Fred Rabe Obituary

 Fred John Henry Rabe, Jr., 100, of Clyde passed away Wednesday, August 27, 2025, in an Abilene hospice facility.

Fred was born March 15, 1925, in Independence, Missouri to the late Fred John Henry and Minnie Ladora (Tarver) Rabe. He attended school in Lee Summit, Missouri. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 until 1946. He married Wilma Chapele in Monahans and he moved to Clyde in 2019. He worked as a truckdriver for Yellow Freight Lines for 23 years and had previously worked as an EMT in Rising Star.

He is survived by his son, John Rabe and wife Renae of Grove, Oklahoma; three daughters, Mary Marcus and husband David of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Kay Bailey and husband Ken of Clyde and Diane of Kansas City, Kansas; seventeen grandchildren; many great grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren.

Fred was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma; his son, Tom; his daughter, Jean; brother, Alfred and sister, Marcella.

Fred Rabe Passed

I heard from several people today that Fred Rabe passed last night. Fred was a very long-time resident in Magnolia Park and most of you will remember him. He fell and hit his head requiring stitches and hospitalization. He remained unresponsive and they transferred him to a hospice where he passed away. He was 100 on March 15.

His daughter is Kay Bailey, 106 Bryant Rd Clyde TX 79510 if you'd care to send her a card. I have looked for an obituary but thus far haven't found one. If I do find one I will post it here.

Kenneth Huizenga Obituary

Another long-time member of our Magnolia family has passed. We have many good memories of Ken and Helga in those years that we were all in Magnolia Park. They camped all winter in a camper van which had all the comforts of home even though it wasn't overly large. It's nice to have those memories of friends and good times from those Magnolia years.

Kenneth J. Huizenga, 90, was born August 12, 1935 to Alice (Zeeryp) and Cornelius Huizenga in Garden Plain, IL.

A visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, followed by the funeral service, starting at 11 a.m. Pastor Jeff Coester of The Big Red Church in Sterling, IL will be officiating. Interment will be in Fulton Township Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to The Big Red Church - First Congregational, Sterling, IL and Albany Ambulance, Albany, IL.

Ken spent his youth living upstairs of his family Garden Plain grocery store and working in his father’s field. Before school he picked vegetables to peddle market to other grocery stores in the area. Ken attended Garden Plain schools and graduated from Fulton High School in 1953, and has lived his whole adult-life two doors west of the old Garden Plain Grade School.  

Ken met the love of his life, Helga (Ibs) while cruising the streets of Clinton in his new red/white ’56 Chevy Bel Air convertible. The handsome guy with that bright smile and the shiny classic car, caught her eye and they had their first date at a Maid-rite in the Quad Cities. They married in the Zion Lutheran Church, Clinton, IA on August 20, 1960.  

Ken served in the US Army being drafted 1958-1960 and 1961-1962 during the Berlin Crisis and sent to Korea. He is a member of the American Legion, Post 402, Fulton, IL and member of the United Methodist Church, Morrison, IL.  

Ken enjoyed gardening and sharing his produce with friends and family. He always made sure to supply his girls, grandkids and special friends with his homegrown popcorn. Ken and Helga loved to travel and camp along the way, visiting all 50 states and traveling to Germany to visit his daughter and family while they were stationed there. They also wintered in Donna, TX for nearly 20 years in their motorhome. Ken’s greatest joy in life was spending time with family and special hugs from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  

Before retirement, Ken worked as an insurance agent, Clinton Corn Processing, Brinkman Lumber Company, and substitute rural mail carrier for Fulton and Cordova areas.

Ken is survived by his loving wife, Helga, and daughters: Rita (Randy) Kaufman-Schaller and Christine (James) McGowan. Grandchildren: Katie (Adam) Hoagland, Alyssa (Joe) Fisher, Brianna (Doug) Chidester, Nicholas (Katie) Kaufman, Courtney McGowan, Ryan McGowan, Mitch Schaller and Jordan Schaller. Great-Grandchildren: Colton Hoagland, Kennedy & Paige Fisher, Wren Kaufman, and a great-grandbaby on the way.

Ken was proceeded in death by his parents, sister Ella Mae Bielema, and brother Wayne Huizenga.

Joe Stinchfield Obituary

Joe was a part of our Magnolia family for many years and will be missed by all who knew him.

 Keith Joseph "Joe" Stinchfield, 100, of Willard, WI, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at the Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield, WI.

Mass of Christian Burial for Joe will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 10:00 am at the St. Charles Catholic Church in Bowman.  Fr. Ben Franchuk will celebrate the Mass with burial to follow in the Bowman Cemetery.  Visitation for Joe will be on Friday, August 1, 2025 from 12-9 at the Krebsbach and Kulseth Funeral Home Chapel in Bowman.

Joe was born April 15, 1925 in Bowman, ND to Mark & Marion (Cunningham) Stinchfield.  He was raised on the family farm in Ladd township, Bowman County and attended first through 8th grade at Lone Tree School.  After eighth grade, Joe worked on the Ed McManus farm where he was paid $10 a month plus room and board, he also herded sheep for his sister Doris and built many stone johnnies.  Other jobs he had as a young man were working on a threshing crew and driving for the Dray Line delivering products to and from the railroad..

Joe met the first love of his life, Shirley Egeland, at a dance in Rhame. They were avid dancers throughout their time together.  They took square dancing lessons and could do a mean waltz and polka. They married on September 18, 1947.  Six children were born to this union.  In 1949, Joe went to work for Boyd Himebaugh of H&H Drilling Company.  After several years, Joe  started his own business and in 1956 Stinchfield Ditiching & Well Service began.  When the lean years were over, Joe & Shirley enjoyed traveling, camping & boating, & playing horseshoes.

Joe retired in 1989.  He & Shirley started wintering in Donna, Texas in 1994.  They enjoyed dancing, playing cards, and going to Mexico with their “Snow Bird” friends.

Shirley passed away on May 26, 2006.  The kids encouraged Joe to go back to Texas to get out of the ND winters.  There he met the second love of his life, Janice Brom.  They became dancing partners and soon decided to become life partners.  So at age 83, Joe, packed up his belongings and moved to Mead Lake, Wisconsin.  They were married on October 4, 2008. The couple continued to enjoy Texas living for several years.  With this marriage, Joe gained two step sons, their wives, and 5 granddaughters.  Joe enjoyed many new relatives and friends in Wisconsin as Jan comes from a large close knit family and has many friends.   Joe and Jan enjoyed the lake view living, pontooning, and of course a lot of dancing!  Jan took such good care of Joe.  She loved listening to his stories and making sure he was in tip top shape!   Without her care & love, Joe never would have made it to 100 years.

Joe was always a hard worker and his priority was providing for his family.  He never stopped learning new things and was a common sense man.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; parents, Mark and Marion; siblings, Dorothy (Chet) West, Doris (Virgil West); George Stinchfield, Kenneth (Liz) Stinchfield; and Robert Stinchfield.  Son, Michael Stinchfield; Sons-in-law, Bill Weber, Les Rolph.

He will be greatly missed by his wife Janice Brom; his children, Diane Weber; Bonnie Stinchfield; Debbie ( Terry) Sarsland; Joel Rolph; Mark (Teresa) Stinchfield; Matthew Stinchfield; Brian (Tara) Brom; Nathan (Lisa) Brom; Sister in law, Marce Stinchfield.  
Grandchildren;  Peter (Shelia) Weber; Erin Weber ( David Sullivan); Sunni Hanson (Jason Pearson); Carri Stinchfield (Tad Wells); Stephani (Casey) Frank; Terrill (Mike) Heyen; Curt (Jenn) Sarsland; Tanya Rolph ( Vayourinh Siharath); Jesse Rolph (Payton Caruth); Zach (Phoebe) Stinchfield;  Kayla, Kendra, Kinley Brom; Alice & Samantha Brom
Great grandchildren;  Kayla (Stuart) Collins; Jacob Weber; Kinsley Hanson; Summer and Taylor Wells; Nova and Rowan Frank; Eli, Rhyann, Lucy Heyen; Caleb, Julie Claire, Gabe, and Anna Sarsland; Brennan & Blakely Siharath; Aleah Fertig and Avery Rolph; Lily and Chloe Stinchfield
Many nieces and nephews.

Joe Stinchfield Celebrates a Milestone

 Joe Stinchfield celebrated his 100th birthday in April but the party was held today. Here are a couple of photos showing Joe and Jan along with some of the party goers.

To reach 100 is truly a cause for celebration!

Congratulations Joe on your Birthday Achievement

Allan Wolfe Obituary

 Allan Lane Wolfe, 81, of Chippewa Falls, passed away on June 8, 2025 at his home under the care of Mayo Hospice.

He was born on June 6, 1944 to Wesley and Alice (Anderson) Wolfe in Cornell, WI.

He grew up in Cornell and graduated from Cornell High School in 1962.

Outside of his professional life, Al was a man who found joy and fulfillment in the great outdoors. An avid hunter, he cherished the peaceful solitude of early mornings in nature, often sharing stories from his adventures. Golf was another of his passions — he loved the camaraderie of a day on the course. He had a deep love for traveling. Whether exploring new places or revisiting favorite destinations. He cherished spending time with his brothers, often working together on projects that brought them closer and created lasting memories

Al proudly served his country as a veteran, a commitment he carried with honor throughout his life. He was also a long-standing member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for over 50 years and a licensed Master Electrician. Dedicated to his trade, Al shared his expertise as an electrical apprenticeship instructor at a local technical school, mentoring countless students and helping them build strong, successful careers. Through his service, profession, and passions, Al built a life defined by integrity, generosity, and lasting relationships—always reminding those around him to embrace life’s simple pleasures.

Known for his quick wit and caring nature, his home was always open to family and friends—a place where everyone felt welcome.

Allan is survived by his loving partner, Roxann Herold of Chippewa Falls; his children, Shelby Martin of Houston, MN, Christina Dziuk of Fond du Lac, WI, and Lane (Jeanie) Wolfe of Eau Claire; Grandchildren, Haley Dziuk, Brianna Martin, Jonathan Dziuk, Brett Martin and Maxwell Wolfe; Great Grandchildren, Sarvini Thandapani, Brexton and Beckett Martin; Siblings, William Wolfe, Peter Wolfe, David Wolfe, Bonnie Stordahl and Sharon Shier.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Alice Wolfe; Siblings, Wanda Randall and Virginia Walker; and Son in law: Shawn Martin.

A Memorial Service for Allan will take place on Monday, June 30, 2025 at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Chippewa Falls with Father Tom Oudenhoven officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with services starting at 11:00 a.m. Al will be laid to rest in Prairie View Cemetery following the service.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Allan Wolfe, please visit our flower store.

Allan Wolfe (Abe)

 I just saw on Facebook that Abe Wolfe has passed. I can't find an obituary but Abe and Roxy were residents of Magnolia Park for several years. Abe was involved in music and often sang at the jams. If I do find an obituary, I will post it.

Paul Pfeiffer and Shirl Pfeiffer

 I have received word from Edna Walker that Paul Pfeiffer passed on May 11 and his wife Shirl also passed about a week ago.

I did find mention of an obituary but was unable to read it or share it. Edna told me that they were Magnolia residents when she and Jerry first went to the valley and they were involved in music and golf.

I did not know them as that was before our time but I'm sure some of you must remember them. They apparently lived in the Valley as a funeral home in Harlingen handled their services.

Orlen Anderson Obituary

I received word today from Eileen Misfeldt that Orlen Anderson had passed. He and his wife Shirley lived in Magnolia Park for several years. I do appreciate that Eileen keeps me informed with information like this and it gives us a chance to chat a bit. She and LeRoy are doing fine and I enjoyed chatting with her. We talked about the "good old days" and agreed there will never be anything quite like what we had at Magnolia.! They do miss going south and I told her we do like our park Trails End a lot, of course that could be because so many of our Magnolia neighbors are also there!

Orlen Anderson, 92, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at his home at Prince of Peace Assisted Living.  Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 22, 2025, at George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory in Sioux Falls.  Interment will follow at Hills of Rest Cemetery in Sioux Falls.  Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 21, 2025, also at the funeral home.  

 Orlen was born in Madison, SD to William and Laura (Grove) Anderson on October 31, 1932.  He grew up on the family farm by Howard, SD.  Orlen graduated from Howard High School and worked on the farm for two years.

 On February 10, 1952, Orlen was united in marriage to Carol Ann Nelson at Oldham Lutheran Church in Oldham, SD.  They lived in Madison prior to moving to Sioux Falls where he worked at a commission firm for eight years.  Orlen then worked at the United States Postal Service for 32 years.  Orlen and his wife, Carol Ann were members of the Moose Lodge for 18 years.  On June 13, 1995, Carol Ann passed away.

 On October 23, 1998, Orlen was united in marriage to Shirley Tirrel at Ben Clare United Methodist Church in rural Valley Springs. Orlen and Shirley wintered in Donna, TX for 15 years.  Shirley passed away on May 28, 2018.

Orlen had the remarkable ability to remember dates and years of birthdays and anniversaries of all of his relatives as well as family friends.  He loved to share stories of his childhood on the family farm and how he lived with a married couple in Howard in order to attend high school.  Orlen was very proud of his Norwegian heritage and always looked forward to eating lutefisk and lefsa.

 Left to share his memories are his sons, Donald (Jean) Anderson and Richard (Debbie) Anderson; his daughter, Laurie (Scott) Timmer. Orlen was blessed with ten grandchildren, Rebecca (Tim) Petersen, Daniel Anderson, Heidi Galer, Michaela Anderson, Lucas (Alexis) Anderson, Elizabeth (Dave) Furlong, Benjamin (Jill) Anderson, Joseph (Amanda) Timmer, Kristina (David) Foster, and Andrew (Audrianne) Timmer as well as nineteen great-grandchildren.

 Orlen was preceded in death by his wives, Carol Ann and Shirley; son, Robert Anderson; parents, William and Laura Anderson; brother, Harvey Anderson; sisters-in-law, Lenora Anderson, Laurel Jensen, and Loretta Nelson; brothers-in-law, Orville Jensen, Verlynn Nelson, and Glen Pearson; nephews, Michael Nelson and Wayne Anderson; daughter-in-law, Pam Anderson; and grandson-in-law, Matt Galer.

 

Mary Pierce

 I am saddened to report that I have heard from Mike and Pat Jordan that Mary Pierce has passed. We remember Mary and her husband Max well. I always thought of Mary as the true definition of a "lady" and it seems she always had a smile on her face. She and Leslie C would handle the readings when Magnolia would have our annual Remembrance Service for those who had passed each year

Mary Lou Pierce, age 87, of Stockton, IL passed away Saturday, May 17, 2025. She was born on June 19, 1937 in Freeport, IL to the late Lyle and Daisie (Hardacre) Rife. Lyle passed away when Mary was young and her mother later married Wilbur Wright. Mary married her high school sweetheart, Max Pierce, on August 20, 1955 at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Stockton. 

She was a 1955 graduate of Stockton High School. Mary was an active member of the UU Church in Stockton. She loved bowling with the Motorettes, dancing with her husband, playing cards, gardening, cooking and wintering with her husband in Donna TX. Mary was exceptionally kind, a caretaker to the core. She was always thinking of others and everyone was welcomed in her home. 

She is survived by her husband, Max Pierce; her children, Vicki (Olivier Andreini) Selover, Crystal Pierce, Brian (Patti) Pierce, Rick Pierce and Diane (Dale) Heath; her grandchildren, Jefferson (Amanda) Selover, Regina (Derek) Butler, John (Natasha Hastings) Reiland, Jammie (Mark) Hannis, Jana Reiland, Tony Pierce, Karly (Larry) Gleeson, Jing Jing (Sitai Qin) He, Maria (Ragnar Stefánsson) Heath, Carissa (James) Armstrong, Vince (Chas) Heath and Alissa Adams; her 15 great grandchildren; and her sisters, Phyllis Gothard, Pat Phillips and Sharon (Stan) Cox. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son-in-law, Eugene Selover; her daughter-in-law, Jiao He; and her sister, Shirley Heller and brothers-in-law, Dalvin Heller, Gene Gothard and Don Phillips.

A memorial fund will be established in lieu of flowers. 

A celebration of life potluck will be held at 1pm on Sunday, July 6, 2025 at the Brian & Patti Pierce farm for friends and family.  

This and That

 It was suggested to me that I should post some of my bird pictures and wildlife pictures on the blog as many folks don't have Facebook which is where I usually post them and I like that idea so here are just a few I've taken since we returned home from Texas.

Virginia Stavrum Birthday

 I know it's been ages since I've posted anything so I'm glad I heard from Connie Dziuk today regarding her Mom's birthday.

Virginia Stavrum, who like so many of us, is a former Magnolia Park resident is having her 98th birthday on May 1. That is quite an achievement for anyone to reach.

It would be great if cards could be sent to her to help her celebrate such a milestone. Her address is:

Guardian Angels Care Center, Virginia Stavrum Room 305, 400 Evans Ave NW, Elk River MN 55330. Connie says that her Mom has some memory issues but otherwise is in good health. May 1 is not that far away so lets get those cards in the mail very soon!

The news from former Magnolia residents is getting less and less as the years pass. I am able to keep track of all of those who are in our park Trails End and we are in touch with a few others and sometimes see them in the Valley. It is always good to see old friends, which as I read what I just wrote could be a pun. Long-time friends and we are all getting older but you all know what I meant.

My computer seems to have a mind of its own because it keeps changing what I am typing. That is not a good sign! Our trip home was almost uneventful except for going through Kansas City at rush hour. We won't do that again! In fact, we will go back to our usual route which is straight down through Illinois, over to Little Rock and Texarkana and then south to the Rio Grande Valley. It is the most stress free that's for sure.

My computer is giving me a fight so I guess I'm done. Happy Easter to all and remember, if you have news to share, please do let me know.

Ron Pearce Obituary

 Ronald Earl Pearce, age 80, of Weslaco, Texas passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2024. Ronald was born on February 11, 1944 in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 60 years, Christine B. Pearce and his 3 sons Randy Pearce, Brian (Lisa) Pearce and Aaron (Diane) Pearce. Also left to cherish his memories are 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Ronald is preceded in death by his parents Roderick Pearce and Bernadette Kohler and his brother Tom Pearce.

Mr. Pearce had a big interest in houseboating on the Mississippi River. He spent his married life in Richfield, Wisconsin. He was an EMT and prior he was a credit manager.

Ron Pearce and Roy Benner

 Many of us who were part of the Magnolia family are here in Trails End including Ron and Chris Pearce. Ron had been struggling for several years with declining health and he passed away Thursday morning, December 26, 2024. As of yet I have no further details or obituary but will pass the information along if it becomes available. If you would like to send Chris a card her address is 770 N Bermuda, Weslaco TX 78596. It is not necessary to add Trails End Resort to the address.

I also have received word that Roy Benner has also passed away and his obituary is below.

The family of Roy Benner sadly shares the news of his passing. After a long struggle of various difficulties, he passed at the age of 91 with his wife and daughters at his side on December 21, 2024. Roy was born in Howard City, MI to Leroy & Mable Benner. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, daughter Lauri Brower, son-in-law Howard Smith, grandson Daniel Jousma, and great grand daughter Breanna Otto. He is survived by Shirley, his loving wife of 71 years; daughters Deborah & Cal Karsten, Judy Smith, Christy & Marty Walker, Gale & David Draper, Kim & Gary Donker, 15 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, 5 great great grandchitdren and many nieces and nephews.

Roy served two years in the National Guard, was a talented cabinet maker and an avid sportsman who loved hunting and fishing. Roy and Shirley were always on the road going somewhere, taking the "girls" along with them until they no longer lived in their home. Then the two of them would hook up the Airstream trailer and start off on a journey to wherever the road would lead them. There were not many national parks they didn't visit, nor a state they didn't see. His camera was the eye to his soul, capturing family life and the beauty of God's nature. But, most important to Roy, was his family. As a loving husband and father, he made so many sacrifices to give them what they needed and lots of simple pleasures in life.

Roy, there are many precious memories we have; you have left our earthly life, but you will never leave our hearts. We will always miss you and always love you.

A celebration of life service will be held at Fellowship Reform Church of Hudsonville, 6610-36th Ave., Hudsonville, MI 49426, on Friday January 3, 2025, with visitation at 10:00am, service at 11:00am, and a luncheon to follow.

Christmas Day 2024

 Today in Trails End we got together for Christmas Dinner in our Main Hall. It is done differently here than when we were all  over in Magnolia. Here we sign up for different tables with 12 at each table and the first person on the list is the head of the table and they cook the ham or turkey for that table. Everyone else writes down what they are bringing to contribute to the meal. Pat Jordan took several pictures of those who were at their table which the others in this park call the Magnolia table. We sat at a different table and I know Don & Marty were at the dinner but I'm not quite sure where they sat. A nice time was had by all!

Shirley Truitt and Dick Truitt

Pat & Mike Jordan

Chris Pearce & Gail Lubinsky

Deral Rogers & Keith Gilbertson

Carmen Friesen, DeWayne Friesen and Darlene Jansen

Carmen said on her next birthday she will be 94!

Neil Houzenga Obituary (edited)

 I received word today from Irma Johnson that Neil Houzenga passed away on Thursday. Neil and Julia were long-time residents of Magnolia Park and I remember them well.

NEIL A. HOUZENGA, 91, of Clinton, IA, died Thursday, November 7, 2024, surrounded by his family, at MercyOne Genesis Davenport Medical Center in Davenport, IA.

His funeral service will be at 1:00 PM Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home in Fulton, IL, officiated by Pastor Andrew Foss of Grace Community Church in Clinton. A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Monday, November 11th at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, with an additional one hour of visitation on Tuesday before the funeral service, starting at noon. Interment will be at Fulton Township Cemetery. Memorials have been established to Honor Flight and Heartland Pet Welfare, Inc. in Savanna, IL.

Neil was born October 20, 1933, in Albany, IL, to John L. and Katie (Pessman) Houzenga. He was educated in the Mt. Hope School in rural Whiteside County, and was a 1951 graduate of Fulton High School in Fulton, IL. In those twelve years he never missed a single day of school. Neil served in the U. S. Army during the Korean War. On October 28, 1960 he married Julia J. Buxton in Fulton. From 1951 until 1959 he was employed at the Agrico Fertilizer Plant in Fulton. He then worked until 1965 for the Allen Printing Co. in Clinton, and then at the former Savanna Army Depot in federal service until his retirement in 1993. Neil enjoyed camping and wintering in Texas for 27 years. He was an avid NASCAR fan and loved riding his Harley. He was quite fond of his cat, Maggie Mae, but more than anything he loved spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Julia; one daughter, Kathy (Terry) Rickertsen of Bryant, IA; two sons, Tim Houzenga of North Liberty, IA and Scott (Rhonda) Houzenga of Dahinda, IL; four grandchildren, Tanner Rickertsen, Tyler Houzenga, Megan Houzenga, Josh Houzenga, and one brother, Harlan (Joyce) Houzenga of Fulton.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Andy Rickertsen.

If you'd like to send a card, Julia's address is: 2530 Friendship Trail - Unit 3105, Clinton IA 52732

Ron Wingert Obituary

Ronald  T. Wingert, age 90, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota died Saturday, October 26, 2024 at Avera McKennan Hospital surrounded by his family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, October 31, 2024 at St. Therese Catholic Church in Sioux Falls. Visitation will be 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 30 at George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory, with a Liturgical Wake at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in St. Michael Cemetery in Sioux Falls.

He was a loyal husband and father. Ron and Elaine shared 70 years of marriage.

Ron was born on November 8, 1933, to George and Lenore (Prues) Wingert in Canistota, SD. He grew up on a farm outside of Humbolt and graduated in 1951. He was in the Army and Army Guard.

Ron married Elaine Ruth Varns on August 24, 1954, and went on to have twelve children.

Ron spent most of his career with the United States Postal Service. (1965-1993) He and Elaine were long-time members of St. Therese Catholic Church. They were active members of the American Legion and Moose Lodge. When he wasn’t fixing and moving houses, he was gardening and having a beer with friends.

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Elaine; children; Susan Widrig of Sioux Falls, son-in-law, Deral Rogers of Sioux City, IA,  Ann Johnson of Rapid City, Janet (Mike) McKenzie of Yankton, Thomas (Mary) of Sioux Falls, Charles, of Sioux Falls, Nancy (Ron) Seaman of Sioux Falls, Sharon Simonson of Sedan, MN, Julie (Paul McCollar) of Sioux Falls, Jenifer (Todd) Antrim of Sioux Falls, and Christine (Brad) Johnson of Sioux Falls, many grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings, Mary Lou (Jack) Tunender of Sioux Falls, Eileen (Cecil) McCoy of Sioux Falls, Patricia Leber of Parker, and Francis (Tuny) Wingert of Sioux Falls.  

Ron was preceded in death by son, John, and daughter, Linda Rogers; sons-in-law, Vern Widrig, Bobby Johnson and Brian Simonson; daughter-in-law; Cindy Wingert; brothers, Gerald (Gayle), Alvin (Rose Marie) and brother-in-law, Ron Leber and many other family and friends.

This and that

 I know it's been quite a while since I last posted and it does seem as though all I've put on lately are obituaries.

I have no Magnolia news at all but thought I would chit-chat a bit about "this and that". We have had an interesting summer weather-wise as it rained almost non-stop for what seemed like months and now the faucet has been turned off. In other words, we could use some rain as we go into the fall season. Our Amish neighbors kept us supplied for several weeks with delicious sweet corn but I think that season is about over as they have their corn sign covered up. They do have lots of other produce though and it's very convenient to take a short walk up the road and pick up whatever vegetable or melon we may want and their prices are right!

The grass has certainly slowed down and we'll only have to mow a few more times I would think, especially if it doesn't rain. A few trees are starting to show some fall color but I would say we are a long way from peak color. We have not had any freeze yet although our buildings have had frost on the roofs a few times. 

I have been working on a quilt top which I thought I would have done as it's for a bed in Texas but so far that hasn't happened. Too many other things going on!

All of our summer birds have headed south so the view out the window is not so interesting. We do have quite a few deer including does with either one or two fawns and also a small buck, maybe two as it's hard to tell at this point if we see the same one or a different one. Their antlers are not impressive, at least not at this point.

Jim is done extracting honey and we will be taking two cases with us down to Texas, that's 24 jars and 16 of those are already spoken for. If you regularly get honey from us and haven't reserved a jar yet and you would like some you have to let me know.

That's all the news from Central Wisconsin and I hope all is well in your neck of the woods!!

Raul Saldivar Obituary (Updated)

 

Obituary for Raul Saldivar, Sr.

Raul Saldivar, Sr., 89, beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away on Monday, August 19, 2024 at his home in Donna, Texas. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Minden with Fr. Maurice Current officiating. Interment will be held later that day at 1:30 p.m. at Pleasant Hill Cemetery near Axtell. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Rosary service at 6:00 p.m. Memorials in Raul’s honor are kindly suggested to the family for later designation. Arrangements are under the care of Craig Funeral Home in Minden.

Raul was born October 10, 1934 in San Benito, Texas to Santos Serna and Augustine Saldivar. Raul was united in marriage to Julia Alvarado in 1956 and together they built a life and family. They settled in Axtell where they raised five children: Raul Jr., Rene’, Rolando, David, and Mary.

Raul worked for the Axtell and Funk Co-op until his retirement. He was an avid sports enthusiast and played softball as a pitcher in the Axtell and Funk leagues. He had a generous spirit, enjoyed fixing bikes and donating them to children in need.

Raul will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His laughter, kindness, and love for life will forever remain in our hearts.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Raul (Ellen) Saldivar, Jr. of Omaha, Rene’ (Cindi) Saldivar of Kearney, Rolando Saldivar of Omaha, Mary Saldivar of Phoenix, AZ; 12 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; siblings, Jose Saldivar of San Benito, TX, Robert Saldivar, Sr. of Houston, TX, Jesse (Chris) Saldivar of San Benito, TX, Augustine Saldivar, Jr., of Mercedes, TX, Gilbert Saldivar of Harlingen, TX, Alicia (David) Duran of Dallas, TX, and Martha (Gilbert) Anzaldua of Harlingen, TX; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his son, David Saldivar in 1981.

Dick Nelson

 I heard from Darlene Jansen today that Dick Nelson has passed away. From what she knew, he had fallen about a week ago. I have looked everywhere for more information on Dick but could find nothing. Dick and his wife Anita were long-time residents of Magnolia Park. They lived on Pecos and I remember them both very well. Dick was an excellent pool shooter although in later years he didn't play much. If I find more information I will post it.