Issue # 135 July, Aug, Sept 2024
MEMORIES OF A FORMER BRANDONITE- Bruce Robinson
Editor’s note: After Bruce shared these newspaper articles with me, he passed away on June 7, 2024 at the age of 88 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. He sent me several, I will share two in this issue of the Bee.
My Mother, Winifred Robinson, went to school in Brandon with Charlotte Davis Lehman. When staying in Brandon we would stay at Lee and Dawnye Sturtz or Karol Smith. Karol lives in what was my Grandma Irene’s home. The following are letters to the Editor and an article, I wrote and were published in the Herald Review. I give Denise permission to publish them in the Brandon Bee II. Bruce G. Robinson 4-23-2024.
Wednesday, August 19, 2020 Herald Review
My mother, Winnie Robinson Guttersen, was a well-respected school teacher who started her elementary teaching years in 1944 in the little town of Brandon, Iowa. Mom was an early widow so she was the bread-winner for the four of us including my Grandma Irene. We were lucky to have Grandma Irene and her house to live in.
Many lessons Mom taught were not only by her students but also me and my sister Lonnie. I would like to share the following:
1. “Read, read, read.”
2. “When you hear something that seems far-fetched or exaggerated, ask in a polite way, “where did you get your information?””
3. Beware when making friends; be sure they pull you up to their level, not pull you down to their level.
4. In conclusion, build your character on solid ground so you will be a good and reliable friend to others, as well as a good citizen. ~Bruce G. Robinson Grand Rapids
December 30, 2015 Herald Review
A real life experience never forgotten on Dec. 7, 1941 by Bruce G. Robinson
Recently spotting the exact kind of 1941 Chevrolet sedan for sale at the Pluemer’s Antique Store, and stopping by to look at it and touch it, brought back the memory of my personal experience of the late afternoon on Dec. 7, 1941.
Glenn and Winifred Robinson were my parents and Jalond is my sister. We lived on a small Iowa farm, a half mile north of Rhodes, Iowa. That is seven miles south of State Center, Iowa. In 1941, I was 5 years old.
Our neighbor, also a small farmer, had just purchased a brand new 1941 Chevrolet four-door sedan, black in color. What a car in those days!
The neighbors, Marion and Mrytle Wendel and their son Harlan, invited us to ride in their new car on a Christmas shopping trip to Des Moines, Iowa.
We did window shopping at Yonker’s Department Store. At age 5, I was captured by the big city lights and the Christmas decorations and the holiday spirit exhibited by the crowds of people on the streets. Late in the afternoon we were headed home as the men had to finish their farm chores.
As we were leaving, news came that the Japanese had just bombed Pearl Harbor where many of our battle ships were stationed. I remember the sounds of grief people were making and the strange looks on their faces. At 5 years old, I did not totally understand what I was seeing and hearing but later I understood.
BRANDON AREA COMMUNITY CLUB NEWS:
BRANDON DAYS- SPACE ADVENTURES Aug 2, 3, 2024:
This year’s Brandon days celebration theme is “Space Adventures ”. Think space ships, Star Wars, space aliens, The Jetsons, Star Trek etc.
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.
NEW CONCESSION STAND FUNDRAISING PROJECT:
The concession stand is nearly complete, with the exception of the 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 that has contributed to this fund.
We are proud of our community and the support we receive on these improvement projects.
BACC MEETINGS
Brandon Area Community Club meetings will be 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.
COWBOY BREAKFAST:
Cowboy breakfast will be Sunday, September 15, 2024, 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.
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BRANDON GARDEN CLUB
The Brandon Garden Club recently went on their spring outing. We visited Sue’s Flower and Garden Center in Manchester, Corner Market and Green House in Oelwein and a couple of greenhouses in the Amish area. We made many purchases that we will need to plant. We will be making a float for the Parade during Brandon Days.
We meet on the 4th Monday of each month at Karol’s home beginning at 6:30. We invite anyone interested in gardening to join the group. You can contact Karol for further information at 319-290-0101.
PHATS PUB AND GRUB CAR/ BIKE SHOW
Phats Pub and Grub will be hosting a Car and Bike Show on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 3 pm.
Trophies for: *Best of Paint* *Best of Show* *Best Truck* *Best Motorcycle**.
Food and Drink by Phats. Live Music after the show by “Hard Tellin”. $3.00 Busch Light Bottles
For more information, contact Mark Johnson at 319-444-8998.
BRANDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY – Linda Clark
The Brandon/Jefferson Township Historical Society met at the home of Karol Smith in June.
The society contracted Window World to finish putting in new windows on the lower level of the building at 502 Main Street in Brandon. The old “bank building” and our new historical museum is looking good. Take a drive by the building and see what we’ve done. We replaced the last 3 doors in the building as well and had them trimmed as well to match the windows. We have purchased and stained the trim board and will be putting it on around the west side of the museum building in the next few weeks.
The Brandon Historical Society would like to send a THANK YOU to the BUCHANAN COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION for rewarding us the grant monies to be able to finish this project.
Our next big project will be working on installing the plumbing for the bathroom. While we raise the money for this project we will be starting to clean up the items that have been donated to us and moving them to the west side of the building. It is so exciting to be moving forward and getting one step closer to opening the museum for all the people interested in history of Brandon and surrounding area.
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. 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.
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.
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.
The remodeling project continues at the church, and we will have updates at a later date.
COMMUNITY EVENT HOSTED BY BRANDON CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
On Sunday, August 11, 2024 at 2 pm the Brandon Church of Jesus Christ will be hosting an event for the whole community. It will take place at the Brandon Area Community Center. The speaker will be AJ Harman an NFL player who played for the Kansas City Chiefs as well as the Seattle Seahawks.
He will be giving his career testimony and offering encouragement to youth and all of us young at heart. There will be musical entertainment before AJ Harman speaks. Please plan to attend. No cost for admission but they will be receiving a free- will offering.
BRANDON FIRE DEPARTMENT/FIRST RESPONDERS- Pork Loin Supper
The Brandon Fire Department and First Responders held a Grilled Pork Loin Supper Fundraiser on Saturday, April 13, 2024. Thank you to all that attended and supported the Emergency Services. All proceeds will be used for equipment and supplies for the “new to us” firetruck.
The Brandon Fire Department is looking for anyone interested in joining the department. Membership is open to anyone that lives in the city of Brandon or a rural resident within the Brandon Fire District.
Candidates must be 18 years of age or older. If interested Gary Albert 319-240-5363
MOBILE FOOD PANTRY
The Brandon Mobile Food Pantry is held on the 4th Wednesday of each month. The upcoming dates
are July 24, August 28 and September 25. It is held at the Brandon Community Center parking lot
and distribution of food is from 4:30 pm until 5:30 pm. Please remain in your car and the food will
be put in your car for you. Please bring boxes back from previous food pantry visits and have room for the food in your car. Thank you.
The 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 members served in the communities and in the event of the recall of food items. The mobile pantry is a service of the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. Thank you to all the volunteers that help with this project. If you would like to volunteer or have any questions about the food pantry, please contact Darlys Rogers at 319-474-2368.
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
PICNIC IN PARK
September 8 @ 10:30am. Brandon, Garrison, Vinton-Stewart Memorial and Mount Auburn UMC having worship and potluck picnic at the Vinton city park across the street from Virginia Gay Hospital.
BRANDON METHODIST MEN- Chicken BBQ fundraiser
The Brandon Methodist Men’s BBQ Chicken Dinner was held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, the menu included BBQ Chicken, potato salad, baked beans, dinner roll and desserts. The Brandon Methodist Men would like to thank everyone that supported us. Those who came and got food (dine in or carry out, those who helped (prepare, cook, made dessert, served, helped with clean-up) It was a successful event serving over 160 people.
BRANDON METHODIST YOUTH
Plans are in the works for another church float during the Brandon Days parade on August 3. We will begin designing the float on July 28 or 29, and we would welcome others who would like to help with this project. Be sure to attend the parade to see the youth's special message using the fun Space Adventures theme.
It won't be long before we schedule our first planning meeting in September. We invite students in grades 4-12 and encourage them or their parents to call Rachel at 319-551-4794 or Dawnye at 319-334-0163 for more information.
KIDS LUNCH IN THE PARK
There will be NO lunch in the Park this summer. Sorry we are unable to continue this program.
BASH
2024-25 School year kick-off of BASH will be held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. BASH is held from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Any child age kindergarten- 5th grade are invited to come. The Brandon bus will drop the kids off with parental permission.
FALL SUPPER
Brandon United Methodist Women’s Annual Fall Supper and Bazaar is Saturday, September 28, 2024 serving from 4:30-7:30pm at Brandon United Methodist Church 507 Main St. Brandon, Iowa
Meal includes:Homemade Chicken and Noodles, mashed potatoes, squash, green beans, salad bar
and dessert. ALL extra quarts of Chicken and Noodles MUST be ordered ahead of dinner. Call Lu 319-310-5610.
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85th BIRTHDAY
Dick Lehman, Fairbank,formerly of Brandon, will turn 85 on July 14, 2024. He is celebrating with a family get together at his son’s home. Dick has three sons, Randy (Jen), Brandon, Rick (Karen), Gilbert, Az., Doug (Denise), Rowley. Dick lives outside of Fairbank with his long time companion Dorothy Wenger. He has 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. If you would like to send him a card, his address is 23279 30th Street, Fairbank, IA 50629
65th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Vivian and Delbert Sommerfelt, Independence, formerly of Brandon, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary with a open house on July 27, 2024 from 1-4 pm. The open house will be at the UAW Hall, 2615 Washington Street, Waterloo, Iowa. Everyone is welcome to attend
Vivian and Delbert were married on July 24,1959 at Immanual Lutheran Church in Waterloo, Iowa.
The couple lived in Brandon from 1972-1991. The couple had six children, Terry(Laurie);
Brian(Linda); Wade, Bill, Traci (Brandy) and Kim(Rey). They have 32 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. Cards may be sent to 417 2nd Avenue N.E., Independence, Iowa 50644
BIRTH
Hailey Stephens, Vinton, is proud to announce the birth of her son, Kaizaya Trejon Stephens. Kai was born on May 30, 2024 at 2:55 am. He weighed 5 lbs. 5.6 ounces and was 18” long. Kai’s father is Trevion Calhoun, Des Moines. Grandparents are Tonya Stephens, Vinton, Trevor and Ann Stephens, Vinton. Great grandparents are Tony and Linda Clark, Brandon and Renee and Jerry Stephens, Vinton.
LOCAL MAN QUALIFIES FOR BASS NATIONALS
Justin Schmadeke has qualified for the BASS Nation National fishing tournament at Grand Lake in Grove, OK this coming September. He has made his way through several tournaments to get qualified for this one, starting with the Iowa BASS Nation state tournament in the fall of 2023. By being in the top 10, he was able to move on to fish the BASS Nation qualifier in LaCrosse, WI this past May on the Mississippi River. This was a 3 day tournament in which he was paired with a different person every day. He finished in the top 20 and will now move on to the National tournament in Oklahoma. BASS Nation is a network of local clubs whose members participate in and support tournaments, conservation initiatives and youth programs. Parents are Paul and Andrea Schmadeke. Grandparents are Bob and Mary Anderson and Rita Schmadeke all of Waterloo.
COLLEGE GRADUATE
Carlee Patterson, daughter of Michelle Lamphier, Brandon, graduated recently from the University of Northern Iowa with a degree in Early Education. Carlee graduated with a 3.97 GPA and was a UNI cheerleader for two years.
STATE TUMBLING
Myra Peyton, 14, recently competed at the USTA State Tumbling meet in Marshalltown on April 21, 2024. Myra placed 2nd in her division and 2nd overall and qualified for Nationals to be held the week of June 17, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. She is the daughter of Brian(Bo) and Hilary Peyton, Rowley. Granddaughter of Denise and Doug Lehman, Karen and Wyatt Parkinson and the late Pat Peyton. Great- grandparents are Sharon Koopman, Dolores Novak, Dick (Dorothy Wenger) Lehman.
Derbi Holt, 9, recently competed at the USTA State Tumbling meet in Marshalltown on April 21, 2024. Derbi placed 7thh in her flight and 7th in her division and qualified for Nationals to be held the week of June 17, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. She is the daughter of Austin and Whitney Holt, Independence. Granddaughter of Denise and Doug Lehman, Doug and Kathy Holt. Great- grandparents are Sharon Koopman, Dolores Novak, Dick (Dorothy Wenger) Lehman.
Delaine Holt, 6,recently competed at the USTA State Tumbling meet in Marshalltown on April 21, 2024. Delaine placed 3rd in her division and 6th overall and qualified for Nationals to be held the week of June 17, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. She is the daughter of Austin and Whitney Holt, Independence. Granddaughter of Denise and Doug Lehman, Doug and Kathy Holt. Great- grandparents are Sharon Koopman, Dolores Novak, Dick (Dorothy Wenger) Lehman.
NATIONAL TUMBLING
Myra Peyton, 14, recently competed at the USTA National Tumbling meet in Louisvillle, Kentucky on on June 18, 2024 in the Intermediate division. Myra placed 3rd in her flight and 18th overall of 46 girls in division. She is the daughter of Brian(Bo) and Hilary Peyton, Rowley. Granddaughter of Denise and Doug Lehman, Karen and Wyatt Parkinson and the late Pat Peyton. Great- grandparents are Sharon Koopman, Dolores Novak, Dick (Dorothy Wenger) Lehman.
Derbi Holt, 9, recently competed at the USTA National Tumbling meet on June 20, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky . Derbi placed 8th in her flight and15th out of 20 girls in her division. She is daughter of Austin and Whitney Holt, Independence. Granddaughter of Denise and Doug Lehman, Doug and Kathy Holt. Great- grandparents are Sharon Koopman, Dolores Novak, Dick (Dorothy Wenger) Lehman.
Delaine Holt,6, recently competed at USTA Nationals on June 20, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. Delaine placed 7th in her flight and 23rd out of 56 girls in her division. She is the daughter of Austin and Whitney Holt, Independence. Granddaughter of Denise and Doug Lehman, Doug and Kathy Holt. Great- grandparents are Sharon Koopman, Dolores Novak, Dick (Dorothy Wenger) Lehman.
90th BIRTHDAY
Sharon Bearbower will be celebrating her 90th birthday on June 30, 2024. Even though it will be past her birthday, lets shower her with cards and notes. Sharon Bearbower, 3070 Harrison Avenue, Rowley, IA., 50644.
HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT SOCCER HONORS
Independence High School Girls’ Soccer Program recently honored players for an outstanding season.
WAMAC East Division All Conference Girls Soccer 2023-2024
First team:
Bella Louvar- daughter of Jill and Jack Louvar
Second team:
Olivia Albert- daughter of Susie and Ty Albert
Gracee Cornwell- daughter of Ty and Megan Cornwell
Congratulations on your accomplishments and a stellar season.
WRESTLER QUALIFIES FOR NATIONALS
Indee Mat Club wrestlers competed on May 5, 2024 at IOWA USA wrestling Boys Greco State Tournament. Owen Miller competed in the 16u division, he placed 4th. He qualified for Nationals in Fargo, North Dakota in July. Owen’s parents are Wyatt and Amanda Miller and his grandparents are Beth Carlson, Jim and Sally Leider.
NATIONAL ARCHERY
The Independence Mustang Archers had a banner weekend at N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024. Coaches are Travis Mestad, Dave Harms, Chris Luloff, Jess Luloff, David Gissell, Bo Peyton, Derrick Hess, Travis Shellhorn, James Bumgarner.
Evan Miller, 7th grade, son of Wyatt and Amanda Miller, participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024 He scored a 273 in bullseye. Middle School Boys Rank: 408 out of 2941; 7th Grade Boys Rank: 133 out of 1037;
Overall Boys Rank: 1324 out of 7574.
Evan scored a 269 in centershot. Middle School Boys Rank: 132 out of 436, 7th Grade Boys Rank: 44 out of 148 & Overall Boys Rank: 345 out of 1100. Evan is a member of the Independence Middle School Team. Evan was an Academic Archer. Evan’s grandparents are Beth Carlson, Jim and Sally Leider.
Memphis Peyton, 6th grade, participated in the participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024. He scored 271-Middle School Boys Rank: 506 out of 2941; 6th Grade Boys Rank: 112 out of 911; Overall Boys Rank: 1569 out of 7574. Memphis scored 258 pts in centershot bullseye .Middle School Boys Rank: 221 out of 436; 6th Grade Boys Rank: 65 out of 155; Overall Boys Rank: 551 out of 1100. Memphis was an Academic Archer. Memphis is a member of the Independence Middle School Team. 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, 7th grade, participated in the participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024 Blake scored 258 pts in bullseye Middle School Boys Rank: 1238 out of 2941;7th Grade Boys Rank: 412 out of 1037;
Overall Boys Rank: 3197 out of 7574.Blake is a member of the Independence Middle School Team. Blake’s parents are Tim and Jenny Halligan, Brandon. Grandparents are DC and Angie Halligan and Dennis and Chris Palmer all of Brandon.
NATIONAL ARCHERY Continued
Raelynn Gilliam, 7th grade, participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024. Raelynn scored 274 in bulleye; Middle School Girls Rank: 299 out of 2635; 7th Grade Girls Rank: 93 out of 874; Overall Girls Rank: 934 out of 6920.She is a member of the Independence Middle School team. She was an academic archer. Raelynn is the daughter of Michael Gilliam and granddaughter of Oriel Lee Huxman.
Elizabeth Bumgarner, 7th grade, participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024. She shot 247 in bullseye-Middle School Girls Rank: 1581 out of 2635;7th Grade Girls Rank: 544 out of 874
Overall Girls Rank: 4007 out of 6920. Elizabeth scored 252 pts in centershot bullseye .Middle School Girls Rank: 253 out of 42, 7th Grade Girls Rank: 91 out of 143,Overall Girls Rank: 608 out of 1064. Elizabeth was an Academic Archer. Elizabeth is a member of the Independence Middle School Team .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.
Isabella Johnson, 12th grade,participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024. Isabella scored 294 in bullseye, she earned 7th place.
High School Girls Rank: 7 out of 2496;12th Grade Girls Rank 2 out of 477; Overall Girls Rank: 7 out of 6920. Isabella was chosen for the NASP All American Team. This is huge honor.
Isabella scored 274 pts in centershot . Isabella earned School Girls Rank: 107 out of 399, 12th Grade Girls Rank: 27 out of 71 &Overall Girls Rank: 197 out of 1064. Isabella is a member of the Independence High School Team. She was also an Academic Archer. Isabella's parents are Andrew and Amanda Johnson. Grandparents are Donna Roepke, Independence and Ken and Sandy Johnson, Independence.
Alen Hillard, 10th grade, participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024 Alen scored 267 pts in bullseye. High School Boys Rank: 1202 out of 2513; 10th Grade Boys Rank: 321 out of 664; Overall Boys Rank: 2036 out of 7574. Alen is a member of the Independence High School Team.
Autumn Albert, 6th grade, participated in the N ASP National Archery Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky on May 10-12, 2024 Autumn scored 264 pts in bullseye Middle School Girls Rank: 723 out of 2635; 6th Grade Girls Rank: 169 out of 833; Overall Girls Rank: 1998 out of 6920.
Autumn is a member of the Independence Middle School Team .Autumn was an Academic Archer. Her parents are Derek and Melyssa Albert. Her grand parents are Chuck and Diana Lee and Dan and Anne Lawless
Cooper Smith, 5th grade, participated in the National NASP Tournament in Louisville, Kentucky on May 11 & 12, 2024. Cooper scored 260 pts in centershot bullseye. Elementary Boys Rank: 45 out of 253,5th Grade Boys Rank: 37 out of 149 . Overall Boys Rank: 499 out of 1100. Cooper scored 238 in bullseye-Elementary Boys Rank: 787 out of 2120;5th Grade Boys Rank: 587 out of 1276;
Overall Boys Rank: 5199 out of 7574. Cooper is a member of the Independence Elementary School Team He is the son of Theresa and Tracy Smith.
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THANK YOUS
I would like to thank everyone that came to my surprise 60th Birthday party. I was truly surprised and overwhelmed. It was great to see everyone and I hope I didn’t miss anyone as I went around the room to say hi. Thank you to my wife Denise and our children: Hilary(Bo); Levi(Kim); Whitney(Austin); our grandchildren, Myra, Memphis, Derbi, Jeremiah, Delaine and Isaiah. Thank you to everyone that helped with surprise, desserts, serving the party and cleaning up. Lu and Phyllis for lying their asses off to get Denise to stores and community center to prep food. Sharon, Mary, Judy, Phyllis, Lu, Deb, Annette, Ray, Jannie, Bob, Tony and our kids for set-up. Everyone that helped with clean up- too many for my memory and I am sure to forget someone but the thank you is no less sincere. Thank you for the gifts, cards. I plan to use the money to buy trees. Thank you~ Doug Lehman
Wow- How can we thank everyone for the prayers and positive vibes sent to Elijah and us since his surprise arrival on March 21, 2024 weighing 1.3 pounds. He has had a roller coaster ride since birth 2 surgeries on his intestines, a heart procedure, but through it all he has shown everyone what a tough little guy he is. On his three month birthday (June 21st) he weighed 5 pounds and 8 ounces and is 16.5 inches long! Today, June 26, 2024, Elijah had his 4th surgery this one to reconnect his intestines. The surgery went well, they are monitoring his pain and will watch for signs of infection.
He will be slowly reintroduced to the bottle. We are so in love and proud of our little fighter and can’t wait for the day he comes home. Thank you everyone. ~ Tara and Jesse Berry
I would like to thank everyone who donated and showed up to the Fundraiser. It was a huge success. special thanks to Talena Dudney, for making all the merchandise. Bill Jungling and Pat for smoking the amazing pig. Thanks to Billy Jungling for cutting and donating his hair for children with cancer, and to Matt Price-Silvas cutting it. A huge thank to Angie’s parents Mark and Lisa Johnson for booking Matt Hepker for the fundraiser and hosting it. Donations are still welcomed at Phats Pub and Grub and at P.O.Box 121, Brandon, Iowa. Thank you for the continued support.~ Angie Collier
Note: Angie’s last day of chemo will be July 19th, she plans on going live on her Facebook page.
Our family would like to thank everyone that attended the awards ceremony when our family received the Good Neighbor Award (in memory of Gary Wergin) in late March. Thank you for the cards, texts, phone calls that we received. We are still humbled to be chosen for the award. There are so many good people in and around our community that qualify. We want you all to know it has been an honor to represent Brandon- “A little town we are Proud to call home. ~Craig & Judy Albert Family
DONATIONS TO THE BRANDON BEE
Thank you to the following people for their generous donations to the publication of this newsletter.
Bruce Robinson, Donna Roepke, Karol Smith, Richard and Polly Williams, Ellen Kuriger,
DEADLINE
The deadline for the October, November, December issue of the Brandon Bee is due by September 15, 2024
Editors’ note: Please submit your information to the Brandon Bee to Denise: dndlehman@msn.com or 1684 332nd St., Rowley, IA 52329. Complete issues of the Brandon Bee II will now be published on the Brandon Area Community Club’s website at www.bacciowa.com
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
Marlene Steinbeck, formerly of Brandon, is now residing at Lexington Estates in Independence.
She would be pleased to receive cards and notes to brighten her day.
Marlene Steinbeck
Lexington Estates
1600 1st St East
Independence, Iowa 50644
Samantha McKinley, wife of Cliff McKinley, rural Walker is doing well on her road to recovery.
Samantha and Cliff have three children, Ruger, Sage, and Landry. We really appreciate your help and support.
Samantha McKinley
3384 King Ave
Walker, Iowa 52352
Brian Larson, husband of Sarah, Jesup, formerly of Brandon. Brian and Sarah have two children Lexie and Alana. Brian’s parents are Deb Larson, rural Brandon and Rick Larson, Brandon.
Brian Larson
13134 Dubuque Road
Jesup, Iowa 50648
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
Caring pages continued
Michelle Erger, is experiencing a health crisis and is need of a new kidney Please brighten her day with a note of encouragement. Michelle is still in URGENT need of a kidney donor. Please contact her if you are interested in helping her out.
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
Angie Collier, was recently diagnosed with cancer and is currently undergoing treatments. Please brighten her day with a card or note.
Angie Collier
Box 121
Brandon, Iowa 52210
Bill Mitchell, has been undergoing dialysis for a few years, he is in URGENT need of a kidney donor.
Eligible donors can be 25-65 years of age. Please contact Bill for information on being his donor.
Bill Mitchell
3174 Daniel Ave
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
Marie Bistline, Brandon, is currently residing at West Village in Independence. Please brighten her day with a card a note.
Marie Bistline
ABCM West Care Center
1610 3rd Street NE
Independence, IA 50644
Bret Dage, Brandon was in an accident with a tractor. He has severe injuries from the accident but is recovering at home. Please send him a card to brighten his recovery.
Bret Dage
2869 Gabriel Ave
Brandon, Iowa 52210
OBITUARIES:
Bruce Glenn Robinson, age 88, of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2024, at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.
Bruce was born in 1936 to Glenn and Winifred Robinson in Rhodes, Iowa.
Bruce spent some of his childhood in Brandon, but moved with his family to St Paul, MN, and attended Murray High School. After graduation, Bruce joined the US Army and worked as a helicopter mechanic in Karlsruhe, Germany.
Bruce was proud of his work at the Cadillac garage following his discharge from the army. He then went on and worked at 3M company for 36 years before retiring. Bruce moved to Grand Rapids 15 years ago to enjoy the lakes, woods, and to be closer to his children.
Bruce especially loved cars and motors, gardening, fishing, and dogs, and he was a master at making apple pies from the many apple trees he had planted during his life. He was a creative inventor and looked at many things as a problem to be solved.
He was a great storyteller and loved socializing with his friends and family. He was an active conservationist and enjoyed reading, politics, and travel. He and his dear friend Donna did many projects and activities together but especially treasured the time gardening together and sharing the fruits of their labors with friends.
Bruce is survived by his son, Gregory Robinson, of Jacobson, MN; daughter, Julie Robinson of Grand Rapids, MN; sister, Lonnie (Murray) Levin of Philadelphia, PA; dear friend, Donna Waech of Grand Rapids, MN; and many very special friends, cousins, nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life is planned for later this summer.
Memorials are preferred to the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation or Independent School District 318 Endowment Fund
Nadine Frances (Selk) Fisher, 92, died Sunday, June 9, 2024, at the Vinton Lutheran Home.
Funeral Services were held on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel (212 E. 6th Street) in Vinton. Private Committal Services will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Vinton.
Nadine was born on December 1, 1931, on the family farm North of Keystone, to Louis and Flossie (Ripple) Selk. She graduated from Keystone High School with the class of 1949.
She was united in marriage to Richard Fisher on January 18, 1950, in Vinton. They were happily married for 52 years, prior to Richard’s death in 2002. Nadine’s family were the most important aspect of her life. She truly enjoyed following the activities of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She and Richard particularly enjoyed family camping trips through the years. She was a longtime member of the Vinton Presbyterian Church and the sewing Circle
Nadine is survived by her children, Robert (Skita) Fisher, Roger (Lynn) Fisher, Rhonda Mc Clung, and Rocky (Jackie) Fisher, all of Vinton; 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; 3 sisters, La Vonne Henkel, and Joanne Walker, both of Vinton; Dianne (Richard) Hagerty of Dysart; sister-in-law Betty Selk, and brother, Lynn (Brenda) Selk, all of Keystone.
In addition to her parents and husband Richard, Nadine was preceded in death by her infant son, Richard; granddaughter Jericho; brother, Lanny Selk, and sister Ila Mills.
Online Condolences: www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com
Charles L. Brown, 85, of Independence, IA, died on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Lexington Estates in Independence, IA.
Charles was born on January 16, 1939, in rural Troy Mills, IA, the son of Lyle and Ada P. (Price) Brown. He grew up on a small farm outside of Coggon, IA, in an area known as Sodtown. Charles attended the rural country schools, and when he finished school he started working on the family farm and helped on his neighbor’s farms. He went on to work at the National Oats Company in Cedar Rapids, IA, for several years. In 1970, He started a long career in roofing. Charles worked for over thirty years mostly doing Hot Tar Roofs with the AD Holts Roofing Company in Cedar Rapids. He finally retired in 2000.
On February 29, 1960, Charles married Janice Moriarty. Together they had five children, Penny, Vicky, Charles, Michael, and Daniel. They were later divorced.
On March 21, 1970, Charles later was remarried. He married Nancy Merrifield. Together they made their home in rural Walker, IA, and had six children, Darrell, Steve, Laurie, Peggy, Tonya, and Shawn.
He is survived by nine children: Charles (Ruth) Brown, Dubuque, IA, Michael (Joan) Brown, Brandon, IA, Daniel (Wendy) Brown, Winthrop, IA, Darrell (Christine) Brown, Independence, IA, Steven Brown, Independence, IA, Laurie (Jeff McDonald) Brown, Quasqueton, IA, Peggy (John Fennern) Mikesell, Cedar Rapids, IA, Tonya (Billy) McGonicle, Cedar Falls, IA, and Shawn Brown, Independence, IA, thirty-nine grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren, a brother, Ronald (Judy) Brown, Bowling Brook, IL, a sister, Irene Pyle, Knoxville, TN, and many nieces and nephews.
Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Ada Brown, his wife, Nancy Brown, two children; Penny Bailey and Vicky Cornwell, three sisters; Joyce Streeter, Sharon Coal, and Janet Noethe, and two brothers; Tom and Albert Brown.
A Graveside service was held on Monday, April 29, 2024, at the Spring Grove Cemetery in rural Coggon, IA. The Reiff Family Center – Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.
Bruce Eugene Bauer, 77, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at his home in Vinton, due to a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by his family and beloved French Bulldogs, Lucy and Harley,
A visitation was held on, Friday, May 31, 2024 at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel (212 E. 6th Street in Vinton) with a memorial service and time for sharing beginning at 10:45 AM. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Vinton.
Bruce was born July 22, 1946, in Vinton, Iowa, the son of Walter and Lucille (Kavalier) Bauer. He graduated from Washington High School in Vinton with the class of 1964. Bruce married Carla Primmer on September 6, 1963, at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Vinton. The couple were married for almost 48 years, prior to Carla’s death in 2011.
Bruce worked as a machinist at Rockwell-Collins for many years, and worked closely with the engineers, testing various ideas prior to production. He was an accomplished wood worker and craftsman and enjoyed camping with family as well as fishing.
Bruce is survived by his 3 children, Brett (Danelle) Bauer, and their son Jack; Betty Jo (Bryan) Fancher, and their two children, Zachary (Brianna) and their 2 children, Elaina, and Elijah, and Ansley; Beth (Jim) Mayhew, and their 2 children, Cory (Katlyn) and their two sons, Rhett and Warren, and Nicolas; 2 brothers, Walter Bauer, and Steve Bauer, Brandon, and 3 sisters, LaVon Bearbower, Brandon, Karen Johnson, and Sherri McGowan, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife Carla.
James Edwin Long, 84, died at his home Monday, May 6, 2024, in Vinton, Iowa.
Funeral services were on Friday, May 10, 2024 at 10:30 at the funeral home, with Pastor Randy Nash officiating. Burial will be at Bear Creek Cemetery at a later date.
Jim was born on May 16, 1939, in Polk Township, Benton County, Iowa, he was the son of Clark and Maxine Lindsay Long. He attended Urbana Community School and graduated in 1957. Within days of graduation, he entered the U.S. Army serving his country and spent time in Germany. He was discharged in 1959.
He and Martha Geater were united in marriage in January 1960. The couple had three sons, Jimmy, Ron and John.
Jim farmed before he began traveling the country working for a number of cross-country haulers. He retired from driving semi in 2005. In his retirement, he spent his days checking cows, watching the events at the local sale barns and enjoying the results of the hard work of his nieces, nephew and grandchildren in the showing.
He enjoyed membership to several state American Shorthorn breed organizations and the American Legion George G Luckey Post 57, Vinton.
He is survived by his wife, Martha; his sons, Jimmy (Chris), Josh, Jessie and Jakob; Ron; John (Brooke), Grant, Derrick, Paige, Kamden and Jensen; seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Mildred Kisling, Vinton; three sisters-in-law, Diane Long, Vinton; Mary Geater, Vinton; and Jane (David) Kaiser, Dysart; two brothers-in-law, Rick (Beth) Geater, Vinton; Dale Robertson, Texas; many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Wayne; one sister, Helen; one brother-in-law, Roger Geater; along with several nieces and nephews.
Area Community Town Celebrations
**July 4th- Independence- Parade 9 am
**July 4th- Aurora- Parade 1pm City of Aurora 125th year Celebration
July 27th- Rowley- Parade 10 am Rowley Days July 26-28th :”Let’s Get Tropical”
**July 27th- Walker -Parade 6pm Walker Pickle Days26-27th “Relish the Good Times”
August 3rd- Brandon - Parade 10 am Brandon Days August 2 & 3rd “Space Adventures
August 3rd- Lamont - Parade 11 am Lamont Days August 2 and 3rd “Bring your Pet to the Parade”
**August 3rd-Urbana Days- Parade 10 a Urbana Days August 2 and 3rd-Fireworks- Aug 2nd
September 14th-Mt. Auburn Annual Hog Roast and Street Dance
**denotes Fireworks
See any Brandon Area Community Club Member to purchase Raffle tickets: $1 each/6 for $5
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