Summer 2024 Courier Obituaries

Obituaries

1943

Pauline Huston Miller, 101, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on December 22, 2023 with her three children at her bedside. She was a lifelong resident of Cedar Rapids and was the widow of Harold Miller, who passed away in 2006. She graduated from Coe College in 1943 having joined the Alpha Xi Delta sorority. Pauline is survived by her children: Kathleen (Willie) Jungling of Anoka, Minnesota.; Daniel (JoAnn) Miller of Ames, Iowa; and Julie (Jim) Schnoebelen of Cedar Rapids.

1944

John “Jack” Walters, 103, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on January 18, 2024. He graduated in 1939 from Franklin High School in Cedar Rapids and from Coe College in 1946, where he was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.  He married Ann Louise Engberg ’43 just prior to entering the Army Air Force during World War II. Jack was employed for more than 48 years as a local agent for National Life of Vermont and earned his Chartered Life Underwriter designation in 1951. He was active in numerous civic organizations and his church. Jack is survived by his four children, James (Janet) Walters of Lake Lure, North Carolina, Martha (David) Booth of Cedar Rapids, Thomas (Susan) Walters of LaValle, Wisconsin, and Mary (Scott) Malcolm of Wheaton, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife of 69 years, Ann Louise Walters, in 2012.

1946

Lois Apel Sellon, 98, of Mason City, Iowa, on March 25. Lois was born in rural Mitchell county and attended Coe College with a concentration in music for two years before transferring to Iowa State Teachers College (UNI) to complete her degree. She married her high school sweetheart, Eugene Sellon, on September 1, 1946. They made their home in Nora Springs where Eugene would farm while Lois took care of the children, the home and worked as a piano teacher. Those left to cherish Lois' memory are her children Tom Sellon and Terri (Jim) Patchen. Those preceding Lois in death are her husband Eugene Sellon and son Steven Sellon.

1948

Virginia Crim Duecker, 97, of Ames, Iowa, on December 25, 2023.

Dorothy Ackerman VanMetre, 94, of Saint Louis, Missouri, on August 19, 2022. Dorothy grew up in a small community, Van Horn, Iowa, during the depression. Despite hardships she was an outstanding student and valedictorian of her class. She later became one of the first female Ph.D. recipients in psychology. She had a distinguished career as a clinical psychologist for almost 40 years. She is survived by son John and daughter Leslie and 5 grandchildren. She enjoyed and excelled at word and logic puzzles and was a voracious reader. Anyone who met her knew she had a kind heart and wonderful sense of humor. 

1949

Margaret Phinney Wetzel, 96, of Scottsdale, Arizona, on January 16. After attending Coe College, where she majored in music, Margaret married her college sweetheart, Chester "Chet" Wetzel ’49 in 1951. Margaret taught nursery school for 18 years in Connecticut, while also staying busy as a pastor's wife. Together they enjoyed traveling, having toured Europe many times visiting cathedrals and enjoying places less traveled. She is predeceased by her husband, Chester M. Wetzel and her son, John. Margaret leaves her daughter, Elizabeth Sposito of Scottsdale, AZ and her son, Edward Wetzel (Gina) to honor her memory.

1950

Bruce Bastian, 95, of Conroe, Texas, on February 15. He attended Coe College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. From 1950-1957, he served in the U.S Air Force, reaching the rank of Captain while earning a Master of Science degree in Organic Chemistry from University of Minnesota. After completing his service, he earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from University of California in 1960. Bruce spent the next 30 years with various divisions of Shell Oil. where he was a research chemist, technical manager and environmental advisor until retiring in 1991. During his tenure with Shell, he authored 16 featured articles for prestigious scientific and industry journals, holds one chemical process U.S. Patent in his name, and was a co-author on five additional patents. Bruce is survived by his four children and three step-children.

Paul Bowlin, M.D. 94, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, on December 4, 2023. He enrolled in Coe College at the age of 16. Two years later, he transferred to the University Minnesota, where he completed his undergraduate training and attended medical school, graduating in 1953. He married Helen Joanne Rennell in 1955 and they eventually settled in the Twin Cities area. During thirty years of private practice, he specialized in internal medicine. He served on the clinical teaching staff of the University of Minnesota Medical School. He concluded his career at Fairview Hospital as Director of Medical Affairs and then as Director of Development for the Fairview Corporation until 1994 when Paul retired. Paul was preceded in death by his father, Paul Lewis Bowlin (1899-1977) and his mother, Esther Leona Bowlin (1900-1997). He is survived by his loving wife, Helen, by his children and their spouses, Mary Bowlin Steinberg and Daniel Steinberg (Novato, CA), John Bowlin and Mimi Staub Bowlin (Princeton, NJ) and David Bowlin and Joan Mason Bowlin (Edina, MN).

Kenneth “Ken” Erger, 98, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on March 8. He leaves behind a legacy as a beloved family man, a dedicated Navy veteran, and a pillar of his community. Ken is survived by his daughters, Linda (David) Swope of North Liberty, Sheryl (Mike) Rogers of San Diego, CA, Marla Wardell of Cedar Rapids; and son, Gary (Shelly) Erger of Cedar Rapids. Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Ginger. After graduating from high school in 1943, he enlisted in the Navy and served aboard the USS Intrepid during World War II. Following his discharge from the Navy in 1946, Ken pursued higher education at Coe College, where he graduated in 1950 and was a baseball letter winner. He married Georgianna Kofron in 1947 and dedicated 40 years to working as an insurance agent. He was well known in the Cedar Rapids community as his gentle demeanor and genuine interest in others allowed him to build lasting relationships wherever he went.

1952

Walter “Rocky” Daehler, 93, of Mendelein, Illinois, on December 20, 2023. Rocky received his Bachelor of Arts in piano performance from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA, his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Iowa State University and his MBA from University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh. Rocky proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1954 to 1956 including a deployment in Korea. Surviving is his wife of 61 years, Rosalie, children Walter “Rocky” (Laura) Daehler, Jr., Margaret M. (Douglas) Smidt and Daniel O. (Jessica) Daehler. 

Mary Kay Hurst Thompson, 93, of Coralville, Iowa, on February 15. She attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where she met the love of her life, Guerin Karl Thompson ’51. They were married on November 23, 1951, in Downers Grove, Illinois and made their home in the Cedar Rapids area. Mary Kay enjoyed being able to stay home with her children and attend their school activities. She loved to camp and fish with her family. Mary Kay is survived by her husband, Guerin, her son Mark (Pam) Thompson and her daughter Susan (Tom) Belger.

1953

Forrest “Frosty” Cobb, 92, of Graettinger, Iowa, on December 16. He graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. On August 3, 1952, he married Delores (Dee) Bristley of Conrad, Iowa. Frosty served in the US Air Force from 1954 to 1962, during which time they were stationed in several different cities across the United States and in Germany. After he was discharged, the family settled in Le Mars, Iowa, where Frosty taught 9th grade English for 25 years and coached junior high football and basketball before retiring in 1991. Left to cherish his memory are his three daughters and their husbands: Cindy and Mark Mammen of Sioux City, Iowa, Cay and Dee Jay Donlin of Orange City, Iowa and Carla and Brent Dyhrkopp of Graettinger, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dee Cobb, and two sons, Craig Cobb and Kyle Cobb.

1954

Stephen “Steve” Towle, 91, of Wayzata, Minnesota, on January 14. Steve grew up in Winnetka, Illinois, and graduated from New Trier High School. He furthered his education through the ROTC program at Coe College, Cedar Rapids, IA. A distinguished pilot, Steve served in the U.S. Air Force and earned the rank of 1st Lieutenant. His passion for aviation continued with a 33-year career as a pilot, ranking among the top 70 for Northwest Airlines. His confident, proactive nature not only made him a top-notch pilot but also a family member and friend who supported and uplifted others, as evidenced by his generosity during tough times. Steve is preceded in death by his first spouse, Alice F. Towle, and is survived by his beloved spouse of 46 years, Janet “Stevie” Gilbert; his children, Steve (Margaret), Jeff (Kate), Barry (Debra) and four step-children.

1955

James Bruton, 90, of Saint Charles, Missouri, on December 16, 2023. He was the loving husband of Mary Ann Bruton for 61 years and devoted father of Eric Bruton and Scott Bruton. He earned a BA from Coe College and an MA in music education from Vandercook College of Music.  He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force.  He taught instrumental music in Hobart Township, IN and the Pattonville School District (MO), for which he taught 33 years before retiring in 2001.  

Mary Dewey Hamilton, 91, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on March 16. Mary graduated from high school in Highland Park, IL and Coe College in Cedar Rapids. She was united in marriage to James “Jim” Hamilton ’56 on August 4, 1956, and was a teacher in the Cedar Rapids Schools. She was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Cedar Rapids for over thirty years. Mary was also active in DAR and P.E.O. Survivors include her daughter Susan (Tim) Horne and son Tom (Karen) Hamilton. Preceding her in death were her husband Jim in 2022 and son Robert.

Judith Robinson Marron, 90, of Arlington Heights, Illinois, on December 10. She began school in Peoria, Illinois where the family moved before settling in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. At Franklin High School there, she acted in many plays and her photograph was on the cover of the national Thespian magazine when she was the lead in “I Remember Mama.” Judy won a complete scholarship to Coe College and joined Delta Delta Delta sorority. In her freshman year she met the love of her life, Henry “Hank” Riddle Marron, an ROTC student at the University of Iowa, and they married on August 24, 1952. Her beloved husband Hank preceded her in death. Judy is survived by her daughter Elizabeth, her daughter Mary and her son Henry.

Fifi Thomas Psihogios, 89, of Lake Oswego, Oregon, on December 21, 2023. Iphigenia (Fifi) was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and teaching certificate from Coe College. She was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority and President of her ΚΔ chapter at Coe. Upon graduation from Coe in 1955, Fifi was married to her beloved Peter Psihogios, and they were together for 56 years until he passed in 2011. Professionally, she was an educator and business owner. For over 40 years, she worked side-by-side with her husband, owning and operating Andrews Furniture Galleries in Lake Oswego, Oregon. A lifelong member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Fifi was a woman of faith and proud of her Greek heritage. Her husband Peter preceded her in death. Fifi is survived by her daughter Mari Lou P. Diamond and son George P. Psihogios (Lisa).

1957

Rev. William Harnish, 91, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 22. Born in Cedar Rapids, Bill went to seminary school at the University of Dubuque in Dubuque, Iowa. He also went to Coe College in Cedar Rapids. While in college he was in the ROTC. He was a self-employed wedding chapel minister and participated in pulpit exchanges all over the world. Bill also dedicated countless hours working with prisoners and victims of substance abuse. He received a personal invite to the White House by President Eisenhower to be a delegate for the Conference on Children & Youth. Bill officiated countless funerals for those without a church home in Linn, Benton and Johnson Counties. Survivors include his children, John Harnish of Cedar Rapids, Debbie “Case” (Chuck Kentis) Harnish-Kentis of Woodland Hills, California, Joseph Harnish, Cathy Harnish and Peggy Harnish, all of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren, Avery, Noah, Jacob, Jordan, and Paige Harnish 2011.

Curtis Hoeppner, 89, of Machesney Park, Illinois, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024. Curtis enjoyed basketball and baseball, playing both in high school and college. He was also a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity at Coe College. Curtis was married to his wife Gayle Greenman for 64 years.  He worked for the Harlem School District for 27 ½ years as the Business Manager before retiring. Additionally, he was a member of the 32nd Degree Mason and Shriners for years. Curtis is survived by his wife, Gayle and sons Craig (Ifeoma )Hoeppner and Eric (Suzanne) Hoeppner. 

Dennis Moffatt, 89, of Wheaton, Illinois, on March 1. He grew up in Garner, Iowa, and attended Garner High, where he was on the wrestling, baseball and football teams. Dennis went to Coe College earning his BA in Business Administration in 1957 and played running back for the 1957 Coe College Championship Football team. After receiving his degree, he served in the US Army from 1957-1959. Dennis attended the University of Iowa graduate school from 1959-1961, where he met his future wife, Donna Lee Stanerson. For 32 years, Dennis was the Product Management Department Chief for Western Electric/AT&T. Dennis is survived by his wife of 63 years and children Scott (Cozette) Moffatt, Lynlee (Tony) Moffatt Yager and Michael (Roxane) Moffatt.

1958

Kevin Jeffery, 87, of Golden, Colorado, on March 12. He grew up in Oxford Mills, Iowa and graduated from Coe College in 1958 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. While at Coe, he participated in ROTC and upon graduation entered the Air Force pilot training program. He met his wife, Carole Freeman ’60, while attending Coe. He proudly served 25 years in the Air Force with 10 years active duty, flying refueling tankers in the Vietnam conflict. He joined the Air National Guard unit at O’Hare in Chicago and continued flying tankers for another 15 years. He retired from service in 1984 as Lt. Colonel. He then worked for United Airlines for 27 years. Kevin is survived by his wife, Carole, their children; Andrea Jeffery of Ringwood, Illinois, Curtis Jeffery and wife Amy (Supik) of Lafayette, Colorado; and daughter-in-law, MaryBeth (Boch) Jeffery, San Jose, California. Preceding him in death was son, Bruce Freeman Jeffery, and his parents, Harold and Ethel Jeffery.

1960

Jill McArthur Nordyke, 85, of Savage, Minnesota, on March 13. Jill enrolled at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA where she was a proud member of Alpha Xi Delta Sorority. While working in Iowa, Jill met the love of her life, Jim Nordyke, on a blind date. In 1961, they married and ultimately established their home with their 3 children in Thiensville, WI. Jill took her creative passion and attended MATC in 1982-1984 where she earned her A.A.S. Degree in Interior Design. Jill is survived by her children Julie (Nordyke) Joint, Jeff Nordyke and Karin and her husband Shawn Mingus, all of the Minneapolis area. She is preceded in death by her husband and best friend of 59 years, James Nordyke.

Nancy Peterson Snyder, 85, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on January 31. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Coe College in 1959. While at Coe she was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority, for which she later served as an alumni advisor and hosted rush parties at her home. She passed the TriDelta legacy on to both of her daughters, Julie and Amy, as well as to her granddaughter, Kelsey Staub 2014. Consistent with her playful spirit, she also belonged to a Secret Society of Witches at Coe. Following a marriage proposal serenade from a young soldier-turned-lawyer beneath her apartment window, Nancy married the love of her life, James “Jim” Snyder on December 30, 1960. Nancy enjoyed teaching elementary school until choosing to dedicate herself to her family and volunteering. She is survived by her son, Dr. Peter Snyder (Christina Bohannan) of Iowa City, IA; daughter, Julie Lake (Kevin Lemon) of Urbandale, IA; and daughter, Amy Scott (Dave) of McKinney, TX. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim.

William “Bill” Steadman, 90, of Marion, Iowa, on March 7. After high school graduation in 1952, he attended Coe College, subsequently enlisting in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, working as a fleet mechanic. After an honorable discharge, he re-enrolled at Coe College, graduating with his BA. Bill taught at Oxford Junction for a couple of years and then enrolled at the University of Iowa from 1963-1964 where he earned an MA in Guidance and Counseling. After working at Central City High School for a year, he was hired by Vernon Middle School as a Guidance Counselor, finally retiring from there in 1997. It was at the University of Iowa where Bill met the love of his life, Muriel “Mimi” M. Rundquist. They were united in marriage in 1964. Surviving family includes wife, Muriel; children Jana (Kirk) Jones and Casey Steadman.

1961

John “Dan” Haerle, 86, of Denton, Texas, on March 2. Dan grew up in a musical family, which laid the foundation for his lifelong passion, as he began learning the piano and performing at a young age. After graduating from high school in 1955, Dan earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Coe College and a master’s degree in music composition from North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas). What followed was a career that spanned over six decades and included significant contributions as both a musician and educator. As a composer and performer, Dan was fortunate enough to perform all over the world during his career. Dan did extensive recording and show work in Dallas, Miami Beach and New York, and his compositions and arrangements became standards in the jazz repertoire. He worked with jazz legends Clark Terry, Pat Metheny, Stan Kenton, Mel Torme, Jamey Aebersold, Al Jarreau, Dave Liebman, Woody Shaw, Kai Winding, Chris Connor and Freddie Hubbard. As an educator, Dan began his career teaching elementary, middle and high school bands in What Cheer, Iowa. He then taught at Kansas State University Manhattan, Monterey Peninsula College, University of Miami Coral Gables and Arizona State University before landing at the University of North Texas in 1977. Alongside his UNT colleagues such as Leon Breeden, Ed Soph, Jack Petersen, Neil Slater, Mike Steinel, Jim Riggs and Fred Hamilton, Dan was instrumental in developing the UNT jazz studies program. He taught jazz piano, jazz fundamentals, advanced jazz improvisation, jazz MIDI, graduate jazz improvisation, rhythm section master class, supervised the jazz chamber music program, directed the jazz strings, created a keyboard ensemble called The Zebras and taught courses in basic MIDI theory, sequencing and jazz notation. Dan was a faculty member in the jazz studies division of the College of Music at the University of North Texas for 25 years, was appointed regents professor in 1992 and professor emeritus in 2007 after his retirement. Dan was on the forefront of jazz education. He authored essential texts on jazz education such as The Jazz Language, and enjoyed a long and productive association with Jamey Aebersold’s Summer Combo Workshops. Dan wrote and recorded countless Aebersold playalongs and was an active jazz clinician nationally and internationally. Along with Jamey Aebersold, Jerry Coker and David Baker, Dan created new approaches to jazz improvisation that are today the mainstays of jazz education throughout the world. He also taught at many other jazz camps over the years, including the Janice Borla Vocal Jazz Camp and the Stan Kenton Jazz Camp. Dan’s impact on the jazz community is profound and far-reaching, with former students and colleagues consistently praising his mentorship, musicianship, kindness and unwavering support. Dan was inducted into the International Association of Jazz Educators (IAJE) Hall of Fame and the Jazz Education Network (JEN) LeJENd of Jazz Education. But more importantly, Dan will be remembered for his incredible mind, kind heart, warm hugs, love of great puns and bad jokes and the overall desire to make the world a better place. He loved great food, a good gin and tonic and especially ice cream. Dan loved his wife Jill and their many kitty cats over the years. He was immensely proud of his daughter Darin and all of her accomplishments, particularly her two wonderful children. He is survived by his wife of 36 years Jill Haerle, daughter Darin (Ryan) Heimlich and grandchildren, Lincoln Daniel and Harper Elizabeth.

1962

Ronald Kozemczak, 83, of Midlothian, Virginia, on January 28. Ron is survived by his daughter Jeanine Kromer, son Gary Kozemczak and their mom Joanne Paveglio ’64. He was an avid Chicago sports fan who grew up on Chicago's Northwest Side. He then enrolled at Coe College where he played baseball and football and met his future wife Joanne. He went on to obtain a Master's degree in Economics from Northern Illinois University. Ron worked as teacher and coach at South Shore and Fenger High Schools on the South Side of Chicago.

Claude Post, 84, of Belmond, Iowa, on February 13. Following high school graduation, he worked at a local gas station and met his future wife Beverly Ann Benson when she came for gas in her car.  They were married on December 20, 1958 and were together for 62 years. Claude attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids and received his bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1962.  While at Coe he played football as a quarterback. After college he and Bev moved several times before settling in Belmond, where he taught high school government and coached football and track. Claude coached from 1962-1988 and was honored to enter the Iowa Football Coaches Hall of Fame.  He also officiated boys and girls basketball from 1964-1991. In 2010 he was inducted into the Iowa Girls Coaches Association Officials Hall of Fame. Claude retired from teaching in 1998. His memory lives on in the hearts of his children, son Scott (Kim) Post of Indianola; daughter Julie (Kevin) Eekhoff of Le Mars; son Gregory (Pam) Post of Spirit Lake; son Geoffrey (Sarah) Post of Lincoln, Nebraska. Claude is preceded in death by his wife.

Walter Ritter, 84, of Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, on March 22. Walter graduated from Springfield High School and Coe College. In 1987, Walter received the Alumni Award of Merit from Coe. He received a banking degree from Stonier School of Banking, Rutgers, and he served in the U.S. Army Reserves. Walt rose very early every morning, looking forward to the day. During his lifetime Philadelphia banking career, beginning at Girard Trust Corn Exchange Bank, he ran five miles before heading to the office. He was approached in 1982 to take over the fledgling Broad Street Run. His seven-year leadership as chairman helped make it the Cancer-Society-sponsored success it is today with now a limit of 40,000 runners. Walt made friends wherever he went. His friend and family times were built around Eagles games, beach vacations and trips to New York City for fine art, opera and jazz concerts. He would need another lifetime to listen to all of his jazz CDs. His love of art led Walt and his wife Linda to museums in Italy, Paris and London. They toured the National Parks with their young children and, in later years, returned to day-hike in Yosemite and the Canadian Rockies. He also enjoyed a quiet evening on the deck with Linda enjoying the view of her gardens and the woods beyond. He is survived by his wife, Linda Whitesell Ritter; their three children, Greg (Kristine), Ben (Stacie) and Amy (Joe) Adamski, and five grandchildren.

Gary Svec, 83, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 22. He graduated from Cedar Rapids Jefferson High School and Coe College with degrees in business and psychology in 1962. Gary was united in marriage to Judy Presson on November 18, 1962. He worked at Rockwell Collins and General Electric, where he was proud to be a part of the Apollo, Mercury, Gemini and Saturn Programs in conjunction with NASA. Gary also worked at Control Data Corp NSA and Northland Financial for many years. He completed his working career at Lefebure, Van Meter and Nordstrom. Gary was a gemologist working in the family business, Iowa Diamond Tool Company and Royal Jewelers. He was a member of the El Kahir Shrine. Gary is survived by his wife Judy; his children Michelle (Dennis) Greif and Deborah Aarhus.

Jan Schwank Van Slyke, 83, of Juneau, Alaska, on March 16. She grew up in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. She was a Delta Delta Delta sorority sister and graduated from Coe College in 1962. She was living in Missoula with her three children when friends set her up with Bob “Robert” Van Slyke. They were smitten. With him in Alaska, they enjoyed a long distance romance until they married in 1979 and moved to Juneau in 1980. She worked as a special education teacher until her retirement. She lost her daughter Rene Pisel Walker in 2013 and husband Bob in 2021. She is survived by children, stepchildren and their partners: Bob Jr. Van Slyke (Juneau), Lori Van Slyke (Olympia), David Walker (Eugene), Scott Pisel and wife Kay (Australia), Elizabeth Pisel Davis and husband Roblin (Juneau).

1963

Bernard “Bernie” Brown, 83, of Swisher, Iowa, on December 26, 2023. He graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1959, where he earned Second Team All State football honors as a 145-pound guard. Bernie attended Coe College before serving in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1965 on the U.S.S. Everglades. He went on to obtain his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Illinois State University. After college, he worked as a junior high school teacher and coach in Rochester, Il. Bernie was married to Nancy (Dorr) Brown for 56 years, having been united in marriage on March 19, 1967, in Vandalia, Il. In 1970, Bernie entered the Federal Bureau of Investigation and worked as a special agent for 23 years until his retirement in 1994. Survivors include his wife, Nancy Brown of Swisher; son, David (Katie) Brown of Norwalk, Iowa.

Cynthia Jobling Grubb, 82, of Austin, Texas, on March 1. She was born December 21, 1941 in Wilmington, Delaware and remained proud of her home state throughout her life. She was also a proud alumni of Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where she was a member of Kappa Delta. She enjoyed a long career in both education and later working in libraries in the children’s departments. She had a great passion for both of these and enjoyed helping children. She is survived by her son Geoffrey William Grubb of Austin, Texas. 

1965

Jon Duerr, 81, of Saint Charles, Illinois, on February 13. Jon earned a master's degree in biology with emphasis in ecology from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb and a bachelor's degree in biology from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It was at Coe where he met Joy Arima and the two were married in 1966. His career began as an original member of the teaching staff at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove, where he taught biology from 1967 to 1972. In 1985, Jon took a position with the Kane County Forest Preserve District and served for nearly 20 years, as assistant superintendent, superintendent, director of field services, and executive director, before retiring in 2004. He is survived by the love of his life, Joy Arima Duerr.

Wanita Zumbrunnen, 90, of Saint Louis, Missouri, on February 19. She grew up on a farm near Coggon, Iowa. At the age of 30, Wanita began her many years of higher education at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1965. In 1971, Wanita received a Master of Arts degree in American and Russian Literature from Mills College in Oakland, California. She was awarded her Ph.D. in American and Russian Literature from the University of Iowa, Iowa City in 1986. Wanita was an accomplished poet who won numerous awards. She was an associate professor of English at Lindenwood University, a private university in St. Charles, Missouri. While teaching at Lindenwood, she was selected as a recipient of the prized Fulbright Scholar award to lecture on American Literature in Pakistan during the 1988-89 academic year. She was selected as a Fulbright Scholar again in 1991 and returned to Pakistan in 1992-1993. She also taught on military bases in Japan, Germany, Kosovo and Turkey for 14 years as part of the University of Maryland's Global Campus, thus seeing her love of teaching, literature, poetry and traveling come together simultaneously. She is survived by son Randy Kehrli of Edmond, Oklahoma and daughter, Julie Kehrli of Alexandria, Virginia.

1966

William “Bill” Wells, 79, of Friendsville, Tennessee, on January 3. Bill was born in West Plains, Missouri. Hematriculated to Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA where he made lifelong, lasting friendships with a substantive, yet fun-loving, cast of lovable goofballs. Bill played on the Coe basketball team that won the NCAA division II national championship in 1965. He played third base on the Coe baseball team and he quarterbacked his Lambda Chi Alpha intramural football team. In a small way Bill was a civil rights advocate. In 1965, the Coe College chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha pledged an African American student. For this decent deed, the national organization revoked their charter. Bill was president of the chapter at the time, made trips to Miami and KC, and got the decision reversed, making one of many small steps forward. His professional life started in the world of department stores, first with Dayton Hudson in Minneapolis, then to Strauss in Youngstown, and finally to Miller’s in his beloved Knoxville. He made a career shift to the wholesale side becoming a rep for Sealy then later Serta Mattress. He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Linda Kerr Wells of Friendsville; daughter Janeen Wells of Knoxville; and son John Wells and his wife Penny of Knoxville.

1967

William “Bill” Stern, 78, of Saint Louis, Missouri, on February 14. Bill is survived by his sons, David (Scooter) Stern, Edward Stern, and Peter Stern. He is predeceased by his wife of many years Laurie. Bill graduated from Coe College and Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He has held several positions at different banks such as at Mark Twain, Stern Brothers and Huntleigh Securities. Bill's life was full of his passions for golf, fishing, travel, and time with family & friends. He had many wonderful years traveling and loving life with his wife Laurie, especially trips to world class golf courses. They also wintered in Naples, Florida golfing and enjoying the sunny weather. Bill  was always ready with a smile and a joke for any occasion. He will be fondly remembered by all those who knew him.

1972

Gary Holub, 73, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on January 8. He enjoyed playing his guitar with his friend on the mandolin. He started playing the guitar when he was a young teenager and taught lessons from age 16, fondly remembered by many of his students. Gary graduated from Coe College in 1972 with a bachelor's degree in history.  He worked at Malone Music and then became the owner of the shop. He was very good at remembering all things related to music. In his later years, he loved to watch sports on T.V. His favorite teams were the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Bears and the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Gary married the love of his life, Mary just over a year ago who is left to honor his memory.

1973

Neal Augustine, 88, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on December 29, 2023. After finishing high school he entered the U.S. Army in 1955 and was discharged in 1957. He attended and graduated from Coe College and the University of Iowa, with degrees in business and engineering. On November 20, 1959, he married Mary Spears. He worked as an electrical engineer for Square D in Cedar Rapids, retiring in 1998 after 38 years of service. During the time he worked at Square D he also operated the family farm in Ainsworth, IA. Survivors include his children Julie (Randy) Thomas of Center Point and Jeff (Tammy) Augustine of Cedar Rapids. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Mary in 2002.

Lon C. Ewing, 72, of Bellevue, Nebraska, on June 15, 2023, in Bellevue, Nebraska. Lon graduated from Kennedy High School (Cedar Rapids, IA) in 1968 and from Coe College (Cedar Rapids, IA) in 1973 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree. Upon his graduation from Coe, Lon was immediately accepted into the United States Air Force Air Combat Command Heartland of America Band as a trumpet musician. After completing basic training at Lackland AFB in Texas, Lon was stationed at Offutt AFB in Nebraska. He married Roseanne Hatt (’75) on June 14, 1975, and they made their home in Nebraska. Lon remained in his role as a trumpet musician until retiring in 1994 (except for one year when he taught instrumental music in the Nishna Valley Community Schools in Hastings, IA). During his Air Force career, Lon performed on trumpet in various ensembles for military ceremonies and other official functions, embodying the excellence and professionalism of the Strategic Air Command and the United States Air Force for millions of listeners via radio, television, and live engagements in thousands of community relations performances across the country and the world. Lon received the Air Force Commendation Medal in 1986 and the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal in 1994. Lon’s military retirement records state that “Throughout his tenure with the concert band, he demonstrated a thorough knowledge and execution of varying musical styles. In the solemn arena of funeral details, he brought the grace and dignity that is necessary to pay the highest respect and honor to fallen heroes. He consistently exceeded expectations as lead and solo trumpet player in the Noteables show band. Featured on virtually every performance, his soloing abilities resulted in tremendous applause and critical acclaim. His expertise in this idiom has been unmatched.” After retiring from the Air Force, Lon earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science from Bellevue University (Bellevue, NE) in 1998 and was employed by the Bellevue (Nebraska) Public Schools as a Computer Specialist until he retired in 2017. Lon enjoyed the freedom that retirement gave him to perform with a variety of ensembles in the Omaha metro area that included big bands, brass quintets, rock/swing bands, and symphony orchestras. He loved spending time with his two sons and his seven grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Roseanne; his children, Eric (Sarah) and Bryan (Janna DeHart); seven grandchildren (Lily, Isaac, Nathan, Matthew, Violet, Jackson, and Daniel); and a large extended family.  Lon was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis Edward Ewing and Louise Grace Ewing; and an infant son, Lonny Eric Ewing. He is greatly missed by his family, friends, and community.

1978

James Barr, 67, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 28. James is survived by his son, Jason (Sivi Power) Stepanek of Cedar Rapids. James was born in Chicago and graduated from Holy Cross High School, Chicago, and Coe College. While at Coe, James played football and was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He worked as a carpenter for many years and dedicated his time to coaching at the CR Boxing Club. James had a passion for boxing and had pursued it professionally. He enjoyed fishing, playing bar bingo, telling jokes and was very handy with woodworking. 

1980

Karen Henrink Holloman, 65, of Rye, New York, on December 8, 2023. She graduated in 1980 from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where she was selected as Outstanding Senior Woman. In 1982, she received her MBA degree from the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. She also met the love of her life Bob Holloman, and they married in Iowa in 1984. She had a lifelong love of sports and was a marathon runner and black diamond skier. She avidly followed the Chicago Cubs and later the New York Yankees. Karen had an illustrious career including Budget Director for Rush Medical Center in Chicago and healthcare consulting in New York. While living in Australia, she worked as an education advisor in the U.S. Consulate assisting Australian students applying to U.S. colleges and universities. Karen is survived by husband Bob, her sons Troy (Julia Barth), Jamie (Mary) and Rob.

1985

Craig Wright, 72, of Lakewood, Colorado, on January 20. He was born in Iowa City and was raised near Marion. Craig attended Coe College and went on to proudly serve as a member of the St. Luke's Hospital Cardiac Surgical Team until his retirement. Craig will be remembered for his playful nature, love of his daughters, pride in his work, and his complete adoration of his grandchildren. Craig is survived by his daughters Megan (Andrew) Drysdale, Erin (Seth) Kelly, and Kaitlin (Aleem) Jamal. 

1987

James “Jim” Dostal, 59, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on January 3. Jim graduated from Jefferson High School in 1982 and was an All-Metro, All-Conference and All-State linebacker. During his playing career at Jefferson, he led the team to its only state playoff appearance in the last quarter century. In 1987, he was inducted into Jefferson Football Hall of Fame. During his playing career at Coe College, Jim was a key part of the first Coe team to advance to the NCAA Division III playoffs. He served as a team captain and earned third team All-American honors in 1986. Jim led the Coe defense with 53 solo tackles and was named the Eastern Iowa Male Athlete of the Year by the Cedar Rapids Sports Club. During his junior and senior seasons, he was voted the most valuable defensive player and named to the all-conference team both years. In 2003, he was inducted into the Coe College Athletic Hall of Fame. He married Amber Miller in 1996, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. After graduating from Coe College with his degree in teaching, Jim went on to earn his master’s degree in educational leadership in 2002 and doctorate in educational leadership and administration in 2012 from the University of Northern Iowa. He started his teaching career in Kirkwood, Missouri, in 1987. He continued teaching social studies at his alma mater, Jefferson High School, where he was voted the most influential teacher multiple years. He coached football and track at Jefferson High School, leading the football team to their second most successful season in school history in 1992. Jim coached football at Prairie High School for eight years and at Coe College for nine years. Jim enjoyed traveling, teaching, coaching, working outside and spending time with his family. Jim left an everlasting impact to all those he taught and met. He is survived by his wife Amber Dostal, his father Charles Dostal and his brother Randy Dostal ’83.

1992

Jeffrey Randall, 52, of Marion, Iowa, on February 19. Survivors include his wife, Kristi, and stepdaughters, Latisha Knight and Cheyanne Carroll. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and graduated from Coe with a degree in history. On July 3, 2010, he married Kristi Cornell in Hiawatha, Iowa. Jeff worked as a Right Of Way Permit Technician for the City of Cedar Rapids for many years. He loved archiving obscure punk rock music, collected wrist watches and was an accomplished artist. Jeff was a kind and loving husband, dad and grandpa with a big heart.

1993

Sara Habeck Kannenberg, 52, of Jackson, Wisconsin, on December 17, 2023. She was born in Milwaukee and attended the University School of Milwaukee, graduating with the Class of 1989. She went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Art from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA. For a period of time, she worked as a processor with various mortgage companies. She went on to work for Ford Credit. Most recently, she put her painting talents to work for her as she started  GND Painting Services. Sara's competitive spirit and natural talents and abilities led her to figure skating. She was an accomplished skater, winning many awards over the years. She went on to become a beloved coach to many. On August 26, 2023, she was united in marriage to James Kannenberg. Survivors include her husband Jim and her son Robert Stanley Kucik of West Bend

2007

Mary Kay Novak McGrath, 67, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 23. She is survived by her husband, Pat; children, Lindsay McGrath-Vasquez (John), Gavin McGrath (Audrey) and Jaymie McGrath-Hobson (Anthony). Mary Kay was in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1973. In 1981, she bought a car from Pat, where she tried to negotiate cruise control in exchange for a date, and the rest is history. They got married in 1982. Mary Kay dedicated years to being a huge support system for Pat, her family and the community. She had a goal of getting her college degree and while juggling supporting the family business and being a mom to three very active children, she went on to get her associate degree from Kirkwood and completed her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Coe College in 2007. Mary Kay was deeply rooted in Cedar Rapids and her Czech heritage, and the Czech Village had a special place in her heart. In it, she developed several properties as her legacy to keep the area vibrant.

Faculty/Staff

Professor of English and National Fellowship Advisor Dr. Ann Mohr Struthers, 93, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 24. A lifelong learner and teacher, Ann was a poet, writer, professor, Fulbright Scholar, Malone Fellow, 25-year faculty member of Coe College and 60-year member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Morningside College and her master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop. In the late 1940s she met Mel Struthers at a Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF) gathering, and they married in 1952 and moved to Washington, D.C. where she began her teaching career in a middle school in Silver Spring, Maryland. Returning to her Iowa roots in the late 1950s, she became a committed advocate for higher education and equal rights. Ann carved out time to be a community volunteer as a Blue Bird leader, a Friendship Forum board member, a Pen Women International member and a cheerleader for her children’s music and sports events. She had exceptional baking skills, and her delectable brownies, chocolate chip cookies and homemade bread were savored by the lucky recipients. Ann loved to travel, and was thrilled with family trips with Mel to Lily Cottage in Spirit Lake, Iowa, and biannual Mohr family reunions at the Y camp in Estes Park, Colorado. In 1997, she was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship and spent two years in Aleppo, Syria, teaching American Literature at the University of Aleppo. Her chapbook, “Aleppo Burning,” illuminates her time in the Middle East before the Syrian Civil War. Subsequently, she was awarded a second Fulbright Fellowship in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Her chapbook of poetry, “The Kindness of Crocodiles,” explores the magic lives of animals of Sri Lanka. In recent months she completed and was actively editing the memoir of her years in Syria with the working title “Ann of Aleppo.” In 2013, Ann received the Kesler Outstanding Service Award from Coe College. She took her writing, teaching and parenting responsibilities seriously, loved her students fiercely and adored her colleagues, friends and family deeply. Ann is survived by her four children, John Struthers, Georgia Struthers (Tom Warmath), Charity Struthers and Mary Dittmer; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Computer System Director Jack Tripolino, 93, of Waverly, Iowa, on December 18, 2023. Jack graduated from Jesuit High School in 1948. Jack worked for Orleans Material until entering the United States Air Force in July 1949. In 1951, Jack was united in marriage to Marylou Colson at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado. He was honorably discharged in 1953 and resumed working for Orleans Material. For over 25 years, Jack then worked for Amana Refrigeration until 1982. His career continued at Coe College, Mt. Mercy University and then Cornell College before he retired in 1995. Jack was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Waverly, American Legion Post #76 in Marengo, Marengo Jaycees, Knights of Columbus and Catholic Layman’s Club of Cedar Rapids. He was privileged to be on an Honor Flight on September 17, 2013. Jack enjoyed bowling, golf, his Golden Retriever Bing and was an avid Hawkeye fan. Jack is survived by his loving wife of over 72 years, Marylou; three children, Mike (Judi) Tripolino, Steve (Gretchen) Tripolino and Mary Sue (Bruce) Ervans; five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.