This blogs sole purpose has transitioned to one of keeping in touch with each other. Over the years it has been primarily for letting everyone know what is happening and also for promotion to add more folks to our Winter Texan family. The core of things has changed and we must change along with it. We still want to know what is happening with our friends no matter where they may be located. So continue to let us know where you are and what is on your plate.
I was also asked to pass this information along. Walt Peterson passed away January 28, 2026. There was no obituary.
Walt was cremated and his remains were sent to his family members in Dayton Iowa. Walt and Cindy Peterson were long time residents of Magnolia Park.
I am sorry to be posting this so late, Darlene Jansen gave this information to me a long time ago but truthfully I seem to be so busy that I got way behind in taking care of this blog. I hope to have much more time here at home this summer so things get posted in a timely fashion.
Edna Mae Nelson lived a long and steady life, the kind built on work, family, and the simple routines that become the heart of a home. She passed away February 23, 2026 at the age of 95, surrounded by her family at Westridge Nursing Home in Knoxville. Following her wishes, no formal services will be held. Memorials in Edna's honor may be directed to the American Legion Post 632 in Melcher-Dallas, in care of Pierschbacher Funeral Home, 309 W Main Street, Knoxville Iowa 50138.
She was born January 5, 1931, to Ira and Belle (Sims) Vander Linden, one of twelve children in a lively household where there was always someone to talk to and something going on. Growing up in such a large family meant that quiet moments were rare, but laughter and stories were never in short supply. She attended Knoxville Schools with the class of 1949, stepping into adulthood with the same steady determination that would carry her through the years ahead.
On March 19, 1949, Edna married Charles "Whitey" Nelson. Together they built a life centered on family and hard work and were blessed with three children: Cindy, Charles Jr. and Barry. Edna believed in showing up and doing what needed to be done, whether at home or out in the community. She spent years working as the cook at Melcher High School, where students and staff alike came to know her not just for her warm presence but for recipes that became local favorites. Her cinnamon rolls and school pizza were talked about long after the lunch trays were cleared. She also found herself chaperoning dances and riding along on girls' sports trips, quietly becoming part of the memories of countless students.
Edna wore many hats over the years. She worked as a beautician in Melcher, spent time at Casey's, and at the Northcote Locker. When Whitey suffered a stroke in 1977, she moved her beauty shop into their home so she could continue working while caring for him. It was just what she did--she adjusted and kept going.
In the early 80's, Edna and Whitey began wintering in Texas, a tradition that brought new friendships and a different pace of life. She settled easily into the retirement community there, filling her days with crafts, painting, sewing, and cooking for friends. After Whitey passed in 2009, she continued making the trip south for another decade, holding onto the friendships and routines that meant so much to her.
Back home in Iowa, her world centered around her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She rarely missed a school function if she could help it, happy to sit in the stands or an auditorium seat, simply watching them grow.
Edna was preceded in death by her husband, Charles "Whitey" Nelson; her parents, Ira and Belle Vander Linden; her daughter-in-law, Cheryl Nelson; son-in-law, Kevin DeGoey; sister-in-law Leota Nelson; and her siblings Viola, Louise, Muriel, Paul, an infant brother Ira, Ray, Tub, Lucille, Jack, and Ruth.
She leaves behind her children, Cindy Nelson, Charles (Rhonda) Nelson Jr. and Barry Nelson; her brother, Dale (Judy) Vander Linden; and a niece raised as a sister, Sandra Williams. She also leaves six grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends who will remember her steady presence, her work ethic, and the warmth she brought into their lives.
I was saddened to be informed that Vera Salmon has passed. She was a very long-time resident of Magnolia Park and I'm sure many of us have lots of great memories of her. She loved the Goldwing Express group and I remember when Kenton hired them to help celebrate her birthday. The hall was packed and I don't think she ever quite smiling all the while they played.
Vera was born to Bill and Olive Smith in Grandview on January 6, 1937. She was the youngest of three children, and her older siblings Cliff and Irene, guided her to dances! She came south, first to Russell to work in a bakery, and then moved to Birtle where she worked at the hospital. A love affair with a local young man, George Salmon began at a Solsgirth Dance. This love affair continued for 50 years. They were married on February 22, 1956 and began their farming career together. Then came the arrival of their four sons – Kenton, Murray, Darren and Lyle, followed by 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Vera’s cooking was her life. She could whip up a meal for a crowd in no time and no one ever went home hungry. The coffee pot was always on; neighbours and friends were welcome at any hour, especially after the Gnaton Hall Dances!
Vera and George loved to dance, to visit, to fish and to travel, both to northern Manitoba and straight down south #83 to Texas. They spent over 35 years as Manitoba Snowbirds, saw lots of scenery and made countless friends each winter. Mexico was always an adventure-some things we don’t know the whole story on…but they loved it.
George passed away April 10, 2006, and Vera, with her family, always close by, continued on the Salmon way by welcoming friends and strangers to her home. For 58 years she continued the camping and fishing trips to Iskwasum with family and friends as well as heading south where she was always welcomed by her friends.
Vera was predeceased by her husband George, her parents Bill and Olive Smith, her siblings Cliff Smith and Irene (Bill) Palmer; her in laws Ephraim and Mary Salmon, Velma (Don) Potter, Betty (Clarence) Hickman, and Joe Zuzanski.
Vera is survived by her sons and their families: Kenton Salmon, Kristen(Jamie) Larson and Taylor, and Kristen’s Mom Barb Salmon; Murray(Cheryl) Salmon, Jason (Kaitlynn) Salmon, Parker and Callum, Candace Salmon, Desmond and Wilfrid; Darren Salmon, Amanda (Blaine) Watson, Karyssa (Austin) and Maliah, Courtney (Kyle) McKinney, stepdaughter Roselyn Silvaggio, Alivia and Zachary; Lyle (Betty) Salmon, Colin(Glynis) Salmon and Adelynn, Brendon (Shaylin) Salmon and Jayce; her sisters-in-law Dorothy and Verla, as well as multiple nieces and nephews whom she loved greatly.
He was born on September 19, 1936, in Callaway, Nebraska to Merril and Esther (Rarden) Woodward. He attended public school in Callaway and graduated from Callaway High School with the class of 1954.
Cecil enlisted in the United States Army in 1957 where he proudly served his country until he was honorably discharged on January 31, 1959. On August 10, 1959, Cecil married Hazel Harvey. Four children were blessed to this union: Jeral, Joe, Janel and Jon. This marriage would later end. He would soon find love again and was united in marriage to Jean Hergenrader on July 7, 2001, bringing a blended family together with Krysti and Scott.
Cecil worked in various jobs in Cozad and owned the Body Fender Repair and later painted cars at H&H Body Shop. In 1970 his family made their home in Callaway where he owned the Sinclair Service Station then worked for the Village of Callaway doing maintenance and repairs. He also spent many years working for the Coop Station (now Country Partners) until his retirement in 2001.
Cecil was greatly involved in his community throughout the years. He was a charter member of the Cozad Elks Club and held many positions in the Lions Club. He was a member of the Callaway Volunteer Fire Department for over 20 years, was a village board member for 14 years, and has been a Grand Generation Manor Board Member since 1974. Although Cecil kept his plate full of work and volunteering, he always had time for friends who needed a ride to medical appointments or to enjoy a cup of coffee. Cecil was a founding and active member at the Callaway Lutheran Church.
During his down time, Cecil enjoyed being outdoors looking for wildlife, long country drives and spending time at the soddy. He often hunted, fished and went camping with his family. He was an avid pool player and enjoyed traveling. He loved to keep his garden meticulous and always had a deep adoration for classic cars. His greatest love was being with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who always kept him busy with their activities and sports.
Survivors include his daughters, Jeral (Sam) Tillman of Omaha, and Janel (Rod) Brestel of Callaway; daughter-in-law, Amanda Woodward of Beatrice, Krysti (Steve) Cunningham of Omaha, Scott (Pam) Hergenrader of Cozad; sister, Peggy Holeman of Arcadia; sister-in-law, Jo Woodward of Loveland, Colorado; and brother-in-law, Rich Elliott of Lone Oak, Texas; eight grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild; special friend, Jo Keyser of Callaway; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Besides his parents and wife Jean, Cecil was preceded in death by his two sons, Joe and Jon; brothers, Larry (Jo Ann) Woodward and Gail Woodward; sisters, Detta (Jack) Wright and Carolyn Elliott; brother-in-law, Dick Holeman.
Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Callaway Community Center in Callaway with Joyce Kolbo, P.M.A. And Ken Pitkin, officiating. The service will be live-steamed via the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home Facebook page.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Callaway with family receiving guests from 5-7 p.m.
Burial with Military Honors will be held after the service at the Waldheim Cemetery in rural Callaway.
Memorials are kindly suggested to the Grand Generation Manor or Callaway Good Life Center.
Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com
I received word yesterday that Velma Jay, who had lived on Lime Street and at one time had beat stage 4 lung cancer , has now found that she now has stomach cancer and her lymph nodes are also involved. They have decided not to do more treatment and she has been given less than six months. Her address, if you'd like to send a card, is 4193 W Main Street, Poseyville Indiana 47633
Kay Francine Stilson, 81, of Eldridge, Iowa passed away Friday, November 14, 2025 at UnityPoint-Trinity Bettendorf following a long battle with C.O.P.D. "Smoking will kill you"
Funeral services to celebrate her life will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, November 20, 2025 at the United Methodist Church, Hampton, Iowa. Burial will be in Hampton Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 11 a.m. until the time of the service Thursday at church. Memorials may be made to Hampton Bulldog Wrestling.
Kay was born on January 5, 1944 to Arthur and Lois Izer. She was raised on a farm in Franklin County by her aunt & uncle Francis and Violet Meyer. She married William “Bill” Stilson on August 18, 1963. He preceded her in death on July 18, 2020. They had two children, Michael Ross and Craig William.
Kay worked for The Hampton Chronicle and Times in the advertising department and worked her way up to advertising manager. She retired in December 1989
In 2000, Kay and Bill started going to Donna, Texas for the winters. They bought a trailer in Magnolia Park and looked forward to going there every winter.
Kay kept busy doing crafts, attending the music jams and selling 50-50 raffle tickets. She did a lot of baking for the jam halftime breaks. Kay enjoyed meeting and visiting with all the people.
Kay enjoyed high school and college wrestling, NASCAR racing and was a New York Mets and Miami Dolphins fan.
Kay is survived by her sons Michael of Farmington, Minnesota and Craig of Eldridge, six grandchildren: Chelsea (Brett) Medernach of Farmington, Minnesota, Collin Stilson of Farmington, Minnesota, Cade Stilson of Reno, Nevada, Ethan (Lexi), of Davenport, Iowa and Grant and Samantha Stilson of Eldridge, Iowa; great-grandchildren Paisley and Maverick Medernach of Farmington, Minnesota
In addition to her husband, Bill, Kay was preceded in death by her parents, an infant sister Judith, and a special aunt and uncle.
I received a call from Peggy Gordon a few days ago with the news that Kay Stilson had passed away. I have not posted this news until now because I was hoping to find an obituary but thus far have not been successful.
Many of us who were long-time residents of Magnolia Park remember Pecan Bill and Kay who lived on the corner of Peach and Center Street. Bill could almost always be found cracking pecans outside and Kay would be busy inside.
Nice people, both of them.
If I should find an obituary I will post it here.
I did find an obituary for Butch and am posting this now as a reminder that a Celebration of Life open house will be held tomorrow in Jefferson Iowa at the Depot from 11:00 - 2:00
Leonard Dean “Butch” Brooker, 84, of Jefferson died September 9, 2025.
A Celebration of Life
open house will be held Saturday, Sept. 27, from 11 am to 2 pm at The
Depot in Jefferson. Lunch will be served.
In retirement, he and
Barb traveled in their RV all around the country for several years, and
wintered in Texas, where he added billiards to that list, winning
many tournaments. He and his favorite partner, Paul Keleher, racked up
many trophies over the past three years.
Butch is preceded in
death by his parents J.R. and Marion Brooker; his brother Robert
Brooker; his stillborn son Kevin; and sister-in-law Jo Brooker.
Barb and his Butch’s
sons wish to extend our sincere gratitude to all the people who
assisted us with his recent illness. It is heartwarming to see so many who
care.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Clearwater for Virginia M. “Ginny” Stavrum, age 98, of Clearwater, who passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the Guardian Angels Care Center in Elk River. Reverend Dennis Backer will officiate. Burial will be in the St. Luke’s Parish Cemetery in Clearwater. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Clearwater.
Virginia was born on May 1, 1927, to James and Elizabeth (Stearns) Bowder in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She married Melvin R. Stavrum on May 5, 1945, at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in St. Augusta, Minnesota. Virginia was employed by T & O Plastics in Clearwater for 27 years, retiring in 1989. She was an avid square dancer and a member of the Beaux and Belles Square Dance Club and St. Luke’s Parish.
Survivors include her children, Beverely Lokensgard of San Juan, TX, Connie Dziuk of Greenfield, Bob (Bev) Stavrum of St. Cloud, Ken Stavrum of Clearwater, Mark (Pam) Stavrum of Plymouth and Lisa (Jim) Ludescher of Big Lake; thirteen grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren; five great great grandchildren; and sister, Betty Stewart of Alexandria.
Virginia was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Melvin; her parents; stepfather, Henry Niebolte; four brothers, James Bowder, Adrian Bowder, John Bowder, and Frank Niebolte; sister, Alice Janchar; one infant sister, Dorothy Bowder; son-in-law, Perry Dziuk; grandson, Robert Stavrum, Jr. and two great grandchildren, Charles Bixler, Jr. and Travis Monson.
A special thank you to the staff of Guardian Angels Care Center and Triniti Hospice for their loving and compassionate care of Ginny.
In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred.
