Brandon bee II
BRANDON BEE II
Issue # 138 April, May, June 2025
BRANDON AREA COMMUNITY CLUB NEWS:
BRANDON DAYS- STORYTIME
Aug. 1 & 2, 2025:
This year’s Brandon days celebration theme is “Storytime ”. Your favorite story book character(s).
Do you love: Cat in the Hat, Green Eggs and Ham, The Very Hungry Catapillar, Mother Goose Treasury, Winnie the Pooh, There are literally thousands of fun, adventurous story book characters.
Events that we are planning included bags tournament for adults and kids, big ball tournament, horseshoe tournament, pedal tractor pull, facepainting, balloon creations, afternoon entertainment, supper, and an auction.
The raffle will feature prizes of $500, $300, $100 and several smaller prizes.
CONCESSION STAND FUNDRAISING PROJECT:
The concession stand is nearly complete with the exception finishing outside landscaping. We are still short of funds to complete these final projects. Donations can be sent to the Brandon Area Community Club, P.O. Box 163, Brandon, Iowa. 52210
The BACC and the City of Brandon thank each and every donor who has contributed to this fund.
We are proud of our community and the support we receive on these improvement projects.
BACC HELD CHILI CONTEST
On February 15, 2025 the BACC committee held a Chili Cook-off Contest and Bags Tournament.
There were 11 Chili entries, each one a little different from the next. Approximately 50 people attended and voted on the Chilies. The winners were: 1st place Matt Kimm, 2nd place Guy Stacy and 3rd place Brian “Buddy” Thomas.
Forty people participated in the Bags Tournament. Two rounds were played.
Round One
1st place team- Seth Stacy and Buddy Thomas
2nd place team-Theresa Stacy and Chris Gray
3rd place team- Guy Stacy and Gavin Aldrich
Round Two
1st place team- Seth Stacy and Pat Aldrich
2nd place team- Daniel Bevins and Guy Stacy
3rd place team- Amy and Matt Kimm
BACC MEETINGS
Brandon Area Community Club meetings are held on the THIRD Monday of each Month at 7 pm at the Brandon Area Community Center. BACC welcomes all adults to join our community club.
EASTER EGG HUNT
BACC will hold it’s annual Easter Egg Hunt on Good Friday, April 18, 2025 at City Park. It starts at 10 am SHARP. If you get there at 10:05 it will be done! The Easter Bunny will available for pictures.The kids attending have a chance at MANY great prizes. Children 0-12 years old are welcome. Thank you to Theresa and crew for organizing this. If you wish to donate money or candy please contact Theresa 319-721-9675.
COWBOY BREAKFAST:
This year’s Cowboy breakfast will be Sunday, September 21, 2025 at the Brandon Area Community
Center .We will serve from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Menu consists of scrambled eggs, pancakes, fried potatoes,ham, sausage, sausage gravy and homemade biscuits. Orange juice and coffee will be served.
Bags (Corn hole) Tournaments
Final Tournament for the year will be held on April 13th at 4:30 p.m. at Brandon Area Community
Center. $5 per person. Adults 18 and over. Bring your own refreshments and a snack to share.
DONATIONS TO THE BRANDON BEE
Thank you to the following people for their generous donations to the publication of this newsletter;
Karen Sauer, Shirley Himes.
DEADLINE:
The deadline for the July, August, September issue of the Brandon Bee is due by June 15, 2025
Editors’ note: Please submit your information to the Brandon Bee to Denise: dndlehman@msn.com or 1684 332nd Street., Rowley, IA 52329. Complete issues of the Brandon Bee II is published on the Brandon Area Community Club’s website at www.bacciowa.com.
THANK YOU
The Brandon Area Community Club would like to thank Beth and Mike Little for delivering the Brandon Bee II along with MaryBeth Lindaman and Stacy Nabholz. Beth and Mike have stepped down from this job due to health issues. Thank you so much for your years of service Beth and Mike.
Thank you to everyone that attended my 90th Birthday party. The cards, notes, gifts and greetings warmed my heart. Thank you to my family for making my weekend memorable. Who would of thought I would get a “trip to Rome” for my 90th. I thank God for my large family! Everyone always asks if I know all the grandchildrens, greats and great- greats names? I do pretty good about the names BUT don’t ask me their birthdays! Thank you all again! ~~Dolores Novak
CITY WIDE GARAGE SALES
Brandon Garage Sales will be Friday and Saturday
MAY 2 & 3 8 am- 5 pm
Contact- Cindy Clark for more details 563-920-2855
BRANDON GARDEN CLUB ~ Darlys Rogers
The Brandon Garden Club met recently at the home of Karol Smith. We made plans for the coming
year’s activities. We plan to visit some nurseries this year and also discussed other possible activities.
We will make more final plans at our April meeting. We are all ready to work in our flower and
vegetable gardens. We meet on the 4th Monday of each month at Karol’s home beginning at
6:30 pm. We invite anyone interested in gardening to join our group You can contact Karol for further information at 319-290-0101.
PORK LOIN SUPPER
Brandon Fire & EMS Community Supper: A Heartfelt Thank You.
The Brandon Dire and EMS would like to extend our sincerest thanks to everyone who were able to join us for an outstanding supper. Thanks to your generosity and support, we were able to serve approximately 300 people within just two hours- an incredible turnout! Though we ran out of meat, the spirit of the community was in abundance.
We are deeply grateful for the donations received and assure you that they will be put to good use in continuing to serve and protect our community.
MOBILE FOOD PANTRY
The Brandon Mobile Food Pantry is held on the 4th Wednesday of each month. The upcoming dates
are: April 23, May 28, and June 25.
It is held at the Brandon Community Center parking lot and distribution of food is from 4:30 until
5:30. Please remain in your car and the food will be put in your car for you. Please bring boxes back
from previous visits and also have room for the food. Thank you.
Mobile food pantry is open to families in NE Iowa who have a need to supplement their grocery
budget. No cost is involved but you need to supply your name, address and household size.
(Information gathered is used to keep a tally of the number served in the communities and the
event of any recall of food items.) The mobile pantry is a service of the Northeast Iowa Food Bank.
Thank you to the volunteers that help with this project. If you would like to volunteer, please contact
Darlys Rogers 319-474-2368.
BRANDON CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST~ Pastor Lenny Powers
306 East Street
319-474-2159 or 319-929-5604
Worship at 10:00 am. Handicap accessible.
Good Friday Service at 7 pm April 18th
Easter Sunday Service at 10 am April 20th
Bible Study- We hold Bible Study each Wednesday at 7 pm- ANYONE is Welcome. We have been going through the Books of the Bible verse by verse. Each week is a new chapter. We currently are in 2Thessalonians. We have a round table discussion and it’s a great time of fellowship and learning.
We encourage anyone to come and participate.
The Church of Jesus Christ’s renovation project is nearing completion of Phase 1. Decota Mangrich has spent countless hours the last three years working tirelessly and meticulously every Saturday to finish the project. Painting will be the next step of the project. We cannot thank Decota and Lenessa for their sacrifice of time.
CONNIE’S QUILTERS
The quilters meet on the first and third Mondays at Connie’s home at 204 Main Street at 1 pm. Thank you for all the donated fabric. They group has donated over 650 quilts. We welcome quilters of all abilities, if you are a beginner and would love to learn or a seasoned quilter, we welcome you.
Please use the door closest to the garage. If you are interested in joining the group, please contact Connie Landgrabe at 319-540-0587 to obtain details on the meetings.
BRANDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Linda Clark
The Brandon/Jefferson Township Historical Society want to thank everyone for their support. We have been open periodically for patrons to come see what we have accomplished this last year at the museum.
Our next big project will be working on the sewer lines and water lines as well as installing the plumbing for the bathroom. While we raise the money for this project we will be continuing to clean up the items that have been donated to us and moving them to the west side of the building. This is a big project as it involves writing down the; who, what, when, why and how of each item we received and making sure we have the paperwork done for each and every item.
Once that is complete, we will start cleaning the east side of the museum and getting that restored. We want to thank all of the people who have supported us with coming to our fundraising activities and have donated money as well. And of course all of the people who have donated items for the museum.
If you would like to join us for our meetings we would be happy to welcome you on the 2nd Tuesdays of the month at the home of Karol Smith until we get the plumbing going in the bathroom at the museum. If you have any artistry skills we would love to have your skills for doing backdrops, murals, etc. for all our new projects of getting the museum ready for the public.
We will be selling raffle tickets at the Fish and Game “Fish Fry” in March. We will be raffling 3 quilts. If you would like to purchase any tickets call Diana Conrad (319) 327-3424 or Karol Smith (319) 329-0101. One ticket for $3.00 or three tickets for $5.00.
Does anyone have any photos of the big sign that was outside the township hall and later moved to the front of Lyle Likens store that had the names of Brandon veterans on it –was called the “Honor Roll”
TIRED OF THOSE ALUMINUM CANS CLUTTERING UP YOUR GARAGE/HOUSE?
DONATE THEM TO HELP RENOVATE THE BRANDON HISTORICAL MUSEUM!
YOU CAN DROP THEM OFF AT 502 MAIN STREET, BY THE BACK DOOR. EVERY LITTLE BIT HELPS US. CURRENTLY WE OUR WORKING ON NEW PLUMBING!
YOU HELP US AND PLUS YOU WILL FEEL GOOD TOO! THANK YOU IN ADVANCE.
A big thank you to all of the people who have donated so far. We will use it wisely.
Next week I will be posting to the Historical facebook page.
Please feel free to send your donations to Brandon Historical Society, 502 Main Street, Brandon, IA 52210. We have a tax deductible 501 C3 number for large donations.
ALL STATE SPEECH
Myra Peyton and her three teammates performed very well at State Speech and were selected for ALL- State. Myra’s parents are Brian (Bo) and Hilary Peyton.
5 GENERATIONS
The Clark family recently got together at Virginia Gay Nursing and Rehab and took a 5 generation photo. Great-great grandma; Berniece Clark, Great- Grandpa; Tony Clark, Grandma; Tonya Stephens, Mom; Hailey Stephens, Baby Boy; Kai Stephens.
CINDERELLA
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The Independence High School Music Department had three performances of the Roger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, March 21-23, 2025. If you were unable to make it to the production, you missed a great show. So many talented young people in the Jr/Sr High School. Area students performing in the production were Jenna Schmadeke, daughter of Andrea and Paul Schmadeke of Brandon. Myra Peyton, daughter of Bo and Hilary Peyton. Rowley and Bevyn Schultz, daughter of Brandi and Brad Schultz, previously of Brandon.
DISNEY BOUND 2025
Karsyn Nichol has been accepted into the Disney College program and will be moving to Florida at the end of August. She doesn’t know what her placement will be yet as it can be literally be almost anything. Karsyn was devasted to find out she is TOO short to be Princess Belle. We wish her much success, great experiences and a good placement. Mom and Dad are sure to enjoy the Disney Family Discount. Karsyn parents are Karen and Jeremy Nichol, Independence. Her grandparents are Scott and Joyce Anderson, Brandon.
HONOR BAND
Evan Miller and Elizabeth Bumgarner were recently selected to represent Independence Jr High Band in the CCA MIddle School Honor Band on Saturday, February 22nd. Evan is the son of Amanda and Wyatt Miller and Elizabeth parents are James Bumgarner and Kayla Norman. Evan was also selected for the ALL-Iowa 8th grade Honor Band and will perform at the IBA Conference in May.
1st BIRTHDAY
Happy 1st Birthday Madalynn Rogers. Madalynn turned one on April 19th! She is the daughter of Abby and Dillin Rogers, Brandon.
90th BIRTHDAY
Dolores Novak, of rural Brandon, recently celebrated her 90th birthday on March 2, 2025.
Her family hosted a party in her honor at the Brandon Area Community Center. On Saturday, March 1st her family “took her” to Italy for a night of food and fun.
Dolores has 12 children and 10 spouses, 38 grandchildren and 25 spouses, 76 great grandchildren and 4 spouses and 13 great great grandchildren with 3 on the way. If you missed the party and wish to send her a card, Dolores Novak, 1108 15th Street SE, Bondurant, Iowa 50035.
BRANDON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH~ Pastor Luke Evans
507 Main Street
10:00 am. Worship service begins at 10:00 am. Handicap accessible.
Pastor’s contact information:
Rev. Luke Evans
P.O. Box 125
Brandon, Iowa 52210
712-898-4834 pastorlukeevans@gmail.com
BRANDON METHODIST MEN- Chicken BBQ fundraiser
The Brandon Methodist Men’s BBQ Chicken Dinner will be on Saturday, June 7, 2025 serving from 4-7 p.m. Dine In or Carry outs are available. This year’s menu will be BBQ Chicken hindquarters, potato salad, baked beans, dinner roll and desserts. Freewill offering.
BASH
Final BASH for this school year will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. BASH is held from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Thank you to all the kids that attended.
BRANDON METHODIST YOUTH ***YOUTH LEADER (S) NEEDED.***
The Brandon United Methodist Church is in need of Youth Leader(s). Recently our long-time leaders retired and we are in need of new leadership for youth ages 4- 12 grades.
Please contact Denise Lehman, 319-404-8472, if you are interested.
UMW PANCAKE BREAKFAST AND BAKESALE
Brandon United Methodist Church’s Annual Pancake Breakfast and Bake sale will be on Saturday,April 19th. Breakfast will be serve 7- 10 am. Breakfast includes eggs, sausage, pancakes, ham, juice, milk and coffee. Freewill offering!! Many items will be available to buy at the bakesale. Handicap accessible.
Family Mystery Supper
The Brandon Methodist Women’s Family Mystery Supper was held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025
at 6:30 pm. Forty people enjoyed a four course meal and the mystery menu. Menu featured Mongolian food items. Our speaker was Shelby VanWeelden from Coggon. Shelby competed in the horse race across Mongolia and shared her adventure with us.
If you have never been to a Mystery supper, I will explain. Each person is given a menu. On the left hand side are 12 items listed (this year’s menu was in Mongolian). On the right hand side of the menu there is 4 courses listed with 3 items for each course. You choose 3 items for each course. You give your menu to a server and they bring you the first course. Your first course may be a napkin, egg roll and your drink. You are required to turn in all items after each course. Next course may be your soup, fork, bread.
It is a fun night and it was enjoyed by all.
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AREA TOWN CELEBRATIONS
MANCHESTER RIVER DAYS JUNE 5-7
STRAWBERRY DAYS JUNE 5-8
MY WATERLOO DAYS JUNE 5-8
CENTERPOINT PORK DAYS JUNE 6-7
BENTON COUNTY MUSIC FESTIVAL JUNE 7
HAZELTON HAZE DAYS JUNE 7-8
OELWEIN JUNE 7-8
LAPORTE CITY- JUNE 13-15
WINTHROP DAYS JUNE 14-15TH
FAIRBANK ISLAND DAYS JUNE 16-21
JESUP FARMERS DAY JUNE 19- 21
INDEPENDENCE JULY 4TH
AURORA JULY 4TH
BUCHANAN COUNTY FAIR JULY 15-20
JONES COUNTY FAIR JULY 16-20
RAGBRAI JULY 19-26 OVERNIGHT IN OELWEIN THURSDAY
FAYETTE CO FAIR JULY 22-25
ROWLEY DAYS JULY 23-27
WALKER PICKLE DAYS JULY 25-27
BRANDON DAYS AUGUST 1 -2
LAMONT DAYS AUGUST 1-2
URBANA DAYS AUGUST 8-10
OELWEIN RAILROAD/HERITAGE DAYS 3RD WEEKEND IN AUG
INDEPENDENCE BREWBQUE 8-23
COLLEGE GRADUATES
Ellie Nabholz graduates from Wartburg College, Waverly, in May with religion and art majors and graphic design minor.
Addie Nabholz graduates from Wartburg College, Waverly, in May with a major in journalism and communication with a concentration in public relations and a minor in business. Addie is a member of Illuminate Films- a five member group in Journalism and Communications department at Wartburg. They are creating a 15-minute documentary on Mitochondrial Disease to inform, spread awareness and share stories of how this disease affects families.
Addie and Ellie are the daughters of Chris and Stacy Nabholz, Brandon.
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES-- Congratulations to these graduates and best wishes in your future endeavors
Gracee and Grady Cornwell, daughter and son of Ty and Megan Cornwell will both graduate on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from the Independence Senior High School.
Gracee plans on attending Kirkwood Community College to Major in Nursing. In High School, Gracee participated in soccer and National Honor Society
Grady also plans to attend Kirkwood Community College and major in Electrical Engineering. Grady participated in golf while in High School.
Grandparents are Raleigh and Sherri Truax, Brandon,IA and Mark Plein and Sherry Plein.
Riley Dean Nielsen, son of Rod and Karla Nielsen of Brandon, will be graduating from Union High School in La Porte City on May 18, 2025. Riley has one brother, Cayden. He is the grandson of the late Dick and Norma Nielsen of Brandon, and the late Dick and Patty Allen of La Porte City. Riley’s future plans after High School are undecided at this time. Congratulations Riley, Mom and Dad couldn’t be more proud of you!
Olivia Albert is the daughter of Tyler and Susie Albert, granddaughter of Karen Seamans, Dennis and Nancy Albert, and the late Ruth and Jaron Sweet. Olivia will graduate from Independence Jr/Sr, High School on Sunday, May 18, 2025. She received the awards of Academic All-State, achieving a 4.0 GPA, and Second Team All- Conference. Olivia accomplished 200 volunteer Silver Cord hours. She also participated in FCCLA, student council, and National Honors Society. Olivia plans to attend the University of Iowa with a major in Human Physiology (pre-Dental).
Bella Louvar will graduate from Independence Jr/Sr. High School on Sunday, May 18, 2025.
She is a member of the National Honor Society. Future plans are to continue her academic and athletic career in college. Current plan is to major in Biology and play Softball as her sport of choice.
She has not chosen a college yet. Bella participated and lettered in three sports, softball (5 yrs.), soccer (4 yrs.), and basketball (2 yrs.). Bella received many awards in her high school sports career.
2nd team all conference in softball (2021,2022,2023);1ST Team all conference softball (2024); 1st team all conference-Soccer (2022,2023,2024);1st team all district -Soccer (2023); 3rd team All State-Softball (2023); 1st team all District- Soccer (2023) and Academic all conference (2024).
Bella’s parents are Jack and Jill Louvar, Brandon, Her older sister is Marleigh Louvar,University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN, Grandparents are Danny C and Angie Halligan, Brandon and Richard and Barbara Louvar, Cedar Rapids, Ia.
RETIREMENT
Sharon Bauer, Brandon, retired in October 2024. She served as the Harrison Township Clerk for 35 years. Replacing Sharon is Kelly (Byron) Geater.
STATE -JESUP ARCHERY
Kamden Long, 5th Grade Jesup Elementary shot 265, at the State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on Saturday March 1st and 2nd, 2025.. Parents are John & Brooke Long of Jesup. Grandparents are Darrell & Kim Brunko of Brandon, & Martha Long of Vinton and the late Jim Long.
STATE ARCHERY- INDEPENDENCE
The Independence Mustang Archers had a banner weekend at the Iowa Archery in Schools- NASP State Archery Tournament held in Des Moines, Iowa on March 1 and 2, 2025. The Middle School team placed 2nd . Many local youth placed well. Coaches are Travis Mestad, Dave Harms, Chris Luloff, Jess Luloff, David Gissell, Bo Peyton, Derrick Hess, Travis Shellhorn, James Bumgarner.
Evan Miller,8th grade, son of Wyatt and Amanda Miller, participated in the NASP Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March1 and 2, 2025. Evan shot a 272 in bullseye for Iowa Middle School, Evan qualified for Nationals in May in Louisville, Kentucky. Evan is a member of the Independence Middle School Team which took 2nd place in the tournament. Evan also participated in 3D shoot and scored 282. Evan placed 6th overall in the Middle school class. Evan is an Academic Archer. Evan was chosen for 3D Archery All -State team! Evan’s grandparents are Beth Carlson, Jim and Sally Leider.
Memphis Peyton, 7th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1 and 2, 2025. Memphis scored 281 pts in bullseye, he had the high score for Independence Middle school boys . Memphis is a member of the Independence Middle School Team which took 2nd place in the bullseye tournament .The middle school team qualified for Nationals being held in May in Louisville, Kentucky. Memphis is an Academic Archer. Memphis is the son of Brian (Bo) and Hilary Peyton. He is grandson of Doug and Denise Lehman, Rowley and Karen and Wyatt Parkinson, Hazelton and (the late Pat Peyton).
Blake Halligan, 8th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1 and 2, 2025. Blake scored 268 pts in bullseye, his new PR . Blake is a member of the Independence Middle School Team which took 2nd place in the bullseye tournament .The middle school team qualified for Nationals being held in May in Louisville, Kentucky. Blake’s parents are Tim and Jenny Halligan, Brandon. Grandparents are DC and Angie Halligan and Dennis and Chris Palmer all of Brandon.
Elizabeth Bumgarner, 8th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1 and 2, 2025. Elizabeth scored 266 pts in bullseye . She also participated in 3D scoring 258. Elizabeth is a member of the Independence Middle School Team which took 2nd place in the bullseye tournament .The middle school team qualified for Nationals being held in May in Louisville, Kentucky. Elizabeth is an Academic Archer. Elizabeth is the daughter of James Bumgarner and Kayla Norman. Grandparents are John and Kaila Bumgarner, Brandon, John and Denise Hockey, Gilbertville and Karen Norman, Independence.
Phillip Johnson, 9th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1, 2025. Phillip scored 252 in bullseye. He participated in 3D scoring 264. Phillip is a member of the Independence High School Team. Phillip was an academic archer. Phillip’s parents are Andrew and Amanda Johnson. Grandparents are Donna Roepke, Independence, Ken and Sandy Johnson, Independence.
Brooklyn Banghart, 11th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1, 2025. Brooklyn scored 265 pts in bullseye. Brooklyn is a member of the Independence High School Team. Brooklyn was an academic archer.
Bristol Albert, 4th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1 and 2, 2025. Bristol scored 195 pts in bullseye. Bristol is a member of the Independence Elementary School Team which took 6th place in the bullseye tournament . Her parents are Derek and Melyssa Albert. Her grand parents are Chuck and Diana Lee and Dan and Anne Lawless
State Archery Continued:
Cooper Smith, 6th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1, 2025. Cooper scored 211 pts in 3D Cooper is a member of the Independence Middle School Team which took 2nd place in the bullseye tournament .The Middle school team qualified for Nationals being held in May in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the son of Theresa and Tracy Smith.
Roman Johnson, 12th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1, 2025. Roman scored 242 in bullseye. Roman is a member of the Independence High School Team. Roman’s parents are Andrew and Amanda Johnson. Grandparents are Donna Roepke, Independence, Ken and Sandy Johnson, Independence.
Abigayle Johnson, 11th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1, 2025. Abigayle scored 261 in bullseye. Abigayle is a member of the Independence High School Team. Abigayle is an academic archer. Abigayle’s parents are Andrew and Amanda Johnson. Grandparents are Donna Roepke, Independence, Ken and Sandy Johnson, Independence.
Cayson Cook,4th grade, participated in the Iowa State Archery Tournament in Des Moines on March 1 and 2, 2025. Cayson scored 213 in bullseye. He is a member of the Independence Elementary School Team which placed 6th. Cayson is the son of Calista and Andy Brunko. His grandparents are Darrell and Kim Brunko and Doug and Lura Cook.
LIME CREEK FISH AND GAME CLUB
The Lime Creek Fish and Game club held their annual Fish Fry at the Brandon Area Community Center on Saturday, March 29, 2025. They want to thank everyone that attended. They had over 350 people attend and they fried 400 # of fish. The crowd enjoy fish, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw and dessert.
Please like their Facebook page for info on the club news and events -Lime Creek Fish and Game Club.
MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES AT BRANDON CEMETERY
Memorial Day/Military Program at the Brandon Cemetery on Monday, May 26, 2025. The program begins at 9 am sharp provided by the Jesup American Legion.
One of the Projects for 2025 is to have the roadway in front of the Brandon Cemetery sprayed for dust control We need your help to make this project happen! Please send monetary donations to:
Brandon Cemetery Association
2342 Benton Buchanan Road
Brandon, Iowa 52210
Thank you for your continued support.
For information on the cemetery, follow BRANDON CEMETERY on Facebook or call Denise Albert Cue at 319-464-7577.
MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES AT BEAR CREEK CEMETERY
Memorial Day service will be held at 9:00 am with Military Program on May 26, 2025.
If it rains, services will be held inside the Bear Creek Church. A free-will offering breakfast will be services from 7:30 am to 10:30 am in the Bear Creek Church. Donations will be used for continuing improvements to Bear Creek Church. Come and see the new roof and new sided church
All are welcome.
Bear Creek is located 3 1/2 miles south of Brandon on the Brandon Blacktop (V71), or 3 1/2 miles north of Highway 150 on the Brandon Blacktop (V71).
MEMORIAL DAY
Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.
Memorial Day, as it gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War II, The Vietnam War, The Korean War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
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VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION WEEK IS APRIL 20-27, 2025I thank each of you for taking time from your busy lives to volunteer for our community. If you haven’t had an opportunity to volunteer but our interested in lending a helping hand, whether you have an hour to spare or more, all of the organizations welcome new members with new ideas. I have listed the contact person to inquire about each group or organization below:
Brandon Area Community Club Doug Lehman 319-404-8471
Garden Club Karol Smith 319-329-0101
Historical Society Diana Conrad 319-327-3424
Connie’s Quilters Connie Langrabe 319-540-0587
First Responders Kelly Thomas 319-361-0031
Brandon Volunteer Fire Dept Deb Bistline 319-327-2496
Lime Creek Fish and Game Club Chris Palmer 563-920-9755
Bear Creek Church Denny Donley 319-560-5599
Brandon Methodist Church Rev Luke Evans 712-898-4834
Brandon Church of Christ Rev Lenny Powers 319-474-2159
Brandon Cemetery Denise Cue 319-464-7577
Brandon Area Mobile Food Pantry Darlys Rogers 319-474-2368
CARING PAGES
(Editor’s note: This page is meant to keep people updated with information on our friends and neighbors who are in need of a pick me up. Please, if you are inclined, brighten these people’s day with a card or a note.)
Pat Rogers, formerly of Brandon, is now residing at West Village in Independence. Please send her a note or card to brighten her day.
Pat Rogers
ABCM West Care Center
1610 3rd Street NE
Independence, IA 50644
Donna Roepke, formerly of Brandon area, is now residing at Prairie Hills Senior Living. It would be nice for her to receive cards or notes from her Brandon Area friends.
Donna Roepke
Prairie Hills Senior Living
505 Enterprise Drive SW
Independence, IA 50644
Rex Stephens, of Rural Brandon, is experiencing continued health issues. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Rex would enjoy some notes and cards.
Rex Stephens
2666 50th Street
Brandon, Iowa 52210
Sharon Noe, formerly of Brandon, is now residing at Windhaven Assisted Living. Please send her a note or card to brighten her day.
Sharon Noe
Windhaven Assisted Living
5500 South Main Street #44
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
Michelle Erger, Is on the Transplant list and doing home hemo, which is dialysis. Please brighten her day with a note of encouragement.
Michelle Erger
308 Main Street
Brandon, Iowa 52210
Ross Wiley, is currently residing at the Lutheran home for some skilled nursing care. Brighten his day with a note or card.
Ross Wiley
Lutheran Home
1301 2nd Ave
Vinton, Iowa 52349
Beth Little, is facing some medical issues. Please take time to brighten her day with a note or card.
Beth Little
508 Cedar Street
Brandon, Iowa 52210
Berniece Clark, formerly of Brandon, is now residing at Virginia Gay Nursing and Rehab. Brighten her day with a note or card.
Berniece Clark
Virginia Gay Nursing and Rehab
Room 224
502 North 9th Avenue
Vinton, IA 52329
Dolores Novak, formerly of Brandon, has been diagnosed with cancer. Please brighten her day with a card or note.
Dolores Novak
1108 15th Street S.E.
Bondurant, Iowa 50035
OBITUARIES:
Rev. Robert G. 'Bob' Beard, formerly of Cuba and the Pines Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center of Olean, passed away Thursday (Jan. 2, 2025) at Olean General Hospital, following a brief illness.
Bob was born Jan. 16, 1935, in Lafeyette, Ind., and was the son of Millard E. and Anis F. James Beard. On June 22, 1958, at Cuba First Baptist Church, he married Sandra Ann Arzberger, who predeceased him March 2, 2021.
In early 1971, Bob felt called to the ministry and entered Gordon College in Wenham, Mass. While there he worked as a campus janitor and supervisor. Bob graduated with a BA in Biblical and Theological studies in June of 1975. He entered Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Mass. in the fall of 1975. He was also pastoring at the First Baptist Church in Mendon, Mass., where the family lived. Bob graduated from seminary With a Master of Divinity (MDIV) degree in June 1978. Bob served as the Brandon Methodist Church in Brandon, Iowa in the 1990’s.
Bob is survived by his daughter, Kathleen A. (Terence) Hays of Oneota; two granddaughters, Phoenix B. (Luthaya) Beard of Friendship and Courtney M. (Elijah Sullivan) Hays of Albany; a sister, Ethel Simon of Lafayette, Ind.; a brother, James (Jessie) Beard of Zanesville, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.
Bob was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Sandra; three brothers, Edward (Ann) Beard, Russell (Marie) Beard and John Beard; and two nephews, Gerry and Curtis Beard.
Patricia “Patty” Ann Mckinley, 75, died Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at Virginia Gay Hospital in Vinton. Memorial services were held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Vinton on January 18, 2025 .
Patricia was born on February 25, 1949 in Waterloo to Merton Mckinley and Eva DeMoss. She attended Independence High School graduating with the class of 1967.
She enjoyed spending time with family, writing poems, traveling, facetiming old friends, keeping in touch with friends on Facebook. She also enjoyed reading and sharing bible based hope with others she met. She was a member of the Vinton congregation of the Jehovah's Witnesses.
She is survived by her sister; Lura (Doug) Cook of Independence, brother; Bill (Teri) Mckinley of Independence, nephews; Andy, Cory, and Joel Mckinley, Nieces; Sarah Cook, Calista Brunko, and Molly Hocken, and 14 great nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, and her sister Alice.
Erma J. Richter, 67, of Evansdale, died Saturday, January 4, 2025, at her home of natural causes. She was born on August 29, 1957, in Waterloo, daughter of Carl R. and Ethel A. (Sharar) Stocks. She graduated from East High School. She married Dale Richter on October 3, 1980. Erma was a homemaker and housewife. She enjoyed crafting, taking care of her flowers, and spending time with family.
She is survived by her husband, Dale of Evansdale; three sons: DJ (Amanda) Richter, Bryan Richter, and Cody Richter; 11 grandchildren; two stepkids: Kelly Richter and Tanya Mrzlak; three brothers: Carl Jr. (Julie) Stocks, Terry Stocks, and Danny (Sandy) Stocks and two sisters, Vickie Albert and Karen (Rex) Neuenkirk. Local survivor is Cindy(Rod) Clark.Erma is preceded in death by her daughter, Missie and her parents.
Funeral services 10:30 AM, Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Locke at Garden View, Waterloo with burial in the Garden of Memories Cemetery.
Robert E. McVicker, age 83, passed away peacefully in his home on February 15, 2025.
He was born to Robert A. and Faye (Giffin) McVicker on January 25, 1942. He married the love of his life, Carolyn Startzman, on December 23, 1984 and together they raised two sons. Bob dedicated his career to working as a welder for The Anderson's in their fabrication shop until his retirement. He was an active member of the Club 16 Car Club and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family at the cabin in Pennsylvania. Bob also enjoyed relaxing and watching his old black-and-white western movies and nascar races. Above all, he cherished being a grandfather! He deeply loved and cared for his grandchildren, whom he affectionately called "My Breet-see" and "My little buddy."
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Sondra Zeck, Beverly Marcum, Marilyn Monroe and brother, Jeffrey McVicker. He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; sons, David (Megan) Jones, and Dan (Kristi) Jones; grandchildren, Jaidan, Maddex and London; brothers, John (Mary) McVicker, James (Kathy) McVicker as well as, many nieces and nephews. Local survivor is niece, Joan (Mike) Brown.
Per Bob's request, a Private Memorial Service will be held for the family on March 1, 2025.
Connie M. Meister, 73, of Independence, IA, died on Monday, January 27. 2025, at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Connie was born on August 27, 1951, in Independence, IA, the daughter of Harry W. and Bernice M. (Waitman) Johnson. She grew up in Brandon, IA, and spent a lot of her time with her cousins. She enjoyed spending her youth outside and loved caring for animals. In 1969, she graduated from Independence High School and went on to study at Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo, IA. She became a Certified Nurses Aide and started working at the Mental Health Institute in Independence.
On December 24, 1973, Connie married George A. Meister and they made their home together in Independence. Connie stopped working and stayed home to care for the house, George and her cats.
She is survived by her brother, Ric Johnson, Independence, IA; and several cousins.
Connie is preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Bernice Johnson; and her husband, George Meister.
A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, in the Community Room of the Reiff Family Center – Funeral Home & Crematory in Independence, IA. Inurnment will be held at Wilson Cemetery.
Thelma Margaret Horak was born July 4, 1935 and went to heaven on January 31, 2025. She married Merle Horak, April 7, 1956. He passed away February 4, 2020. She is the mother to three children, grandmother to eight grandchildren, great-grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and great-great grandmother to one grandbaby who is due in April.
She attended a one-room school house and graduated from Vinton High School.
Thelma lived a life of service to her family in a variety of ways. She supported her husband in all of his endeavors throughout their marriage. She cooked delicious meals, made handmade clothes, tended gardens and flowers, and watched over many pets. She cared for their home and provided a loving launching point for her family.
She was the best secret keeper and took pride in her ability to know something that no one else knew until the proper time. Thelma wrote funny poems and always laughed at a good story or memory. She and Merle moved to rural Vinton in 1978. This led her to be brave enough to get her drivers license at thirty-seven years old. She loved to meet friends for coffee to catch up on all the latest news.
Thelma was a good listener and always picked up on the favorites of each of the members in the family. She usually came to visit with a favorite treat or had something special waiting at her house as a gift. For many years she mailed birthday and holiday cards with dollar bills inside. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary and knew how old and how long for each of them. She shared plants, recipes and advice about them, with anyone who asked. If you enjoyed Groundhog Day or Christmas or had a favorite sport team or hobby you could rely on her festive support.
One of Thelma’s greatest joys was being a grandmother. She made flannel blankets with impossibly straight hems, crocheted blankets, and read Little Golden books repeatedly. There were always chocolate candies in the jar on the counter. She hosted grandkid overnights in the summer and always made so many Christmas treats! She loved to have the whole family for holidays and visits which always ended with her waving from the big front window, as we drove down the road toward home.
Thelma’s most endearing qualities are her generosity and loyalty to those she loved. We miss her and the love she shared with us for her lifetime.
The family will have a private celebration of life and burial. Teahen Funeral Home is caring for Thelma and her family. Memorials may be direct to a charity of your choice in Thelma’s name.
Gladys Pauline Hertzberg, 90 years old, of rural Brandon, IA, died of natural causes, Thursday, January 16, 2025, at her home.
Funeral Services were held Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at White Funeral Home in Independence, IA. Burial will be in the Brandon Cemetery.
Gladys Pauline was born September 22, 1934, in Benton County, IA, the daughter of Oscar Oliver Fish and Neomi (Smouse) Fish. She attended country school in the area and graduated from Brandon High School. On June 24, 1951, she was united in marriage to Howard Lorraine Hertzberg at the Church of Christ in Brandon, IA. He preceded her in death in 1997. Pauline liked being a housewife, but she was also content working outside the home. Over the years, she worked as a sales representative for different food brands, most recently serving samples and interacting with customers at Sam’s Club in Cedar Rapids, IA. She enjoyed reading, shopping, and going to church. She was a long-time member of the Church of Christ in Brandon.
Pauline is survived by her daughter-in-law, Veronica Hertzberg of Brandon, IA; brother-in-law, Robert (Marilyn) Hertzberg of Independence, IA; sister-in-law, LaVelle Wessels of Independence, IA; and many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Howard; her son, Michael Hertzberg; one brother, John Frederick “Fred” Fish; and three sisters, Rose Ultis, Doris Witmer, and Betty Nielsen.
Memorials may be directed to the family.
Dorothy Frances Wenger passed away Thursday, January 30, 2025, at her daughter’s home surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 85. She was born on September 4,1939, west of Oelwein on her family farm. She was the second of four children born to Cletus and Margaret (Suhr) Fettkether and raised on the family farm in rural Maynard. While attending Maynard High School in 1956, Dorothy played six on six girl’s basketball, with Maynard beating Garrison 62-51 to claim the title of State Champs before a crowd of 13,517 people. Dorothy’s love for girls’ basketball never ended! She would often challenge the grandkids to a game of basketball, she always had girls’ basketball on the radio, and as she laid in the hospital room she was watching basketball on TV.
Dorothy married Johnny Wenger June 4, 1956 at Sacred Heart Church in Oelwein, Iowa. Together, they had three children. Dorothy was predeceased by her beloved husband Johnny on September 13, 1993, at the age of 57. Dorothy was always known as a hard worker and continued to farm after her husband passed away. She could be found on her farm doing chores, feeding cattle, fixing fence or baling hay, right up until her illness. In addition to farming, Dorothy also worked at Pronto Market in Fairbank for many years, Dr. John A. Johnson, DDS in Oelwein for 20 years, and was still currently working for Life of Iowa in Oelwein until she was hospitalized in December. Dorothy loved to cook and everyone looked forward to her homemade bread at family gatherings. Before, her passing, she was putting together a cookbook of all her favorite homemade recipes to give as a gift to all her children and grandchildren. She was also known for her beautiful handmade quilts which she gave as wedding gifts. She also made sure each grandchild and great-grandchild received a special cedar chest for their graduation as a personized gift from their grandma.
Her passing was sudden and unexpected, but she took her last breathe surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren in peace. Dorothy is survived by her partner of 24 years, Richard “Dick” Lehman, her son, John (Joan) Wenger of Fairbank, her two daughters, Dorothy (Scott) Wehling of Oelwein and Doreen (Michael) Bixeman of Fairbank. her grandchildren, Jill (Jeremy) Michael, Dr. Jean (Ben) Hermsen, Janette (Matthew) Brincks, Jessica (Travis) Michaels, Julia (Andy) Sperfslage, Jonathan (Jennifer) Wenger, Jacob Wenger, Dorthea (Travis) Bovy, Scott (Sara) Wehling, Chris (Kelsie) Wehling, Alisha Lucas (Terry Shephard), Austin Lucas and Mikayla Bixeman. two sisters; Eileen Lee of Hawkeye and Anna Kay Woodson of Fairbank, and a sister-in-law Shirley Fettkether of Maynard. She is also survived by Dicks children, Randy (Jen) Lehman of Brandon, Rick (Karen) Lehman of Gilbert, AZ, and Doug (Denise) Lehman of Rowley as well as his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Dorothy is also survived by a couple neighbor girls, whom she held a special bond and thought of them as her “other daughters”, Donna Ott-Brown and Amy Ott-Scott.
She was preceded in death by her husband Johnny Wenger, her parents Cletus & Margaret Fettkether, her brother Cletus Fettkether, her father and mother-in-law Virgil & Edna Wenger, three brothers–in-law; Donnie Lee, Bob Woodson, Duane Wenger and a sister-in-law, Marion Wenger.
Mass of Christian Burial: Tuesday, February 4th at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Fairbank.
Interment: Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Fairbank
David L. Novak, 63, of Cedar Rapids died Saturday, February 15, 2025, in Cedar Rapids. Funeral Service to be held Tuesday, February 25th at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Interment at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery in Cedar Rapids.
He was born April 3, 1961, in Santa Ana, CA to Lester and Lois (McCleary) Novak. David graduated from Kennedy High School and enlisted in the Army National Guard. David had his own business and was an excellent carpenter. He loved hunting, fishing, playing cards, and listening to 80's Rock n' Roll. David loved to spend time with his family and was loved by all and will be missed by many.
David is survived by his 2 children, Katie (Joe McGruder) Novak and Kolton Novak; grandson, Jaxxson; mother, Lois (John) Novak; father Lester aka Pete Novak: 3 brothers, Doug (Kelly) Novak, Daniel (Terri) Novak, Mark (Heidi) Novak; several nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews; along with step-brothers and step-sisters. Local survivors are aunt Dolores Novak, cousin, Denise Lehman.
Norma I. Masters, 95, of Waterloo, Iowa, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025 at Unity Point Health Allen Memorial Hospital with her loving family by her side.
Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Chu