1946-2025 

Danny Don Nickel, affectionately known as Danny to his friends and family, passed away peacefully in Audubon on July 11, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on Sept. 24, 1946, in Guthrie County, Danny was a man whose wisdom, generosity and passion for life left a lasting imprint on the hearts of those who knew him.

Danny’s early years were shaped by the loving guidance of his parents, Clifford and Fern (Scott) Nickel, whose values were deeply instilled in him. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Cheryl (Howland) Nickel, and together they built a life full of love and shared endeavors. Though his family tree bore the loss of many branches, including his parents and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Orville and Thelma (Joens) Howland; brother, Bill Nickel; sister, Molly (Nickel) Mehalovich; and brothers-in-law, Tony Mehalovich, Keith Matthews, Darwin Howland, Dalton Howland and Jerry Lauritsen. Danny’s legacy continued to flourish through his surviving family members.

He was a cherished father to his daughters, Clarissa (Clair) Calmer and Jenny Fox. His role as a grandfather to Elizabeth (Jared) Hawks, Kady (Mitchel) Miller, Ashley Anderson and Kaleb Fox brought him immeasurable joy, and the light of his life shone even brighter with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Stetson Hawks, Ellie Miller, Cooper Miller, Bryson Anderson and Brailyn Anderson.

He is also survived by Wayne Nickel, brother, and Evelyn Matthews, sister. Sister and brother-in-laws, Margene Nickel, Donna (Marvin) Straight, Karen (Merle) Petersen, Sandi Lauritsen, Linda Jorgensen, Delbert (Jayne) Howland, Alane (Keith) Wilson and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Danny’s professional journey was marked by a creative and entrepreneurial spirit. His tenure at Emmert’s Manufacturing allowed him to showcase his talent to later begin designing and building fiberglass utility bodies. This experience laid the groundwork for his venture into self-employment, where his craftsmanship and innovation continued to thrive.

Beyond his work, Danny was a man of many interests. He could often be found with a fishing pole in hand, patiently waiting for the catch of the day, or in his workshop, surrounded by the scent of sawdust, meticulously shaping wood into masterpieces. His love for the outdoors extended to trail riding in his jeep and four-wheeling, activities that spoke to his adventurous soul and love for nature.

To describe Danny as wise is to acknowledge his profound understanding and insight into life’s complexities. His generosity knew no bounds, as he readily extended his help to those in need. His passion was evident in everything he pursued, whether it was a new project or time spent with his loved ones.

We bid farewell to a man who lived his life with purpose and joy. Danny’s memory will be treasured, his stories recounted with smiles, and his presence deeply missed. As the sun sets on a life well-lived, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit remains with us, guiding us like a beacon of light through the paths he once journeyed. Danny Don Nickel’s legacy will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.

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.