BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       
       Terri Burkhart McDonald, 68, Raymond IA. Born in Boone. Her parents were Layton (deceased) and Phyliss Carter Burkhart. After graduating from Iowa State, she worked for many years as a Materials and Logistics Manager. Terri married Michael McDonald in 2020 in Raymond. She was known for being selfless, creative, adventurous, loyal and with a dry sense of humor. A problem solver, she enjoyed the sunshine, riding motorcycles and quads, boat rides, traveling and crafting. Survivors include her husband, Michael, her mother, Phyliss Burkhart, and two siblings. A COL is planned for later. 

BROGAN AUSTIN CONTINUES TO EXCEL

       Once it got started.......it just kept coming. Success that is.

       The Kornerman is writing today about a trio of sometimes overlooked athletic events that our Boone High School athletes consistently basked in during the 2020's.

        Whether it was our water, great coaching by Hall of Famer Gary Achenbach and others, or just darn hard work, Toreador athletes in the distance running events during that time were a model of consistency.......earning numerous honors in statewide competition.

        First, a couple deserved mentions before the main focus of our story.

        Virgil Byerly, back in 1949, won the state class A 880-yard run, perhaps a forerunner to what could be that later Toreador success.

         Then too, Pete Kostelnick, BHS-2005, also deserves mention for his many years now of extremely competitive ultra-marathon feats on the world stage. He's been one of the best.

         But then we get to the crowded part.....the consistency of our Boone High program.

         In 2005, Logan Gonzales became the first BHS runner to become a state champion twice, winning both the 800 and 1600 class 4A championships. 

         In 2010, another two-time champion as Brogan Austin took both the class 3A 1600 and 3200 events. But, a few more paragraphs about him will be coming later. 

         In 2012 and 2013, Chandler Austin won the 3A 5,000 meter event and in 2013, he had also taken the 1600 meter run.

         It was also 2013 when Albert Meier won the 3A 3200.

         What a year 2013 was for those Toreador runners.

         In addition to those individual honors earned in the Spring season, Boone High, in the fall feature event, captured the class 3A State Cross Country title with individual runnerup Chandler Austin and Meier leading the way. Meier, individually, was actually a two-time runnerup.

         Other members of that state championship team were Jacob Runninghorse, Killian Toro and Jordan Murray.

         But, back to Brogan Austin who, collegiately, ran for Drake University.

         Now, based in Boulder, Colorado, Brogan is a member of a running team, Tinman Elite. The team's web site describes, "we are not a group, social movement, or track club. We are a team that pursues and cares about each other in pursuit of establishing ourselves as one of the most respected and recognized teams in the world."

         The team's goal is to raise the standard of elite distance running by training a wide range of successful athletes covering distances from 800m to the marathon. We work to bring out the best in ourselves, to inspire runners and make running accessible and relatable.

         Brogan is described on the site, "as one who has weathered the storm of ups and downs that running can bring more than most but his  staunch self-belief, insatiable work ethic and pure love for running have always won out in the end. After a tumultuous collegiate career, he quickly found himself running at an entirely new level. His newfound confidence and knack for late-in-the-race heroics were on full display at the USATF Marathon championships, where he stormed into the lead in the final few miles and never looked back.

          In his latest competition, Brogan, representing the team champion USA, finished ninth in the individual results in Ames, (that's right) Ames Spain. There were entries from 44 countries, including 147 men.

K-----K

         Regarding our recent talk about the Pufferbilly name, it was mentioned that Tolly Boyd, BHS-63, deserved credit for pursuing that name.  

         Now, Tolly's sister, Linda Boyd Bravard, BHS-61, has verified with her comment, "my sister, Tolly, has told me for years that she named Pufferbilly Days. So, I guess it's true."

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         The Korner pridefully continues to shout that viewers will find in our releases material, including numerous Boone and area death notices, that are "no-shows" from any other area news outlet.

         We love reporting the good news about our community and it's people AND those death notices that don't appear anywhere else. 

         We're always looking for news "tips" and more viewers.....so pass the word. It's all free for the looking.

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@gmail.com. 

 

 

            

         

         

          

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Elizabeth "Ann" Jordan Umbaugh, 75, Atlanta, GA. Born in Boone. Raised on a farm east of Boone. Her parents were Richard "Dick" and Kathleen "Kate" Pepper Jordan. BSH-69. University of Iowa grad. After college, Ann and her lifelong friend, Rita Rolfes, moved to Atlanta so Ann could pursue her 30-year career as a special needs educator. Ann and her husband, Peter Umbaugh, also became the parents of two children. She was a dedicated parishioner, volunteer and pet enthusiast. At church, she was a piano accompanist, interim choir director and member of the finance committee. She also worked as a volunteer for an animal hospital and Saint Vincent DePaul. She never forgot her Midwest roots and was a frequent visitor to friends and relatives in Boone and Lake Okoboji. Survivors include her husband, a son and two brothers, John (Marilyn) Jordan and Mike (Leslie) Jordan. Services will be held at a later date in the Atlanta area. 

       Kathleen "Kathy" R. Deal Boersma, 83, Boone. Born in Fort Dodge. Her parents were Bud and Viv (Snyder) Deal. BHS-61. She married Larry "Butch" Boersma in 1962. He died last January. The couple made Boone their home and Kathy worked at Archway. In 1994, they purchased the Damn Site Restaurant and moved to Fraser. For over 20 years, they wintered in Texas and in the spring, managed the kitchen at the Don Williams Golf Course. Kathy loved crocheting, cooking, bowling, coloring and camping. When their two daughters were growing up, the family would camp at various spots all over Iowa every weekend of the summer with the camp club, "The Weekend Wanderers." Survivors include two daughters, Kelle Cook and Chris Duncan, two sisters, Donna (James) Fyte and Sheila (Dave Madden) Gibbons and two brothers, Ted (Lynn) Deal and Donnie (Dawn) Deal. Services in Boone, burial in Ogden.

      Barbara Lynn Venema, 65, Boone. 

PRIDE THAT WILL NOT DIE

       It shows........

       They've still got IT. 

       That memorable 1976 Boone High School Toreador football team boasts an unending pride in their accomplishment/s. An overall record of 8-1 and the first BHS football championship in fifty years.

       But, there's much more to this story..........

       That pride we mentioned has lingered for ten, twenty, thirty, forty and now fifty years, never to be forgotten, even as time has passed amidst good times and bad, through various ups and downs and many memories which, oftentimes, yield much too easily.

       But at least a portion of this group was determined to not "let go" and an idea erupted into an explosion few could possibly see coming. A fifty year reunion.

       Sure, 1976 was the year, but also remember there were participants from a year or two prior and after  that were just as important to this team's success.

       Here's the astounding result. Of this 36 man team, at least 22 have said, "I'll be there." Three of that original 36 are deceased and two others are battling serious health issues. So, 22 of 31 is quite an impressive number of attendees for its fifty-year celebration. Again.....we call that pride.

       Coaches Harris and Bud Smith are deceased but there will be family representatives on hand, as well as five cheerleaders.

       ADM (Adel) will be the 2026 Toreador football opponent on Friday night at Goeppinger Field at 7 p.m. and the '76 team members will be attending and introduced at halftime of the game.

       And, starting at 9 p.m., later that evening, lots of stories, maybe some unknown until today, will be told as the group gathers at the Adobe Restaurant.

       Saturday will be a big day.....the Boone County Historical Society will host the group starting at 10 a.m.. There are numerous exhibits highlighting the team's success and coffee and cookies will be available. 

        But the main thing will be the reuniting of great memories of fifty years gone by and an opportunity to see many friends, perhaps many that have not been available since those days on the gridiron fifty years ago.

        P. S. This is NOT a private party. It will be assumed  that many, many old friends from those school days of the 70's or more will join in the festivities. They're all welcome.

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

       Theodore "Ted" Hugh Welch Sr., 79, Iowa Vets Home/Marshalltown. Born in Mason City. Raised in Boone. His parents were Frank and Juanita Welch. BHS-65. Air Force vet. In 1968, Ted was born again and saved by the Lord Jesus Christ. After military service, Ted attended Baptist Bible College in Missouri, earning a graduate of Theology degree. In 1979, he was ordained into Pastoral Ministry and began serving various churches until his retirement in 2017. He enjoyed fishing, photography, collecting antiques and using his snow blower. He is remembered for his fearless evangelism, patience, gentleness and love for Oreo cookies and fried chicken. Survivors include his wife, Janet, a son, Matthew, a daughter, Heather Kern, and step-sons Ronald (Joanne) Garvey, Jeffrey (Tami) Garvey and Thomas (Teresa) Whiteman. There will be a graveside service in Sparks Cemetery with a COL planned later. 

       Philip Darren Jensen, 71, Madrid. Born in Boone. His parents were Theodore "Teddy" and Colleen Jensen. MHS-84. He attended DMACC's Auto Collision Repair Program. In 1990, he became a maintenance worker for the DOT, doing roadwork, plowing snow and finally, electrical work. Due to his illness, cancer, he reluctantly retired in 2025 after 35 years of dedication. He loved the trips to the family cabin in Clear Lake in his early years. He worked for Gene Morning at Madrid Body and Fender and then Dave Anderson at Dave's Garage. Classic cars were his passion. He had many cars and was a proud member of the Pacers Car Club in Madrid. Cruising was his favorite hobby, as well as camping at the Iowa State Fairgrounds for the Good Guys Car Show. He and Linda dated for six years before their wedding in 1998. The couple made a home for many fur-babies, dogs, cats and horses, through the years. Darren was a great music fan, the Kansas City Chiefs and the State Fair foods. He was a resilient person, learning to walk again after meningitis at age 18 months and was tested a second time due to a work accident at age 45 which required multiple surgeries, long hospitalizations and much physical therapy. Survivors include his wife, Linda, sisters Piper and Polly, a brother, Dave, and some beloved pets.

WHO NAMED "PUFFERBILLY DAYS?"

       Before another year, it's 50th, (oh, my gosh) of  Pufferbilly ends, let's try to answer a question proposed by Thomas Hokel, BHS-65. 

      Tom said he and his brother, Gary, Stanhope HS-60, were reminising about the event and Gary wondered, "who came up with the name, "Pufferbilly Days?"

       Tom admitted he had no idea but Gary answered, "Tolly Boyd, Gary's wife's best friend, Carol Hurty, BHS-63."

        Curious, Tom said he couldn't confirm that with an internet search but thought it must have been a joint agreement with the Chamber of Commerce.

        Gary thought it may have come from the Four Preps rendition of the song, "Down by the Station."

        "Down by the station, early in the morning. See the little puffer bellies, all in a row. See the station master pull the little handle, Chug, Chug! Toot, Toot! Off they go."

        Anyway, Korner viewers can tell we're grasping for an answer. We simply don't know. DO YOU?

        On another subject.

        Robert Atherton, BHS-65, referred to our recent talks about the railroads in Iran during World War II and said he and Tom Hokel talk often about trains."He's an absolute expert on trains and his  recent mention of working at Percival's reminded me of my "worst" job one summer on the railroad.

        Bob described, "One summer, Merle Long got Charlie Lind and I jobs on the section. Two-fifty an hour, big money. We drove every morning to Eagle Grove and worked with a "chain gang" of laborers who lived in a boxcar. We shoveled ballast under a tamper all day long in the Iowa heat. Needless to say, we didn't last and our return to college and Lawson's grocery as a sacker was never a problem. I have a feeling that your entire Boone network has similar life changing jobs to remember. Thanks for your efforts....we all enjoy staying connected to our home town."

K-----K

       Mark Campbell, BHS-67, is still in a funk about this AM radio situation.

       Mark, a former KWBG colleague of mine wrote, "the stations who will survive this MUST program for the community, not simply keeping the station's programming going. Yes, much of the satellite-driven shows are interesting, but there's nothing like local info. I used to listen to a station from Russellville, KY with local information. One segment featured a car dealership with the announcer chatting with a salesman. Do you remember Jimmy Wester of Wester Furniture? Locals enjoyed that.....as well as hospital admissions and dismissals. Ah, no longer possible."

        The Kornerman adds, "at 11 a.m. each morning Signa Shaler would report ALL the local news in great detail and, if I remember correctly, Wester Furniture was the sponsor of that report."

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

 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Alta Smith Soderstrum, 95, Luther/Eastern Star. Born near Perry. Washington Township school - 1948. Married Vernon Soderstrum in Luther in 1960. Vern passed in 2020. The couple farmed and had an egg laying operation north of Luther. They also ran Vernie's Egg and Produce from their farm and  included sweet corn and pumpkins. Alta was a faithful church member and enjoyed the fellowship of neighborhood clubs, the Las Amigas and the Worthwhile Birthday Club. Alta was an excellent cook, baker, enjoyed reading and loved the outdoors. Alta's life was filled with love, laughter and a profound impact on all those fourtunate enough to know her. A daughter, Cheryl (Mark) Randall, and a son, Kurt (Peg) Soderstrum survive. Service in Boone and Squire Boone Cemetery.   

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Mary Marlene Mindeman Pentico, 74, Boone. Born in Des Moines. Her parents were Nadine Eckley Williams and Albert Mindemann. Grew up in Boone surrounded by horses. She took care and showed horses (mainly Half-Arabians) and competed in numerous local, regional and national events. Her national spotlight was in the Half-Arabian Park Horse Division. In 1979, she rode Cognac to a top ten finish at the U.S. National Arabian and Half-Arabian championship in New Mexico. Mary started work in cosmetology but eventually started working for the USDA with the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. In 1985, Mary married Doug Pentico and the couple spent many years riding horses on the trails around Boone and traveling to Palm Springs and Venice Beach. Doug passed away after the couple had been married for 36 years. A son, Josh Tracy, (BHS-93) of Boone survives. Mary always followed his various sporting events and celebrated his hunting and fishing successes. A brother and two step-sons also survive. A COL will be held in Boone.       

       Donald W. Johnson,  93, Ames/Accura Health Care. Born in Ogden. His parents were Lester and Ruth (Dahlberg) Johnson. Ames HS. Iowa State and the University of Iowa where he studied to be a teacher and coach. U.S. Army vet. Married Janet Ihlene Johnson who survives. A daughter and step-son also survive. Graveside services in Ames.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Bonnie Nelson Sorenson, 82, Pilot Mound. Born in Fort Dodge. Her parents were Virgil and Alta (Cibert) Nelson. FDHS-62. Iowa State veterinarian labs. Married Ronald "Larry" Sorenson in Fort Dodge in 1962. She worked as a Vet Technician for James Lawton DVM and also artificially inseminated cattle, horses and hogs. She was later employed by Lundberg Seed Farm near Pilot Mound/Boxholm and Gates in Boone. She retired in 2008. Bonnie enjoyed horseback riding and made western shirts for her family. She was inducted into the 4H Hall of Fame, served on the Boone County Fair Board, the Youth Committee and was a Boone County Fair Parade Marshal. She enjoyed cooking and baking and making wedding cakes. Three children survive, Troy and Trent Sorsenson and Cindy Davisson, all of Pilot Mound. Six siblings, including Barb (Jay) Williams of Pilot Mound, also survive. Services in Pilot Mound.    

       James E. Casey, 69, Ames, formerly of Boone. Born in Boone. His parents were James and Gwen (Wilcox) Casey. He worked as a semi-truck driver for Des Moines Asphalt, Manatts and over the road. James married Vicki Gibson in 1991. She passed away in 2018. James owned numerous Harley's and enjoyed riding them and driving fast cars. Survivors include three sons, Mark and Matt of Madrid and Dan (Lynn) of Nevada. Also surviving are a sister, Jo Ellen (James) Wells of Boone and brothers, Chris (Jo) Capps of Ogden and Edward. Service in Boone.

       Joan LaVonne Hicks, 81, Madrid. Born in Perry. Worked at the Woodward Resource Center for 40 years. In recent years, Madrid became a special place as she truly flourished there. She became an active part of the Madrid Home and served as President of the Resident Council. Service in Perry. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

         David Owen Hadaway, 72, Lewisville, Tx. Born in Story City. BHS-72. Grew up on a family farm and played football for the Toreadors.His parents were Willard and Helen (Gibson) Hadaway. David moved to Texas and worked in construction for Camino Construction for 35 years before retiring. Five siblings survive, Richard (BHS-68) (Teresa) Hadaway; Susan (BHS-69) Franey; Catherine (BHS-74) (Thomas) Misfeldt; Teresa (BHS-81) Cummings and Joseph (BHS-83) Hadaway. A COL in Texas and burial later in Iowa.      

        Richard Larson, 92, Iowa Falls/Scenic Manor. Born in Mason City. BHS-52. Iowa State Teachers College (now UNI) 56. Army vet. Married Ruth Buechler. After discharge, the couple moved to Mitchellville where he taught science and coached football, track, girls basketball and softball. In 1968, they moved to Iowa Falls where Richard taught biology, physiology, anatomy and ECC Nursing at Ellsworth Community College and was the track coach. Dick was instrumental in starting the Ellsworth women's basketball and softball programs. He coached those sports for 10 years and in 1977, his softball team won the National Championship. In retirement, the couple wintered in Florida and took many trips to Europe. Dick loved golf and was a member of the Elks, Lions and Jaycees. Two daughters survive. Services in Iowa Falls.      

       Adeline Evelyn  Frodl Wagner, 84, Ogden/Friendship Haven, FD. Born in Wisconsin. Newman Catholic HS-60. Married Alois T. Wagner in Wisconsin in 1961. The couple lived in several Iowa communities and traveled throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South Korea and Japan.She enjoyed quilting, embroidery, painting, crafts, hiking, cross country skiing and traveling. She was involved in numerous sewing groups in different states and loved playing games. A sister and five children survive. Services in Ogden.

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Sandy Ann Sawyer, 72, Boone. Born in Fort Dodge. Twin Rivers/Bode HS-72. Was class president. Army vet. Returning to Iowa after service, she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Buena Vista college. She taught at Boone Sacred Heart for several years and received the Good Shepard Award given to a school employee who is admired, respected and held in high regard by her peers. Her faith was very important and she did lots of volunteering, especially at two food banks in Boone. She was an avid follower of the Cubs and Cyclones. Survivors include a sister, two brothers and several nieces and nephews. Services in Boone and Livermore Iowa. 

        Nicholas "Nick" Blackburn, 77, Jefferson. Born and lived his life in Jefferson. Worked at several jobs. His last job was at the Fareway Warehouse in Boone. He loved fishing and one of his favorite spots was a farm pond near Ogden. Services in Jefferson.

       Jacob Eli Parnell, 21, Jefferson. Born in Boone. His parents are Aimee Reeser Parnell and Jason Parnell. Greene County HS-23. Services in Jefferson.

       Lillian M. Hughes, 87, Versailles, Mo. Survivors include a son, David Hughes, of Boone. A COL will be held later. 

HOT STUFF

       About the time you think the discussion is over......you find out it isn't.

       Tom Hokel, BHS-65, has provided additional information about the heat in the Iranian desert. His source is a document by HistoryNet.

        This discussion began when Robert Atherton, BHS-36, who spent a four-year stint in Iran in military service during World War II, said something about, "guys working in heat that hit 170 degrees and even better in the sun." That descriptive quote came from a publication, the U.S. Weekly.

         Jim Pratt, BHS-71, chimed in that the highest temperture ever recorded, worldwide, was the 134 degree mark in Death Valley California on July of 1913. Second place went to a location in Tunisia. That figure was supported by Wikipedia and others.

         Following is a portion of the new info Hokel discovered via HistoryNet.

         Summer shade temperatures in southern Iran regularly surpassed 120F to 130F with historical weather stations recording extreme highs near 168F. Metal bodies of locomotive absorbed the desert sun, turning the cab structure into a literal oven before the engine was even fired up.

        The massive uninsulated steel wall of the boiler inside the cab radiated intense, constant heat directly at the engineer and fireman. Every time the fire door was opened to shovel coal or adjust oil-firing, a blast of heat reaching over 2,000F hit the crew directly.

         While moving at speed created a breeze through the open cab windows, crawling up steep desert grades meant slow speeds, trapping stagnant, superheated air inside the workspace.

         The heat was so debilitating for Allied train crews along the Trans-Iranian Railway that military authorities largely shifted heavy train runs to nightime hours to prevent heatstroke and equipment failures.

         Tom concluded, "ya, our WWII soldiers were some tough cookies."

        P.S. He added, "I worked five summers at Percival Manufacturing in the "Plant Growth" section on the sides of the main assembly line. A few times, my workstation was near the end of the oven opening, where refrigeration sides and panels were sprayed and baked. One afternoon my boss came over and showed me a temperature gauge.....it read 135F. I don't know how we worked in those temperatures.." 

        Loren Frazier, BHS-58, summarized this entire discussion pretty well. He said, "not that it matters, but when its hot, its hot."

K-----K

        Regarding our recent blurb about AM radio, Vern (BHS-50) wrote, "thanks for keeping the AM radio situation alive. I hope you have stirred others to be aware of the circumstances too. On the financial side, I'd hope thinking about it will stir our less vocal and active friends into action. On the local side, that means to support their "home town" stations by feedback to advertisers who support its very existence. I'd hope too that attention would stimulate station owners to see to more aggressive programming (and pay) which could lead them back to those Golden Days of AM radio when The Shadow knew what to do."

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

       Carla Jean Menough Alban, 91, Orland, Ca. Born in Boone. Her parents were John and Marie Menough. Attended school in Boone. BHS-53. Married Ron Alban in 1954. In 1956, the couple moved to Orland, Ca. Carla had a strong faith, worked at a library, loved to garden, sew, craft, bake, play cards, read and go to the Opera. However, RVing was what she loved most. Survivors include three children, Sherry, Brian and Brenda, and two brothers, Gerry Menough, BHS-57, and John Menough, BHS-67. Preceding Carla in death, among others, were sisters, Judy Menough, BHS-63, and Karen Menough, BHS-55, and brother, Ron Menough, BHS-61. Services in Orland.

SOME EXPLANATION OF THE AM RADIO CRISIS

        Some time back in the Korner, Vern Modeland, BHS-50, and Mark Campbell, BHS-67, had shown their disdain for the story that continues to erupt about the demise of AM radio. Both, of course, have experience in that type of communication and simply "aren't likin' that continuing talk" about their old gigs.

        They, of course, are not alone. Many long-time listeners and "old-timers" are deeply upset by the rapid closure of AM radio stations because these frequencies serve as an irreplaceable lifeline for emergency information, local news and community connection.

       Unfortunately, there are legitimate concerns for these closures and, of course, money, money, money is one of the main evils. Hundreds of AM stations are suffering from severe economic pressures and declining ad revenues as well as the impact created by interference issues from all of these modern devices, even such as electric vehicles.

       Being ignored are several positives that AM frequencies supply, information that was needed and supplied. Perhaps most important is the fact that local AM stations are the soul of many communities, particularly farm towns and isolated frontier areas. 

       This community bulletin board provides local crop pricing, high school sports coverage, local obituaries and weather reports all tailored to the exact area.

       Unlike FM signals or cellular data, AM radio waves travel incredible distances by bouncing off the atmosphere, especially at night. This allows a single transmitter to cover an entire region, reaching people who are completely cut off from other networks.

       In severe storms, floods, or grid failures, cell towers and internet routers routinely fail. AM transmitters are heavily armored with backup power, making them the primary source for emergency broadcasts and severe weather updates. 

       AM has, also, historically, been a low cost haven for foreign language programming, religious broadcasts and talk formats that streaming platforms largely ignore.

       Automakers are increasingly removing AM radios from new electric vehicles due to electromagnetic motor interference. For older drivers, the dashboard AM dial is a decades-long habit that is deeply ingrained in their daily commute or long distance travel routine.

       So, what's the end game here? As my dear mother used to say, "wait and see." 

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 COMMUNITY DEATHS

       Marilyn J. Davison, 100, Mason City/Westhaven.

       Paul Nicholas Franetovich, 84, Shawnee, OK. Survivors include a daughter, Lori (Roger) Weyhrich, of Boone. Services in Shawnee.      

       Charles "Chuck" Robert Linden, 94, West Des Moines. Earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota and a master's degree in health care administration from the University of Iowa. Married Judith "Jude" McNabb in Cedar Rapids in 1958. Devoted his entire career to hospital administration, serving communities in Cedar Rapids, Superior, Ws,, Boone and Des Moines. Retired in 1997, after a career marked by thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to improving health care. After 32 years in Des Moines, the couple spent the last eight years in West Des Moines and much of each winter in Arizona. Chuck was always active in the Iowa Hospital Association, enjoyed tennis, sailing, serving on a hot-air-balloon chase crew and family trips to the Boundary Waters. Survivors include his wife, Judith, and his three children, Todd, BHS-80; Erika, BHS-82, Ann(Randy) Smith  and Teresa, BHS-84, (Mark) Hinricks. A COL is scheduled for West Des Moines.

       Robert Wesley Hayden, 83, Oregon City, Ore. Born in Ida Grove. Coast Guard vet. Earned a degree in electrical engineering and a masters at Iowa State. Married Alice and the couple settled in Boone as his new wife taught high school math while Robert finished his education. Moved to Portland after graduation. Survivors include his wife, Alice, two children, Christine Jones and Debra (Rick) Carino, and a sister.

       Mary Francis (McCollum) Shearer, 95, Ames. Was a resident of the Boone Eastern Star Home. No services schedued. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Loren Frazier, BHS-58, from over Council Bluffs way has chipped in with some comments regarding the discussion of all-time record temperatures recorded.

       He says, "Not that it matters....but when it's hot, it's hot. I remember Larry Gibbs, BHS-60, who was an Air Force member stationed in India telling about working on planes on the runway and how hot that duty was. I think it depends on where the temperature is taken, how far above the surface of the ground. We both know that touching a car sitting in the sun can burn fingers even though the rest of the body does not burn. If Atherton was reporting the temp on or near a hot surface, it might have been 170 degrees. A few feet above that surface its going to be cooler. Our national weather bureau bases their local temperature on readings taken from Omaha's Eppley Airport where there's plenty of asphalt and concrete and their reading is always higher than in Council Bluffs. As they say in real estate....location, location."

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       Kenneth Eugene Thomas, 81, Sac City. There are five surviving step-children, including Owen (Tasha) Lasher of Boone. Services in Sac City.

       Jeffrey David Rule, 58, Waterloo. Born in Boone. His parents are William and Jacquelin Brown Rule. His mother, Jacquelin, survives. Services in Waterloo. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

       In a recent post from Bobby Atherton, BHS-65, he told of his father's four-year deployment with the U.S. Army in Iran during World War II.

       In describing some of the conditions faced by our military at that place and in this time, Bob Senior, BHS-36, stated, "working in heat that hit 170 degrees and better in the sun." That quote and others was picked up by a publication....The Army Weekly.

       Jim Pratt, BHS-71, didn't think that was quite right. He said that the highest temperature ever recorded was the 134 degree mark in Death Valley California  on July of 1913. That's 56.7 celsius. Number two on the list was 55 celcius recorded in Tunisia and those figures are supported by Wikepedia and others.

       Anyway you describe it......it was d...HOT.

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       Gary Albaugh, 51, Boone. Born in Guthrie Center. GCHS-95. Army vet. Moved to Boone after discharge and worked as kitchen manager at the Boone Country Club. Later, he began a career with Fareway as a receiver in the cooler area. Married Jenny Lane McCloud at Camp Hantesa in 2002. Gary enjoyed weightlifting, bowling, attending Wrestlemania and playing bass guitar. He was a talented artist who especially enjoyed creating portraits. Survivors include his wife, Jenny, his stepmother, Laura Albaugh, his parents-in-law Brad and Dawn McCloud and seven siblings. Services later. 

       Hazel Buffington Lease, 98, Grinnell. Born in Kansas. Was a Navy wife. Earned a B.A. in Education at the University of Rhode Island, followed by a Master's Degree in Learning Disabilities from Iowa State. Married Garland Simpson Lease in Fort Madison in 1946. After Garland retired, the couple lived in Boone where Hazel established a Learning Disabilities program. In retirement, she continued to teach reading for adults as a volunteer. Three children survive, including Linda (Paul) Millis of Boone. A memorial service will be held in Grinnell. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Don Wright, 89, Jefferson/Eastern Star. Three children survive including Kelly (Mark) Olson of Boone. A private burial at a later date.       

       Gary Sherman Clark, 90, Ames. Formerly of Roland and Boone. Born in Boone. BSH-54. Started  work with his uncle, parttime, at Duffy's Appliance. National Guard and U.S.Air Force vet. Married Mary Elizabeth Adams in Racine, WS in 1963. Gary held various jobs in management and sales and retired from the Iowa State University Bookstore Textbook Department. Gary enjoyed coaching Little League, drawing, reading, listening to talk shows and especially following Cyclone sports. Above all, he was filled with a renewed faith in God, the center of his life. Survivors include a daughter, Catherine (Jeff) Boman, a son, Dave (Missy) Clark and a sister, Joanne Hansson of Boone. Services in Boone. 

       Sharon Steadman, 85, Jefferson. Six children survive, including LeRoy Jr. Steadman of Boone. Services in Jefferson. 

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Gregory Alan Evenson, 69, Boone. Born in Mason City. Worked for the Chicago Northwestern Railroad since 1976. Started as a brakeman, worked up to Engineer, and later to Director. He retired in 2019. Greg enjoyed outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing, He also enjoyed motorcycling, becoming a member of several bike clubs and taking part in various charitable riding events. Survivors include a daughter, Amy (John) Patterson, a son, Joshua (Sadie) Evenson, grandchildren and a sister, Carolyn Smit. A private family burial will be held later in Mason City.      

        Robert "Jim" James Snider, 91, Boone. Born in Madrid. Napier HS-53. Married Carol Lou Springer in 1953. Carol died in 2004. National Guard vet. Jim was an entrepreneur, owning Snider Logging Co. for over 40 years. He worked closely with Bill and Billy Thorp at Thorp Sawmill, logging and clearing land all over Iowa. In 2006, he married Sue and the couple enjoyed traveling and feeding the wildlife that would congregate nightly at their homestead. Jim enjoyed fishing in Canada, bowling in Madrid, snowboarding in Texas and Arizona, playing cards, specifically pitch, and dancing. He'll be remembered by his family and many others he touched. He was known as a great friend, mentor and neighbor. Survivors include his wife, Sue, sisters Wanda (Mark) Nord and Norma (Denny) Johnson, daughters Shawna (Ron) Kilstrom and Cristy McIntyre and Sue's children Mandy and Justin. A private family  graveside service will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery.    

        Ronette Alane Adams Bonnell, 66, Boone.Born in Boone. BHS-79. Her parents were John and Lila 
Adams. She attended PCI Academy and opened her own in-home hair salon, a 40-year investment. She had an eye for gardening and floral arrangements, loved attending community events, rooting for the Hawkeyes, enjoying music, riding motorcycles and cooking enough food to feed a village. Best of all, she loved being a mom. There were seasons that tested her in ways most people never saw, but Ronette met them with grit and grace, never losing herself in the process. She loved boldly and faced life head-on. Her children, Johnna (Jason) Toth, Adam (Alexia) Bonnell and Austin Bonnell survive. Services in Boone.

        Martha "Hannie" Anne Javellana, 70, Boone/Westhaven. Born in Florida. Miami Beach Sr. HS-74. Earned an Associate in Science Degree from DMACC. An avid fan of the Miami Dolphins, Miami Hurricane and Miami Heat. A bird watcher, she enjoyed Pokemon Go stops, Prairie Meadows, watching baking shows, Bible studies and music documentaries. Four children survive, two of Des Moines, one from Arizona and John Javellana of Woodward. A COL will be held at Westhaven.      

        Claudia Marie Fisher, nee Mattos, 94, Colo. Was the Colo Chapter President, held state office and was an Eastern Star Home Board Member. 

BOONE AREA RAILROADERS SERVED

       Iran? 

       Received some reminders of how fast time flies and how changes develop.

       Bob (Bobby) Atherton, BHS-65, recently dug through some of the informative memories of what his dad, Bob Sr., BHS-36, and many others endured during their World War II service.

       The elder Bob entered the military with 100 other guys from Boone County and many ended up in a military Railway unit in Iran for what resulted in a four-year tour there.

       As a Railway Operating Battalion, they hauled lend lease arms, trucks and planes across the desert and supplied the Soviet Union's effort to stop the Nazi's east front.

       Think of that now. 

       Iran hosting U.S. forces, including Boone railroaders, for a long period of time to help the Soviets battle the Nazi's. Remarkable.

       Several pictures and more detailed information about this U.S. service, including maps, was part of the information Bobby provided.

       To say the least, conditions for the soldiers were barely short of intolerable. Soldier Bob described some of it.......crammed in tents with eleven other guys, working in heat that hit 170 degrees and better in the sun, battling winter rains and mud and being rewarded with goat stew. Bob Sr. said, "after 21 consecutive mess kitfulls of goat stew, GI rations arrived and we got some honest to gosh Spam. Life was picking up." 

       The supply route from Iran to Russia was no picnic either. Some 300 trucks plodding along at 12 to 18 miles an hour through soft dust. It was defined as a "camel trail through the desert, unsurfaced, unfinished road partially hacked out of the mountains." 

       Despite all this adversity, these soldiers of the Persian Gulf Command, including more than its share of railroad men, provided almost 4.5 million tons of vital lend lease supplies to Russia. 

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       Worldwide Korner headquarters are still located in Boone, Iowa, 50036-4932. Telephone number is still 1-515-432-1530. Leave a message. To  email your stories/memories/comments/death notices......https:/kelleyskorner1@blogspot.com. 

 

        

BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

       Barbara Ann Wills McKelvey, 83, Ames. Born in Boone. BHS-61. Her parents were Sterling and Eline Wills. The family lived in several communities, including Boone. Barbara enjoyed music, movies, travel, Cyclone sports and was a devoted church member. Survivors include three children and a brother, Barry Wills, BHS-58, of Madrid. A COL will be held in Ames.