John Ollis Miller

By Allison Jacobs · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 4:24 pm CDT

John Ollis Miller, 86, of Marion, died Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at St. Luke’s Hospital, Cedar Rapids.  He was born January 27, 1939 in Kirksville, Missouri to Louis and Fern Miller.  On September 29, 1957 he married Mary Lou Toft.

He was a 1957 graduate of New London High School, served in the US Army, and was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Marion.

John worked as a construction supervisor for NorthWestern Bell, later known as US West.  He was a member of NW Bell Pioneers in which he was active for twenty years; he was a leader for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion during his tenure at US West.

John won many awards in marketing; volunteered through the church and was a church sponsor.   He enjoyed his family, his neighbors, genealogy, woodworking and his tool collection.

He is survived by his wife Mary; two sons Bradley (Manny) Miller-Garcia of Davenport and Craig (Barb) Miller of North Oreton, Ohio; five grandchildren, Sara Ealey, Seth, Owen, Audrey, and Scott Miller; and two great-grandchildren, Lelan and Ridge Ealey.  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Steven J. Miller and grandson John Miller.

The family will greet friends at a luncheon at Elliott Chapel, New London beginning at 11:30 am, Monday, July 14, 2025.  Immediately following the luncheon will be a 1:00 PM graveside service with his grandson Seth Miller officiating.  Military rites will be presented by the Henry County Honor Guard.  A memorial has been established and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

Complete Lee County 2025 Swine Show Results

By Hayden Douglas · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 12:29 pm CDT

Swine Show Results

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Champion Crossbred Breeding Gilt – Brody Moeller

Reserve Champion Crossbred Breeding Gilt – Jenna Scwartz

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Champion Purebred Breeding Gilt – Jaren Gerdes

Reserve Champion Purebred Breeding Gilt – Paisley Anderson

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Champion Breeding Gilt  – Jaren Gerdes

Reserve Champion Breeding Gilt – Brody Moeller

3rd Overall Breeding Gilt –Jenna Schwartz

4th Overall Breeding Gilt – Jaren Gerdes

5th Overall Breeding Gilt – Paisley Moeller

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Champion Derby Gilt – Emry McCarty

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Champion Derby Barrow – Henley Hawk

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Champion Derby Swine – Emry McCarty

Reserve Champion Derby Swine – Jenna Schwartz

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Champion Derby Carcass – Jenna Schwartz

Reserve Champion Derby Carcass – Adalyn Kruse

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1st Place Rate of Gain – Jayden Mueller

2nd Place Rate of Gain – Jayden Mueller

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Competitive Swine Barrow – Korben Moeller

Champion Competitive Swine Gilt – Taylor Jones

Champion Competitive Swine Live – Taylor Jones

Reserve Champion Competitive Swine Live – Kaylle Moeller

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1st Place Rate of Gain – Taylor Jones

2nd Place Rate of Gain – Ross Linder

1st Place Carcass – Taylor Jones

2nd Place Carcass – Kaylee Moeller

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Champion Junior Competitive Swine Overall– Kolten Moeller

Champion Intermediate Competitive Swine Overall – Kaylee Moeller

Champion Senior Competitive Swine Overall – Korbin Moeller

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Champion Market Gilt – Owen Swan

Reserve Champion Market Gilt –Eliza Weisinger

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Champion Market Barrow – Eliza Weisinger

Reserve Champion Market Barrow – Brody Moeller

3rd Overall Market Barrow –Ella Weisinger

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Champion Purebred Market Swine- Presley Moeller

Reserve Champion Purebred Market Swine –Paisley Anderson

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Champion Market Swine – Eliza Weisinger

Reserve Champion Market Swine – Brody Moeller

3rd Overall Market Swine – Owen Swan

4th Overall Market Swine – Ella Weisinger

5th Overall Market Swine – Eliza Weisinger

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Supreme Champion Swine – Eliza Weisinger

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Champion Advanced Showmanship- Brody Moeller

Champion Senior Showmanship – Ella Weisinger

Champion Intermediate Showmanship – Jaren Gerdes

Champion Junior Showmanship – Presley Moeller

Robert Daniel Brenneman

By Hayden Douglas · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 11:46 am CDT

Robert Daniel Brenneman, 76, of Mitchellville, formerly of Mt. Union, died Saturday, July 5, 2025 at UnityPoint Health – Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, surrounded by his children.  He was born July 13, 1948 in Mt. Union to Lloyd Daniel and Maxine Mae Johnson Brenneman.

He was a 1966 graduate of Winfield Mt. Union High School and attended Southeastern Community College for engineering.  He worked in industrial sales and as a product specialist for Micro Switch and Honeywell.  Bob always loved and appreciated Iowa farmland and took great pride in the legacy of the Brenneman family century farm.  A curious guy, an engineer at heart, he was always questioning things and how they worked, enjoying taking things apart and reassembling, whether it be cars or computers.  Throughout his life, he enjoyed working on cars, especially having a love for Pontiacs; computers; Sci-Fi television; talk radio; or simply working on a project in the shop.   You could say he was a memorable guy, from his salesman personality, quick wit, and storytelling ability.

He is survived by his children, Michelle (Brad) Cramblit of Altoona, Michael Brenneman of Coralville, and Marcus Brenneman of West Des Moines; three grandchildren, George, Cienna and Cheyenne Cramblit; sisters Deborah (Mike) Remick of Mt. Union and Marilyn Nichols of Winfield; and nieces and nephews.  Preceding him in death were his parents and brother-in-law David Nichols.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at Elliott Chapel, New London, with Rev. Jeff McPheron officiating.  Burial will follow at Trinity Cemetery, rural Mt. Union.  Visitation will begin at 9:00 with the family greeting friends from 10:00 until the time of the service.  The family would like to invite friends and family to the New London Community Center at 103 W. Washington, for a luncheon following the burial.  A memorial has been established and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

Gladys Josephine Ranney

By Hayden Douglas · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 11:46 am CDT

Gladys Josephine Ranney age 97 formerly of Packwood passed away in Sigourney, Iowa.

There will be a private family gathering celebrating her life at a later date.  Memorials may be made to the family and mailed to Jodi Milligan, 402 Suellen Street, Richland, Iowa 52585.  Behner Funeral Home is helping the family with arrangements.

Gladys was born March 18, 1928, in LeMars, Iowa to John and Elvina Bourne.

Gladys moved to Iowa Falls when she was younger. Later she met Donald Ranney. They married November 3, 1946 and raised their daughter Diane. They lived most of their life in Marshalltown but decided to move to Packwood to be close their daughter Diane (Lee).

Gladys loved to flower garden, bake, doing jigsaw puzzles and her word-finds. Her chocolate chip cookies never lasted long around the grandchildren. She loved working at Fannie Mae and Hallmark and spending time with family. Later in life she enjoyed her Fridays with daughter Diane when they would get their hair done at Miss Kitty’s, go shopping, and grab lunch. She enjoyed visiting with her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

Left to share her memories are her grandchildren Michael (Sheila) Vokoun, Jodi (Matt) Milligan, Michelle (Mike) Hoy, Teri (Mike) Miller and Traci (Todd) Hoefler, her great grandchildren, Nathaniel, Nicholas, Neil, JJ (Addi), Josh (Tefna), Jade (Michael), Andrea, Erica, Danielle (Charles), Lee, Daphne (Chase), Rhyan and Hayden and her great-great grandchildren Garett, Graci, Ainsley, Jase, Braxton, Charlotte and soon to be Viola. Her brother Richard (Pat) Bourne and sister Eileen Ramey.

Gladys was proceeded in death by her husband Donald Ranney, her daughter Diane Stone, her parents John and Elvina Bourne, and her brother Robert Bourne.

 

Final Day to Enter 4-H Projects for Henry County Fair

By Hayden Douglas · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 10:04 am CDT

Mount Pleasant, Iowa – Attention 4-H members and families: today, Thursday, July 11, is the absolute final day to register your projects and livestock exhibits for the 2025 Henry County Fair through Fair Entry.

The ISU Extension & Outreach – Henry County office is reminding all exhibitors that no late entries will be accepted under any circumstances. Whether it’s livestock, photography, baked goods, or woodworking, if you’re planning to show at the fair, your entries must be submitted by the end of the day.

“If you’ve been holding off, now is the time,” the office urged in a recent reminder. “Have some free time today? 🍀 Use it to make sure all your projects are entered!”

The entry process is required for all 4-H participants, regardless of project type. Fair Entry helps organizers prepare judges’ materials, assign stalls and exhibit spaces, and ensure a smooth experience for youth and families during the fair.

Need help submitting? The Extension Office staff are available during business hours to assist with questions.

The Henry County Fair kicks off next week, and it promises to be another exciting showcase of hard work and creativity from local youth.

To enter your projects now, visit https://henry.fairentry.com/Fair/SignIn/22116

Don’t delay — entries close tonight!

Local Exhibitors Shine in First Rounds of Lee County Fair Swine Shows

By Hayden Douglas · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 10:00 am CDT

The Lee County Fair’s Crossbred and Purebred Breeding Swine Show delivered a high-energy competition Thursday, featuring top-notch gilts and passionate youth exhibitors. Judges praised the depth and quality of the animals in both divisions, with local competitors rising to the top and earning major honors in one of the fair’s most competitive events.

Jaren Gerdes stole the spotlight, claiming Champion Purebred Breeding Gilt and Champion Breeding Gilt Overall—a rare and impressive double win. Judges applauded his gilt’s exceptional balance, structure, and feminine build, calling her “the kind of design you want to build a program around.” Her presence in the ring and completeness from every angle made her the clear standout.

Presley Moeller took home Reserve Champion Purebred Breeding Gilt with a well-structured female that impressed with her muscle expression and smooth movement. The judge noted her soundness and show ring composure, making her a strong contender in the division.

In the crossbred division, Brody Moeller earned Grand Champion Crossbred Breeding Gilt with a striking yellow gilt described by the judge as having a “wild turn to her rib,” powerful body, and “expensive” look. “She looks like she can raise a herd,” the judge remarked, praising her combination of style, maternal traits, and ring presence.

Jenna Schwartz secured the Reserve Champion Crossbred Breeding Gilt title with a sleek black gilt known for her structural soundness and complete build. “She’s a little more functional in her legs,” the judge commented, complimenting her clean design and practical look.

Brody Moeller also claimed the Reserve Champion Breeding Gilt Overall, capping off an outstanding day in the show ring for the Moeller family.

“This was not an easy show to sort — every exhibitor should be proud,” the judge said, recognizing the high quality and competitive spirit on display. “These are the kind of gilts that can make an impact.”

The Lee County Fair continues today with more livestock action:

  • 6:00 P.M. – Lee County Cattlemen’s Bucket Bottle Calf Show

Come out to support local youth and enjoy a full day at the fair!

Lynn E. Hitchings – PENDING

By Allison Jacobs · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 6:47 am CDT

Lynn E. Hitchings, 82, of New London, died Thursday, July 10, 2025 at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospital, West Burlington.  Arrangements are pending at Elliott Chapel, New London.

Sports, July 11th

By Slaten Swords · Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 6:29 am CDT

Postseason Softball

For Class 3A Region 5, Mediapolis put up eight runs in the first inning as the Bulldogs crushed West Burlington/Notre Dame last night 10-2. Payton Harris and AvaLynn Prall each collected two RBIs in the win, while Lyndsey Kelley and Madalynn Knapp capped their careers with an RBI apiece. The Falcons ended the season with a 15-21 record. 

Mediapolis will await the winner between Assumption and Camanche as their game was paused entering the fourth inning with the Knights holding a 4-0 lead. The Bulldogs will play tomorrow, July 12th, at 7 pm.

Central Lee dominated Monticello, 11-0, and Washington walloped Midland, 22-0, to set up a rematch of last year’s regional semifinal. The Demons and Hawks will meet tomorrow at 7 pm in Washington.

In Class 3A Region 8, Fairfield was upset by Davis County last night, 6-4. Leah Helmick crushed a two-run homer in the losing effort. The Trojans ended the season with a 20-16 record. 

In the Class 4A Region 3 bracket, Mt. Pleasant fell to Oskaloosa last night 10-2. Chaley Cook had a phenomenal game, collecting a pair of hits, including her first career solo home run. The Panthers finished the season with a 6-30 record. 

Fort Madison moved past Keokuk last night 8-2. Laci Gathers clapped a two-RBI double in the victory. Keokuk ended the season with a 3-30 record. The Bloodhounds will travel to square off against Norwalk tomorrow at 7 pm.

Burlington was eliminated by Maquoketa last night 11-8. The Grayhounds finished the season with a 13-14 record. 

For Class 1A Region 1, Holy Trinity Catholic versus Seymour has been postponed for tonight. The game will be played at either Seymour at 5 pm or Centerville at 7 pm tomorrow, July 12th, depending on the field conditions. 

Postseason Baseball

New London will act as the home team against Pekin for the District 10 Championship tomorrow, July 12th, at 7 pm at Sigourney High School. KILJ 105.5 FM, kilj.com, will be on the call with the pregame show at 6:45 pm.

Moving to Class 2A Substate 4 District 7, #5 Mediapolis will host Durant tomorrow at 7 pm.

Over in Class 2A Substate 5 District 9, Central Lee will venture back to Chariton tomorrow to face off against the Chargers at 7 pm.

For Class 3A Substate 5, Washington will face off against Assumption tonight at 7 pm.

In Substate 6, Mt. Pleasant will square off against Fairfield today at 1 pm on the road. KILJ 105.5 FM, kilj.com, will be on the call. Panther head coach Brent Broeker talked about the opportunity that sits in front of his squad,

“Yeah, I was talking to the coaching staff earlier today, you know, they beat us by 14 the first game, they beat us by 8 the second game, they only beat us by one at their place last time we played them. So, you know, we’re making progress. We just gotta, you know, get that, get that big hit when we need it.”

Keokuk will travel to Pella at 5 pm tonight.

Fort Madison versus Xavier has been postponed to tomorrow at noon.

For Class 4A Substate 3, Burlington grabbed the #4-seed and will hit the road to compete against the #3-seed Muscatine today at 3 pm.

Mt. Pleasant Summer Camps

Mt. Pleasant will be hosting Panther Hoopla: A Southeast Iowa Basketball Camp from July 16th through the 18th. Coaches will work with the campers in a fun and challenging environment, filled with drills, player development, and competitive games.

The morning session is for 6th through 8th graders, and it runs from 8:30 am to 10:30 am. The afternoon session will go from 1 pm to 3 pm for 3rd through 5th graders.

Check out this link for other local summer athletic camps: School Summer Camps

Prospect League

The Burlington Bees have won their past three contests after smacking the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes last night 16-6. Kooper Schulte clocked a double for two RBIs, while Owen Nowak led the squad with six RBIs as he hit a grand slam to start the game. The Bees will stay on the road, looking to sweep the Lucky Horseshoes tonight at 6:30 pm.

The Clinton LumberKings had their matchup against the Quincy Doggy Paddlers postponed last night. The two will duel in a doubleheader tonight in Quincy with game one at 5 pm.

This Day in Sports History

1900 – Charlotte Cooper beats Hélène Prévost to become the first female Olympic tennis champion and the first individual female Olympic champion in any sport.

1914 – Future Baseball Hall of Fame slugger Babe Ruth makes his MLB debut as a pitcher for Boston Red Sox; earns a 4-3 win against the Cleveland Naps at Fenway Park.

1985 – Astros’ Nolan Ryan is the first to strike out 4,000.