Fall 2019 Courier Obituaries
Obituaries
1938
Arlene Baumhoefener Mineck, 102, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on July 27. Arlene studied fine art at Coe and Iowa State University, where she graduated in 1939. She and her late husband, Bill, managed several grocery stores in Cedar Rapids. When Bill was in the U.S. Army Air Force and stationed in Hawaii, Arlene went to visit him and arrived on December 6, 1941, witnessing the attack on Pearl Harbor the next day. Later in life, Arlene got her teaching certificate and taught art at Polk Elementary in Cedar Rapids for eight years. She took up painting and began to paint professionally after she retired. She had many paintings featured in art shows around Iowa and gained critical commendation from the Iowa Watercolor Society. Arlene was also a member of First Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday school and designed many works of art for the church. Arlene is survived by a son, Steven Mineck; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
1941
Vicki Bauder, 96, the wife of the late Frank Bauder ’41, a former trustee of Coe College, of Fountain Hills, Arizona, on November 15, 2018. She is survived by a daughter, Betty Bauder Crisanti ’74.
Jean Burroughs Branch, 99, of Lombard, Illinois, on July 20. After graduating from Coe, Jean taught for one year, then worked in insurance for 15 years. She then worked as a tax assistant with Redfern, Mason, Dieter, Larsen & Moore for 40 years, retiring in 1998. Jean was a past matron and 50-year member of Order of the Eastern Star and was a past mother advisor of Rainbow for Girls. She was a member of Springville First Presbyterian Church, where she served as choir director, organist, Sunday school teacher and church treasurer. She was also a member of First Presbyterian Church in Cedar Falls, where she was an elder on the Session and sang in the choir. Jean is survived by a daughter, Bonnie Feuerbach King ’66; a son, Bradley Branch; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a nephew; and a niece.
1942
Leota “Becky” Becking Schwenke, 97, of Overland Park, Kansas, on September 1, 2018. Becky played the cello in symphonies in Des Plaines, Illinois, and Pittsburgh, Kansas. She was active in church music programs by playing piano, singing and directing a choir. Becky is survived by two sons, Ed Schwenke ’67 and Bob Schwenke ’72; a daughter, Janet; two grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, John “Dick” Schwenke ’42.
Donald Ross, 98, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on April 24. Donald was in the ROTC at Coe and went into active duty soon after graduation. During his service, he taught at the Quartermaster School and then went to Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where he assisted in planning for the invasion of Japan. He was discharged with the rank of major in April 1946. Donald earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Iowa in 1948 but continued running Ross' Steak House with his family instead of practicing law. When the steak house closed in 1964, he began a successful career in land development and construction in an area called Applewood Mesa in Cedar Rapids. Donald was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, serving as deacon, elder, Sunday school teacher and choir member. Donald was a trustee of Coe College and received the Distinguished Service Award in 2002. Donald is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cornelia Ross; two sons, Bill and John Ross; a daughter, Becky Ross; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a brother, George Ross ’45.
1943
Irma Kubik Dresselhaus, 97, of Davenport, Iowa, on April 19. After graduating from Coe, Irma continued her music studies as a graduate student at the University of Iowa. She then taught music in both the Waterloo and Cedar Rapids school systems for a number of years. She also taught piano in her home for over 60 years. Irma was a member of many organizations including the National Federation of Music Clubs, Mu Phi Epsilon Honorary Music Sorority, Music Students Etude Club, Junior Etude Music Club, Eastern Star, Davenport Area Retired School Personnel Association, the Putnam Museum, Quad-City Plus 60 Club and Varsity Club. She also served as a Sunday school teacher and secretary of program resources for Women’s Society of Christian Service and was an active member of St. John’s United Methodist Church. Irma is survived by a daughter, Ann Dresselhaus; two sons, Paul and John Dresselhaus; two sisters, Ruth Frost and JoAnne Utter; and five grandchildren.
Elaine Schneider McAllister, 97, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, on August 8. Elaine worked in the credit analysis trust department of Harris Trust Bank in Chicago after graduation and later moved to Beloit, Wisconsin, where she lived for many years. She and her late husband, Les McAllister ’42, relocated to Kalamazoo in 1998 to be closer to their daughter. Elaine and Les were passionate about community service and received a Volunteer of the Year award in 2010. Elaine was also a longtime member of the League of Women Voters. She is survived by her daughter, Margaret; and many nieces and nephews.
1944
Priscilla Bolyard, 95, of Metairie, Louisiana, on January 6, 2018. Priscilla earned her master’s degree in social work from Columbia University. She was a social worker for the Orleans Parish School Board for 37 years. She was also an active member of P.E.O. Priscilla is survived by two nephews, Russell and Scottie Bolyard.
1945
Evelyn Heins Cropp, 96, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on August 9. Evelyn worked as a preschool teacher at St. Paul's United Methodist Church for 15 years. She was a member of Creative Artist Guild, Elks Auxiliary and Women's Club and volunteered as the church librarian at Central Park Presbyterian Church. Evelyn is survived by two daughters, Lynn Stamp and Julie Whitlatch; a brother, Marion “Jack” Heins; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Howard Cropp ’51.
Dorris Jefferis Hatt, 95, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on July 12. Dorris spent much of her career assisting with the family business. She is survived by two daughters, Shirley Mitchell and Jan Mersch; a son, Al Hatt; a sister, Janet Tompkins; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was predeceased by her husband, Jack Hatt ’46.
Margaret “Janine” McGill Heisel, 96, of Rockford, Illinois, on August 7. Janine worked at Harris Trust Bank in Chicago before moving abroad to Belgium and England with her family. She was a member of P.E.O. and Kappa Delta sorority. She also served as a deacon and elder at First Presbyterian Church and sang in the choir. Janine is survived by a son, John Heisel ’72; a daughter, Margaret Dawson; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Mary Meacham Cornell, 96, of Spirit Lake, Iowa, on June 5. Mary taught high school English for several years. She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, P.E.O., LBU and DAR/Mayflower Society. She was also a member of Spirit Lake First Presbyterian Church for over 70 years and took part in 10 mission trips over her lifetime. Mary is survived by three daughters, Carolyn Butterworth, Christine Cornell and Cathalee Nielsen; 11 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert Cornell ’43.
1947
Shirley Carver Burrell, 97, of Marion, Iowa, on August 25. Shirley earned her master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado. She and her husband, Glenn, were longtime Linn County farmers, and she worked at her son’s store, Frontier Garden Center. Shirley is survived by two sons, Lynn and Edwin Burrell.
Thelma Dolmage Richardson, 91, of Schenectady, New York, on November 9, 2018. Thelma worked as a registered nurse for 10 years. She served as secretary of the Ups and Downs Bowling League for over 40 years and was an active member of Stanford United Methodist Church. Thelma is survived by her son, Wayne Richardson ’78; three daughters, Janelle Richardson, LeAnne King and Valleen Blanchet; four brothers, Vern, David, Dennis and Richard Dean Dolmage; four sisters, Lillian Tiller, Shelia Varner, Laura Reed and Daisianna Dodds; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
1948
James Cunningham, 92, of Fairfield Glade, Tennessee, on December 21, 2018. Prior to attending Coe, Jim served as a medical corpsman in the U.S. Navy at the end of World War II. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Wayne State University and worked as a credit manager in the Detroit area. He spent most of his career at Hygrade Food Products, where he was director of taxes, assistant treasurer and secretary-treasurer during his 37 years with the company. During that time, he also served as president, international vice president and director of Tax Executives Institute Detroit Chapter and was a member of Financial Executives Institute. Throughout his life, Jim was involved in many community organizations. He was a Boy Scout leader, assistant treasurer in charge of mortgages for Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity and was an AARP-IRS tax preparation volunteer for over 10 years. He was also active in his church as a Presbyterian elder and Stephen minister. Jim is survived by his wife, Rae Hozer; a son, James Derrick Cunningham; a daughter, Kimberley Sigelko; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Mary Ann Day Flood, 93, of Naples, Florida, on September 8. Mary Ann earned her master’s degree in physical therapy from Duke University. She worked as a registered physical therapist for over 45 years, specializing in polio, geriatric and veterans care. She was active in her community as a Cub Scout den mother and a member of Grace Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir. Mary Ann is survived by a daughter, Ann; and a grandchild.
Jean Wohlers Post, 92, of Waterloo, Iowa, on June 13. Jean earned her degree in elementary education from Iowa State Teachers College (University of Northern Iowa) in 1948. She was a teacher at Head Start for over 30 years and served as a substitute teacher at Small World Preschool after retirement. Jean is survived by a son, David Post; two daughters, Melinda Huting and Keely Swope; 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
1949
Eleanor “Christy” Christensen Andres, 92, of Rockford, Illinois, on April 15. Christy taught art classes for 25 years and founded The Studio Artists in 1971. She exhibited her paintings in many art shows and galleries and donated paintings to local charities. She also has paintings in the Coe College alumni art collection. Christy’s watercolor paintings were chosen for MELD Mother’s Day cards, Doors of Rockford and the HC Johnson Press International Winter calendar. In 1986, she painted a mural for Midway Village and Museum. She served as president of the Art Guild of Rockford and the Tamaroa Watercolor Society. She was also a member of the Rockford Art Museum and First Evangelical Covenant Church, where she served on the arts commission. Christy is survived by her husband, Ralph Andres; a son, Wayne Andres; a daughter, Dyanne Willow; a sister, June Lindsten; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Dorothy DeGroot Lindsay, 92, of North Mankato, Minnesota, on August 8. Dorothy worked as a teacher’s aide and substitute teacher for District 77 schools and was an adjunct instructor at Bethany College in Mankato. She also worked for many years at the Minnesota State bookstore. Dorothy was a member of P.E.O., Thursday Reading Club and other clubs in the Mankato area and volunteered her time with MRCI, Meals on Wheels, refugee programs and other organizations. She was also an active member of Centenary United Methodist Church, serving on various boards and women's circles. Dorothy is survived by two sons, Curtis and Craig Lindsay; a daughter, Carol Begley; three grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; three great-grandchildren; five stepgreat-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Kay Henry, 87, the wife of George Henry ’49, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on May 24. Kay graduated from Bucknell University in 1953 with a degree in education and accepted her first teaching position in Oahu, Hawaii. She settled in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area with her first husband, Jim Shive, in 1961. Kay taught reading at the Solon grade school and at an alternative high school in Iowa City and earned her master’s degree from the University of Iowa in the early 1980s. She was an active member of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church and volunteered her time at the Iowa City Public Library; Hancher Auditorium; SEID, a nonprofit offering economic opportunities for disadvantaged women; and was a founding member of the Iowa Women's Foundation. Jim passed away in 1985, and Kay later married George Henry in 1990 and moved to Cedar Rapids. She was active in many Cedar Rapids community organizations including the Indian Creek Nature Center, History Center, Junior League, American Red Cross, Willis Dady Shelter and P.E.O. Chapter HJ. She and George had many outdoor adventures and traveled the world together. Kay is survived by her husband, George; a daughter, Polly Pagliai; two sons, Philip and Mike Shive; an adopted daughter, Helene Holmgren; two stepsons, Jerry and Jeff Henry; five grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two nieces; and a nephew.
Robert Schurk, 94, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on May 2. Bob was drafted into the U.S. military during World War II and served in Europe as an electrician to help rebuild France after the Allied and German bombings. Once the war in Europe was over, he played trombone in an Armed Forces Band stationed in Belgium for the remainder of his service. After attending Coe on the GI Bill, Bob worked for several companies in the Cedar Rapids area, retiring in 1990. In his retirement, he took up the trombone again, playing in several local bands and the Iowa Veterans Band. He also served as treasurer for the Masonic Lodge and was a member of the American Legion and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Bob is survived by a son, David Schurk; a daughter, Diane Burnett; a stepson, Jim Zika; two stepdaughters, Judy Rash and Janelle Stookey; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
1950
Sol Maikon, 92, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on August 18. Sol served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the South Pacific. He was a jeweler for nearly 70 years, working most recently at Ginsberg Jewelers. He was an active member of the Temple of Judah. Sol is survived by his wife, Sandy Maikon; and two grandchildren.
Harry “Hal” Marshall, 91, of Phoenix, Arizona, on May 18. Hal served in the U.S. Navy for the final 14 months of World War II. He began his career as an obituary writer for the Arizona Daily Star newspaper, eventually working his way up to the editor’s desk before accepting a job as director of the University of Arizona News Bureau in 1965. He taught night classes in journalism and earned his master’s degree in journalism from the university in 1978. He continued to work there until his retirement in 1984. In his free time, he volunteered his skills to write the newsletter for the Tucson Racquet and Swim Club. Hal is survived by four daughters, Jane Miller, Anne Bork, Julie Marshall and Clare Flynn; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Marilyn Ellis Marshall ’51; and his sister, Diane Marshall Schupp ’48.
George McNelly, 93, of Dowagiac, Michigan, on July 12. George served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 until his honorable discharge in 1946. After graduating from Coe, he went on to earn his master’s degree in applied psychology from Iowa State University and his doctorate in industrial psychology from Purdue University. He was a professor of industrial psychology at Purdue and was dean of the School of Technology for 21 years. George received the Alumni Award of Merit from Coe in 1988. George is survived by his wife of 69 years, Louise; a daughter, Diane McPherson; a son, Eric McNelly; two grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.
Lewis Vavra, 90, of Laramie, Wyoming, on July 5. In addition to his degree from Coe, Lewis earned a degree from Iowa State University. He worked for the Albany County School District and was a member of the Izaak Walton League and Laramie Plains Lion's Club. Lewis is survived by two daughters, Karen Spears and Ann Faris; a brother, Larry Vavra; two sisters, Gina and Sandy; a dear friend, Mary Petrick; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
1951
George Baker, 89, of Boca Grande, Florida, on September 3. George built a successful career in the banking industry. He worked for Continental Illinois National Bank of Chicago where he rose to the level of executive vice president. He later served as director for W. W. Grainger Inc., Reliance Group Holdings, The Midland Company, Williams Electronics Inc. and American Finance Enterprises Inc. George was a trustee of Coe College, as well as Children’s Memorial Hospital and The Field Museum of Natural History. He received the Alumni Award of Merit from Coe in 1968 and an honorary Doctor of Commercial Science degree in 1974. The George R. Baker Endowed Chair in Business Administration was established in his honor. The chair supported the work and careers of two of Coe’s most recognized faculty, Dr. William Spellman and Dr. Mickey Wu, and is now held by Dr. Ryan Baranowski ’08. George is survived by his wife, Renae; a daughter, Anne Baker ’81; a son, Jim Baker; four grandchildren; and his former wife, Maryanne Evans ’54.
Lois Luckel Klinck, of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, on March 18. Lois is survived by a daughter, Jeannine Collins. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard Klinck ’49.
Christian Lyngby, 92, of Grovetown, Georgia, on May 10. Christian served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. He earned his medical degree from Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM) and began his career as a primary care physician before returning to CCOM to complete residency training in anesthesiology. He became a professor of anesthesiology at CCOM and served several years as the chair of the anesthesiology department while continuing to practice medicine for over 35 years. Christian is survived by his wife of 70 years, Constance Lyngby; three daughters, Laura Mulloy, Karen Moffett and Gail Mellinger; and seven grandchildren.
Howard Moeller, 94, of Western Springs, Illinois, on January 5. Howard is survived by a daughter, Patricia Briggs; a son, Dennis Moeller; and five grandchildren.
1952
Charles Bixby, 88, of West Henrietta, New York, on May 1. In addition to Coe, Charles attended Augustana College and Colgate Rochester Divinity School, where he earned his master’s degree in divinity. He was a pastor for 55 years and supported ecumenical ministries. He was a citizen advocate for land development concerns and pioneered social initiatives such as affordable housing, housing concept communities, lead poisoning awareness, anti-smoking initiatives and special education. Charles is survived by his wife of 63 years, Beverly; two daughters, Brenda and Amy; two sons, Bryce and Drew; a brother, Bill; and four grandchildren.
David Hoyt, 88, of Salem, Oregon, on June 17. After graduating from Coe, David joined the U.S. Air Force, serving for two years as first lieutenant from 1952 until 1954. He spent his career working for State Farm Insurance, retiring as underwriting operations supervisor after 38 years with the company. David is survived by a son, Mike Hoyt; two daughters, Geri Jarvis and Jackie Hoyt; a sister, Virginia Peaslee; and two grandchildren.
1953
Charles Darragh, 88, of Arlington Heights, Illinois, on March 28. Chuck served in the U.S. Air Force after graduating from Coe. He was the co-founder of Active Fabricators Inc. and retired as president in 1991. As a Coe student, he played on the basketball team and was president of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Chuck is survived by two sons, Dan Darragh ’77 and William Darragh; two daughters, Cindy Zachary and Elizabeth Fowler; a sister, Charlotte Nussbaum; and five grandchildren.
Doris Lawson Meredith, 87, of Vinton, Iowa, on March 27. Doris earned her teaching degree from Arizona Teachers College. She taught fifth grade in Vinton and was a co-owner of Bette's Fashion with her sister. She was instrumental in founding the Benton County Food Bank and was an avid supporter of the Linn County Salvation Army. Doris is survived by her husband, Charles Meredith; three sons, Sam Richardson, Mike Meredith and Dave Meredith; three daughters, Rachael VanValkenburg, Sarah Schian and Paula McCuen; a sister, Lois Watson; 18 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.
Thomas Rump, 87, of Burlington, Iowa, on March 30. After graduating from Coe, Tom entered the U.S. Air Force as a second lieutenant. After serving in Korea with the 2157th Air Rescue Squadron, he joined the Air Force Reserves. During this time, he served as liaison officer for the Air Force Academy in Colorado. He retired from the Air Force after 22 years with the rank of major. Tom earned his teaching certificate from Iowa Wesleyan College and substitute taught in the Fort Madison School District. He worked for Job Training Partnership and taught general educational development classes through Southeastern Community College. He owned and operated Rumps Young Fashions and Varsity Shop in downtown Fort Madison for many years. Tom was active in the Boy Scouts as a scoutmaster, post advisor, district chairman and member of the board of directors and executive board for the Southeast Council of Boy Scouts. He was a member of the Order of the Arrow, served on the Tribal Council and was presented with the Pilot Award and the Silver Beaver. Tom also served on the Fort Madison Chamber of Commerce, the United Way board and was past president of the Fort Madison Rotary Club. He was a member of Holy Family Parish, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Reserve Officers of America and the Retired Officers Association. Tom is survived by his wife of 47 years, Ardith Rump; a son, Jeff Rump; a daughter, RaeAnn Menke; five grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
1954
James Madden, 85, of Hudson, Illinois, on March 26. After graduating from Coe, Jim served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan and practiced law for many years. He held leadership roles in his community and served others through pro bono legal services. He was involved in his church and volunteered at the local food bank. Jim is survived by a daughter, Lynne Yowell; a son, Mark Madden; a brother, Lauren Madden; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Constance Gay Madden ’57; and a daughter, Lori Madden Gapinski ’80.
Allan Peremsky, 87, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on March 31. Al played football at Coe and was a U.S. Air Force ROTC graduate. He served as a pilot and flight instructor in the Air Force, achieving the rank of captain. Al joined Armstrong’s department store in Cedar Rapids in 1958 and became president in 1972, retiring just a few years before the store closed in 1991. He served on the boards of numerous community organizations including the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, St. Luke’s Hospital, the Jaycees, United Way, Chamber of Commerce, Hawkeye Area Council of the Boy Scouts and Central YMCA. Al was a trustee of Coe College, received the Alumni Award of Merit in 1979 and was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame in 1981. He and his wife, Jayne Peremsky, also received the Distinguished Service Award from Coe in 2009 for their generous support of college events through Jayne’s business, Buresh Party & Special Events. Al is survived by his wife of 30 years, Jayne; a son, Tom Peremsky; a daughter, Sue Croshier Chadima; a stepson, Mike Saluri ’04; three grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Albia Machacek Peremsky ’24.
Richard “Dick” Suttle, 87, of Austin, Texas, on April 9. After graduating from Coe, Dick served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years, completing tours of duty throughout the world. He retired from the Air Force as a lieutenant colonel and then taught in the Austin Independent School District. Dick is survived by his wife of 64 years, Gail; a son, Richard Suttle Jr.; a daughter, Jeanette Vandiver; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
1955
Lois “Carolyn” Bissell, 86, of Bakersfield, California, on August 6. Carolyn began her career soldering radio parts and later returned to college to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She was a licensed therapist and served the people of Kern County for years as a counselor and was an advocate for people living with HIV and AIDS. Carolyn was active in scouting for many years, leading Girl Scout troops and serving as a den mother for the Boy Scouts. She was a member of Saint Francis of Assisi Parish and volunteered her time making rosaries for the parish. Carolyn is survived by a son, Steve Harris; a daughter, Julie Harris; two sisters, Joan Kuhn and Jan Nelson; four grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and an “other” daughter, Jennie Gorman.
James Gillespie, 86, of Winston Salem, North Carolina, on May 28. Jim was comptroller of HR Green Engineering in Cedar Rapids for 33 years, served on the board of directors of the Light Company Employees Credit Union for five years, then worked part time for the American Red Cross in Rochester, Minnesota, in semiretirement. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Joan; two daughters, Carol Holly and Barb Eulberg; a son, Dave Gillespie; a stepdaughter, Lisa Trefz; a brother, Ed Gillespie; 13 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Dean Kruse, 85, of Sequim, Washington, on December 10, 2018. After graduating from Coe, Dean entered the U.S. Air Force as a second lieutenant. He flew 200 missions in Vietnam from 1965-1967 in the B-57 and received the Distinguished Flying Cross and several air medals. He retired from the Air Force in 1979 and attended the San Diego Golf Academy for two years. After graduation, he managed public golf courses and private country clubs until his retirement in 1993. Dean is survived by a daughter, Anita; and a sister, Cleo Hackerson.
1957
George Etzel, 88, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on August 28. Prior to attending Coe, George served in the U.S. Army from 1951-1953 during the Korean War. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his actions in the war. George worked at Tait & Wagner Real Estate Company in Cedar Rapids until he left to pursue his passion in farming. He farmed up until the Etzel family donated their family farm of Sugar Grove to Indian Creek Nature Center in 2016.
Janet Fryrear Riley, 83, of Granite Bay, California, on August 22. Janet earned her master’s degree in education from Indiana University. She was an elementary school teacher for 28 years in California. She was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority at Coe. Janet is survived by a son, Damon Riley; and four grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 41 years, Paul Riley ’56.
Carole Gilbert Kenney, 84, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on August 27. Carole worked for the Cedar Rapids Community School District for 30 years, serving as the media secretary at Harding Middle School. She also taught piano lessons and played with the Cedar Rapids Symphony. Carole is survived by a son, Gil Ek; three daughters, Cindy Ek, Cheri Rizer and Nikki Kettelkamp; a sister, Susan Knapp; nine grandchildren, including Will Rizer ’21; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
John Hlavacek, 89, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on April 21. Prior to attending Coe, John studied and played football at the University of Iowa for two years. He then served as a cook in the U.S. military during the Korean war and completed his education and football career at Coe. After college, he worked as a fish biologist for the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife. Throughout his career he worked at and managed fish hatcheries in Iowa, Wisconsin, Alabama, Michigan and Nebraska. After retiring in 1980, he took a job as a hatchery manager at the Tonto Creek State Fish Hatchery in Arizona for several years. John is survived by his partner, Mary Joyce Miller; two sons, John and Joseph Hlavacek; four daughters, Diane Moore, Mary Frank, Jayne Crabdree and Shelley Sweet; 14 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.
LeOna Marshman Schoenwetter, 85, of Claremont, California, on June 7. LeOna taught preschool for many years, owned her own preschool and worked as director of 4-H programs serving 17 preschools, numerous staff and over 1,000 children. She also consulted, developed programs and co-wrote grant applications for education. She was a longtime member of P.E.O. and sponsored several children through World Vision International, YWCA and various church ministries. LeOna is survived by three sons, Andrew, David and Daniel; a sister, Nathalie Zimmerman; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Sandra Melahn Beck, 83, of Dundee, Illinois, on May 27. Sandra spent most of her career as an administrative assistant, working for Fin & Feather Farms, The Milk Pail and The Anvil Club. She served as treasurer and board member for United Way of Dundee Township, was a board member for the Ecker Center and was a former manager and volunteer at the Dundee Township Visitor’s Center. She was also involved with the Dundee Scots Booster Club, Dundee Jaycee-ettes and Dundee Women’s Club, and was a lifelong member of First Congregational Church. Sandra is survived by her husband of 32 years, Herbert Beck, Jr.; a daughter, Kimberly Bond; two sons, Scott and David Haverkampf; two stepsons, Robert and Herbert Beck III; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
1958
Peter Anderson III, 82, of West Chester, Pennsylvania, on May 9. Peter spent his career as a vice president for the Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United States for 34 years. He served as an advocate and board member for the Friends of the Chester County Library and was on the Pension Committee and Zoning Hearing Board for West Goshen Township. Peter is survived by his wife of 60 years, Donna Caldwell Anderson ’58; three daughters, Kirsten Leonard, Sara Arnold and Rachel Fox; a sister, Natalie Stuckens; and two grandchildren.
Barbara Williams Rosenberg, 82, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on April 28. Barb earned her master’s degree in counseling from the University of Iowa. She worked as a guidance counselor at Kirkwood Community College. She was an active member of the Cedar Rapids Junior League for many years. Barb is survived by three daughters, Gretchen Rosenberg-Crossen, Sonnie Boniface and Karlan Rosenberg; a son, Karl Rosenberg; a sister, JoAnne Grissel; six grandchildren, including Aubrie Boniface-Snodgrass ’10; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, John Rosenberg ’57.
1960
Terry Bjornsen, 82, of Marion, Iowa, on March 15. Terry attended Iowa State University and the University of Iowa in addition to Coe. He was the third generation to run the family business, Bjornsen Construction/Bjornsen Investment Corp. He pioneered the condominium concept in eastern Iowa and specialized in multi-family, commercial and industrial building development. He built, managed and leased over 2,000 apartments and condominiums and developed warehouses, commercial buildings and offices. Terry also designed and built single-family subdivisions all over Cedar Rapids. He never retired from the family business and proudly celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2012. Terry supported many community organizations, including several that benefited education and youth sports. He proudly donated land for the Metro Youth football fields and enjoyed watching his sons and grandchildren play there. He was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity at Iowa State and was a lifelong member of the Cedar Rapids Home Builders Association and Westminster Presbyterian Church. Terry is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marjorie Huisman Bjornsen ’60; a daughter, Tami Bjornsen Foley ’87; three sons, Greg Bjornsen ’86 and his wife, Kathy Elick Bjornsen ’85, Steve Bjornsen ’91 and Kevin Bjornsen ’92; a brother, Larry Bjornsen; 12 grandchildren; three nieces; and a nephew.
Robert Bradford II, 81, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on August 14. After attending Coe, Bob earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota. He worked for the Austin Daily Herald in Minnesota before joining his father at the Moose Lake Star Gazette. Over the years he purchased and managed numerous newspapers throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. He was also the board director of Community Resource Bank and Great Northern Bank. Bob served in the Minnesota National Guard from 1961-69. He was president of the Minnesota Society of the War of 1812 and Minnesota Newspaper Association and was named Publisher of the Year by the Wisconsin Newspaper Association in 1973. He was also a member of the Minneapolis Club, St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Kiwanis Clubs of Moose Lake and New Richmond, Northfield Rotary Club, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Sigma Delta Chi and the Minnesota Press Club board. After moving to Florida, he became a member of the Coral Ridge Country Club, All Saints Episcopal Church, Royal Order of Knights, Broward County Sheriff's Advisory Council and Coral Ridge Yacht Club. He was also a supporter of Broward Center for Performing Arts Foundation, Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art, Florida Grand Opera and Miami City Ballet. Bob is survived by his wife, Betsy Bradford; two songs, Justin and Robert Bradford III; a daughter, Elizabeth Kleber; a brother, Curtis Bradford; three grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Roger Rinaldi, 81, of Seneca, Illinois, on March 21. Roger taught orchestra, band and private music lessons at several schools in Seneca and the surrounding area. He also played in the Roger Rinaldi Combo along with his wife, Karin Swanson Rinaldi ’60. Roger is survived by his wife of 59 years, Karin; three daughters, Gayle Rinaldi Frey, Julie Rinaldi and Nancy Williams; two sons, Keith and Paul Rinaldi; and six grandchildren.
1961
Gerald McCalley, 85, of Independence, Iowa, on June 3. Gerald served in the U.S. Navy from 1952-1956. After attending Coe, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the Iowa State Teachers College (University of Northern Iowa). He taught at the Mental Health Institute in Independence before moving to Illinois, where he worked for the Minonk State Bank and became president of the Hanover Bank. Upon returning to Independence, he worked for Security State Bank, rising to the position of vice president. He was a member and former grand knight of the Saint Pius 10th Knights of Columbus, Saint John’s Parish financial board and several breakfast clubs. Gerald is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joan McCalley; two sons, Kevin and Chris McCalley; a daughter, Staci Holden; a sister, Shirley Russell; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Donald Snider, 79, the husband of Orlene Blue Snider ’61, of Davenport, Iowa, on June 24. Don worked alongside his family at Sniders Service Center and established his own business, Sniders West Kimberly, retiring at 77. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Orlene; two daughters, Barbara Snider Lucht and Audrey Talge; a son, Scott Snider; two brothers, Everett and Ronald Snider; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
1962
Veta Dunnick Hildebrand, 79, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on April 7. Veta attended graduate school at the University of Northern Iowa. She began her teaching career in the College Community School District in Cedar Rapids and later taught at Williamsburg, Cedar Falls and North Tama school districts, retiring in 1997 after 35 years. She was a member of Marion First United Methodist Church, Friendship Force International, Marion Friends of the Parks, Alpha Study Club of Gladbrook and Lake and Park Holding Corporation of Union Grove Lake. Veta is survived by her husband of 58 years, Richard Hildebrand; a son, Kent Hildebrand; a daughter, Carey Smith; a brother, Ivan Dunnick; and four grandchildren.
1963
Dolores Melberg Keiper, 102, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on May 22. Dolores earned her teaching degree from Coe after high school and began teaching in 1936. She taught in Cedar Rapids and Atkins throughout her career, retiring in 1982. During that time, she returned to Coe to earn her bachelor’s degree in psychology and earned her master’s degree from the University of Iowa. She was a member of Saint Stephens Lutheran Church where she sang in the choir. She also belonged to the Fellowship Club, the American Legion Auxiliary and was a member of the local book club. Dolores is survived by a daughter, Jan Nelson; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Terry Swanson, 77, of Indianola, Iowa, on April 15. Terry began his career as a scientist for the U.S. Navy before earning his Juris Doctor degree from George Washington University. He moved to Des Moines, Iowa, in 1970 to become the director of the Traffic Records and Criminal Information System. After relocating to work as the director of information services for the state of South Dakota, Terry returned to Des Moines for a job as the director of information services for the Des Moines Register. He later started his own business in information systems and opened a private law practice in 2000. He was active in the Bonsai Association and published his own book. Terry is survived by his wife, Jane; a son, Skip Swanson; a sister, Nancy Losenicky; a brother, Roger Swanson; a niece; and a nephew. He was predeceased by his father, Arthur Swanson ’65.
1965
James Hill, 76, of Bonita Springs, Florida, on June 30. James served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years, earning the rank of major. During his service, he joined a team in Space and Missile Warning, where he wrote the documentation and specifications for GPS. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sandy; two sons, Jason and Brent Hill; two brothers, Dick and Bruce Hill; and four grandchildren.
Ellen Nuechterlein Lawrence, 75, of Elgin, Illinois, on March 16. Ellen earned her master’s degree in music from the University of Iowa. She taught music theory at Elgin Community College and later changed careers to become a proofreader. She was an oboist and organist and accompanied several choral groups over the years. Ellen is survived by a daughter, Debbie Leeser; a son, Randy Lawrence; two sisters, Anne Nuechterlein Osslund ’64 and Faye Booth; two grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.
1968
Douglas Pfeiffer, 72, of Delaware, Ohio, on March 10. Douglas earned his doctorate in biochemistry from Wayne State University and completed a postdoctoral position at The Enzyme Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He began his career at the University of Minnesota, where he was a professor at the Hormel Institute in Austin, building a successful career by securing National Institute of Health funding and leading his research group in numerous publications on his research interests in mitochondrial function and ionophore activity. He later moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he was a professor in the medical biochemistry program at The Ohio State University, continuing his research and teaching. Douglas is survived by his wife, Kimberly Broekemeier; two daughters, Marlena and Ruth Pfeiffer; a brother, Roger Pfeiffer ’71; a grandchild; and two nephews.
1969
Joan Klinkenborg Petersen, 87, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on July 28. Before attending Coe, Joan earned her degree from Iowa State Teachers College (University of Northern Iowa). She was an elementary school teacher for 34 years, retiring from the Cedar Rapids Community School District in 1990. She is survived by a son, Steve Petersen; a daughter, Sue Sohrweide; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Robert Schope, 70, of Chicago, Illinois, on March 20.
1973
David Stanbro, 79, of Satellite Beach, Florida, on June 3. David spent his career working for Rockwell Collins.
Bob Watson, 68, of Jefferson City, Missouri, on August 4. Bob began his career in journalism with a job in radio in 1972 and worked as a reporter and assignment editor with KRCG-TV 13 from 1982–1989. Since 1989, he was a reporter for the Jefferson City News Tribune, covering the Missouri Legislature, state government, Lincoln University and various other issues. In 2014, the Missouri Senate passed a resolution honoring Bob for his 40th year covering state government and his 25th year with the News Tribune. He was also a senior member of the Capitol Press Corps. Bob is survived by a son, Drew Watson; a daughter, Beth Patton; his mother and stepfather, Sue and Bob McCormick; two sisters; and three grandchildren.
1974
Michael Blin, 66, of Marion, Iowa, on May 29. Michael spent his career as a chemist for 42 years, working for Cargill, SanLabs, the University of Iowa Center for Advanced Drug Development and Penford. He was an active member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church and was a third-degree knight in the Knights of Columbus Council No. 5390. He was also involved in YMCA programs with his children. Michael is survived by his wife of 38 years, Donna Blin; a son, Andrew Blin; two daughters, Chrystal Jensen and Ashley Stronck; a foreign-exchange daughter, Karin Melcher; a brother, Robert Blin; five grandchildren; and several cousins.
1979
Glenda Sears Bradshaw, 77, of Grinnell, Iowa, on July 15. Prior to attending Coe, Glenda attended Saint Luke’s School of Nursing in Cedar Rapids. She worked as a nurse for Shoyt’s Hospital in Waterloo, an obstetrician’s office in Cedar Rapids. She helped in a clinic in Macuma, Ecuador, was the volunteer coordinator at Saint Luke’s Hospital, worked at Story County Medical Center and served on the board of Story County Hospital in Nevada, Iowa, for over 12 years. When living in Ames, Iowa, Glenda and her husband, Larry, volunteered with the Red Cross and provided hospitality and support to many international students and professors from Iowa State University. The couple was also involved in mission work in South America and Papua New Guinea. They started a printing business, Crown Production, from their home and printed prayer letters, beginning readers and scripture portions for several language groups around the world. After retirement, they moved to Dallas, Texas, for several years and volunteered at Dallas International University, where Glenda processed international student applications and visas. She is survived by three daughters, Melinda Connon, Jenny Brenner and Betsy Eness; a sister, Marilyn Barnes; a brother, Larry Sears; and three grandchildren.
1981
Henry Cortez, 66, of Cadillac, Michigan, on June 27. Henry served in the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, earning the rank of major. Prior to attending Coe, he earned his registered nursing degree from Hackley School of Nursing. He later earned a master’s degree from The New School and a master’s degree in nursing from Sentinel School of Nursing. He worked as an operating room nurse at Munson Cadillac and Spectrum Health Reed City as well as working as a traveling nurse, retiring in 2018. He was a member of American Operating Room Nurses, Boy Scouts of America and Veterans Serving Veterans. Henry is survived by his wife, Carolyn Cortez; two daughters, Lisa Hendricks and Caryn Cortez; two sons, Michael and Kristofer Cortez; two grandchildren; and a niece.
1990
The murder case of Brian Schappert has been closed by the Cedar Rapids Police Department after 30 years. The two men whom police believe killed Brian have both passed away. Brian was a senior at Coe when he was killed during his overnight shift at a gas station convenience store on September 8, 1989.
2008
Carolyn Barnotes Shade, 44, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on July 10. Carolyn served in the U.S. Army as an E4 medic in Korea during peace time. She worked as a nurse at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. She is survived by three children, Christien, Kenzie and Matthew Shade; her parents, Michael and Karen Barnotes and Kathy Barnotes; a brother, Michael Barnotes; and a stepbrother, Casey Prince.
2016
Sam Vaske, 25, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on July 4. Sam earned her master’s degree in music therapy from the University of Iowa. She worked in the Coe College Admission Office recruiting new Kohawks and volunteered her time with the Arc of East Central Iowa. Sam is survived by her parents, Tim and Jenny Vaske; two sisters, Ali and Maddie Vaske; her grandparents, Donna and Danny Vaske and Dave and Carol Johnson; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Faculty/Staff
Former French professor Martha Cannon, 93, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on April 6. Martha earned her bachelor’s degree in French from Goucher College, her master’s degree from the University of Kansas and her doctorate from Yale University. She also received a diploma from Sorbonne University in Paris where she attended on a Fulbright travel grant in the second year of her doctorate program. Throughout her career, Martha taught French at the high school in Fairfield, Connecticut, taught both French and Latin at Franklin High School in Cedar Rapids and worked in the language lab at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. She ended her career by teaching French at Coe from 1972-1990. While living in Cedar Rapids, she played cello in the Cedar Rapids Symphony, and in her years in Des Moines she lobbied for Planned Parenthood and volunteered for their yearly book drive. After retiring, she assisted in an English as a second language program and drove for Meals on Wheels. Martha is survived by two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth Cannon; three nieces; two nephews; and many extended family members. She was predeceased by her husband, Coe Emeritus Howard Hall Professor of English Charles Cannon.
Former economics professor and chair of the economics department John Chapman, 86, of Billings, Montana, on March 23. John served in the National Guard as a high school student and joined the U.S. Navy at age 17, ending his service in 1951. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business and doctorate in economics from the University of Colorado Boulder. After a brief stint as assistant professor of economics at the University of West Virginia, he joined Coe as chair of the economics department and associate professor of economics in 1967. He rose to full professorship in 1976, a position he held until 1979. While at Coe, he helped grow the economics department and was voted Outstanding Professor by the students in 1971. He was also one of two Coe professors rated “excellent” in 1971's “The Underground Guide to the College of Your Choice” and was listed in “Outstanding Educators of America” in 1973. After leaving Coe, he founded The Chapman Company, a registered investment advisory business from which he retired in 1996. While living in Cedar Rapids, John served as commissioner and chairman of the Cedar Rapids Airport Commission, director of the Cedar Rapids Symphony Orchestra Association, director of the Public Health Nursing Association and as a precinct committeeman. He became a community activist, helping preserve a historic downtown district by opposing a plan from the Iowa State Highway Commission to route Interstate 380 through that area. He also co-founded the French American Camps exchange program and performed professionally as a stand-up bass jazz musician. Later in life, after relocating to Wyoming and Montana, he continued to perform locally and served as a board member for the Yellowstone Jazz Festival; Park County, Wyoming, Library Foundation; and Cody, Wyoming, Economic Development Council. John is survived by his wife, Dawn; three daughters, Stephanie, Kirsten and Cynthia Chapman; a sister, Kathleen Hughes; and two stepgrandchildren.
Former athletic director and chair of the physical education department James Crabbe, 82, of Pinehurst, North Carolina, on March 12. James attended the University of Iowa for two years and played on the football team. He then received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point and was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force after graduation. He became a helicopter pilot and flew air rescue missions out of California, Japan and Thailand. After resigning from the Air Force, James returned to the University of Iowa and earned his doctorate in exercise science. He spent the next 16 years as a professor, coach and athletic director at California Polytechnic University, the University of Nebraska, Coe and Saint Andrews Presbyterian College. He made a final career move into the financial services industry that led to the creation of Crabbe Financial Group LLC. James is survived by his wife of 56 years, Anne; a son, James Crabbe ’85; two daughters, Carolyn Ericson and Elizabeth Dabrowski; a sister, Margery Crabbe Stell; and eight grandchildren.
Former assistant geology professor Ralph Langenheim Jr., 97, of Urbana, Illinois, on August 3. Ralph served as an officer in the U.S. Navy during World War II, taking part in the D-Day landings. He retired from the Navy Reserve as a lieutenant commander. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tulsa, his master’s degree from the University of Colorado and his doctorate from the University of Minnesota. After teaching at Coe from 1950-1952, he became an assistant professor of paleontology at the University of California, Berkeley. He later took a position as a professor of geology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, becoming professor emeritus in 1993. Ralph worked with many other institutions over the years including the National History Museum, Instituto Geologico Nacional de Colombia, Geological Survey Canada, Geological Survey Iran, Geological Survey Republic of China and Polytechnic University Albania and served as distinguished visiting professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He was the book review editor of Geological Education for many years and received the Rudolph Eric Raspe Medal from the Institute Geometaphysik Neuschwanstein. He was a partner in Lanman Associates Consultant Geologists and held memberships with many professional organizations including the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Paleontological Society, Geological Society of America, Society Sedimentary Geology, American Association Petroleum Geologists, International Association Cnidaria Specialists, Illinois Academy of Sciences, The Explorers Club, Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory, Naval Institute, Rotary Club, Exchange Club, Reserve Officer Association, United States Ship Landing Craft Infantry National Association and Sigma Xi. He also served on the Champaign County Board as a member of the Environment and Land Use Committee and the Highway Committee. He was the Champaign County Mahomet Aquifer Consortium representative, served on the Champaign-Urbana Urban Area Transportation System Committee and the Human Services Committee and was a precinct committee representative in Savoy. Ralph is survived by his wife, Mary Casey Diana; a daughter, Victoria Langenheim; a son, Ralf Langenheim; two stepsons, Eric Steckler and Matthew Diana; a grandchild; and four stepgrandchildren.
Former English instructor and Upward Bound program director Robert Renk, 81, of Rockford, Illinois, on August 26. Robert earned his bachelor’s degree in English literature from Kalamazoo College and his master’s degree from Cornell University. In addition to Coe, he taught adult education at Kirkwood Community College and also taught at A&M University and Trinity Valley Junior College. He is survived by a son, William Renk.
Former dean of women, director of the Coe Work Program, acting director of financial aid, dean of students and associate director of development Carol Rickey, 82, of Holland, Michigan, on August 7. While living in Cedar Rapids, Carol also served as the director of the YWCA. After moving to Michigan, she became the executive director of The Center for Women in Transition. She later served as director of child and family services and after retirement was invited back to serve as interim director during a time of transition. Carol was also an artist, specializing in pen, watercolor and acrylics. Her art was included in several community projects over the years. She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church, serving as a lay Eucharistic minister, vestry member, senior warden, Buildings and Grounds Committee member and greeter extraordinaire. She also consulted with parishes throughout the Diocese of Western Michigan, offering her expertise to leadership teams in transition.
Former library staff member Ardyth Soppe, 93, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on September 9. Ardyth earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Iowa. In addition to working at Coe, she was a substitute teacher for several years at Jefferson High School and most recently worked as a claims specialist at Job Service of Iowa, retiring in 1991 after many years of service. She also served as past president of the American Legion Auxiliary. Ardyth is survived by a daughter, Shelley Soppe McDowell ’79; three grandchildren; a niece; and a nephew.
Former vice president and provost Carson Veach Sr., 89, of Naples, Florida, on August 11. Carson served in the U.S. military during the Korean War. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Saint Anselm’s College and was awarded a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship to Harvard University. At Harvard, he was one of 50 people in the world accepted into the graduate school in English where he earned his master’s degree in literature. He completed his doctoral studies at Indiana University. In addition to Coe, he held teaching and administrative leadership positions at Colgate University, Notre Dame College of Staten Island, Pennsylvania State University where he was director of the Altoona campus and Chicago State University where he was vice president and provost. He also coached the debate team at Colgate University. Carson is survived by his wife, Pauline; a son, Coe College Trustee Carson Veach ’74; four daughters, Cindy Veach Lappetito ’75, Cheryl, Cathy and Carrie Shea; a brother, Peter Veach; a sister, Jody Beyer; 16 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Former physical plant staff member Earl Yanecek, 91, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on August 7. Earl earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Iowa State College while participating in the ROTC program. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. During his 27-year military career, he was stationed in many bases throughout the United States and overseas. He was a decorated fighter pilot during the Vietnam War, earning numerous medals and decorations including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star. He flew the F-104A Starfighter in the first ultrasonic fighter squadron in the world and was a member of the River Rats, having flown many missions in his F-4 Phantom over the Red River Valley in North Vietnam. After retiring from the Air Force, Earl worked for Coe for 30 years. He is survived by two sons, Robert and James Yanecek; and two grandchildren.