Brandon bee II
Display real testimonials
Issue # 143
July, Aug, Sept 2026
BRANDON AREA COMMUNITY CLUB NEWS:
BRANDON DAYS- Happy Birthday USA- 250 years- Aug. 7, 8, 2026:
This year’s Brandon days celebration theme is “250 years- Happy Birthday USA!”
Events that we are planning included bags tournament for adults and kids, big ball tournament,
horseshoe tournament, face painting, balloon creations,inflatables, afternoon entertainment, supper,
and an auction. The raffle will feature prizes of $500, $300, $100 and several small prizes.
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 20, 2026, 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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THANK YOU
I would like to thank everyone for their prayers and thoughtful cards to me during this past year. I
have been going through a lot. First I couldn’t stand up this winter without getting dizzy and it took the
doctors several months before they figured out what was going on. It was decided to put in a
pacemaker which when it fired it turned my heartbeat into a flutter at a furious pace. We tried
medication to fix it and slow it down, but it did not work. Then I went in for an ablation, which worked
for a small period of time but subsequently has went back to the flutter. Dumb thing has a mind of its
own. I was to go in for another ablation on the 17th of September but caught a cold and they
postponed it. Please keep me in your prayers and hopefully I will be getting that ablation done in a
month or so.
Linda Clark
60 TH ANNIVERSARY
William and Eloise Brunko Baldwin, married April 23rd, 1966!!! at the Brandon Methodist Church!!!
Their children are Linda Tinkler of Wakefield Ma; Lori Baldwin of Altoona Ia; Bill Baldwin of
Independence and Bob Baldwin of Independence.7 Grandchildren; Cliff Baldwin of Independence,
Callum Tinkler of Wakefield Ma., Elliott Tinkler of Wakefield Ma., Ethan Berkey of Altoona, Lauren
Berkey of Altoona, Addyson Baldwin of Independence and Aylin Baldwin of Independence.
25 TH ANNIVERSARY
Eve Lampson and Dennis Halligan were married 5/19/2001 at Heritage United Methodist Church in
Waverly. Eve, is the daughter of Charles and Rachael Lampson of Shell Rock, Ia. Dennis, is the son
of Michael and Susan Halligan of Brandon.
The couple have 2 children, son, Dawson Halligan (23 yrs old) and daughter, Charlotte Halligan (21
yrs old). Dennis works as the Service Manager at Community Buick/GMC, and Eve as a Project
Engineer at Geater Machining & Manufacturing. They enjoy traveling and spending time with family
and friends. The couple celebrated their 25th anniversary with a weeklong trip to Nashville, TN and
Panama City Beach, Florida.
RETIREMENT
Melinda Hunter, Brandon, recently retired after 47.5 years with BankIowa in Independence. Melinda
worked in multiple departments throughout her long career with the bank. She will continue to serve
as recording secretary for the BankIowa Board of Directors. Melinda and her husband, Dennis look
forward to spending more time with their daughters, Danielle and Michelle and their husbands,
attending their grandsons sports activities and traveling. Congratulations to Melinda for a well
deserved retirement.
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
Sydney Della Jean McBride graduated from Independence High School on Sunday May 17, 2026.
Daughter of Benjamin and Melissa McBride. Granddaughter of Dale and Sandy Rogers of Brandon
and John and Joyce McBride of Waterloo, Ia. Sydney participated in Independence high school
Marching Band through out her high school. After high school she will apprentice at Odin Mark tattoo
shop in Independence, Ia.
Owen Miller graduated from Independence High School on Sunday, May 17, 2026. He is the son of
Amanda and Wyatt Miller. Grandson of Beth Carlson.
Ethan Elliott Gaylor Bearbower, graduated from Center Point Urbana High school on May 24th,
2026. Proud parents are Eric Bearbower and Amber Boyles. Grandparents are the late Linn
Bearbower and Peggy Bearbower and Mike and Trudi Pillard. He plans on joining the Military on his
18th Birthday which is the July 4th.
Craig Frese, graduated on April 10, 2026 from Midland High School. Craig’s future plans are
undecided. His parents are Kenny and Heather Frese. Craig’s grandparents are David and
Lorrainne Lehman, Brandon and Leslie and Ken Tripses, Lone Tree, Iowa.
COLLEGE GRADUATES
Keri Webster, graduated on May 15, 2026 from Arizona University with a Bachelor degree in
Neuroscience with a speciality in Neurobiology. Keri is the daughter of Kevin and Rachel Webster.
Keri is unsure of her future plans, it depends on the location of available jobs.
Ashlee Thomas graduated from Hawkeye Community College with an Associates degree in
Administrative Assistance. Ashlee is employed by Cedar Falls Utilities. Her parents are Brian (Buddy)
and Kelly Thomas.
Her grandparents are Charles Cox and the late LaVonn Webster- Westcott.BRANDON GARDEN CLUB
The Brandon Garden Club recently went on their spring outing. This year we visited the Cedar River
Garden Center in Palo, Blooms in Cedar Rapids and a Garden Center near Center Point. As usual
we all made several purchases that will need to be planted.
We are making plans for the float we will have in the Brandon Days Parade
.
We meet on the 4th Monday of each month at Karol Smith’s home beginning at 6:30. We invite
anyone interested in gardening to join our group. You can contact Karol for further information
at 319-290-0101.
MOBILE FOOD PANTRY
The Brandon Mobile Food Pantry is held on the 4 th Wednesday of each month. The upcoming
dates are: July 22, August 26, and September 23.
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 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 at 319-474-2368.
BRANDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY – Linda Clark
The Brandon/Jefferson Township Historical Society want to thank everyone for their support at our
garage/bake sale. Hope to see you at our next one. We will post on the Historical Society Facebook
page.
We are planning on being open during the Brandon Celebration for patrons to come see all of the
accomplishments we have made over the last year. We raised enough money to add more electric on
the main floor and the basement. We have done a lot of clean up in the basement as well.
We are going to be spending a lot of time cataloging all the items we have displayed in the museum.
If anyone has time to come in and help us that would be wonderful. We have all kinds of photos that
have people in them that have not yet been identified. If you have time to help us identify some of
these people it would be greatly appreciated.
As of now we need to raise more monies before we get any more projects done. 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. We also
appreciate all the cans and bottles you have left for us. Everything adds up and helps us to keep
going.
BRANDON HISTORICAL SOCIETY – continued
If you would like to join us for our meetings we would be happy to welcome you on the 2nd Thursday
of the month at the home of Karol Smith. If you have any artistry skills we would love to have your
skills for doing backdrops, murals, etc. for all our new projects.
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.
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.
Don’t forget to visit and follow the Brandon Jefferson Township Historical Society page on Facebook.
It is the one with a golden B.
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.
We would like to thank everyone that helped in our renovation and the removal of the cement steps
and the constructing of out new steps. The new construction is in memory of Boni Bishop.
We hold a Bible study each Wednesday night at 7 pm. We are studying the book of Revelations.
Everyone is encourage to come and learn. It’s a great time of sharing and gleaning from one another.
Chapter by chapter, verse by verse. Come and learn what Christ is saying to the church and what
happens when the church is gone.
BRANDON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH~ Pastor Beth Graham
507 Main Street
10:00 am. Worship service begins at 10:00 am. Handicap accessible.
Adult Sunday School 9:00 am
Pastor’s contact information:
Rev. Beth Graham
P.O. Box 125
Brandon, Iowa 52210 580-279-2340
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.BASH
2025-26 School year kick-off of BASH will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. BASH is
held from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Any child age kindergarten- 5 th 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, October 3, 2026
serving from 4:30-7:30 pm 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 (Max order
is 6 quarts.) WE WILL STOP TAKING ORDERS WHEN WE REACH 250 QUARTS. Call Lu 319-
310-5610.
MEN’S CLUB
The Brandon United Methodist Men's Club would like to thank everyone who supported and helped
with our Chicken BBQ. It was a great success, serving 247 dinners this year.
If you are interested in attending Men’s club, we meet from September through May on the 4th
Wednesday of the month. Come join us if you would like. Contact Brian(Buddy) Thomas at 319-269-
4680 with questions.
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RIVER’S EDGE WINS STATE
The River’s Edge Girls10U SB Prospects are your 2026 Silver Division Champions!! This is the
River’sEDGE second softball team to play for the State Championship and the 1 st team to win it!
The State tournament was held in Altoona, Iowa on May 6 & 7, 2026. Derbi Holt, daughter of Austin
and Whitney Holt is a member of the team. Her grandparents are Doug & Denise Lehman, and Kathy
and Doug Holt. Congratulations players and coaches !!
COLLEGE SPORTS
DMACC Softball won game 2 of the 3 game series with Dawson and captured the Northwest B
District Championship. This qualifies them for the World Series, it is DMACC’s 14 th World Series
appearance since 2012. DMACC participated in the NJCAA Division II World Series, held in Boiling
Springs, S.C. on May 25, 2026 and had great success, the DMACC Bears ended the tournament
being the Runner- ups. The DMACC Bears closed out the season 60-12 setting a new school record
for wins in a season. Bella Louvar, daughter of Jill and Jack Louvar is a member of the team.
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS
Memphis Peyton, 8 th grade, secured the Wamac East Champion title, in discus with a personal record
throw of 136’8”. Memphis is a member of the 8 th grade Independence Junior High track team.
Memphis is the son of Brian (Bo) and Hilary Peyton. His grandparents are Doug & Denise Lehman,
and Karen and Wyatt Parkinson and the late Pat Peyton.NATIONAL ARCHERY
Jesup
Jensen Long, 4 th Grade Jesup Elementary shot 230, at the National NASP Archery Tournament held
in Louisville, Kentucky,May 7 & 8, 2026 Parents are John & Brooke Long of Jesup. Grandparents
are Darrell & Kim Brunko of Brandon, & Martha Long of Vinton and the late Jim Long.
NATIONAL JUNIOR HIGH RODEO
Cayden Burkholder,13, made his first trip the 2026 National Junior High Rodeo Finals (NJHRF), June
21-27, at the legendary Lazy E Areana in Guthrie, Oklahoma. It is the world’s largest junior high
rodeo, featuring over 1,000 contestants competing for national titles and scholarships. Cayden
qualified by participating in Jr.High rodeos here in Iowa. He was the Iowa State Champ in bareback
riding. Cayden placed 3 rd in first go round at Nationals, 3 rd in the second go round. He qualified for
the short go and ended up 4 th in the aggregate at Nationals. Cayden is the son of Micah Burkholder
and Cody Burkholder. His grandparents are Robin and Bill Belfield and Clint and the late Mari
Burkholder, who are all so proud of him!
POST OFFICE TO INCREASE STAMPS
The United States Postal Service is increasing the price of First Class stamps on July 12, 2026.
Forever stamps will increases from $0.78 cents to $0.82
Postcard will increase from $0.61 to $0.65
AREA TOWN CELEBRATIONS
INDEPENDENCE JULY 3& 4 TH
AURORA JULY 4 TH
JESUP FARMERS DAY JULY 9- 11
BUCHANAN COUNTY FAIR JULY 8-12
JONES COUNTY FAIR JULY 16-20
RAGBRAI JULY 18-26 OVERNIGHT IN INDEPENDENCE JULY 23
FAYETTE CO FAIR JULY 22-25
ROWLEY DAYS JULY 24-26
WALKER PICKLE DAYS JULY 22-25
URBANA DAYS JULY 31- AUGUST 1ST
BRANDON DAYS AUGUST 7-8
LAMONT BLOCK PARTY (formerly Lamont Days) AUGUST 1ST
OELWEIN RAILROAD/HERITAGE DAYS 3 RD WEEKEND IN AUG
INDEPENDENCE BREWBQUE AUG. 22
RAGBRAI STOP IN BRANDON
A small percentage of the 20,000+ RAGBRAI riders will do an extra loop of 36 miles on Thursday,
July 23, 2026. The riders have a choice to do the additional loop. The group will come to the La
Porte Road corner, within a 1/2 mile of the Brandon Area Community Center. The BACC members
will have the Community Center open for a water and bathroom stop. The Community Center from 9
am- 4 pm.
STATE POOL
Phat’s Pub and Grub II Men’s pool team took 3rd place in the Iowa State 8 Ball team event in Des
Moines in April. Members of the team are Michael Halligan Jr.,Travis Halligan, Mark
Johnson, Sky Pries, Jake Reed. Congratulations!
Aiden Halligan, 8 th grade, competed in the Waterloo Junior State pool tournament, he
placed 3 rd . In the Junior State pool tournament in Des Moines, Aiden placed 5 th .
Aiden is the son of Michael Halligan and Carmen Halligan. His grandparents are Mike
and Sue Halligan. Great job Aiden!
Independence Rotary Club
The Independence Rotary Club recently selected Myra Peyton, sophmore at
Independence Jr./Sr. High School, as one of three RYLA scholarships. RYLA is the
Iowa Rotary Youth Leadership Awards Conference in Grinnell, Iowa, July 25-31, 2026.
Myra along with the 2 other Independence recipients will join students from across
Iowa to build leadership skills, make lifelong friendships and gain experiences that last
well beyond the conferences.
RYLA isn’t your typical leadership conference. It’s a transformative experience where
students build leadership skills in a supportive environment while developing
confidence, self esteem, and service leadership practices.
DONATIONS TO THE BRANDON BEE
Thank you to the following people for their generous donations to the publication of this newsletter.
Jan Bearbower, Shirley Himes and Carol Noe.
DEADLINE
The deadline for the October, November, December issue of the Brandon Bee is due by September
15, 2025
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
AREA TOWN CELEBRATIONS
INDEPENDENCE JULY 4 TH
AURORA JULY 4 TH
JESUP FARMERS DAY JULY 9- 11
BUCHANAN COUNTY FAIR JULY 8-12
JONES COUNTY FAIR JULY 16-20
RAGBRAI JULY 18-26 OVERNIGHT IN INDEPENDENCE JULY 23
FAYETTE CO FAIR JULY 22-25
ROWLEY DAYS JULY 24-26
WALKER PICKLE DAYS JULY 22-25
AREA TOWN CELEBRATIONS continued
URBANA DAYS JULY 31- AUGUST 1ST
BRANDON DAYS AUGUST 7-8
LAMONT BLOCK PARTY (formerly Lamont Days) AUGUST 1 ST
OELWEIN RAILROAD/HERITAGE DAYS 3 RD WEEKEND IN AUG
INDEPENDENCE BREWBQUE 8-22
Area Fireworks Shows
Independence - 4 th of July
Hudson- July 19th
Walker- July 26 th
BRANDON CEMETERY
Have you been to the Brandon Cemetery lately? There have been many improvements at the
Brandon Cemetery in the last few years. Denise Cue and her crew keep the cemetery looking great.
Expansion of the cemetery along with a new driveway took place in the last couple of years.
A new sign greets you as you enter the gates. The future cemetery fundraising projects include:
Reroof the storage shed
Flag replacements
Solar lights on sign
Gravel on the driveway
Memorial Day weekend Denise and her crew put the flags up in the cemetery Friday, Saturday and
Sunday at 7 am. Each evening at 7 pm they would take them down. How many flags you ask?
152 American flags each day! On Sunday evening they take down the flags, fold them and put them
away.They also put away the flag poles, the plaques with the name of the local Veterans that are
attached to the poles. They are a loyal group of workers that help each year!
Denise is planning on a stone cleaning event and looking for participants. Date TBD. All supplies will
be provided. (Keep checking our Facebook page for details.)
They are always looking for donations to keep our cemetery beautiful. Thanks to everyone for your
continued support.
Brandon Cemetery Association
2342 Benton Buchanan Road
Brandon, Iowa 52210
Are you looking for a Grave?? There is an internet site- “Find a Grave” that lists all the burials in
thousands of cemeteries.
Type in: Find a grave
Type in Cemetery Location: Brandon, Iowa
A box will pop up: Brandon, Buchanan County, Iowa, USA
Tap this box and then hit SEARCH. This will take you to a screen that you can type in the particular
name you are searching for. So much information provided on this site!
For information on the cemetery, follow BRANDON CEMETERY on Facebook or call Denise Albert
Cue at 319-464-7577
.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
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 and Shirley Wiley, are currently residing at the Lutheran home . Brighten their day with a
note or card. Ross is in the Care Center and Shirley is residing in assisted living.
Ross Wiley
Shirley Wiley
Lutheran Home
1301 2nd Ave
Vinton, Iowa 52349
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
OBITUARIES
Tiffany Marie Newton, age 59, of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on June 4, 2026, of pneumonia. There
will be a private family burial at a future date, at the Brandon Cemetery, Brandon, Iowa, where she will join her
husband, Andy. Tiffany was born on May 29,1967 in Turkey the daughter of Walker and Katherine Martha
Sandlin.
On June 30, 2007 Tiffany and Andy Newton were married in Las Vegas. Tiffany has one son, Nicholas
Genung, stepchildren Andrew Newton and Stephanie King.
Tiffany was employed for many years at Terrible Herbst Convenience Stores, in Las Vegas. She worked many
positions in her years there including Manager.
Tiffany is survived by her children Nicholas B. Genung, Las Vegas, Nevada,Stephanie (Zach) King, Andrew
(Jenni) Newton, both of Bondurant, Iowa and her grandson William, her sister Susan Sandlin, Westland,
Michigan. Many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great- great nieces and nephews.
Tiffany is also survived by Andy’s family. His brothers, David Newton, McKinney, TX; Kelly (Lisa) Newton,
Waverly, IA; Wayne(Susie) Novak, Central City, IA; sisters, Lynn (Lyle) Ries, Alta Vista, IA; Annette (Ray)
Sauer, Bondurant, IA; Denise (Doug) Lehman, Rowley, IA, Dawn (Bill) Phillips, Rowley, IA; Carolyn (Doug)
Wright, Marion, IA.; Debora (George) Smith, Coggon, Ia. Brother-in-law, Rick Wensel, Urbana, IA.;
Tiffany was preceded in death by her husband, Andy in February 2026, her parents, Walker and Katherine
Martha Sandlin. Brothers, Duane Walker Sandlin; Brian Douglas Sandlin. Her In- laws, Duane and V. Dolores
Novak, James William and Mary Ellen Newton, brothers- in- law, James William Newton, Jr.; Michael John
Newton; sister- in- law, Cheryl Wensel.
Marcella Ann “Sally” West, 82 years old of rural La Porte City, IA, died late Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at
Northcrest Specialty Care in Waterloo, IA.
Funeral services were held on Monday, April 27, 2026, at the First Presbyterian Church, Jesup, with burial at
Bear Creek Cemetery, rural Brandon, IA. Memorials may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church of Jesup.
Marcella was born April 24, 1943, in Vinton, IA, the daughter of Robert O. Young and Hertha Grace (Baker)
Young. She graduated from La Porte City High School with the class of 1961. On September 14, 1963, she
was united in marriage to Wilbur LeRoy West at the First Presbyterian Church in La Porte City. When able, she
was active in her church and enjoyed giving her time. During the summers in Jesup, she became known for
her specialty “made rites,” served at lunch in the park. She enjoyed yard work and tending to flowers at home
and had worked part time at the Crossroads Hallmark Store.
Marcella is survived by two sisters, Patricia (Ron) Allers of Holman, Wisconsin and Loretta (Dennis), Sheffler of
La Porte City, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Wilbur, who died March 24,
2014, she was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, James Young. White Funeral Home, JesupIA, is in charge of the arrangements.
Ruby J. Marks, 89 years old, of Rowley, Iowa, died of natural causes, Thursday, April 2, 2026.
Funeral Services were held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church – Rowley. Burial
followed at the Rowley Cemetery.
Ruby was born January 25, 1937, in rural Rowley, Iowa, the daughter of John Devere and Martha Elizabeth
(Basquin) Grover. She grew up on a farm outside of Rowley and graduated from Rowley High School with the
class of 1954. She was very active throughout her school years. She enjoyed basketball, theater and band and
loved plays and musicals. On August 14, 1955, she was united in marriage to Roger Allen Marks at the First
United Methodist Church – Rowley. Together they owned and operated Marks Locker and Grocery in Rowley,
which later became Marks Locker. When Roger became disabled in 1975, Ruby didn’t skip a beat and
continued to grow and manage the business. After she sold the business in 2003, she continued to work until
her retirement in 2020. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Rowley.
Ruby was committed to her church, family, community. She was an organist at the church for more than 70
years and was active in the Methodist Women’s group. She helped in her church circle and was a youth leader.
Ruby enjoyed her role as the Rowley Days talent show coordinator and a Chuck Wagon Dinner volunteer. She
participated in the Ladies Musical and taught piano lessons for many years. She loved playing cards and had
the same card club for over 40 years. Ruby was an Iowa Hawkeyes fan and an Eastern Star member. She
loved seeing her grandchildren and great grandchildren and always looked forward to attending their events.
Her cheerful personality and generous spirit made her a great caretaker and good friend. When faced with
adversity she was determined to succeed – and she did. She was a firm believer of the saying, “Give and you
shall receive.”
Ruby is survived by four daughters, Lisa (Tom) Taylor of Rowley, Teresa Rommann of Coggon, Iowa, Tammy
(Kevin) Pflughaupt of New Hampton, Iowa, Sue Marks of Rowley; one son, Douglas (Peggy) Marks of Marion,
Iowa; 14 grandchildren; 49 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Roger Marks; one great grandson, Kinnick Marks; and
her brothers and sisters, Leland Grover (in infancy); William, Guy, James, and Max Grover, Gladys Corkery,
and her twin sister Ruth Hanson. Memorials may be directed to the Cedar Valley Hospice and Camp
Courageous. White Funeral Home, Independence, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.
Florence L. Hermsen, 96, of Independence, Iowa, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, June 4,
2026.
Florence was born on March 27, 1930, in Brandon, Iowa, the daughter of Henry G. and Edna Mae (Albert)
Naylor. She grew up in Buchanan County and helped care for her ten siblings, learning early the values of
responsibility, hard work, and devotion to family. She graduated from Independence High School in 1947.
On June 26, 1948, Florence married the love of her life, Kenneth A. Hermsen, at St. John’s Catholic Church in
Independence. The couple lived in Waterloo for several years before returning to Independence in the mid-
1950s, where they established their home and raised their family.
Florence dedicated herself to being a loving wife and mother. As a stay-at-home mom for many years, she
created a warm and welcoming home and was always there for her children, offering guidance, support, and
unconditional love. She later worked at Davis Paint and then at Hess Pharmacy in Independence, where she
was employed for twenty years.
Known for her strength, grace, intellect, and calm nature, Florence was the heart of her family. She possessed
a wonderful sense of humor and a quiet wisdom that helped guide those around her. She took pride in her
home and garden, was a prolific quilter, and enjoyed teaching her children practical skills and life lessons.
Above all, she cherished her family. She especially loved babies and young children and found great joy in
spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Florence L. Hermsen obituary continued:
Florence is survived by her children, Larry Hermsen of Portland, Oregon, Judie (Dennis Domsic) Hermsen of
Iowa City, Peg (Garry) Erger of Independence, and Joanne (Tracy) Robertson of Independence; five
grandchildren, Lauren (Tom Lindsey) Olson, Michael (Tracey) Erger, Bryan (Jill) Erger, Molly (Jake)
Breitsprecher, and Matthew (Kelsey Barnett-Fischels) Fischels; seven great-grandchildren, Max, Livee, Daniel,
Elsie, Jett, Dylan, and Calvin; one sister, Evelyn McCalley of Independence; two brothers, Don Naylor of
Oxford Junction, IA and Rich (Linda) Naylor of Papillion, NE; a sister-in-law, Jean Clark Naylor, a brother-in
law, Jeff Touzinsky, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Edna Mae Naylor; her husband, Kenneth Hermsen; two
sisters, Henrietta Bellendier, Lorraine Romick, and; five brothers, Lyle Naylor, Ivan Naylor, Francis Naylor,
Ronald Naylor, and Kenneth Naylor, and a son-in-law, Dale Fischels.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Independence.
Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery.
Richard “Dick” Eugene Nolta, 80, of Brandon, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, April 4, leaving behind a
lifetime of stories, laughter, and well-worn hands that rarely stayed still.
Richard was born in State Center, Iowa, and from an early age developed a love of farm life, enjoying
summers helping his uncle with a forty-horse hitch of Belgians. He later attended and graduated from Don
Bosco High School in 1963.
A welder by trade at John Deere and a farmer at heart, Richard spent more than 70 years working the same
family farm he loved so deeply. Whether he was fixing what others thought couldn’t be fixed or piecing together
parts from one tractor to keep another running, he had a gift for making things work—usually in his own unique
way.
Richard lived life simply and fully. He was often found with a Snickers bar in one hand, a cup of coffee close by,
and a cigarette not too far behind—always ready to strike up a conversation with anyone willing to listen. He
genuinely loved people and found joy in the little moments. Many will remember the way he greeted the day,
and everyone in it, with his signature “happy, jolly good morning.”
He was known for his laid-back nature, quick wit, and a sarcastic streak that kept everyone on their toes. He
didn’t take life too seriously, but he took care of the people and things that mattered most.
Richard is deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his wife of 53 years, Colleen, his partner through a
lifetime of love, hard work, and everyday life; his children, Kristi (Russ) O’Connell, Brian (Brooke) Nolta,
Andrea (Matt) McGeough, and Kelli (Derek) Huyser; nine grandchildren; his siblings, Robert (Sandra) Nolta
and Sr. Rose Therese Nolta; along with many extended family members and friends who will carry his memory
forward in stories, laughter, and everyday moments. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertha and
Leighton Nolta.
In true Richard fashion, he would probably tell us not to make too much fuss—but he also wouldn’t mind if we
shared a good story, a hearty laugh, and maybe even a Snickers in his honor. And in the memories of those
who knew him, he will always be wishing you one more “happy, jolly good morning.”
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, April 13, 2026 at St. Athanasius Catholic Church in Jesup,
Iowa. Burial will take place at St. Athanasius Cemetery in Jesup.
Mildred Mae Kisling, 91, of Vinton, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, at the Vinton Lutheran Home.
Mildred was born on May 31, 1935, in rural Vinton, the daughter of Clark and Maxine (Lindsay) Long. She
spent her life devoted to caring for others, both professionally and personally. On May 9, 1954, Mildred married
Frederick “Fred” Russell Kisling in Benton County, Iowa. They shared many years together before Fred’s
passing in 1988.
After graduating from Urbana Community School, she attended Hawkeye Community College’s Nursing
Program and became a Licensed Practicing Nurse (LPN). She worked as a nurse for many years at Virginia
Gay Nursing & Rehabilitation, where her compassion and dedication touched the lives of countless residents
and families.
Mildred enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. She loved reading, working puzzles, bird watching, gardening,
and, most of all, spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her unwavering independence,
compassionate heart, and steadfast dedication to caring for others.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Beth Louise Crouch of Vinton; eleven grandchildren;
many great-grandchildren; and many other beloved family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by husband, Frederick “Fred” Russell Kisling; three children: Kristi Ann Kisling,
Kenneth Wayne Kisling, and Lori Lee (Kisling) Cummings; and three siblings: Wayne Long, Helen Robertson,
and James Long.
A memorial service was held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Van Steenhuyse-Teahen Funeral Home,
Vinton. Burial will follow at Bear Creek Cemetery, Brandon.
James Leo Rugger, age 58, of Brandon, Iowa, passed away on 4/29/2026 surrounded by his family.
James was a devoted husband, father and friend.
He was born 2/28/1968 in Waterloo Iowa to Rose Marie and Harry Norman Rugger. He had a sister, Becky
Rugger, and a brother, Louis Rugger (Mardie).
James grew up in the Brandon/Independence, Iowa area. He enjoyed a long career as a construction specialist.
His contracts took him to National Parks and construction sites around the United States and Canada.
He will be remembered for his kind, generous, adventurous and fun-loving spirit.
He liked to say he was a nomadic soul drifting through this life.
James is survived by his loving wife, Mayuri Rugger, his children: Dawn Marietti (Brittany), Nathan Lavery,
Tiffany Chetwynd (Eric), and Jimmy Stearman (Alora); Grandchildren: Nick, Justin, James, Kaytlyn, Haley,
Chase, Nara and Jaxx; great grandchildren: Kenzie, Oliver and Oaklee.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Pamela Jean Rugger, with whom he spent 17 years.
As a profound act of compassion and generosity, James donated his body to science. Cosmic energy never
dies. A celebration of life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to United Action for Youth www.unitedactionforyouth.org/donate
Mikey Estes, age 33, passed away on May 2, 2026 as a result of a car accident in Baytown, Texas.
A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, May 17, 2026 in Baytown, Texas. Mikey is the grandson of
Betty Young. Editors note: I was unable to find a complete obituary on Mikey.
Larry O. Bathen, 84, of Independence, Iowa, died on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the Buchanan County
Health Center in Independence.
Larry was born on June 30, 1941, in Independence, Iowa, the son of Otto and Ruth (Applegarth) Bathen. He
grew up on a farm near Brandon, Iowa, where he helped work the family farm for many years, learning the
value of hard work at an early age.
He graduated from Brandon High School in 1959 and went on to work at John Deere in Waterloo. Larry spent
thirty-five years at the John Deere Component Works in downtown Waterloo before retiring in 1997.
On March 2, 1963, Larry was united in marriage to Helen A. Brooks at the Brandon Methodist Church. The
couple made their home on a farm near Independence, where they raised their four children. Larry enjoyed
camping with Helen in Canada, deer hunting, and taking fall car trips with his family to admire the changing
leaves—memories that were cherished by all who shared them with him.
Larry is survived by his loving wife, Helen Bathen; four children, Larry Edwin Bathen, Laura Ann (Lance Eric)
Mumaw, Lisa Ruth Shelton-Bathen, and Lonny Otto Bathen; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren;
one brother, Lloyd Bathen; three sisters, Velda Mentzer, Marie McFarland, and Debbie Jungling; and several
nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Ruth Bathen.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, or Otter Creek
Animal Shelter.
A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at the Brandon Community Center, 802 Main St,
Brandon, IA 52210
Mark Asa Phillips, 64, of Brandon, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026 surrounded by those who loved
him after a courageous battle with lung cancer.
He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose quiet strength, work ethic, and love for his
family shaped the lives of everyone who knew him. He believed in showing up, working hard, and taking care
of the people he loved.
Throughout his life, he found joy in the simple things-riding his bike, time spent with family, sharing stories
around the campfire, and watching his granddaughters grow.
He leaves behind a Son; Bill (Dawn) Phillips of Rowley and two granddaughters Ellie and Leah Phillips. One
brother Melvin Phillips, Urbana and a sister Evalina Sieck, of Center Point.
He was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Bessie (Boyles) Phillips, three sisters; Peggy Munsell,
Barbara Rick, and Rosemary Primus; one brother Billy Phillips.
Though his presence will be deeply missed, the love he gave and the example he set will live on in the hearts
of all who knew him.
Iowa Cremation is honored to serve the family of Mark Asa Phillips