Ames High School class of 1974 30th reunion group photo right side Class Photo #AmesHighClassof1974 #AHSClassPhoto #1974ClassPhoto #1974AHS30 #1974AHS30Sat
AHS Ames High School Alumni Assoc - Ames, IA
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Ames High School 1974 30th reunion class group photo right side. Saturday July 31, 2004 outside of Hickory Hall, Ames, IA.
row 1 Dan Strodtman, Mark Anderson, Barb (Mahlstede) Boyer, Holly (Thies) Anderson, Julie Landon Huisman, Susan Overturf Brayman, Toby Miller, Denise (Kepley) Wirth, Tom Wilson, Mark Dekovic, Bob Welshons
row 2 Kyanne (McCarley) Danowsky, Kristen (Fawcett) King, Melba (Smith) Olson, Lynn Schultz, Brita (Swenson) Meyer, Brad Meyer, Martha Peterson, Mary (Brady) Calistro, Kevin Hoff, Jon Dupler Blattert, Jim Swan
row 3 Mark Homer, Kristine (Pelz) Ellson, Ann (Kelso) Culver, Lisa Ladd, Peter Crump, Susan (Stephan) Holloway, Nancy (Sassaman) Lott, Teri (Hough) Engle, Kathy Schlung, Betty (Thompson) Grinde, Tracey Stoll, Chuck Dorr, Kathy (Reece) Farstad
row 4 Carla (Vondra) Anderson, Len Griffen, Joel Lowman, John Hanson, Vickie Sims Tabbot, Linda Deppe, Susan Chantland, Dave Morgan, Judy (Brink) Brown, Chris Lang, Linda Welch
row 5 (back row) Candy (Anderson) Matheson, Gregor Dougal, John Pantenburg, Gary Bornmueller, Randy Parish, Kirk Farrar, Jack Petersen, Tom Richert, Mark Barnett
Taken with Ed Hendrickson's Minolta DiMage 7 camera, that Ed handed to one of the spouse's that tagged along for the reunion. Ed Hendrickson gives permission to use this photo for non-profit AHS purposes only.
PICT1238 cropped
Since this photo was taken in July 2004 the Ames High School class of 1974 has lost 2 more beloved classmates
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John Pantenburg b. October 12, 1955 - d. August 3, 2015
Photo Tribute to John Pattenburg AHS 1974
Obituary from Omega Funeral & Cremation Service, Portland, Oregon:
John Pantenburg of Portland died the afternoon of August 3, 2015 due to complications of lung cancer. He was 59.
Born in Ames, Iowa on October 12, 1955, John was the youngest son of Richard and Dorothy and was raised by his mother and loving step-father, Frank. He graduated from Ames High in 1974 where he formed many lifelong friendships, reuniting with many of these friends just last October at an impromptu class reunion.
In his 20's, John moved to Colorado where he worked as a salesman. A natural people-person, John's amiable personality put those around him at ease, customers and new friends alike. In the mid 1990s, John followed his work to Portland, Oregon.
Here, he explored his new city on his beloved bicycle, making friends along the way. John met some of his closest friends, though, during his time at Mattress World. These close-knit coworkers, including Andy Layne and many others, quickly became a second family to him. They supported each other through life's challenges and enjoyed the good times together, even attending a baseball game in Seattle earlier this year.
An avid sports fan, John loved the Chicago Bears, Kansas City Royals, and—after many years in the Pacific Northwest—even the Mariners. His favorite athletes, however, were his great niece Kristin and great nephew, Kellen. For as long as he was able, John was a fixture at the kids' futsal, soccer, basketball, baseball, and softball games. Always encouraging, after each game he asked, have fun? This simple gesture embodied John's easy-going nature and love for his family.
John will be lovingly missed by his mother, Dorothy Ward of Ames, Iowa; his brothers James (Kathy) of Ames, Iowa and Thomas (Kathie) of Littleton, Colorado; his nieces Danelle (Aaron) Isenhart of Beaverton, Oregon and Leah (Marc) McClure of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his nephew Brett (Samantha) Pantenburg of Woodbury, Minnesota; and five great-grand nieces and nephews: Kristin and Kellen Isenhart, Anthony and Christian McClure, and Caitlynn Pantenburg.
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Pantenburg and step-father Ora Frank Ward.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a gift to Providence Hospice, who took wonderful care of John in his final days. Per John's request, there will be no formal memorial service, though friends are invited to celebrate John's life in ways meaningful to them.
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Jon Dupler Obituary
Jon L. (Dupler) Blattert 1955-2013
Jon L. Blattert, 57, a longtime resident of Newton, passed away March 28, 2013, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.
Jon was born Sept. 29, 1955, in Athens, Ohio, the son of Robert and Brit Blattert.
On July 28, 1978, Jon was married to Ginny Blattert. They made their home in Carroll, Iowa, from 1979 to 1982. Their first daughter, Sarah, was born there Dec. 10, 1979. In 1982, they moved to Ames, Iowa, where their second daughter, Rachel, was born Dec. 15, 1982. Their third daughter, Rebecca, was born Oct. 17, 1989, in Ames. On June 19, 1991, Jon and Ginny moved to Newton. They met at McDonald’s in 1977 and bought the Newton store in 1991.
Jon devoted his life to his family and friends. He was a kind and generous man and will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, spending time with family and friends, hanging out with his grandchildren, telling stories, playing jokes and helping others. He had many fun family trips to Okoboji with the Grinstead family. Jon was involved in various organizations, including Elks and Ronald McDonald House.
Those left to honor Jon’s memory include his wife, Ginny of Newton; his parents Robert and Brit Blattert of Newton; his daughters; Sarah (Adam) Bormann of Norwalk; Rachel (Adam) Ogden of Des Moines; and Rebecca (T.J.) Decker of Newton; his four grandchildren Madison Ogden, Maximus Ogden, Oliver Bormann and Gabriel Decker.
Visitation with the family will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday, April 1, 2013, at Cardinal Hills (formerly Newton Country Club) in Newton, Iowa. Private family services are planned. Pence-Reese Funeral Home in Newton has been entrusted with the arrangements. Memorials are being designated in Jon’s name and may be sent to the funeral home.
Online condolences may be left at www.pencefh.com.
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AHS Ames High School Class of 1974 Alumni
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Kirk Lewis Farrar Obituary
Kirk Farrar Obituary
February 8, 1956 - November 15, 2019
Kirk Lewis Farrar age, 63 of Ames, Iowa died on November 15, 2019 at the Israel Family Hospice House. A gathering of friends and family will be 10:30 a.m. to Noon Friday, November 22 at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, Ames; with the burial immediately following at Ames Municipal Cemetery Ames, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Farrar.
Kirk was born on February 8, 1956 in Lincoln, NE to Ralph and Mary Jo (Dunbar) Farrar. He graduated from Ames High School (1974) and the University of Iowa in Communications. Kirk was always a salesman working in several different fields from office supplies to cars and finally to food service. He loved his family, eating, and his pets with his whole heart. He charmed many a person with his smile, laugh, and easy manner. All the while, combatting Parkinson's, a chronic disease that ravaged his body for the last 26 years of his life.
Kirk is survived by his mother, Mary Jo Farrar, brothers, Kelley (Kim) Farrar, Kris (Jennifer) Farrar, nephews Sean (Sarah) Farrar and Nate Farrar. He was also adored by his great nieces and nephews, Marvin, Hunter, Aaliyah, Bozena, EmmaLee and Micah.
His celebration of life will be a Munchie-walkabout for friends, family, and assorted people that were charmed by his smile and honored his fight for life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation for funeral services.
Online condolences may be directed to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com
www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com/obituary/338072/Ki...
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Julie Ann (Landon) Huisman Obituary
Julie Huisman Obituary
Julie Landon Obituary
May 31 1956 - July 23 2021
Ames - Julie Ann (Landon) Huisman, 65, of Ames, passed away on Friday, July 23, 2021 at her home.
Friends may call from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at First United Methodist Church, 516 Kellogg Ave., Ames, Iowa. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, July 30, 2021 at the church. All who knew and loved Julie are welcome and invited to attend. For those who are not able to travel, the service will be available to watch through a live stream on the Tribute Wall of Julie's obituary on the Adams Funeral Home website or www.fumcames.com.
Julie was the daughter of Keith and Ellen Landon, of Ames. She was born at Mary Greeley Medical Center on May 31, 1956. She grew up in Ames and graduated from Ames High School in 1974. Julie graduated from Iowa State University, where she completed a Bachelor of Science Degree in Labor and Industrial Relations, a degree program she customized, and was a proud member of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, serving as President twice. She went on to earn her Master of Science Degree in Adult Learning, Development and Performance from Drake University in 2008, and was very proud to have earned a 4.0 GPA while working full-time and raising her three kids. Julie also had a passion for continued growth and learning, and completed her International Coach Federation Certification in Business and Executive Coaching at The University of Texas at Dallas - School of Management in 2008.
Julie was a passionate person, but she felt most strongly about her beloved husband Tom. They were college sweethearts and dated for eight years before marrying in Ames at the United Church of Christ on April 3, 1982. Tom and Julie had a vibrant marriage for the 38 years they were blessed to share on this earth. Julie was broken-hearted to watch her husband's three-year cancer battle come to an end with his passing on July 26, 2020.
Julie's other great loves in her life were her three remarkable children, Kevin, Melissa and Karina. As she often told them, she loved her children to the moon and back, and everyone who knew her knew how incredibly proud she was to be their Mom.
Her first born and only son, Kevin Charles, held a soft spot in her heart. She was immensely proud of the man he has become and the devoted father he is to his daughter Bianca. Julie loved how highly regarded and beloved Kevin was in his career. She was grateful for the many ways he stepped into the role as the "man of the family" since Tom's passing in July of 2020. Julie also raved about his home-cooked meals and loved when he would fire up the grill for family dinners.
Melissa Kay, her second-born, was her bright and shining Mel Star. She saw so much of herself in her daughter, and championed her aspirations to follow in her mom's footsteps by starting a big, beautiful life in Texas at a young age. Julie loved Melissa's creativity and singing voice, and thought her writing was pretty special. She was proud of her daughter's "big brain" and her many professional and academic achievements. Most of all, Julie was in awe of Melissa's faith in God, strength of heart, and wisdom beyond her years.
The adoption of her baby girl Karina Ann from Novokuznetsk, Russia, was a highlight of her life, and Julie adored her youngest daughter. Julie was so proud of Karina's resilience and strength, and loved watching her "baby" become a mother on December 6, 2020 to Ellen Kathy-Marie, her second granddaughter. She counted it an incredible honor to help plan Karina and Mark's wedding on July 25, 2020, and was so grateful for the wonderful husband Karina found in Mark, and son-in-law she added to her family. Karina always knew how to make her mom laugh the hardest of anyone, and they shared many special silly moments.
Not to be forgotten, Julie considered her fur babies Coco Bear and the late Bandit Jo a part of the family and her very best friends.
Family was everything to Julie, and celebrations were plentiful among the Landon and Huisman families. From holidays, to birthdays and weekly pool parties, she cherished getting to live close to her extended family in Ames for the last years of her life.
Julie was whip-smart, incredibly interested in people, and highly ambitious, attributes she channeled into her successful 37-year career in Human Resources. She was very proud of her accomplishments in her professional life, as were all who knew her. Upon her graduation from Iowa State, Julie moved south to begin her career at Phillips Petroleum Company in Borger, Texas. She held numerous roles in HR with Phillips 66 in Borger, Texas, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Stavanger, Norway, Caracas, Venezuela and Maracaibo, Venezuela. Julie was thrilled at the opportunity to work as an expatriate, immersed in global cultures, where she mastered the Norwegian and Spanish languages. Julie and Tom both retired from Phillips in 2000 and moved to Ames to be closer to their extended family.
Upon her return to Ames, Julie worked as the Human Resources Director for the Iowa State Foundation for two years. Her final career stop was at the City of Ames, where she served as the Human Resources Director for over 11 years. She was very proud to work at City Hall, in the same building as her late mother, Ellen Landon, who was a beloved Public Information Officer for the City of Ames for many years.
Julie retired from the City of Ames in 2015 to shift her focus and energy towards her family. She devoted her time in retirement to supporting her mother Ellen until her passing in 2019, and her husband Tom in his difficult cancer battle. She and Tom were looking forward to retiring in a beautiful home they built together in The Villages, Florida. Most recently, Julie was excited to transition into a new home in Ames with a pool area she named the Huisman Hibiscus Haven.
Volunteerism was an important aspect of Julie's life, and she loved to serve her community. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church for 21 years, and served on the Staff Parish Relations Committee. Julie maintained a close connection to her beloved Alpha Delta Pi Sorority at Iowa State, serving both as the Chapter Advisor and the House Corps Board President for many years. Julie also served on the board at Youth and Shelter Services in Ames. She was proud to be a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of Ames, just like her late father, Keith Landon. Julie was affiliated with the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and had fond memories with many women in the organization.
Beyond her passions for her family and career, Julie had many hobbies and interests that fulfilled and enriched her life. At heart, she was an artist and creative soul. In her younger years, she was a talented pianist, seamstress, painter, and later in life, a prolific scrapbooker. Julie also had an eye for design, having originally started college as an Interior Design major. Though she never pursued a career in the field, she had a life-long passion for building, designing, and decorating her homes, all 13 of them!
Physical activity was important to Julie. She loved all water-related things: boating, skiing, swimming, and lake life. Every day was a new opportunity to achieve her goal of getting 10,000 steps. Julie loved to dance, and could often be seen embarrassing her kids with her latest dance moves.
Everyone who knew Julie could tell you about her impeccable style, and also her impeccable bargain shopping skills. During her working years, she could be seen in the most beautiful suits, but later in life she grew a sizable collection of leopard print items, which she called her "leopard-licious" clothing.
Julie was beloved by all who crossed her path. Whether long-time friend or stranger, she had a way of making people feel instantly known and loved. She would always remind her children to be two things with people: interesting, and interested. Julie was quick to ask a hundred questions, and was a lifelong interviewer. She cared deeply about the people in her life, and maintained a sizable social circle with friends across the globe. Julie and Tom prioritized social gatherings with dinner clubs, boating crews, and enjoyed hosting guests regularly at their lake houses.
Julie's life was guided by her rich Christian faith, and her personal relationship with Jesus. She loved to spend her mornings journaling, and documented all stages of her life in writing and reflection. Julie was passionate about the local church and serving God.
Left to cherish her memory are her three beloved children and their partners: Kevin Huisman of Ames, Iowa, Melissa Huisman of Austin, Texas and Karina and Mark Kendall of Fort Drum, New York. She had two beautiful granddaughters, Bianca Anne McConkey of Ogden, Iowa, and Ellen Kathy-Marie Kendall of Fort Drum, New York. Julie also leaves behind many members of her loving family –– her sister, Nancy Hemphill of Ames, Iowa; her nieces and their families: Becky, Aaron, Allison, and Jacob Rogers, of Ames, Iowa, and Katie, Nate, and Lincoln Molstad of Ankeny, Iowa; her mother-in-law, Joyce Huisman of Ames, Iowa; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda and Tom Thomas of Ames, Iowa, her brother-in-law and nephew, Ted and Nick Huisman of State Center, Iowa, and her sister-in-law and nephew, Laura and Grant Beckett of Everett, Washington.
Julie was predeceased by her beloved husband, Tom Huisman; her mother and father, Keith and Ellen Landon; her father-in-law Charles Huisman; and her brothers-in-law Monty Hemphill and Larry Beckett. We are sure she is thrilled to be reunited with them all.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Adams Funeral Home of Ames. Online condolences may be left for Julie's family at www.adamssoderstrum.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the First United Methodist Church of Ames. The family would like to thank all who knew and loved Julie and the Huismans for their unending support and love for their mother and family.
Obituary Posted online on July 27, 2021
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--- Mark Dekovic Obituary
Mark Dekovic passed away August 3, 2023 and it has left a hole in my heart. I have known Mark since Junior High School growing up in Ames, IA. He was a wonderful friend and classmate and we will all miss him so much.
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Mark C. Dekovic (Deke) Obituary
Age 67, of Crystal, Minnesota, passed away August 3, 2023, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Mark was born on May 31, 1956 in Chicago, IL, to Charles and Elaine Dekovic.
Most of Mark's childhood was spent trying to grow up in Ames, IA (some would say he never did). He attended Ames High School where he fell in love with the arts, especially theater and music. Mark reveled in the stage and performing, which he carried on throughout his life. Following high school, Mark went to work for Aunt Maude's restaurant in Ames where he developed his cooking skills that would later spare his wife from her own bland hot dishes and cans of SpaghettiOs. He continued his education at Iowa State University, pursuing his love of theater through countless performances in Stars Over VEISHA, Union Board Theater, and Memorial Union Resident Summer Theater (MURST). He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design in 1983.
After moving to Minneapolis in 1983, Mark enjoyed sharing his talents with the Minnesota Shakespeare Company and cooking at various restaurants around the city before starting at McKesson Corporation where he began his 30-year career working most recently as an E-commerce Web Designer. He exited stage left into retirement in September 2022 (because who doesn't love doing web design?). The overall enjoyment-quotient at McKesson dropped 75% when he retired as he was the go-to guy for fun at many company functions, hosting and entertaining during trade shows, United Way functions, banquets, and other events. When Mark walked into the room, everyone noticed!
In 1999, Mark married his co-star, Sue Johnson, who came with an award-worthy supporting cast of Kiernan and Karlyn. He brought his authentic zest for life and his passion for fun into their lives, for which they will be forever grateful. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and friend. His many hobbies included being an avid photographer, playing his collection of guitars, woodworking, the Chicago Bears, and spending time with family. He will be remembered for his hilarious sense of humor and his gentle kindness.
Mark is survived by his wife of 24 years, Sue; stepson Kiernan Johnson and stepdaughter Karlyn (David) Mlostek, one granddaughter Reagan Mlostek; his mother Elaine Dekovic, Ames, IA; siblings; Charles (Sara), Queens Creek, AZ; Jay (Dalila), Tabernash, CO; Lauren (Martin) Fenimore, Des Moines, IA; Julie Dekovic (Donald Duhon), Spring, TX; Elizabeth Catanesi (Deborah Walton), Nipomo, CA; 8 nephews, 3 grand-nieces, 4 grand-nephews and countless other family and friends. Preceded in death by his father, Charles W. Dekovic, Jr.
Many thanks to the nurses and doctors at Methodist Hospital and the Health Partners Frauenshuh Cancer Center for their compassion and humor. You truly are Heroes!
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 16th, 2023, at 3125 Virginia, Ave. North, Crystal, MN, from 1-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation at the following link: curecca.link/MarkDekovic
"All the world's a stage;
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances;
And one man in his time plays many parts..."
William Shakespeare (From As you Like it)
Posted online on August 09, 2023
Published in Ames Tribune
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Ames High School class of 1974 30th reunion group photo right side Class Photo #AmesHighClassof1974 #AHSClassPhoto #1974ClassPhoto #1974AHS30 #1974AHS30Sat
AHS Ames High School Alumni Assoc - Ames, IA
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Ames High School 1974 30th reunion class group photo right side. Saturday July 31, 2004 outside of Hickory Hall, Ames, IA.
row 1 Dan Strodtman, Mark Anderson, Barb (Mahlstede) Boyer, Holly (Thies) Anderson, Julie Landon Huisman, Susan Overturf Brayman, Toby Miller, Denise (Kepley) Wirth, Tom Wilson, Mark Dekovic, Bob Welshons
row 2 Kyanne (McCarley) Danowsky, Kristen (Fawcett) King, Melba (Smith) Olson, Lynn Schultz, Brita (Swenson) Meyer, Brad Meyer, Martha Peterson, Mary (Brady) Calistro, Kevin Hoff, Jon Dupler Blattert, Jim Swan
row 3 Mark Homer, Kristine (Pelz) Ellson, Ann (Kelso) Culver, Lisa Ladd, Peter Crump, Susan (Stephan) Holloway, Nancy (Sassaman) Lott, Teri (Hough) Engle, Kathy Schlung, Betty (Thompson) Grinde, Tracey Stoll, Chuck Dorr, Kathy (Reece) Farstad
row 4 Carla (Vondra) Anderson, Len Griffen, Joel Lowman, John Hanson, Vickie Sims Tabbot, Linda Deppe, Susan Chantland, Dave Morgan, Judy (Brink) Brown, Chris Lang, Linda Welch
row 5 (back row) Candy (Anderson) Matheson, Gregor Dougal, John Pantenburg, Gary Bornmueller, Randy Parish, Kirk Farrar, Jack Petersen, Tom Richert, Mark Barnett
Taken with Ed Hendrickson's Minolta DiMage 7 camera, that Ed handed to one of the spouse's that tagged along for the reunion. Ed Hendrickson gives permission to use this photo for non-profit AHS purposes only.
PICT1238 cropped
Since this photo was taken in July 2004 the Ames High School class of 1974 has lost 2 more beloved classmates
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John Pantenburg b. October 12, 1955 - d. August 3, 2015
Photo Tribute to John Pattenburg AHS 1974
Obituary from Omega Funeral & Cremation Service, Portland, Oregon:
John Pantenburg of Portland died the afternoon of August 3, 2015 due to complications of lung cancer. He was 59.
Born in Ames, Iowa on October 12, 1955, John was the youngest son of Richard and Dorothy and was raised by his mother and loving step-father, Frank. He graduated from Ames High in 1974 where he formed many lifelong friendships, reuniting with many of these friends just last October at an impromptu class reunion.
In his 20's, John moved to Colorado where he worked as a salesman. A natural people-person, John's amiable personality put those around him at ease, customers and new friends alike. In the mid 1990s, John followed his work to Portland, Oregon.
Here, he explored his new city on his beloved bicycle, making friends along the way. John met some of his closest friends, though, during his time at Mattress World. These close-knit coworkers, including Andy Layne and many others, quickly became a second family to him. They supported each other through life's challenges and enjoyed the good times together, even attending a baseball game in Seattle earlier this year.
An avid sports fan, John loved the Chicago Bears, Kansas City Royals, and—after many years in the Pacific Northwest—even the Mariners. His favorite athletes, however, were his great niece Kristin and great nephew, Kellen. For as long as he was able, John was a fixture at the kids' futsal, soccer, basketball, baseball, and softball games. Always encouraging, after each game he asked, have fun? This simple gesture embodied John's easy-going nature and love for his family.
John will be lovingly missed by his mother, Dorothy Ward of Ames, Iowa; his brothers James (Kathy) of Ames, Iowa and Thomas (Kathie) of Littleton, Colorado; his nieces Danelle (Aaron) Isenhart of Beaverton, Oregon and Leah (Marc) McClure of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his nephew Brett (Samantha) Pantenburg of Woodbury, Minnesota; and five great-grand nieces and nephews: Kristin and Kellen Isenhart, Anthony and Christian McClure, and Caitlynn Pantenburg.
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Pantenburg and step-father Ora Frank Ward.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a gift to Providence Hospice, who took wonderful care of John in his final days. Per John's request, there will be no formal memorial service, though friends are invited to celebrate John's life in ways meaningful to them.
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Jon Dupler Obituary
Jon L. (Dupler) Blattert 1955-2013
Jon L. Blattert, 57, a longtime resident of Newton, passed away March 28, 2013, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.
Jon was born Sept. 29, 1955, in Athens, Ohio, the son of Robert and Brit Blattert.
On July 28, 1978, Jon was married to Ginny Blattert. They made their home in Carroll, Iowa, from 1979 to 1982. Their first daughter, Sarah, was born there Dec. 10, 1979. In 1982, they moved to Ames, Iowa, where their second daughter, Rachel, was born Dec. 15, 1982. Their third daughter, Rebecca, was born Oct. 17, 1989, in Ames. On June 19, 1991, Jon and Ginny moved to Newton. They met at McDonald’s in 1977 and bought the Newton store in 1991.
Jon devoted his life to his family and friends. He was a kind and generous man and will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, spending time with family and friends, hanging out with his grandchildren, telling stories, playing jokes and helping others. He had many fun family trips to Okoboji with the Grinstead family. Jon was involved in various organizations, including Elks and Ronald McDonald House.
Those left to honor Jon’s memory include his wife, Ginny of Newton; his parents Robert and Brit Blattert of Newton; his daughters; Sarah (Adam) Bormann of Norwalk; Rachel (Adam) Ogden of Des Moines; and Rebecca (T.J.) Decker of Newton; his four grandchildren Madison Ogden, Maximus Ogden, Oliver Bormann and Gabriel Decker.
Visitation with the family will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday, April 1, 2013, at Cardinal Hills (formerly Newton Country Club) in Newton, Iowa. Private family services are planned. Pence-Reese Funeral Home in Newton has been entrusted with the arrangements. Memorials are being designated in Jon’s name and may be sent to the funeral home.
Online condolences may be left at www.pencefh.com.
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AHS Ames High School Class of 1974 Alumni
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Kirk Lewis Farrar Obituary
Kirk Farrar Obituary
February 8, 1956 - November 15, 2019
Kirk Lewis Farrar age, 63 of Ames, Iowa died on November 15, 2019 at the Israel Family Hospice House. A gathering of friends and family will be 10:30 a.m. to Noon Friday, November 22 at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, Ames; with the burial immediately following at Ames Municipal Cemetery Ames, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Farrar.
Kirk was born on February 8, 1956 in Lincoln, NE to Ralph and Mary Jo (Dunbar) Farrar. He graduated from Ames High School (1974) and the University of Iowa in Communications. Kirk was always a salesman working in several different fields from office supplies to cars and finally to food service. He loved his family, eating, and his pets with his whole heart. He charmed many a person with his smile, laugh, and easy manner. All the while, combatting Parkinson's, a chronic disease that ravaged his body for the last 26 years of his life.
Kirk is survived by his mother, Mary Jo Farrar, brothers, Kelley (Kim) Farrar, Kris (Jennifer) Farrar, nephews Sean (Sarah) Farrar and Nate Farrar. He was also adored by his great nieces and nephews, Marvin, Hunter, Aaliyah, Bozena, EmmaLee and Micah.
His celebration of life will be a Munchie-walkabout for friends, family, and assorted people that were charmed by his smile and honored his fight for life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation for funeral services.
Online condolences may be directed to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com
www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com/obituary/338072/Ki...
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Julie Ann (Landon) Huisman Obituary
Julie Huisman Obituary
Julie Landon Obituary
May 31 1956 - July 23 2021
Ames - Julie Ann (Landon) Huisman, 65, of Ames, passed away on Friday, July 23, 2021 at her home.
Friends may call from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at First United Methodist Church, 516 Kellogg Ave., Ames, Iowa. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, July 30, 2021 at the church. All who knew and loved Julie are welcome and invited to attend. For those who are not able to travel, the service will be available to watch through a live stream on the Tribute Wall of Julie's obituary on the Adams Funeral Home website or www.fumcames.com.
Julie was the daughter of Keith and Ellen Landon, of Ames. She was born at Mary Greeley Medical Center on May 31, 1956. She grew up in Ames and graduated from Ames High School in 1974. Julie graduated from Iowa State University, where she completed a Bachelor of Science Degree in Labor and Industrial Relations, a degree program she customized, and was a proud member of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, serving as President twice. She went on to earn her Master of Science Degree in Adult Learning, Development and Performance from Drake University in 2008, and was very proud to have earned a 4.0 GPA while working full-time and raising her three kids. Julie also had a passion for continued growth and learning, and completed her International Coach Federation Certification in Business and Executive Coaching at The University of Texas at Dallas - School of Management in 2008.
Julie was a passionate person, but she felt most strongly about her beloved husband Tom. They were college sweethearts and dated for eight years before marrying in Ames at the United Church of Christ on April 3, 1982. Tom and Julie had a vibrant marriage for the 38 years they were blessed to share on this earth. Julie was broken-hearted to watch her husband's three-year cancer battle come to an end with his passing on July 26, 2020.
Julie's other great loves in her life were her three remarkable children, Kevin, Melissa and Karina. As she often told them, she loved her children to the moon and back, and everyone who knew her knew how incredibly proud she was to be their Mom.
Her first born and only son, Kevin Charles, held a soft spot in her heart. She was immensely proud of the man he has become and the devoted father he is to his daughter Bianca. Julie loved how highly regarded and beloved Kevin was in his career. She was grateful for the many ways he stepped into the role as the "man of the family" since Tom's passing in July of 2020. Julie also raved about his home-cooked meals and loved when he would fire up the grill for family dinners.
Melissa Kay, her second-born, was her bright and shining Mel Star. She saw so much of herself in her daughter, and championed her aspirations to follow in her mom's footsteps by starting a big, beautiful life in Texas at a young age. Julie loved Melissa's creativity and singing voice, and thought her writing was pretty special. She was proud of her daughter's "big brain" and her many professional and academic achievements. Most of all, Julie was in awe of Melissa's faith in God, strength of heart, and wisdom beyond her years.
The adoption of her baby girl Karina Ann from Novokuznetsk, Russia, was a highlight of her life, and Julie adored her youngest daughter. Julie was so proud of Karina's resilience and strength, and loved watching her "baby" become a mother on December 6, 2020 to Ellen Kathy-Marie, her second granddaughter. She counted it an incredible honor to help plan Karina and Mark's wedding on July 25, 2020, and was so grateful for the wonderful husband Karina found in Mark, and son-in-law she added to her family. Karina always knew how to make her mom laugh the hardest of anyone, and they shared many special silly moments.
Not to be forgotten, Julie considered her fur babies Coco Bear and the late Bandit Jo a part of the family and her very best friends.
Family was everything to Julie, and celebrations were plentiful among the Landon and Huisman families. From holidays, to birthdays and weekly pool parties, she cherished getting to live close to her extended family in Ames for the last years of her life.
Julie was whip-smart, incredibly interested in people, and highly ambitious, attributes she channeled into her successful 37-year career in Human Resources. She was very proud of her accomplishments in her professional life, as were all who knew her. Upon her graduation from Iowa State, Julie moved south to begin her career at Phillips Petroleum Company in Borger, Texas. She held numerous roles in HR with Phillips 66 in Borger, Texas, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Stavanger, Norway, Caracas, Venezuela and Maracaibo, Venezuela. Julie was thrilled at the opportunity to work as an expatriate, immersed in global cultures, where she mastered the Norwegian and Spanish languages. Julie and Tom both retired from Phillips in 2000 and moved to Ames to be closer to their extended family.
Upon her return to Ames, Julie worked as the Human Resources Director for the Iowa State Foundation for two years. Her final career stop was at the City of Ames, where she served as the Human Resources Director for over 11 years. She was very proud to work at City Hall, in the same building as her late mother, Ellen Landon, who was a beloved Public Information Officer for the City of Ames for many years.
Julie retired from the City of Ames in 2015 to shift her focus and energy towards her family. She devoted her time in retirement to supporting her mother Ellen until her passing in 2019, and her husband Tom in his difficult cancer battle. She and Tom were looking forward to retiring in a beautiful home they built together in The Villages, Florida. Most recently, Julie was excited to transition into a new home in Ames with a pool area she named the Huisman Hibiscus Haven.
Volunteerism was an important aspect of Julie's life, and she loved to serve her community. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church for 21 years, and served on the Staff Parish Relations Committee. Julie maintained a close connection to her beloved Alpha Delta Pi Sorority at Iowa State, serving both as the Chapter Advisor and the House Corps Board President for many years. Julie also served on the board at Youth and Shelter Services in Ames. She was proud to be a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of Ames, just like her late father, Keith Landon. Julie was affiliated with the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and had fond memories with many women in the organization.
Beyond her passions for her family and career, Julie had many hobbies and interests that fulfilled and enriched her life. At heart, she was an artist and creative soul. In her younger years, she was a talented pianist, seamstress, painter, and later in life, a prolific scrapbooker. Julie also had an eye for design, having originally started college as an Interior Design major. Though she never pursued a career in the field, she had a life-long passion for building, designing, and decorating her homes, all 13 of them!
Physical activity was important to Julie. She loved all water-related things: boating, skiing, swimming, and lake life. Every day was a new opportunity to achieve her goal of getting 10,000 steps. Julie loved to dance, and could often be seen embarrassing her kids with her latest dance moves.
Everyone who knew Julie could tell you about her impeccable style, and also her impeccable bargain shopping skills. During her working years, she could be seen in the most beautiful suits, but later in life she grew a sizable collection of leopard print items, which she called her "leopard-licious" clothing.
Julie was beloved by all who crossed her path. Whether long-time friend or stranger, she had a way of making people feel instantly known and loved. She would always remind her children to be two things with people: interesting, and interested. Julie was quick to ask a hundred questions, and was a lifelong interviewer. She cared deeply about the people in her life, and maintained a sizable social circle with friends across the globe. Julie and Tom prioritized social gatherings with dinner clubs, boating crews, and enjoyed hosting guests regularly at their lake houses.
Julie's life was guided by her rich Christian faith, and her personal relationship with Jesus. She loved to spend her mornings journaling, and documented all stages of her life in writing and reflection. Julie was passionate about the local church and serving God.
Left to cherish her memory are her three beloved children and their partners: Kevin Huisman of Ames, Iowa, Melissa Huisman of Austin, Texas and Karina and Mark Kendall of Fort Drum, New York. She had two beautiful granddaughters, Bianca Anne McConkey of Ogden, Iowa, and Ellen Kathy-Marie Kendall of Fort Drum, New York. Julie also leaves behind many members of her loving family –– her sister, Nancy Hemphill of Ames, Iowa; her nieces and their families: Becky, Aaron, Allison, and Jacob Rogers, of Ames, Iowa, and Katie, Nate, and Lincoln Molstad of Ankeny, Iowa; her mother-in-law, Joyce Huisman of Ames, Iowa; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda and Tom Thomas of Ames, Iowa, her brother-in-law and nephew, Ted and Nick Huisman of State Center, Iowa, and her sister-in-law and nephew, Laura and Grant Beckett of Everett, Washington.
Julie was predeceased by her beloved husband, Tom Huisman; her mother and father, Keith and Ellen Landon; her father-in-law Charles Huisman; and her brothers-in-law Monty Hemphill and Larry Beckett. We are sure she is thrilled to be reunited with them all.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Adams Funeral Home of Ames. Online condolences may be left for Julie's family at www.adamssoderstrum.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the First United Methodist Church of Ames. The family would like to thank all who knew and loved Julie and the Huismans for their unending support and love for their mother and family.
Obituary Posted online on July 27, 2021
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--- Mark Dekovic Obituary
Mark Dekovic passed away August 3, 2023 and it has left a hole in my heart. I have known Mark since Junior High School growing up in Ames, IA. He was a wonderful friend and classmate and we will all miss him so much.
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Mark C. Dekovic (Deke) Obituary
Age 67, of Crystal, Minnesota, passed away August 3, 2023, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Mark was born on May 31, 1956 in Chicago, IL, to Charles and Elaine Dekovic.
Most of Mark's childhood was spent trying to grow up in Ames, IA (some would say he never did). He attended Ames High School where he fell in love with the arts, especially theater and music. Mark reveled in the stage and performing, which he carried on throughout his life. Following high school, Mark went to work for Aunt Maude's restaurant in Ames where he developed his cooking skills that would later spare his wife from her own bland hot dishes and cans of SpaghettiOs. He continued his education at Iowa State University, pursuing his love of theater through countless performances in Stars Over VEISHA, Union Board Theater, and Memorial Union Resident Summer Theater (MURST). He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design in 1983.
After moving to Minneapolis in 1983, Mark enjoyed sharing his talents with the Minnesota Shakespeare Company and cooking at various restaurants around the city before starting at McKesson Corporation where he began his 30-year career working most recently as an E-commerce Web Designer. He exited stage left into retirement in September 2022 (because who doesn't love doing web design?). The overall enjoyment-quotient at McKesson dropped 75% when he retired as he was the go-to guy for fun at many company functions, hosting and entertaining during trade shows, United Way functions, banquets, and other events. When Mark walked into the room, everyone noticed!
In 1999, Mark married his co-star, Sue Johnson, who came with an award-worthy supporting cast of Kiernan and Karlyn. He brought his authentic zest for life and his passion for fun into their lives, for which they will be forever grateful. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and friend. His many hobbies included being an avid photographer, playing his collection of guitars, woodworking, the Chicago Bears, and spending time with family. He will be remembered for his hilarious sense of humor and his gentle kindness.
Mark is survived by his wife of 24 years, Sue; stepson Kiernan Johnson and stepdaughter Karlyn (David) Mlostek, one granddaughter Reagan Mlostek; his mother Elaine Dekovic, Ames, IA; siblings; Charles (Sara), Queens Creek, AZ; Jay (Dalila), Tabernash, CO; Lauren (Martin) Fenimore, Des Moines, IA; Julie Dekovic (Donald Duhon), Spring, TX; Elizabeth Catanesi (Deborah Walton), Nipomo, CA; 8 nephews, 3 grand-nieces, 4 grand-nephews and countless other family and friends. Preceded in death by his father, Charles W. Dekovic, Jr.
Many thanks to the nurses and doctors at Methodist Hospital and the Health Partners Frauenshuh Cancer Center for their compassion and humor. You truly are Heroes!
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 16th, 2023, at 3125 Virginia, Ave. North, Crystal, MN, from 1-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation at the following link: curecca.link/MarkDekovic
"All the world's a stage;
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances;
And one man in his time plays many parts..."
William Shakespeare (From As you Like it)
Posted online on August 09, 2023
Published in Ames Tribune
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