The information on this page was taken from the responses sent from the 25th reunion.
No home addresses or telephone numbers are listed on this site. Email addresses will be
published and updated as they are made available. If you want home addresses or telephone
numbers, contact a class member on the email link page and ask them to send the
information you desire.
John L. Allen (Wellman, IA)
Briefly - I wake up... That’s the most difficult thing I do all day. 25 years ago,
I’m quite sure I did that. Then it was personal hygiene, eating, working, eating,
working, eating, relaxing, sleeping. And then I usually did that again, and I still do.
***
Julie Allen Reschly (Dan, Keota, IA) No Information given.
***
Marilyn Anderson (North Liberty, IA)
I live in North Liberty. I have worked at University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics for 16
years, as a supervisor in Central Sterilizing. I enjoy camping in the summer time in
Guttenberg and traveling.
***
Ann Barber Wesner (Robert, Wellman, IA; e-mail: srbarber@aol.com)
After graduation from Mid- Prairie, I attended Colorado State University where I received
a bachelor’s degree in economics. I enjoyed Colorado a great deal, and had planned to
return there after spending two years in graduate school at Washington University in St.
Louis. I completed my MBA at Washington University in 1978, and worked for the Monsanto
Company in marketing research for three years. I met my first husband in graduate school
where he also received his MBA. He worked in commercial lending at First National Bank in
St. Louis so it seemed like a logical move when we decided to return to Wellman in 1981 to
work for my family business, Wellman Savings Bank. Dan died very suddenly of an acute
asthma attack six years ago. After much consideration, I decided to sell the bank four
years ago. I look back fondly (for the most part!) on our days at the bank, and have no
regrets about my decision to sell, given the circumstances. At about the time we sold the
bank, I met my second husband, Bob Wesner. He is a physician in private practice at Mercy
Hospital in Iowa City, and we were introduced at The Festival of Trees, a fund-raising
event for the Mercy Hospital Foundation. We were married in 1994 and have continued to
live in the house that I built in Wellman 12 years ago. Our home is on an acreage which we
enjoy, and Bob doesn’t seem to mind the commute to Iowa City. I work part-time with
my family in the investment business. It is something I studied in graduate school, but
have enjoyed getting more personally involved in the past four years. I am also active on
the Mercy Hospital Foundation Board and the American Cancer Society Board in Iowa City.
Bob and I enjoy traveling, and I feel fortunate that by working part-time, I have the
flexibility to take time off when he does. He works long hours and has little flexibility
with his medical practice. We are looking forward to a trip to Scotland for two weeks in
June. It has been fun working on the 25th reunion committee, and I look forward to seeing
everyone in July. I have very fond memories of the 20th at Dwight’s, and hope that
we’ve done as good a job as that planning committee did!
***
Steve Barnes (Washington, IA) No Information given.
***
Jane Bauer Beranek (Pella, IA)
For the past 21 years, Jim & I have been raising 4 daughters. Jami is 21 years old,
Jonna is 19, Jenni is 16 and Jessi is 13. We are moving from Parkersburg this summer to
Pella, Iowa - where Jim will be the Pastor of the United Methodist church. In Parkersburg,
I have worked as secretary for the Aplington-Parkersburg High School.
***
Judy Bauer & Doug Showalter (Wellman, IA)
Doug & I have three children. Annie is 16 years old and in 10th grade. She was lucky
enough this year to be able to play on the volleyball and basketball teams for
Mid-Prairie, both of which went to state. She also made a trip to Washington, DC this
Spring with the band. Chad is 13 years old and in 7th grade. He played both football and
basketball this year and is getting ready for baseball. He plays trombone in the Jr. High
Band. Joshua is 8 years old and in 2nd grade. He likes playing with his older brother and
enjoys playing soccer and t-ball. His soccer team went undefeated last year. Our family is
still living on the home place where Doug grew up. Although Doug has been unable to farm
since receiving a head injury in an auto accident in October 1993, we rent out our farm
and enjoy living in the country. Doug has recently gotten a job working for Systems
Unlimited. This is a group home for disabled people. He is enjoying this work. I’m
still working for Fisher Insurance Agency in Kalona, going on my 12th year.
***
Chuck Beckman (Ruth, Sylmar, CA )
I went to the University of Iowa from Fall 1972 through the Spring of 1974. Sometime
during that brief education, I decided to learn to play the electric bass. I bought a real
cheap setup from Jerry Huffman for $50.00, and took a couple of lessons, and started to
play with a group of guys in Iowa City. Sometime in the Spring of 1974, I began painting
gas stations, and got involved with the Church of the Living Word in Washington, which was
at that time overseeing the building of Shiloh. I have been involved with this fellowship
of churches ever since then. If any of you remember, I was pretty much a confirmed atheist
in high school, but I think life has dealt me a real good dose of reality. At any rate, I
continued playing bass in church and for weddings and parties; it has been the most fun
thing I have ever done. I lived at Shiloh for 6 months in 1977-78, and then moved to
Portland, Oregon where I met my wife Ruth. We were married on February 24, 1979 and had
our son Jesse Michael there, and moved to the Los Angeles area in 1983 where our daughter
Corinne Nicole was born. Jesse will be a Junior this year and Corinne will be in 7th
grade. I continued to paint for a living, and started to play with a couple of bands in
some local clubs, and was part of a back-up band for a comedy duo. I also did some
freelance gigs with various musical situations, and some recording for music demos, etc. I
am now working with a lot of the young musicians in our church, including my son who plays
guitar, and giving lessons and career advice to whoever wants it. Perhaps in about 6 years
I can rethink my career choices and pursue music more full-time. One thing I have to tell
you: This is the best time of my life, and I am very proud of my family and friends. Some
of you I got to know very well, and some of you I didn’t get to know so well, but
please know that I remember all of you very fondly, and I am proud to be part of this
class. I am looking for the opportunity to see you and do some catching up. Pretty much
every year I come back and help put on the Shiloh Fourth of July celebration and love it.
***
Dorothy Bender Simmering (Bob, Muscatine, IA)
Our family has lived and worked in Muscatine since 1974. We have four children. Marcia is
23 and in the doctorate program at Michigan State in East Lansing. She is in the HR Field
but hopes to teach college. Nathan is 21 and will be a senior this fall at U of I. He is
majoring in Mechanical Engineering and minoring in Computer Science. Vanessa is 18 and has
been accepted to the U of I where she will be working toward a masters in Clinical
Psychology. Erin is 14, is taking driver’s-ed. this summer, and will be a freshman at
MHS in the fall. She loves anything to do with animals, and thinks working in a zoo would
be great! All four kids have been very active in band, and the girls in vocal music and
drama. Nathan and Vanessa are each involved in a serious, long-term relationships, so
we’re taking bets on who gets married first. Meanwhile Mom & Dad get to work hard
to keep three kids in college. Bob has been County Engineer for Muscatine County since
1978, and has been Louisa County Engineer also since 1995. He loves sports, and plays
tennis and golf. He also loves to work. The two of us together have built 43 houses since
1985, and now we are involved in subdivision development. I started working construction
part-time in 1985, went to full time in 1989, then shifted gears to real estate in 1992. I
am co-owner of a real estate company here in Muscatine, where I market our houses and
subdivisions.
***
Dave Benson (Des Moines, IA) No information given.
***
Janice Bush Groff (Dennis, North English, IA)
Attended Kirkwood in floriculture 1972-73. Married Dennis Groff on October 13, 1973. Owner
of a flower shop (Living Green Flower Shop) for 10 years in Montezuma. The flower shop is
in a big old Victorian house for the past three years. We have a daughter Kimberly (17)
that graduated this year and a son Bradly (16). Dennis teaches in Belle Plaine and owns a
porta potty business. Our home for the last 16 years has been in Millersburg.
***
Robert Christner (Karen, Kalona, IA)
I can’t believe it has been 25 years. But a lot has went on with us all. I am now
working for the City of Kalona, Karen and I will be celebrating our 24th wedding
anniversary in October. Our oldest son, Casey, is 19 and going to be a sophomore at the
University of Dubuque. He plays college basketball and is majoring in Business. Our
youngest son, Barry, is 14 and going to be a freshman at M-P, an exciting time. We are
busy going to Mid-Prairie events and college activities. We still play softball,
racquetball and officiate basketball games. Looking forward to seeing all at the class
reunion.
***
Cindy Coleman Hahn (Kenny, Iowa City, IA)
The last five years have passed with trials and tribulations, like many of my classmates I
imagine. I have seen both my sons graduate with honors from high school, experienced the
deep sorrow of losing my mother to cancer and recently changed jobs after many years in
the same specialty. All of these experiences have made me feel my age! I’m currently
employed at Iowa City Heart Center as an office nurse for Dr. Linda Lee. Cardiology was
quite a change from OB-GYN, but I’m learning to love it. Special thanks to our
classmates who are so willing to organize our reunions. It takes lots of work and time --
I really appreciate it!
***
Russell Cox (Clinton, IA) No information given.
***
Connie Crone Forinash (Mike, Washington, IA)
Mike & I have been married for 24 years, we have two sons, Bryan 22 years old and he
is a student at the University of Iowa and will graduate in May. Aaron is 19 years old and
is a student at St. Ambrose in Davenport, where he also plays football on scholarship.
Since 1989 I worked for IES Utilities in Washington as a dispatcher, that is until
December of this past year when my job was moved to Cedar Rapids. Mike and I chose not to
move to Cedar Rapids to retain my job, so I took my severance package and bid IES a Fond
Farewell. I now am working for an Edward Jones Investment broker in Washington, learning
all about the investment business. Mike became a Mac Tool Distributor in 1990, thus the
beginning of Forinash Tool, and most of the time he loves every moment of it.
***
Carol Crossett Malichky (Jim, Riverside, IA)
After graduation I attended Kirkwood for a year in the accounting program and lived with
Cindy Coleman in Cedar Rapids. We had lots of fun and did some studying too! In the next
few years I worked at Kalonial Industries (remember the trailer factory?) and for Doc
Greiner the Vet in Kalona. Married Jim Malichky from the Class of 1973. We’re still
together (21 years!) and have 3 terrific kids. Corey is 19 and attends Kirkwood in the Ag
Program. Chris is 17 and a Junior at Highland School & Cassie is 15 and a Freshman at
Highland. We live at the same place we’ve lived since we got married. Jim farms with
his Dad. I have been with Avon as a District Sales Manager for 8 years now and love it! I
have 5 counties that I cover and a staff of 300 to watch over and motivate to sell more. I
have a great job that has lots of great incentives for me to work for. Besides the gifts,
I get to do quite a lot of traveling. Just got back from another cruise and went to the
Olympics for 5 days last summer. That was a real highlite! Looking forward to seeing
everyone at the reunion!
***
Pat Curl (Wellman, IA) No information given.
***
Steve Curtis (Des Moines, IA)
I’ve worked for August Home Publishing (formerly Woodsmith) for 11 years. I currently
am shop manager in our woodworking shop. We build the projects that are photographed for
Woodsmith, Shopnotes, Workbench & Garden Gate magazines. I build several pieces of
furniture each year for myself, friends, or family but since I do it for a living
it’s not as much fun as it was when it was a hobby. I still like to travel, hunt and
fish. I’ve taken up wildlife-nature photography and try to attend several seminars
each year to learn more about it. I know this info isn’t as interesting as what I
gave you in 1992, but neither is my life! Looking forward to seeing everyone (?) again.
***
Joanne Dickel Miller (George, Washington, IA) No information given.
***
Victoria Ann Durian (November 5, 1953 - June 25, 1980).
In loving memory of my best friend and sister Vicki:
I remember Vicki always saying that the class of ‘72 was the best class Mid-Prairie
ever had. There was a bond between classmates that could never be broken. Vicki always
felt her class was one you could laugh with, cry with, share your deepest secrets, your
wildest dreams and know your friends would still be there for you. Many of these strong
friendships started in childhood when we lived on 9th Avenue in Wellman. Think back Marcy,
Jane & Vicki - do you remember walking to school together, playing dolls in the
playhouse, having parades, and singing for all the neighbors on tin cans? What fun and
happy memories. We don’t know why God thought it was Vicki’s time to leave this
Earth or why he chose such a tragic way to take her away from us. All we have now are
memories. When I see her classmates I always see a part of Vicki. I think of all the fun
times she would tell me about when you were in high school. I wonder what she would look
like at age 43, would she have gray hair, wrinkles, be married with kids. Just what would
she be doing. I like to think of her as an angel, watching us, guiding us, just being an
invisible part of our life. Tonight as you all celebrate your 25th Class Reunion, remember
Vicki, her warm smile and laughter, the fun times you had together.....and remember too
the love she felt for her fellow classmates. I’m sure she will be there in spirit,
listening as you talk about what you have been doing the last 25 years and recalling the
good ole days at Mid-Prairie High School. I want to thank you all for being my
sister’s friend and sharing with her a large part of her life.
Deeply Missed, Never Forgotten ...... Mary Durian Kauffman
***
Robert Duvall (Jane, West Chester, IA)
Still living North of West Chester and have 100 sows and am farrow to finish with the
pigs. Last Spring 1996 I drove a nurse truck tanker for Wellman Farm Center. Last Fall
1996 I then worked for Kevin Flynn at Exporter Elevator, hauling in grain to the elevator
and fall field work. In January & February of 1997 on weekends, my son Nicholas and I
took the semi truck driving class at Kirkwood in Cedar Rapids. We both did well and now
have our Class A CDL License. I took extra tests for tanker and hazardous materials. Now
Spring 1997, April and May, I am driving a nurse tank truck for Blackhawk Soil Service in
West Chester. That’s about all for now, trying to keep busy.
***
Dwight Duwa (Wellman, IA)
Have lived in the Wellman area all of the last 25 years. Still auctioneering and have two
daughters: B.J. who is 15 years old and Jordan who is 6.
***
Mary Lou Eash Barton (Bob, San Bernardino, CA)
I’m married to Bob Barton, a Southern California man who found me in Africa.
We’ve lived in California, the land of fajitas and lemon puff dessert, since 1987.
Megan (7) and Sally (5) provide our entertainment by looking for their shoes when
we’re ready for a family bike ride on the fire access roads of the San Bernardino
foothills.
***
Kathy Ehrenfelt West (Wellman, IA) No information given.
***
Ken Ehrenfelt (Terry Roberts, Iowa City, IA)
Went to Kirkwood in 1973 then entered the Air Force for four years. Started working at the
University of Iowa in 1978 doing refrigeration and a/c. Not married, no children!
***
Dick Ehrenfelt (Panama City, FL) No information given.
***
Abby Fisher Osborn - unable to locate
***
Marvin Fisher (Vickie, Wichita, KS ; e-mail: dnxs41a@prodigy.com)
I attended Hesston College where I was an Athletic Trainer for mens & womens
basketball, soccer and mens & womens track. I was the public address announcer for the
mens soccer and basketball and handled the travel arrangements for the teams. For two
summers worked on a wheat harvesting crew based in Kansas. I graduated from Hesston
College and moved to Wichita, KS initially to work with Young Life as a volunteer leader.
I began working in a men’s clothing store and attended First Mennonite Brethren
Church where I met my wife, Vickie. We were married in October of 1975 in Marion, Kansas,
Vickie’s hometown. I received my Commodity Brokers license in 1975 and worked for
Peavey Company and then was hired by Merrill Lynch to open a commodities office in
Wichita. I was with Merrill Lynch until 1982. During this time we were active in the
church. Vickie and I served as youth sponsors. I served as Midwest Coordinator for the
Mennonite Brethren Broadcasting Group. I scheduled tours and fund raising banquets and
worked with local broadcasting groups. I served on the local board for Young Life which
was responsible for fund raising and oversight of the ministry. Vickie served as church
organist and I served on various boards and committees. In June of 1979, we lost a son due
to a premature delivery. Then in July of 1980 Ashley Renae was born and our lives changed
for the better. I resigned from Merrill Lynch in May of 1982 as I was burned out and over
stressed after 7 1/2 years in the commodity market. A good friend offered me a job as a
donut delivery person and I delivered donuts from 4-8 a.m. and from 12-5 p.m. and then
started my career as a softball official. I received my insurance license in 1982 and
began what is now my lifelong career as a financial planner. Also at the time I began
refereeing high school volleyball and basketball which led to college volleyball. Vickie
had been doing a small amount of Mary Kay and when I resigned, she decided it would be a
great way to earn some cash to tide us over while I was starting a new career. That way to
earn some "cash" has developed into a large business. Vickie has earned 7 cars,
four of them Cadillacs and lots of "cash" and many awards and prizes. My current
stint in politics began in 1989 when I was appointed to the Wichita Board of Park
Commissioners where I have served as president twice and vice president three terms. This
will end in July of 1997. I am serving and have served on various city and county boards
as they relate to parks and recreation and will continue that for sometime, but will not
run for an elected office as the hassle and time commitment are too great. After many
years of trying and confused doctors, Vickie became pregnant. She spent 5 months in bed on
medication to stop the contractions and complications. During this time, we decided to
build a new house as we knew a larger house was in order. Vickie would look at designs and
ideas while in bed and I would drag home wallpaper samples and paint chips so she could
work on the colors. We ended up with a custom built ranch in a suburban neighborhood.
Along came our son Aaron Mackenzie in January 1992 and our house has never been the same.
We moved and Vickie was pregnant with Allegra Noel, who was born December 1994. We realize
that our home will be an active one for many years to come! Allegra is three and is taking
ballet and tap dancing lessons, Aaron is 5 and is in t-ball and will be going to
kindergarten in the fall and can’t wait to ride the school bus. Ashley will be a
senior at Maize High School this fall. She has maintained a 4.0 average through middle
school and high school while taking honors classes. Ashley is very active in music both in
school and church where she sings on a worship team and frequently solos. She has been
taking lessons at Friends University during her junior year and Friends is expressing a
strong interest in her and the chair of the music department is assisting us in putting
together a full ride scholarship for Ashley. Vickie is busy with the kids and her Mary Kay
business, yet she still finds time to accompany Ashley on the piano and play for our
church -- West Evangelical Free. I am now a Certified Financial Planner with SunAmerica
Securities, where I am a Branch Manager with six Registered Representatives in my branch.
I also serve as the President-Elect for the Kansas Institute of Certified Financial
Planners. I am keeping active in politics and serving on various church boards and
community committees. It came as a shock when I realized that I have lived in Kansas far
longer than I lived in Iowa. Iowa will always be my birthplace .... but Kansas is now my
home.
***
Pat Forinash (Luann, Riverside, IA) No information given.
***
Rick Fuhr (Cedar Rapids, IA) No information given.
***
Bev Furgason Ellis ( West Chester, IA)
Have worked at McCleery Cumming for 23 years. Two children, 1 granddaughter who will be
one in April.
***
Inez Gingerich Houk (Mark, Spokane, WA)
Attended Mid-Prairie Jr. High with class of 1972 for grades 7 & 8. Graduated from
Scott Community College in 1978 from Nursing (RN). Married Mark Houk in December 1979.
Moved to Seattle, Washington in January 1981 and Spokane October 1981 to present. Three
children: Jonathan age 16; Brandon age 13 & Mahlon age 3. I am an accountant/
bookkeeper for husband’s business - Houk Chiropractic Clinic. Sorry I won’t be
able to attend- my kids are coming & going to camps & I can’t get away.
Thanks so much for the invitation.
***
Mary Gingerich Paustian (Tipton, IA)
Children: Brian 19 years, Jason 15 years, Sean 11 years. Still employed as Deputy Assessor
for Cedar County.
***
Darla Goodlander Koon (Galloway, OH) No information given.
***
Rhonda Goodwin Wilkens (Rick, Clive, IA)
I have been working as a Hospice nurse at the Kavanagh Facility in Des Moines. I enjoy
working part-time and find caring for the terminally ill very rewarding. Rick and I
recently had a baby daughter, Rachel, on Memorial Day weekend. We also have a 2 year old
son Jonathan, who is very active and into everything. We have an older son Steve, who is
15 and soon will have a school driving permit. He started working his first job this
summer sacking groceries, and is learning the value of a dollar. He sure likes to spend it
too. He has been selected by his teachers as an outstanding student and received an
academic letter his first year of high school. Kathryn (identical twin of Heidi) was
killed on November 15, 1988 at the age of 5. Heidi is 14 years old. She is very confident
and outgoing. Has received an award for congeniality. Heidi is becoming a more serious
student. This past semester she received all A’s except for math which is a struggle
for her (Doug do you remember helping me in math?). David was born August 4, 1993 and died
shortly after birth. Jonathan born March 22, 1995 and Rachel born May 25, 1997. Our family
enjoys biking, snow skiing and music. Looking forward to reading what the rest of the
class has been doing. I hope to see you at the reunion.
***
Janell Grout Peters (Donald, Monticello, IA)
I own my own business, Limestone Studios & Gardens. Spring, Summer & Fall I offer
a plant sale and host tours of my garden & 1920’s original farmstead, complete
with farm animals and out buildings. I plan on remodeling the 1920’s barn to house a
studio and selling floor. In 1995, I completed the ISU Master Gardener program. My
volunteer work is writing a garden column for the paper. In the Winter, I am an
architectural artist, drawing advertising for Bed & Breakfasts across the nation. No
kids, no time.
***
Vicki Grout Adam (Ken, Riverside, IA)
I have been married for 19 years to Ken. We live on an acreage northeast of Kalona. We
have two children. Mike who is 17 and will be a senior this fall and Kelly who is 13 and
will be in 8th grade. I work for Mid-Prairie Schools and have for the past 8 years. I do a
number of different jobs and enjoy it very much. Hi to everyone from the Class of 1972.
***
Michael Hartley (Debbie, IA ; e-mail: thedlab@aol.com).
Sorry I couldn’t make it, my family is in an outdoor musical called "The City of
Joseph" in Nauvoo Illinois. It starts tonight for two weeks. It ranks as one of the
top three outdoor musicals in America. I had to go! Since last time ... My family is
everything still, I would be lost without them. Debbie loves me! And that makes me a
fortunate person. We have been married 19 years last April. We try to date weekly, and
usually succeed. She makes life easier for me. She is home with our children and
definitely the one with the most important talents and responsibilities. I can’t keep
up with her and I don’t let it bother me anymore unless I have to write about it. She
just finished 8 college credit hours to keep her degree in Special-Ed K-6 current for
another 5 years. She wants to teach again someday. We love our family, our home, church
and community. My children: Alicia (18) Freshman BYU 9/97. Undeclared major but leaning
towards Japanese-Business. Four years of high school Japanese with a two week spring break
trip to Japan March 1997. Works at Donutland on Hwy 1 in IC. Has her own business called
"Picture This" -- a photo album creative memories type of business doing well.
She also works at the lab doing my billing. She went on an orchestra trip to Europe in
1996, I chaperoned, two weeks, somebody had to do it, culture! We did all of the Varsity
wrestling meets this past winter season together cheering Ben (17) Senior City High. 189
pound Varsity wrestler; ‘73 VW owner; Eagle Scout. WOW!, I’m proud of that kid.
He does percussion for City High Marching Band, his BODY gets into the rhythm, he’s
awesome. The girls love him, is it because he’s 6’2"
(what’s-up-with-that) or just debonair? He dies his hair, life could be worse, honor
roll, does roller blading at Rampage in Davenport weekly. Among so many other things he
picks on Megan (14) Freshman City High. Prettiest eyes you’ve ever seen, first chair
oboe, and an animal lover. Last I checked she still wants to be a vet or run an animal
store. She has to go everywhere you go and is very clothes conscious, just not enuf for
mom. She has only missed one half day of school since kindergarten because the doc
wouldn’t let her go due to strep, that alone almost did her in. She will be my
traveling wrestle buddy in 97/98 to Ben’s meets with Brian (12) 7th grade. He makes
me smile. He is a quiet thinker but when he speaks, be on your toes, catch the meaning and
admire the wit. He is casual and cool. He got "swimmer" at scout camp this year
and was tickled with himself. He juggles devil sticks in parades, that means he’s
good and has two paper routes to support his needs. The Junior High football coach has
already called to assure "himself" Brian would be there this fall. Brian
doesn’t have time for Aaron (9) 4th grade. Creek explorer: turtles, crayfish,
tadpoles, frogs, etc. etc. Yesterday he brought home a duck that had a chunk out of
it’s neck (dog suspected). The shelter told him he did the right thing, they were
able to save it’s life. Aaron beamed. Reminds me when Dick Ehrenfelt and I were
skinny dipping at camp creek, Dick’s mom drove by and wanted us to stand up. Just
thought I’d throw that in....How are you Richard? Aaron always has an audience with
Garrett (6) 1st grade. Granted all my kids are cute, handsome, whatever, but ladies this
little guy will steal your heart. And he knows how. I’m kinda protective of Garrett,
he’s just a little guy, his teachers love him, cause he’s so cute like his dad.
He’s fair game to Kara (2.5) she acts so mature. Debbie wanted a little girl for our
last one and it happened. Kara and I have a neat relationship, she likes to play and so do
I, she likes to do just about everything else I do and so do I. I can’t explain Kara,
she’s just my sweet girl, and as pretty as a long curly haired little girl can be. I
feel like a pretty lucky guy and I think I know why ... My business "The Dental Lab,
Inc" is doing OK. I work for Dentists in Iowa City and surrounding area plus a few
other states. We do quality work at a good price. I have 5 employees. My specialty is
setting artificial teeth in wax for dentures. It keeps me busy. My E-mail address is
THEDLAB@AOL.COM. "D" is for DENTAL, that’s good enuf for me. I try a
fishing trip to Nestor Falls, Canada yearly.
We fly a beaver (plane) to a remote lake and relax and of course catch a lot of fish. Ben
goes and we enjoy ourselves. I’ve been released as Bishop of our congregation (which
is a shared lay ministry) and I’ve been a Scoutmaster for a couple years ... still
am. In the fall I can hear the Hawkeye Marching Band from my work and home doorstep and it
brings back memories. Good ones. Oppenheimer funds for the long haul. Gateway 2000 is
still my choice for computers. Cressida’s. By the time we do this again I hope to: be
a grandpa (wow), have two more out of high school, not own a suburban, have a son on a
mission, love my wife more than I do today and be able to go to my 30 year class reunion
as well as so many other things. E-mail me or write, I’ll have time to write back. I
wish you all continued good life and I wish I could have been there.
***
Karen Hazelton Bender (Cecil, Macon, MO) No information given.
***
Floyd Helmuth (Esther, Kalona, IA)
Owner of Helmuth Repair, where we sell and service a short line of farm equipment -- Arts
Way grinder mixers, Knight equipment, Karcher pressure washers. We have four children:
Kristi - 17, Brandon - 13, Anthony - 9, & Lindsay - 8. Floyd is an Associate Pastor at
Sunnyside Mennonite Church.
***
Wava Helmuth Gingerich (Plain City, OH) No information given.
***
Carol Hershberger Wiles (Don, Kalona, IA ) No information given.
***
Marcus Hershberger (June,Wellman, IA)
What have we been doing for the past 25 years? Yep, it does come to that doesn’t it.
Maybe that’th why I feel tho youthleth? Forgive me if the main points are getting a
bit cloudy, and I change them to sound better. Smile. After High School, I spent the first
4 years working summer jobs and attending Rosedale Bible Institute in Ohio for 2 years. I
was part of a touring choir that traveled in the Western US one year and in the South
Eastern US another year. I worked at driving a feed delivery truck (dated my future wife
in it occasionally) did some construction (Village Inn in Iowa City for one) and drilled
water wells with "Miller The Driller". Finally, after all that feed delivery,
June Miller agreed to be my wife and we married on September 18, 1976. Among other things
we both wanted to see the world, so by the following summer, we were learning Spanish in
Costa Rica and spent the next 2 1/2 years in Nicaragua doing Community Health Promotion
and then directing the program that was sponsored by the Mennonite Church. On our return
home in 1980 we traveled for 2 months in Central America, Mexico, and the Western US until
I turned a fine shade of yellow with Hepatitis, and the doctor said I either must go
straight home to rest, or be confined to the Hospital in Denver. We went home, where I
contracted paratroopers disease (fell off a roof, crushing my heel). I started my college
education on crutches and graduate five years later (BS - Mechanical Engineer, U of Iowa,
May 1985) being congratulated by my wife and our 2 week old daughter Emily (now 12 years
old). We lived in North Liberty, IA during that time. The following five years I spent
developing new photographic products at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, New York. Our second
daughter, Vanessa (now 9), was born there (Rochester, not Kodak) and we became home
owners. But we still had the urge to travel and interact with the unknown world (to us)
soooo in 1990 we took a position with Mennonite Central Committee in Tanzania, Africa, as
MCC Co-Representatives for Tanzania. We sold our house, and moved to Nyabange, a small
village close to Lake Victoria, where we subsisted on snails, snakes, grubs, spiders, and
roots. (I might have lied about that last part.) We learned the local language of Swahili
and began our frequent bouts with malaria. As part of our work we got to travel widely in
East Africa. Jonathan (now 5) was born in Tanzania and completes our family. He was good
for a lot of laughs as he learned Swahili and English at the same time. This year we
terminated this job after 6 1/2 years. Except for High School with all you lucky people,
this is my longest period of doing one thing or being in one place (Okay, so we did move
once during that time). At the time of this writing we are free - no house, no job, no
worries (Hakuna matata). Okay, maybe a few small worries.... Anybody want to support me?
***
Nelson Hershberger (Sue, Kalona, IA)
Children: Renea, 20 years old; twins Andrew & Angela, 17 years old. For three years
after graduation I worked in the office of a feed dealership. For two years I worked in
the parts department of an implement store. The past 22 years I have farmed in rural
Kalona. We farm about 400 acres and have hogs, cattle, and sheep. Sorry I could not attend
the reunion.
***
Joy Hochstedler Miller (Leon, Kalona, IA)
After graduating from Kirkwood’s Practical Nursing Program I married Leon Miller in
1974. We spent the year of 1975 in Haiti where I worked in a small dispensary/hospital and
had many unique experiences. Then we returned to the U.S. for 8 years. I was a full time
homemaker and mom. In January 1984 we returned to Haiti as missionaries and were there for
7 1/2 years. I will always be glad my children have had this opportunity to see how much
of the world must live. We have four children, from age 13 to age 21. Our oldest son,
Shawn, will be getting married at the end of this summer. Brent, our 18 year old graduated
from Pathway this Spring. We have two beautiful daughters, Sara 15 and Nicole 13.
I’ve just completed my third year as a tutor at Pathway Christian. Leon continues
with Water For Life, making numerous trips to Haiti every year. Our hopes (dreams) include
going back to Haiti to live once our children are grown and gone.
***
Phyllis Hochstedler (Wellman, IA) No information given.
***
Jesse R. Hohenshell (Wellman, IA)
Well, here goes, I am single, working 3rd shift at Kalona Plastics Inc. and doing a few
odd jobs on the side in the morning. I have two boys: Ashley 14 & Ethan 12, 7th and
8th graders. I spend alot of time traveling to see them in Bloomfield and also go to most
of their athletic activities. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I’ll be on
vacation with my boys during the 26th. If I’m in town I’ll go; if not I’ll
be gone. I have them ever other weekend, so I work on the weekends I don’t have them.
Also spend alot of time helping my folks. They’re getting old and I am the only one
in the family. Hobbies include hiking, gardening, reptiles, antique cycles and U.F.O.s.
***
Ralph Hole (Sharon, CO)
25 years, WOW! Well, right out of high school I did a four year stint in the Marines. Got
out for 6 months and then did 2 years in the Army, 82nd Air-Borne. In that period, June
20, 1975 to be exact, I married Sharon Nichols, my wife of 22+ years. We have two
children. Jeannie - 21 a junior at University of Northern Colorado and Jason - 20 a
painter for Merritt Ind. Commerce City, CO (if any of you have Merritt Livestock trailers
three years old or newer, Jason painted the components that are printed). We have made our
permanent home here in LaSalle on 18 1/2 acres. We have a few side lines we tinker with.
Jeannie’s FFA breeding sheep project has turned into Rocky Mountain Corriedales. We
sell fine hand spinning fleeces and raise lambs for show & sale. Jason and I formed
Rebellion Racing, a drag racing expedition. We competed for two years with Jason driving
and me wrenching. After our second car and many, many dollars we backed out of racing and
are concentrating on street cars. Jason has a '68 Chevelle and I have a ‘72 el Camino
(ironic huh?). Last but not least, Sheri & Jeannie play around a little with quarter
horses (I pull the trailer). They did some barrel racing, but now the interest is leaning
toward reining. The mainstay of our livelihood is my "Steering & Gearing" of
a "big truck". I still deliver groceries to Denny’s Restaurants and
Winchells Donut Houses. I run with a permanent partner to cover Colorado, Utah &
Wyoming. Looking back...that’s about it. See you all in July.
***
Phil Houseal (Dawn, Fredericksburg, TX; e-mail: pgh@tenet.edu)
At this point it doesn’t look like I’ll be able to make the reunion. We are
supposed to be in Iowa in June for a wedding. One 2200 mile journey in a van with four
kids is about all I can handle a year. Looks like a good set-up, and hope you all enjoy
the show. Children: Hannah age 12; Sayer age 10; Hartley age 4; Willow Belle will be one
in September (yes, you read that last one correctly - don’t I win some sort of
award?). Currently Director of Adult & Community Education for the Kerrville
Independent School District; President of the Texas Community Education Association;
freelance writer and advertising consultant. Bad farmer (1 cow, 4 chickens, 18 peach
trees). What else? I’m old, My knees hurt, My hair is gray.
***
Jerry Huffman (Linda, Creston, IA)
My life since High School has been very boring until recently. Went to U of I for 5 years
for my 4 year degree. Participated in "Town Players" Community Theatre during
summers. Worked at Perfex Factory in Washington from ‘78-’80. Got married for
first time in 1980. Started teaching Speech & Drama at Mid-Prairie 1980-84 (same time
John Woodin was there). Got divorced. Quit. Skipped off to L.A. for a year. Came back to
Iowa and ran a small business in Mt. Pleasant for a couple of years. Moved back to Wellman
and worked for KCII radio for about a year. Went back to U of I in 1988 to get a Master's
degree in counseling. Hired by State of Iowa to work for Vocational Rehabilitation in
Creston in 1990. Got married to Linda and her family in December of 1991. Helped raise her
kids and am expecting first grandchild any minute!
***
John Kanagy (Colorado Springs, CO) No information given.
***
Bob Kinsinger (Sue, Riverside, IA)
Six years ago, we bought 40 acres between Kalona and Iowa City. I’m working for my
dad driving the garbage truck and working at the Kalona Sales Barn. Sue teaches special
education in Washington. We have two boys: Brad is 14 and Nick is 11. The boys are busy
with 4-H, showing horses, and playing ball.
***
Lynn Kleopfer (Charla, Columbia, MO;
email:llkleopfer@compuserve.com)
Eleven years of school which I would never do over again. Fourteen years of working as a
physician for Boyce and Bynum Pathology Services in Columbia, MO. No time to do anything
which is the reason this letter is late. Somewhere, sometime I got married. Two children,
Melanie 21 and Natalie 11. I can’t believe it, but the blood tests prove they are
mine. My wife, Charla, still tolerates me even though I have been trying to drive her
crazy for years. Recently I have started a vigorous exercise program to prepare for the
time when my children will call me an "Old Geezer".
***
Mary Koening French (Mark, Des Moines, IA ; email:
mfrench@ix.netcom.com)
After graduation from M-P, I attended the Medical Institute of Minnesota in Minneapolis
and graduated from there as a Medical Assistant in 1973. I received my certification in
1975, and worked as a Certified Medical Assistant in Des Moines for a cardiologist and a
pediatrician from 1975-1981. I taught briefly at the Des Moines Area Community College as
a substitute teacher in their Medical Assistant Program. After teaching, I started working
at Iowa Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines as a Medical Secretary in the Quality Improvement
Department. I have worked at the hospital since 1983 and have since transferred to the
Medical Staff Office and now work as a Credentialing Specialist. I remained single until I
was 30 and got married to Mark French in 1985. We own an older home on the east side of
Des Moines. My husband works for Pepsi-Cola General Bottler’s and is currently going
to school to become a computer programmer We have an 8 year old boy, Michael, and I also
have two step-children: James age 24 and Timothy age 21 ... and our family cat is a gray
& silver long haired tabby named "Smokey". Our family enjoys camping in our
travel trailer, and bicycling on the bike trails in and around Central Iowa. We have
remodeled our home and I enjoy antique shopping and decorating our home. I can’t
believe it has been 25 years since we’ve been in high school!
***
Gloria LeFever Herdlicka (Ken, Iowa City, IA)
I’ve worked at the University Hospital for most of the time. We have two children, Ty
(16) and Jenna (12). we spend time camping at the Cedar River near Tipton in the summer.
We go to the Iowa Football games and bowl during the fall and winter.
***
Keith Lewis (Tucson, AZ) No information given.
***
John McAndrew (Little Rock, AR) No information given.
***
Donna Miller Byram (Coralville, IA)
I really dislike writing and especially about myself. Numbers (accounting) is my language.
Traveling is my pleasure.
***
Eileen Miller Daniels (Lawton, IA) No information given.
***
Georgia Miller Gingerich (Mark, Goshen, IN )
Happily married to Mark and we’ll celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary this year.
The bicycle shop continues to consume most of our waking hours 6-7 months a year and this
fall we’ll have been there 19 years. Brad, 15 years, is anxious to get his license
and a car. Also, it would be very difficult to do without his help at the bike shop.
Katrina, 13 years, tries my patience on a daily basis. Melissa, 10 years, dislikes being
bossed around by her old brother & sister then has an attitude problem. Raising kids
is quite a challenge, difficult, yet rewarding. All the children are involved with sports,
presently it’s soccer. They are also involved with youth groups at church. I have a
couple of commitments at church and enjoy piecing wall hangings in the few spare minutes I
squeeze out of a month.
***
Kathy Miller Lampe (North Liberty, IA) No information given.
***
Nathan Miller (Fort Worth, TX) No information given.
***
Nancy Mishler Harrison (Portland, OR) No information given.
***
Julie Nicholls Stephens (Philip, Buckner, MO)
***
Vicki Pegorick Mosby (John, Eugene, OR; e-mail: mosby-vj@efn.org)
I’ve been living in Eugene for 21 years. First fell in love with beauty of Pacific
Northwest when traveling one summer with Vicki Durian – I’m grateful for those
memories. I’m presently doing psychiatric nursing at a chemical dependency treatment
facility. I’m really feeling challenged lately by the health care cutbacks and the
recent high volume of heroin patients. I feel privileged to be working part-time and enjoy
time for other activities -- like gardening, kid/school-stuff, and therapy! John also
migrated to Eugene 21 years ago from St. Louis. We have a 16 year old daughter, Lily and
11 year old son, Tyler. John teaches special-ed and loves guitar picking when able.
Lily’s a sophomore at International High School, studying Japanese and plays violin
in school and jr. orchestra. She’s doing well -- no recent body piercing. And
Tyler’s a total sports nut. We all enjoy retreats to the mountains and the ocean as
often as possible, and look forward to seeing family & friends this summer.
***
Larry Pence (Hiawatha, IA) No information given.
***
Keith C. Penningroth (July 26, 1954 - June 17, 1973)
***
Randy Porter (Karen, Omaha, NE)
Look forward to seeing everyone. We have a beautiful 21 month old daughter. She is
wonderful.
***
Dennis Potsander (Rachel, Fort Madison, IA) No information given.
***
Jeff Putnam (Oakville, IA) No information given.
***
Chuck Raymond (Judi, Muscatine, IA)
I am still married to my beautiful wife Judi. We have a son Michael who is 12. I am still
working for Hon Industries, I’ve been there for 20 years. We are involved with
horses, I’m still shoeing horses around the country part-time. I’m involved with
a Boy Scout Troop in Muscatine which takes alot of Michael’s and my time. He is a
great kid which takes most of my spare time with school and sports. Other than that, life
is good today. Look forward to seeing all of my old classmates. (!!Hey wait a minute Chuck
-- how about "former" classmates rather than "old"!!)
***
Douglas M. Reif (Deborah, Bridgeport, West Virginia; e-mail:
d.reif@westvirginia.com)
Dear Mid-Prairie Class of 72: Most likely I will be unable to attend the 25th reunion
(that can’t be right). I will say a prayer for all attendees safe travel and look
forward to hearing about everyone through the directory. This is turning out to be a very
memorable year. I have been employed by Alamco, Inc. and living in Bridgeport, West
Virginia going on four years. On May 27 Alamco announced sale of the company, pending
shareholder approval, and closure of the local office. Employment status and location are
"to be determined -- sometime". Prior to this, on May 18 at a soccer tournament,
Brant’s team won the U-19 age division and Lance broke his leg playing in the U-14
division. May 30 Brant graduated from Bridgeport High School and will attend Miami
University in Oxford, Ohio this fall. June 26 Deb and I celebrate our 21st year together.
Then August 29 Vanessa turns sweet 16 and will be asking for my car keys. Two significant
events have occurred since our move to West Virginia. The first was a medical emergency
for me when a lengthy battle with ulcerative colitus culminated in surgery to remove my
colon. Fortunately this is an organ you can live without and with the aid of modern
medicine you can, and I have, return to a normal lifestyle. The second involved Deb and I
who helped initiate a girls soccer program at Bridgeport High School with Deb as the
inaugural coach. Greetings to everyone.
***
Nancy Romine (Coralville, IA) No information given.
***
Warren Ropp (Denise, Kalona, IA 52247-0529; 319-656-3318). Working
at family owned John Deere dealerships (Kalona/ West Liberty) with my two older brothers.
Married Denise Eyestone in August of 1974. We have two children Heather (19) and Heath
(16). Currently serving as President of the M-P Athletic Boosters. Tractor pulled on Grand
National level for 15 years. Just this year I took up a new sport, driving Legend Cars.
***
Andy Rowe (Marengo, IA)
Graduated from ISU in 1976. Have taught Agricultural Education/FFA at Iowa Valley
Community School, Marengo the past 21 years. My wife (Julie) died in December after a four
year fight with cancer. Married nearly 20 years. Two children: Adam (14) and Amy (10).
Bought the family Century Farm in April of 1996.
***
Larry Sabin (Vicki, Waterloo, IA)
For about three years I was in the Army and got married. Had two kids. One boy and one
girl. Worked construction for a long time until I got hurt. I’m single now. My
daughter is 24 years old and my son is 20. My daughter has two children: one girl 3 years
and a boy one. My son is in the Navy and has a boy which will be one around Thanksgiving.
I raised my son for 15 years by myself. Now they are gone and now I’m finally
remarrying. I get married June 7th, 1997. I work for Dick Witham Ford & VW. Been with
them for 4 years and out of 28 sales people, I’m the third top salesman. Also, since
I have been with them I’ve bought my own house and finally have great credit. I
don’t have to worry about money or anything. So in June I finally start my life over
with someone.
***
Robert Sattler (Atlanta, GA ; e-mail: rsatt1212@aol.com).
I attended the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where I received a Bachelor of Music
Degree in Accordion Performance. In 1976 I was the United States Accordion Champion and
represented this country in the World Cup where I was a bronze medalist. After living in
New York for a little more than a year, I moved to Cincinnati, OH where I went to work for
Faroy Sales, a wholesale giftware company. After eighteen months, I was transferred to
Atlanta, GA where I now reside. After moving here and continuing to work for the same
company, I became first a regional sales manager and then the national sales manager for
the company. In 1986, I left that firm and started my own business. R Sattler Associates
began as a sales firm and currently I am also acting as an importer and distributor as
well. The main focus of my business is Christmas and Holiday products that I sell at the
wholesale level. In 1990, I began to make frequent trips to Russia to further my studies
on the accordion. I speak the Russian language and now feel quite comfortable there. To
see the changes occur over the last seven years has been truly amazing. In addition to my
music I am also doing business in Russia as well (I import a line of glass Christmas tree
ornaments). In 1996, I made my debut on the Russian concert stage as a soloist with a 100+
piece professional orchestra in Tchaikovsky Hall, Moscow. I also recorded my first compact
disc in the same year.
***
Deanna Schillig (Cedar Rapids, IA) No information given.
***
Matt Schillig (Dresden, KS) No information given.
***
Sandi Schroeder Hotchkiss (Jim, West Chester, IA)
After graduation I attended the University of Iowa College of Nursing and received my BSN
in 1976. I started working at Washington County Hospital and am still employed there. I
have worked most in obstetrics, but 2 years ago I took over management of all inpatient
services for nursing. Jim & I were married in 1973. He manages a feed warehouse for
Ringger Feeds in Washington. We are parents of 4 children: Jennifer, 19 who will be a
sophomore in Ag Transfer at Blackhawk East in Kewanee, Illinois, Jessica 17, Jake 16,
& Jillian 8 -- all attending Washington Community Schools. We live in rural West
Chester - across the fields from Jane & Judy’s parents.
***
Nancy Shaver Wasson (Kim, Kinross, IA ; e-mail:
nancy.wasson@mercyic.com)
I have spent the last 25 years watching my three children grow into beautiful, kind,
responsible adults. Toni is 24 and graduated from William Penn College in 1995; Derek is
21 and is working full time, and Brandy is 19 and is working full time. They are all out
on their own and doing well! So, to all my classmates who thought I would never succeed at
anything -- BITE ME!!! Seriously though, Kim and I are still married, still living in
Kinross, and I’m still working at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City. On March 13, 1997 we
were blessed with our first grandchild. Her name is Kennady Jordan and she is the most
beautiful baby I have seen since my own children were babies! (Does that sound like a
proud grandma or what?!) I hope we have a real good turnout for our 25th reunion. There
are a few people I haven’t seen in 15 or so years, and would like to hear what they
have been up to. (Nathan, if you come to the reunion, bring money!)
***
Marnetta Shetler Bradford (Jerry, Shavertown, PA ; e-mail:
marnettab@aol.com)
I am currently completing a family nurse practitioner program at College Misericordia,
Dallas, PA. Graduation is May 17, 1997. I will be working with a family practice physician
in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Prior to returning to school, I worked as patient care coordinator
with Hospice St. John, Wilkes-Barre, PA. I received a masters in Community Health Nursing
from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio in 1994. My husband Jerry is Assistant Math
Professor at College Misericordia. Two children -- Brendan 9 and Brittany 7. I am active
with a local Quaker meeting and a small group - "Women for Guatemala". In the
1980s, I worked for almost two years in Colorado, worked with Mennonite Central Committee
as a volunteer in Brazil (2 1/2 years), ElSalvado (1 1/2 years). Worked at University of
Iowa Hospital and at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City. Moved to Dayton, Ohio in 1990 (husband
had a job at Wright State University). Moved to NE Pennsylvania in Fall 1994 (husband had
a job at College Misericordia).
***
Sue Skola Delmark (Bob, Argyle, TX ; e-mail: sue@dsa.unt.edu)
I’ve been in Texas since I graduated from college. Married in 1992 to Bob Delmark,
purchased nice house on 1 acre lot with 100 trees and swimming pool. Worked at University
of North Texas Recreation Sports since 1978, was promoted to Director in 1993. Stepson -
Trey is 24, graduated recently from University of North Texas. Bob is General Sales Manger
for Huffines Chevrolet & Suburu in Lewisville, TX. Can’t wait to see everyone
again & is great to have a chance to travel to Iowa as well since mom still lives in
Kalona.
***
Dan Spreacker (Jane, Sioux Falls, SD)
Still working for IMT Insurance Marketing Department. Married with children! Two
step-daughters: Katie 13 and Mary 10.
***
Neil Strabala (Hills, IA)
I’ve been working at the UIHC in Iowa City for the last 17 years in the Grounds
Maintenance Department. I’m a member of the Hills Fire Department. I’ve been on
the department for 15 years.
***
Kerry Stransky (Dalton, MA) No information given.
***
Peggy Stumpf Hammes (Gerald, Sigourney, IA)
I married Gerald Hammes in 1975. We have two children: Greg, age 19 and Penny, age 17. I
have worked at Louis Rich in Sigourney for thirteen years. Though the last five years my
job has been the Dry Storage organizer for both shifts at the plant. Gerald is a farmer,
which we raise cattle, hogs, and also grain farms. He likes to watch drag racing and the
kid’s sports. Greg has completed his Freshman year of college at Waldorf, in Forest
City. His senior year was one of our memorable years. They were 2-A State Football Champs,
which Greg played spin back to lead them to champs. He was also runner-up in the State
Wrestling Tournament at 171 lbs. I learned a lot about wrestling in the past 25 years --
one of my favorite sports. Penny is a junior in high school. She had an exciting year in
basketball. They were District Champs and only one game away from playing Mid-Prairie in
the tournament. Softball season will be starting soon. She plays short stop. We are
getting a new coach from Mid-Prairie, so it should be an interesting season. Softball is
my favorite girls sport. I like watching my children play sports and I like to jog in my
spare time. I do volunteer work for Sigourney Pride our athletic booster club. I’ve
been helping with the Louis Rich Classic Run, on the 4th of July, for the past twelve
years. I’m most definitely an Iowa girl and I’m sure that is where I’m
going to stay! Take care Class of ‘72.
***
Ervin Swantz (Cindy, Excello, MO)
Three children: Melissa (13), Nicholas (9) and Jennifer (6).
***
Cindy Swartzendruber Gingerich (Don, Kalona, IA).
Two children: Jeff (15) and Jennifer (13).
***
Patty Swartzendruber (Iowa City, IA)
I’m a truck driver, been doing that for about 10 years. Still single but have a
boyfriend. I have one son, Shannon Lamont Swartzendruber and he is 14.
***
Joe Swartzentruber (Deb, Kalona, IA)
After high school I went to Kirkwood in the auto collision program. Married Deb Stoltzfus
April 22, 1978. In 1984 we purchased the Gambles Hardware store and ran it till 1994. I am
currently employed at Gingerich Well as Shop Manager. We have a son Andy who is 16 and
goes to Iowa Mennonite School.
***
Craig Tadlock (Simone L. Hughes, Kearney, NE; e-mail:
simone@woody.lopernet.net)
Devin is 21 and in Storm Lake, Iowa; Seth is 19 and in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Brenna is 16
and is in Washington, Iowa; Lisa is 29 and grandson Thomas (age 5) live in Shreveport, LA.
Self-employed for 25 years, continue to work as a truck driver leased to Iowa City. Moved
to Nebraska two years ago with my wife Simone.
***
Dave TeBockhorst (Lori, Kalona, IA) No information given.
***
Steve Thomas (Rhonda, Muscatine, IA) No information given.
***
Marcy Ulin DeFrance (Hank, Iowa City, IA)
Dear Classmates: I’ve been putting off writing this letter simply because of my
family’s busy schedule this summer, seems my children are in every possible activity
there is. I guess we’re suppose to give a brief summary of what we’ve been up to
these past 25 years. After my first marriage ended I moved to Iowa City where I have been
the past 17 years or so. I married again in the Summer of 1983 and now have a total of
five children. Jason, my oldest, has been married for two years this summer and is
expecting his first child in August. My first grandchild, so exciting! He lives in Kalona.
Stacy is 22 and is marrying in July. He will also live in Kalona for now but I look for
them to be moving closer to where his wife is employed which is the Sigourney School
District. My oldest daughter Lindsey, she will turn 13 in October and will start Jr. High
this fall. Alex is 11 and will be a 5th grader this fall, and Keri my baby will be 9 in
July and start 3rd grade in August. They keep me very busy, they are in alot of extra
activities and it seems all my husband and I do is run a personal cab service. After
graduation I worked at Oral-B in Iowa City for 16 years. Then after a day care crisis, I
quit my job and started my own business which has worked well for my family. I do day care
in my home for teachers of the Iowa City School District. This has worked well for me, I
have winter break free, and spring break and summer to spend with my own children. I have
done this for 9 years. Sorry my response is so late but I was wondering if I was even
going to be able to attend the reunion. My oldest daughter is on a recreation league
softball team and three ASA teams which has managed to take up almost every weekend this
summer.
***
Sandie Wade Augustine (Mike, Cedar Rapids, IA)
Right after high school I left small town Wellman for the "Big City" of Cedar
Rapids. I attended Cosmetology school for 1 year, passed the state board then on to the
work force. After about 18 months I decided that this was not the kind of work I wanted to
spend the rest of my life doing. Oh--forgot that I was married in June of '74 to Mike
Augustine, he wasn’t independently wealthy so I needed another job. I tried my hand
at waitressing until our oldest son Eric was born in January of 1977. I was a stay at home
mom until our next son Tim, born in August of 1979, was about 4 months old. At that time I
went to work for Armstrong’s doing numerous jobs. In 1989 I went to work for a German
owned company, Rud Chain, Inc. Our daughter Kaitlyn was born in June of 1990 on our 16th
anniversary. In October of 1994 I started my employment with 360¼ Communications and am
currently part of the accounts receivable management team. I survived my depression of
sending Eric to college & Kaitlyn to kindergarten in the same week. I’m still in
Cedar Rapids but it seems a long way from where I started out 25 years ago.
***
John F. Woodin (Nancy, Dubuque, IA; e-mail: jwoodin@mwci.net)
Since 1972, I have been through college (Drake, Bachelor’s of Music Education 1976),
13 years of music teacher in Mid-Prairie High School, one year at MPHS as Interim
Principal, more college (University of Iowa, Master’s in School Administration,
1990), and five years as Administrative Fine Arts Coordinator for the Dubuque Schools. My
wife is a published composer, piano teacher, and mom to our 2 sons Rob (17) and Mike (13).
Both boys play trumpet in their school bands and played leads in their school musicals.
Sorry I won’t be with you folks this time. I’m spending this summer playing
Daddy Warbucks (shaved head and all) in a semi-professional production of Annie. Come see
Annie in Dubuque this summer! See ya in 2002 when my hair grows back!
***
Joan Yeggy Sojka (John, Fairfield, IA) No information given.
***
Jane Yoder Coufal (Cedar Rapids, IA)
Hello to everyone at the class reunion .... Well, I am still plugging away at the Country
Club in Cedar Rapids. I work lots of hours during the summer months (sometimes 60 a week).
I feel really bad that I couldn’t come, but I have a wedding at the Club tonite. I am
Assistant Manager and plan all the social events at the club. It’s fun and
challenging and I get to see how the rest of the world lives (and spends their money). My
oldest son, Dusty, will be a senior this year at Madison, Wisconsin. He is wrestling and
should make the paper and have a better year this year. He was on varsity the last two
years, but it’s so tough with Iowa in the top ten. He went to the Big Tens and got
beat out and that was it for this year. My baby, Austin, is now 18 and is a senior at
Cedar Rapids Prairie. I am so looking forward to the football games and wrestling for him
this year. We had fun last year and I will get to all of them, just because this is the
last year to go to his events at school. He is busy with summer school and going to the
beach everyday (it must be rough). Oh well, he is my baby. My house and garden keep me
busy. I walk just about every night (you know you must keep in shape). So between work and
the boys, that keeps me busy. I hope everyone is Okay and that I can get to see some of
you in the near future. Bye for now.
***
Linda Yoder Loftis (Mike, Shelby, NC)
I work at Hamrick Ind as a lab supervisor. I’ve worked there for the past 14 years. I
remarried in July of 1995 after being single for seven years. I enjoyed our reunion in
1992, but have already made plans for several trips this year, so plan not to attend at
this time. Hope to be there for the next one!
***
Chris Yotty Brenneman (Richard, Kalona; e-mail:
christina-brenneman@uiowa.edu)
After being pregnant at our 15th & 20th class reunions -- I can guarantee everyone
that I am not -- and will not -- be pregnant for the 25th. Been married to Rich since June
of 1974. Four children: Nicholas (15) will be a sophomore this year, Amanda (13) is going
into 8th grade, Tyler (9) will be in 4th grade, and the caboose Patrick will be 5 in
September and is going to start preschool in the fall. I am still at the University of
Iowa working 4 days per week. I have every Wednesday off and that gives me time to get
caught up at home or run kids to dr. & dentist appointments. We spend our free time
attending our kid’s activities and like to take drives to Kent Park or Lake Darling
and walk the trails. If all works as planned we are taking a family vacation to Orlando in
October. (I’ll tell Mickey Hi from the M-P Class of 72.) I’ve enjoyed working
with Ann, Judy, Dwight & Warren on planning the reunion and thank all of our
classmates who took the time to update us on their lives and only wish the others would
have taken 10 minutes of their time and 32 cents to get in touch with us. For those of us
that are here at the Amanas, may we enjoy the evening as we recall our times together at
Mid-Prairie High School.
P.S. Michial Hartley -- you are toooo coooool for me!!! Are you really the same kid that
used to have daily injuries on the Kalona Elem playground and the one that constantly had
your glasses held together with masking tape?!? I’ve enjoyed our chats on the phone
that we’ve had trying to locate the missing video tape of the 20th reunion and I hope
to see you before 2002. (Debbie, you have done wonders with this guy -- good job.)
***
Cam Zehr (Carma, Washington, IA)
Children: Caitlyn 10 & Courtney 9. The last 25 years of my life should be easy to
document on paper, but having Advanced Alzhiemer’s I can’t remember past
yesterday. But I think I spent the first 15 years doing what every normal, single young
man does best: partying, traveling, partying, more partying, etc. I am an Industrial
Electrician working in Cedar Rapids, my wife is an ICU Nurse at Mercy Hospital in Iowa
City. So the last 10 years I have been enjoying the married life, raising kids and
learning to cook.
***
