Under the Water Tower Lovilia News

This building sat on the west side of Main Street (E Avenue north) corner with 17th street.  The most recent owners were Ken and Brenda Chilton. It was set up for Ken to repair motorcycles but has been in disuse for quite some time.  The second floor windows were missing and the bricks were no longer held by mortar but by habit.  The city deemed the building unfit and a safety hazard and sought out grant money to demolish it.  Dean Lathrop’s company got the bid and had the building down just a few short days before the Sept. 10th Lovilia Fall Festival.  They hauled away all the debris, filled in the basement, smoothed the lot and planted grass which is now up and looks like a well started lawn.

The Bremen to Lovilia 125 years history book written by Eleanora Sofranko and Catherine Ross gives us the history of the building.  Check it out yourself on page 33, 35 , and 36.  John J. Carr farmed in Guilford Township of Monroe County, Iowa ( the Hiteman  and Georgetown area).  A crippling hip injury pushed him to find a new career.  John entered school, Highland Park College of Pharmacy, and graduated in 1899. After graduating, he came to Lovilia and worked at a drug store where the current Lovilia post office stands.  Then he left his boss, Ivor Williams, and bought out the drugstore across the street owned by Charlie Bissell.

In 1902 he moved the Bissell building to the area north of the fire station on the north side of 17th street.  Then he proceeded to build the two story brick building which was just torn down as stated above.  In the history book is a picture of the store as it appeared in 1903.

What was on the second floor?  At the beginning of the movie theater business, a man named Carl Parker arrived in Lovilia from Wisconsin.  It was 1914 and he named the theater above the drug store His Happy Hour theater. Movies were shown two nights per week. Parker made extra earnings by showing his movies at the Rex 5 and Maple mining camps on other nights of the week.  Ken Hetherington loaded the hand operated projector with  reel 1.  When it was time to change reels, men and boys went out side for a smoke.  A player piano accompanied the silent movies.  Movie goers climbed the outside iron stairway to enter the theater.

Page 132 shows a photo of a Halloween Costume Party held above Carr’s drug.  The upstairs was also called Carr’s Opera House. Lovilia band played there and dances and plays were held there.

Carr was joined by a jeweler in his building. He worked with five different ones.  The last one named Kennedy joined Carr and moved their business to the current bank building in 1939.  Mr. Carr died in 1941.

He was the father of Joe Carr, Geraldine Carr Crumley, and Catherine Carr Ross.

A bit of history ends.

Pete Souply House Torn Down

This old house on back street (F avenue south) had been recently only used for storage by the owner, Bob Thomas, who lives next door.  He then built a new two door garage on the adjacent lot.

September 10, Lovilia Fall Festival

Celebration went off without a hitch.  Nice number of entries in the 1pm parade. Car show had eight entries and viewers picked their favorite for  a people’s choice award.  Bill and Connie Barnes donated the choice award plaque.

The bags tournament  drew seventeen teams to compete. The winning team took home 1/2 the entry money.

There were also kid games, vendors, food served at the community building, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and firemen waterfights.

Stage entertainment had toes tapping from 2pm -8:30pm on the stage in front of the community building.  One hundred T-shirts were sold this year  and those worn as well as the design from last year showed Lovilia pride.

The date is the same as the Iowa/Iowa football game.  The committee decided after evaluating the festival we would change the date for the fall festival next year to Sept. 30, 2017 to avoid this conflict.  Hope to see you all there!  Thanks to all who came to celebrate Lovilia roots.

Darwin “Peanuts” Gordon Dies

Darwin, age 91, died Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2016 at Westridge Care center in Knoxville.  He was born in Pershing, Iowa to Edward and Ruth(Zimmerman) Gordon on October 21, 1924.

Darwin was married to Bonnie L. Potts on January 16, 1949 in Albia, Iowa. They were blessed with four children:  Dianne, Rick, Pam, and Ardie.

He was a veteran of World War II where he received seven medals including the Purple Heart.  His jobs included running Lovilia Dairy Creme, a Skelly Gas Station, co-owned White Oak Coal Mine, and selling cars. He once did a trade involving a monkey.

His church membership was with Community Baptist Church in Bussey.   Darwin was a Mason and an American Legion member.  In his younger days he liked hunting trips to Wyoming, pheasant hunting, and fishing.  He especially enjoyed time with the children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife; daughter, Dianne Cardenzana of Olathe, Kansas; son,Rick Gordon of Knoxville, Iowa;daughter, Pam (Mark) Kurimski of Lovilia; and son, Ardie (Lynn) Gordon of Waterloo, Iowa. Also, ten grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.  One brother, Gerald Gordon of Farmington, NM; sister-in-law, Mary Gordon of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law, Mark Walker of Norwalk; and many friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents and siblings: Ruth Lucas, Eddy Gordon, Dr. Marvin Gordon, David Gordon, and Beverly Walker.

Funeral services were held Sept. 17, 2016 at the Community Baptist Church in Bussey.  Burial with military rites by the American Legion of Albia, Lovilia, and Melrose at Woodlawn cemetery of Loviia followed.  Memorials may be made to Welcome Home Soldier Monument or Lovilia Community Betterment. May he rest in peace.

Wilma Etcher Dies

Wilma, age 91, of rural Lovilia, died Sept. 18, 2016 at Vista Woods Care Center in Ottumwa, Iowa.

She was born May 4, 1925 in Ottumwa to Arthur and Abbie (Goff) Peterson.  Wilma received her education at Eddyville, Iowa and graduated with the class of 1942.  March 7, 1943 she married Albert Guy Etcher.  They shared 57 years of marriage.  They were blessed with six children:  Don, Dale, Jerilyn, Mary, Carol, and Jean.

Wilma was a member of the Independent Bible Church in Bussey and helped the Ladies Aid Group.  She was a talented seamstress  which included making: over 300 quilts, 150 dresses for Africa, and in one winter she made 50 afghans.  Wilma also enjoyed time with family, reading, and scrapbooking.

She is survived by her children:  Don(Barbara)Etcher of Lovilia; Dale (Jeanne) Etcher of Indianola, Iowa; Jerilyn Hall of Ottumwa, Iowa;Mary (Don)Hines of Montezuma, Iowa; Carol (Ray) Ryon of Ottumwa, Iowa; and Jean (Tim)Mercer of Fairfield, Iowa. She also leaves 25 grandchildren, 52 great grandchildren, and 19 great great grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her husband; a grandson, Jeff Ballard; a brother, Maurice Peterson, and two son-in-laws, Kenny Chidester and Tom Hall.

Funeral services were held Sept. 21, 2016 at Independent Bible Church in Bussey, Iowa.  Burial was at Woodlawn Cemetery in Lovilia.  Memorials may be made to Independent Bible Church in Bussey, Iowa or Christianburg United Methodist Church. May she rest in peace.

Richard ” Rick” Lee Franzen Dies

Rick, age 63, of Lovilia, died on September 22, 2016 at his home in Lovilia.  He was born on November 13, 1952 in Albia, Iowa to Harold and Madelon (Gladson) Franzen.

He graduated from Albia High School with the class of 1970.  Rick married Mary Louise Campbell and they were blessed with two daughters, Victoria and Angela. Rick and Mary later divorced.

Rick was a truck driver and drove for DJ Franzen trucking until his retirement in 2005.

He was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic church, Lovilia. He enjoyed cars, golfing, trips to Florida, and time spent with family.

Rick is survived by his daughter, Victoria (Aron)Elder of Runnells, Iowa; daughter, Angela Gilson of Altoona, Iowa; grandson, Tyler Elder; grandson, Trevor Elder; granddaughter, Ela Gilson; granddaughter, Mya Gilson; brother, Denny (Linda)Franzen of Altoona, Iowa;  sister-in-law, Nancy Franzen; significant other, Doris Little; and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Hal Franzen; and his ex wife.

A celebration of life mass was held Sept. 26, 2016 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Lovilia.  Memorials may be directed to the Lovilia Community Building.  Burial of cremains will be a family service at a later date.  May he rest in peace.

Oct. 9, 2016, Sunday,  St.Peter’s Catholic Church Picnic

Mass is 10:30am followed by dinner 11am-1pm. There will be a country store and auction too. Everyone is welcome to come and join in.

 

 

 

Mike, age 58, a lifetime resident of Lovilia, died August 16, 2016 in Lovilia. He was born on October 10, 1957 in Grinnell, Iowa to George and Bonnie (Gilliland) Gilbert.

Mike was a graduate of Albia Community High School, class of 1976.  His enjoyments were rock hunting, NASCAR races, The Ellen Show, spending time with Landon, family, friends, and riding the golf cart with the grandkids.

He is survived by his children:  Gabe (Tiffany) Gilbert of Knoxville, Shanna Gilbert and Nick Floden of Leighton, Heather Pettyjohn of Lovilia, Tatum Gilbert of Lovilia, and Landon Main of Albia.  Also surviving are his mother, Bonnie Gilbert of Lovilia; brother, Pat (Teresa) Gilbert of Lovilia; and sister Angie (Mitch) McCombs of Des Moines.  Mike also has nine grandchildren:  Brayden, Bella, Chase, Gunner, Fisher, Tucker, Mackynzie, Carter, and Kelby.  He also leaves a special family friend, Darcy McCombs of Hamilton.

He was preceded in death by his father, George Gilbert.

Interment was at Woodlawn cemetery in Lovilia, Iowa.  May he rest in peace.

Leon Russell Chamberlain Has Died

Leon, age 65, of Lovilia, Iowa died Tuesday, August 30 2016 at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.  Leon was born October 3, 1950 in Knoxville, Iowa to Guy and Mary (Ballalatak) Chamberlain.

He graduated from Albia Community High School. Leon has enlistments in both the US Army and the US Navy.

On February 20, 1971 he married Sandra Lee Ryan at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Lovilia.  They were blessed with two sons:  Russ and Tom.  Sandra died on March 11, 2014.

Leon worked in maintenance at the Veterans Hospital in Knoxville until retirement.

Surviving are his son, Russ, (Dee) Chamberlain of Lovilia; son, Tom (Carol) Chamberlain of Lovilia and his grandchildren:  Garrett Chidester, Devin Chamberlain, Kody Chamberlain, Alex Bonnett, Josey Chamberlain, Cole Chamberlain, Jennifer (Aaron) West, and Kallie (Richie) James.  He also has six great grandchildren.  Two brothers of Lovilia also survive:  Gerald and Doyle.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30a.m., Friday, September 2, 2016 at the Sinnott Funeral Home, Gilbert Chapel in Lovilia with Rev. Raymond Doser officiating.  Burial with military rites conducted by the American Legion of Lovilia, Albia, and Melrose will follow services at Osborn Cemetery near Lovilia.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 1, 2016 opening to the public at 1:00p.m. and family will be present from 6-8 p.m., Thursday evening at the Sinnott Funeral Home, Gilbert Chapel in Lovilia.

Memorials may be directed to the Osborn Cemetery.  May he rest in peace.

Lovilia Fall Festival Saturday, September 10th

Here is the schedule in a nutshell:

Food served from the Community Building beginning at 11am and going to 7pm.  Plus 4-H club will be selling yummy servings of desserts and Rob Wallace will have his kettle corn again.

Vendors mini mall from noon-6pm . From jewelry to airbrush tattoos. Check it out.

Parade lineup 12:30pm at the Catholic Church and parade start will be 1 p.m. Line up and watch from the church all the way to the post office.  Floats, cars, tractors, golf carts, and horses. Something for everyone.  If you have not entered the parade yet, call Ryan Shaw 641-891-7162 or Jessica Mansur 641-218-0156.

Firemen’s water fights are planned to start after the parade about 2p.m.  Come watch the teams battle it out.

Kids games will be available from 2 p.m. through 6 p.m.  Lots of games and lots of prizes.

Car show immediately after the parade on E Ave. (main street). Admirers and gawkers can vote on the vehicle they like best. The one with the most votes gets a nice “People’s Choice” plaque.

Stage entertainment will be from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m.. Yes, that is right.  Eight hours of free music, courtesy of the festival committee and donors. It will be a country, rock, toe tapping extravaganza.  Bring your lawn chairs and listen at the stage in front of the community building or sit on the bleachers there.  Leading off the day will be Mary and Nick, then Sylvia Bain, Blue Grass Blondies, and Hunter McAninch.  Then at 7 p.m. Hunter will join the Coal Mule band and play till we finish at 10 p.m. Coal Mule band is Paul Fey on bass, Bobby Morney on drums, John Bain on lead guitar, and Paul Hatfield on rhythm guitar. And they all join in on vocals.  Also, between performances, raffle prizes will be drawn.  So don’t miss the great music and chance to win prizes.

Bag tournament at 4 p.m. for those who want to test their skill.  Team entry fee is $10, single elimination, and the winning team gets 1/2 of the proceeds.  To sign up be at the grassy lot beside the bank at 3:30pm or call or text Shane Nichols 641-660-1756 or Jessica Nichols 641-295-1786.

Be there Sept.10th. Be there or be square.

St. Peter’s Annual Picnic October 9th, Sunday

10:30mass and lunch served from 11a.m.-1p.m. Beef with homemade noodles or ham and real mashed potatoes, cole slaw, rolls, green beans, desserts, and beverages.

After your meal shop at the country store, buy a raffle ticket(all prizes are cash), and get a seat for the auction. Come join in the fun!

Clean up day for the kid’s park (playground) will be Thursday, August 25 at 6 p.m.

City wide cleanup day will be August 27, Saturday, from 9 a.m.- Noon.

Come help us  beautify Lovilia. All help is appreciated. If you have a question, call 891-7873.

This work will have Lovilia spruced up and ready to entertain our guests at our Lovilia Fall Festival which is Sept. 10th, Saturday. Mark your calendars !!!!

LOVILIA 2016 FALL FESSTIVAL ORDER FORM

 

Please click on the Lovilia 2016 link beside the logo and see the order form which you can print and fill out your order and turn it in to Sara Wynn or Sadie Dykstra. orders will be available Sept. 2nd from 4-7 at 1002 South E Ave. at Sara Wynn’s home. Sadie and Sara’s phone number and email is on the order form. payment must be turned in with the order form. ORDER DEADLINE AUGUST 15TH MONDAY AT 5PM

Nadine died May 26, 2016.  She was  born on April 1, 1930 to Oakley and Violet (Beranak) Payne in Washington, Iowa.  She and Jack D. Harris were married June 20, 1953.  They had five children:  Tony, David, Brian, Greg, and Elizabeth.  The family lived in Monroe County.

Nadine gave piano lessons and played at church services in Lovilia, Bussey, Omaha, NE, and at Albia Baptist Temple.  In addition she played for weddings, funerals, and as accompanist for many students in band contests.

She is survived by children:   Tony (Kathy) Harris of Arkansas City, KS; David Harris of Lakewood, CO; Brian (Mindy) Harris of Albia, IA; Greg Harris of Kansas City, KS; and Elizabeth (Robert) Kusterer of St. Louis, MO.  Also, she leaves many grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and two step great grandchildren

Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, one daughter in law, and one grandson.

A memorial service was held June 11, 2016 at Albia Baptist Temple.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the Albia Baptist Temple in  her honor.  (FYI no burial information in the obit)

 

Virginia R. Weldon dies

Virginia R. Weldon passed away at her Lovilia home on June 8, 2016.  She had battled cancer for six years. Her birthplace was Ottumwa, Iowa and her parents were Arthur and Evelyn (Zumalt) McMillen.  Her date of birth was January 4, 1941.

She was a graduate of Albia High School.  Virginia married Danny Weldon in 1957.  They were blessed with three sons.

Virginia is survived by her husband, Danny; son, Jeff (Deanna) Weldon; son, Bryan (Vonda) Weldon; son, Randy(Luann)Weldon; sister, Joyce (Jim) Harrison, sister, Delores Sullivan; brother, Jess (Debbie) McMillen; and many grandchildren and friends.

Preceding her in death were:  her parents, a granddaughter, Ashley; a brother, Tom McMillen; a half-brother, Jack McMillen; and a half-sister, Marilyn Carson.

As per her request, she was cremated and Celebration of Life Services will be Saturday, June 18, 2016 at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Raymond Doser officiating at Sinnott Funeral Home, Gilbert chapel in Lovilia.  Visitation will be held from 10-11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 18, 2016 at the Gilbert Chapel in Lovilia.   In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Lovilia United Methodist Women, Lovilia Community Building, Lovilia Park Commission, or an organization of your choice is suggested. (FYI no burial info. in the obit)

Potato Supper Results

The potato supper held June 8, 2016 was a fundraiser to help pay for the insurance and maintenance of the Lovilia Community building.  Approximately 90 dinners were served which after expenses raised $294.76.  Volunteers felt the low turnout maybe due to so many children and families being away at ballgames and farmers in the field.   They will try to plan another dinner for February 2017 and hope for a bigger turnout.  Thanks to all who did volunteer to work, donate desserts, and come eat.

Lovilia House Demolished

The former Shorty and Irene Goodwin house on back street (F Avenue) was taken down last week due to its falling into poor condition.  The lot has been smoothed and leveled out.  Current owners are Ken and Brenda Chilton.

T-Ball Games in Lovilia

Attendance by parents, grandparents, and Lovilians at Tuesday’s game , June 14th,at the Lovilia ball diamond was good.  The little kids are learning the basics of the game.  They play three innings.  Each batter gets five pitches and if he has not hit the ball, he can then hit the ball off of a t.  It is fun to watch as you have no idea what will happen.  Some batters get a hit without the t, some with the t, and then they go to base with some reminders along the way to keep going and stop on the base.  One player pushed another player and the coach had to prevent a fist fight by picking up the one and holding on to his shoulders to keep him in his fielding position.  One baseman spent the entire inning squatting down and playing with the rocks around the base.  One runner was passed by the next runner who had hit a homer and the first runner just slowly plodded around the bases unconcerned.  But I wish all ballgames were like T-ball.  The coaches were kind and patient.  Parents encouraged but not critical of the players.  Kids played for the sake of playing with no cares of wins or losses.  It is all good.

There are two home games left. Hope you can see one.  Games are on Tuesdays, June 21 and June 28 at 6pm start and are done by 8pm.  The two Lovilia teams both play. Ninjas and Lil Lions.  The concession stand next to the field is open too for hot dogs, nachos, drinks, or candy and run by volunteers.  Play ball!!  It is like watching a living, breathing, Norman Rockwell painting.  It will just make you smile.

Pop Can Collection again July 9

To have cans picked up call Loita Williams from 9am-noon.  Or she can pickup before the 9th if you call her.  Her number is 946-7940.

New Priest to Arrive to Serve at St. Peter’s

The current priest, Father Pat Lumsden, will be retiring from the priesthood on June 30th.  He has served the local parish for several years.  Assigned to take his place is Father Mark Yates who will be arriving July 1 to settle in to the rectory at St. Peter’s Church.

Father Pat plans to move to a condo at North Liberty, Iowa.  Father Mark is moving from St. Joseph, MO to join us here in Lovilia.  He is a Precious Blood congregation priest as is Father Mike of St. Mary’s , Albia.  We wish Father Pat a restful retirement and we welcome Father Mark to our community.

Statistics can be Surprising and Interesting

From the web site of the think tank, Economic Policy Institute, Monroe County is listed as to income from all the counties in the United States.

The county with the residents with the highest income is listed as number one and then down from that.  Monroe county is the 1303 rd down from the top. ( By comparison Jefferson co. (Fairfield, IA) is 128, Polk co.,(Des Moines) is 968.

The average income of the top 1% of residents in Monroe co. is $516,504.  The average income of the bottom 99% of residents is $36,826.  The ratio of the 1% to the 99% is 14/1 times larger income.

You can research this yourself for any state or county. It surprised me that Polk was not the top Iowa county.  Shows we all assume things that the facts do not support.

Lovilia Fall Festival Planning Update

A new t-shirt will be chosen at the July meeting with a new design. The same band will play this September as last year.  This includes Paul Hatfield, John Bain, and Bobby Morney as local musicians.  Other acts will be included and announced here when confirmed.

The parade has been changed from night to day at 1pm.  People liked last year’s night parade but many entrants did not have lights or know how to attach them which made them hard to see.  It was decided to have a day parade this year and then let people tell us which they like best for future festivals.  Ryan Shaw has offered to be parade line up chairman.

Food will be available in the community building from 11am until 6:30pm.  There will be merchandise vendors along main street (E Ave.) near city hall area.  Car show, 4-H bake sale, bags tournament, firemen water fights, and kids games are all planned too.

If you want to send a donation to support the festival, send it to:

Sadie Dykstra, PO Box 142, Lovilia, IA. 50150.

Lovilia Community Building Update

A new water heater has been installed in the kitchen to replace the two small ones installed over 30 years ago when the building was constructed.  It is an electric one and should provide a good supply of hot water when the building is being used.

New water faucets have also been installed in the men’s and woman’s bathrooms to replace the 30+ year old fixtures.

Next meeting will be July 11 at 6:30pm at the community building. If you want to help, come join the meeting. If you have suggestions for what other needs should be fulfilled at the building or in town, let the committee know.  Thank you to the volunteers who hung the flags for Memorial day, flag day, and Fourth of July holidays.  It looks so nice.

 

Martin Cole, age 76, of Albia, died May 6, 2016 at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.

He was born April 16,1940 to James “Clarence” and Dorothy “Nora” Gladson Cole at their home in Lovilia.  After attending Lovilia High School he joined the United States Army and served his country.

December 1981 Martin married Shirley Repp and they shared 31 years before she died in August 2013.

He worked at Maytag his entire working life until retirement.  Martin was a member of the Albia American Legion post, the VFW, and the Masonic Lodge.

He is survived by his two step children, Cyndi Price, and Mike Anderson and three step-grandchildren, Jenny, Jody, and Jesse.

He was proceeded in death by his wife, his parents, and brother, Norman, and a sister, Bonnie.  Funeral services were May 13, 2016 at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia.  Burial will follow services at Oak View Cemetery in Albia with military honors provided by the American Legion of Albia, Melrose, and Lovilia.

May 7 All City Wide Yard Sales

We had eight sales in town and shoppers from other communities.  The rain held off until afternoon.  People enjoyed browsing and we can hopefuly have another good day next year.

Monroe County, Iowa Community Foundation Grand Paves the Way for New Sidewalk

Excuse the play on words for paving and sidewalk but it semed fitting. Lovilia Community Betterment Committee decided this winter there was a need to replace the sidewalk in front of the building.

The sidewalk at the bulding after over 30 years of use has need of being replaced.  Due to winter freezing and thawing there were cracks and heaved areas.  It is necessary to replace it to provide safe entry to and from the building.  It will also make snow removal easier with a smooth surface and prevent water pooling into ice that causes more sidewalk damage and unsafe walking on this ice.  The Community Betterment committee voted unanimously for the project and the city government is supporting it with an in-kind contribution.

The city government agreed to donate the trucking to haul away the old concrete and the contractor stated this has an in-kind donation value of $200.  Community Betterment invested $800 in the project.  The committee requested a grant from the foundation of $1500 to complete the project and the committee received the approval for the grant April 8, 2016.

The goal is for the new sidewalk to provide another 30 years of a safe environment for the community.

The committee requested a project estimate from Romanco Concrete of Pleasantville, Iowa, The estimate included concrete, rebar, skid loader rental, concrete breaker rental, and concrete saw rental. Also labor for the removal of old concrete and for construction of the new sidewalk for 325 square feet of walkway.  The committee unanimously voted to hire Romanco Concrete.  Mike said he could complete the job in May.

Romanco moved in and completed the project over the two days of May 6th and 7th.  All the flaws were corrected and the new walkway is excellent.  Community Betterment board of directors and the committee wish to thank the construction company for their cooperation of project completion in a timely way, the city’s in-kind donation, and the foundation grant to make this improvement possible.  This should serve the community for another 30 years.

Garage Fire

In May a fire broke out in the garage behind the Billy Chance house on south F Avenue.  The garage was burned to the ground and there was some heat damage to the west side of the house.  This is the home years ago that was the Stank and Katie Papich home.

Lovilia has Two T-Ball Teams

Lovilia has two teams called Ninjas and Lions.  Their game schedule follows:

June 2 7pm at Albia.  Lions vs. orange on F4 and Ninjas vs. Purple on F3

June 7 at Lovilia 6pm Ninjas vs. Yellow and 7pm Lions vs Red

June 9 at Albia 7pm Ninjas vs. red and Lions vs. Pink

June 14 at Lovilia at 6pm Lions vs. Navy and 7pm Ninjas vs. Green

June 16 at Blakesburg 6pm Lil Lions vs. Ninjas and 7pm Lil Giants vs. Lions

June 21 at Lovilia at 6pm Lions vs. Blue and 7pm Ninjas vs. Pink

June 23 at Albia 7pm gray vs. Ninjas F4

June 28 at Lovilia 6pm Lil Giants vs. Ninjas and 7pm Lil Lions vs. Lions

These are the beginner teams for boys and girls.   Come on out to the ballpark and cheer them on!

John Wesley Major Dies

John, age 37, of Albia passed away on May 11, 2016 at his mother’s home in Russell, Iowa.

John was born on November 6, 1978 to Gary and Mary Ann Parker Major in Oskaloosa, Iowa.  He started school in Lovilia grade school and completed it at Albia graduating with the class of 1997.  He later attended IHCC for diesel mechanics and received his CDL

John was an over the road trucker and hauled coast to coast for eight years.  His real passion was working on the family farm.  He also helped with his grandparents business, H & R Repair.

He enjoyed the out of doors and riding his motorcycle.

John is survived by his mother Mary Ann (Don) Schramm; his father, Gary (Cathy) Major; three brothers:  Harold (Amy) Major, Ed Major, ad David (Jessica) Major; his grandfather, Harold Parker; and two step brothers: Donald III and Derick Schramm.  Also surviving are nephews, nieces, and friends.

Preceding him in death were Della Ruth Parker and Jim and Ellen Haines, grandparents.

A funeral service was held May 19, 2016 at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia.  A private family burial will be held at a later date.

Judy Simmons Dies

Judy was born on September 24, 1953 in Knoxville, Iowa to Pearl Simmons.  Her full name is Judith Maxine Simmons.  She received her education in Knoxville schools.

She lived most of her life in Lovilia.  She raised three children there:  Chris, Autumn and Fred.  She worked many years at the Dairy Queen and at Pella Corporation in Pella, Iowa.  She retired early in 2000 due to her health.

Judy enjoyed games such as bingo and pitch and bowling.  She also enjoyed traveling with friends.

When her health declined she lived with her daughter Autumn in Knoxville and finally at the West Ridge Nursing & Rehab Center.  Judy died May 20, 2016 at the age of 62.

She is survived by her daughter Autumn Derringer of Knoxville, Fred McCombs and his wife, Amanda, of Albia, Iowa and six grandchildren.  Grandchildren are:  Christopher and Saphyre McCombs, Ashlyn and Shalyn Derringer, AJ and Garrett McCombs and great-granddaughter, Cadence Derringer.  Her mother, Pearl Minard of Knoxville, Iowa survives as well as sister, Sharon(Warner) Keegel of Columbia, Iowa, brother, Rick (Alicia) Minard of Harvey, Iowa and sister, Connie (Bob) Fayette of Hot Springs, South Dakota.

Preceding her in death was her son Chris E. McCombs; her son-in-law, Martin (Marty) Derringer; her sister, Karen Simmons; and a brother, Jack Minard.  Also, her maternal grandparents, Worth and Gladys Simmons and a niece, Casey Reece.

Memorial services were held May 25, 2016 at Williams Funeral Home in Knoxville, Iowa with inurnment at Breckenridge cemetery in Marion County, Iowa.

Beautify Lovilia Day

Lovilia Parks Committee wants to thank all who were able to help with the clean up day on Saturday, May 21st.  Sadie Dykstra said, ” We had about 20 all together and we got a lot done!  I’m so happy to see our town coming together making it a better place!”  Volunteers were:  Sadie Dykstra, Pat Dykstra, Carson Dykstra, Doran Haywood, Janis Aldridge, Katie Williams, Leonard Geery, Sara Wynn, Brian Brown, Rev. Ray Doser, Debbie Brown, Tarin Brown, Loita Williams, Garrett Dykstra, Bill Barnes, Connie Barnes and Don Shelford.

The Lovilia Methodist Church provided food for after the cleanup and some people donated money towards the food and snacks.  Sadie says,”  thanks again to everyone!”

Wedding Anniversary

Pat and Teresa Gilbert just celebrated their 28th Wedding Anniversary.  Best Wishes!!

Mark your Calendar……

June 8, Wednesday, from 5-7pm will be a Super Duper Baked Potato Supper at the Lovilia Community building hosted by the Lovilia Community Betterment Committee.  Proceeds will go to help pay the annual insurance on the building.

Adults meals are $5 and children 10 and under eat for $4 each.

Homemade dessert and beverages go with the potato you stuff yourself with all the trimmings from hamburger and sour cream to chili. Hope to see you there!

POP CAN DRIVE

Another can drive will be July 9th from 9am-noon.  Save up your cans and donate. Funds will support our fall festival in September.  Every nickel deposit helps.  Thanks.

 

May 1, 2016 the graduating high school seniors and confirmation student were honored at mass.  They received gifts from the parish and applause for their achievement.

Confirmation  graduate was Sydney Flattery, daughter of Mark and Jean (Hastings) Flattery.

Three graduating high school senior boys were honored. Marty Beary, son of Gene and Shelley (Geno) Beary ; Cole Kurimski, son of David Kurimski and Tina Kurimski; and Hunter McAninch, son of Kirk and Susan (Wynn) McAninch.  All three plan to attend Indian Hills Community College for two years.  Marty will study agricultural management.  Cole and Hunter will take liberal arts and transfer to ISU in Ames.  There Cole will pursue an architectural degree and Hunter department of natural resources degree. Congratulations and best wishes to you all.

After mass, the parish served breakfast pizza, fruit, graduation cake, and beverages to celebrate.

Lovilia All City Wide Yard Sales Saturday May 7

Most sales will run 8 am-noon.  Two sales are posted at the post office. Three family sale at Mark Hastings on the east side of town and Susan Beary on E Avenue South. There will be more if you cruise through town. This is hosted by Lovilia Community Betterment who pay for advertising and posters.

Visitor

Jan Ryan of Cedar Rapids visited this week with her cousin Pam Owens.  Welcome Jan!

Beautify Lovilia Day Has Been Set for May 21

Lovilia parks committee invites volunteers to help Saturday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Meet at the Fire Station and they will hand out trash bags to all volunteers.  Everyone may help but children under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult.  Volunteers should bring gloves to wear to pick up trash and comfortable walking shoes.  Splashing on some sunscreen will be a good idea too and a hat to keep the sun from your eyes.

This is a great time to clean up winter trash from the parks and roadways.  Thanks to all who step up to help.

Rain day if needed is set for May 28, Sat. 9 a.m. -noon.  Thanks to the parks committee for spearheading this project.

 

 

 

 

Sunday 2-4 p.m. at the Lovilia Community Building Marty’s children hosted a lovely party for Marty. They displayed several of her beautiful hand stitched pieced and quilted by hand quilts.  Marty is stitching on some piece of sewing nearly nonstop if you know her.  She doesn’t wait for anything unless she keeps her hands busy.

Also were family photos, travel photos, and her singing groups pictures displayed to enjoy.  Many Lovilia and out of town guests enjoyed visiting and sharing birthday cake and punch.

Marty has been active in service to her community and church all her life.  She is a golden asset to Lovilia that we appreciate.  Thanks Marty and Happy Birthday!

Benefit for Teresa Conner April30th

Teresa, daughter of Bill and Debbie Conner, is fighting a bout with cancer.  There will be a benefit at the Lovilia Community Building on Saturday the 30th from 2pm start.

It will start with a buffet lunch at 2 p.m. then program followed by live music. Auction too.  All are welcome to stop and support Teresa and her family.

 

The trailer left town to be repaired. It is expected to be back in Lovilia in two weeks or less( that would be about April 28).  If you need to recycle before it returns, you can leave it at the recycling building in Albia.  It is located one block west off  hwy5 when you turn on the street between the AY Mc Donald factory and the new law center.  There are windows to put each category of items in. It is for drop off 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

Just keep checking the Lovilia trailer site and it will be back soon for your recycling use.  Thanks for recycling.

Methodist Noodle Supper Wed. was a Hit.

The community building was well filled with happy local and out of town eaters.  Servers are cheerful and fast and the food is tastey.  Thanks to the ladies and gents of the Lovilia United Methodist Church.

New sidewalk

Plans are moving forward for the new sidewalk at the Lovilia Community building.  We received word this Monday that we received the $1500 grant we applied for to help pay for it.  Contractor, Mike Romanco,  has agreed to remove the old sidewalk and form up and pour the new one.  If all plans go forward with no hiccups we could have it all done before Memorial Day.

 

Funeral services were April 8th at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Knoxville. Burial was at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Lovilia.

Cathy was born October 29, 1941 to Mike and Barbara (Ahn) Gelles.  She was welcomed home by two older brothers and was baptized at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Lovilia.  She was educated in Lovilia schools and graduated with the high school class of 1960.

Her work life included:  Look Magazine in Des Moines, Ia; Griffin Nursing Home in Knoxville, Iowa; and the the VA Medical Center until her retirement.

She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Knoxville, Iowa.

Cathy was a Knoxville Raceway fan and attended races for over 50 years.  She rarely missed a Saturday race and always attended the National races there.  She was a regular visitor to the Nashville country music festival.  Another pastime she enjoyed was going to garage sales, flea markets, and other shopping.

Her son, Todd Michael, and her parents preceded her in death.  Surviving are her two brothers:  Edward Gelles of Knoxville, Iowa and John Gelles of El Cajon, California.

Marlene Papich Terrell left this message:  “So sorry to hear of Catherine’s “Kitty’s”) passing.  Her father had the shoe repair shop across the street from our family Sundry Shop/Drug Store in downtown Lovilia.  We all went to school together!  Lots of memories…..Remembering the family, John and Eddie, in your loss.”

May she rest in peace.

Lois “Maxine” Chance died April 7, 2016

Lois ,age 95, was born October 31, 1920 to Andy and Bertha (Warren) Henderson in Monroe Country.  She was the oldest of six children.  She married Leo Chance December 13, 1939 in Unionville, Missouri.  They were blessed with one daughter, Barbara.

She was a member of the Independent Bible Church of Bussey, Iowa.

Her work years were: the Overall Factory in Knoxville; and Maloney’s Mfg. Company , Albia.   After retirement  she and Leo spent several winters in Arizona which she enjoyed.  When Leo died, she moved to a home in Lovilia and later lived with her daughter.

She was preceded in death by husband Leo, brother Robert, brother Ernest, and sister Evelyn Dunkin.

Maxine is survived by her daughter, Barbara (Don) Etcher of rural Lovilia; four grandchildren:  Scott (Julie) Etcher of rural Lovilia; Sandy (Chris) McFarland of Oklahoma; Steve (Thea) Etcher of Missouri; and Shawn (Heather) Etcher of Virginia; sixteen great grandchildren;  and thirteen great-great grandchildren; and brother Paul (Jean) Henderson of Ottumwa; and Joe (Joan) Henderson of Newton and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral was April 11, 2016 at Independent Bible Church of Bussey.  Burial was at Woodlawn Cemetery in Lovilia.   A memorial has been established to the Independent Bible Church in Bussey, Iowa.

May she rest in peace.