1933-2025

Betty Clouse was born April 16, 1933, in Guthrie Center and passed away on July 25, 2025, surrounded by family at her home. Betty was united in marriage to Vernon Clouse on June 24, 1951, in Yale. To this union, three children were born: Greg (Mick) Clouse, Nancy (Steve)Trumm and Mike (Brenda) Clouse.

Also surviving Betty are many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon; grandson, Ross; aunt, Leona; sister in law, Esther Clouse; brothers in law, Gerald Clouse and Phillip Clouse; and parents, Wilbur Stewart and Geneve Thompson.

Betty babysat many children and for a lot of people in the area. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Twigg Funeral Home, 506 Prairie St., Guthrie Center. Interment will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery near Bowman Chapel in rural Guthrie Center. Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.

1926-2025

Paul Wesley Scott, 99, son of Sperry Wesley and Ida Mae (Malasie) Scott, was born May 28, 1926, on a farm in Aroma Park, Illinois. He passed away Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the New Homestead in Guthrie Center.

Paul graduated from Kankakee High School in 1944. He enlisted into the United States Navy just two days later, proudly serving during WWII from 1944 to 1946. Paul was a machinist mate 2nd Class on an LST (Landing Ship Tank). Most of his service was spent in the China Sea where he and his shipmates narrowly survived the devastation caused by Typhoon Louise in 1945. Following his honorable discharge when the war ended in 1946, he attended the University of Illinois for one year. In 1948, he began his career working for Sears & Roebuck in Kankakee, Illinois. On June 6, 1954, he married Waneta Mae Dalton in Kankakee, Illinois. They made their home in Kankakee with their three children, Mike, Beth and Laura, until 1966, when they moved to Bourbonnais, Illinois. Paul was a loyal and dedicated employee for 40 years at Sears & Roebuck. He was loved by his fellow workmates and customers. Paul then retired in 1988. They lived in Bourbonnais until 1992, when they moved to Lake Panorama. They built their dream home on hole No. 9 on the Lake Panorama National Golf Course, overlooking the lake and instantly became enveloped in this small lake community. Paul made many friends and played a lot of golf. In 2012, they moved into the town of Panora to a smaller home, and then, in 2019, they moved to the independent living at the New Homestead in Guthrie Center. In June of 2023, Paul and Waneta moved to long term care at the New Homestead.

In his younger years, Paul enjoyed playing baseball, especially when his brother Morris caught and Paul pitched. Paul also enjoyed bowling, golfing, camping, mowing, playing cards such as cribbage and euchre. He had a love/hate relationship with the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears (but always remained a loyal fan). Paul fiercely loved his wife, his children and his grandkids. Those who were lucky enough to know Paul will remember him for his willingness to help others, his ability to make friends anywhere he went and his iron-grip handshake.

Paul was a member of the Panora United Methodist Church, Panora Masonic Lodge, the Masonic Lodge in Kankakee, Illinois, the Frank Grubb American Legion Post No. 372, Panora, Iowa, and the Kankakee American Legion Color Guard from 1949-1958.

Paul is survived by his wife of 72 years, Waneta Scott of Guthrie Center; children, Michael (Julie) Scott of Peru, Illinois; Elizabeth (Tim) Gates of Kankakee, Illinois; and Laura (Scott) Kemble of Panora; grandchildren, Maclain Scott, Phillip Scott, Molly Dalby (Brian), Andrew Gates (Heather), Josh Gates (Crystal), Sam Kemble (Melissa and son, Finn), Jake Kemble, and Annie Kemble; great-granddaughters, Audrey and Hazel Gates; great-grandson, Lane Dalby; sister, Gloria Goodin and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Morris Scott; brother-in-law, Larry Goodin; and sister-in-law, Sharon Scott.

Memorial services will be 11 a.m., Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services. Burial of his cremains will be in the Kankakee Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Kankakee, Illinois, at a later date.

Memorials may be left to the Panora Masonic Lodge, the Panora United Methodist Church or to the family.

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.