BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATH

       Paul "Lindy" Lindahl, 82, Boone/Eastern Star. Services in Boone. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Tragic news from Missouri. A former Boone resident, Vicki Harper, of Rockwell City, was the victim of a vehicle crash on a Missouri highway. Two other women were also killed. Vicki Harper's husband, Steve Harper, another former Boone resident, was seriously injured. Another passenger in the Harper vehicle, Marcine Usher, 67, of Harlan was killed as was the driver of the other involved car, Marries Garrett, 59, of Carthage, Texas.  It was reported that the Garrett driven vehicle crossed the center line and struck the car driven by Steve Harper head on. Both vehicles caught fire from the impact.    

        Alexander "Alex" James Buckles, 39, Boone. Death due to complications of cerebral palsy. Born in Boone. Attended BHS. He loved the outdoors and music. Survivors include his parents, Denny and Gina Buckles, his maternal grandmother, Jean Blanshan, his aunt and uncle, Paula and Bruce Conlin, his cousin, Sean Conlin and his wife, Lyndsey, all of Boone. A sister also survives. A private graveside service and burial in Boone. 

       Jenny Cheville Bassett, 89, Ames/Napier. Ames HS-54. Worked at Mutual Benefit in Ames and then the Seed Lab in Napier before retirement. After marriage to Fritz Bassett, the couple settled on a farm and Jenny managed the business. She loved gardening, canning, crocheting and fishing trips. Jenny was practical in nature, had a strong work ethic, provided great generosity and had a salty sense of humor. Survivors include her husband, Fritz Bassett, a sister, Kathy Ashburn, sons Bill (Roxanne) and Vick (Ann) and a daughter Connie (Lance) Benton. Services in Boone and burial near Luther.

       Greg "Sach" Stevens, 68, Born and raised in Ogden. Grew up on a family farm. Married Bonnie in 1980. Greg was a lifelong musician who found joy in playing guitar and singing with local bands. Survivors include his wife, Bonnie, his children, Corey, Jess and Jake. Greg, who battled a series of medical issues will be remembered for his passion for music, his humor, determination, and his unwavering devotion to his family. A COL will be held at a later date.

        

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Jo Ann Bullard Durlam, 89, Ames. Born in Ogden. Lived in Beaver until 1950, then moved to a farm near Cooper. HS at Franklin Consolidated in Cooper. Jo was active in sports and music, a talented pianist. Received a teaching certificate from Morningside. Married Mike Durlam Jr. in 1956 and moved to Grand Junction, then Jefferson. The family moved to Ames in 1964 so Mike could expand Durlam and Durlam Clothing. Jo worked in the store, served the community in many ways and following retirement, she was her church's Business Manager for 12 years, retiring again in 2015. An avid reader, excellent cook and baker, she enjoyed staying active. Jo was a devoted fan of the Cyclone teams and Reiman Gardens. Two daughters and a brother survive. Services in Ames.    

       Jenny Bassett, 89, Boone. Services in Boone.       

       Paula Holmgren Silvey, 76, Lenexa, Kansas. The family lived in Boone in Paula's early years. Her parents were Paul and Edna Holmgren. A family move to Des Moines took place in 1959 and Paula attended Grandview College and Drake University. Several other moves were made before settling in Lenexa. Survivors include a son, daughter and brother. Services in Lenexa.

        Bonnie Mae Dirksen Troe, 90, Vinton. Six children survive, including David (Terri) Troe of Boone. Services in Vinton.

        Marjorie Ann Daft, 94, Cedar Rapids. Survivors include a grandson, Jacob Studt of Boone. Services in Cedar Rapids. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Joyce Moorman Elsberry, 89, Boone. Born in Ralston, IA. BHS-55. Married Raymond Elsberry in Nashua in 1958. She worked at Bourns for 20 years and retired from Besser Quinn in Boone. Joyce was a member of the Tall Corn Antique Car Club and Klassy Kruiser Car Club. She enjoyed cruising with friends on weekend trips to states around Iowa. Survivors include her five children, Mike Elsberry of Ogden and Karla (Mark) Ashby of Boone. Also, Cindy (Dwight) Powers, Lori (Tom) Lyon and Tammi Guldenpfennig (Hal Fallert). Sibling survivors are Ron (Donna) Moorman, Jack (Betty) Moorman, Janice (Ed) Swain, Donna Myers and Dennis Moorman. A private graveside service will be held.

      Connie Lou Thom Pesta, 89, Long Prairie, MN. Born in Boone in 1936. Her parents were Martin and Honey Thom. Services in Long Prairie.

      Nancy Marie Stockman Edwards, 86, Clarksville, Tennessee. Born in Boone in 1940. Her parents were Rutherford W. Stockman and Helen Adams Stockman Swanson. 

      Patricia Lea "Tricia" Hoffman, 72, Elm Creek, Nebraska. Born in Boone in 1953. 

      Marvin L.Schieltz, 85, Dubuque. Three children survive, including Randal (Emily) Schieltz of Boone. Services in Dubuque. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED EATHS

        Richard Wayne Silver, 81, Tampa, FL. Born in Kansas. BHS-63, where he excelled in diving. Married Barbara Jipp in 1965 in Boone. Army vet. After service, Richard completed college and worked as an engineer. He enjoyed rehabbing sailboats and sailing around Tampa Bay. His goal was to live on a sailboat and see the world from the ocean. He worked on fixing boats and building the cabintry. Wife Barbara died in 2019. Survivors include a son, a daughter and siblings, Carla (BHS-79) (Jeff) Toms, Ron (BHS-64) (Mindy) Silver and Roger (BHS-86) (Michelle (Shelly) Currier (BHS-88) Silver. Richard's parents, both deceased, were Don and Vivian Silver. Services in Boone.        

        Carol Sue Bentley, 68, passed in Ames due to pancreatic cancer. Born in Ames. Grew up on a dairy farm south of Ames. United Community HS-76, and was active in sports, band, chorus.....virtually, every offering. Earned a B.A. degree from Central College in Pella in 1980. Had also graduated from the Florida School of Massage in 1979 and massage therapy became her life's calling, practicing for over 30 years in five states. Carol loved the outdoors, was very artistic, an excellent cook, loved animals and music. A free spirit, Carol, in the 90's, was very involved in the mountain biking scene, especially in Utah. Her ex-husband, Bob Owen, preceded her in death. Five siblings survive, Dennis and Scott Bentley, Becky Christiansen, Jane Weaver and Mary Wills. A COL will be held in Ames.   

       Diane Lee Ryan Mitchels, 62, Ogden. Passed due to surgery complications. Born in Boone County. Diane loved motorcycle rides, camping, baking and sitting around a campfire. She was in charge of starting the fire and had her own fire poker. Both as an employee and manager, Diane spent 20 years at Boone and Ogden Casey's. She had worked earlier at the Woodward State Hospital and Hilltop Greenhouse. Survivors include her husband, Bill Mitchels, and her mother, Marilyn Ryan, both of Ogden, four sons, Justin, Nick, Max, and Adam Watts, and a sister, Tammy Watts, all of Boone. Services in Boone.

WE'RE PROUD OF DMACC AND BEARS SOFTBALL

       No denial here.......I'm very biased and proud of it. 

       After high school graduation in 1953.....and even before, I turned my attention to furthering my education. After all, it was, more or less, expected. I'm sure there were others like me.......who had no clue, at that time, what they wanted to do with the lifetime of years lurking ahead.

        I guess you could say, "Boone Junior College" saved me. The flags all pointed in that direction. I could stay in the community I loved and even my long time "home base" if I desired. Plus, credits gained  at a cheaper rate......would be transferable to any future education destination.

        In addition, I had already started employment at KWBG and was able to continue work hours that fit perfectly with my college class schedule. Not to be forgotten, with the realization I was never going to  be a big time college athlete, I could still enjoy another two years of basketball.....kind of a meltdown of my previously active sports participation career.

        Well, to make a long story much shorter, those early years in adult growth couldn't have been more suitable for me.

        Its taken some time and words but finally, I'm ready to get to the "meat" of  this Korner edition.

        Our Boone Campus Des Moines Area Community College softball ladies have done it again. Coach Bob Ligouri's team will begin play in the NJCAA Division II Softball World Series clear out in Spartanburg, South Carolina, a week from today, Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

        The Bears success has been so consistent through recent years, we, fans, have probably, unfairly, expected such prominence. In his nine years at DMACC, Coach Ligouri has posted a 434-97 record with nine top ten national ratings, eight World Series appearances, with four of those teams finishing in the Final Four.

        To earn a berth in the 2026 World Series, the Bears, first, captured a 5-2 win over Iowa Central on their home grounds to secure a Regional championship. Then, they traveled clear out to Glendive, Montana and posted 8-0 and 9-0 victories over Dawson Community College of Glendive for another championship........this one to earn their World Series position.

         The current roster has a 54-10 record overall and finished 32-4 in conference action. They have earned a nine seed in the World Series and its been determined that their first round opponent in Spartanburg will be a familiar foe, Pima Community College of Tucson, Arizona, who boasts a 47-8 record and is seeded eighth.

         Those two locked up in the World Series consolation bracket last year and Pima posted a 9-1 win. This year's first round game will be played at 10 a.m. Iowa time on the 20th. 

         As you perhaps have discovered from my previous writings  regarding BJC/DMACC, the lack of coverage of its daily existence bothers this grad. It seems this college community lies "within a larger community" and is somewhat unnoticed as a result. It shouldn't be that way, especially in view of the fact its one of Boone's number one assets.

         Believe me, I know......about the general lack of media coverage provided these days and I also understand not every ounce of blame can be placed on that. Its a new world and I have no magic answer. HOWEVER, I can, at least in a brief moment, occasionally, like now, shout to the roof tops about how proud I am of my old school and any of its accomplishments. 

          CONGRATULATIONS AND GO BEARS. 

K-----K

          While I'm at it.....a mention of the wonderful facilities available for Boone Campus students.

           Among others, did you realize that the DMACC "Den" is one of just three regulation size college basketball courts under one roof in Iowa?

           So what? It means that there is enough room available that winter practices are easily available for separate activities all at the same time in the same place.

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

       Phyliss J. Knopf Linn, 90, Boone/Westhaven. Born in Algona. Confirmed at Trinity Lutheran, Dayton. Burnside HS-52. Iowa State Teachers College (now UNI). Married Gerald Earl Linn in 1954 in Dayton. After work as a telephone operator and a move to Boone, Phyliss worked at the Episcopal Center and Eastern Star. She enjoyed reading and gardening, a fan of the Hawkeyes and Cubs, she and Gus enjoyed playing 500 with neighbors and friends. Bingo at Westhaven was also a favorite. Four children survive, including Susanne (Jim) Dawkins and Kristi (Daryl) Angaran both of Boone. A brother and four sisters also survive. A COL will take place with graveside services in Boone.     

       Maria Kaip Watke, 61, Ogden. Born and grew up in Minnesota. Died of brain cancer. Was a homemaker and also worked at Cheesecake Factory and Kwik Star. Her husband, Terry, and son, Nick, preceded her in death. Survivors include her mother Sonni Kaip, a sister and three brothers. Maria lived in Ute, Storm Lake and then Ogden. A COL will be held in Ogden.

       Charlotte Lorraine Grimes Meiners, 82, Ames. Survivors include a grandson, Sean (Vanessa) Van Cannon of Boone. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

      Linda Hopkins Nutt, 83, Boone. Born in Dexter, IA. BSH-61. Earned a teaching degree at the University of Northern Iowa and taught for 35 years, primarily at the Ogden North Middle School. Linda loved science and was the person to consult concerning anything related to that topic. She enjoyed spending time with her best friend, Jane Martin, and loved golfing with the "Golfing Grannies." She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom. Survivors include two daughters, Kathy (Brian) McCarey and Boone resident, Wendy (Travis) Patterson, her brother, Ron Hopkins, and several grandchildren. Private service and COL in Boone.    

       Barbara "Barb" "Barbie" Ann Pittman, 72, Jefferson. Survivors include two daughters, Danielle Dalton of Madrid and Gloria "Jim" Conrad of Ogden. A COL will be held later.

       Barbara Jeanne Bryan Kordick, 86, Atlantic. Formerly of Corning. Married Wayne Kordick in 1961. Survivors include a daughter-in-law, Julie Kordick of Boone. Services in Corning.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Judith Janelle Houston Knutson, 87, St. Louis. BHS-57. The family settled in Boone but it was in Dunlap Iowa that she met Bill Knutson, her future husband. The couple built their life and family in the Crawford and Monona County area of southwest Iowa. In Dunlap, the couple was active in church, Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star. In the mid 80's, they quit farming when Judy accepted a job in Omaha at the Marriott International Reservation Center. Later, she was promoted to the sales team at the Marriott Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Additional promotions were received and she eventually became the opening Director of Sales at the new Residence Inn by Universal Studios. The couple enjoyed retirement in Orlando but then health issues brought them to St. Louis and a closeness to family members. In 2003, Judy was diagnosed with esophageal cancer and she became one of the longest known survivors of that dread disease. Survivors include four children and two brothers. Services in Soldier, Iowa.     

        Norma Jean Herridge, 89, Ogden/Accura Healthcare. Born in rural Ogden. OHS-55. Was a volunteer for many years at the Ogden Manor and Ogden Rural Main Street. She loved to crochet and knit. Many of her pot holders were distributed with food pantry items through her church. She also knit scarfs for active military serving overseas. Services in Ogden. 

       Sandra Kay "Sandi" Kruse Miller, 82, Ankeny. Born in Perry. Grew up in Beaver. Ogden HS-61. Married Anthony Tony Miller in 1977. Sandi worked for Ogden Municipalities for 33 years, retiring in 2004. She loved the Hawkeyes and Cubs. Sandi gave generously, loved fiercely and left behind a family that is a testament to everything she was. Survivors include her husband, four children and her brother, Daryl Kruse of Boone. Sandi was baptized in Ogden and a service will be held in Ankeny followed by a graveside service in Ogden. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Merle Lee Krug, 84, Marion. Born in Boone. BHS-59. Navy vet. After service, worked at Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapids. Married Mary Wheat in 1967. They divorced. Merle was an avid woodcarver. He enjoyed making homemade wine and beer. A faithful church member. Survivors include a son and his sister, Doris Krug Simmons of Boone. Services in Cedar Rapids.    

        Kate Lenora Masterson Uthe, 95, Boone. Born in Kansas City. Grew up in Boone. BSH-49. Married George Otto in 1950. The couple made their home on a farm in Boone County. She loved telling old stories, eating good food and laughing together. Her faith was important and she was active in the many parishes she belonged too. In her later years, she returned to her childhood parish, Sacred Heart in Boone. She worked as a student aide at South Hamilton school, took exercise classes, was active in church and enjoyed listening to audiobooks. Kate was very ornery, honest, blunt and headstrong, always ready to have fun and enjoy the finer things of life. Survivors include her children, Steve, John and Jim Uthe, Janet Young, Mary Key Steele and Pat Butler. Services in Ames.    

       Warren Hugo Claussen, 96, Ogden/Grimes/Kennybrook Village. Born in Ogden. OHS-46. Joined his father in operating a Texaco station. Married Carol Thrailkill in 1951. Iowa Army National Guard vet from 1948 to 1969 when he retired as a Major with over 20 years of service. Earned a degree in business administration and accounting at age 45 from Drake University in 1974. Worked for an accounting firm in Des Moines for a time and then joined City State Bank in Ogden in 1978. He retired in 1992 but served on the Ogden BancShares board of directors from 1994-2008. Warren was an active church member, served on the Ogden School Board for six years and was a 22-year board member of the Ogden Telephone Company. Survivors include a daughter, Deb Kesse, three sons, Steve, Dan and Tom, and a sister, Kathryn Handy. Services in Ogden.      

       Robert Lundy, 68, Boone. Service in Texas later. 

THEN AND NOW

       So, what's on the mind of a 91-year old on a beautiful Sunday morning in my favorite city, Boone Iowa? 

        Just read that today marks the 92nd birthday for Frankie Valli, the lead singer of the Four Seasons......."Can't take my eyes off of you" fame. Great news Frankie. You're an inspiration.  Keep on "pumpin out" that great music. And, I didn't realize that long time country singer Gary Morris, 78, wrote that beautiful song, "Wind beneath my wings."

        The news is not so great concerning country star Alan Jackson, who, at only 68, is no longer hitting the road due to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, which effects mobility and balance. And its his famous song, "Remember When" that fits right into the main subject of this offering.

         Remember when? Yup....I got caught tripping down memory lane last night. Couldn't hide an eruption of great hilarity which resulted in wife Jo's question...."What in the world are you laughing about?"

         Truth is...it was 8:45 p.m., a usual bedtime these days, and I was thinking of those many young years past when that was about the time we youngsters, mainly teenagers, got ready to go.......SOMEWHERE.

          I, the Kornerman, grew up around 17th and Crawford with many more friends south of me than north. So, I'd start WALKING south and seemed to meet with kids from all different directions all along the way to the downtown area.

          By the time we'd hit Eighth and Story, there might be a dozen or more in our mixed group. Obviously, none of us had access to a vehicle and we weren't looking for trouble. Just the opposite really, good conversation and, perhaps, a trip to Boyd's for a shake or a coke at the Bon Appetite.

         Weapons? You have to be kidding unless you consider closed fists as weapons. Still, it was admittedly a bit unusual for a young group to gather on a downtown street corner at that time. They may not have even been called, but it wouldn't be unusual for some cops to drop by to see if everything was O.K.. They'd seen this same scene many times before.

          Then too, this oldster has never quite grasped this newer education format......open campus, that kind of thing. At times, I see young people, backpacks and all, walking or biking toward school like at 9 a.m. or even later? And, its not unusual to see similar sights at maybe 2 or 3 p.m. heading away from school.

           I'll be honest, I can't recall whether in my day, the late 40's, early 50's, what, if any food option there, was from the school. If so, I never participated. I remember some of the students who bused in from the rural area or ever some others "brown bagging" at noontime in the bleachers above the old gym.

          All during junior and senior high, my main option was.......walking straight down Crawford Street from 17th to school at 8th......nine blocks. Had to be there at 8 a.m., left for lunch at home at noon, back to school at 1 p.m. and in the classroom until 4 p.m.......before activity involvement.

          I can't imagine the hundreds of times I made that trip. If walking is the best exercise, I must have been in the best condition of my life. Wish I could say the same today.

          Oh yes.....there's the railroad which I failed to mention. Even with the back and forth, I had thirty minutes to consume the wonderful lunch my terrific mother prepared but a possible hindrance was the good old Chicago and Northwestern. I'm sure I'm not the only person who can remember many instances when  we north siders had close calls "beating" those trains as we made our way to school.

          At my age, I confess......there are many things that my memory has lost. However, there are some that are still available and pop up now and then........and usually prompt a good laugh or two, like last night. And, that's pretty good medicine.

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......kttps:/kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

           

            

           

            

 

           

           

          

          

 

             

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       April Lynn Guinn Cooper, 64, Stratford/Care Center. Born in Massachusetts. The family moved to Madrid. MHS-80. Married Jeff Tilley in 1982. April enjoyed coloring, camping, crafts, bowling, boat rides, the Minnesota Vikings and Iowa Hawkeyes. Three children, Jeremy, Tricia and Caleb Tilley survive. A COL is planned later.      

        Larry D. Hook, 85, Nevada/Windsor Manor. Born in Sewal, IA. Navy 24 year Viet Nam vet. Married Corina Jimenez in Las Vegas in 1966. Corina passed in 2011.Worked as a technician for Sears  in Perry, Humeston, Zearing and Nevada. Larry enjoyed fishing, watching the squirrels and playing at the casino. Two sons survive. Services in Ogden. Graveside service at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.       

       Dr. W. Robert Taylor, 93, Boone/Rochester, MN. Born in Akron IA. LeMars Central HS-49. Nebraska State Teacher's College, earned a Bachelors Degree from Wayne State in 1958 and a Master's Degree from Colorado State College in 1961. A PhD in Psychology was also earned from the University of Northern Colorado in 1980. U.S. Army vet. Robert taught in Nebraska high schools and colleges in Nebraska and Tennessee before settling in Boone and teaching at Des Moines Area Community College. In retirement, Robert traveled the country, spending time in Boone and Rochester. Nieces survive and their will be a graveside service in rural LeMars.

A CONSIDERATE NEIGHBOR

       Here I am, the Kornerman,........in unsettled waters.......AGAIN. Trying to tell a story that involves a subject I have very limited knowledge of.

       In complete honesty, I'm zilch when it comes to printed cartoons.....those ones that still appear in many of the countries newspapers. I've never had a real interest in the "funnies," except on occasions when Jo sees one she thinks I should look at.

       Yet, the subject of this Korner is Alley Oop. Wikipedia describes it as a comic strip created by V.T. Hamlin in 1932, featuring a caveman who travels to different historical periods from the Stone Age to modern times. 

        Questions are, no doubt, being asked, Why? Why take a deep dive into this subject? Its a good Boone connection that's why. Plus, it shows the kind of respect we Boone residents show our friends, neighbors and acquaintances. 

         I'm sure lots of Boone folks remember long time residents Rolland "Brodie" Mosman and his wife, Delores "Dee" Mosman. Brodie was best known as a mechanical whiz who owned and operated Brodie's Truck Service on Knezevich Road, east end of town for 22 years. The ladies we're sure, remember Dee, who managed Fashion Crossroads on Story Street in downtown Boone for nine years until that store closed.

         In retirement, the Mosman's spent 35 years in Mountain View, Arkansas. Due to health issues, the couple moved back "home" to Boone in 2017 to be closer to family. Brodie passed in October of 2022.

         But, let's cut to the main reason for this story. 

         In Arkansas, Bill, a neighbor of the Mosman's, mentioned that in Florida, he had become acquainted with the Alley Oop cartoonist. It was obvious he had become enamored with him and his cartoons. So much so that Dee started, as a gift for him, a daily routine of cutting Alley Oop out of the newspaper and pasting it on pages of one of those three-ring binders.

         Dee started this in 1991 and it grew and grew as a huge gift to their friend. She said, "he was really thrilled to receive it." After Bill passed, she discontinued the routine. But, by then, at five cartoons per page, that binder exceeded any normal limit, Dee has it in her possession but doesn't know what to do with it. A friend told her, "maybe Mo Kelley would have an interest in it." 

         So..........anybody have an idea for a nice, permanent resting place for Dee's many years of kindness,  philanthropy and laughs?

K-----K

          I knew it would happen. In fact, you may recall, in the last edition, I pre-apologized for probably missing some area athletes who deserved five star ratings but were not mentioned. 

          How could I possibly miss two of the sure-bets? Not many better than Toreador pitcher Jack Mustapha and Boone High football treasure John Hendricks?

           Please accept old age as an excuse.

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

       Abigail Jane Martin Doerder, 43, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-2001. Earned a B.S. degree in social work from Iowa State in 2006 and a Master's degree in social work from the State University of Iowa in 2009. Had worked as a Therapist for Innovative Counseling. Survivors include three children, Ely, Paizley and Hadley Doerder, two brothers, Aaron and Joel, and a special friend, Marcus Marine. Services in Boone.       

       Lee Richard "Rick" Whitten, 66, Ogden/Eastern Star. Passed of a recent brain aneurysm. Born in Arizona. He loved his family, his pond, feeding his family, gardening, astrology, RAGBRAI and music. Survivors include his long time partner, Shari Swedlund, two children, Jennifer and Johnathan, and three siblings. A COL will be held.       

       John E. Fosenburg Jr., 90, Des Moines/University Park Nursing Rehab. Born in Moran, IA. Grew up in California. Berkeley HS. Oakland Jr. College. Army vet. Married Rozanne M. Christensen in Ogden in 1960. The couple settled in Des Moines where John worked for Burlington Truck Line and Pella Windows until retirement in 1997. He enjoyed ballroom dancing, traveling, Broadway shows, Branson and car shows. A sister survives. Private family graveside services in Ogden. 

       Camilla Sue McCain, 69, Bouton/Madrid Home. Worked at Woodward Resource Center. Survivors include a niece, Sarah McCain, of Boone. Private burial in Woodward.

       Thomas Charles Younggren, 84, Richmond, VA. Born in Boone. His parents were James and Eleanor Younggren. Services in Florida.

        Robert "Bob" Dean Garland, 72, Hutchinson, KS. Born in Ames. AHS-72. Worked in Boone as a Project Coordinator for the George Rolfes company. 

        Ella Marie Pennington, 99, Perry. Born in Peoples Township, Boone County. Served on the Boone County Extension Council. Services in Perry.

BOONE/AREACONNECTED DEATHS

       Donna K. Carter Westerman, 75, Colony, KS. Born in Boone. Her parents were Donald and Kate Carter.

       Elaine Ann Burt Marsh, 78, Boone/Eastern Star. Formerly of Grimes. Born in Boone. Her parents were John Robert and Betty Louise Grimm Burt. Ogden HS-65. AIB in Des Moines. Married Franklin Marsh in Ogden in 1978. Lived in rural Dallas County until moving to Grimes. Elaine worked for Northwestern Bell until retirement. Three siblings survive, including John Burt of Pilot Mound. Services in Grimes. 

       Nelma Jean Godfrey Vest, 85, Oklahoma City, OK. Born in Boone. BHS-60. Married T. Aaron Vest in 1962. The couple's three oldest children were born in Boone. The family moved to Columbia, MO in 1968 but then relocated to Nevada, IA where they owned a bar for three years. In 1975, they sold the bar and purchased a KFC in Cherokee. The couple closed that restaurant and moved to Munich, Germany in 1985. Aaron had accepted a position as a Burger King store manager with the Army and Air Force Exchange service. That move marked the beginning of Nelma's own 20-year career with AAFES. In 1994, the couple were transferred to Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma and in 1997, Aaron passed away. Nelma retired from AAFES in 2005. Survivors include two brothers, Darrell and Steven, and children, Thomas, Theresa, Aaronnett, Noreen and Patrick. Services were held in Oklahoma.

     John G. Wells, 82, Boone. Passed away in Dubuque.

      Myrtle Mary McGrath Robinson, 93, Victor, IA. Born in Boone. Her parents were Earl and Myrtle McGrath.

      Thomas Elwin Grimes, 96, Detroit. Born in Monticello. BHS-47. His father was Superintendent of Boone Schools. Boone Junior College. Cornell College and Columbia University. He loved athletics and music. Tom worked for Ford Motors for 35 years until retirement. He was an active tennis player until age 90. Survivors include his wife and her daughter, his ex-wife, a son and a daughter.

       Georgia Moore Wilson, 95, Delevan, MN. Born in Boone. Her parents were George and Velma Moore.

       Sharon Lynn Richmond Mockerman, 87, Nehawka, Ne. Born in Boone. Her parents were Leonard and Lois Richmond.

       Delia Rovena Larson Dittmer, 88, Jackson, MO. Born in Boone. BHS-55. Married Clarence Dittmer in Boone in 1954. The couple lived in various Iowa, Illinois and Florida communities but moved to Jackson in 1973. Delia worked at a Holiday Inn for many years. She enjoyed traveling, golfing, gardening and the Cardinals. Four children survive. Services were held in Missouri. 

             

CORRESPONDENTS ARE ALIVE AND HELPFUL

       I'm reminded of a great song and lyric...."that's what friends are for."

       I thought I, the Kornerman, was up to date on that recent Boone County Newspaper story but, NOT TRUE. I, mistakenly thought the "goose was cooked."

      There's more forward information available and its because of a Korner friend that I'm forced to admit failure......I never knew until she sent me a copy of a publication "Unfinished Business," that detailed continuation plans were underway for the Ogden Reporter and Madrid News Register. Those publications were just two of eighteen smaller town newspapers, located in 15 Iowa counties, who were given notices of closure by their owner, Mid America Publishing.

       So, full disclosure. Through the follow-up work of the Korner reader and mentioned publication, we have the latest news regarding this story and its good news for several of those communities involved and their patrons. 

       The Ogden Reporter and Madrid Register News have been purchased by Central Iowa Publishing, owned by Dustin and Taylor Teays, who actually live in Bayard and also publish the Scranton Journal and Bayard News Gazette.

       The couple stresses the fact that even though they are not Ogden or Madrid residents, "we will be present, we will show up, and tell your stories."

        The Hampton Chronicle will now be a partner of Parkersburg radio stations. In Eagle Grove and Clarion, the Eagle Grove Eagle, Wright County Monitor, Ida County Courier and Holstein Advance have been purchased by Jerry Wiseman and Kristin Grabinoski. Grabinoski also publishes the Armstrong Journal, Bancroft Register, Swea City Herald Press and Ringsted Dispatch, while partnering with Wiseman on the Humboldt Independent. 

        The Garner Leader and Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter were acquired by Enterprise Media, a Charles City based publishing company, founded by Christopher and Kristin Hall. That couple also owns and operates the Kossuth County Advance, New Hampton Tribune, Greene Recorder, Nashua Reporter, Spencer Reporter, Dickinson County News and the Decorah Leader, in addition to the Charles City Press.

       Nelson Media Company, owned by Chris Nelson, has purchased the Lake City Graphic Advocate, Winnebago County Tribune, Parkersburg Eclipse News Review, Butler County Tribune, Clarksville Star and Grundy Register.

       The Leader in Dayton was purchased by Justine Hemmestad and her husband Shawn a couple years ago but then, Mid America's announcement forced change. The Leader has shifted to a digital focus, while maintaining some mail subscriptions and selling copies at drop-off points. 

       Just like all the others, though the formats have changed, their mission remains the same; to provide reliable, relevant and community centered journalism. 

       That's great to hear. 

K-----K

        In recent years, sports jargon has added "five star, four star etc. and generational" to its vocabulary.        There's much more to this story, of course, but, basically, earning a top rating is like earning a golden ticket. It means the top nation's evaluators believe the athlete involved has all the tools needed, with no limit to future stardom. And, all those evaluators have their own method of determining the impending value of the athlete, although there can be and are many individual disagreements.

        If those top players can prove they belong by going on to productive, successful careers, they may  be given one final accolade........being tabbed a generational talent. Which means they've maintained a strong performance and influence over a very long period of time.

        All this got me, the Kornerman, thinking of all the local talent that I've observed in eighty years or so that might just qualify in one of these top "star" categories.

        One of the latest I've noticed is Jevyn Severson of Madrid, who has earned four-star recogntion as a sophomore. An all around athlete, Jevyn was a starter on those great, recent Tiger basketball teams, including the 2025 undefeated State championship team.

        However, Jevyn is earning the most praise in football, where, as a sophomore, he has received 29 official Division 1 offers.. According to one rating service, he is the number one player and number two tight end prospect in Iowa and 63rd best in the nation.

         Speaking of Madrid, I remember Dick Jensen, who became the starting center for Coach Ralph Miller's 1969-70 University of Iowa basketball team, one of the best teams in Hawkeye history. In all honesty, I'm not sure in those times, there was "star" recognition but certainly he must have been a five star recruit.

          When I think of Boone High I'm sure Mike Enich from the 1940's, Roger Dutton from the 60's and the father-son team of Marty and Chad Rinehart were all qualifiers for at least four stars if not five. Can't ignore Connie Ablett and Jackie Parrish, two terrific Toreador basketball guards, who were both first team all-staters two consecutive years either. Rita Peterson was an outstanding Grand Community guard and, of course, Jim Goodrich, out at United community, certainly earned top basketball recognition. He must have been a five star.

          I apologize, in advance, because I know I will miss mentioning some local athletes that, in their time, received four-star or, perhaps, even five-star recognition. 

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

       Emma M. Mosier, 88, Boone/Madrid Home. Born in Jefferson. Emma loved wordsearch puzzles, plastic canvas art, baking and old TV shows like Murder She Wrote and Matlock. Four children survive, Craig (Pat) Elsberry, Roy and Vicki Elsberry all of Boone and Leonard Elsberry. A brother also survives. A COL is planned.     

        Robert Max "Bob" Malone, 87, Perry. Born in Indiana. Franklin HS. Married Sandra Louise McVay in 1962. The couple lived in Luther, Webster City, Carroll, Woodward and finally, Perry. Bob was a baker at the Woodward Resource Center for 30 years. Retired in 1997. For 15 years, he was a Woodward volunteer fireman. He loved Elvis and bore a striking resemblance to the King himself. He enjoyed westerns and classic movies, was a man of few words, but his quiet humor and infectious smile left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Two daughters survive, as do several grandchildren. Services in Madrid.      

       Kevin Lew Bennett, 72, Boone. BHS-71. Kevin was a proud union man, working many years at Bridgestone Firestone. He was also a big sports fan, especially following the Iowa Hawkeyes. He loved playing softball, fishing, pottery and DVD's. He is survived by his daughter, Marci (Brian) Johnson. A graveside service is planned at Linwood Park Cemetery 

CORRECTION

     In our recent post, "The Truth and Nothing but...." we were in error regarding some information about the Manriquez boys. We had mentioned that Michael, Jim and John were all deceased....NOT TRUE.

     We now know that John Manriquez, BHS-56, is alive and in Rogersville, Alabama while Michael, BHS-69, is alive and in Virginia.

     So sorry about the error and happy to report better news.

 MDK 

AN IMPORTANT PIECE OF IOWA TELEVISION HISTORY

       In all honesty, I, the Kornerman, am not a frequent viewer of channel five, WOI-TV, aka weareiowa, television AND that's a d.... shame. It deserves better.

       Late comedian Rodney Dangerfield lived his very successful life bemoaning the fact he "didn't get any respect." In many ways, channel five could demand the same. In the first years of its 75-year history, WOI-TV was a real, local television frontrunner but as time has passed, its become more of an afterthought. Sometimes, life just isn't fair. 

       However, through the years, channel five has dealt with innumerable changes in varied ownerships plus constant changes in personnel and branding, much to the chagrin of potential viewers.

       Just this year, the Nexstar Broadcasting group merged with Tegna to secure ownership of a station threesome, WOI, WHO and KCWI. What started at birth as an Iowa State College asset (yes) was eventually obtained by Citadel, then by Nexstar and now by Tegna. Not exactly a road to stability. 

       I hope this edition of the Korner provides some heartfelt but gleeful emotion from older readers and for the younger crowd, an opening  to some State of Iowa television history they are very much unaware of.

       I'm sure, by now, that younger group is, at least, aware of the fact television, in general, was a complete no-no prior to the 1950's. 

       But on February 21, 1950, this crazy dream of watching a live event, locally, or from a distance, appearing on a screen in a nearby store, or even a living room, began this delightful existence in Iowa. Anybody else remember crowding the street in front of Reedholm's Hardware on Story to witness this history, despite its various inconsistent frailties?

        On that date, WOI-television, snowy picture and all, appeared on those screens but on channel four, not five. 

         AND, that was actually Iowa's second ever television offering, following WOC-TV, now KWQC-TV of Davenport. However, WOI-TV was the first television station owned and operated by an educational institution, Iowa State College in Ames, and just the 100th in the entire of U.S.A.. WHO-TV followed in 1954 and KRNT, now KCCI, of Des Moines, in 1955.

         Unlike those other central Iowa newcomers, WHO and KCCI, WOI was, from the get-go, noted for its educational programming, even including courses for college credit and a daily educational program for elementary students.

         When exploring the programming history of WOI-TV, oftentimes, a "the house with the Magic Window" program immediately draws the most attention. This children's program featured hand crafting activities and all things children. It was considered a safe place for central Iowa kids and boasts a history few can match.

          From 1951-1994.....THAT'S 43 YEARS.......that program aired........the longest running children's television program in American history and for all but the first three years, it was hosted by Betty Lou Varnum. Another of the more well known shows featured early on WOI-TV  was American Bandstand hosted by Dick Clark. Remember?

          Believe it or not, I, the Kornerman, am an alum of WOI-TV. Here's the story.

          I was discharged from service with the U.S. Army in 1956 and started classes at Iowa State College/University. I can't remember exactly how it developed but, somehow, I landed, at least a part-time job, at WOI-TV. I imagine the fact I had previous KWBG radio announcing experience might have had a bearing on that hiring decision.

           My job was extremely vital and important to the station........not. Very late at night,  along with a microphone, I was "stuffed" into a sound proof booth.....which boasted a seating capacity of one and, in those magic moments between television shows, I uttered those famous words......"This is WOI-TV, channel five, Ames."

           THAT WAS IT. My entire WOI-TV experience.  No Emmy nomination was forthcoming.

           Channel five has been a valuable "starting point" for too many to mention personalities who have become successful at other central Iowa stations. I quickly think of Erin Kiernan, Andy Fales and Samantha Mesa, all who started at WOI-TV but then moved to other area stations.

K-----K

            Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Marshall street, 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

       Marie C. Sundquist Peterson, 72, Marshalltown/Vets Home since 2018. Born in Boone. BHS-72. Married Darrell Peterson in Boone in 1979. Darrell passed in 2019. Marie was a waitress before becoming a cook at Westhaven in Boone until retirement. She loved Bingo, cooking and baking. A sister, Birdie Lee, survives. A Boone survivor is her brother-in-law, David (Cindi) Peterson. A private service at Veteran's Cemetery in Van Meter.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Charlene Kruse Brice, 80, Boone. Born in Boone. Ogden HS-63. Married Edward Brice in Boone in 1966. Earned a Bachelor of Education degree at the University of Missouri, St. Louis and taught in St. Louis for a few years before returning to Iowa where she served the Woodward Resource Center for 25 years. She had also taken classes to earn a Master's Degree in special education. Charlene loved cooking, traveling, horses and following ISU and Iowa basketball teams. Three daughters survive, Jennifer of Boone, Kathleen and Julie. Services in Boone.   

        Sandy Kay Augustine, 72, Nevada. Survivors include a son, Nathan (Jenn) Herink, of Boone. No services are planned. 

       Dr. Bernard DePree Mouw, 80, Des Moines. Former member of the Iowa Arboretum Board of Directors.

        Esther Mary Burton Toepfer, 94, Perry/Mount Vernon. Born in Boone County. Parents were Jess and Emma Burton. Services in Perry and Van Meter.

         Helen Marie Fischer Zook, 96, Perry. Survivors include a grandson, Corey (Angie) Zook, of Madrid.  

THE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT.......

       Dare I say this? 

      Nobody..... has been more BOONE than I.....EVER. For close to 80 years, I, through the spoken word, printer's ink or a micophone have, consistently and almost always positively, touted the many virtues of this community and its inhabitants that have been so important to my life and to others.

       WHOA! .....No regrets. I've said it and I'm glad..... Reminds me of Dizzy Dean's most famous quote. Many years ago, a baseball Hall of Fame pitcher and long time baseball broadcaster, Dean, who's syntax often drew laughter as well as criticism, uttered his true feelings when questioned about his boasting.

        Dean said, "It ain't bragging when you did it.......and I did it." 

        Well, I the Kornerman, still enjoy, at this stage, telling great stories about current great community contributors, as well as those who provided memories that still survive. I did it......and will continue until.

        And, we've got a few things to share today.

K-----K

        First, a salute to a former resident who continues to make a name for herself in the art world.

        Jo Ann Hendricks, BHS-67, has a studio and gallery in St. Paul, MN and this very weekend, she is showing her drawings via the Saint Paul Spring Art Crawl at her home base on Water Street in Saint Paul.

        Her success has been echoed by financial success and numerous sales, even to overseas clients. 

        Jo Ann was honored last year by being selected as a juror for the Minnesota State Fair Fine Art Competition, drawing and pastel, but she indicates her art time and energy "go forward" by setting up exhibitions for this year and beyond, taking part in various art crawls and entering a select Call for Arts.

         She admits, "I'm always thinking about what to do next as an artist." She adds that she's always available for Art Crawls or by appointment. To contact her....joannhendricks.studio@gmail.com.

         I have to add great memories of Jo Ann's parents and entire family. Her mother, Dorthea, working at Herald Drug on the north side, and her dad, Chuck, heavily involved in their kids athletic endeavors.

K-----K

        Jerry Manriquez, BSH-57, lost his wife, Joanna Lacey Manriquez, BSH-56, recently and the Manriquez family is certainly remembered by Boone residents past and present.

        One of the earlier memories, of course, is the fact that their famous pizza was one of the first such delicacies available to our community. Yes, in the area the Kornerman spent his earliest years, around 17th and Carroll, folks remember, right on that northeast corner, the Manriquez home, is where pizza's were made and sold right out the door.

         And, who could ever forget the dancing Manriquez twins, Jim and John, both, BHS-56,who were so locked up in their dance routine than one false move could bring them both down. Were they really tied to each other? 

         Now, only Jerry survives. Jim, John and Michael, BHS-69, are all gone.

K-----K

         Looking ahead, the Boone County Historical Society is planning some events in September that Toreador football fans should enjoy.

         It just so happens that the BHS football team of 1976 won the conference championship with a record of 8-1.

         In addition to that victory alone, its the 50th anniversary of that Merle Harris coached squad. As a result, class members are working hard to have a community celebration.

         So far, plans include an introduction of team members at a Toreador game, September 25. Then, on September 26, the Boone County Historical Society will begin an Open House exhibit that will be in operation from after Labor Day through the end of the month.

          More details will come as that time draws closer. 

         Especially for the benefit of those "outside" visitors, the Pufferbilly celebration this year is from September 18-20.

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

       Joanna Lacey Manriquez, 87, San Jacinto, CA. Born in Boone. Lived on a farm north of Boone and attended Scrabble Hill, a one-room schoolhouse through sixth grade. BSH-56. Worked for Bell Telephone in Des Moines but moved back to Boone in 1958 after her mother's death to care for her younger brother Michael, and work in the Fareway Accounting Office. Joanna met Jerry Manriquez when they were just five or six years of age. The couple married in 1961 at Sacred Heart Church in Boone. The couple lived in Cedar Falls while Jerry attended the State College of Iowa (now UNI). After earning his degrees, including a Masters, the couple moved to California where Jerry began a 30-year career as a financial analyst with North American Aviation, Rockwell International and Boeing. Joanna worked as a teacher's aid, an admission clerk for a hospital, a doctor's office and owned and operated a laundry and dry cleaning business. Joanna and Jerry moved to Norco, CA., which allowed them to raise farm animals. They traveled the country in their RV, took trips to Ireland with relatives and settled in a senior community in San Jacinto. Family was the most important thing in Joanna's life. Survivors include her husband, Jerry, a son, a daughter, brother James Lacey of Boone and a sister.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

 

       Alan Gallahan, 77, Boone. Born in Ames. AHS-67. Navy vet. Married Diana McKone in Ames in 1976. He was a plumber and enjoyed fishing. Survivors include his daughter, Jennifer Gallahan, and a brother, Mark (Yolonda) Gallahan, both of Boone. No services are planned.     

       Rhea Alveda Sprecher, 83, Oak Creek, Wisconsin. A sister, Mercedes, and a brother, LeRoy are survivors. Services including burial in Ogden.       

       Jo Lacey Manriquez, 88, San Jacinto, CA. Boone Sacred Heart-56. Married Jerry Manriquez, BSH-57. Among the survivors are her husband, Jerry, a sister, Pat Lacey Frazier, BSH-58 and a brother, Jim Lacey, BHS-53.

       Terry Lynn Carlson Parkhurst-Whipp, 78, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-65 where she excelled in basketball, with her scoring skills earning her all-state recognition. The highly-regarded Look Magazine team invited her to join them but, instead, she chose to attend Boone Junior College and Iowa State University. In 1970, she married Willie Parkhurst in Boone. The couple started their family on a farm in Winston, Mo. While Willie raised Charolais beef cattle, Terry was a school secretary. In 1980, the couple moved back to the Boone area. Terry worked in Ames at the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Services and the couple's children attended United Community school. Willie passed away in 2000 and Terry married Shannon Whipp in 2007. The couple moved to a farm near Leon. Terry moved back to the Boone area in 2017 after Shannon's death. She enjoyed following the success of both the ISU and Iowa women's basketball teams. Survivors include daughters Kammie (Jeffrey) Friese and Shelly (James) Biladeau and three sisters, including Linda Hoppe and Karen (Doug) Brezina both of Boone and Tammie (Michael) Wallace. Terry had battled kidney disease in her final years. Services in Boone.      

       Iver P. Oppedahl, 86, Boone/Westhaven. Born in Stanhope. BHS-58. His entire work career was spent as a welder for Quinn Wire and Iron Works. Iver was a longtime member of the Za-Ga-Zig Shriners of Pilot Mound. He enjoyed motorcycles. Survivors include his siblings, Jo Ann Tolyan and David (Janice) Oppedahl of Boone and Suzanne Oppedahl of Ames. Iver was cremated and no services are planned. 

OGDEN REPORTER VOWS CONTINUATION

       Here's the best news we've been able to report early this month........"the Ogden Reporter isn't going anywhere."

       Those were the latest words spoken, via facebook, by someone representing the Reporter.

        As indicated in the Korner earlier this month, Mid America of Hampton, owner of the Reporter and the Madrid Register News, plus papers in 14 other Iowa counties, was finally succumbing to the pressures all of print media seem to face these days, "dwindling readership and advertising revenue" They announced they were closing all the counties doors April first. 

         That decision, many miles away, seemed to "wrap up" the long history of the two Boone County newspapers who have kept their communities and area informed, connected and heard since early this century and beyond.

          HOWEVER, one important caveat has still breathed life into this devastating story. Their seem to be fighters in those communities who refuse this acceptance.

          Regarding the Reporter, facebook said, "plans are in place for the Reporter to continue publication" and similar whispers have been heard regarding the Register News.

          So, nothing official to report yet........other than some individuals or groups are fighting to "stay alive and continue serving." 

          Let's remain hopeful.

K-----K

            I, the Kornerman served as a Boone Little League/Babe Ruth baseball coach for 25 years. Many stories, large and small, from those experiences, seem to pop up quite often. Everything from guiding a group of young Boone men, 13-15 years of age, to participation in the 1962 Babe Ruth World Series in New Jersey to simple interactions with players that produced a laugh or, perhaps, even a tear or two.

            Freddy Hagaman passed the other day at 76 years of age....how can it be. A Boone High graduate with the class of 1968, Fred was one of those hundreds of young men who I had the pleasure of working with. But there's more.

            In all honesty, Fred was not a gifted baseball player. But, perhaps, just his presence and attitude were even more important to our team than singles or putouts. He, without doubt, was one of the most enthusiastic young men I ever coached......always willing, always able........just the type of teammate always desired.

            Jeff Courter, BHS-80, remembered Fred as an assistant coach on a Dodger youth team he was a member of. 

             I'll never forget......Fred came to practice one day with a different pair of baseball shoes and wasn't he proud. The smile still remains as he showed me his shoes with the promise......"now, I'll really be able to run fast."

              Just one of those moments that remain in the mind of a 91 year old after all these years.

K-----K

              The Korner's Chief Eastern Iowa correspondent Andy Anderson has a story to tell.

              He says, "In 1963, while attending Boone Junior College, I met a young man who was a "boarder" at the Boone Biblical college. His name was Ken Kamau and he was from Nairobi, Kenya. In 1997, I was checking in at a hotel in Milwaukee. The hotel receptionist was an African American with a British accent and in our discussion, I learned she was from Kenya Nairobi AND SHE KNEW KEN."

               Andy had no connection with Ken in more than 30 years and was told that he was teaching African history in Milwaukee. After a few telephone calls, he was talking to Ken, they eventually got together, and he gave Andy a wonderful gift from Africa. 

               Several years later, Andy felt compelled to try to contact his friend. However, it was discovered that Ken had died in 2014.

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

       Kenneth Lee Shafer, 84. Raised in Boone. BHS-60. ITT Technical Institute in Des Moines, 1962. Was a computer operator for Ruan Transport before a 44 years career as an IT Administrator for the D.O.T., retiring in 2007. Married Debra Zanker in 1987. Completed flying lessons in 1985. Enjoyed photography, sports, organizing class reunions and weekly coffee meetings with classmates. Ken found joy in service to others. Survivors include his wife, Debra, sister Elaine Nelson, sons Scott, Steven and Brent and daughters Sara and Emily. Twin sister Karen is deceased. An intimate family gathering is planned.

       Ross Ervin Williams, 76, Boone. Born in Boone. Grew up on the family farm. His parents, both deceased, were Boyce Williams Sr. and Doris Williams. At age 17, Ross joined the U.S. Army and was a Viet Nam vet who served over 20 years. He married Donna Williams and they eventually divorced but remained close friends for his lifetime. After service time, Ross was a semi truck driver in Arkansas and later returned to Iowa to care for his parents. He worked for Pinkerton Security until retirement. Ross enjoyed hunting and fishing as a youngster, as well as racing and boxing. He was also known to have handyman skills, rebuilding his garage and his bathroom many times. Survivors include his son, Ron, and former wife, Donna. Services in Missouri.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Christine Rosemary Cromwell, 70, Boone. Born in New York. Settled in Boone in 2020 after retirement. Was an avid reader and a member of Boone Sacred Heart Church. Survivors include a son, Christopher Cromwell, of Boone and three sisters. A memorial service will be held in Boone.     

        Raymond Leslie "Ray"  LeMaster, 89, Ames. Born in Ogden. The family moved to Boone in 1950. BHS-54. Married Shirley Munsen Mestdaugh in 1956. He became an immediate father, via Shirley's three-year old who he eventually adopted. Shirley and Ray also became the parents of son Jeff Jay and daughter Koreen Kay. As an Iowa Air Guard veteran, he served from 1956-64 and was activated during the Berlin crisis, serving a year in France. In 1959, he began a career with the John Deere Des Moines Works in Ankeny. He became a union rep, supervisor and finally, night shift supervisor until retirement in 1999 after 40 years. In 1994, his marraige to Shirley was disolved and in 1996, he married Anita Marie Laisure Wirtz. The couple made their home in Ames. Ray enjoyed golf, was a Hawkeye fan and loved his miniature schnauzers. Ray served as a volunteer firefighter, worked at a gas station and a salesman at J.C. Peterson Clothing store in his early years, He also served as a Sunday School teacher and Deacon at Boone's Central Christian church and religion was an important part of his life. Survivors include his wife, Anita, her children, Joshua, Courtney and Justin Wirtz and spouses and his children, Robin Gogerty of Madrid, Jeff and Koreen and their spouses. Services in Ames.    

       Dave Keithley, 82, Boone. Born in Oklahoma. Navy vet. Married Carol Kaufman Portkonak in Oklahoma in 1987. Dave worked and traveled 50 countries repairing electrical equipment and computers. He worked thirty days and then took thirty days off. He said he enjoyed getting paid yearly but only working six months a year. A VFW member, he enjoyed watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. Survivors include his wife, Carol, a step-son, Dan (Mary Jo)  Potkonak, a daughter, Erin Keithley, and two sisters. A private service will be held.     

        David Lee Tesdahl, 78, Marion. Born in Boone. Parents were David and Virginia (Clark) Tesdahl. Iowa City HS. Associate degree from Orange Coast College in California. Marine vet. Married Catherine Marie Madden in 1997. Retired from Nordstrom Direct A man of deep faith and unwavering pride in his Norwegian heritage. Very active religiously. Enjoyed sports and was an avid fisherman. Honor Flight member. Survivors include his wife, Catherine, and a sister, Suzetta Miller, of Hawkeye, IA. Was cremated. 

NEWS VETERANS RESPOND TO NEWSPAPER CLOSURES

        Occasionally, we say......"no news is".......but golly, I don't know anymore......it seems there's more bad than good news.

        Haven't got any more particulars to report on the recent Ogden Reporter/Madrid Register News story.  The proposed closure date has silently passed and there have been small rumbles of some one or groups as potential buyers. But no dramatic conclusions have been aired.

        Of course, the Korner does have access to a pair of local, long time communication experts who serve as our go-toos when it comes to such matters. So, let's lean to some of their thinking in this regard.

         I'm proud to call Richard Longworth, BHS-53, a classmate of mine. Dick has reached the pinnacle of journalistic success in many ways, including Pulitzer Prize nominations, during his long career, primarily with the Chicago Tribune and United Press International and now, the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. For 20 years, he served as the Tribune's Chief European Correspondent with work in 80 countries over five continents.

          We've been in contact and I gladly lean on his perspective on this issue. In fact, he informs me that he has forwarded our story to the Local News Initiative at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, Dick's alma mater.

           Richard wrote, "that group is doing the best scholarly work on the decline of local newspapers. They tell me, no fewer than 3,500 American Newspapers, mostly small town papers, have vanished in the past 20 years. The result is "news deserts," which they define as "counties with no locally based source of original news at grass-roots levels that meets community needs." Sounds like Boone County right now."

           He continued, "So what? What do we need newspapers for anyway? The usual answer is the keeping of an eye on local government and our tax dollars at work. But, I think there's an even more important reason. Local newspapers are a public diary, printing the every-day stuff that adds up to life in a real community. Good journalism is a conversation between reporters and readers and between the readers themselves, sort of a corner table in a cafe with the entire town listening. A newspaper chronicles a town's past and present. If you don't know where you've been or where you are, how can you decide, as a community, where you want to go?"

           In a nice conclusion to his remarks, Richard said, "there's no real replacement for dead newspapers. Kelley's Korner, or the like, is one that comes closest, a real conversation between you and your readers. You do such valuable work. Keep it up."

           Your editor replies, "the blood still flows and oxygen is fairly consistent BUT at 91, I wonder how much of my time remains and is there someone out there to "fill the gap" when needed?"

            Another good friend, Vern Modeland, BHS-50, adds, "here's another example of a way of life fading away. Or is it pushed away? Things fade from age, weakness or a lack of interest, but fade when there is no one left who cares or can push'em along. You've done that for the News Republican. You keep alive a twinkle of the good "old" Boone that had a vibrant downtown, a bustling community with a twinkle in its eye when we all, young and old alike, used to see Saturday nights downtown to be a humming place to park, walk and talk to each other. But, today's media for the lazy has taken over or is being steered to put face-to-face communications on the chopping block. More and more someone else is doing the thinking and pushing. Big entities with lots of money and lots of one mission, to do our thinking for us and making big seem better. Do the homework and it appears the only "Big" in history took something away to get there. However, it's the ants that keep the colony humming, not whatever you call the one at the top."

             Vern, of course, is another hero of mine, who took his great BHS education further than many with broadcasting work at KWBG, KFJB of Marshalltown, KJFJ of Webster City and then 10 years as an assignment news journalist for WHO radio and television in Des Moines. He added later work in marketing communications and photography for  Beech Aircraft and Gates Lear Jet in Wichita, communications for Silver Dollar City in Branson, Cox Medical Centers in Missouri and finally, at the Food and Drug Administration in Washington D.C..

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 CONNECED DEATHS

       Fred Hagaman, 76, Ames. Born in Boone. BHS-68 where he participated in cross country. Fred married Kathy James in 1992 in Minnesota. He started work as a semi-truck driver, became a custodian at Iowa State and Mary Greeley and then a stocker at HyVee. He was an active member of the Moose Lodge and a lifetime sports fan, playing for and managing various youth teams. The couple also enjoyed fishing at Don Williams. Survivors include his wife, Kathy, a daughter, Amy (Mike) Deaton, three step-children, Chris (Laura) Goodwin, Ben (Heather) Goodwin and Laura Sauceda, and a sister, Jan Price. Service in Boone.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Brenda Lee Steuerwald McMahon, 67, Boone. Born in Fort Dodge. Stratford HS-77. Married Steve McMahon in Boone in 1980. Started work at the Stratford Nursing Home but in 1979, she joined Fareway as a secretary and was, later, promoted to Assistant Buyer. She retired from Fareway in 2021 after 42 years of service there. Brenda was a loyal Hawkeye fan, a bowling team member and when the couple purchased a speed boat, she loved water activities such as skiing and fishing. With a positive attitude and kind heart, Brenda found the best in everyone. Survivors include her husband, Steve, daughters Erin (Brad) Kleinwolterink and Tory (Lane) McKay as well as sisters, Carol, Donna and Lynn. Services in Boone.

     Dietrich (Deke) Becker, 74, Moore, OK. Born in Oelwein. Former Ogden resident. Married to Dianna McCoy. He enjoyed fishing, car shows and was known for a strong work ethic and sense of humor. Deke worked as an engineer for the BAFS railroad. Survivors include his wife and three children. Services in Ogden with burial in Beaver.

     Timothy Joseph (Tim) McCoy, 75, Jefferson. Big St. Louis Cardinal fan. Attended DMACC, Boone Campus. Services in Jefferson. 

FACING THE FINAL CURTAIN

     Perhaps we knew it was coming.........but didn't know when.

     And now, it appears, the time HAS come. 

     Two longtime Boone County newspapers will apparently shut down their operations for good in very short order. In fact, the end of publication of both the Ogden Reporter and Madrid Register News will be this coming Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

      The Ogden and Madrid newspapers are not alone. Small town newspapers in 15 Iowa counties are affected. All of the affected newspapers have been guided by an Iowa based publishing company, Mid America Publishing of Hampton, which has announced its permanent closure.

      The Ogden/Madrid editor for those two publications has indicated that no one has expressed interest in buying them, thus, the difficult decision to conclude operations.

       Madrid editor Craig Schultz was quoted as saying, "there's still a chance if someone wants to come in on the 11th hour to buy the publications, it's possible. But, as it stands, this is the end." A few other newspapers are still hopeful of survival also, due to pending discussions of possible purchase.

       Many of these newspapers have been in operation for many years, some since before 1900.

       A Mid-America Regional Editor said that dwindling readership and advertising revenue have taken their toll on newspapers across the country. He said it was " a sad time for both our company and the communities we have served."

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       Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 928 South Jackson, Boone Iowa, 50036-4892. Phone number is 515-432-1530. Leave a message. To email stories/memories/comments/death notices........https:/kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

        

        

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Pamela Sue Blaskey Farris, 63, Des Moines. Born in Boone. BHS-81. Married Thomas Farris. Pamela spent many years working in the food industry as well as other jobs. She was known for a strong work ethic, determination and with a caring heart and gentle spirit. Survivors include her husband, Thomas Farris, a son, Jason Blaskey, her mother, Sharon Loehr Blaskey of Boone and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her father, Harold Blaskey, who passed away on February 6, 2026. COL in Des Moines    

        Karen Kay Anderson Lind, 83, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-60. Earned an Associates of Art Degree. Married Lyle Jim Lind in 1960. An active church member, she taught piano to many students in the Boone area and enjoyed working as an administrative assistant at Iowa State for over 15 years. Three children survive, Lisa, Jeff and Steve. A sister, Dianne, of Boone also survives. Services in Boone.       

       Glenda Jean Hall Monson, 89, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Webster City. Stratford HS-55. Married James Ernest Monson in 1955 in Stratford. The couple farmed north and south of Stratford. Jim passed in 2016. Glenda enjoyed watching the orioles and hummingbirds, caring for her flowers, decorating for the holidays and watching college sports.Survivors include three children, including Michael (Sandra) Monson and Kendra (Mark) Stumpenhorst both of Stratford. Son Steve also survives. A private family graveside service will be held.

GREAT NEWS....THEN, NO CBS NEWS?

       Great news for Boone, courtesy of Fareway.

       On Monday, the Iowa grocery legend, which began in Boone in 1938, broke ground on a 105,000 square foot expansion of the freezer building at the company's distribution center at the east side of town.

        Reynold's Cramer, BHS-87, CEO of Fareway Stores Inc. said, "this project reflects our continued commitment to remain the best in meat and grocery, by ensuring we have the infrastructure to support our current locations and future growth. This is also an investment in Boone and in our employees that call the Boone area home. Finally, we want to thank the Boone County Supervisors, City of Boone, and other local leaders for their support of this important project."

         It was explained that, "the freezer expansion would deliver substantial improvements, by nearly doubling pallet capacity, increasing pallet facings by 33-percent, improving functionality in dual temperature environments, adding additional dock space, and allowing current freezer space to be repurposed into additional storage space. The freezer expansion is also foundational for future investments in technology and automation at the Fareway distribution center."

         The project is expected to be completed in the summer of 2027 and will increase Fareway's distribution capabilities to accomodate up to 200 additional stores as the chain grows.

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         Some interesting news Korner viewers might have missed concerns the approval of a merger between communication giants, Nexstar and Tegna, that could result in some Iowa television changes.

          Thursday, March 19, the $3.5 billion deal was approved by the Federal Communications division and Department of Justice.

          Two well know Central Iowa television stations are involved. Tegna has been the owner of WOI-TV, channel five, formerly of Ames but more recently of Des Moines, while Nexstar has owned WHO-TV, channel 13 of Des Moines.

          This sale could, possibly, move the two stations into the same studio and produce various other changes. The new owners have pledged to increase the amount of local news and programs offered by these stations.

          Good friend and former Boone resident Vern Modeland, BHS-50, who, prior to retirement, had a long career in the broadcast field, which included radio and TV time at WHO and KWBG in Boone among others.

           Vern has his opinions about the changing broadcast landscape. He thinks broadcasting is on its way into the dark ages. He wrote, "podcasting has made everybody who has an ego into a specialist in something. And that thinly veiled attempt to put an end to AM broadcast radio in vehicles to get rid of the annoyance to them to have to clean up all this solid state dashboard stuff."

           What? No more AM radio in are cars?  

           To add to all this......CBS News Radio is set to cease operations on May 22, 2026, marking the end of nearly a century of service. The decision is said to be part of a restructuring effort, which includes significant layoffs.

           Reasons given for the closure are the difficult economic conditions affecting the media industry and the fact there has been a shift in how radio stations approach programming, making it unsustainable for CBS News Radio to continue.

          CBS News has had a rich history, having been established in 1927, and featuring notable journalists like Edward R. Murrow. The service has provided news updates to some 700 affiliate stations across the country. 

          No more CBS News breaks "on the hour" and etc. Change can be good......sometimes but, on occasion, sad news also.

K-----K

          I would be remiss if I didn't publicly thank all of you who were so kind in reminding me I'm getting older. My 91st birthday brought many kind comments in many ways. I started listing those that I had heard from in various ways.......but decided if I took the chance of listing responders, I would surely miss some. 

          So, simply.....thank you all so much and let's plan to do this again next March 18.

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

       Late Addition: Quentin C. Klinkefus, 81, South Fulton, Tenn. passed away December 11, 2026. BHS-62. He had retired from 24 years of service with the U.S. Navy. A COL will be held in Boone at a later date.       

       Kay Ava Ginter Wulf, 83, Altoona. Married Frederick Wulf in South Dakota in 1958. Earned a degree from DMACC, Boone Campus. The couple had moved to Boone in 1966 and Kay stayed until 2025 when she moved to Altoona. Three children survive, including Gary (Diane) Wulf and Bob (Denise) Wulf of Boone. Three sisters and two brothers also survive. A COL will be held in Boone.

        Sharon D. Savits, 83, Waukee. Grew up in Stratford, married Dennis Savits and the couple moved to Ogden. They eventually divorced. A daughter survives, as well as a son, Mike (Lisa) Savits of Ogden. A private family graveside is planned. Burial in Ogden.

         Patricia Peterson, 86, Jefferson. Two brothers survive, including Robert Peterson of Madrid. Two sons and a daughter also survive. A graveside service will be held. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Karen Kay Anderson Lind, Boone. BHS-60. Services in Boone.   

       Loren Edward "Ed" Mondt Jr., 86, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Boone. BHS-58. Earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Arizona in 1962. Iowa National Guard Vet.  Worked in the family business, Mondt Hotel and Restaurant. The original business was destroyed by fire and a new Mondt Townhouse was built. Ed remained  involved in that business until 1985. He retired in 2002. He was very active in the Boone Historical Society and Mamie Eisenhower Birthplace and enjoyed and contributed to local history and geneology his entire life. Survivors include first cousins John McPherson, Joyce Jensen, Pam Jones and Karen Johnson. A graveside service will be held.   

       Margaret Ellen Johnson, 86, Story City. Five children survive, including Mark (Tammi) Quillen of Madrid. Graveside service in Story City. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Laura E. McConkey Herrig, 92, Boone/Eastern Star. Born in Storm Lake. Married Fred Herrig in Omaha in 1949. Fred died in 1990. Laura always took pride in "looking her best" and in the 1980's and 90's, she worked at Marla's House of Larger Fashion. Eventually, she owned and operated Marla's House of Larger Fashion in Storm Lake before retiring in Boone. She became a well known door greeter at Walmart in Boone. Laura loved the outdoors, especially fishing, and she had a warm heart for animals. She and Fred were the parents of four daughters, including Judy, BHS-68, (Bill) Haberman of Spencer who survives. The deceased daughters are Barbara, BHS-69, Susan and Linda. Services in Boone.

       Charlotte Mae Anderson, 97, Boone/Eastern Star since 2019. Earned a GED in 1989. Married Ralph Anderson in 1947. Ralph passed in 2001. Charlotte was the head cook at the Imperial Inn Restaurant, then worked as a telephone operator at ISU. Retired in 1991. An active and faithful church member, she enjoyed cooking, baking, crocheting, floral arranging, reading, playing Bingo and Chinese Checkers. Survivors include a daughter, Alana (Lana) Russell of Boone, and two sons, including Darrell Anderson of Ogden. Services in Boone.

         Mary Margaret Neikirk, 80, Santa Fe, NM. Died January 14, 2026.  Born in Texas. BHS-64, where she excelled in academics and athletics. University of Texas in Austin and again excelled academically. Earned a B.S. in Physical Education. Taught at Brown University and then, earned a Master of Science degree at the University of North Carolina. Worked as a teacher/coach in Wisconsin and enrolled in the doctoral program at the University of Georgia and earned a Doctor of Education in P.E. in 1985. A lifelong learner, she studied gardening, horticulture, history, religion and learned Spanish and German. Moved to Santa Fe in 1983 and taught at Southwestern College and for various other programs. Mary loved animals and gardening while grappling with bipolar disorder most of her adult life. Four siblings survive and a COL is scheduled for May 2, 2026 in New Mexico.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Very late addition......Richard Young, 87, BHS-57, passed away February 12.        

       Michael James Lingelbach, 74, Boone. Born in Boone. Marine vet who proudly served as a bodyguard connected with the Apollo 14 mission. Survivors include his daughter, Micah (Parvez) Fausal, and a brother, Darrell Lingelbach, BHS-64.     

        Mark Alan Johnson, 73. BHS-71. Born in Yakima, WA. Grew up in Boone. Spent his career working in the sheet metal industry, contributing to the construction of the Seattle Space Needle and Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. His passion was found in the strings of a guitar. He was a man of few worries and many melodies. Easy going, with a laid-back philosophy, his life was a melody of hard work, family and music. Mark expressed much of his love through his cooking. Survivors include three daughters, Holly, Audrey and Mary. A COL will be held at Cedar Pointe in Boone.       

       Mary Theresa Uthe Wirth, 92, Gilbert/Bethany Manor, Story City. Born in Boone. Ames HS-51. Previously attended schools in Jordan, at Boone Sacred Heart and Boxholm. Iowa State Teacher's College grad and taught school in Colo and Gilbert. Married Vincent Wirth in 1957 and the couple farmed northwest of Gilbert. When Vince passed, Mary moved to Ames and worked in the Public Library. She also volunteered at Mary Greeley and Food at First. She enjoyed putting puzzles together and going for a ride. She also organized many family gatherings. Survivors include two sons, two daughters and her sister-in-law Kate Uthe of Boone. Services in Ames, burial in rural Gilbert.

       Evelyn May Nyguard Hovick, 96, Story City/Eastern Star in 2023. Married Alvin Hovick in 1947. She worked at Bourns in Ames, 1958-89. Three sons and two daughters survive. Services in Story City. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Kenneth Louis Graves, 92, Manning. Three children survive,  including Dean Graves of Stratford. Services in Manning.      

       Colleen Pepper Sparks, 73, Ogden/Stratford Care Center. Born in Boone. OHS-71. Earned a nursing degree from Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge. Married Brian Sparks in 1986 at the Arboretum. Worked at Woodward State Hospital and Iowa State before becoming an RN. Then, worked at the Evangelical Home in Boone, Madrid Nursing Home and Bethany Manor in Story City. Colleen loved sports and played softball and basketball in high school and continued playing in slow pitch softball leagues. Enjoyed sewing and cooking, was smart, quick-witted and had a great sense of humor and many, many friends. Boone area survivors are her sisters, Mary Pepper and Becky (Dan) Watson, and a nephew, Josh (Andrea) Clauson. A COL will be held in Ogden with burial in Beaver. 

       Thomas Eugene Friess, 70, Jefferson. Born in Kansas. Lived in Lake City early before the family moved to Jefferson. East Greene HS-74. Married Cindy McCoy in 1975 in Boone. Tom graduated from DMACC with the President's Award and a degree in Health Care Administration. During his work time, he aided farmers in the Rippey area, the Angus Elevator, Rippey Coop, Osmundson's and the Perry Water Works. He was a private pilot, enjoyed fishing, was an amateur radio operator and enjoyed trips to air shows and NHRA drag racing events. Tom studied the King James Bible and shared that study. Survivors include his wife, Cindy, sisters and brothers-in-law and many other relatives. Private family burial. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Paul Thomas "Pete" McIntyre, 74, Boone. Born in Boone. BHS-70. Pete was an  outstanding three-sport Toreador athlete, football, wrestling and track. He received all-state recognition as a football running back in both 1969 and 1970 and also participated in State Wrestling competition. The '69 football team tied Ames in the season opener and then won the remainder of their eight-game schedule. McIntyre attended the University of Nebraska on a wrestling scholarship but was injured and transferred to the University of Northern Iowa where he secured a teaching/coaching degree. He married Connie Martin in 1972 but they divorced and in 2002, he and Cristy Boyd were married at Don Williams Recreation area. After 38 years, Pete retired as an Administrative Law Judge for the State of Iowa. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching westerns, annual fishing trips to Canada and the movie, "Secondhand Lions." Survivors include his wife, Cristy, children Jeremy and Marty McIntyre; Michelle Daleske; Joy Davis; Dan and Tyler Boyd; Theresa Angle and a sister, Juli Murray. Services in Boone.     

       Timothy Raymond McBirnie, 58, Stratford. Born in Boone. While living in Arizona, Tim received his GED and then made the honors list via automotive courses at Central Arizona College.  Married Cheryl Robbins in Arizona in 2004. They divorced. From age eight to 16, Tim was an Iowa AAU Boxing Champion. After living in Arizona, Tim's family returned to Iowa., living in Boone. Tim enjoyed living close to his brothers, Joe and Eddie. Joe and wife Susie's baby, Macy, proved to be a spark for Tim to become a fighter again, a fighter for his health and well being, just as premature Macy was. Tim enjoyed Christian music. Survivors include his mother, Julie (Christensen) McBirnie, of Boone, and three brothers, including Eddie of Stratford and Joe (Susie) McBirnie of Boone. Services in Boone.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Allan L. Harris, 76. South Hamilton HS-76. Married Deborah Kruck of Boone. Allan's life was dedicated to his wife, family, his craft and his music. The couple owned and operated resort properties in Northern Minnesota and built Harris Painting and Wall Covering in Boone. Survivors include his wife, Deb, of Ames, a son and a brother. Service in Boone with a private graveside service later.

       Arlene Deloris Pretz, 97, Boone. Born in Pocahontas County. A member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Boone, she is survived by a son, Larry Pretz, and a daughter, Karen King. Burial at Bass Point Cemetery in Boone.

       Ron Eide, 92, Forest City/Waukee. Four children survive, including Rosanne (Daryl) of Boone. Burial at a later date.

       Jesse Micheal Murphy, 37, Grand Junction. Survivors include his parents, two daughters, including McKinley Murphy, of Ogden, two brothers and a sister. A COL will be held at Spring Lake Park. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Dona Jean Dusseldorp Van Hemert, 93, Boone/Westhaven. Lived in Pella, then Oskaloosa and finally, Boone, to live out her retirement years. Pella Public Schools. Dona shared four children, including Denny (Terri) Van Hemert, of Ogden/Boone, with Raymond Van Hemert. After her children were grown, she cleaned dorm rooms at Central College. She loved horses, had an appreciation of music and her piano and loved watching her favorite musical stars on the weekly TV shows. Dona's greatest legacy is the family she loved, especially all the children. Survivors include her four children, a brother and many grand children. Services in Boone.

        Robert John Knight, 89, Jefferson/Westhaven. Born in Boone. BHS-54. Robert worked for Skel Gas and for many years, operated the street sweeper for the city of Boone. He was a member of the American Legion, Ducks Unlimited and played in several area bands. He is survived by his life partner, Nelia Burkhart, two sons, two daughters, including Patti Boone of Boone and a step son. Graveside service planned in Boone County, followed by a COL in Boone.     

       Sharon Jayne Dunkelberger Nelson, 56. Born in Boone. Ogden HS-57. DMACC. Married Frank Nelson in 2022. Sharon cherished her faith, family, cooking and especially, her 11 grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, three children and two siblings.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

 
       Dennis Michael Pelleymounter, 78, Boone. Born in Osage. OHS-65. Earned a degree in drafting from NIACC in Mason City. Worked for an architectural firm in Mason City, followed by work for Oliver/White Farm Equipment. He returned to NIACC to earn an engineering degree while helping his dad with a flooring business. As an engineer, he worked for firms including Quinn/Besser in Boone. Married Vicki Jo McGhan in 1970 in Osage. Dennis was always very active in Boy Scouts and was a long time Knights of Columbus member. He also enjoyed fishing, woodworking and carpentry. Survivors include his wife and three sons. Service in Boone and graveside service in Osage.    

        Mary Elaine Settle Harringa, 72, Boone. Raised in Nevada. NHS-72. Boone Junior College and Elementary Education from Iowa State University. Married Merlyn Harringa in Nevada in 1975. The couple made their home in Boone. Mary devoted much of her life to serving others in partnership with her husband.She was a 4-H group leader and the co-Superintendent of the Rabbitt and Poultry programs. She played the piano and organ for area churches and served as a special education instructor for the Boone and Madrid school districts. Mary enjoyed sewing, crafting, camping, gospel outreach, visiting national parks, enjoying God's beautiful scenery and motorcycle riding. She also did voluntary work for her uncle's missionary organization. serving in Mexico and Central America. Survivors include her husband, Merlyn, and two daughters. A COL will be held later.

       Donna Malloy, 81, Carroll. Four sons survive including Rick (Sandie) Lebeck of Boone. Services in Jefferson. 

A NICE TRIBUTE TO A FRIEND

       I, the Kornerman, absolutely feel I must give a "shout out" to a long time great friend, Gary Long, BHS-73.

       Scanning the internet the other day, much to my surprise, I,  came across a tribute to Gary.

       What I discovered in my internet travels was a video that featured Joe Gibbons. He was one member of the Gibbons family, who became very well known for their success in the sport of wrestling. Brothers Joe, Jim and Jeff Gibbons won 10 state high school championships and had one runnerup finish in the late 70's and into the early 80's. The threesome had a combined state tournament record of 40 wins and one loss.

        Joe led the way with four state championships, two representing Ames High and two as a Waterloo Columbus entrant. As an Iowa State Cyclone, he became a two-time Big Eight Conference champion and in 1985, won an NCAA title.

         The video I witnessed featured Joe reviewing his wrestling career while speaking from the Waterloo Columbus wrestling facility.

          What caught my Boone eye was the fact he mentioned that his coaches there were Dennis Getz and Gary Long. In his younger days, Gary, himself, had been a pretty good wrestler, making a couple state tournament appearances as a Toreador and then competing in the sport at Coe College. He spent part of his career in education at Columbus.

          I immediately wondered if Gary was aware of this "notice." He was. I caught up with him at the Villages in Florida where he spends winter time. By phone, he felt very "humbled" by the reference from one of Iowa's greatest wrestlers.

          P.S. When we talked, Gary was enroute to a Detroit Tigers spring baseball training game WITH Pat Olofson, BHS-69, another former Toreador, who also escapes the Iowa winter with residence in the Villages.

          ONE MORE THING: Gary Long will return to Boone in a week or so to again fulfill an obligation he has enjoyed for a number of years. This will be the 49th consecutive YEAR he has worked in the statistics crew at the Iowa Boys High School State Basketball tournament. Yup, he tells me he's hoping to return for at least one more year....his 50th in 2027.  

K-----K

        Vern Modeland, BHS-50, is always a good resource for "the way things used to be" in Boonetown.In fact he noted that, "I'm now older than Boone history." 

        Reporting from his Ozarks destination, Vern wrote, "I had a flash, particularly about the ice skating that was the winter occupation with the then-old Fred Crary gliding along with hands folded behind him among those of us who packed the backed-up creek at McHose Park from first freeze to last, circa 1940's and 50's era."

        Referring to another mention we've made in the Korner recently, Vern had this to say, "the very first airport after World War II was on Division Street, just north of the big Ripley barn on the way to the city dump. It was a flying school started by a World War II returned flyer with his military bonus money. His name was  "Bud" St. John. I cut the very ample grass around the house he and his wife shared and helped out any other way I could. In return, I got my very first flight in any airplane and some early lessons. He had a green Piper J-3 and a yellow Piper L-4 that had been an observation plane for the Army in an earlier life. The airport featured a runway of pasture grass, not the fancy runways out there east of town now."

K-----K

       For some reason, I received a copy of a Boone News Republican sports page from many years ago that I found interesting. Unfortunately, I have no idea what year it was. But, right there, before these old eyes was a Kelley's Korner, which I have to assume was sometime between 1962 when the Korner was started and 2010 when we went strictly online. It appears to be from the late 60's.

      The main topics were an "I" Club meeting attended in Fort Dodge by Boone fans and some Toreador football talk. 

       But the real attraction was........"a Bon Appetite advertisement, chicken and noodles at 85-cents, baked swiss steak $1.00 and fried filet of Perch, 85-cents." 

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.