor, coached four different sports, was a basketball official and Goeppinger Field announcer. Roger enjoyed farming, golfing, boating, playing slow pitch and was a lifelong horse lover who trained and raced thoroughbreds at regional tracks. He also served on the Boone City Council. In 1984, Roger married Jo Corso of Davenport and the couple began a 40-year journey together until Jo's death. Roger was also preceded in death by his former wife and mother of his children, Joyce (Hutton) Cook. Survivors include his children and stepchildren, including Amy Priest of Boone.      

        Mary Margaret Parker, 83, Boone. Formerly of Granite City, IL. Survivors include a daughter, Connie (Dan Meyer) Parker of Boone. Services in Illinois. 

        Richard (Dick) Lee Carr, 94, Ames. Born in Boone. Services in Ames.

        Barbara Jean Pedersen Johnson, 71, Boone. Born in Minnesota. Her parents were Harold and Eve Pedersen. Survivors include her husband, Kevin Johnson, three children, as well as step-children and foster children and two siblings. A COL is planned.

        Elaine Sue Youngren, Ankeny, Formerly of Dayton. Was a social worker who served in various capacities at several agencies, including in Boone. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Daniel Everett Buss, 74, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-70. DMACC-72. Earned a B.S. in Industrial Administration from Iowa State in 1974. Married Sandra Hansen, BHS-71, in 1972. Dan began his accounting profession in 1974, working for a firm in Marshalltown. After four years, in 1978, the couple moved to Boone and Dan joined D.D. Pyle Company CPA's in Ames, where he later became a partner. He was a working CPA for 41 years. Dan was known for his great work ethic, business mind, kindness and concern for others. He enjoyed woodworking and remodeling/building three homes, pheasant hunting, skiing, fishing in Canada and golfing. He planned and managed two housing developments, was a founding member of Pheasants Forever and an active church member. Survivors include his wife, Sandra, two daughters, Julie and Suzanne, and a son, Joseph. Services in Boone.   

       VERY LATE REPORT: Ronald Lee Flockhart, 88, Morristown, TN. Ron passed away in June of 2020. Born in Boone. BHS-51. Iowa State University, 1957. Married Kay Calista Honohan Flockhart, BHS-51, in 1957. Started working for Kraft while in college and the couple lived in Illinois, Minnesota, New York and Pennsylvania. He was plant manager in Albany, MN and Norwich, NY. During his time with Kraft, he worked in three different divisions, finally retiring in 1987. He then worked for Sorrento Cheese Company in Buffalo, NY as Vice President of Quality and Environment Control. The couple retired to Morristown, TN in 1995 where they were active in church and the Morristown Theatre Guild. Survivors include his wife, Kay, of Morristown, a son, Gary, a daughter, Calista Kay Flockhart and her husband, Harrison Ford, of California, a sister-in-law, Dodie Flockfart of Stratford and brother-in-law, Jay Honohan, BHS-48. of Iowa City. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, George and Jewel Flockhart of Boone and his brother, Larry Flockhart, of Stratford. Services were held in Morristown.

       Robert Dale Pigott, 77, Summerville, SC. Memorials requested for March of Dimes, Boone, Iowa. Service in South Carolina.

       Lois A. Johnson, 86, Rockford, Ill. Among other places, Lois worked at the First Evangelical Free Church in Boone. She loved music and was a talented pianist. Lois spent her lifetime active in church ministries. Her husband, Bob, and two children survive. Services in Rockford.

       Gary Clyde Finch, 82, Des Moines. Born in Boone where he attended kindergarten at Lincoln Elementary. Moving to the Des Moines area, he attended a two-room schoolhouse, Cloverhill, for first through eighth grade, then grades nine and 10 at Norwalk before graduating from Des Moines Lincoln HS. Services in Des Moines. 

A VARIETY OF ENTRIES

       Former Toreador Pete Kostelnick, fortyish now, continues to amaze.

       The 2005 BHS graduate has a long and sterling record as a marathon-plus runner, despite the fact some serious injuries had laid him up and destroyed some opportunities during a prime time of his career.

        He just completed the "world's toughest foot race," the Badwater Ultramarathon, and he showed that he is still a fearless, tough competitor.

        The Ultramarathon is a 135 mile race in California's Death Valley, running from the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin) to the highest point in the contiguous U.S. (Whitney Portal). Its held annually in July, known for extreme heat, over 120 degrees F, with a significant elevation gain, 14,600 feet, for a 24 hour time limit, requiring runners to have a support crew for hydration and nutrition. Its a grueling test of physical and mental endurance over a course that crosses three mountain ranges.

        This 39th annual event featured a cast of 98 competitors, including 28 women and representatives of 21 nations.

        Kostelnick has competed in this event several times and was a winner in both 2015 and 2016 with even more impressive finishes as well. He was third in 2025 and came in eighth this year. 

        And who can forget his record-setting run cross country, from the West Coast to New York City, a few years back, in 2016.

        Pete's proud parents, Charles and Clair Kostelnick, are Boone residents.

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        While we're saluting Booneites who have excelled, how about Eric Ver Helst, BHS-2000. 

        The son of Jack and Sharon Ver Helst is well known for his enthusiastic style of public address announcing for DMACC and Toreador athletic events and now this.......he's been selected to do some of that work at the famous Field of Dreams for Major League baseball activity there next spring. Congrats Eric.

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         The Kornerman has received some feedback to a couple of recent stories.

         Davi Mondt Lowman, BHS-67, sent a lengthy response to the recent, " The Story Goes On and On" article.

         Davi partially wrote, "I am going to say one thing to you regarding your thoughts/opinion regarding Caitlin Clark. Stop it. You may not realize, but you are contributing towards the misogynistic effort to place female athletes in impossible situations." She concluded with "I'd appreciate it if you'd give her the respect she deserves instead of betting on "who" will give her some undeserved technical foul." 

         The other material was about how women, including Clark, are, generally, badly mistreated by some of the public and even some members of the press. Its opinions heard around the world on a daily basis. No need to repeat them here.

          Nobody has been a bigger supporter or more respectful than I of Caitlin Clark and her achievements. Maybe Davi is correct. But my take was intended to be just a little different, humorous sidelight of a story that, seemingly, has endured every type of emotion and coverage available and then some.

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          Vern Modeland, BHS-50, noticed the death of a classmate, Donald Diehl. Vern said, "Keep that up and I'll be the only one left. Chilling thought. Hang in there, keep the web site going as long as you can now that you are the county's only news source."

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         I referenced recently how my name Mo has been changed to Morris as I get older. John Kueck, BHS-61, can relate. He said he was at a ski club years ago and rooms has been reassigned. "They started the names to hand out the keys......Thompson, Anderson, Miller but when they came to Kueck, they simply called out  "John."

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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......https:/kelleyskorner1@blog spot. 

          

          

          

          

          

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Donald Lee Diehl, 94, Coralville. Born in Boone. BHS-50 cheerleader. Coast Guard vet. State University of Iowa, where he earned an undergraduate degree before a Juris Doctor degree. He joined the Iowa State Bar in 1960 and practiced law in the Coralville/Iowa City area for 64 years, retiring in 2025. For 63 years, he was the Coralville City Attorney. Married Shirley and the couple had three children and two step-daughters. Don was a lifelong collector of classic cars, coins, firearms and antiques and the couple traveled the country. He believed in living every day to its fullest, work hard, play hard and always ready to laugh. A COL will be held.      

        Roger Wyant Cook, 92, Boone. COL in Boone. Private family service. 

        Mike Caruth, 72, Nevada. Survivors include his wife, Shari, his mother Doris of Stratford and five children including Melinda Caruth of Boone. A COL in Nevada.       

        Josephine (Jo) Anne Aulick, 90, Thorson, IL/Boone Eastern Star. Among the survivors is a daughter, Michelle (Shelly) Kreuder of Boone. Services in Illinois and Wisconsin.

THE STORY GOES ON AND ON

       I assume there are those few who live under a rock, without any type of available communication, have no knowledge, whatsoever, of this Caitlin "thing."

       Heavens, even the major television networks have joined all the nation's major newspapers to report their latest findings on the Iowa super star basketball player.

       I, the Kornerman, don't intend to take a moment of time, yours or mine, to rehash the start and continuation of this story. HOWEVER, something has popped into this old mind that may, eventually, add another layer of intrigue into this adventure.

       Perhaps it's strange, but regarding this coming story addition, I'm thinking of one-hit wonders through the years. Anybody out there remember Bobby McFerren? The singer is kind of forgotten but we still hear, "Don't worry, be happy" now and then.

      There are so many similar cases ........musically there's C.W. McCall and "Convoy"; the Ballad of Davy Crockett; Carl Perkins and his "Blue Suede Shoes", Jeannie C. Riley and "Harper Valley P.A" and way back, remember singing along "this ole house" with Stuart Hamblen. In various other facets of our lives, we can all remember other "one hit wonders".........things, here today, gone tomorrow.....beanie babies, pet rocks, flappy bird and anything 3D.

       So, what in the world does this have to do with the Caitlin story?

       I'm predicting we may soon see another one hit wonder as part of this saga.

       As I understand it, the WNBA basketball league, without serious consequences, has a limit of technical fouls that can be charged to an individual. Our girl Caitlin is the current leader in that category with  seven fouls. BUT, anything beyond eight technicals will require a one game suspension. So, she's walking? a tight rope the remainder of the season.

       Maybe it will never happen but I count 16 games remaining on the Fever's regular season schedule. As of this offering, they have an 18-10 record so Caitlin has had her seven technicals in 28 games and we all know her passion for the game and her corresponding histrionics, which can erupt at any time she feels disrespected or fouled.

       My question then is this..........which one of the WNBA officials cadre will be the one to assess that eighth technical? Will any one of them look forward to it? Or,will they want to completely avoid the possibility? And, who knows, maybe, somehow, the league office will never allow that maximum to occur to its biggest star.

       Still, it will be interesting to see the possibility of this scenario "playing out." If it does occur, will the assessor of the famous foul/suspension become a hero, a villain or just another "one hit wonder?" 

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       Love it, love it, love it, especially when one of our own is successful.

       Chris Murphy, a former Toreador athlete, BHS-99, has been in the midst of a fantastic journey. He is an assistant coach for the 2026 Grandview Christian Thunder softball team that recently won the state 2-A championship. Then too, his daughter, Mariah is the senior catcher on that team. The future is bright also. The team had just two senior players, along with four sophomores, two freshmen and an eighth grader.

       Beyond all that, in the 2026-27 school year, Chris will take the reins as the Grandview Christian School Superintendent.

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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 stories/memories/comments/death notices.......https:/kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

 

        

        

 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Dennis Arthur Bass, 82, Waterloo. Born in Boone. Moved to Waterloo and worked at Rath Packing, John Deere, Cashway Lumber and Tyson. Survivors include his wife, Sharon, three sons and three brothers, including Tom (Carolyn) Bass and Larry Bass both of Boone. Services in Waterloo. 

       James Kobrnusz, 48, North Las Vegas, CA. Born in Corydon, a twin son of Lonnie A. Kobernusz and Cheryl Lesch. Was a former camp counselor at Camp Hantesa near Boone. His mother survives. His father, Lonnie A. Kobernusz is deceased. Memorial donations are suggested for Camp Hantesa.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Joyce Ann Ervin Rouse, 87, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Ottumwa. OHS. University of Iowa College of Nursing. Married Wayne Rouse in Iowa City in 1961. The couple lived in Saginaw, Michigan during Wayne's medical internship and on Midway Island when he was in the Navy. Boone became home in 1964, Wayne as a doctor and Joyce as a full-time homemaker. She enjoyed being involved in many organizations, including the Salvation Army, her church and NP PEO. She also loved hosting people in her home.Joyce enjoyed needlepoint and her gigantic cookbook collection. The family children and grandchildren were dearly loved and she was passionate about spending time with them. She thrived in the sunshine and hot weather and loved driving her red mustang convertible with the top down. Joyce loved gardening and pets were also an important part of her life. Survivors include a daughter, Diana (Perry) Byriel of Boone and a son, David (Linda) of Florida as well as the grandchildren. Services in Boone.

       Albert (Al) Sorenson, 94, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Des Moines. Grew up near Norwalk. Married JoAnn Jeffries in 1951. Army vet. Settled north of Madrid. After farming, Al set up an insurance business outside of Madrid. He also served as Boone County Auditor for almost 16 years. Then, he was an Iowa State Senator for five years and served two terms as Boone County Supervisor. The couple set up the Hancock House, a bed/breakfast in 1989, finally retiring to the Regency in 2012. Survivors include his wife, JoAnn, of Boone and three children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Services in Boone and Adel.

       Cheryl Leichliter Tilley, 79, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Boone. Married Richard Tilley in 1980. Richard died in 1999. Cheryl worked as a cosmetologist at Spurgeon's for a number of years. Also worked as a crossing guard, a site manager and deliverer for congregate meals, helped lead a group of widows and widowers called Lados and was a foster parent from 2000 to 2008. Cheryl enjoyed bible studies in her home. Survivors include a son, Wayne Tourville, a step-son, Mark Tilley and nieces and nephews. Services in Boone.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Eddie Dean Pritchard, 91, Cedar Falls. Born in Boone. BHS-53. Eddy served as a police officer in Sioux City during the 60's. Retired from the military as a Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CWO3). He was active in the military from 1953-77.He married Alyce Jacob in Lehigh in 1955. She died in  2011. He married Phyliss Hathaway in Waterloo in 2014. After years in law enforcement, Eddie became a security guard at the Waterloo John Deere Foundry, working there for 23 years before retirement in 1997. Even then, he continued as a tour guide at the John Deere plants. Eddie studied ministry part-time at Cornell College and became a certified lay minister in 2016, filling in at various area churches. He was very involved in Masonic work and was a two-time Past Master. He enjoyed fishing and completed RAGBRAI seven times. Survivors include his wife, Phyliss, a son and daughter and a step-son and step-daughter. Services in Waterloo and Elkhart.      

        Jason Danner, 54, Boone. Born in Carroll. Glidden-Ralston HS-90. Received an AA degree from Iowa Central CC in May of 1992 and then a bachelor's degree in Ag Business from Iowa State in 1994. Married Monica Stangl in Manning in 1996. Jason worked in the agronomy field at several co-ops before moving to Boone and joining Heartland Co-op, where he was still employed. In his early years, he played slow pitch softball and he always has had a passion for classic cars, especially Corvettes. An avid Cyclone fan, he attended Cyclone football and basketball games with his family. He enjoyed riding his bike and supporting his daughters various events. Survivors include his wife, Monica, two daughters, Madyln and Natalee Danner, eight siblings and numerous in-laws. Services in Boone. 

        Susan Alane Thompson Berg, 78, Boone/Ames. Born in Fort Dodge. Her dad was an Air Force Officer, so her early years featured movement to six states, Newfoundland and the Far East. Despite her travels, she remained anchored to her Iowa roots. She was crowned Miss Iowa in 1968 and was Second Runner-up in the 1969 Miss America Scholarship Pageant. Susan earned a B.A from the University of Iowa in 1972 and a Master of Arts degree from Iowa State in 1978. Earlier in life, Susan married Thomas Good. Then, in 1991, she married Keith Berg. Susan was deeply proud of her Norwegian heritage and, of course, her entire family. A gifted watercolorist for over 30 years and a dedicated educator, she served on the teaching faculty at Iowa State University's College of Design for two decades. Survivors include her husband, Keith, of Boone, four sons, Wade, Matthew, Adam and Aaron and their wives,  Keith's daughter, Mareny Berg, her brother, John Thompson, and several grandchildren. Services in Boone.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Kevin Scott Ford, 68, Boone. Passed after a long cancer battle. Born in Webster City. BHS-76. Worked at Duffy Appliance for more than 20 years, then at the Fareway warehouse for 25 years until retirement. Kevin enjoyed pheasant hunting and shooting sporting clays. He had a passion for Harley Davidson motorcycles, which he owned and rode for more than 20 years. Survivors include his partner of 14 years, Becky (Barstad) Wilson, a son Brock, a daughter, Drennon, and his sister, Deb Svaleson, of Boone. A COL will be held in Boone.

       Anthony (Tony) Ward, 85, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Denver. United Community HS-59. Earned an Associates Degree from Ellsworth Community College. Was an Armed Forces vet. Married; Joan (Price) Garvey in 1864. After raising six children/step-children, they divorced. Worked for John Deere 30 years before retirement in 1995. Served as a Vice President and Secretary of the local union. Married JoAnn (Dorsey) Friedmeyer in 1988. The couple wintered in Tucson and also spent time in Bella Vista, AR. For seven years, they traveled their motorhome from coast to coast. He enjoyed bowling, softball and golf. Survivors include his wife, Jo Ann, the children and grandchildren. Services in Boone.

       Gary Clyde Finch, 83, Des Moines. Born in Boone. Attended Lincoln Elementary. The family moved to Des Moines. Services in Des Moines.

       Angela Budzinsky, 51, Iowa Falls. A cancer victim. Born in Boone. Parents were Byron Swett (deceased) and Debra (Broadie) Swett. Services in Iowa Falls. 

COMMENTS ON CAITLYN

       All of a sudden, it came to me..........

       I must be the only media person in the world who hasn't commented, in print, on Iowa/Indiana Fever basketball star Caitlyn Clark. It seems everybody else with breath in this world of ours has had SOMETHING to say about her.

       A majority have echoed favorable comments but then, of course, there have been numerous naysayers as well.

       Most of what I write will be favorable. HOWEVER, in fairness, I will be taking the "high road" and discussing a few things that give me an unpleasant feeling.

        I really don't think I can add a thing to what her numerous supporters have been shouting. All the scoring and passing records, the classy way she's responded, sometimes in difficult circumstances, to media scrutiny etc. etc. etc. 

       I'm really a big fan of hers and I'd like to claim she deserves a score of 100 plus BUT......even though she seems to be mistreated in various ways, in game or outside, I don't appreciate the ultimate whining, complaining etc. that, sometimes, our Iowa girl displays. Its all there for everyone, worldwide, to see. Then too, there could be some language issues that need cleaning up as well.

       I, the Kornerman, coached Little League and Babe Ruth baseball for 25 years and I'm not here to say I did everything perfect. We all feel mistreated at various times via various issues but I had a standard rule.......my players were NEVER to disrespect authority, argue with or whine about something they didn't approve of. NEVER. If they had a beef with umpires or anything else, they were to bring it me and I would determine whether it was something I should discuss with the umpire or others involved. 

       I wish it was that way in the WNBA. Instead, it seems there's hardly a time "down the floor" that some player has to go to an official with their complaints. It slows the game down and what can be gained by all this ypping? To me, its way out of control. And yes, there, I'm saying it.....our girl Caitlyn is one of those complainers.

       There's such a simple solution. Why don't these coaches make it clear.........if you have a complaint, come to me and I'll handle it. BUT, if you go on your own after an official in ANY disrespectable way, you will be saddled on the bench or, perhaps, even suspended for a game or two, not just by me but by league officials.

K-----K

       In the last edition, I listed some of the many local events to look forward to in the coming weeks. I also asked for help in listing other things I hadn't mentioned.

       Good old Ann Onymous, a faithful contributor to the Korner, sent a post card with some info on the Thomas the Tank appearances coming to  Boone......September 12-13 and September 18-20. That always draws a big crowd.

K-----K

       Then there's Vern Modeland, BHS-50, another viewer who always finds something to add-on to.

        Regarding our recent story about Lindy's, he wrote, "you said something about ordering pop. Say that back East and they will smile and say, "You must be from Iowa. No one else calls it pop." Also, you didn't mention that we were given a free coke from Lindy's on the way home from school, walking, this is, back in the day upon presenting a report card with an A showing on it."

K-----K

         The Kornerman's question of the day. With all this bombing......night, after night, after night......don't we ever run out of bombs?? Are bombs being made continuously so we never "run out?"

          Just wonderin'. 

 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.......https://kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

 

 

 

        

        

       

        

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Dawn "Sue" Coe Laube, 69, Boone. Born in Boone. Her parents were Larry and Freda (Mayse) Coe. Grand Community HS-74. Married Randy Laube in Boone in 1974. Sue was especially dedicated to her family and was very passionate about all animals, especially her cows and her cat. She enjoyed the outdoors and loved mushroom hunting. Survivors include her husband, Randy, a daughter, Amy Laube, a son, Eugene (Amy K) Laube all of Boone. Two brothers, Steven Coe and John (Kara) Wallace also survive. A COL is planned at Community United Methodist Church.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Judy Kay Brown Jacobson, 67, Fort Dodge. A victim of bone cancer. Born in Boone. BHS-77. Her parents were Maurice and Betty Jane (Payne) Brown. Married Daniel Jacobson in 1977. Judy worked as a Para Educator in the Fort Dodge School District for 18 years prior to retirement in 2024. The couple, Judy and Dan, worked with kids at their church from the day they were married. Judy had a huge heart for the Lord and served in many ways. She enjoyed sewing and cooking. She is survived by her husband, Dan, a son, a daughter and two siblings. Private family interment planned in Boone at a later date.

       Marie C. Sundquist Peterson, 72, Marshalltown/Iowa Veterans Home. Formerly of Boone. Passed away in April, 2026. Born in Boone. BHS-72. Married Darrell Peterson in Boone in 1979. Marie worked at several Boone restaurants and retired after several years as a cook at Westhaven. Has resided in the Iowa Vets Home since 2018. She enjoyed Bingo and winning prizes while there. Darrell died in 2019. Survivors include a sister, Birdie Lee, several nieces and nephews and several in-laws. A graveside service will be held in Adel with a COL later.

       Michael "Mike" David Brogden, 83, Weldon IA. Born in Boone. His parents were Clarence Earl (Smokey) and Mamie Ann (Flockhart) Brogden. Mike grew up in Boone, Fort Dodge and Eldora. Services in Leon.  

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Tom W. Nystrom, 75, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-68. His parents were Wilfred and Irma (Clark) Nystrom. Married Pat Minard in 1983. They divorced. Tom started work as a feed truck driver in 1972 for Tri-County Co-op. He was promoted to location manager at Slater with Alleman Co-op in 1981 and finished his career as North Regional Manager with Heartland Co-op until retirement. Tom enjoyed helping friends at various race tracks and on snowmobile trips. He enjoyed reading, the Iowa Hawkeyes and Minnesota Vikings. Tom fought cancer at Mary Greeley Medical Center and the State University of Iowa Hospital for many years and also spent some recovery time at Hope Lodge in Iowa City. Mark Roberts, who transported Tom to his various appointments, was a special friend. Survivors include a daughter, Jamie (Troy) Tullis, a son, Matt (Jaime) Barrick, and a niece Kimberly Tesdahl, all of Boone. Services in Boone.      

       Marlys Jackson George, 95, Boone/Westhaven. Formerly of Gilmore City. Born in Perry. Palmer HS-48. Married Paul George in Gilmore City in 1950. Was a bookkeeper for the Palmer Coop Creamery. Paul passed in 2011 and Marlys moved closer to her family in Boone. Three children survive, including Ron (Helen) George of Boone. A sister, Marilyn Martin, of Boone also survives. Services in Boone and Gilmore City.

       LaVonne Lois Hartong Hagen, 96, Ogden/Eastern Star. Born in Ida Grove. Sutherland HS-48. Married Paul Otis Hagen in 1954. The family lived in Boone but then moved to Ogden in 1956. In 1958, they moved to their own farm, south of Ogden. Survivors include her son, Steven (Connie) of Ogden, a daughter, Cynthia, and her twin sister, LaDonna. Services in Ogden.

       Jared Alan Pepper, 45, Colo. Born in Boone. His parents are Gerald Pepper, deceased, and Carol Dieffenbach Steinberg. Jared worked in construction as a project manager. He was devoted to his children and always willing to lend a hand. Jared faced struggles throughout his life and wasn't perfect. However, those who truly knew him, also knew his kindness, love for his family and the goodness that existed within him. Survivors include his mother, Carol (Arthur) Steinberg, three children, Connor, Joshua and Allison, and a sister, Addie. A COL will be held in Colo. 

PROVIDING INFORMATION

        I imagine the old Kornerman is dreaming (again) but shouldn't our surrounding community be, at least, a top contender for the best or REAL vacation spot for the state of Iowa this summer.

       The parks and normal attractions......like the Scenic Valley, Mamie Eisenhower home, various golf courses etc. are a "given" but, in addition, we have half-a-dozen events to brag about and/or take part in.

       Get your pen, pencil and pad ready as we recite some things that, unfortunately, will see limited or zero acknowledgement (sad but true) from any media coverage, except from KWBG radio (thanks guys), regarding these events.

       The 34th annual Iowa Band Festival is history. It concluded Saturday.

       But, let's look ahead for advanced planning. Ready? Write these down on your calendar.

       BOONE COUNTY FAIR - July 15-19.

       RAGBRAI IN TOWN - July 21.

       FARM PROGRESS SHOW - September 1-3.

       SUPER NATIONAL RACES - September 7-12.

       PUFFERBILLY DAYS - September 18-20.

       As long as we're at it......Boone's first school day will be July 27. The first Toreador football game is at Jefferson-Scranton, August 28 and the first home game will be vs Greene County on September 4.

      Surely there is something I have failed to include and I apologize for any slights of important dates.

      Add these dates to your calendar now.......later you'll be wondering when.

K-----K

       John Kueck, BHS-61, a faithful Korner follower liked the story on Lindy's. He wrote, "to quote Wiki...Wikipedia indicates that the building was constructed in 1913-14 and "housed a plant for producing and bottling CARBONATED soft drinks, a significant industry in Boone." I remember Lindy's well and especially the orange and grape pop, my favorites. But, they were NOT carbonated. I remember this well, as when our family went on vacation, I would order orange pop, but not drink it, as it was always canbonated and I did not like it. Only Lindy's seemed to be non-carbonated."

K-----K

       A couple things at random......old age or being forgotten are probably the reasons for the changes.

       Starting in my junior high days, the 1950's, someone or some group started calling me Mo rather than Morris. That has stuck with me for seventy years until I've noticed recently..... especially places attended like doctor's office's, restaurants etc. Morris has been much more prevalent and.......

       Don't know about you but as I've grown older, my body temperature has changed. Air conditioning used to be a needed friend. Now, a coat, at least at hand, has been a necessity when being "out." I still enjoy a nice warm day outside but its different when I come into the air conditioned house. 

       Oh well!! Something else to complain about or cry about.

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.......https//kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

 

 

        

 

        

        

          

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Marleen Ann Forsman Moffitt, 90, Boone/Northridge Village, Ames. Born in Sumner. Independence HS. Teaching degree from Luther College. Taught in Minnesota and at Franklin Elementary in Boone. Married Stan Moffitt in New Hampton in 1958. Marleen's greatest joy was her family and the time spent with them at home, in Clear Lake and traveling the world. She was a member of the Boone NO chapter of P.E.O., the Salvation Army Advisory Board, Ericson Public Library Board, Youth and Shelter Services Board and taught preschool age Sunday School for many years. Survivors include her husband, Stan, BHS-52, of Ames, formerly of Boone, and Boone residents, a daughter, Mary, BHS-79, (Bruce) Anderson and a son, Chris, BHS-83, (Krista) Moffitt. A sister also survives. Services in Boone.      

        Kathryn Lynn (Kathy) Anderson Larson, 72, Norwalk. Stratford HS-71. Boone DMACC  in paralegal studies. Survivors include a daughter, Amy, a son, Brian, and a sister, Betty Swanson.  Services in Stratford.      

        Debra Sharp Ray, 68, Boone. Born in Missouri. Married Tom Ray in 2007. She was a caregiver at the Woodward Resource Center. Lived a life defined by her heart of gold, moving through the world with a gentle kindness that left everyone better than they were before. She had an unwavering faith in God and her deepest joy was her family. Survivors include her husband, Tom, her mother, Sharon Sharp, her brother, Mike, her three children, Corey, Cody and Jessica Gifford, and her best friend, Pam McLey. Service in Boone.

        Rita Ann Clemons, 59, Ames. Survivors include a sister, Alice (Glen Bobzien) Kenny, stepfather, Dale Howe, step-brother, Patton (Terri) Howe all of Boone. A COL later. 

A GOOD FRIEND, LOST

       Please, excuse me.

       I'm going to be fudgin' slightly today.

       As regular Korner viewers know, obituaries are an important part of our service but restrictions are required. We scan a large Central Iowa area for information and anytime we see ANY connection to Boone, Ogden and Madrid, plus any other immediate areas in our "circle" we include that.

        Today is an exception. 

        A very good friend has died. Don Allen Uker of Denison passed on Monday. He does not fit our normal obituary criteria, However, he does leave a host of statewide friends, including several from the Boone area.

         A few months past, Don hosted a get together of good friends in Denison and Jo and I attended. In addition, Boone residents, the Wulkow's, Rick and Barb, and the Anderson's, Dave and Sandy, were there. 

         Also in attendance was Father Craig Collison, BSH-70, of Carroll and many other friends of "Uke" from various areas of the state.

         You may have noted a connection there. Yes, it was the Iowa High School Athletic Association that resulted in this alliance. Specifically, the Iowa Boys State High School Basketball Tournament.

          Rick Wulkow, Dave Anderson and I, as well as Father Craig and Uker, shared many years working, on behalf of the Association, during numerous state tournaments.

          While I was assigned the task of "mike duty," honoring teams and individuals, "Uke" and Father Craig were the Public Address announcers for all the games, for thirty years or more.

          Don Uker and I have weaved a rather similar path during our lifetimes. Don was a long time radio man at KDSN in Denison, eventually becoming the station owner. "Uke" and I, at KWBG in Boone, both aired hundreds, if not thousands of high school athletic events, play-by-play or event-by-event.

           Don was born in September of 1934 and I was born in March of 1935, both 91 years of age but Don, about half a year older.....and much smarter and more wise.

           That's probably where any similarity ends. Don authored some books, including, "Don Uker's Joke Book." And yes, he was quite the banquet speaker and story teller, true or untrue and naughty or nice. 

          Older folks will remember Donna Reed, a Denison girl who starred, with Jimmy Stewart, in that long time favorite holiday movie, "It's A Wonderful World,"  as well as "From Here to Eternity" and the Donna Reed TV show. "Uke" was a prime motivator for establishment of the Donna Reed Festival, which was held annually in Denison for many years and provided the impetus for the Donna Reed Foundation for the Performing Arts which provided scholarships for potential artists.

           With Don's presence, laughter and hilarity was always expected.......but despite various problems of  age related health issues, he refused to bend until now. His numerous good friends and admirers in Iowa are left, simply with sadness but also great memories of his many years of wonderful companionship.

           Don was preceded in death by his wife, Constance, and a son, Kevin. Survivors include his partner, Phyliss Harms, two daughters and a sister. Service information is pending. 

          

          

          

           

           

          

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Steve Jay, 72, Boone. Born in Ames. His parents were Wayne and Millie (Cox) Jay. Steve and his wife, Theresa, lived in Arizona and Western Colorado, spending time camping, fishing and hiking. Steve had an adventurous heart and loved being a dad. He worked as a concrete finisher for many years and in 1993, started work with the Chicago and Northwestern and Union Pacific Railroads as a locomotive engineer until retirement. Survivors include his children,  Molly Jay of Boone and Alison Jay, his ex-wife and friend, Theresa Jay of Boone, two brothers, including David (Gloria) Jay of Boone and two sisters, including Jamie Jay Blomgren, BHS-66, of Ankeny, formerly of Boone. A private graveside service will be held.

       Karen Rhea Peterson, 88, Ogden. Born in Boone. BSH-55. Married Julene Peterson in Ogden in 1959. Karen worked for the U.S. Post Office as a rural route carrier in the Ogden area for 25 years. She enjoyed volunteering at the Scenic Valley gift shop, playing bridge, camping, going for long car rides, eating out with the girls and going to casinos. She was very support of the activities of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Julene passed in 2011. Survivors include daughters, Lori (Dennis) Good and Lisa Peterson, plus many other family members and friends. Services in Ogden.

       Robert "Bob" Allen Phillips, 88, Boone/Westhaven. Born in Des Moines. Grew up in Birmingham, IA and graduated in 1956. Joined the Navy in 1957, studying electronics. Bob married Beverly Ann Kracht in Birmingham in 1958. He was honorably discharged from service in 1964 and the family moved back to their hometown where he worked for a farmer and in an electronics factory. In 1966, the couple chose to return to military life and Bob joined the Air Force. His service then included work in Oklahoma, Thailand, California, New Hampshire, Mississippi and New Mexico. In Thailand, he flew 105 missions over North Vietnam as a radio controller. The family eventually moved to Boone so Bob could be an Air Force Recruiter in Ames. In 1979, he was honorably discharged after 20 years in the military. In Boone, the couple opened Phillips Office Supply but he concluded his work years in property maintenance for a housing development in Ames and as the Life Line program manager for the Home Care Division of the Boone County Hospital. Survivors include his wife, Beverly of Boone, a daughter, brother and two sisters. A COL will be held later.

 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Tommy (Tom) Maurice Kendall, 77, Boone. Passed after a long battle with cancer and its lasting effects.Born in Jefferson and grew up on a farm in that area. Earned a B.S. degree in Industrial Education from Iowa State University. Married Phyliss Magner in Mason City in 1971. Iowa National Guard vet. Tom spent his entire 45-year career working for Skarshaug Testing Laboratories in Ames where he served as Production Manager until retirement in 2014. A faithful church attendee, he taught Sunday School for many years. He enjoyed woodworking, square dancing and making home and yard improvements. Survivors include his wife, Phyliss, two sons and two brothers. Services in Boone and Sheffield.

        Dennis Lee Hughes. 77, Decatur County IA. A lifelong farmer, he dedicated his life to the land that he loved. In later years, he was a truck driver. Dennis was happiest when he was outdoors, hunting, fishing, looking for arrowheads, target shooting and taking his grandkids for a tractor ride. He loved sharing these single moments, never lingered indoors or sit still for long. Four children survive, including Heidi (Rusty) Hicks of Boone. Two sisters also survive.

       Mary Joanne Standley Roberts, 95, West Branch.  Born in Boone. BHS-49. Boone Junior College. Iowa State Teacher's College (now UNI) Active in Toreador band and drum and bugle corps. Taught kindergarten at Aplington and in 1954, married Leonard Roberts when he was on military leave. The couple taught in Cedar Rapids, Hudson, Jewell, Maquoketa as well as Lombard and Bloomington, IL. Jo had an infectious laughter and claimed she seized every chance to laugh that life presented. Leonard passed in 2017. Four children survive. Services in Kalona.

         Ronald B. Bell, 87, Clinton. Born in Boone. Army vet. After Korean War service, he started  five years of work with the railroad and married Kathleen Scanlan. In 1963, became a salesman for a Clinton firm for the next 35 years. After retirement, worked five more years for a plumbing company. Ron's wife, Kathleen, and four children survive. Services in Fulton and Clinton. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Joseph A. Shadle, 79, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Ogden. Married Jane Williams in Zearing in 1978. She passed in 1997. The couple made their home in Boone. Joe worked for the Department of Transportation for 42 years. He was a fan of racing, NASCAR, Formula One, drag and boat. He also enjoyed attending car, gun, art and craft shows. Attending flea markets, thrift stores and garage sales, he collected a bit of everything. Joe was also a good photographer/videographer. Survivors include a daughter, Bethany (Chris Dudney) Shadle of Boone, and a son, Kyle. A COL and graveside will take place in Boone and Cambridge.    

        Rex Davis, 99, Harlan/Elm Crest Senior Living. Born in Boone. Council Bluffs Thomas Jefferson HS. Marine vet. Service in Avoca.

       Arlene Jane  Chally, 86, Stratford. Born in Webster City. Her parents were Sidney L.Q. Westrum and Geraldine Edna Speck. Grew up on a farm east of Stratford. Attended Iowa State University and was an avid Cyclone fan.. Married Jerold Lee Chally, who is a big Hawkeye fan, in 1962. The couple spent their lives farming. A homemaker, Arlene also worked at ISU in the Employee Benefits Office for 15 years before retirement. She was a talented seamstress and baker with quilts and delicious apple pies being her passion. Arlene was also a talented singer and skilled pianist. Survivors include her husband, Jerold, three children, including Bill (Dawn) Chally of Sratford. A private graveside service is planned.

       Terry Roy "Chief" Fitz Randolph. Ranier, MN. Spent time living in Stratford. Services in International Falls and Guthrie Center.

THEY REMEMBER, THEY SPEAK

        This is great.

        Some fellow oldtimers showing a little love for, a bit of respect to their past.

        A couple of recent Korner columns "woke them up" a bit, got them thinkin' about some things and, to add more meat to the plaudits, they're coming from a pair just a slight bit older than the Kornerman, 
BHS-53, That's important.....that doesn't happen too often anymore.

        Old buddy Stanley Moffitt, BHS-52, called with a reply to the Kornerman about substitutes, a role he said he was well versed in.

        Oh yes, I remember those Toreador football teams of yore when, as substitutes, we were all vying for playing time.

        Stan said that he and his buddy, Bob Sunstrom, a pair of lineman, wanted to show their "stuff" but "it didn't happen often enough." "I was always so jealous of those guys who got into the games and it showed, uniforms stained and sweaty." "Meantime, my uniform was as clean and neat  as it could be," he chuckled.

        Actually, Stan was just happy to "be there." He had tried the cornet but said that he and the instrument didn't get along well. "Finally, when I was a sophomore, Don Green, the BHS band director, suggested that I give football a try......and I did."

        As time has passed, there have been many opportunities to shine by simply being a good teammate, in school and beyond, and Stanley has not only been a great leader of the Boone business community, he has served over 50 years as a Board Member of the S.L. Moore Foundation and as the Boone representative on the Des Moines YMCA Camp board located northwest of town. He's also President of the BHS class of '52 but admits meeting attendance is dwindling.

        Stan mentioned his admiration for the "Y" spokesperson, Ray Pugh, who many Booneites recall as one of the best motivational speakers ever. He rambled about various other Toreador athletic teams and their achievements including  great fan and cheerleader support from Doris Krug, Sue Sovereign and many others.

        Like many of the rest of us, the voice isn't as strong and various devices are used for getting around but the will and spirit are still very much "alive" and it was wonderful to hear that a Korner column actually encouraged him to "speak out" and relive some fun moments of a wonderful 90 plus years.

K-----K

        Then there's Vern Modeland, BHS-50.

        A faithful Korner participant, he enjoyed our recent column about the Boone/Ames connection.

        He wrote, "I couldn't agree more with your observation as Boone becomes the bedroom and perceived scenic escape route to college town over east of you and creeping. I remember at about 13, riding my bicycle over to Ames on a personal adventure "just cause I could." Fifteen miles on the two paved lanes of the Lincoln Highway, where I probably didn't encounter a half dozen cars as I pedaled along parallel to the railroad and up next to one of those curbings that marked the cement limit. Society was mostly corn and cows. When I got home, my mother just asked casually, "where have you been?" I said, "Riding my bike." No worry about dangerous traffic or being attacked or much else other than how painful my seat got. It was a kinder and gentler world. Thank you Boone for letting me grow up in it."

K-----K

        Tom Peterson, BHS-67, enjoyed the column about Lindy's and added, "strawberry flavor was my favorite, especially with vanilla ice cream."

K-----K

         Loren Frazier, BHS-58, sent these.....quotations.

         Prince Philip - When a man opens a car door for his wife, it's either a new car or a new wife; Arnold Schwarzenegger - Having more money doesn't make you happier. I have 50 million dollars but I was just as happy as when I had 48 million; Johnny Carson - If life were fair, Elvis would still be alive today and all those impersonators would be dead; John Glenn - As I hurtled through space, one thought kept crossing my mind. Every part of this rocket was supplied by the lowest bidder; Howard Hughes - I'm not a paranoid, deranged millionaire. Actually, I'm a billionaire; David Letterman - America is the only country where a significant portion of the population believes professional wrestling is real but the moon landing was fake.

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.......https://kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

          

 

        

         

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

         Robert Donald Rinehart, 83, Ames. Formerly of Boone. Victim of a tragic accident. While walking, Robert was  hit by a car in Ames and succumbed of his injuries at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. Born in Boone. BHS-61.Bob married Theresa Lowry in Grand Junction in 1965. They divorced. He earned degrees from Southwest Missouri State University and a Masters in Education from  the University of Northern Iowa. Taught high school accounting in Wisconsin for 20 years. He was also an over-the-road truck driver. After retiring from trucking, he worked at Boone Hy-Vee as a floral and pharmacy delivery driver. He enjoyed camping, fishing and going to casino's. Survivors include his three children, Mark, Jennifer and Nick as well as siblings Jolene Martin, Joanne Coy, Jackie Rinehart and Marty (Gayle)  Rinehart. No service is in plan at this time.  

        LATE INFORMATION: Dixie Lee Howard Knight, 81, Palm Beach Garden, FL. passed away May 2, 2026 after  a long battle with dementia. Born in Iowa. Was the fifth of 10 children. BHS-62. At age 19, married Dean Knight. Dixie was a devoted wife and mother who enjoyed domestic travel. When Dean's work took him away from home, she loved homeschooling daughter Jessica so they could travel along with him and see more of the U.S. Her pride and joy were her grandchildren. She enjoyed making pancakes for Ivan on weekends before his baseball games and she never missed any of Bella's musicals or ice skating competitions. Dixie and Dean had four children, Jennifer, Jason and Jerrica and, Chantelle, who passed away in 1964. Services in Boone, July 11, with a graveside service and luncheon.

       Arlene J. Chally, 86, Stratford. A graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery. 

       Julie Renee Nelson Howard, 63, Ogden. Born in Boone. BHS-82. Her parents, now deceased, were Larry D. and Karen (Bass) Nelson. Worked at the former Tic Toc Restaurant and then for many years at Thermomass (Leviat) in Boone until retiring due to failing health.She married Alan Howard in Boone in 1988. Julie loved cooking and baking. Her family especially enjoyed her ham balls and cheesy potatoes. Survivors include her husband, Alan, two sons, Christopher and Matthew Howard all of Ogden, her two daughters, including Lindsay (Dustin Hanson) Howard of Logansport and a sister, Lorie (Larry) Ealy of Boone. Services in Ogden and Boone.

       Darci Lynne Shell Munford, 59, Des Moines. Death due to a long battle with breast cancer. Born in Boone to Leland and Alma Calhoon Shell. Grew up in Madrid. Very academic and involved in band, sports and 4-H. Was class valedictorian. Baptized in Boone at Trinity and confirmed at St. John's in Madrid. Earned a degree from Iowa State in Family Resource Management. After marriage and a move to southeast Iowa, she became a tax preparer, a rural mail carrier and sold vegetables from her garden. She also had a long career in finance, beginning as a teller at the Madrid branch of Commercial Federal Bank. She retired as an Assistant Vice President and Private Banker for Morgan Stanley. Darci loved road trips, hiking, camping, kayaking and spending time outdoors. Three daughters, her mother and two sisters survive. Services in Madrid. 

JUST NOT THE SAME

       I'm so sorry.......but I don't like it.

       Maybe I'm in a whiney stage but, in most cases, I declare I simply don't like most substitutes.

       There, I've said it and I'm glad.

        BUT WAIT.......just like you and you and you, I, myself, have been a substitute. Whether it was on my eighth grade basketball team, becoming chairman of the Boone County United Way board or replacing two of the best speakers this state has ever known, I, was a substitute, a replacement.

         Oh goodie, I've been looking for a way to use that word, oxymoron, sometime and this must be it. 

        There were various other sports teams along the way that forced me to "wait my turn." Then, one year when the REAL United Way head man's illness forced a change, being number two, I was the "next in line."  Most notable of all, I guess, were two different times when it was my obligation to fill in for two of Iowa's most renowned speakers......my old boss Bernie Saggau and the revered Jim Duncan, best known for his brilliance as the Drake Relays announcer. I know, filling in for greatness, isn't always easy but is oftentimes required.

         BREAKING NEWS......has anyone noticed Iowa's Caitlyn Clark has been in the news lately?? Oh my gosh. What has happened to important stuff like high gas prices or the attacks on ICE and that war thing involving Iran? All have been overshadowed by an Iowa girl's inherited throat problem.

         Back to my original thought. Here's the gist of my complaint. It really bothers me to have five days (usually) of good television news, sports and weather reporting, followed by a weekend or holiday of ...........substitutes. Its just not the same and I realize we all need a break on occasion. While we're at it, how about the times when the "normal" TV schedule is turned upside down by some replacement brouhaha.

         But, there's more. Blue Bunny has discontinued one of my favorite ice cream flavors, butter brickle and I can't find a good enough substitute. Then there's Boyd's malts, the Eighth Street coneys and the Lincoln Restaurant's fried chicken. They can never be adequately replaced. Good luck finding an equal substitute. Surely some number "2s" are lurking and hoping,.

         The other day, at a local establishment, I was waited on by a young man wearing a very colorful shirt with four-inch high "DORS" staring at me. Yup.....a poor replacement for the much more classy Toreadors. I tried, but it was hard to ignore. I love my town and my school and all its teams but I still don't care for this particular "substitute."

          Finally there's this.........a feeling of great sadness for Jeri Ann Ritter, WHO-TV, and Janice Dean, Fox News. Both are television meteorologists and both have been diagnosed with similar life-altering illnesses, Jeri Ann with ALS and Janice with MS. The illnesses have forced early retirements for both, who have served their constituents for 20 years plus. Numerous replacements are  there to choose from and some will be very good I'm sure, but that special "something" will be missing.

         C'mon now, admit it. Surely I'm not the only one. We've all seen "both sides".....there's that oxymoron thing again..... and have our varied opinions about these "things."

         Come to think of it......maybe this one-time substitute, the old Kornerman, can thank my lucky stars for the many opportunities I've been given in my lifetime to reach for better and higher opportunities. I'm extremely thankful.

K-----K

        Worldwide Korner headquarters are still 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......https://kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

 

          

 

          

 

 

          

         

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Pamela Frances Hike O' Tool Leytham, 82, Boone. Formerly of Woodbine. Born in Carroll. Married Melvin O'Tool and they divorced. Married Kenny Leytham  in 1991. Patricia worked for State Farm for 18 years, both in Woodbine and Boone. In Woodbine, she was a librarian for the children's library for eight years. Patricia enjoyed quilting, making all occasion cards and scrapbooking. She was a member of the Good Agers Club at Trinity Lutheran Church, belonged to the Red Hat Society and sang with the Sweet Adelines. Three children survive, Shawn (Raylene) O'Tool and Joey O'Tool of Boone and Michelle (Jerry) Hanson of Dayton. Other survivors include a daughter-in-law, Devon O'Tool, of Boone and a sister, Marilyn (Larry) Jordan of Ogden. Services in Boone and Glidden.     

         Mary Keenan Pohlner, 65, Boone. A cancer victim. Born in Boone the daughter of Joseph and Nellie (Clark) Keenan. Grew up on the family farm near Ogden. OHS-79. Married Robert Pohlner in Boone in 1979. The couple lived in Ogden for 20 years before moving in 2001 to a newly built home outside of town. Mary spent over 20 years working for Principal Financial Group in Ames. In 2012, she joined Mary Greeley Medical Center and continued work there until her passing. She enjoyed decorating her home, crafting, sewing and shopping for the perfect purse. She always prepared more food than anyone could eat and nothing brought her greater joy than being "Nana," watching all of her grandchildren's activities. Her husband, Robert, of Boone survives. A daughter and two brothers also survive. Services in Boone. 

       Marvin Steele, 87, Payson, AZ. Born in Boone.

       James Addems Norman, 80, Windsor Heights D.M. Family requested donations to Camp Hantesa, Boone. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Teresa "Teri"  Lorraine Atkinson Alitz, 76, Chariton. Born an Army Brat in Oklahoma. Her parents were Glenn and Sharon Atkinson. BHS-67. Joined the U.S. Marine Corps. Married Tim Alitz. The couple moved to various states and built a cabin at Lake Rathbun in Iowa in 1989. She had a passion for decorating and usually worked Service jobs. The couple lost a son, Ted, in 2007 and Teri has had to deal with roller coaster cancer for the last five years. Survivors include her husband, Tim, and a daughter, Christina Jensen. Services in Chariton and Melrose.

       Sean Michael Thompson, 58, Johnson. Formerly of Ogden. A lung cancer victim. Born in Iowa City. Survivors include his wife, Heidi, of Johnston, two sons, his parents, Elvin and Patti Thompson of Jefferson, six siblings and his mother-in-law. Services in Jefferson. 

       Arland C. "Van" "Screwdriver" Van Schuyver, 85, LaBelle, FL. Formerly of Boone and Ogden. Born in Oklahoma. Army vet. Married Beverly Madden in 1963. The couple enjoyed camping at Don Williams, fishing and boating. Arland served as a police officer and for some time was the Police Chief at Dallas Center. He worked at AgServe in Ogden until retirement. Van loved woodworking, tinkering, watching old Westerns and the Chicago Cubs. Beverly died in 2025. Survivors include three children, Marty Van Schuyver, Lonnie (Doll) Van Schuvyer and Lenneica (John) Stewart. Services in Boone and Mackey.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Neill Robert Stark, 50, Pilot Mound. Born in New Jersey. He passed away unexpectedly. His parents are Joyce (Hochberg) Farley, who survives, and his father, Robert Stark, who is deseased. Neill grew up in North Carolina but was a high school graduate of Sullivan County HS in 1993 in Pennsylvania. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1996 and had a distinquished 17 year career at a Naval sub base in Georgia. Following medical retirement in 2013, Neill continued his committment to civilian service. He met Shannon Zinnel in 2021 and they were married in Washington D.C. in 2024. Neill loved playing cards and board games and was a season ticket holder of the NFL Philadelphia Eagles. Survivors include his wife, Shannon, of Pilot Mound, his mother, a stepdaughter and two sisters. Services in Boone and Pennsylvania with his final resting place eventually being a Burial at Sea.       

        Mary Pohlner, 65, Boone. Services in Boone.      

        Thomas James York, 79, Ogden. Died in Ogden. Born in Boone. Army and Army Reserve vet. Had a long career as a conductor for the Union Pacific Railroad until retirement. Married Vicki Morgan in 1971. An excellent cook, Thomas loving fishing, road trips, playing cards and music. He also loved cheering on his sons at the Boone Speedway. Survivors include his wife, Vicki, his children, Angie (Dan) Dill, Jason (Wendy) York and Ryan (Holly) York, his brother Donald York and sister Susan (Richard) Rounds.  Services in Boone.      

         Larry E. Sampson, 77, Roland/State Center Specialty Care. Service in Boone. Burial in Bass Point Cemetery.

        Tristan Kyle Nelson, 37, Ames. Survivors include a sister, Sunni Nelson (Travis Friedel) of Madrid. 

         Joseph "Joe" Kerin Schneider, 82, Bedford, TX. Survivors include his wife, Catherine Sturies Schneider, a son and two daughters. Services in Hurst, TX. Private family graveside service at Glenwood Cemetery in Ogden. 

ETC......AND MORE

       Let's begin with a little Boone business history.

       In my most recent internet searchings, I discovered something that piqued my interest. It was a picture of a bottle cap. On top it said, "Its a Lindy's beverage grape AND the outline of an airplane was also evident. The ring around the cap said, "Boone, Iowa."

        I found out later that airplane sighting on a bottle cap was actually a tribute to famous aviator Charles Lindbergh who, on May 20-21, 1927, made the first solo nonstop transatlantic flight from New York to Paris in a plane named the Spirit of St. Louis  The flight covered 3,600 miles in some 33 hours.

        That flight made Lindbergh a very well known and one of the most famous worldwide figures of that day. 

        From the time the Kelley family moved to Boone in the late 1940's until today, the Linderblood family has been well known. The family tree included Boysell, BHS-1910; Frank, BHS-38; John, BHS-49; Susan, BHS-68; Sally, BHS-71; another Boysell, BHS-73, Mike, BHS-74, Tom, BHS-75 and various others.

       We'll concentrate on Frank who passed away at 68 in 1988. It was Frank who operated the Coca Cola bottling company with his father from 1945 to 1972, the time period that Lindy's soft drinks became a Boone institution.

       I clearly remember watching those drinks being manufactured in the building on the south side of Sixth Street, between Story and Boone streets, across the alley, west from the Police Station. Right across the street from the proposed Boone Veterans Center.

       Watching the conveyer belts moving the bottles to their proper place was interesting......but then, the drink itself.....a sweet grape and orange flavored I remember and their might have been even more flavors that I've forgotten.

        It hasn't been too long ago that I've seen some of those long, slender, empty Lindy's bottles. There are, no doubt, some around and I see on ebay, they're priced at $95 or more. I've been checking our basement,  attic and all the neighbors garage sales but......no luck.

        I wasn't as familiar with it but Wikipedia tells about the Stoll Bottling Works building which still stands at 824 Allen Street, just north of the Fire Department. 

        Wikipedia indicates that building was constructed in 1913-14 and "housed a plant for producing and bottling carbonated soft drinks, a significant industry in Boone."

        It states that Frank Linderblood bought that company and moved Stoll to Des Moines where he owned Capital City Bottling Works. By the mid-20th century the national brands had plants in Boone and the Boone Stoll Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. 

       I clearly remember how much I loved that Lindy's grape........so sweet. 

K-----K

       Recent times there have been discussions about the size of basketballs used in the WNBA.

       Yes, the basketball used in the WNBA IS smaller than the one used in the NBA. The women's league ball is 28.5 inches in circumference compared to the 29.5 inch ball used by the men.

       Some rules making body decided that, because on average, women have smaller hands than men, a smaller ball was required. It was also stated that the women's game often emphasizes quicker ball movement and perimeter shooting. Thus, a slightly smaller ball can facilitate this fast-paced, finesse-oriented style of play. AND, it was determined that a heavier or larger ball could cause strain or fatigue for some female players. It was finally decided that the lighter weight and smaller size of the WNBA ball can help optimize player comfort and performance.

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 a story/memories/comments/death notices......https:/kelleyskorner1@blogspot.

 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Richard Lee Stearns, 82, Boone. Born in Estherville. EHS-62. Attended Estherville Junior College. Married Gloria Walker in Estherville in 1963. Started part time work with Fareway at age 15, worked his way up to Assistant Manager and moved on to Marshalltown, Cherokee and Manchester. In 1981, was moved to the Boone Corporate Office and retired in 2010 as Senior V.P. of Merchandising. Known for his hard work ethic, he loved his work, especially with the vendors he met. He could fix anything and after retiring from Fareway, he worked at Vision Bank as a Courier and their "fix-it man." Rich and Gloria enjoyed many winters in the Palm Springs, California area and summers at Okoboji. Survivors include his wife, Gloria, son Jeff (Connie) Stearns, a daughters Julia Stearns and Jill (Shane) Peterson. Services in Boone.

       Mary Lou Carpenter Rasmusson, 89, Nevada/Story County Senior Care. Born in Boone. BHS-54. Married Harlan Deloss Rasmusson in Nevada in 1954. Mary Lou worked at Boone Dairy before a long career at Donnelly Marketing in Nevada. She retired in 1999. She had a creative heart and gifted hands, and enjoyed sewing and quilting. She loved puzzles, color-by-number projects and all kinds of crafts. Mary Lou is survived by a niece and two nephews. Services in Nevada. Burial at Oakwood cemetery near Moingona.   

       Larry Dean Pender, 82, Granger. Victim of Parkinson's. Survivors include a sister, Mary (Duane) of Madrid. Services in Adel. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       
       Madison Marie Neely, 7, Boone. Born in Boone. Attended Ledges Elementary. Madison was diagnosed with Diffuse High Grade Glioma brain cancer at six. She enjoyed family time, driving through the Ledges State Park, doing puzzles, playing games on an I-Pad, watching Bluey and the movie, descendants. She loved mac-n-cheese, French fries with ranch dressing and American cheese slices. Her favorite color was rainbow. Survivors include her father, Justin Neely and sister Olivia Neely of Boone, grandparents Tim and Berniece Licata of Boone, grandfather Kevin Neely of Boone and aunt, Sarah (Chris) Turbes of Pilot Mound. Services in Boone.       

       Richard Lee Stearns, 82, Boone. Services in Boone.       

       Debbie Jean Dennis Doran, 70, Boone. Passed away unexpectedly. Born in Fort Dodge. BHS-74. Married Rich Gustafson and they divorced. Married Gregg Elsberry. In 2012, married Daniel Montgomery Doran. She worked at the Boone Movie Theatre, Fareway, provided in-home daycare, Gates, Members 1st Community Credit Union and Vison Bank. Retired in 2020. Debbie loved unconditionally and found joy in the simple things, gardening, crafting, a good book and she and Dan met new friends as they traveled the world. Her patience and kindness were unmatched and above all, she cherished her family. Survivors include her husband, Daniel, her mother, Loretta Bass, both of Boone, several siblings, including Wes (Jennifer) Bass and Rick Dennis of Boone, and daughters, including Tonya (Kelly) Lyons and Courtney Rose (Kelly Tapper) of Boone and Lexus (Damian) Davidson of Ogden. Services in Boone. 

       JoAnn Grasso Hicks, 85, Boone/Westhaven. Born in Stanhope. BHS-60. Boone Junior College. JoAnn was married to Richard Hicks for 20 years. She helped run the family business, the Daniel Boone Sports Shop. She was a 4-Her in her younger years and was crafty and artistic. She loved attending events at the Beckwith Center. Four children survive as do her brother, Gary Grasso of Boone, a niece and a nephew. Services in Boone. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       James Marvin Wilhite, 79, Boone. Born in Mason City. MCHS. Attended drafting school. Married Helen (Trask) Wilhite in Mason City in 1965. James drove a Fareway truck for many years prior to retirement in 2019. Before Fareway, he had worked for Star Equipment, Woodford Wheeler, Hansen Steel, a drafting company and a concrete company. He loved snowmobiling, fishing, gardening, canning, grilling, cooking, working on cars and, in his younger years,  racing them. Jim was a Little League Board Member and was happy helping his friends build, whether it was homes or garages. A daughter, Tori Wilhite, of Boone survives as do a sister and brother.        

        Annette Rae Olson Kelley, 84, Grinnell, formerly of Boone. Born in Sioux Rapids. SRHS. Earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Buena Vista and later, a Master's Degree in Education from the State University of Iowa. Married John Roy Kelley in Sioux Rapids in 1966. The couple lived in Virginia before returning to Iowa. Annette dedicated her professional life to education. She taught in the Sibley, Sioux Rapids and Boone school districts, retiring in 2000 after 32 years of teaching. A Sunday school teacher and Little League softball coach, she loved the outdoors. She also enjoyed playing gin, cheering for the football Hawkeyes and Minnesota Vikings. John died in 2014 and Annette is survived by a son and a daughter. Graveside service near Sioux Rapids.     

         Connie "Connie Sue" Lande Hopkins, 78, Ames. Madrid HS. Was a homemaker. In 1972, met Russell Houser and he survives, as do grandchildren and nieces. Connie found joy in life's simple pleasures. Was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and enjoyed puzzles. Cremation rites have been accorded.

WHO KNOWS THE FUTURE?

       An exciting time. 

       When you're staring at 92 and something positive occurs that limits your lounge time or those dreaded TV reruns, yes....you do get a special "rush" that something different and better may be occurring.

       For several coming months now, in the 900 block of South Jackson, we'll have something to study and criticise and the ability to exercise our personal opinion of the proceedings.

       A new house is being built across the street, at almost arms length. I know we'll appreciate any blockage of snow or wind next winter but we'll also miss the beautiful view of the golf course the other times of year. We couldn't have it both ways could we?

       We met the occupying couple, who are coming from the Ames/Nevada area the other day and the lady of the house made comment, "the view is what sold us," while the male was especially impressed with the "wonderful meal we had" at one of our local restaurants.

       That type of adoration for this community I've lived in and promoted for 80 years was, of course, music to my ears BUT my moment became giddy when they added, "Ames is just too big and that daily South Duff fight is too much."

       Those comments added to my recent thought that, perhaps, they're a sign of new times, that a reversal may, slowly, be underway.

       The 2020 census showed that Ames had a population of 66,427 and was the ninth most populous city in Iowa. Good for them.....and we appreciate the many good and varied  opportuities they present from just 15 miles away. P.S. almost half of that 66 plus are students at ISU.

       But then, I remember, my dad, Clint, an Ames High graduate of 1929, telling me that he delivered papers to a portion of the 10,000 residents, 10,261 to be exact. 

      In that 2020 census, Boone was credited with 12,460, a handful more than the 11,886 of 1930. I'm inclined to think its more than that today.

      Look, I don't expect Boone to EVER romp to 60,000 residents or even 50 or 40,000 or much less AND Ames will, no doubt, continue to grow even more as time passes.

     But to me, it is interesting to dream of any kind of substantial population increase in Boone's future with, perhaps, the addition of some of those Ames folks or others who have "had it" with the large city "feel" in comparison to our much slower but pleasant "laid back" Boone existence.

     Just wonderin'.  

        

        

 

          

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

     Neill Stark, 50, Pilot Mound.       

     Judy Loehrer, 83, Ames. Born in Boone. BSH-61. Earned an Associates of Arts degree from Boone Junior College. Her parents were Lawrence and Maxine (Dickerson) Loehrer. Judy was a long time employee of Principal Park Financial. She was an avid Iowa State Cyclone fan and deeply devoted to her family, especially her nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Survivors include a brother, Mike (Ann) Loehrer of  Dublin, Ohio and a sister, Kathy Lassen of Bluffton, South Carolina as well as several nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass will be held, June 19, at Boone Sacred Heart and inurnment will take place at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

       Harriet Marie Sharnweber Sprouse, 93, Camas, Washington. Born in Boone. 

       Eugene "Gene" Francis Mitchell, 79, Cherokee/Accura Health. Born near Winterset. United Community HS-65. His parents were Dale Leroy Sr. and Francis (Diehl) Mitchell. Army vet. Was an auto mechanic for John Deere in Ankeny. Then, in Denison, he worked for Peterson Manufacturing selling and installing livestock waterers. Eventually, he became an insurance agent. Gene enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and bowhunting especially. He also had a passion for wildlife photography and loved muscle cars. His main hobby was being a Ham radio operator and gaining friends all over the world. Survivors include three children, a brother, David (Cherylin) Mitchell, nephews Tim (Lori) and Jake Mitchell and a niece Kristin Mitchell all of Boone. Services have been held in Denison. 

SCHOOL SIZE DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE

       If you happened to read the recent Korner story, "Boone Man "Saves" the IHSAA", you may have noticed that some 80 years ago, at the organization's beginning, mention is made of  1300 or so schools in Iowa that claimed earliest membership in the Iowa High School Athletic Association.

        My, my, times do change and a look at current IHSAA membership, in comparison, shows, in graphic detail, how much Iowa's educational platform has changed through the years. 

        The very latest membership figures show that today there are not 1300 members, not close at all. These days, there are  just 363 total members, thanks or no thanks to school consolidation. However, only 286 of the 363 have 100 students or more in their senior grades.

        Those last 100 include the final two, Diagonal and North Iowa Christian of Mason City, with just 20 students each. 

        Its that wide disparity in numbers, 1 to 363, that result in the IHSAA dividing its membership into classes,......5A, 4A etc...... in various state tournament offerings, an effort to "even out the field"....making the competition more fair, more realistic.

        Yes, admittedly, the excitement of the "little guy" upsetting his much bigger opponent was thrilling..... Dunkerton stopped Des Moines Roosevelt, 22-20, to win the state basketball championship in 1933 and in '37, it was Melrose topping Marshalltown, 35-17. However, those instances were few and far between and today, such outrageous results would be even more limited, if not completely impossible.

        We'll dazzle you a bit now with some current figures you may find interesting.

        Here are the enrollment figures of the "top ten" largest schools in Iowa .......and, perhaps, surprisingly, nine of the ten are in the Des Moines metro area. 

        Number one has made that claim for many years.....and it isn't close......West Des Moines Valley with 2,236 students. Johnston is second at 1,796, 440 fewer students, and that brings up some "talk" that is always mentioned but never seems to completely end.

        The skeptics say, "with that much of an advantage, that many more potential athletes to choose from, they (Valley) should win every championship, every year. Or, why doesn't the Valley district split into two or more schools, like Waukee or Ankeny have?" That, of course, is a local decision.

        Here's the remainder of the Top Ten. Southeast Polk, 1,757; Linn-Mar, Marion, 1,692; Des Moines Lincoln, 1,692; Waukee Northwest, 1,599; Ankeny Centennial, 1,511; Des Moines Roosevelt, 1,494; Waukee, 1,432 and Des Moines East, 1,425.   

        Its with pride and yet, great sadness, oldtimers like me lament the fact that the old six team Central Iowa Conference, which began in 1927, had a very successful run until the late 60's before things started falling apart.

        In its prime, that old CIC held its head high with fierce competition within, numerous sparks of domination outside and a widely circulated reputation as one of the best leagues in Iowa.

        Today, those proud six members are, oftentimes, disparaged more than cheered, simply unable to match their larger competitors and their current enrollment figures show the discrepancy.

        Marshalltown was and is the biggest of the six but just 17th largest in the state with 1,242 students. Ames is 26th with 1,076; Newton 53rd with 654; Boone 63rd with 515; Oskaloosa 65th with 490 and Grinnell 73rd with 408. 

         At random, here are a few schools, not previously mentioned, and their current standing. Ankeny, 11th with 1,385; Dowling Catholic 27th with 1,071; Urbandale 33rd with 980; Indianola 37th with 900, Dallas Center Grimes 42nd with 817 and Norwalk 44th with 801.   

         Ogden is the 184th largest with 179 while Madrid is 227th at 149.

         After an earlier run in the Little Hawkeye Conference, in 2024, the Boone School Board rejected an invitation to join the Heart of Iowa Conference and their current league affiliation is the Raccoon River Conference. Those members are, from largest to smallest, Bondurant-Farrar 54th with 653; Carlisle 59th with 573; Boone 63rd with 515; Adel, ADM 64th with 499; North Polk 67th with 467; Ballard 69th with 438; Winterset 78th with 399; Gilbert 80th with 391 and Carroll 90th with 359. 

         Through the years, the enrollment numbers do change......some schools bigger, some smaller. The result, oftentimes, is the change of conference affiliation in an effort, along with the IHSAA Class system, to pair, when possible, member schools in a more fair, more balanced chance for success.

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.......https/:kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

 

          

         

         

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Cecil R. Barnes, 79, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Boone. BHS-65. Worked for Walters Sanitary Service. At 25, Cecil suffered a work accident which resulted in amputation of both legs. After the accident, good friend Howard Van Cannon welcomed Cecil into his home. Then, in the 80's, Cecil lost his vision. Despite these setbacks, Cecil never let it stop him from "having fun." He was known for his quick wit, his love for cars, his stubbornness and perfectly timed one-liners. Nothing much held him back and he loved following Iowa State sports, especially women's basketball. Due to his calling in sale items and friends birthdays on KWBG, he became known as "The Godfather of Tradio." Survivors include many members of the Van Cannon family. Services in Boone and Moingona.

       Daniel Earl Larson, 75, Stratford. Services in Stratford.

       Beverly Deanna Jensen, 87, DeWitt. Born in Boone. Services in DeWitt/Clinton. 

       Denise Susan Miller, 71, Mt. Joy, PA. Earned an Associate of Arts Degree from Boone Campus, DMACC. Was a Registered Nurse who worked at several area hospitals. Services in Pennsylvania. 

       Thomas Eugene Shaeffer, 88, Omaha. Born in Boone. Huxley HS. 

       Judge Victor Glen Lathrop, 76, Ames. Was a racing enthusiast and loved spending time at the Boone Speedway.

       Mark James Kean, 63, Des Moines. Born in Boone.