BOONE/AREA CONNECTED DEATHS

        Lee William Meyer, 74, Boone/VA Hospice Center/DM. Born in Iowa Falls. IFHS-70, where he wrestled and was an FFA member. Navy vet. He married Debra Mae Cook in 1971. After Naval service, Lee worked for Rockwell Collins Avionics for 37 years, starting as an electronics technician, then, an international avionics trainer, followed by being a lead technical writer. He retired in 2014 and the couple moved to Altoona. In 2016, they moved to Boone to be closer to family. Lee and Deb were foster parents to 11 children for six years. He was an Assistant Boy Scout Leader, loved camping, competed in dog and horse shows and was a licensed official for registered horse shows across the midwest. He was active in church and enjoyed traveling. He was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2010. Survivors include his wife, Deb, his two children, including Melissa (Coltrane) Carlson of Boone, five siblings and his service dog. Service was held in Ames.  

        Lorraine Joyce Madden, 82, Stratford. Born in Boone. Her parents were Woodrow (Woody) Donald Cox and Alice Bernice Staley. BHS-62. She married Darwin Madden in Boone in 1964. The couple made their home in Boone and later, in Stanhope. Darwin died in 2024 and Lorraine moved near her daughter, Danielle outside of Stratford. For 15 years, Lorraine worked at the Whistle Stop Cafe in Boone and then, 15 years at the Iowa State Dining Hall. She loved to cook and hosted many holiday meals at her home. Three daughters survive, Deana (BHS-86) Williams, Danielle (BHS-93) (Brian Pribyl) Madden and Shaunae (BHS-95) (Jerry) Overturf. Also surviving are sisters Beverly (Jeff) Huston and Vickie (Randy) Treadway. A Gathering of Remembrance will be held in Boone. 

        Barbara Lynn Venema, 65, Boone. Born in Minneapolis. Her parents were John H. and Jeanette M. Venema. BHS-79. Barb worked as a clerk at the Iowa State University Parks Library until retirement. She enjoyed traveling, especially to Key West. She was proud of her Dutch heritage and enjoyed engaging in cultural and family traditions. Three siblings, Debra Thompson, John (Amy) Venema and Joanne Venema, and an aunt, Cheryl Flanders, survive. Services at a later date.