1963-2025

Kurt Alan Kalbach was born on June 22, 1963, to Janice and Harry Kalbach in Guthrie Center. He was raised in Menlo, where his lifelong curiosity and thirst for knowledge took root. As a child, he followed his father around the family’s gas station, learning everything he could about fixing cars, repairing tires and running the day-to-day operations. At just 14, he began hauling fuel for the station, demonstrating the strong work ethic that would define his life.

Kurt graduated early from Stuart-Menlo High School in 1982 and went on to earn an associate degree in electronic engineering technology from the National Education Center. His passion for mechanics and problem-solving led him to a successful career with Xerox Corporation, where he became one of only 116 technical specialists in the U.S. servicing high-volume mainframe printers. Over his 17 years at Xerox, he earned multiple awards and certifications, reflecting his dedication and expertise.

Beyond his professional achievements, Kurt was deeply committed to his community. He followed in his father’s footsteps by serving with the Menlo Fire Department, where he volunteered for more than 20 years, earning multiple fire school certifications, and notably saving a life during a house fire. He served as assistant fire chief for nine years, embodying the spirit of service and leadership.

Life took an unexpected turn in 2007 when Kurt faced challenges that led to his time in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Even in adversity, he remained committed to learning and growth, training multiple service dogs to detect low blood sugar for diabetes patients. In 2020, due to changes in laws and good behavior, Kurt was released early. His family had always stood by him, and his sisters Colleen (Dave Hodson) and Julia (Travis Green) were there to support him as he reintegrated into society. While on probation, he obtained his CDL license and began working for Logan Contractors Supply.

Kurt’s passion for cars never faded, and he fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing another 1979 Pontiac Trans Am with the iconic gold eagle on the hood. Technology, however, proved to be a challenge — learning to use a smartphone and navigating Facebook took some time. In 2020, after hearing a 38 Special song on the radio, he attempted to reconnect with Mechiel Kopaska, whom he had dated years before. Though he initially misspelled her name, fate intervened a year later in 2021 when another 38 Special song inspired him to try again. This time, he found her through her sister, Melissa Kopaska, and their connection reignited instantly. His resilience and faith never wavered, and he credited God for guiding him through his trials and reuniting him with his true love, Mechiel Kopaska.

Kurt and Mechiel spoke nonstop for days, and in April 2021, she visited him. Their love story came full circle on Sept. 17, 2021, when Kurt proposed at a 38 Special concert in Omaha, Nebraska, during the song “Caught Up in You,” specifically the line that said, “You’ve got me down on my knees.” He moved to Florida to be with Mechiel, and on May 7, 2022, they were married on Howard Park Beach in Tarpon Springs, surrounded by family and friends.

In April 2023, they moved to Tallahassee to pursue their dream of developing an RV resort, living full-time in their RV. Kurt worked as a CDL driver for RIS Insulation, where his compassion for customers and coworkers shone through. Kurt embraced the motorcycling community, becoming a Road Captain in the Harley Owners Group (HOG) and was responsible for the content in their monthly newsletter. He also joined the Tallahassee Region Antique Automobile Club of America, where Kurt proudly showed his Trans Am. His beloved 1979 Pontiac Trans Am was a source of pride, winning multiple awards including a costume contest where he and Mechiel dressed as Bandit and Frog, and he was featured on the cover of Motoring Tampa Bay and in a YouTube episode of “Junkyards and Barn Finds with Sean.”

His love for riding extended to the Southern Cruisers Riding Club (SCRC) and the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA), where Kurt shared his testimony with troubled young men at Liberty Wilderness, hoping to inspire change in their lives. He was also a member of the Patriot Guard Riders where members attend the funeral of members of the U.S. Military and first responders.

He attended New Walk Church online out of Zephyrhills, Florida, and participated in weekly Bible study on Zoom.

Motorcycling was an integral part of his life: Kurt had completed 66 of the 99 Freedom Rocks in Iowa and was scheduled to complete the remaining 34 this summer. He cherished his visits back home to Menlo, where he spent time with “the Menlo Boys,” reminiscing and sharing laughter over the good old days. He and Mechiel would later move to a local campground, where they became camp hosts. Sundays were marked by the unmistakable scent of smoked meat, as Kurt developed a passion for barbecue, learning techniques from his brothers-in-law Dave Hodson and Travis Green and studying “Chud” online for the latest methods.

Kurt Alan Kalbach passed away on May 28, 2025, at 10:10 p.m. at HCA in Tallahassee after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his wife, two sisters and a dear friend. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and parents, Janice and Harry Kalbach, and in-laws, Judy and Larry Kopaska. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mechiel; his sisters, Colleen (Dave) Hodson and Julia (Travis) Green; his aunt, Marion Johnson; his uncle, Gilbert (Charlotte) Bentley; and a host of cousins and friends, all of whom he considered family.

Kurt’s life was a testament to redemption, love and unwavering faith. He often said his story could be a Lifetime movie — and, indeed, it was a life full of drama, heart and triumph.

In lieu of flowers, all donations collected will go to the Tallahassee Chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association and the Menlo Fire Department.  Donations will be accepted by mail to 5753 Highway 85 N, PMB 5282, Crestview, FL 32536.

A celebration of life will be held in the Tallahassee, Florida, area and in Menlo. Future dates to be determined.

1945-2025

Donna Rose Burris, 79, daughter of Richard and Marjorie (Johnston) Kuster, was born Sept. 21, 1945, in Guthrie Center. She passed away Sunday, June 22, 2025, at Regency Park Nursing and Rehab Center, Jefferson, where she has been a resident since 2014.

Donna attended Guthrie Center schools. She married Raymond Gibson on Sept. 18, 1965, and later divorced in 1981. To this union, five children were born. They made their home in Logan for a short time before moving to a farm near Adair. They moved to Panora around 1975. Donna worked at Mrs. Grimes Canning Factory in Grimes for around 10 years. She then worked as a supervisor at the Redfield Brick Yard for 10 years. She then retired from Sunny Fresh Foods where she worked for three years.

Donna enjoyed cooking and listening/singing to music.

Donna is survived by her children, Marjorie Gibson of Linden; Malissa Gibson of Bagley; Michael (Ester) Gibson of Panora; Marsha (Kurt) Higgins of Everly; and Monica (Don) Reynolds of Linden; nine grandchildren, Brittaney Gibson, Stephanie (Mark) Gorsuch, Dale Morlan, Sara Gibson, Ashley Hirsch, Alec Higgins, Allison Higgins, Jordon (Jenna) Reynolds, and Makayla (Parker) Niemier; and several great-grandchildren. Siblings, David Kuster, Darlene Hall and Bonnie Fredericksen. She was preceded in death by her parents and infant brother, Doyle.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Twigg Funeral Home, Guthrie Center. Burial will be in Bear Grove Cemetery, rural Guthrie Center. Visitation will be Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.

1961-2025

David Duane Tellinghuisen passed away on June 13, 2025, in Sioux City. He was born to Hiram and Edna (Viken) Tellinghuisen on Oct. 2, 1961, in Breckenridge, Minnesota.

During his childhood, David and his family moved several times, living in Minnesota, North Dakota and Iowa. David graduated from Guthrie Center High School in 1979. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in religion from Northwestern College (Iowa) and a Master of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan. David was an ordained pastor in the Reformed Church of America and served churches in Montgomery, New York, Hawarden, Iowa, and Bradenton, Florida. He later served as a transitional pastor for churches in Illinois, Wisconsin and Florida.

On June 15, 1985, he was united in marriage to Kelly Conley in Spencer. They were blessed with two children, Ryan and Laura, and two grandchildren.

David loved time with his family, particularly trips to visit his children and many excursions and adventures with Ryan. Above all, David loved his Savior, Jesus Christ, and sharing his faith with others. That abiding faith was inspirational to those who knew him, particularly as he faced terminal cancer. And as all who knew him would attest, he had an affinity for Apple products.

David is survived by his wife, Kelly; son, Ryan of Sioux City, and daughter, Laura (Kurt) Henrichs of Creston; grandchildren, Ivy and Oliver; and brother, Donald (Becca) Tellinghuisen of Grand Rapids, Michigan

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held for David at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church, Sibley, with Rev. Wayne Sneller officiating. Livestream link is https://m.youtube.com/@sibleyfirstpresbyterianchu8559/streams. Burial will take place at Holman Township Cemetery in Sibley, and lunch will follow at the church. Visitation with the family will begin at 10 a.m. Wednesday until 10:45 a.m. at the church. The Porter Funeral Home in Hawarden is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to www.porterfuneralhomes.com.

1932-2025

Barbara Jean Artist, affectionately known as Barb to her friends and loved ones, was a beacon of unwavering love and selflessness. Born on Sept. 28, 1932, at the home of her great-grandfather, Andrew Dove, in North Branch Township, Guthrie Center, to Kenneth and Lucille Charter, she embarked on a journey of compassion and dedication that would come to define her 92 years of life. On June 13, 2025, Barb departed this world as peacefully as she lived in it, at The New Homestead in Guthrie Center, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and optimism.

Barb’s early life was growing up alongside her siblings, Paul and Carolyn, in the nurturing embrace of her parents. Though her brother Paul and her parents preceded her in death, Barb cherished their memories. On June 30, 1951, she united in marriage with Delbert Artist, and together they lovingly raised six children: Rick, Craig, Randy, Teresa, Mike and Mark. Their home was a sanctuary of love, and hard work, with Barb’s kind spirit at the very heart of it.

Barb’s commitment to education was a testament to her belief in improving and preparing for life. After graduating from Guthrie Center Community School in 1950, she pursued the study of nursing but stopped in order to get married. However, 30 years later, she again pursued the study and received her LPN from Iowa Western Community College. Her career at the Exira Medical Clinic under Dr. Shaffer spanned two decades, where she was much more than a nurse; she was a smiling face and a friend to all who walked through the clinic’s doors.

Barb’s life was a remarkable blend of service to her family and friends. As a farm wife and mother, she juggled the demands of raising six children with grace and vigor. Her hands, always busy, tended to the garden, milked cows and even drove a tractor when needed. Barb’s home was a hub of activity and care, where she not only cooked and cleaned for her beloved family but also instilled in them the values of respect, education and hope.

Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence. A lifelong member of the Bowman Chapel Methodist Church, Barb’s love for the Lord shone brightly in her actions and her words. She taught Sunday School, instilling the love of God in the hearts of many. Her friends, some of whom she cherished for decades, knew her as a woman whose faith was as authentic as it was profound.

Barb’s interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. She found solace in reading and studying her Bible and expressed her love through the meticulous stitches of the garments she sewed for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her culinary skills were legendary, especially during the holidays when her cooking brought together generations in celebration. Education was a cause close to her heart, and she championed her children’s pursuit of the future with the unwavering belief that “if there is a will, there is a way.” She wanted to leave a legacy for her grandchildren so they would know each other and cherish times together in what she called Cousin’s Days. Every summer for 20 years, she brought them all together for a week of fun and learning. Plus, she loved watching and hearing about her grandkids’ and great grandkids’ activities as well.

Described by those who knew her best as loving, thoughtful and selfless, Barb truly embodied the wife of noble character as written in Proverbs 31. She set an exemplary standard not only for her children but for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well. Her memory will forever be a testament to the power of a life lived with purpose, faith and boundless love.

Barb is survived by her children, Rick (Julie) Artist, Craig (Rhonda) Artist, Randy Artist, Teresa (Steve) Johnson, Michael (Jennie) Artist, and Mark Artist; 17 grandchildren; a multitude of great-grandchildren; and sister, Carolyn Hollar. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Delbert, on Feb. 21, 2025; and her brother, Paul Charter.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Friday, June 20, 2025, at Bowman Chapel United Methodist Church, rural Guthrie Center. Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, rural Guthrie Center.  Visitation will be Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Twigg Funeral Home, Guthrie Center.

Memorials may be left to Bowman Chapel or the New Homestead’s activity fund.

1954 – 2025

William “Bill” J. Carpenter passed away peacefully at home on May 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on Christmas Day in 1954, Bill was known to his many friends as “Carp” or “Willie.”

Bill was raised on the family farm north of Boone in the unincorporated community of Ridgeport and remained in the Ridgeport/Boone area his entire life. A 1973 graduate of Boone High School, Bill stayed close with his classmates and played a key role in organizing reunions — proudly attending his 50th in 2024.

He earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from DMACC but soon followed his entrepreneurial spirit to start Carpenter Construction, Inc. in 1982, selling and building grain bins. In 1987, he became a dealer with Lester Building Systems, launching his successful career in pole building construction. Bill was well-known and highly respected in the industry — across a four-county radius, you will find grain bins and buildings bearing the Carpenter Construction name.

On March 22, 1986, Bill married Lila Leininger. Together they raised Lila’s two children, Michael and Kristen, whom Bill loved and treated as his own. The family shared many memories camping, fishing, attending MLB and NFL games, and vacationing at Disney World and New York City. He passed down a strong work ethic to his kids — one of his favorite sayings was, “I love to see kids work!”

Bill loved the outdoors — hunting, fishing, mushroom hunting and spending time at the cabin he owned north of his home. He was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, Green Bay Packers and Iowa State Cyclones. He played on the Adobe men’s slow-pitch softball team and bowled in the local farmers’ league. Bill also enjoyed hosting friends and family for pontoon rides at Don Williams Lake. One of his favorite songs was “Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw — and that’s exactly how he lived: with joy, generosity and enthusiasm. He never met a stranger. Bill was also a fan of laughter, comedy movies, attending concerts and being a huge jokester, playing pranks on many friends and family members, who often found ways to get him back.

After being widowed in 2001, Bill found love again and married Lori Litrell aboard a cruise ship in February 2014. Together, they enjoyed many cruises and adventures, traveling with friends and spending time with family.

Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Lila Carpenter; parents, John and Ruth Carpenter; in-laws, Lowell and Jessie Leininger; and his beloved cousin, Julie Molesky of Anaheim, California.

He is survived by his wife, Lori Carpenter; step-children Michael Crouthamel (Tina), Kristen Crouthamel (Josh), and daughter-in-law Amy Crouthamel; grandchildren Kenley and Lila Crouthamel; Lori’s children and grandchildren; sister Marsha Crouthamel (Scott); his dear cousin and lifelong friend Bart Kennedy; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

A funeral service for Bill was held on Friday, June 6 at First Baptist Church in Boone. A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.

In lieu of flowers or plants, memorials may be directed to the Boone County Hospital Foundation, Lila Carpenter Scholarship Fund — established by Bill in memory of his late wife.

1944-2025

Jane Rae Clarke, 81, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Guthrie County Hospital. Born on Jan. 8, 1944, in Perry, Jane was the only child of Vermyl Holmes Shick and Wilda Maxine (Danekas) Shick. She spent her childhood in Rippey and later Lanyon, where she developed a love for the outdoors and the close-knit spirit of rural life.

After graduating from Prairie Community High School in 1962, Jane attended college in Northern Iowa before making a bold move to St. Louis in 1965. There, she began her career with Monsanto Company, building a life of independence and adventure. It was in St. Louis that she met and married William Clarke on Jan. 7, 1967, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter and travel. Together, they raised two sons, Sean William and Brian Matthew, and created a home full of warmth and memories.

In 1976, Jane and Bill returned to Iowa, settling on a farm near Jefferson in 1977. Her childhood passions for water sports and nature remained a central part of her life, leading to their purchase of a home on Lake Panorama in 1987 where they ultimately retired to. Whether she was water skiing, jet skiing with her beloved basset hound Rosie, or simply enjoying an afternoon at the lake with iced tea and good company, Jane embraced every moment with joy. She and Bill also cherished their years wintering in Arizona and later in Naples, Florida.

Jane’s love of games and camaraderie showed through her time playing bridge, board games and, later, online games with friends, her children and grandkids. Her appreciation for antiques and collectibles, passed down from her parents, led to many treasured finds over the years. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Jefferson and found happiness in simple pleasures — watching her grandchildren swim at the lake, sharing stories with friends, and, in later years, racing her scooter across the yard with spirit and determination!

She is survived by her devoted husband, William Clarke of Panora; her son, Sean Clarke and Liana of Naples, Florida; her son, Brian Clarke and his wife Angela of Long Grove, Illinois; and six grandchildren — Christian, Alexander, Isabella, Ricky, Bobbi and Angelyse. She was preceded in death by her parents, Vermyl and Wilda Shick.

Jane lived a life rich with adventure, love and laughter. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered by those who had the privilege to know her.

A visitation with the family will be held Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home, Jefferson.  A eulogy will be given at 10 a.m., followed by visitation with family and friends until noon.

Services were arranged by Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home and Cremation Care, Jefferson.