Brandon bee ii
Issue # 132 October, November, December 2023
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS PRESENTED
The BACC gives out a Community Service Award to local area persons that have made a difference in our community. This year’s recipients were Brian (Buddy) and Kelly Thomas. The Thomases are very active in the Brandon community. They are members of the BACC, City Council members, Business owners, Members of the Fire Department and First responders. They are active members of the Brandon Methodist Church. Buddy and Kelly have two daughters, Amy and Ashlee. Congratulations on this well deserved recognition.
HALLOWEEN PARTY
BACC will hold their annual Halloween party on Sunday, October 29, 2023 at the Brandon Area Community Center from 1-3 pm. Activities include games, food, door prizes and costume contests.
Area children age 0- 6th grade. If you would like to donate food or help with food the day of the party, please contact Judy Albert (563) 920- 7880. If you want to donate door prizes please contact Denise 319-404-8472. If you wish to help with the games or activities please contact Theresa Stacy 319-721-9675.
TRUNK OR TREAT
If you wish to participate in Trunk or Treat, please join others at the Brandon Area Community center, Halloween Night from 5-7.
TRICK OR TREAT
The City of Brandon will have Trick or Treating on October 31st from 5-7 pm.
THANKSGIVING MEAL
Please join us for our 12th annual Family and Friends Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 23, 2023, from 11 am- 1pm at the Brandon Area Community Center.
Ham, turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, salads and desserts will be served at this year’s dinner.
The meal is free, but if you would please bring can goods or non perishable food items for distribution to local families in need. Any monetary donations will stay in the community to help local organizations or people in need.
If you would like to donate toward the dinner please contact Judy Albert at 563-920-7880
Craig~Judy~Jordy Albert, Jackie~Shawn Aberle and Family
BRANDON AREA COMMUNITY CLUB NEWS:
GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP
The BACC is planning a Gingerbread House workshop on Sunday, November 26, 2023 for children of all ages (adults too!) 1- 3 p.m. We will provide constructed gingerbread houses and you and/or your child can come and decorate a house. This is a fun activity of everyone. Houses, candies and frosting will be provided, just bring your imagination. Cost of this event will be $15 per person.
You MUST pre-register for this event so we can have enough houses for each participant. Please contact Denise 319-404-8472 or Phyllis 319-327-0520. by November 12th to reserve your spot. All houses will be displayed at the Christmas Festival the following weekend.
MINIATURE CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATING
The BACC will hold a Miniature tree decorating in conjunction with the Christmas festival.
This is open to anyone wishing to decorate a small tree. The trees will be provided by the BACC.
You MUST reserve a tree to decorate by November 12th. A BACC member will deliver a tree to you the week of November 13th and you will need to have it decorated and return by December 1st at noon. Watch for more details. To reserve a tree call Denise 319-404-8472 or Theresa Stacy 319-721-9675.
BRANDON CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
BRANDON, IOWA 31th ANNUAL DECEMBER 1 & 2, 2023
CANDY CANE LANE at the BRANDON AREA COMMUNITY CENTER
802 Main St. Brandon, IA
BOTH NIGHTS: FRIDAY DEC 2nd~5- 9 pm AND SATURDAY DEC 3rd~ 4:30- 8:30 pm
Wreath/ Basket Auction- If you are interested in donating a gift basket to the auction or decorate a wreath (we will provide you with a wreath or you can use your own). Please contact Denise Lehman 319-404-8472 or Theresa Stacy 319-721-9675.
Raffle – Raffle items donated by local artisans will be for raffle. If you would like to donate a raffle item please contact Phyllis at 319-327-2520.
Free Hot Cocoa, Cookies, Kettle Popcorn
Visit Santa and Have your picture taken.
Friday Night December 1st: Soup and Sandwiches at the Brandon Methodist Church.
This event is a fundraiser for the Brandon Historical Society. The Historical Society members will make and serve the meal. Serving 4:30 to 7:30 pm
Saturday Night December 2nd: Soup and Sandwiches at the Brandon Methodist Church.
This event is a fundraiser for the Brandon United Methodist Youth Group. The Youth Group members will make and serve the meal. Serving 4:30 to 7:30 pm
CONCESSION STAND PROJECT
The concession is nearly complete. We are lacking funds for the landscaping phase of the project.
We were hoping to do this in 2023 but are now looking to complete it in the spring of 2024.
If you would like to donate to this project, please send donations to BACC, Box 163, Brandon, Iowa 52210.
COWBOY BREAKFAST
The Brandon Area Community Club held its 32nd Cowboy Breakfast on Sunday, September 17, 2023. We served over 900 meals on a beautiful fall morning. Proceeds go to the Community Center Fund.
The BACC wishes to thank everyone who volunteered to help make this a successful fund raiser.
Thank you to those that donated toward our breakfast, Todd and Denise Wiley (Interstate Swine), Mark’s Locker, Skinny Stiks Maple Syrup, Fareway-Independence, Market Fresh- Independence.
Mark your calendar for the 2024 breakfast on Sunday, September 15th.
BAGS TOURNAMENTS:
The dates for bags for this season have been set! Please bring your own drinks and a
snack to share. We hope to have a great turnout this year!
Bags start at 4:30 pm each night
Bags is $5 per person
October 8th
November 12th
January14th
February 11th
March 10th
April 14th
BRANDON METHODIST CHURCH NEWS:
CAMP COURAGEOUS
Volunteer Day at Camp Courageous will be Wednesday, October 10th. We will be leaving from the Brandon Methodist Church at 8 am. Anyone wishing to join us should contact Bev Bearbower for details at 319-269-9095.
CHRISTMAS TEA
The Brandon United Methodist women will be hosting a Christmas Tea on Monday, December 4th,
1-3 pm, at the Brandon United Methodist Church. Women of the Community are welcome to join us on this the national “All you can eat” day. It is a relaxing reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
BASH
BASH is an after school monthly program for children in kindergarten through 5th grade are welcome to attend. The sessions start after school (4:15- 5:30). Each month there is a program, an activity and snacks. Dates for this school year are October 4th, November 1st ,December 6th, February 7th, March 6th, April 3rd. For more information, please contact Kelly Thomas 319-361-0031 or Hilary Peyton 319-404-8473
UMW FALL SUPPER
The Annual Homemade Chicken and Noodle Supper was held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at the Brandon United Methodist Church. Menu included Homemade Chicken and Noodles, Mashed Potatoes, Squash, Green Beans, salad bar and desserts. We were please with the turnout. We had taken orders for quarts of Chicken and noodles ahead of the supper and had orders for 160 quarts of extra chicken and noodles.
We served about 303 meals, 220 quarts of extra chicken and noodles and 44 pies.
We made 20 batches (25 dozen eggs) of dry egg noodles, 290 pounds of chicken, 110 pounds potatoes, 200 pounds butternut squash, 16 gallons green beans. We cooked 53 pots or 26 (roasters) of Chicken and Noodles and one gluten free batch of chicken and noodles.
We wish to thank everyone that came and supported our meal and bazaar.
Special thank you to Lopata Farms, Quasqueton, for the donation of the squash for the supper.
BRANDON METHODIST WOMEN SEEKS NEW MEMBERS
The Brandon Methodist Women (new name United Women in Faith) are seeking area women to join our groups. You do not have to be a member of the Methodist Church to join one of our groups and enjoy Christian Fellowship,
Rachel Circle meets the 4th Tuesday of the month at the Church during the day.
Mary Circle meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Church at 7 pm.
UMW (United Women in Faith) meet the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7 pm.
If you are interested in joining us in one or more of these groups contact Denise 319-404-8472.
BRANDON METHODIST YOUTH GROUP
Youth group members had a good time decorating a float for the Brandon parade on August 5. We were honored and thrilled to have local Veterans ride on our float with the theme of "Willing Sacrifices."
Members held their first meeting of the school year on September 10 and made plans for activities through the end of the year. Here are some upcoming events:
*September 23 - help at the annual fall supper
*November 5 or 12 - rake leaves at the church yard
*November 26 - ring the Salvation Army Bell
*December 2 - serve soup and sandwiches during the Christmas festival
Plans are in the works to perform a Christmas skit during church in December and to find an afternoon to go do something fun! We are also going to be painting a few kindness rocks to share in the community.
If you know of a student in grades 4-12, send them our way! Call Rachel at 319-551-4794 or Dawnye at 319-334-0163 for more information.
BRANDON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH~ Pastor Luke Evans
507 Main Street
Pastor’s contact information:
Rev. Luke Evans
P.O. Box 125
Brandon, Iowa 52210 712-898-4834 pastorlukeevans@gmail.com
BRANDON CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST NEWS:
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.
Christmas Festival: Due to the construction/remodel project at the Brandon Church of Jesus Christ, their plans for the Christmas weekend are uncertain but will most likely include a performance at the Methodist Church during Christmas Festival. Please watch Facebook for updates.
CONNIE’S QUILTERS
The local quilting/sewing group, Connie’s Quilters would like to invite ANYONE to join our fun
Group. We meet at Connie’s home at 204 Main St. at1 pm every Monday. Thank you for the donation of yard goods that we use to make our lap quilts. We continue to donate quilts to various individuals and organizations.
BRANDON COMMUNITY SUPPER
The Brandon Community Supper is tentatively plan for Saturday, November 18, 2023, 6 pm at the Brandon United Methodist Church. Brandon Area residents are invited for the evening meal, to be provided by the church. Please watch Facebook for additional information.
ALL-CONFERENCE SOFTBALL
The following area Independence High School Softball players have been selected for all-conference softball teams:
1st Team: Marleigh Louvar- Senior Infield
2nd Team:- Arabella Louvar- Sophmore Outfield
4A ALL DISTRICT SOFTBALL TEAM SELECTIONS
4A Northeast
Marleigh Louvar- 12th grade- Independence
THANK YOUS
The Kiler family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation for the kindness and love shown during the illness and recent passing of our loved one, Barb Kiler. We are forever grateful for the prayers, flowers and community support. Your kindness will never be forgotten.~Barb Kiler Family
I would like to thank the BACC committee for choosing me to the Grand Marshall of the 2023 Brandon Days Parade. I was honored to be chosen and had a wonderful day. Thank you all my family that came to celebrate with me. There were 94 of my children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and spouses, plus nieces and nephews. It was great day.~ Dolores Novak
Doug and I would like to thank everyone that has helped us over the last two years with my illness, getting me to and from doctor appointments, therapy and shopping. Thank you to everyone that helped to get our house finished so I am no longer a cellar dweller. We appreciate you friendship and support. ~ Denise Lehman
The BACC committee (which consists of Guy & Theresa Stacy, Patrick Lehman, Michelle Lamphier,Judy Albert, Doug & Denise Lehman, Beth Carlson, Phyllis Clark, Jackie Hoffman and Brian & Kelly Thomas) would like to thank the following people for their help in making Brandon Days a success:
Breakfast Burritos: Hilary Peyton, Amanda Miller & Theresa Stacy
Parade: Kelly Thomas and Tally Aldrich- ALL ENTRIES to the parade!!
Parade Judges: Raleigh and Sherri Truax, Ty and Megan Cornwell, Diana Conrad, Linda Clark, Kathy Boots and Sharon Koopman.
Horseshoes: Tony Clark and Dustin Clark
Bags Tournament: Jeremy Nichol, Lydel Kiler, Denny Donley and Rachel Webster
Tractorcade: Craig, Judy, Jordan Albert
Pie/Brownie Booth: Brandon Methodist Women
Big Ball Tournament- Cameron Bantz and Crew
Kids Games and Bags Tournament- Theresa Stacy, Guy Stacy, Patrick Lehman, Michelle Lamphier and Theresa’s Crew
Auction: Dick Lehman, Chip and Jackie Hoffman, Hilary Peyton, Sharon Koopman,
Denise Lehman, Doug Lehman, Whitney Holt, Myra Peyton, Derbi and Delaine Holt.
Concessions: Judy Albert, Phyllis Clark and ALL VOLUNTEERS- too numerous to list but no less
important!!.
A SPECIAL thank you to the family of Dolores Novak for their help at the Community supper. They not only help prep food and serve it but they did the clean up also. The BACC are very appreciative of their assistance.
MOBILE FOOD PANTRY
The Brandon Mobile Food Pantry is held on the 4th Wednesday of each month. The upcoming dates
are: October 25, November 15 and December 20. Please note that because of the holidays the food
pantry will be on the 3rd Wednesday in November and December.
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. In case of inclement weather and
the food pantry is post phoned we will put the notification on KWWL TV and The Brandon Area
Community Club Facebook Page. It will also be on the Northeast Iowa Food Bank Facebook page.
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.
BEAR CREEK RESTORATION
BRANDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Brandon Historical Society continues to work on restoring the Bank Building into a museum.
We will be replacing all the doors and windows on the first floor in the next couple of weeks. We are in the process of getting an estimate for plumbing of the bathroom and have received a wonderful donation of all the bathroom fixtures. Continued volunteerism is greatly needed as the project progresses. If you would like to volunteer please contact Diana Conrad at 319-327-3424.
If anyone has any photos of the large sign that was called the “Honor Roll”. It listed all of the Brandon Area Veterans. Originally it was outside the hall and then later moved to Liken’s building. We would appreciate having a picture of it or the sign itself.
Monetary donations can be sent to Brandon Historical Society, 502 Main Street, Brandon, IA 52210.
New members are always welcome and is open to anyone with an interest in local heritage. ~ Diana Conrad
BRANDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY AWARDED GRANT
The Brandon Historical Society with great appreciation and gratitude would like to thank the BUCHANAN COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION for the $10,000 grant. We applied for the grant through the foundation this spring and we awarded the grand on July 26, 2023 at a ceremony at the Independence Public Library. This grant money will be used to purchase the new windows on the first floor. Thank you BCCF.
BRANDON GARDEN CLUB AWARDS BEAUTIFICATION AWARD
The Brandon Garden Club awarded their annual Garden Club Beatification Award to Denise and Jack
Wolf at 603 Main Street. They added a new flower bed in their yard. Congratulations.
This year we awarded a country Beatification Award to Darlys and Paul Rogers in recognition of the
flower beds and garden they have. Congratulations.
The Garden Club entered a float in the Brandon Days Parade. We titled our float “God Bless America”.and were pleased to receive First Place in the organization division.
We will have our last meeting of the year on October 23rd at Karol Smith’s home.
We usually meet on the 4th Monday of the month at Karol Smith’s home beginning at 6:30 p.m. Any
new members are always welcome. Contact Karol Smith for further info – 319-329-0101.
85th BIRTHDAY OPEN HOUSE
The family of Sharon (Mathews) (Lehman) Koopman will be hosting an 85th birthday celebration on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at the Brandon Area Community Center. The Open house will be from 1 pm to 3 pm. Please join us in celebrating Sharon with luncheon in her honor.
WEDDINGS:
Ryan Corkery, Brandon and Kellie Alexander were married on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at the Brandon Area Community Center with Lu Horak officiating. A Dance and reception followed the wedding ceremony. Parents of the couple are Vince and Bobbi Corkery and Steve and Colleen Alexander. Congratulations to the couple.
BIRTHS
Alyssa and Ricki Bradshaw- Cue are pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Desiree Jo Ann Bradshaw-Cue. Desiree was born on September 15, 2023 at 10:31 pm. She weighed 6 pounds 3 ounces and was 19 inches long. Grandparents are Sara and Robert Bradshaw, Brandon and Robert Parker and Marleys Cue.
25TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
John and Wendy Hoffman celebrated 25 years of marriage with a trip to Negril, Jamaica over their anniversary and a party with their family and friends in September at their home. John Hoffman (son of Ed and Roberta Hoffman of Martelle) and Wendy Duello (Daughter of Roger and Diana Duello of Brandon) were married August 22, 1998, at Indian Creek Country Club in Cedar Rapids, IA. The couple have two children and three grandchildren: Amanda (Mark) Bockholt, Addyson and Alexis of Fairbank and Ashley (Brian) DeSloover and Lucy of Winthrop. The Hoffman’s have made their home in Urbana for the last 19 years.
KIDNEY DONOR NEEDED
Michelle Erger of Brandon is in need of a kidney donor. Michelle will soon begin dialysis as she awaits a new kidney. To find out if you are eligible to be a donor go to uiowa.donorscreen.org.
Taking a few minutes to register could change a life. From the website I was able to glean the following information:
Criteria for kidney donation
To donate a kidney, you must be in good health and have normal kidney function and anatomy. If the donor meets the criteria for donation, additional testing will be required to check for further compatibility (cross matching and tissue typing) as well as physical examinations and psychological evaluation. Immunosuppression medications, which keep the recipient's body from rejecting the donor kidney, have improved greatly over the last few years. Now, a genetic link between the donor and recipient does not appear to be necessary to ensure a successful transplant.
To begin the process
Your first step is to contact the potential recipient's transplant center. You should ask to speak with the living donor transplant coordinator, who can give you additional information about living donation, and help you get started by completing a health screening questionnaire.
Begin the Kidney Live Donor Health Screening questionnaire
You may wish to familiarize yourself with the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) resources for living donation. And read more about living kidney donation at the National Kidney Foundation website. If you live far away from the transplant center, you'll be referred to a center in your area for initial testing.
FIRE CLAIMS LOCAL HOME
In the early morning hours of August 22, 2023 a fire destroyed the home of Tony and Linda Clark of rural Brandon. The following is a note from the couple.
We would like to express our appreciation for all of the outpouring of prayers and encouragement that Tony and I have received from so many people. It was very hard to see our home burned down. So many memories and good times will never be had again. The original house was built in the 1850’s. So it had been around a lot of generations. I am grateful that Tony got out with his life along with our cat.
Thanks again for everyone who brought clothes and shoes. We have enough to get us by. As of now we are not buying or taking anything until we have a new home to put it in. Hopefully that will not take too long.
Here’s to our new adventure!
Tony and Linda Clark
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
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. The family has move into their new home. Thank you to all who helped with fundraisers, construction, painting, decorating and moving. 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 and Rick Larson, rural 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
Michelle Erger, is experiencing a health crisis and is need of a new kidney ( See separate article about her need of a donor). Please brighten her day with a note of encouragement.
Michelle Erger
308 Main Street
Brandon, Iowa 52210
DEADLINE:
The deadline for the January, February, March issue of the Brandon Bee is due by December 15, 2023.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 will now be published on the Brandon Area Community Club’s website at www.bacciowa.com.
I was asked about the cost of publication of an issue of the Brandon Bee II. It is an average of $180.00 per issue. The cost is paid by the Brandon Area Community Club’s general fund.
We thank the following monetary donors to the Brandon Bee II : Walt and Sharon Bauer, Lois Yerkes,
LaVonne Henkel.
COPY CAT BRACH’S NOUGAT RECIPE
NOUGAT
2 TABLESPOONS BUTTER
2 BAGS MINI MARSHMALLOWS (250g per bag)
2 BAGS WHITE CHOCOLATE CHIPS (225 g per bag)
2 cups DOTS gum drops
Melt first 3 ingredients together until smooth. Mix in DOTS gumdrops. Spread on parchment paper lined 9 x 13 pan. Chill overnight in fridge. Cut into squares.
OBITUARIES
Helen Fern Martz Purdy was born November 1, 1930, to William and Fern Martz in Vinton, Iowa. Helen married Harold W. Purdy on June 22, 1949, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1961, they made a home and raised their family in Brandon, Iowa. She was an active member of the Brandon United Methodist Church, BASH, Garden Club, Women’s Club, VFW Auxiliary, and the Red Hat Society. Helen worked at Vinton Produce and worked providing samples at various grocery stores. She and Harold owned Purdy’s Antiques in Independence from 1984-1993.
Helen loved gatherings with family and friends. She enjoyed hosting family and baking large meals for them. Her Brandon Days party was always popular with friends and family and she was the Grand Marshall of the Brandon Days parade in 2019. Helen also loved playing cards and belonged to several card clubs with friends.
Survivors include two daughters Dianna Bass of New Hartford, Iowa, and Deb (Curt) Martin of Independence, Iowa; a son Roger (Rose) Purdy of Tyler, Texas; eight grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and a brother Larry (Janet) Martz of Muscatine.
Helen is preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; three brothers; a son-in-law and a granddaughter.
A Funeral Service was held on Friday, July 28, 2023, at the United Methodist Church in Brandon, IA. Burial Will be held at Brandon Cemetery. Reiff Family Center – Funeral Home & Crematory in Independence, IA was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to Camp Courageous.
Barbara A. Kiler, 84, of Brandon, IA, died on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at her home in Brandon, IA.
Barbara was born on January 31, 1939, in Waterloo, IA, the daughter of James and Laura (Marsh) Bowers. She was raised in Brandon, IA, and attended the Brandon Community Schools. On November 8, 1956, Barbara married Lytell H. Kiler in Princeton, MO. They lived in Denver and La Porte City, IA, for a short time before making Brandon, IA their forever home again. She loved the town of Brandon and in a small town like that; she didn’t just raise her eight children. In her own way she had touched the lives of all the children raised there. Mostly through driving the school bus for thirty-five years, and her oatmeal cookies.
She liked being home and didn’t travel often. But when she did it was for family. Barbara and Lytell traveled all over Iowa to attend all of their children's and grandchildren's school events. They were their biggest fans.
She is survived by her husband, Lytell Kiler, Brandon, IA, five sons; Perry (Deb) Kiler, Kansas City, KS, Kale (Shelly) Kiler, Kansas City, KS, Randy Kiler, La Porte City, IA, Karl (Angie) Kiler, Quasqueton, IA, and LyDell Kiler, Brandon, IA, a daughter, Keeme Robinson, Brandon, IA, a daughter-in-law, Kay Kiler, West Branch, IA, fourteen grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, on great-grandchild, a sister Janice Dewit, La Porte City, IA a brother-in-law, Don Krull, and many nieces and nephews. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, James and Laura Bowers, two sons, Kevin and Lynial Kiler, a daughter-in-law, Rhonda Kiler, a brother, Larry Bowers, a sister LaVonna Krull, and a brother-in-law, Bob Dewitt.
A visitation was held on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at the Reiff Family Center – Funeral Home & Crematory in Independence, IA. A Private Graveside service will be held at the Brandon Cemetery in Brandon, IA.
Rosemary Sue (Phillips) Primus, age 73, died Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at her home in Urbana, following a sudden illness.
A celebration of Rosemary’s life was held onTuesday, August 29, 2023 at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel (212 E. 6th Street) in Vinton.
Rosemary was born on February 15, 1950, in Vinton, IA, the daughter of Donald and Bessie (Van Fossen) Phillips. She graduated from Urbana High School with the class of 1968. Rosemary worked at Whirlpool in Amana for a number of years prior to her retirement.
Survivors include her siblings, Peggy (Dan Poole) Munsell of Granite Falls, NC, Melvin Phillips of Urbana, Evalina (Arlyn) Sieck of Center Point, Mark Phillips of Brandon; and many nieces and nephews. Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents; sister Barbara Rick; and brother Billy Phillips.
Steven “Steve” Payne, 75, of Mt. Auburn, died Friday, July 28, 2023 at Mercy One in Mason City. There will be no services at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 26, 2023 at the Mt. Auburn Legion Hall.. Van Steenhuyse-Teahen Funeral Home is serving the family.
Steve was born February 28, 1948 in Waterloo, the son of Robert and Shirley (Quinn) Payne. He attended school in La Porte City. On October 15, 1966, he was united in marriage to Laura Reninger in Janesville. He was employed by John Deere in Waterloo for 32 years. He then worked for Mt. Auburn Grain as well as helping local farmers.
Steve was a car enthusiast, enjoyed working with horses, welcomed foreign exchange students into his home, loved teasing his grandchildren and sitting in his swing under the maple tree.
Steve is survived by his wife of 56 years, Laura; three sons: Larry Payne, Gene (Diane) Payne and Tom (Katie) Payne; daughter, Louise (Scott) Fleming; thirteen grandchildren: Megan (Ryan) Peterson, Cody Payne, Hannah Kim, Rebecca Payne, Jason Payne, Jeremiah Lee, Christopher, Alana, Katelyn and Madison Fleming, Jamisen Payne, Livia Watts and Adrien Watts; four great-grandchildren: Gracelynn, Casen, Raelynn and Octavia; and three sisters: Sandra Hayungs, Regina (Jeff) Christenson and Ramona Wolfe. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Harold D. Allen, 88 years old of Jesup, Iowa, died surrounded by his family, Thursday, August 24, 2023, at ABCM Rehabilitation Center-West, Independence, Iowa.
Public visitation was Monday, August 28, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the White Funeral Home, Jesup.
Family graveside services were 10 a.m., Tuesday, August 29, at Cedar Crest Cemetery, Jesup. Military rites were conducted by Pump-Scheer American Legion Post 342 of Jesup. Memorials will be directed to Jesup Public Library, Cedar Valley Hospice and The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society.
Harold was born August 11, 1935, in Springdale, Arkansas, the son of Harold Louis Allen and Louinza Rachel (Gabbard) Allen. He graduated from Waterloo West High School in 1954. He also attended the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. On July 31, 1959, he was united in marriage to Verlyn Kay Davidson in Dubuque. Harold was a supervisor and Personnel manager at John Deere Component Works, retiring in 1986. He served in the 11th Airborne Division of the US Army from 1954 – 1958, where he was a parachute rigger and became Jump Master. He was stationed in Germany for 2 years. Harold was a member of Zion Lutheran Church-Jubilee, rural La Porte City
.
Harold is survived by his wife, Verlyn "Verdi" Allen of Jesup; two daughters, Christi (Dennis) Palmer of Brandon, Kara (Randy) Backes of Jesup; two sons, Craig (Mary Lee) Allen of rural Independence, Kelly (Valerie) Allen of Peosta; 12 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren and one on the way; two brothers and four sisters. His parents and one great grandson preceded him in death.
White Funeral Home, Jesup, is in charge of the arrangements.
Eugene Close, Gene was born on October 28, 1947 to Martin Minniffee Close and Lucy Georgiana Close (Sellers) in Brandon, IA. Gene, after getting his high school diploma, went on to serve in the United States Army where he fought in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged from the Army and received both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his service. Gene went on to attend college at the University of Missouri – Rolla and earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Science. Gene worked as a software data analyst for Lennox Heating and Air for 35 years.
On April 24, 1971, Gene married the love of his life, Rozella Marie Schmitz in La Porte City, IA. They went on to have 3 children, Jeffery (Jeff) Martin, Amy Michelle, and William (Bill) John. Gene was blessed with one grandson, Garrett Michael Welby.
The things Gene loved most in life were family first, especially his wife Rozella, his work with the American Legion, fishing, going to the range, and flying for lunch with his friends.
Gene was predeceased by his beloved wife Rozella Marie, his parents Martin Minniffee and Lucy Georgiana, his brother Alvin Beryl Close (Denise), and his sister Ruth Elaine Close.
Gene is survived by his children Jeff Close (Heather), Amy Welby (Marc), Bill Close, his grandson Garrett Welby, his siblings Patricia Bumgarner, Diana Vonhagen (Dave), Paul Close, Ben Close, Sharon Kimmerle (Gary), Anthony Close (Kathy), Christopher Close (Amy) Rachel Webster (Kevin), Tim Close, and many nieces and nephews.
Services were held at Allen Funeral Home, Wylie, TX. The visitation was on Friday July 7, 2023 The funeral service were held July 8, 2023.
Karen Marie Trumbauer Finley, 81, of Independence, IA, died Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at home, of end stage renal disease.
She was born November 21, 1941, at the family home in Jesup, IA, the daughter of Vernon LeRoy and Elsa Marie (Christy) Trumbauer. On July 12, 1959, she married the love of her life, Donald Roger Finley at Grace Lutheran Church in Jesup.
Karen attended and graduated from Jesup High School in 1960. After raising her four children with Don on the family farm, her first outside job was as the grain bookkeeper at Paris and Sons in Masonville, IA. She next issued drivers’ licenses with a traveling crew for a territory of five counties. Her final career move was as a team member of Iowa Work Force, in Cedar Rapids, IA, from which she retired January 1, 2000. Karen was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Jesup. She loved her husband, Don, her family and the farm.
Karen is survived by three daughters, Janet (Scott) Miller of Long Beach, NY, Donna Finley of Cedar Falls, IA and Linda (Bud) Sondag of Jesup; one son, Russell, on the family farm in Brandon, IA; 12 grandchildren, Robert, Kelly, Abby, Kayla, Gregory, Amanda, Dustin, Samantha, Danielle, Cole, Caryn and Ky; 13 great grandchildren, Elexis, Hunter, Madison, Maison, Leyton, Emmalyn, Nathan, Lynndzie, Corbin, Maribelle, Georgia, Briley and Caley; and one great-great granddaughter, Emma.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her sister Mary Trumbauer; and her brother, Dave Trumbauer.
Public visitation was held on Friday, September 15, 2023, at White Funeral Home, Independence, IA. A private family graveside service will take place Saturday, September 16 at the Brandon Cemetery, Brandon, IA.
In lieu of flowers, Karen’s wish was to have donations made to the Brandon Cemetery.
White Funeral Home, Independence, IA is assisting the family.
Tyler John Corkery, 21 years old, of Independence, IA, died Wednesday, June 28, 2023, in Independence. Tyler had been battling with all his strength, a mental health crisis that was the result of a severe head injury he suffered two years ago.
Public Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at St. John Catholic Church, Independence, with burial in the church cemetery.
Public visitation was held on Tuesday, July 11th at White Funeral Home,
Tyler was born July 16, 2001, in Cedar Rapids, IA, the son of Adam Scott Corkery and Tara Rachel (Fagle) Corkery. He graduated from Independence High School with the class of 2020. While in school, Tyler enjoyed playing football and other activities. He attended Hawkeye Community College for a year before he started working and found joy in his job at Strictly Roofing and then at Iowa Wall Sawing. He also enjoyed working on cars and motorcycles and racing his dirt bike. He spent a lot of time at the Independence Skate Park, skateboarding with his friends and trying new stunts. He also liked to write music and perform with his friends. Tyler will be remembered as a loving and caring son, brother, grandson, and friend. He loved to see people smile, so he always had a joke or a prank ready. He was proud of his family and was a mentor to his brothers and sisters.
Tyler is survived by his parents, Adam & Tara Corkery of Independence, IA; seven siblings, Trevin Corkery of Cedar Falls, IA, Trey Corkery of Jesup, IA, Makayla Corkery of Manchester, IA, Mason Corkery, Miranda Corkery, Mitchell Corkery, and Mariah Corkery, all at home; paternal grandparents, Ric & Debbie Corkery of Independence; aunts and uncles, Nathan (Nikki) Corkery of Berlin, Germany, Angie (Kurt) Kerkmen of Vinton, IA, Aaron Fagle of Center Point, IA; and many great aunts; great uncles; and cousins. Great grandparent Karol and the late Chuck Smith, Brandon.
He is preceded in death by his great grandparents; maternal grandparents, Kevin & Bonnie Fagle; and his beloved dog Athena.
PUMPKIN BREAD
Ingredients
· 1-2/3 cups all-purpose flour
· 1-1/2 cups sugar
· 1 teaspoon baking soda
· 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
· 3/4 teaspoon salt
· 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
· 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
· 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
· 2 large eggs, room temperature
· 1 cup canned pumpkin
· 1/2 cup canola oil
· 1/2 cup water
· 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
· 1/2 cup raisins, optional
· Directions
· 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Combine first 8 ingredients. Whisk together eggs, pumpkin, oil and water; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in walnuts and, if desired, raisins.
· 2. Pour into a greased 9x5-in. loaf pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 65-70 minutes. Cool in pan 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack.