Kenneth ‘Ken’ Franz ’66

01/04/1936 – 06/09/2026

Kenneth LeRoy Franz, 89, of Berrien Springs, MI passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph. Kenneth was born Oct. 4, 1936, in Ellendale, N.D., to Bennie and Irene (Sprouse) Franz. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Union College in Lincoln, Neb., and later earned his master’s degree from the University of Michigan. On July 26, 1959, he married Norma Arvidson in Madison, S.D. Kenneth dedicated his career to education, serving as a mathematics professor at Andrews University, where he was known for his patience and commitment to helping students understand and appreciate mathematics. In addition to teaching, he was a skilled mason who worked extensively with stone, brick, and concrete. Kenneth enjoyed tending his vegetable garden, photographing the world around him, reading, and continually expanding his knowledge. He had a lifelong fascination with history and could often be found watching documentaries or immersed in a good book. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors especially during the summertime, including keeping a watchful eye on the gophers around his property. Kenneth is survived by his wife Norma ’65; daughter, Julene Jackson; grandsons, Mason Bortz, Derek (Christina) Franz; great grandsons, Owen & Alex; brother, Jim (Robyn) ; sister, Lois Smith (’62); and daughter-in-law Debe Franz. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dean; brother, Timothy and sister, JoAnn Hall.

Virgil Don Heinrich (’72)

01/23/1953 – 06/01/2026

Virgil Don Heinrich, age 73, Tolstoy, N.D., died at home June 1, 2026, after a 6 months fight/struggle from cancer. Virgil, son of Adah (Brenneise) and Clemens Heinrich, was born Jan. 23, 1953, at the Hoven Hospital. He grew up on a farm eleven miles south of Bowdle with his three brothers, Keith, Jim, and Gordon and two sisters, Elaine and Trudi. His formal education consisted of a country school, Bowdle Public School, Maplewood Academy in Hutchinson, Minn., Union College in Lincoln, Neb., and Hinsdale Hospital in Ill. In 1974, Virgil graduated from Hinsdale Hospital as a X-ray technician. He worked at the Bowdle Hospital and later the Hoven Hospital. He continued to farm throughout his life. On June 27, 1982, Virgil married Linda Ruether in Wausau, Wisc. The couple moved to his great grandparents’ farm south of Bowdle and had four children, Tyron, Tina, Terah, and Taya. In 2001, the family moved to Hutchinson, Minn., where the children could attend church school. Later, they moved back to the farm in S.D., in 2008 and Virgil had resided there until his death.
Virgil enjoyed farming, gardening, reading, and spending time with the family including his grandchildren. Virgil had traveled to Pohnpei, Guam, New Zealand, Philippines, Thailand, and Iceland. Also he enjoyed traveling with his family to the national parks. He was a member of the Bowdle SDA Church and active in ministries. He had a passion for sharing Christ. He is survived by his wife, Linda; two sons,Tyron ’07 (Hilary) and Terah (Jessica); two daughters, Tina Heinrich ’10 and Taya Heinrich; two brothers, Keith ’73 (Yvonne ’72), and Jim (Connie); two sisters, Elaine ’78 (Tommy) Babbit and Trudi ’84 (Steve) Hatch; and seven beloved grandchildren, Alyanna Beebe, Aria Beebe, Theo Heinrich, Hallie Heinrich, Esther Heinrich, Vincenzo Heinrich, and Natalie Heinrich. He is preceded in death by his mother on March 29, 2006, his father on April 24, 2006, and brother Gordon ’78 on February 15, 2020. Virgil is now resting in peaceful sleep, awaiting the great and glorious return of Jesus.

Dan Duff ’64

02/13/1937 – 05/29/2026

Daniel M Duff, age 89, of Lincoln, Neb., died peacefully Friday, May 29, 2026. Dan was born Feb. 13, 1937 in Lincoln, Neb. Dan was Director of Student Financial Aid at Union College for 34 years and a member of the College View SDA Church. Dan was a devoted family man and is survived by his wife of 66 years Edith “Dee” (Nowlan) Duff, his daughter, Dana Schneider (’83), and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Helen “Chapman” Duff, his daughter Cara Lee Duff; sister, LaVern; brothers, Byron, Gaylord, Doug and his son-in-law David “Davey” Schneider ’86.

Gary VerSteeg ’76

12/25/1950 – 05/20/2026

Gary Lynn VerSteeg, age 75, passed away peacefully at home in Newton, Iowa, on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Gary was born on Dec. 25, 1950, in Newton, Iowa, to Wilbur F. VerSteeg and Martha Ann (Bachman) VerSteeg. He attended Oak Park Academy for high school and later earned his bachelor’s in English from Union College in Lincoln, Neb. On Dec. 10, 1981, Gary was united in marriage to Medianita de Sagun Reyes in Tanzania. Together they shared a life of faith, service, and love, raising their daughter, Aprille, while serving internationally for many years. Gary devoted much of his life to missionary work through the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, teaching English and touching the lives of many through his kindness, patience, and dedication. Gary and Meds retired to his childhood home in Newton, where they continued their ministry and witness through their interactions with family, neighbors, friends and their local church. He had a inquisitive, curious mind and a thoughtful, gentle spirit that stayed with him throughout his life. He was a man of few, but impactful words and kind, well-considered action. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Medianita VerSteeg; his daughter, Aprille ’05 (Josh ’03) Okimi; and his brothers, Dennis VerSteeg and Richard VerSteeg, as well as many colleagues, extended or found family, and students all around the globe. Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his infant son, Eric Allen VerSteeg; his brothers, Ronnie VerSteeg, Michael VerSteeg, Thomas VerSteeg, and Randal VerSteeg; and his sister, Debra McClurkin.

Lois Dittberner ’65

01/31/1941 – 05/18/2026

Lois Dittberner, age 85, of Lincoln, passed away May 18, 2026. She was born Jan. 31, 1941, in Mankato, Minn., to parents Ardie and Hazel Dittberner. She graduated from Maplewood Academy in 1959 and then attended Union College, graduating with a bachelor’s degree double major of Home Economics and Social Welfare and a minor in Religion. Following graduation, Lois worked in food service at Hinsdale Adventist Hospital in Chicago, Ill. She returned home to Mankato where she was a caregiver to her parents and volunteer at the Mankato Seventh-day Adventist church. A highlight was when she accompanied her parents in 1974 on a trip to the Holy Land. After her father passed away 1992, Lois and her mother moved to Lincoln, Neb., to be near her brother’s family. She continued her volunteer work with the College View SDA Church and was primary caregiver to her mother until she also passed. Lois then made her home available to international students who needed a place to live while attending Union College. One of those students took her on an extended trip to visit his family in Brazil. Lois worked for Veterans Affairs and later in home health as a caregiver for Tabitha and Visiting Angels. Lois loved miniature schnauzers and raised several of them over the years. “Buddy” remains in the care of a friend who took him into her home when Lois was no longer able to care for him. Lois is survived by her sister-in-law Beverly Dittberner; nieces, Sherri (’98) (Tony ’95) Cash , Terri ’98 (Randy) Tanner; nephew Brian Dittberner, and four grand nieces and nephews. Lois was preceded in death by her parents Ardie and Hazel (Johnson) Dittberner and brother Dean ’65. Memorials can be sent to Union Adventist University, 3800 S 48th Street, Lincoln, NE, 68506.

Anita Keith Kidwiler Christensen ’61

12/09/1940 – 04/25/2026

Anita Keith Kidwiler Christensen ’61 passed away on Sabbath, April 25, 2026. Anita had a type of cancer that spread all over, but had been kept at bay for many years. Anita is survived by her husband, Stan Christensen and family; son, Monte Kidwiler; grandchildren and a host of friends. Anita was employed by Union for many years, working in the Records Office as assistant registrar and registrar. She helped dozens of seniors find the right classes at the right time so they could graduate. Many students would find her to give her a hug on graduation day as they knew how hard she worked to help them.

Norman Ahrens ’76

07/06/1954 – 04/17/2026

Norman (Norm) Ahrens passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, in his home surrounded by his loving family. Norm was born in Grinnell, Iowa, on July 6, 1954, to George and Irene Ahrens. His early years were spent on the family farm near Kellogg, Iowa. He attended grade school in Grinnell before completing the 8th grade at a private elementary school in Des Moines, Iowa. Norm went on to attend Oak Park Academy in Nevada, Iowa, where he graduated in 1972. His pursuit of higher education took him to Union Adventist University in Lincoln, Neb., Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, Texas, and the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. While living in Lincoln, Norm worked in construction, specializing in concrete flatwork and roofing. It was there that he met Videll Wetenkamp ’77; they were married in May 1977 and began a beautiful 48-year journey together. In 1980, Norm and Videll moved to a farm near Tintah, Minn., to partner in farming with his father-in-law, Donald Wetenkamp. That same year, Norm discovered his second great passion: flying. After obtaining his Private Single Engine Land license in 1980, he dedicated himself to the craft, eventually earning his Commercial, Instrument, and Instructor ratings. He took great pride in mentoring new pilots and sharing the joy of flight. Norm remained a dedicated steward of the land until his retirement from farming in 2018. A man of faith and service, Norm was an active member of the Wahpeton, N.D., Seventh-day Adventist Church. He shared his technical talents by running the sound system and assisting with the general maintenance of the church. In retirement, Norm and Videll embraced the open road and the open sky, traveling extensively throughout the United States. Whether he was golfing, fishing with friends, or riding his Harley, Norm found joy in the moment and the company of those he loved. Norm will be remembered most for his quick wit, his ready smile, and his remarkably gentle spirit. He is survived by his mother, Irene; his wife, Videll; his children, Cassie (Brent) and Wayne (Jamie); five grandchildren; and four siblings, Bob, Dave, Lawrence, and Narda. He was preceded in death by his father, George Ahrens.

Mavis Lyn Fletcher ’66

09/18/1925 – 04/15/2026

Mavis Lyn Fletcher ’66, age 100, passed away April 15, 2026 in Omaha, Neb. She was born in Jamaica, West Indies. Mavis will be remembered as a kind hearted, God fearing woman, who put her family first. From humble beginnings, Mavis converted to the Seventh-day Adventist Church, leading her to attend West Indies College where she met Joseph Emanuel Fletcher. She graduated from West Indies College (Northern Caribbean University) in Mandeville, Jamaica. With her husband, she moved to Lincoln, Neb., in 1963 to attend Union College (Union Adventist University), graduating with a degree in English. Her teaching career which started with the Omaha Public School system included time in elementary, high school and college education, in Nebraska, Maryland, California, and Jamaica. Her favorite hobby was sewing and she became an accomplished seamstress. Though she became a United States citizen she was proud of her Jamaican heritage and remained in contact with her extended Jamaican family. She had a special bond with her two grandchildren, Mackenzie and Easton. Mavis is survived by son, Garth 82 (Carol McCormick ’83) Fletcher; grandchildren, Mackenzie and Easton; and numerous extended family members. Mavis was preceded in death by her husband of more than 50 years, Joseph; sons, Franz (’73) and Wayne; daughter, Judy.

David Job ’65

05/02/1942 – 04/02/2026

David Job, age 83, of McDonald, Tenn., passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, after a battle with leukemia, with his loving wife by his side. He was born in Jamestown, N.D., to Louis Job and Lydia Marzolf, one of eight children. Raised in a hardworking family of modest means, David learned the value of industriousness early in life by selling newspapers on street corners at just five years old in the cold Dakota winters to help support his family. He enjoyed his years at Union College, in Lincoln, Neb., where he earned his bachelor’s degree and met the love of his life, Anne. He began his career as a high school mathematics teacher before returning to school to pursue a calling in ministry, serving as a pastor in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Iowa. He later transitioned into a career as a nursing home administrator, a role he embraced with determination and self-taught expertise. David had a remarkable ability to meet challenges head-on and master them. A natural leader, he was deeply respected and beloved by his staff, many of whom affectionately called him ‘Daddy’ for his guidance, mentorship, and example of integrity. He was never above hard work, earning admiration for his willingness to lead by example. David was a devoted husband, father, and provider who took great pride in caring for his family and supporting those who worked alongside him. Together, David and Anne built homes for their family across several states, including Nebraska, Colorado, Tennessee, Florida, and South Carolina. Following his retirement from nursing home administration, he remained active in land development, home renovation, and construction in the Bradley County, Tenn., area. Even into his 70s, he was known for his strong work ethic and ability to outwork those much younger. David will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing or working with him. He was preceded in death by his parents and all his siblings. He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, Anne; his children, Peter (Kim) and Gina (Brendon); and his seven grandchildren: Garron, Dylan, Tyler, Raegan, Mitchell, Carter, and Gabrielle.

Marjorie Eileen Syfert Campbell (’56)

10/31/1935 – 03/03/2026

Marjorie Eileen Syfert Campbell (’56), age 90, of Ooltewah, Tenn., passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Born Oct. 31, 1935, in Oklahoma City, Marjorie grew up surrounded by the lively energy of a large family. She later moved with her parents and siblings to Lincoln, Neb., where the Syfert children worked in local industries and attended Union College Academy. Marjorie continued her education at Union College in Lincoln, at Spicer Memorial College in Pune, India, and ultimately graduated from Southern Missionary College in 1971 with a degree in Home Economics. Marjorie lived a life marked by service, creativity, and quiet strength. Over the years she worked as an administrative assistant, bookkeeper, and florist assistant; roles in which her attention to detail, gentle spirit, and reliability shone. She was deeply committed to community service and children’s ministry, serving faithfully in her local churches, including the La Sierra Seventh-day Adventist Church in California. Marjorie delighted in the simple joys of life: birdwatching, collecting spoons from her world travels, and sewing with remarkable skill. She was a devoted wife and a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother whose kindness and steady presence enriched the lives of all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Roma Syfert, and siblings Louise Gusso ’49, Bonnie Bodnar (’51), Marian Page ’56, Jeannette Williams ’62, and Jim Syfert ’62. Marjorie is survived by her devoted husband, Melvin ’58; daughters, Kathy Dodd (Dennis), Judy Dedeker (Jay); son, Steve ; seven grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and siblings, Gene Syfert (’50), Don Syfert (’63) and Bobbi Litzenberger ’67. Melvin and the family wish to express heartfelt gratitude to their children and spouses, their son; Amedisys Hospice, and the many church and community friends who surrounded Marjorie with compassion during her final days. Every visit, hug, meal, and bouquet brought comfort and was deeply appreciated.

Duane Ready (’54)

03/28/1934 – 02/24/2026

Duane L. Ready was born Mar. 28, 1934, in Delta, Colo. He passed away Feb. 24, 2026 in Arvada, Colo. Member of the LifeSource Adventist Fellowship Church. Preceded in death by 1 sister. Survivors include wife, Betty (’53); daughters Barbara Wall ’74, Cheryl Bland, Wanda, and Donna Reeder; three sisters; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Kenneth Oliver (’71)

09/24/1952 – 02/24/2026

Kenneth Wayne Oliver, age 73, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on February 24, 2026. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, Kenny lived a life defined by compassion, service, and devotion to family. Kenny spent his career as a Registered Nurse, proudly serving his community. Caring for patients in their most urgent moments was not just his job – it was a calling he embraced fully. Kenny was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Peggy Oliver (’74). Together they built a family rooted in love and faith. He was a proud and loving father to Rachel Lassel ’97 and her husband Jason, and Hanne Beldin ’02 and her husband Justin. He treasured his role as “Bapa” to his grandchildren – David ’23, Max ’23, Ila, Hudson, and Claire who brought him immeasurable joy. He is survived by his brother, Terry Oliver, and his wife Susie, along with Terry’s three daughters and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elder Earnest W. Oliver ’53 and Dorothy J. Oliver (’49).

Ranae Lemcke Larsen ’79

02/03/1957 – 02/24/2026

Dr. Ranae Larsen passed away Feb. 24, 2026. Dr. Larsen dedicated her life to the tiniest and most vulnerable hearts. As a pediatric cardiologist and Head of Pediatric Cardiology at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, she spent nearly three decades healing children and giving families hope when they needed it most. Dr. Larsen helped build the pediatric cardiology program at Loma Linda, recruiting and mentoring younger physicians along the way. She also served as Medical Director of the Loma Linda Heart Institute. Her colleagues recognized her exceptional diagnostic skill, and her patients’ families knew her as a calm, caring presence during the most difficult moments of their lives. The Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild is committed to supporting the children hospitalized at LLU Children’s Hospital by developing programs and projects that address the critical needs of these children and their families.

Vickie Scott Osborn ’74

12/24/1951 – 02/17/2026

Vickie Scott Osborn, age 74, of Callaway, Neb., passed away February 17, 2026, at the Callaway Good Life Center. Vickie was born on Dec. 24, 1951, in Kearney, Neb., to Henry and Marjorie (Owen) Scott. Vickie grew up in the Oconto area. She attended and graduated from Platte Valley Academy in Shelton. After high school she went to Union College and earned her BSN. Vickie was united in marriage to Stephen J. Osborn on June 20, 1982, at Estes Park, Colo. During her time as a nurse, they lived in Oklahoma, Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska. They made their home in Broken Bow and Vickie became a stay-at-home Mom. Vickie enjoyed playing the piano, hiking, nature, skiing, motorcycles, gardening, canning, and baking (especially pies). She was a member of the Broken Bow Seventh-day Adventist Church. Vickie was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Marjorie Scott. Vickie is survived by her husband, Steve; sons Timothy ’09 (Brittany) and John ’11, grandchildren Noah Osborn and Hannah Osborn.

Roger Eno ’48

10/21/1927 – 02/15/2026

Roger Gale Eno passed away Feb. 15, 2026. He was born on Oct. 21, 1927, in Lincoln, Neb. He was the son of Harold and Amy (Saunders) Eno. He received his education in Lincoln at the SDA schools, graduating from Union College Academy in 1946 and attending Union College and receiving an Associate Degree in X-ray tech at Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, Calif. On January 29, 1950, Roger was united in marriage to Eleanor Wagner (’45) in Lincoln, Neb. After residing in Nebraska, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming and Minnesota, they retired to a home in Meeker County before moving to Hutchinson, Minn. They shared 69 years of marriage. Eleanor passed away on Feb. 5, 2019. Roger spent seven years as an X-ray technician, followed by 22 years as religious literature salesman and supervisor, then 30 years as a wood floor sander/finisher, owning his own company. Roger was ordained as a minister while he was employed in the literature ministry. He was a member of the Hutchinson Seventh-day Adventist church at the time of his passing. His interests included classical music, including playing the organ. Antique cars, studying history, and Bible study were strong attractions for him. He held a Ham radio license for a number of years and planned to return to the hobby some day. Roger is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Amy Eno; brother, David; wife, Eleanor Wagner (’45); grandson, Jethenro Halder. He is survived by his son, B. Doug ’74 (Barbara ’76); daughters, Shelly Kinzli ’76, Stephanie Ehman (Randy), Marci ’82; grandchildren, Alan Eno (Debbie ’99); Michael Eno ’01; Christopher Eno (Crystal); Nathaniel Kuenzli, Micaela Penning (Matt), Nitha Ketts (Andrew), and Roshmoti Wolfe; great-grandchildren, Elletra Eno, Devon Eno, Corey Eno, Cara Eno, Caleah Eno, Zoe Penning, Wells Ketts and Elianie Wolfe.

Patricia Barton Harper ’60

11/02/1939 – 02/12/2026

Patricia Lou Harper was born Nov. 2, 1938, in Glendale, AZ to Lou Ellen (Baker) and Ed Kirkpatrick, and died Feb. 12, 2026 at her home in Roswell.  Patricia’s family moved to Brownsville, Texas, where she was raised by her loving stepfather, Ben Barton.  Pat graduated from Brownsville High School in 1956, and went on to attend Southwestern Junior College in Keene, Texas.  It was there that she met her future husband, Dennis Harper, and they were married in Brownsville on Dec. 28, 1959. They made their home in Portales for 40 years where they farmed and ranched and also owned Hello World Travel Agency.  It was there that Pat made many precious friends.  For the past 23 years they had been living in Roswell to be near their only daughter and her family. Even after moving to Roswell, Pat and her husband remained faithful members of the Seventh Day Adventist congregation in Portales, traveling back and forth to attend services.  For enjoyment, Pat made ceramic figurines that she painted and fired in a kiln.  She also entered countless contests, and in one of those contests she won a cruise. She is survived by Dennis (’60), her beloved husband of more than 66 years; her cherished daughter and son-in-law, Stacy and Jonathan Wolkwitzl; her treasured grandson, Colton Wolkwitz, to whom she was lovingly known as “Dodgie”; and one beloved brother, Edward Barton and his wife, Tita. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Norman Haas ’51

01/17/1928 – 02/09/2026

Norman W. Haas, age 98, passed away peacefully in Loveland, Colo., on Feb. 9, 2026. He was born January 17,1928, to Adolf and Minnie Haas in Cleveland, N.D. He had three brothers and five sisters who preceded him in death. Norman grew up on a farm near Cleveland, N.D., until he went away to attend high school at Sheyenne River Academy in Harvey, N.D. While there he met the love of his life, Alice Fischer (’48). They started dating, fell in love, and were married on June 3, 1948. They were married for 72 years before Alice passed away in 2020. Norman attended Union College in Lincoln, Neb., where he graduated with a degree in education. Norman and Alice then moved to Greeley, Colo., where they began their careers as school teachers at the Adventist grade school. In a couple years they moved to Boulder where Norman taught seventh and eighth grades at Boulder Junior Academy. While living in Colorado Norman earned a master’s from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colo. Next Norman accepted a call to Mile High Academy in Denver where he taught Bible, then on to Campion Academy and back to Mile High Academy. In all they lived in Colorado for nearly 20 years before accepting a call to move to Hutchinson, Minn., where Norman taught Bible and was the guidance counselor at Maplewood Academy. A few years later they moved to Minneapolis, Minn., to work for the Minnesota Conference where Norman responsible for Youth and Education Ministries. While there, Norman managed  North Star Camp where he spent his summers keeping a close eye on very energetic teenagers! They then moved to Jamestown, N.D., where Norman ran the Book and Bible House for the North Dakota Conference. Norman and Alice especially enjoyed living in N.D., again where they were close to Alice’s family in Bismarck and many of Norman’s brothers and sisters and their families who lived in the area around Cleveland and Jamestown. Norman especially enjoyed working with people. Serving as a pastor in Grand Island, Neb., Nevada, Iowa, and Clinton, Mo., gave him a special opportunity to complete his 40+ year career in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Norman loved camping, especially while they lived in Colorado. He hand built a camper trailer and a tent top camper. During summers when he had time off from teaching the family would explore the west, spending many vacations in the national parks and driving the Pacific Coast Highway. His favorite hobby was rock collecting and lapidary. The family spent many weekends camping and rock hunting. He was very proud of the fact that when he held their estate sale in 2023 every rock sold and in fact the rock collection raised the most money! Norman’s one big weakness was new cars. There was always a good reason to trade in the one year old car for a new one. In retirement they moved back to Bismarck, N.D. where Alice lovingly cared for her parents until their passing. After this they returned to Colorado where they always dreamed of retiring, they built a new home and have lived in Loveland for 30 years. Norman was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather. He leaves behind his son, Richard ’79 (Debbie), daughter, Susan ’82 (Bob ’81) Dupper, three granddaughters – Alissa (Salvador), Bethany (Derek) and Courtney (Ty), and two grandsons – Ryan (Courtney) and Derek (Meranie).

Elsie Flemmer ’70

09/29/1946 – 01/28/2026

Elsie Flemmer, born Sept. 29, 1946, passed away Jan. 28, 2026, at the age of 79. Elsie was born to Fred and Leah (Graf) Flemmer in Napoleon, N.D. She attended Napoleon High School in N.D. and Union College in Lincoln, Neb. Elsie moved to Walla Walla, Wash., from Roseville, Calif., in 2010. Elsie was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Leah Flemmer; her brothers, Clarence (’55) and Elmer (’71); and her sister, Karen Flemmer. She is survived by her sisters Hilda McClure ’59, Lorraine Ferguson ’72, Gladys Barnes ’75, and Sharon Welch (’81); and by her brother Harry Flemmer ’71.

Marlys Marie Sivertson Jensen ’69

06/18/1946 – 01/18/2026

Marlys Marie Sivertson Jensen, 79, was born June 18, 1946, in Watford City, N.D., to Sigurd and Pearl (Foreman) Sivertson. She passed away Jan. 18, 2026. Marlys attended the Stone School in Pleasant Valley, N.D., and later completed high school at Sheyenne River Academy in Harvey, N.D. She attended Union College (now Union Adventist University) in Lincoln, Neb., where she graduated in 1969 with a degree in computer science. While at Union College, Marlys met Victor Jensen in 1964. The two shared a long courtship, dating for ten years before being married on March 17, 1974, in Omaha, Neb. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work, sharing 51 years of marriage. Marlys and Victor were blessed with five children: Kami, Kari, Karla, Justin, and Jay. After graduating from Union College, Marlys worked for the school until her marriage in 1974. After marrying, she worked alongside Victor on the family farm, raising registered Herefords and registered Quarter Horses. Later in life, she worked at The Plain dealer until her retirement. Marlys was a faithful member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, north of Tekamah, where she served in many ways and held several church offices. She was also a devoted 4-H leader for over 25 years, generously giving her time to encourage and guide young people in her community. Marlys loved spending time with her family and friends and found joy in gardening and preserving, sewing and tailoring, caring for animals, researching genealogy, and being outdoors. Marlys is survived by her loving husband, Victor (’66) ; her children: Kami (Jason) Bennett; Kari (Dave) Hanneman; Karla ’01 (Mike ’01) Bascom; Justin (Jill); Jay (Natalia); grandchildren, Darren Brinkerhoff, Kaden Brinkerhoff, Alex Bennett, Carter Bennett, Gracie Hanneman, Dillon Hanneman, Eliana Bascom, Angelina Bascom, Natasha Bascom, Isabella Bascom, Marissa Jensen, Kate Jensen, and Allie Jensen; her sisters, Sibyl Herr and Alice Boyko; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sigurd and Pearl (Foreman) Sivertson, and her siblings: Joyce Miller, Joycelyn Sivertson, LeVonne (Bonnie) Fandrich, Sidney, Betty, and Daryl Sivertson. Marlys will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her faith, her devotion to family, and the many lives she touched through her kindness, service, and gentle strength.

Thomas “Tommy” Thompson ’51

07/31/1928 – 01/18/2026

Thomas “Tommy” P. Thompson, 97, of Bowman, N.D., passed away on Jan. 18, 2026, at Southwest Healthcare long-term center, where he resided for the past six years. Tommy was born on July 31, 1928, the son of John Herbert Thompson, and Nina (Nelson) Thompson. He was raised in Horton, Kan., where he went to school until he attended Oak Park Academy in Iowa. He graduated from Oak Park Academy in May of 1945. He attended Union College in Lincoln, Neb., in the fall of 1946, where he was studying to be a teacher. Tommy met Ella Mae Tkachenko the following year, and they were united in marriage on Sept. 1, 1949. After their honeymoon, they returned to Union College, where Thomas finished his education degree. Ella Mae worked at the Russell Stover chocolate factory in downtown Lincoln to help support them. As an added perk of the job, she was able to bring home the leftover chocolate for them to eat. Thomas’s favorites were the pecan clusters. Thomas graduated from Union College in the spring of 1950. During the fall of 1950, he began teaching math and Bible classes at Campion Academy, where he also served as the boys’ dean for half the year. He was drafted into the army for two years, which took him and Ella Mae to several different states and offered them many new experiences. After leaving the military, he resumed his teaching career at Plain View Academy for one year. Here, he taught math and was the boys’ dean. He then moved on to Enterprise Academy for five years, where he served as math teacher and boys’ dean. When a position became open at Sheyenne River Academy (SRA), Thomas and Ella Mae were very happy to obtain the job, as it allowed Ella Mae to be closer to her family. They were at SRA in Harvey, N.D., from the Fall of 1960 to 1977, when the school moved to Dakota Adventist Academy (DAA) in Bismarck, N.D. During that time, Thomas’s main job was teaching math, Bible, driver’s ed and history. However, he was willing to help with anything that needed to be done, helping with the boys’ dorm, the school’s dairy farm, driving the bus on school vacations or trips, and much more. They also had a small hobby farm with two cows named Bell and Bluebell. They would use what milk and cream they needed and gave the rest of the milk to their baby calves. Ella Mae would sell the remaining cream to other people. They had some very happy barn cats that had plenty of milk to drink. Ella Mae and Tommy had several parakeets over the years, some of whom were even able to talk, and entertained the students who came to their place for a home-cooked meal. Thomas taught at DAA from 1977 to 1990, after which he retired. All the rows of new trees around the school were weeded by the Thompsons in the early morning hours or evenings during the summer months, and they helped with the sound system at events taking place on campus. After he retired, he returned to teaching several times, teaching math until the school could find a permanent teacher. His dedication to DAA through the years and Christian education was extraordinary. He was a member of many different singing groups over his life, including singing with his wife, Ella Mae. They sang for weddings, funerals, baby dedications, and many other special events. Tommy played with the band at his school and contributed musically wherever needed. They also loved to travel, and bird as they went. One of their favorite places was Alaska, where they traveled many times. They also enjoyed many birding trips to Texas. In 2019, Thomas moved to Bowman, N.D., where he lived in the Sunny Apartments and later moved into Southwest Healthcare long-term care in March of 2023. He remained there until his death, where he still had a love for music and talking any visitor or staff into singing along with him. Tommy is survived by his nephews, and nieces; Tricia Robles, Carol Harder, Bob Thompson, Marry Simons, Jerry Thompson, Thompson Jerome Stimpel, Richard Nelson Stimpel, Larry Aeh, and Becky Humeniuk as well as Ella Mae’s nephews and nieces. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, John Herbert Thompson and Nina(Nelson) Thompson, his four siblings; Orville Richard Thompson, Marjorie Aileen Godsey(Stimpel), Evelyn Aeh, and Clifford Lee Thompson, and his two nephews; James Thompson and William Harold Stimpel, as well as his beloved wife of 75 years, Ella Mae (Tkachenko) Thompson.

Harlen Peck ’59

09/15/1936 – 01/14/2026

Harlen Dean Peck, age 89, of Austin, Minn., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Harlen was born Sept. 15, 1936, in Flint, Mich., to Floyd and Lela Mae Peck. He attended Brainerd High School before transferring to Maplewood Academy in Hutchinson, Minn., where he graduated in 1954. He continued his education at Union Adventist University, graduating in 1959. Harlen furthered his education by earning a master’s degree in physical education from the University of Minnesota. On June 30, 1957, Harlen married the love of his life, Shirley Jean Aultfather, at First Congregational Church in Austin, Minn. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership that spanned seven decades. Harlen and Shirley dedicated much of their lives to education, working side by side to shape young lives. In 1960, they moved to Harvey, N.D., where Harlen served as boys’ assistant dean and taught physical education, and Shirley also taught at Sheyenne River Academy. Two years later, they relocated to Scottsdale, Ariz., where Harlen continued teaching physical education and serving as boys’ assistant dean at Thunderbird Academy, where Shirley also taught. In 1966, the couple moved to Campbell, Calif., where Harlen taught history and physical education while serving as business manager at Mountain View Union Academy, and Shirley taught English. In 1976, they returned to Shirley’s family farm in rural Austin, where Harlen farmed for three years before joining Maplewood Academy in 1979 as business manager and accounting teacher. In 1996, he started A1 Excavating with his son, Rusty, and grandson, Jason, finally retiring in 2017 at the age of 81. With an outgoing and fun-loving spirit, Harlen brought energy and warmth wherever he went. He had a true zest for life and a deep love for the outdoors, embracing snow skiing, snowmobiling, water skiing, and sports of all kinds. His greatest joy was spending time with family on vacations, at birthday celebrations, holiday gatherings, and especially at the family lake lot in Merrifield, Minn., where they enjoyed campfires, barbecues, and endless water sports. Harlen was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Jean Peck ’59, his parents, and many beloved pets. Survivors include his son, Ruston (Janiece) Peck; daughter, Rondell (Paul) Peck-Eilertson; grandchildren, Jessica (Michael) Lentz, Jason (Kristin) Peck, Ryan (Hanna) Eilertson, Eryn (Taylor) Henningsgard, Ethan Eilertson, Scott Walker (Mariah Tvrdik), Tanner (Abby) Walker; 12 great grandchildren.

Ernest Priddy ’55

08/17/1935 – 01/10/2026

Ernest Stacy Priddy, son of Oliver Priddy and Coral (Hoyt) Priddy was born on Aug. 17, 1935, in Madison County, Iowa. He passed away at the Gainesville Health Care Center, Gainesville, Mo., on Jan. 10, 2026, at the age of 90. Erny, as he was called by his friends, graduated from Oak Park Academy (OPA) in Nevada, Iowa, in 1953. He attended college at Union College, Neb., where he learned the printing business and met Dorla Roberts (’55), who he married on Sept. 25, 1955. Erny worked in the print shop business his entire adult life. A year was spent in Washington D.C. For 13 years he worked as print shop manager at OPA in Nevada, Iowa. This is where their three children were born. In 1969, Erny and family went to Puerto Rico as missionaries. They spent 10 years in Puerto Rico working in the print shop at Antillian College. The next two years were spent at a hospital in Avon Park, Fla., doing printing. In 1982, Erny and Dorla went as missionaries to Haiti for 12 years and ran the print shop there which was again connected to a Seventh-day Adventist college. The last three years of his mission work was at Montemorelos University in Mexico, again in the print shop. Erny enjoyed many activities such as riding his motorcycle, private pilot time, scuba diving, hiking, camping, and boating. He enjoyed singing, his church time and family time. In retirement, Erny and Dorla lived in Oregon, Iowa and more recently moved to Tecumseh, Mo., near daughter Diane. Due to health reasons Erny went to live at the Gainesville Health Care Center a little over a year ago. Erny was a member of the Next Step Seventh-day Adventist church in West Plains, Mo. Erny was preceded in death by his parents, one stepbrother, Carroll Chickering and one grandchild. Survivors include: wife, Dorla; daughters, Diane (Joe) Easterday, Jeanene (Clark) Gittings, and son, Kenneth (Patricia). Sisters, Valeta Peterson, Velda Johnson, Norma Ritchey; step siblings, Evelyn (Chickering) Mitchell, LaVanna (Chickering) Lambert, Steve Collins and Mike Collins. 19 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Frank Forbes, Jr. ’62

11/21/1930 – 01/05/2026

Frank Forbes, Jr. ’62 was born on Nov. 21, 1930, the fourth child born to Frank Sr. and Elsie (Appenzeller) Forbes.  He passed peacefully on Jan. 5, 2025. Frank grew up on a farm on the prairies of Eastern Colorado. He and his brothers milked cows and fed chickens and helped with the crops. In the Army (from 1954-1956) Frank and his brother Bob served as hospital medics at Fort McClellan in Alabama, working with soldiers who had contracted tuberculosis. After being honorably discharged they found their way to Union College, which they had never heard of before, even though they had lived only one state away.  Frank became an elementary teacher, a career that lasted for 35 years of teaching in mostly small, rural Adventist schools. Frank was married to his sweetheart, Myrna Banta Forbes (’57), for 61 years. During the years he taught in Tennessee, they cared for 16 foster children in their home. In 1979 Frank moved his family back to Nebraska, where he taught until his retirement in 1996. Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Myrna in 2019, his sister Winifred Forbes Carpenter, and three brothers: Merlin, Donald, and Bob Forbes ’61 and their wives.  He is survived by his children; Brian (Kiley) Forbes, Bruce (Lisa ’81) Forbes ’86, and Brenda (Gary ’84) Forbes Dickerson ’86; two grandchildren Kelti (Travis ’12) Dickerson Barcelow ’15 and James (Estelle) Dickerson ’18; a great granddaughter Rylie Barcelow; and many nieces and nephews.  He was 94 years old. 

Sharlene Wood Sloop (’56)

05/05/1935 – 01/03/2026

Sharlene Evonne Sloop, 90, died Jan. 3, 2026 with Parkinson’s disease. The oldest of three girls, Sharlene was born May 5, 1935 in Council Bluffs, Iowa to Ralph and Freeda Wood. When Sharlene was six they moved to Hoquiam, Wash., where she began piano lessons after a friend donated a piano to the family. She loved practicing the piano from the first day and no one ever needed to remind her to practice. They moved to a farm in Willow Springs, Mo., when she started high school. The farmhouse had no electricity or indoor plumbing! She graduated from Sunnydale Adventist Academy in 1953 and then attended Union College for three years where she met her future husband, Jay Randall Sloop. Jay graduated the morning of May 27, 1956, and they married in the afternoon. Their honeymoon was spent driving to Loma Linda, California where Jay was to begin medical school. She remembered pulling a one-wheeled trailer with all their belongings. During the medical school years, Sharlene worked as a secretary in a medical office. Jay graduated in 1960 and completed his internship in Los Angeles where twins Rick and Randy were born in 1961. The family moved to La Grande, Ore., for two years and then back to Los Angeles for Jay’s OBGYN residency. It was in Los Angeles where Sharlene began organ lessons and work as a church organist. The residency was interrupted by two years of Air Force service in Lubbock, Texas, where their 3rd son, Gregory, was born in 1967. After finishing the residency back in Los Angeles, the family moved to Yakima, Wash., in 1969. Sharlene continued playing the organ and piano and over the years was the organist at several churches in Yakima including the First Christian Church followed by Englewood Christian Church where she played for 26 years and the Seventh-day Adventist Church where she played for 50 years. She was a member of the American Guild of Organists and greatly enjoyed meeting and working with many musicians in Yakima and the Northwest. Sharlene was a lifelong Seventh-day Adventist and a member of the Yakima Seventh-day Adventist church for 56 years where she served the Lord faithfully. Her walk with Christ was steadfast despite tragedy. It shaped the way she lived, served, and raised her family. Her 57 years of marriage were cut short when Jay went missing in Kiev, Ukraine, on a medical mission — his body was found 2 ½ years later. Her beautiful home and yard were her delight and she could spend many hours tending the flowers — she especially loved roses. She enjoyed walking for exercise and for years she and Jay walked a 2 ½ mile loop each evening which included several steep hills. She was an occasional hiker and cross-country skier mainly to keep up with the family. Sharlene also enjoyed family drives to Mt. Rainier and the mountains nearby. Her greatest joy was always her family — and she especially relished summer afternoons when the grandkids came to swim and she could treat them to ice cream. She is survived by her three sons, Richard (Linda), Randal (Christine), and Gregory (Lisa); grandchildren Sasha, Jenny, Jeff, Katie, Jacob and Rachelle and seven great grandchildren.

Lester Leno (’56)

02/03/1935 – 12/26/2025

Lester Louellan Leno, age 90; born Feb. 3, 1935, Burt, N.D.; died Dec. 26, 2025, Walla Walla, Wash. Surviving: spouse, Heather (McCartney); sons, Gregory and Gary; daughters, Valeriejean Perry and Heidee Hanson ’07; 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren

Lillian Neuharth Hagen Roll (’43)

02/05/1927 – 12/26/2025

Lillian Hagen Roll (’43) was born on the family farm Feb. 5, 1927, the youngest of three siblings, to Kathryn Fischer Neuharth and Fred Neuharth near the little agricultural village of Minatare in extreme western Nebraska. She joined her older brother, Phil and sister, Selma. Lillian attended a one-room schoolhouse-known as Hope School, through the eighth grade. At the age of 14, she graduated from Shelton Academy, a Christian boarding high school in Nebraska. While there she met and fell in love with Harold Hagen. Harold joined the U.S. Army, Dec. 23, 1942, and was ultimately deployed to Europe. During this time Lillian attended Union College in Lincoln, Neb., one year, obtaining a Teacher’s Certificate. She taught in 1944 at her alma mater, Hope School, and then moved with several girlfriends to Kansas City to teach. After the war ended, she married Corporal Harold Hagen in on her 19th birthday, Feb. 5, 1946. Their daughter, Jean was born in 1947 in Scottsbluff, Neb., while Harold was waiting for orders to deploy to Japan as part of the occupation army after VJ Day, but instead he was reassigned to Ft. Warren Army Post in Cheyenne, Wyo. Their son, Ron was born there in 1948. Lillian spent the next 20 years as a military wife until Harold retired from the Air Force. During this time, she also taught kindergarten and worked for the civil service. In 1966 they moved to Orlando, Fla., where Lillian went back to college, earning her bachelor’s in Elementary Education and master’s degree in early childhood education at the University of Central Florida. She taught school in Orlando for the next 20 years, retiring at the age of 73. Harold Hagen passed away in 1983, and in 2002, she married Harold Roll. They moved to Ooltewah, Tenn., in 2009 and Harold Roll passed away two years later. In 2015, at 88, Lillian had a stroke and was confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. In spite of this handicap, she brought joy to those around her. Her warm smile, selfless attitude, and rugged determination to be as independent as possible inspired all who knew her. Lillian died peacefully on Dec. 26, 2025, leaving behind a host of friends and family. She is survived by her daughter, Jean Lomino (Joe) and son, Ron Hagen (Mary), her grandsons, Jeffrey Lomino, Jerry Lomino, Seth Hagen, and Corey Hagen and granddaughters Julie Farmer and Katie Hinson. She is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Van Knauss ’61

08/12/1938 – 12/23/2025

Van Devon Knauss was born in Colorado on Aug. 12, 1938, to Henry J and Elizabeth Zeigler Knauss. He died at home in Silver Spring, Md., on December 23, 2025 after living with multiple myeloma for eight years. Van spent his childhood on a farm in Aurora, Colo., and in Denver, Colo., near the ski slopes he loved. He earned a bachelor’s in Mathematics from Union College in Lincoln, Neb., a master’s in music from University of Nebraska (Lincoln) where he studied with Dr. Myron J. Roberts, and a DMA in organ performance from Catholic University in Washington, D.C., with guidance from Dr. Conrad Bernier. Van began his musical career in 1963 in New York City as organist for the religious television program “Faith for Today.” While in New York, he studied with Dr. Claire Coci. In 1967, Van became a professor of music (and later the department chair) at Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University) in Takoma Park, Md., and served as the church organist at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church. Over the years, he heard from many former students who remembered that he insisted on excellence, but was always warm and kind. During this time, he performed in recital and with collegiate choirs and orchestras across the United States and Europe. For more than fifty years he was the church organist at Hughes United Methodist Church in Wheaton, Md.. Later, he worked with Weichert Realtors in Morris Plains, N.J., and Bethesda, Md. Van’s greatest joy was his family. He taught his son Kris to ski when he was just five years old. Over the next 30 years, Kris and Van skied the major slopes across the USA, Austria, and Canada. He was delighted to invite his grandchildren for many visits to museums, fairs, historic places and annual beach vacations. In recent years, Van enjoyed attending frequent brunches around town with his family. Nephews and nieces from around the USA often traveled to spend time with him, too. In his leisure time, Van enjoyed studying and collecting Civil War items and American horse-drawn tin toys. He was a long-time member of the American Antique Toy Collectors Club. Van was preceded in death by his parents, his twin sister, Velmajean Robinson (’60), and his brother Carroll Knauss ’59. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Pat ’63; son, Kristen Knauss, his daughter-in-law Pearl Knauss; and three beloved grandchildren, Bria Warren, Sydney Knauss and Grant Knauss. He will also be missed by his nieces, nephews, their children and grandchildren, and a great circle of friends.

Leonard Argotti ’54

10/24/1932 – 12/08/2025

Leonard Argotti died on Dec. 8, 2025. Leonard was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on Oct. 24, 1932, to Leonard V. and Juanita Zapata Argotti. His older half-siblings were Ruben Flores and Linda Salinas. His father operated a general store where Len helped after school and on weekends. He told stories of using the deep fryer for making chicharrones and other items for his dad and frying up all sorts of foods that he experimented with! At about 17 years of age, he was baptized, along with his father, his cousin and a friend, into the Corpus Christi Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church by Pastor Requenez. Pastor Matar had been very busy working (literally, by sweeping the store’s floor!) with Len’s dad who had been agnostic. Len went to Lincoln, Neb., after graduating high school in Corpus Christi, to attend Union College. There he met the love of his life, Donna Marie Carlson ’56. Len was inducted into the U.S. Army in July of 1953. Donna and Len eloped and were married in San Antonio, Texas, their favorite city, on December 5, 1953. After they were married, he and a buddy were driven by Len’s family to San Francisco for Len and the friend to sail to Korea. It was not an enjoyable cruise for Len! When he returned home, he and Donna made their home in Lincoln where in 1956 they welcomed Juanita Jo, named for Len’s mother who had recently passed away. In 1958, she was joined by Leonard William and in 1960, Donald Dean. In 1962, Len moved the family to Maple Plain, Minn. He took nursing there in Minneapolis and began his nursing career. He did private duty nursing until moving his family to Yerington, Nev. in 1968, where he worked at the local hospital for a short while before deciding to work in a larger hospital in Reno. He moved the family to Reno after the school year was over. He also found time to take the Rural Nurse Practitioner course at the University of Nevada in Reno. The family also lived in Carson City, where Len took a job as the first nurse to work at the Nevada State Prison system. Len moved Donna and the boys, Juanita was at Union College, to Omaha, Neb., where he was able to pursue his dream of anesthesia, taking the nurse anesthetist course at Creighton University. After his graduation, he moved the family to Corning, Iowa, where he worked as a nurse anesthetist at the local hospital. During their stay there, both boys graduated from Corning High School. Leonard passed away first at age 21, and later Donald passed away at age 22. Leonard made it a priority to travel with the family, spending as much time as possible with them. They traveled to Hawaii, Florida, New York, and the Southwest. In his later years, Len did a stint as a traveling nurse, traveling to hospitals in Wisconsin, Texas, and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands! When he retired from traveling, he worked for a time with Department of Human Services as the overseer of medical and dental care of foster children in the Arkansas area. He spent many years in Greers Ferry in the house his father had built for Len’s step-mother and their adopted daughter, Irma. While they were all living in Arkansas, a brother, George Salyer from Texas, found the family! It has been a joy having another part of the family to spend time with. The first church Len and Donna attended in Arkansas was the Clinton Seventh-day Adventist Church. However, a need was felt for another church in the Heber Springs area, so Len, along with a few other people, began a church there, first renting a Baptist church in a beautiful location just outside of town. Again, Len saw a need for reaching the Hispanic community and Len and Donna moved their membership to the Batesville church to help there. In between, he attended and helped at the Conway SDA Church as well. He eventually, in March of 2022, needed to live at the Springs of Greers Ferry where he lived until he fell asleep peacefully on December 8, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard V. and Juanita Zapata Argotti; step-mother Edna Landers Argotti; half-brothers, Ruben Flores and George Salyer (Yolanda); half-sister, Linda Salinas; step-brother, Donald Landers; step-sister, Shirley Sivell; sons Leonard William Argotti and Donald Dean Argotti. He is survived by his loving wife, Donna ’57; his sisters, Mabel Migura (Dave), Laverne Landers; daughter, Juanita Argotti Stocke ’77 (Roy); granddaughter, Heather Griffin (Jeremy); great-granddaughter, Emily Rodriguez; and numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

Verla Liggett Beltz Schenk (’67)

04/20/1945 – 12/01/2025

Verla Liggett Beltz Schenk (’67) was born in Sterling, Colorado on Apr. 20, 1945, to Joseph and Nellie Liggett. She was the youngest of their five children. Verla attended Sterling public schools through eighth grade. She then attended Campion Academy for the next four years, graduating in 1963. She attended Union College before marrying Wayne Beltz ’67 from Keenesburg, Colorado. He farmed with his father until the farm was sold in 1979. They have four daughters – Angela Schwartz ’91, Lisa Beltz – deceased in 2001 (’92), Sheila Klein (’93) and Andrea Beltz. In 1981, the family moved to Lincoln, NE where Verla worked for Christian Record Services for 16 years. In 1996, Verla married Charlie Schenk from Roundup, Montana. They lived on his ranch for five years before they relocated to the Hickman, Nebraska area to grandparent Verla’s four grandchildren, Collin, Sami and Connor Klein and Andrew Schwartz ’23. Verla enjoyed playing the piano and quilting. Her greatest joy was her family and serving the Lord Jesus Christ. Charlie preceded her in death on Aug. 2, 2021.

Ralph Boyd ’54

05/22/1932 – 11/25/2025

Ralph Boyd was born May 22, 1932. He was married to Dorothy Gienapp. Ralph is survived by his wife, Dorothy, daughter Rhonda Ray; sons Randall and Steven. Ralph had five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Ralph practiced medicine in Glendale, Calif., for over 60 years and was retired at his passing.

Alberta Astner Murray ’75

02/11/1954 – 11/24/2025

Alberta Astner Murray ’75 passed away peacefully on Nov. 24, 2025, after a lengthy battle with cancer. She was 71 years old. Alberta graduated from Union College in 1975. She worked and volunteered at multiple Adventist institutions, including the schools where her sons and grandkids attended. She is survived by her husband, Nick Murray ’75, her two sons, Ben ’04 and Scott ’06, her daughter-in-law Brittany, her four grandchildren; and her two sisters, Karen Astner Beaver ’69 and Janet Astner (’71). She was predeceased by her parents William and Margaret Astner, and her brother Michael Astner.

Doris Stroup Bieber (’55)

09/12/1935 – 11/13/2025

Doris Stroup Bieber (’55) passed away on Nov. 13, 2025. She was born in Burke, South Dakota, on Sep. 12, 1935, to John and Catherine Stroup. Doris was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend whose memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She is preceded in death by her parents, John Stroup and Catherine Hull Stroup; brother, Kenneth Stroup; and sister, Betty Veit. She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Jim R. Bieber (’52); sons, Jim L. (Lanette) Bieber and Ken (Tami) Bieber; six grandchildren; as well as seven great-grandchildren.

Marilyn MacLafferty Bennett ’63

10/27/1941 – 11/09/2025

Marilyn MacLafferty Bennett was born at Portland Adventist Sanitarium and Hospital in Portland, Ore., on Oct. 27, 1941, while her father Gordon and mother Phyllis were pastoring the nearby Woodland, Wash., Seventh-day Adventist Church. At the age of two Marilyn and her family moved to Hawaii, where her father pastored several multinational churches for the next 12 years. Due to her father’s poor health, the family moved back to the U.S. and settled at Keene, Texas, for the next six years. Marilyn met Harry Bennett in the summer of 1959 when he returned from selling religious books in Virginia. His parents had recently moved back from being missionaries in Africa, and his father was Dean of Men at Southwestern Junior College. When Harry arrived in town, Marilyn was working in the men’s dorm as a secretary for Harry’s father. Over the next five years their friendship grew, and they were married in San Jose, Calif., on Aug. 16,1964. They both attended Southwestern Junior College (now Southwestern Adventist University) and Union College (now Union Adventist University). Marilyn graduated from Union College with a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics and Business Education. Marilyn worked that first year of their marriage as a secretary to two seminary professors, while Harry continued his education, pursuing a Master of Arts in Music Education at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich. Marilyn and Harry joined the faculty at a brand new christian boarding school in Georgia, Georgia Cumberland Academy, where they worked as music teachers for three years. The Adventist mission board then invited them to work in Brazil for the next 14 years. During those years in Brazil two children were born. Upon returning to the U.S., the only job they found was at San Diego Academy where Harry was band director for 12 years and Marilyn supplemented the family income by teaching piano in their home. Marilyn loved playing the pipe organ at Paradise Valley Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she was an organist for over 40 years. In the summer of 2024, Marilyn developed severe pain from compression fractures resulting from osteoporosis. In spite of the efforts of the medical profession, she was in pain and continued to decline until her death. She is survived by her husband Harry ’63; brother, Merritt ’60, two children Brad and Bonnie, and five grandchildren.

Frederick Anderson ’68

05/16/1946 – 11/05/2025

Frederick Anderson ’68 passed away on Nov. 5, 2025. He was born on May 16, 1946, in Clinton, Iowa. His parents were Clyde Anderson and Frances Davis Anderson. He had one brother, Robert Anderson ’65 and one sister, Karen Anderson Worrel ’69. In January of 1960, his folks bought their first home in the little town of Welton, Iowa. With his brother in the Academy and his sister in college they couldn’t afford to pay any more tuition, so he attended the Welton, Iowa school. For the next three years Fred attended Oak Park Academy in Nevada, Iowa. During this time his family moved from Welton, Iowa to Lincoln, Nebraska. Fred completed his senior year at College View Academy in Lincoln. Fred earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in biology, and minoring in chemistry and education from Union College in 1968. He also earned a Master of Arts degree in Biology, in 1972. Fred married one of his teachers at Union College, Margaret Erwin, in Angwin, California, on August 13, 1968. After a brief honeymoon in California’s Coastal Redwoods, Margaret and Fred headed for Sunnydale Academy to begin his teaching career. Many years were spent working in private boarding schools, so Margaret and Fred made a decision to not have any children of their own. Most of their time was consumed by educating other people’s children. At the time of his retirement on June 30, 2011, Fred had completed 43 years of teaching science in the Seventh-day Adventist educational system.

Sharon Davis Messer ’77

11/23/1953 – 10/30/2025

Sharon Marie (Davis) Messer ’77, age 71, Richardton, died Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center, Bismarck with family by her side. Sharon Marie Davis was born in Medford, Ore., on Nov. 23, 1953, to George A. and Virginie C. (Caron) Davis. At twelve years old, Sharon moved to Richardton, N.D., and lived with her sister Kathleen and brother-in-law Sheldon Fisher, who raised her, alongside Vaunda, Sheleen, Craig, and Shannon. She graduated high school from Sheyanne River Academy in 1972. Sharon earned her teaching degree at Union College in Lincoln, Neb., during which time she served as a student missionary to the Marshall Islands for a year. Sharon’s passion for teaching began at a young age, when she would teach her stuffed animals and her older sister, Diana. She went on to teach and substitute for over thirty years, teaching in North Dakota, Kentucky, and California, and finishing her career in the Richardton-Taylor school district. Her favorite color then became Raider Blue. Sharon loved teaching and creating fun, hands-on projects for her students. She came to life in a classroom. She strove to make her room a safe haven for her students. She had a special place in her heart for those who struggled in any way. She provided food, snacks, and school supplies for any student or individual in need. She always had a classroom pet and was known especially for her fish tank, which is still in use by a fellow teacher. Her passion was teaching, telling stories, and reenacting history, and helping children fall in love with learning. Sharon loved her fellow teachers and students. Her door was always open at home or school to anyone who ever needed it. Sharon was very active in her church, playing piano, telling children’s stories, and teaching Sabbath School for the children’s department and the adult class, and often found preaching the sermon. She has always been missionary minded and caring for others. Sharon also had a passion for writing. She published stories and two books early in her career and was in the process of publishing two more books that she wrote in the last year, which will be available soon. She enjoyed playing piano, reading, and crocheting. She loved being at the ocean, camping in the mountains, and especially loved spending time in the Badlands. She loved being with her family, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and was looking forward to more! After meeting in college, Sharon married Garry Wolf ’74, a fellow educator. They taught together in Kentucky. They later moved back to Dickinson, N.D. On July 18, 1986, Sharon married Gary Messer of Richardton.  They raised six children together. They had a foster child and a number of foreign exchange students over the years. It was also the home to many college students the children brought home on weekends and long breaks. She raised six children and was also a mother figure to countless others who looked up to her. Sharon is survived by her husband, Gary; children, Marcy (Pat) Kuntz, Jamen (Becky ’13) Wolf, Heidi Strain, Tony Wolf, Genie Messer ’13, Charlotte ’14 (Reed) Merkel; grandchildren, Cade, Coal, Calli, Lydia, Samuel, Jedidiah, Drake, Logan, Lilly, Aurora, Rylee, Canyon, Lincoln; and great-grandchildren, Ella and Darley, her sister, Diana (Earl) Palmer and multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Virginie Davis; sister Kathleen Fisher and brother-in-law Sheldon Fisher; and brothers, Clifford E. and George R. Sharon was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and had a strong faith and love for God. Even in her last days, she showed a selfless love for others, and one of the last things she said was a prayer for her children to stay close to Jesus.

Glen Wintermeyer ’72

12/09/1947 – 10/29/2025

Glen Wintermeyer was born Dec. 9, 1947, in Bemidji, Minn., he entered the world surrounded by pine trees, lakes, and the strong hands of his hardworking parents, Emmor and Fay Wintermeyer. His childhood was marked by the kind of small-town simplicity that builds both character and calluses. No matter where Glen lived, there was always sawdust in the air and a project underway. He loved building things—especially remodeling homes. Nearly every home the family lived in bore his craftsmanship: new cabinets, custom bookshelves, elaborate tree houses or carefully finished trim. He wasn’t afraid to tackle difficult projects, even ones he’d never done before. He’d simply figure it out and it always turned out right. Glen is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Karen Wintermeyer (’68). Together they shared a lifetime of love, laughter and service. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Jay Wintermeyer and his husband, Craig Conklin; Tad Wintermeyer and his children, Kendall, Raelynn, Weston, and Maisie; and Joy Wintermeyer and her children, Adelynn and Hudson. Glen is also survived by his dear siblings, Dena Wintermeyer ’73, Valerie Jacobs, and Robin Wintermeyer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmor and Fay Wintermeyer, and by his beloved son, Bryce, whose memory he carried tenderly throughout his life. Glen’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the homes he built, the stories he told and the love of his family who will forever cherish his steady hands, kind heart and joyful spirit.

Violet Boyko Zapara (’44)

04/21/1926 – 10/22/2025

Violet Boyko Zapara (’44) known to her family as “Vi,” died on Oct. 22, 2025. She was 99 years old. Her husband, Tom, had preceded her in death on June 16, 2024. Both were visionary, loyal, and generous supporters of Seventh-day Adventist education. Vi was born on Apr. 21, 1926, near Max, North Dakota to Ukrainian immigrant parents. Determined to become a teacher, she did not allow adversity—including the early death of her father—impede her preparation for this life mission.  After her graduation, she married Tom Zapara, a fellow Ukrainian.  They spent their lifetime as philanthropists: they sought to honor God with the assets with which divine providence had blessed them. Vi is survived by her daughters, Shelley (Jere) Fox and Cindy Zapara; her grandchildren; and her great grandchildren. An incredible friend and a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she will be greatly missed by the many people with whom she was deeply and warmly connected. Her contributions to humanity will only be fully acknowledged in heaven.

Elaine Rice Brasuell ’66

01/15/1943 – 10/17/2025

Dorothy “Elaine” Brasuell, age 82 of Centralia passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Oct. 17, 2025. Elaine was born on Jan. 15, 1943, in Denver, Colo., the daughter of Victor J. and Ellen May (Sorling) Rice. In 1967, Elaine married the love of her life, Charles Brasuell (’68). She is survived by her husband, Charles; son, Jerry ’95 (Janel ’01); daughter, Donna ’95 (Harold ’95) Burgeson; grandchildren, Eric Brasuell, Andrew Brasuell and Nathan Brasuell; Ellen (James) Clague; Elizabeth Burgeson; sister, Cathy Bechtel; nieces and nephews, Tina Batten, Jonathan Rice, Scott Bachtel, Jennifer Bechtel. Elaine loved her church family at Crossroads Community Church and truly felt at home there. Elaine enjoyed crocheting, playing piano, and guitar, singing, and collecting dolls. She could throw a mean fastpitch baseball in her younger years, and was very good at organizing, truly enjoying it her whole life. Elaine lived in many places throughout her life. As a young person, she lived in Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Oregon and Nebraska. After she and Charles were married, they lived in Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Nebraska, Kansas, South Dakota, Arkansas and Missouri. She and Charles would travel with their children to Oregon to help with church camp meetings for many summers. They loved traveling. As an adult, she finished school, becoming an LPN and working in various nursing jobs. Later in life, she transitioned and worked as a teacher. She was a remarkable woman and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Theodore Lam ’71

12/07/1941 – 10/01/2025

Nationally recognized supporter of Asian American ministry and church planter Ted Lam died Oct. 1 in Tulsa. “Our family is thankful for all the outpouring of love and prayers that have sustained us (after my dad’s passing),” said Lam’s son, Jed. In 1989, Lam surrendered to ministry and completed his theological degree from Oklahoma Baptist University. He then served as the Language Mission Specialist for the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma (BGCO) as he helped found the Tulsa International Baptist Church (TIBC). Lam also served on the Board of Directors for BGCO. After retiring as Director of Church Planting for the BGCO, Lam still served BGCO as the Outreach Team Consultant. In June 2016, Lam was elected president of the newly formed Asian American National Fellowship of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). He also supported various international ministries at Oklahoma City, Northwest and Oklahoma City, All Nations Church, as well as the TIBC. Anthony Jordan, who led the BGCO as Executive Director-Treasurer during Lam’s tenure at the state convention and worked closely with him as pastor of Oklahoma City, Northwest, said. “Ted Lam was a wonderful church planter, pastor and leader. He led the church planting ministry of Oklahoma Baptists with excellence. “His passion to see people of every ethnicity have the opportunity to know Jesus and worship Him in a local church resulted in some of the greatest days of church planting among Oklahoma Baptists. Ted and Jane were fully devoted followers of Christ and dear friends. He will be greatly missed.” At the news of Lam’s death, Jeremy Sin, Executive Director of the Chinese Baptist Fellowship of the US and Canada, said, “Pastor Ted was a great supporter of the ministry of the Chinese Baptist Fellowship of the US and Canada, having served in the Executive Board as a church planting ambassador for many years which. Through his leadership, many Chinese Baptist churches were planted in the last 20 years.” Ted had a sincere love for see the Kingdom of God grow in Oklahoma and the world.” Lam is survived by his wife, Jane; one son, Jed; daughter-in-law Michele and two grandsons and two granddaughters.

Patricia Dunn Caviness ‘59

11/18/1936 – 09/26/2025

Patricia “Patty” Ann Dunn was born Nov. 18, 1936, and passed away Sept. 26, 2025. Her parents, Robert and Edna Dunn were residents of Winterset, Iowa, where Patty grew up. She attended Oak Park Academy graduating in 1955. She went on to Union College in Lincoln, Neb., where she studied nursing and graduated with her R.N.B.S in 1959. Shortly after graduation, she was married and had two daughters, Cindy in 1960 and Beth Anne in 1962. She and her family resided in Denver and Boulder, Colo., until that marriage ended in 1972. Patty met and married the love of her life, Dr. Ted Caviness on July 28, 1977. They made their home in Vancouver, Wash., and shared a beautiful journey of over 50 years. The bonus of this marriage was the family that evolved, including Merrill (1956) and Alisa (1963). It was her big heart that was the foundation of this family. Her career included hospital nursing, office nursing for an orthopedic surgeon, director of nursing for a retirement home in Portland, Ore., and health care specialist for the State of Washington. Pat was always game for anything, she loved to sing and play the piano and she learned how to snow ski, enjoying many ski trips. She loved to travel including several mission trips that she and Ted made to South America and Thailand. She is survived by her husband, Ted; four children: Merrill (Pam), Cindy (Tom), Beth (Duane), Alisa (Bill); five grandchildren; Kent (Jacci), Ashley (Jesse), Cody (Suzie), Nicolas, and Tommy; five great-grandchildren; Bryton, Dylan, Julia, Luke, and Jasper. Patty was the queen of her family, living a full life with a huge heart.

Wendy Owen Doeh (’57)

07/04/1936 – 09/25/2025

Wendy Ann Doeh passed away Sept. 25, 2025. Born July 5, 1936, Wendy lived a life full of adventure, joy, and shared wisdom, touching the lives of many with her charm, wit, and warm heart. Wendy was an extraordinary woman, a lover of life and all its pleasures. She found solace in the simple things, like a good bar of chocolate, her favorite movie, “Gone with the Wind,” and the calming hue of blue, her favored color. She had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and an undeniable love for travel, exploring the world far and wide, making each destination part of her cherished memories, One of Wendy’s most beloved haunts included the King Harbor Yacht Club, where she would spend hours engrossed in sailing and socializing, among other things. The Getty Museum was another local favorite, her appreciation for art and history bringing her there often. Known for her grammatical precision, Wendy was quick to share one of her favorite lessons: “People are well, things taste good.” Indeed, she was not one to shirk her responsibility as a guardian of the English language, and many are better speakers today because of her careful instruction. She leaves behind a legacy of love and vibrant life. Her surviving family includes her devoted partner, James Lissner, loving daughter Tamara Doeh, cherished sons David and Cole Doeh, caring sister Shirley Chaffin, and brother Mack Owen. Her dear sister, Sally Contreras, and brother, Roger Standridge, also survive her, carrying forward shared memories of sisterhood and brotherhood.

Beverly Blair Wilson (’48)

10/22/1929 – 09/22/2025

Beverly Ann Blair Wilson was born Oct. 22, 1929, in Mason City, Iowa, and died Sept. 22, 2025, in Chattanooga, Tenn. When Beverly was five years old, the family moved to Madison, Tenn., where she lived until she married Bill Wilson ’50, in August 1949. The newlyweds moved to Lincoln, Neb., for a year while Bill finished college, then they lived in Chunky, Miss., for two years while working at Pine Forest Academy. Following that, they moved back to Madison where all three of their children were born. In 1958 the family moved to Fletcher, N.C., where Beverly raised the children and worked part-time in evenings at a hospital telephone switchboard while Bill was president of Mountain Sanitarium and Hospital. Their next move took them to Hinsdale, Ill., where they lived from 1963-76. At Hinsdale Hospital Beverly worked at the switchboard and in the patient admitting office while Bill served in hospital administration. She also was active in the Home and School program. The couple also lived in the Washington, D.C., area for three years. In 1980, the Wilson family moved to Orlando, Fla., where Beverly became “the face of Florida Hospital” through her work at the main-entrance information desk. Many people were impacted by her warm, friendly personality. The couple stayed in Florida until 2006 when they retired and moved to Chattanooga, Tenn., to be near children and grandchildren. From 2006 until present, Beverly volunteered at Samaritan Center, It is Written, and Southern Adventist University. She and Bill were generous supporters of education, and her open heart “adopted” many young people over the years. Beverly was an excellent cook, teaching this skill to her children and sharing it with thousands of people who enjoyed a meal in her home.

Lee Jensen (’56)

09/28/1931 – 09/21/2025

Lee Warren Jensen, age 93, passed away at Hope West Care Center in Grand Junction, Colo., on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025. Lee was born Sept. 28, 1931, in Spearfish, S.D. He was the eldest son of Clifford and Dorothy (Anderson) Jensen. He was raised in Wyoming and South Dakota. He attended Plainview Adventist Academy in Redfield, S.D. where he met his future wife, Patricia Bieber. Lee was drafted into the United State Marine Corps, and was based in San Diego, Calif., for two years. Lee and Pat were married in Tolstoy, S.D. on Sept. 27, 1953. Lee earned a general forestry degree from Utah State University. His career with the US Forest Service took him to Idaho, Colorado, South Dakota and Alaska. Lee and Pat adopted four children. Jay D., Francene, Michele, and Jeff. Lee and Pat were married for 67 years until her passing on June 19, 2020. Lee continued to live in their home in Grand Junction until his passing. Lee enjoyed family, hunting, fishing, camping, and cutting firewood. He was an accomplished horseman and trained most of his own horses. Lee is survived by his children; Jay D. (Twyla), Francene (DJ), Michele (Allen) Kites, Jeff (Melanie); nine grandchildren; several great1grandchildren; and one sister Marolyn (Gary) Hart. In addition to Pat, Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Dorothy; grandson, Brodean Jensen; brother Ben; and sister, Carolyn Johnson.

Robert “Bob” Romans (’57)

02/26/1932 – 09/18/2025

Robert “Bob” Romans (’57) died on Sep. 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born Feb. 26, 1932, in Erlanger, Kentucky, to Carl and Lida Romans, Bob grew up in Colorado and graduated from Campion Academy in 1950. He served two years in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict before completing a degree in music. Bob taught music in Adventist schools and later in the Lodi public schools from 1968 until his retirement in 1995, inspiring generations of students. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Carole; children Mark (Valerie), Beth (Toby), and Matt (Helena); stepdaughters Christine and Tara; five grandchildren; and siblings Marjorie, Kathy, and Kenny. He was preceded in death by his brother Jim and both parents. Bob’s love of music and devotion to teaching will be remembered by all who knew him.

Elaine Berglin Cook (’53)

10/17/1933 – 09/13/2025

Elaine Berglin Cook, age 91, of Blaine, Minn., passed away on Sept. 13, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents Carl and Marvel (Thayer) Berglin, brother Donald Berglin, and loving husband of 59 years Clyde Cook. Elaine was raised in Minneapolis with strong Seventh-day Adventist family roots and graduated from Maplewood Academy in Hutchinson, Minn. Following her high school graduation she attended Emmanuel Missionary College in Berrien Springs, Mich., and Union College in Lincoln, Neb. While attending college in Nebraska, Elaine met Clyde and they were united in marriage in November of 1953. They raised a loving family with memories centered around sporting activities, music, travel and time shared at their cabin in Outing, Minn. As the family grew, adding spouses, followed by eight grandchildren, the cabin provided lifelong memories for the entire family of fishing, swimming, camp fires, snowmobiling, dirt bike adventures through the woods, and ball games in the massive front yard honing the athletic skills of all the participants. Elaine devotedly served as an Elder at St. Paul First Seventh-day Adventist Church where she will be remembered for her inspirational children’s stories, directing the annual Christmas pageant and sharing her talent of playing the marimba for her loving church family. Love of music was always important to Elaine and on her initial Hawaiian cruise shared with Clyde, she discovered her passion for playing the ukulele. On subsequent annual cruises, she continued to hone her skills. In her recent years, she has truly enjoyed participating with the group “The Silver Ukes” who play together weekly and perform for many enthusiastic audience members throughout the community. Elaine provided a strong foundation for her family instilling a love for life, family and faith that will continue through each of us, for which we are eternally grateful. She is survived by her four children, Rick (Kim) Cook, Ken (Barb) Cook, Nancy (Ken) Fish and Doug Cook; eight grandchildren, Jim, Jennifer, Rickey, Corrin, Ryan, Colin, Justin and Lora; thirteen great-grandchildren Kendra, Hailey, Arabella, Teagan, Ryleigh, Adeline, Lincoln, Ava, Clayton, Kaylen, William, Bjorn and Lavinia (plus number 14 coming soon); and special cousin Donna (Wykoff) Haunch ’61.

Lewis Anderson ’59

03/04/1937 – 09/09/2025

Lewis O. Anderson, Jr., age 88, passed away Sept. 9, 2025. He was born March 4, 1937, in Ruthven, Iowa, to Lewis, Sr. and Alice (Bensen) Anderson. On Aug. 28, 1960, he married Mary Saba Swayze. Lewis was a pastor for the Seventh-day Adventist Church for more than 40 years, serving churches in Minnesota, Michigan, and Indiana. During this time, he also served as professor of theology at Sahmyook University in Seoul, Korea ,and Weimar University in California. He received his Doctor of Theology (ThD) degree from Andrews University.   He is survived by three children, Jonathan (Debbie), Eric (Donna), and Gina (Kim) Fong; two grandchildren, Holli Fong and Hongjune Lee; siblings, Ruby Baer, Rosemary Anderson, Charles Anderson; niece Cathy Matthews; and many other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Saba (’59); siblings, Gloria Rowe, Norman Anderson, and Wesley Anderson; and one grandchild, Hanna Fong.

Luella Nelson Doneskey ’52

08/06/1930 – 09/08/2025

Luella Corrine Doneskey passed away peacefully on Sept. 8, 2025, in Gilbert, Ariz., at the age of  95. Luella was born in Ruthven, Iowa, on August 6, 1930, to Edwin and Fern Nelson. After Luella graduated from the local high school, she studied at Union College in Lincoln, Neb., and earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing. After graduation, she married Dr. Paul Doneskey in 1951. They lived for three years in Telluride, Colo., operating a small hospital there and then moved to Cortez, Colo., where they lived for many years. Together they operated a medical practice and were active in the Cortez Seventh-day Adventist Church. Luella was preceded in death by her husband, Paul, in 1998 and by her brother, Bill. She is survived by her daughter, Roxanna ’76 (Milo ’80) Heinrich; sons, Gordon and Renard (Jayne) Doneskey; grandchildren, Jordan (Erin)Doneskey, Andre (Alexi) Doneskey, Camille (Joram) Matute, Devon (Dustin) Baumbach, and Sasha (Christian) Vasquez.

Christine Pfeiffer Allison ’02

08/12/1978 – 09/05/2025

Christine Pfeiffer Allison ’02 was born on Aug. 12, 1978, and passed away Sep. 5, 2025. Professionally a Physician Assistant-Clinical, she attended Sunnydale Academy in Centralia, Missouri, graduating in 1996, and later the baccalaureate and master’s program at Union Adventist University in Lincoln, Nebraska. Christine joins her mother Clare Kreutzer Pfeiffer, who passed away in 2012 after the same breast cancer illness. She is survived by her adopted daughters, Hannah (13), Emma (11), Cherilyn (8) and her father, Bill Pfeiffer (81), and his wife Jo Evelyn of Cleburne, Texas. Jo’s son Richard Sikes and wife Kimberly Sikes also mourn Christine’s passing.

Daniel Rebsomen ’70

10/03/1937 – 09/05/2025

Daniel Albert Rebsomen passed away on September 5, 2025 surrounded by his wife and children. He was born on Oct. 3, 1937, in his childhood home in Casablanca, Morocco. His parents were Andre E. Rebsomen, a Frenchman who remained in Morocco after serving as an engineer in WWII, and his mother was Gaetane A Arnone, granddaughter of a Sicilian Evangelical pastor. Daniel was a third generation Adventist, so when it came to being a pastor with a love of evangelism, Daniel followed his heritage. It was thus that in 1956, he went to Collonges-sous- Saleve, France, for college and then in 1958 on to Union College, Lincoln, Neb. At Union he had to learn to speak English while pursuing his other studies and although he grew up speaking French, Arabic, Italian and a smattering of Spanish, that was the hardest thing he ever did. While attending college Daniel worked in various fields of service including health care, customer service, teaching, and ranching. On August 21, 1960, Daniel married Sandra Lee Moller (’60), a Nebraska country girl, who was studying Education at Union College. Frequently throughout his life Daniel would say, “When I married Sandra, I also married a horse,” because for 30 years he kept his promise to Sandra’s grandfather to never sell Sandra’s mare, Maygold. The world grew bigger for them, when Daniel and Sandra added four children to the family and also began their careers that would span 38 yrs across nations and continents. Throughout the years Daniel and Sandra also welcomed 10 other children to live as part of the family. Daniel was an expressive, loving man, a born leader, and confident guide to his family. He was very hard-working, things got done when he was around. He was a keen observer of people and was most frequently correct in his assessments of them or situations. As a pastor he championed the denominational beliefs and organization. His talents included singing, cooking, photography, gardening, mechanics, horseback riding, and swimming. He enjoyed doing electrical work and refinished many pieces of furniture. His mother insisted that he was the only one who could iron clothes properly. His father taught him drafting skills. His handiwork can be seen in the interior design of the Beauvallon, former Quebec City and Smoky Lake churches, as well as in his retirement home. He also spent many summers spearheading development of church camps. Daniel served the Seventh-day Adventist church in the Arkansas-Louisiana, Nebraska, North Dakota and Wyoming Conferences of the U.S. He served in the Alberta, Nova Scotia, and Quebec Conferences of Canada. As a missionary to Africa, he served as Director of the Chad and Northern Cameroun Mission. He also taught French at the University of Nebraska and to elementary school children in his churches. He leaves to mourn: Sandra (’60), his wife of 65 yrs.; his daughter, ‘Gigi’ Brigitte Rebsomen (John de Beurs) and her daughters, Tiana Bruins (Jordan), Chantel  Caughlin (Darcy), Ashley Tymchuk and son Ayden; his son, Jean-Marc (Sonja Hackenberg) and his children, Darian Rebsomen (Dani), Brant Rebsomen, Dana Rae deTar (Seth), Katrina Grise (Terrance) ; and his daughter, Jeanine Rebsomen and her children, Philipp Kremic (Amanda), Nathaniel Kremic (Kristi), Adriana Schudlo (Ryan), as well as 6 great-grandchildren. He also leaves a brother, Jean-Paul and three sisters, Genevieve ’68, Solange, and Monique ’84. Daniel was pre-deceased by a son, Andre, his parents and a brother, Andre, and sister, Denise.

Sylvia Spaulding McCormick ’56

01/19/1934 – 08/21/2025

Sylvia A. McCormick (Spaulding), age 91, passed away on Aug. 21,2025, in Omaha, Neb. Sylvia was born in Fort Collins, Colo. to George and Alma (Bechthold) Spaulding. She was united in marriage to William (Mac) McCormick ’53 June 21, 1953, in Fort Collins, Colo. Sylvia graduated from Campion Academy in Loveland, Colo. and then from Union College in Lincoln, where she met her husband and earned her degree as an RN. Sylvia worked as a nurse at various hospitals and for many years at the Visiting Nurses Association in Omaha until her retirement in 1994. Sylvia was a devoted member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church and spent a lot of time volunteering and supporting the church. She loved traveling to visit family and friends, and doing jigsaw puzzles; but above all she loved spending time with her family and getting together for family meals. Those left to cherish her memory include her devoted children; Brenda Miner ’79, Mike ’81 (Colleen), and Carol ’83 (Garth ’82) Fletcher; and her treasured grandchildren, Katelyn Holmes ’09, Max Miner ’15, Grant McCormick, Kyle McCormick, Mackenzie Fletcher ’15, and Easton Fletcher; great- grandchildren, Lincoln and Delta Holmes. Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Mac McCormick; her parents, George and Alma Spaulding; and her brother, Jim Spaulding ’56.

Mel Bargas ’67

01/14/1943 – 08/17/2025

Mel Bargas ’67 was born on Jan. 14, 1943, the 11th child of Joe and Dena Trujillo Bargas. Mel was the youngest of five brothers, Joe, Charles, Jim, Rudy and Eddie, as well as five sisters, Marie, Claire, Josephine, Dena, and twin sister Marlene. He died on Aug. 17, 2025. Mel grew up in Colorado and went to Union College, graduating in 1967. Then he earned a master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling in 1969 from Colorado State. In 1969, Mel moved to Lincoln, Neb. in 1969 and stayed to work for nearly 40 years. He was president of the Rehabilitation Counseling Association of Nebraska and president of the Rehabilitation Association of Nebraska. In 1989, Mel met the love of his life, Victoria Schwab of Colorado Springs, Colo. They were married on October 5, 1991, after which Victoria joined Mel in Lincoln, Neb. until they both retired and moved to Colorado Springs in 2009. Mel is fondly remembered for his warm heart, the love and care he had for his family and friends, as well as his fabulous sense of humor! Mel was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings. Mel is survived by his wife, Victoria; his daughters, Sheri (Mark) Cimino, Nicole (Dirk) Ochs, and Mandy (Jeremie) Spitzer; stepson, Andrew Schwab; seven grandchildren; brother, Jim Bargas; twin sister, Marlene Bargas-Ulibarri; as well as many nieces & nephews.

Joan Peters Blair ’54

03/18/1933 – 08/11/2025

Joan Peters Blair ’54 was born on Mar. 18, 1933, to Henry and Katrina Peters. She passed away on Aug. 11, 2025, at the age of 92. Joan was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her children: Michael (Judy), Robyn (Kevin) Edgerton, Douglas (Gracie Kahler Blair ’82), and Beth (Loren Birmingham); eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind two beloved sisters, Louesa Peters ’48 and Marlene Keaton (’53).  Joan was eagerly awaiting Christ’s second coming and the joyful reunion it promises with her husband of seventy years, Mardian Blair ’54, and their son, Johnny, who both preceded her in death.

Milton Dick ’68

10/24/1946 – 08/08/2025

Milton Dick ’68 was born on Oct. 24, 1946, in Wichita, Kansas.  He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Aug. 8, 2025, in Greeley, Colorado, after a courageous four-year battle with colon cancer.  He faced his illness with resilience, unwavering optimism, and a steadfast spirit. Even while undergoing chemotherapy, he remained active and continued to find joy in hiking the Colorado Rockies alongside his beloved wife, Ruth (Houck) Dick.

Milton attended academy at Southwestern Adventist Junior College in Keene, Texas, graduating in 1964. He then went on to Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska to receive his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in 1968.  After his undergraduate studies, he attended Loma Linda University School of Medicine, where he met Ruth, the love of his life.  He graduated from Loma Linda in 1972, and the couple ultimately settled in Greeley, Colorado, where Milton dedicated his professional life to practicing anesthesiology at North Colorado Medical Center.   

Some of Milton’s many passions included: flying, hiking and skiing in the Rocky Mountains, photography, video editing and playing the piano.  He was active in supporting Adventist education and volunteering his time at his local SDA church.  He will be remembered for his generous heart, steady faith, quick wit, optimism, and enduring sense of humor. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched with kindness, compassion, and joy.  Milton had a strong faith and looked forward with eagerness to the soon return of Jesus Christ.  We all look forward to our blessed hope of the resurrection in which we will all be re-united once again! He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth; daughters, Marla Schauer ’95, Amy Reichert ’99, and Renee Cleveland ’04; their spouses and five cherished grandchildren; his brother, Doyle Dick ’67; sister, Helen Dick Burton ’74; and their immediate families.

Robert Knight ’63

12/18/1941 – 08/08/2025

Robert Knight ’63 was born Dec. 18, 1941, and passed away on Aug. 8, 2025. He was a lifelong member of the Berean church in Los Angeles, was deeply committed to his Christian faith, and a passionate supporter of Christian education.

Leonard Coy ’61

12/05/1936 – 08/05/2025

Leonard Coy ’61 was born on Dec. 5, 1936, and died on Aug. 5, 2025.  Prior to Union College, he attended Laurelwood Academy and Walla Walla University.  He graduated from Union in 1961 with a degree in Business Administration.  He married Erma Crofoot Coy ’59, and they were together for 65 years before he passed.  He is survived by his wife, Erma; and his children, Carmen Hardt, Karen Karnell, David Coy and Suzanne Coy (’80). 

Lois Michalec Prior (’50)

01/22/1930 – 08/04/2025

Lois Michalec Prior (’50) was born on Jan. 22, 1930 in Cedar Rapids, IA, and died on Aug. 4, 2025 in Loma Linda, CA. She is survived by Gary Prior, Cindy Prior; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Martha Reddy Robison ’56

04/14/1933 – 08/01/2025

Martha Reddy Robison ’56 lovingly known as “Marty,” passed on Aug. 1, 2025. She was born on Apr. 14, 1933, in her grandparents’ home to A.A. Reddy and Martha McCarty Reddy. Martha grew up primarily in Wichita, Kan., and graduated from North High School in 1951. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1956. While at Union College, she met the love of her life, Melvin Robison (’56). They were married on June 27, 1954, and shared a beautiful life together, raising three precious daughters: Brenda Marcotte ’81, Dian Larrew ’84, and Karen Sanchez ’87. Martha was a nurse at Porter Hospital, where she primarily served in the operating room. She also served faithfully as a secretary at the Denver South Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she was an active and devoted member for many years. Martha is preceded in death by her parents and son-in-law, Tim Marcotte ’79. She is survived by her daughters; sons-in-law, Michel Jay Larrew, and Dan Sanchez ’86; four grandchildren, Katelyn (Connor) Marcotte-Crawford (’13), Moriah (Andrew) McIlhany, Makayla Sanchez ’19, and Nathaniel Sanchez; and two great-grandchildren. 

Edmond Johnson ’69

01/06/1947 – 07/19/2025

Edmond Johnson ’69 was born on Jan. 6, 1947, and passed away peacefully at home July 19, 2025. After getting his Bachelor of Science at Union College, Edmond graduated from the University of Texas with a master’s degree in Sociology and was an instructor of Sociology and related disciplines at Barton Community College. His passion was to encourage students to explore the challenges of social dilemmas. He loved his profession and taught with care and respect for his students to successfully learn. Edmond and his wife, Naomi Blom Johnson (’71), shared their lives together initially in Texas and then in Great Bend, Kansas. He is survived by his wife, Naomi; beloved German Shepard, Captain; and several nieces and nephews.

Alice Dotson Spears ’69

12/07/1946 – 07/18/2025

Alice Spears, age 78, died Friday, July 18, 2025, at Katherine’s Place in Fayetteville. She was born Dec. 7, 1946, in Denver, Colo., the daughter of Bessie Olive Rice and Glen Norman Dotson. Preceded in death by her parents; brother, Glen and husband, Lane Spears. Alice is survived by her brother-in-law and sister-in-law George and Geri Spears, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. She was an ER nurse with the VA Hospital for over 20 years. Alice was a collector of porcelain dolls. She raised cats most of her life and helped many stray cats find forever homes. At Katherine’s Place you could always find her playing bingo with her friends. She enjoyed painting and many residents have her paintings on their walls.

Donald Beans ‘58

08/25/1935 – 07/06/2025

Donald Roy Beans, age 89, of Atmore, Ala., passed away peacefully July 6, 2025.  Donald was born August 25, 1935, to Lester Grant Beans and Hannah Mary Smith in New Castle, Wyo.  Donald attended the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science where he obtained a degree as a Certified Register Nurse Anesthetist.  He later retired from Atmore Community Hospital as a CRNA.  Donald was an active member of the University Parkway Seventh-day Adventist church in Pensacola, Fla.  Donald loved his family and friends dearly and will be missed greatly by them. Donald is preceded in death by his parents; his wife; Edith Pennington Beans ’55, and his sister; Ruth Leach. Donald is survived by his children; Connie ’82 (Tim ’81) Mercer; Cathy ’83 (Clark ’83) McCrain; Kevin (Linda); Troy ’89; and Jodi ’88 (Jim ’88). Eleven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Dorothy Stacey Snyder-Metzger ’54

10/31/1931 – 07/02/2025

Dorothy Stacey Snyder-Metzger ’54 was born in La Paz, Bolivia on Oct. 31, 1931 to her missionary parents, George and Mary Stacey. Dorothy and her husband Tedd Snyder ’55 served in the mission field for 17 years in Puerto Rico and Curacao. Dorothy passed away on July 2, 2025 in Berrien Springs, Mich. Dorothy was preceded in death by her first husband, Tedd Snyder, second husband, Arthur Metzger, and son, Donald. She is survived by her siblings Laurene Cleveland ’55 and Edward Stacey ’57; her three girls, Meredith (Walter) Snyder, Martha (Larry) Rentfro, Loretta (Mark) Howell; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Joan Sharp Bissell ’51

12/25/1928 – 07/01/2025

Joan Sharp Bissell ’51 was born on Dec 25, 1928, and died on July 1, 2025.  Joan was born into the big family of Grover and Esther English Sharp on Christmas Day, at their home in Beemer, Neb. As the seventh of eight children–and the youngest daughter–Joan spent her happy childhood immersed in the dynamic life of the family farm. Thanks to her vibrant and social spirit, Joan thrived in high school and participated in theater productions, played piano at the family’s Methodist church, roller skated, and worked as a soda jerk at the local drugstore. Determined to pursue higher education and despite familial resistance, Joan–with the help of her older sister Mary–convinced her father to let her attend college so long as she lived with her sister. She became the first daughter in her family to attend college and receive a college education. Joan began her studies at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, NE. During a summer trip to Yellowstone National Park after her first year of college, the Sharp family encountered a Seventh-day Adventist, a meeting that led many in the family to convert. Joan then transferred to Union College, where she met the love of her life, Gordon Bissell (’56). They married in 1951, the day after Joan graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. In 1964, Joan began her 30-year teaching career at the Washington State School for the Deaf in Vancouver, WA, balancing full-time work with raising her eight children. She also earned a master’s degree in Special Education from Lewis & Clark College in Portland, OR. After retiring in 2006, Joan and Gordon relocated to Walla Walla, WA, to be closer to several of their children. She is survived by her eight children and their families: Lee and Janet Bissell; Lewis and Conni Bissell; Linda and Tom Hickerson; Laurie and Lou Roosma; Lisa and Bob Paulson; Larry Bissell; Lavonne Bissell and Lou Urrutia; Lafe and Rebecca Bissell; 16 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Joan was preceded in death by her loving husband, Gordon Bissell (2017), and all seven of her siblings. 

Dana Briscoe-Cacioppo ’86

09/27/1964 – 06/29/2025

Dana Briscoe-Cacioppo passed away on June 29, 2025. She was a beacon of love in our lives and taught us so many invaluable lessons about kindness, compassion, and generosity. Words cannot express how much we will miss her.  Dana is survived by a daughter, Darby; one son and a host of family and friends.

Leo Herber ’52

07/27/1930 – 06/18/2025

Leo Herber ’52 was born in Shattuck, Okla. on July 27, 1930, and died in Scottsdale, Ariz. on June 18, 2025.  He lived to the age of 94 and was married for 73 years to the love of his life, Claudine Huber Herber (’52). Together, they raised five children and were blessed with seven grandchildren. His life was a legacy of faith, love, and gentle wisdom.

Jeannie Lawry Amos ’81

10/08/2026 – 06/15/2025

Jeannie Lawry Amos ’81 passed away on June 15, 2025, in Columbia, Missouri. She was devoted to her family, and nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her grandchildren. Jeannie’s love for her husband, children, grandsons, and family was unwavering, and she treasured the connections that bound them together. She is survived by her husband, Dewey; daughter, Clarissa Amos; her sons, Andrew and Kelvin Amos; two grandsons; her brother, Richard Lawry, and his wife, Regina Ready Lawry ’75. She also leaves behind her cherished friend, Cindy, along with extended family and many friends whose lives were touched by her warmth and creativity.

Leon Sanders ’59

03/05/1937 – 06/11/2025

Leon Sanders ’59 was born Mar. 5, 1937, and died June 11, 2025. Elder Sanders spent 46 years and seven months working faithfully for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He was a graduate of Ozark Adventist Academy and Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was married in 1957 to Doris Browning (’57), and they had three children – Ronald Leon Sanders, Cheryl LeAnn Beauchamp, and Teresa Lynn Hochstedler. Elder Sanders served on a number of major boards and committees and was not only a Certified Public Account but also a Certified Fraud Examiner. He was also an ordained minister of the SDA Church. Leon Sanders was preceded in death by his wife of almost 64 years, Doris; and his son, Ron. He is survived by his two daughters, and five grandchildren.  

Carter Trumble ’24

03/09/2004 – 05/22/2025

Carter Trumble ’24 died on May 22, 2025, near Greenwood, Nebraska.  Born in Lincoln on Mar. 9, 2004, to Christopher ’94 and Malinda Whitlow Trumble ’00 and big sister, Emma Trumble Essex ’24. Carter attended College View Academy and graduated with the class of 2022, after which he attended Union, where he earned an associate degree in business administration.  Shortly following graduation in May 2024, Carter enlisted in the Nebraska Army National Guard, attending Basic Combat Training and One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at Fort Benning (then Fort Moore) beginning in May 2024.  Carter graduated OSUT in October 2024 as a Private First Class Infantryman. Carter was a member of the College View Seventh-day Adventist Church in Lincoln and attended Adventist education from kindergarten on, making lifelong friends at every stage. Carter was known for his sense of humor and his devotion to weight training.

Bettie Brown Brooks ’65

12/22/1943 – 05/06/2025

Bettie Brown Brooks ’65 died May 6, 2025, at home surrounded by her family, after a brief illness.  She was born December 22, 1943, in Guymon, OK, to Byron G. and Mary Magdalene Froelich Brown, Jr. Bettie graduated from high school in 1961, and Union Adventist University, Lincoln, NE, with her bachelor’s degree in social work in 1965.  On June 4, 1966, Bettie married Robert L. Brooks, in Hutchinson, Kan.  She worked until she and Robert started a family, Bettie then stayed home to raise their two sons.  She eventually opened her own daycare, making a difference in children’s lives for over 30 years.   Bettie is survived by:  her husband of almost 59 years, Robert Brooks; sons, Russell and Ryan (Stephanie) Brooks; grandchildren, Emma and Faith Brooks; sister, Billie Meyer; brothers-in-law, Ronald Brooks and Randall Brooks; nephew, Monty Meyer; niece, Missy (Kenny) Thomason; and four great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, Doyt Meyer.

Carole Horst ‘63

11/26/1941 – 05/03/2025

Carole Horst ‘63 was born Nov. 26, 1941, in St. Cloud, Minn., and died May 3, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene, Ida. Except for a couple of years working in a day care, Carole spent her entire career teaching in Adventist elementary schools in Minnesota, Washington and 33 years at Lake City Academy in Coeur d’Alene, Ida. She is survived by sisters, Sandra Wood (‘64) and Patricia Horst ’67; and brother, Dan Horst.

Beverley McCowen Dunkin (’51)

03/18/1932 – 04/29/2025

Beverley McCowen Dunkin (’51) of Woodland Park, Colo, was born Mar. 18, 1932. She died Apr. 29, 2025. Beverley was preceded in death by her husband Donald Dunkin ’54. She is survived by four children: Dennis Dunkin ’76, Robert Dunkin (’84), David Dunkin ’91, Sharon Dunkin Hagopian ’87; nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Ralph “Ed” Connell ’64

10/30/1941 – 04/23/2025

Ralph “Ed” Connell ’64 born on Oct. 30, 1941, in Fort Worth, Texas, passed away peacefully on Apr. 23, 2025. He is survived by his devoted wife, Darlene “Tyke” Zempel Connell ’63; his sons, Steven (Sandra) Connell and Christopher (Stacey) Connell. Ed’s family also includes his beloved foster daughter, Teressa Luhaorg, sister, Marti Connell Schneider (’64), nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves behind many grateful students who benefited from his guidance and expertise throughout his teaching career. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Murrell and Iva Ruth Connell, and his brother-in-law, Don Schneider ’64. The legacy he leaves behind is one of love, laughter, and a lifelong commitment to education.

Melvin Axt ’55

05/03/1930 – 04/06/2025

Melvin Axt ’55 was born on May 3, 1930 in Goodrich, N.D.  Just one month shy of turning 95 years old, he passed away on Apr. 6, 2025, in Glendale, Calif.

Patricia Gober Sorensen (’50)

10/31/1929 – 03/29/2025

Patricia Gober Sorensen (’50) passed away at her home on Mar. 29, 2025. Born on Oct. 31, 1929, in Loma Linda, California, she was the oldest child of the late Jerry and Forest Askey Gober. Patricia was loved by her late husband, Dr. Eugene Sorensen (’50). Patricia met Eugene in 1947, and after dating for 5 days, they married on March 27, 1947. Eugene passed away on March 27, 2006, exactly 58 years since they were married. Patricia’s last words to him on their final anniversary were, “I Love You,” and he replied, “And I love you too.” Patricia lived a full and wonderful life as an RN, assistant director of nursing, nursing instructor, office manager, mother and friend. She was an active member in the Hanover Seventh-day Adventist church, and of the executive committees for both the Pennsylvania Conference and Columbia Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. She had a strong faith in Jesus her entire life and rests waiting for His soon return. She is survived by three children: Mark (Beverly) Sorensen, Penny (Mike) Kelly, and Lisa (Randy) Geske; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Tricia Dillaman; a grandson; her sister, Bonnie Grainger; and a brother, Dan Gober.

Wilma Jones Hepker ’53

11/01/1933 – 03/15/2025

Wilma Jones Hepker ’53 was born on Nov. 1, 1933. After graduating from Union College, she began her 53-year long service-oriented career as an educator, which included work in Arkansas, Nebraska, Lebanon, and Walla Walla. Dr. Hepker and her husband, Dale, first arrived at Walla Walla’s campus in 1972, and she was a pioneer in the development of their Social Work major. She was instrumental in the creation of social work departments in numerous other colleges and universities and was the recipient of countless awards and distinctions. She leaves behind a monumental legacy of excellence in thought, generosity in service, beauty in expression, and faith in God, in addition to many family members and loved ones.

Evan Swanson ’63

03/02/1940 – 03/05/2025

Evan Swanson ’63 died peacefully at home in Hutchinson, Minn., Mar. 5, 2025. He was born on Mar. 2, 1940, in Ute, Iowa. He spent his youth there, graduating from Ute High School in 1958 before attending Union College. At Union, he gained not only a secondary teaching degree, but also found the love of his life and best friend, Evie Johnson (’61). Evan and Evie were married August 17, 1961. After graduating in 1963, Evan took a job teaching at Maplewood Academy in Hutchinson, Minnesota. Over the next 57 years, he profoundly impacted the lives of thousands of young people who came through his classroom at Maplewood, teaching history, government, geography, chemistry, and biology. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mildred, and his brother Carlos Swanson ’57. He is survived by his wife Evie; children Bruce, Jill ’90, Ann ’94 (Brent Hill), and Sara Beth ’96 (Brent Lane ’96); grandchildren Charles ’21, Kyle, Alex, Anders expected ’26, Annika expected ’28, Harrison, Oskar, and Olaf; and several great-grandchildren.

Ann Gruzensky Bauer ’40

09/17/1914 – 02/09/2025

Ann Gruzensky Bauer was born Sept. 17, 1914. She passed away Feb. 9, 2025. Ann as born in 1914 in a sod house near Grassy Butte, N.D. Her parents immigrated from Russia around 1903, seeking freedom and an escape from their fear of an imminent Revolution. In the early 1920’s two men on horseback rode into their farm yard to share the news of a newly discovered Bible truth about the Sabbath. The entire Gruzensky family became Seventh-day Adventists and charter members of the Grassy Butte SDA Church. Ann was the oldest of five children who grew up on a farm 30 miles from the nearest public high school. Her parents moved the family to Harvey, N.D., when it was time for Ann to begin at Cheyenne River Academy. Her father took Bible and English classes, having never attended school past 8th grade, nor formally learning English. After graduation, Ann traveled 600 miles to Union College to become a nurse. Ann met Albert Bauer ’40 when they worked together in the college laundry. One of the highlights of their college experience was the close friendships formed with co-workers and the Dunns, their work supervisors. They lamented how they would all stay in touch after scattering across the country once they graduated. They created “the Laundry Letter,” now legendary for keeping the chain letter circulating for more than 75 years! It is believed Ann was the last surviving member of the Laundry Letter club. On Sept. 2, 1940, the day after graduation Ann married Albert and they lived and worked in North Dakota, British Columbia, Wisconsin, and Michigan during their careers and raising a family of four children. Ann experienced and survived the Depression, two World Wars, learning to drive when her oldest child turned 16 (they took drivers education and their licensing exams together!), and all the marvels of modern technology. She was one of the first Tupperware dealers in the 1950s, deciding there was more flexibility in direct sales than shift work as a nurse. Over the next 42 years, she was “the Tupperware lady,” driving a station wagon and training dealers, as well as being one of the top 25 sales leaders in the U.S. for many years. She realized her goal of providing an SDA education for all four of her children, including a college education with no student loan debt! Ann’s early life was one of hard work, so as an adult almost any reason was a good excuse for a party! Her family, friends, and neighbors were recipients of birthday parties, Christmas baking, and wrapped presents. Laughter filled her home. She remembered birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestone events with cards and baked goods or her raspberry jam. The Bauer family moved to Berrien Springs in 1966 and Ann became an active community member. Some favorite traditions were the 4th of July Pancake Breakfast and Parade, Camera Club, Garden Club, concerts, and traveling with tour groups. She and husband Al shared a lifelong goal of visiting National Parks, which grew into camping trips for their family while visiting relatives and or traveling for a work-related convention. In retirement, Ann and Al spent almost 20 years traveling in the U.S. and internationally, with travel to local and regional Michigan destinations and to every continent except Antarctica! They also enjoyed getaways in their travel trailer, then a small RV for “snow birding” and meeting friends at various destinations around the U.S. Their home was always a hub of activity. Over several decades they hosted high school girls playing in the Wisconsin state basketball tournaments, missionaries on furlough needing a temporary “home,” and then Andrews University international students feeling displaced and far away from family. Most of them have stayed connected through Christmas cards and phone calls from faraway places like Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Iceland, Canada, and Great Britain. Some of Ann’s favorite activities were sewing and crafts, gardening, and travel. She made a handmade quilt for each of her six grandchildren when they graduated from high school! She loved entertaining in her home and going for impromptu picnics at a Lake Michigan beach to watch those gorgeous sunsets, especially on Sabbath evenings. Ann was a deeply spiritual person whose faith inspired a healthy lifestyle and a positive outlook on life. She was genuinely interested in all the world had to offer and was a “lifelong learner!” She and her youngest brother started the “120 Club” many years ago. When asked what that was, she said, “well, based on science, if you take good care of yourself, there’s no reason you can’t live to be 120 years old!” It appears she almost attained her goal, only moving to an assisted living facility at the age of 105 after a serious fall. Ann was preceaded in death by her husband, Albert. She is survived by four children: Luanne Bauer (Liza), Bruce (Linda), Ken (Diana), Raelene Brower; grandchildren: Jeff Bauer, Heidi (Eric) Starling, Jen (Ross) Moes, Charisa (Eric) Clarkson, Ben (Kathy) Brower, Kirt (Kelli) Brower; great-grandchildren (who delighted in calling her “GG”), Connor, Kennedy, Kaylin, Avery, Bailey, Madelynn, Luke, Brett, Judah, Kai, Khloe, and Kenzie. Ann firmly believed in the gift of salvation and eternal life in Heaven. She talked often of how she couldn’t wait to be united with Jesus and reunited with her family and friends. How that hope has made it easier to say a temporary goodbye to her!

Jerry Nowack ’74

04/09/1948 – 02/07/2025

Jerry Nowack ’74 passed away on Feb. 7, 2025. He was born on Apr. 9, 1948 to Robert and Peggy Nowack. He attended Union College where he met his, then, future wife and graduated in 1974 with a B.A. in Theology and a Minor in Psychology. Jerry married Joanne Hamon (’72) in the summer of 1973 in Antioch, California and they were married for 52 years. Together they were a ministry team, beginning in Kansas. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Peggy Nowack. He is survived by his wife, Joann Nowack, sons Jared (Danielle) Nowack and Joshua (Courtney) Nowack; and grandchildren. He also leaves behind two brothers and two sisters (Ken, Regina, Lorrie and Mike).

Daniel “Danny” Harrom (’68)

03/11/1948 – 01/31/2025

Daniel “Danny” Harrom (’68) was born Mar. 11, 1948, to Louie and Marcella Harrom.  He passed away on Jan. 31, 2025, in Sacramento, California.  He graduated from Platte Valley Academy in 1966 and attended Union College for two years.  Danny then served in the US Army as a medic in Vietnam.  He received a Purple Heart award, as a result of a grenade exploding in a medic tent where he was working, but he providentially escaped serious injury.  Subsequently, he received a BS degree in Business Administration from San Jose State University.  He worked in Student Finance at Pacific Union College for several years.  Danny is survived by his two daughters, Tressa Ohler and Tamara Whitelaw, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and five siblings:  Cheryl Harrom Ingold ’68, David Harrom ’69 and wife Jan Page Harrom ’71, Brenda Harrom, Barbara Harrom Zumwalt ’75 and husband Richard, and Charleen Harrom Gerlic (’77) and husband Richard.

Derral Reeve ’78

12/22/1954 – 01/20/2025

Derral Reeve ’78 passed away on Jan. 20, 2025, at the age of 70, in Niles, Michigan. Born on Dec. 22, 1954, Derral’s life was filled with service, adventure, and kinship. Raised in an industrious family, he was the cherished son of the late Charles Reeve and Helen Lamberton Reeve ’72. Derral spent his youth surrounded by a large and loving family, forging strong bonds with his siblings Joy Fish ’69, the late Charlene Masters, the late Donovan Reeve, Barbara Eno ’76, the late Charles Reeve, Harold Reeve, and John Reeve. After graduating from College View Academy in Lincoln, Derral continued to feed his thirst for learning at Union College, where he achieved a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education, with an emphasis on physical education and science. His academic path didn’t stop there; his dedication to education led him to study through Loma Linda University La Sierra campus, where he earned his Master’s Degree. Derral wholeheartedly dedicated his professional life to the field of education. He served as a teacher, youth director, principal, and superintendent, touching countless lives with his unwavering commitment to student growth and success. Derral was happily married to Barbara Hill ’78. Together, they raised two daughters, Johanna (Braden) Pewitt and Sanna ’09 (Alejandro ’14) Ortega.

Barbara Meyer Kimzey ’59

10/22/1936 – 01/13/2025

Barbara Meyer Kimzey ’59 passed away on Jan. 13, 2025, after an extended battle with dementia. Barbara was born in Fargo, ND on Oct. 22, 1936, to Frank and Inez Meyer. After growing up in Fargo, she attended Union College in Lincoln, NE, graduating from the school of nursing in 1959 as a registered nurse. While working in Denver, CO she met Gerald “Gerry” L. Kimzey, a US Forest Service Engineer, while visiting her sister Carol in Kalispell. They were married on Jan. 16, 1969 in Sedalia, CO in the living room of the Douglas County judge, with her belongings already packed for the drive back to Kalispell. They set up their permanent household in Kalispell, where they have resided until the time of her passing. Barbara and Gerry traveled the world but took their greatest pleasure from spending time with friends and family. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents; sister Carolyn Meyer Korb; brothers, Richard and Raymond “Pete” Meyer; and daughter, Ann Kimzey. Barbara is survived by her beloved husband Gerry; sister Frances Meyer Sabbe; daughter Amy (Scott Berger) Kimzey; two granddaughters; and a multitude of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Jack Blanco ’55

06/17/1929 – 01/12/2025

Jack Blanco ’55 born on June 17, 1929, passed away on Jan. 12, 2025.  More info to come.

Ramona Heim Greenhaw ’61

11/24/1938 – 01/12/2025

Ramona Heim Greenhaw ’61 passed away on Jan. 12, 2025. Born on Nov. 24, 1938 to John Heim and Ethel Stewart Heim. Ramona was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and educator who left a mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She grew up on a farm in Cashion, Oklahoma. Ramona attended the local Cashion schools through the ninth grade where she made some lifelong friends and started playing basketball, a sport that remained dear to her heart her entire life. She continued her education at Southwestern Academy and Jr. College and attended Southern Adventist College in Tennessee for one year before transferring to Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she earned at BS in Education and Home Economics, which became the foundation of her lifelong commitment to teaching and learning. She later earned a Master’s degree in Education from Michigan State University. At the age of 13, at church in Oklahoma City, Ramona unexpectedly crossed paths with a young man named Jerry Greenhaw ’69. At the age of 22 Ramona finally married Jerry on July 24, 1960. Together they raised four children: Brian (Melissa) Greenhaw, Steven (Nora) Greenhaw, Cindy (Wil) Reyna and Susan (Richard) Moth. Ramona’s family was her pride and joy and she took immense pleasure in watching it grow to include 14 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom survive her and will carry on her legacy of love.

Luis Reyes ’04

05/09/1982 – 01/09/2025

Luis Reyes ’04 was born on May 9, 1982, in El Salvador, and passed away on Jan. 9, 2025. Luis grew up in Siloam Springs, AR, and attended Ozark Elementary School, followed by Ozark Adventist Academy, and later graduated from Union College. As the Business Manager at Madison Academy, Luis’s work reflected his values—compassion, integrity, and a deep belief in the importance of service. Luis is survived by his wife and high-school sweetheart of 25 years, Nicole Cheeks Reyes ’04; daughters, Addison, Delaney, and Harper Reyes; brother, Jorge (LaTara) Reyes; nephews; family members, Jim and Eva Cheeks, Jimbo and Shelley Cheeks, Randy and Tomi Cheeks, Kristi and Jason White, Travis ’04 and Melinda Cheeks ’04 Whitlow; and numerous cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Luis and Ofelia Reyes, and his mother-in-law, Carafaye Green Cheeks ’66.

Mike Korgan (’60)

07/14/1939 – 01/07/2025

Mike Korgan (’60) died on Jan. 7, 2025.  He was born on July 14, 1939, in a two-room farmhouse on his family’s dairy farm in Moore, Okla. He attended high school at the Ozark Academy in Gentry, Ark, and then attended Southwestern Union College when his family moved to Keene, Texas. In the late 1950s, he moved to Lincoln, Neb. to attend Union College where he majored in music and radio engineering. While in Lincoln, he fell head-over-heels with and married Carol Codr on Nov. 19, 1960. Mike is survived by his wife, two sons, daughter, daughter-in-law, and three grandsons.

Marvin Nick ’53

05/31/1929 – 01/02/2025

Marvin Nick, born May 31, 1929, in Mobridge, S.D., died April 2, 2025. Survivors: wife, Margaret (’50); children, Kevin, Nick, Kelly Wilson; sister, Catherine Guthrie; two grandchildren.

Dennis Wolfe (’64)

07/26/1940 – 12/28/2024

Dennis Wolfe (’64) was born on July 26, 1940, to Joseph and Nora Schlak Wolfe, and passed away on Dec. 28, 2024. He grew up on a farm near Mission Hill, South Dakota. When he graduated high school from Oak Park Academy in Nevada, Iowa, he attended Union College. There he met Loretta Koch (’64) and they were married on Aug. 9, 1964. Dennis was a lifelong member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and served as the head elder for the church in Yankton for many, many years. Dennis is survived by his wife, Loretta; son, Robert ’90 (Carrie Chapman ’91) Wolfe; two nieces and one nephew, as well as great-nieces and nephews. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; and one brother.

Marilyn Clark Stearman (’61)

04/09/1940 – 12/15/2024

Marilyn Clark Stearman (’61) passed away on Dec. 15, 2024, while hospitalized for pneumonia following a period of declining health. Marilyn was born Apr. 9, 1940, to Earl and Grace Clark at their winter home near Mission, Texas. She spent most of her childhood on their wheat farm in Harvey County, Kansas. Marilyn spent four happy high school years at Enterprise Academy in Kansas, and studied nursing at Union College for two and a half years prior to her marriage to Jere Stearman ’62 in 1960. She was preceded in death by her parents and four older siblings: Celia George ’57, Esther Bates ’55, Violet Cruz ’56, and Glenn Clark ’70; her oldest brother, Ernest Clark ’53, outlived her by one day. Marilyn’s husband of nearly 53 years, Jere K. Stearman, died in 2013. She is survived by their children, Kathy (David) Pflugrad and Kent Stearman ’85. Also surviving her are numerous nieces and nephews.

Beverly Beem ’67

10/08/1944 – 12/09/2024

Beverly Beem ’67 passed away on Dec. 9, 2024. Beverly was born on Oct. 8, 1944, to Thelma and Kenneth Beem. She graduated from Union College and earned her Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska in 1974. In 1976, she joined the faculty of the English department at Walla Walla College (now University). She retired in 2015 with the status of Emeritus Professor of English and continued to be actively involved in her scholarship and the community. In addition to her work as a scholar and teacher, Beverly served significant roles at the Walla Walla University Church. She is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by three stepsisters, Carolyn Lacy, Claire Reid, and C. Louise Coy; cousins, and her beloved poodle named Story.

Holdsworth Howson ’68

12/01/1939 – 12/07/2024

Holdsworth Howson passed away Dec. 1, 1939. He is survived by his wife, Veronica E. Campbell-Howson; three daughters, Michelle (Albert) Blake, Renee Howson, and Charmaine Stevenson; four grandsons, Tyler, TJ, Spencer, and Blesshim; one granddaughter, Sterling; one great grandson, Blake; six brothers, Lowell, Milton, Roy, Wayne (Sonia), Baldwin, and Steve; four sisters, Cecily, Norma (Russell), Lileith, and Elynn (Michael); and a host other loving relatives and friends.

Anna “Jane” Camp Storey ’63

12/14/1937 – 12/05/2024

Anna “Jane” Camp Storey ’63 passed away on Dec. 5, 2024.  She was born in Fargo, N.D., on Dec. 14, 1937, and was adopted by the doctor who delivered her. Jane originally taught biology, P.E., and other classes at College View Academy in Lincoln. After that, she procured labor contracts for persons with intellectual disabilities for many years. She then worked many more years at the Lancaster County Health Department. Jane has two children, Alyssa Storey and Eric Storey.

Elizabeth Swayger Culver ’64

06/25/1942 – 12/03/2024

Elizabeth Swayger Culver ’64 born June 25, 1942, in Hot Springs, AR, died Dec. 3, 2024, in Hendersonville, NC. Elizabeth graduated from Southwest Junior College in Texas and earned her bachelor’s degree from Union College. She later obtained a master’s degree in public health from Loma Linda University in California. She worked as a full-time teacher while her husband, Don, was in medical training in California. Culver was also a former member of the Foundation Board of AdventHealth. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Donald Culver ’64, M.D.; two sons: Mark and Monte. She was preceded in death by her parents: Edward and Selma Belding Swayger.

Velma Dutton Shultz Burns (’60)

01/07/1940 – 11/30/2024

Velma Dutton Shultz Burns (’60) was born Jan. 7, 1940, and died Nov. 30, 2024.   Velma was the oldest of five children born to Roy and Gwendolyn Lemon Dutton.  She attended Adventist schools before enrolling at Union College in 1958.  She chose Union because she could live with her aunt and uncle, John and Gertrude Lemon Mayer, who managed the book bindery.   Velma married Alfred Shultz ’49,’61 and they moved to Topeka, Kansas, where Alfred served the Church for many years.  Their marriage ended in divorce after 27 years, and with four children.  Velma then married Kenneth “Curly” Burns, and they lived near Topeka for 24 years until Curly’s death.  After that, Velma went to live with her daughter’s family in Texas.   Survivors include daughters Carol Shultz Allred (’81) and Myrna Shultz Carpenter (’83); sons Joseph Shultz (’89) and Jonathan Shultz (’90); four grandchildren; three great-granddaughters; a stepdaughter, Kathy Kaesewurm; four siblings; sister-in-law, Rose Chaney Shultz Binder (’62); and extended family and friends.

Jack Nay ’58

12/23/1929 – 11/27/2024

Jack Nay ’58 died Nov. 27, 2024. He was born Dec. 23, 1929, in Kalamazoo, Mich., the son of Raleigh and Pauline Houghtaling Nay. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea during the Korean War, and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. Jack was a graduate of Union College and went on to receive a master’s degree in social work from the University of Nebraska. He worked at the Battle Creek V.A. Hospital for nearly 15 years, and retired from V.A. Hospital in Murfreesboro, Tennessee before returning to Battle Creek. On Feb. 17, 1952, he married Geraldine Mayer in Lincoln, Neb. Together they enjoyed traveling, having been to all 50 states, most of those on a motorcycle. Jack was preceded in death by his wife on May 8, 2022, a sister Joan Nay, two brothers James and Joseph Nay, and granddaughter Yvonne Ahlberg Elmore. He is survived by two children: John (Judy) Nay and Karen (Denny Olson) Nay; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and multiple nieces and nephews.

Shirley Aultfather Peck ’59

12/24/1936 – 11/13/2024

Shirley Jean Peck, age 87, of Austin, Minn., passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Shirley was born on Dec. 24, 1936 in Austin, Minn., the only child of Myron and Florence (Carle) Aultfather. She attended school in Austin through the 10th grade and then transferred to Maplewood Academy in Hutchinson, Minn., where she graduated in 1955 as valedictorian. She went on to major in English at Union College (now Union Adventist University) graduating in 1959. Shirley was united in marriage to Harlen Peck ’59 on June 30, 1957 at the First Congregational Church in Austin. In 1960, Shirley and Harlen moved to Harvey, N.D., where she taught home economics at Sheyenne River Academy. Two years later, they moved to Scottsdale, Ariz., where she continued to teach home economics at Thunderbird Academy. In 1966, they moved to Campbell, Calif. She taught English at Mountain View Academy in Mountain View, Calif. They made their last move in 1976 to Shirley’s family farm in rural Austin. She attended the nursing program at Riverland Community College. Shirley began teaching at Riverland in 1979 and retired in 1998. She touched numerous lives throughout her years of teaching. She was a much loved and appreciated educator. Family was Shirley’s main focus throughout her whole life. She enjoyed spending time together on vacations, during holidays, celebrating birthdays and having barbecues together. She loved animals, especially dogs and cats, and she enjoyed boating, gardening, and baking and cooking for her family. Her faith was important to her and her belief in Jesus played a significant role in her life. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who will be dearly missed. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her father and mother in-law, and many beloved pets. Shirley is survived by her husband of 67 years, Harlen Peck ’59; son, Ruston (Janiece); daughter, Rondell (Paul) Peck-Eilertson; grandchildren, Jessica (Michael) Lentz, Jason (Kristin) Peck, Ryan (Hanna) Eilertson, Eryn (Taylor) Henningsgard, Ethan Eilertson, Scott Walker (Mariah Tvrdik) and Tanner (Abby) Walker; 11 great grandchildren (with another on the way).

Ira Lee Blackburn ’74

10/11/1935 – 11/11/2024

Ira Lee Blackburn passed away Nov. 11, 2024, in Fruitland, Idaho. He was born on October 11, 1935 in Englewood, Kan., to Ralph Harold and Florence Luvene (Smith) Blackburn. He joined one brother and two sisters, Ruth Loretta, Lorenza Bel, and Harold Vernon. Ira was joined by brother Ralph Helton and the last brother Orville Phillip. In the sping of 1937, the family moved to Craig, Colo., where they lived for the next several years. Adopting Lorenza’s son Helton Lee. Ira began school in a small country school at Fortification Creek, then Walden. Finishing the elementary years in the Craig schools through the ninth. He finished his high school days at Campion Academy, graduating in 1954. While attending Campion he met a very lovely young woman, Winifred Forshee, and she agreed to become his life companion. They were married June 6, 1955. To this union were born three sons. Thomas Lee, Donald Wayne, and Ronald Dale. Then in 1994 they adopted Kendra Michelle. Ira spent two years in the Army from 1955 to 1957. Being part of the Whitecoats, in Washington DC, he participated in the sleep depravation project. Ira worked at various jobs: JJ Stanton transportation on the dock; Loveland Broom Co. for nine years, Lincoln broom factory, for seven years, at which time Ira went on to college and earned his bachelor’s in business education. He taught for two years and did accounting at Sheyenne River Academy. He was then called to Oak Park Academy to head up the Broom Factory. He taught for two years at Burwell, Neb., and spent time at LaVada Mission. He canvassed and worked in various types work: a hearing aid specialist and driving trucks until he retired in 2010. Ira was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and both sisters. Ira is survived by his wife, Winifred; sons, Thomas, Donald, Ronald, daughter Kendra, nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Ruth Kainer Gascay ’57

08/10/0934 – 10/09/2024

Ruth Kainer Gascay ’57 passed away on Oct. 9, 2024, at the age of 90. She was predeceased by her husband Stephen Gascay. She is survived by: her children, Dana and Doug; her siblings, Marie and Gordon; her grandchildren, Hunter, Allie, Skyler, Jordyn, and Madison; and her great grandchildren, Charlotte, Henry, Teddy, Jack, Nora, Joanna, and Lucas. She is also survived by many nieces & nephews.

Leslie “Les” Sturgis ’74

12/10/1951 – 10/03/2024

Leslie “Les” Paul, age 72; born Dec. 10, 1951, Jacksonville, Fla.; died Oct. 3, 2024, Forest Grove, Ore. Surviving: spouse, Cheryl ’74 (McCune); son, Matthew; daughter, Melissa Sturgis; brothers, Rex and Peter.

Margaret “Elyse” Kennedy File ’78

12/14/1954 – 08/01/2024

Margaret “Elyse” Kennedy File ’78 was born to Homer and Margaret Kennedy on Dec. 14, 1954. She died on Aug. 1, 2024. She grew up with two sisters in the home, Betty and Linda. She attended school K-12 at Orangewood Academy in Garden Grove, California, and later attended Union College as an English major. She then taught at Orangewood Academy for the High School English Department for 5 years prior to moving to Kansas. On Oct. 9, 1983 she was married to Randy File in Beloit, Kansas. They had two children: Mallory and Alex. Mallory’s son, Jaxson McGinnis joined the family in 2010. Elyse was preceded in death by her parents; her two sisters; and a niece and a nephew.

Roger Quast (’59)

06/22/1939 – 06/16/2024

Roger Quast (’59) born on June 22, 1939, in Ellendale, ND, died on June 16, 2024 in Bismarck, ND. A member of the Bismarck Church, he was preceded in death by his wife, Karene and a sister. Survivors include daughter Moneé; sons Mark, Michael, and Marlo, one sister; five grandchildren; many foster grandchildren. 

Robert Bischoff ’66

07/25/1941 – 06/09/2024

Robert Bischoff ’66 was born to Joe and Esther Bischoff on July 25, 1941. He passed away on June 9, 2024. Robert spent the majority of his young life in Keene, Texas, along with his two sisters Barbara Bischoff Koobs ’66 and Juanita Bischoff Ballew ’70. While attending Union College, he met the love of his life, Vernelda Johnson ’65. They were married on July 6, 1965. After moving back to Keene, they were blessed with two children. Robert spent the majority of his life working at the family business, Keene Pharmaceuticals. Robert is survived by his two children, son Robert Bischoff and daughter Traci (Kiff) Barker, two grandchildren, sister and brother-in-law Barbara and John Koobs ’63, as well as nieces and nephews, and many loving cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and sister and brother-in-law Juanita and Garland Ballew.

Sylvia “Kristy” Hargreaves Bartlett ’91

06/03/1966 – 04/10/2024

Sylvia “Kristy” Hargreaves Bartlett ’91 passed away on April 10, 2024, in Walla Walla, Wash. She was born in Holyoke, Colo., on June 3, 1966, to James Hargreaves (’61) and Carol Rutan Hargreaves (’59). She grew up on the family farm and ranch outside Holyoke, Colo., where she then attended Campion Academy in Loveland, Colo., for her high school years. She obtained her BSN from Union College in Lincoln, Neb., in 1991, before moving to the Walla Walla valley in 1998. In 2006, she married the love of her life: Dwight Bartlett. She was also an active member in the Eastgate SDA church. She is survived by her mom Carol, her brother Robert Hargreaves, her daughter Brittany Minden Parker and son-in-law Zach Parker, her son David Minden, her stepsons Rolie Bartlett and family, and Clark Bartlett and family, and her husband Dwight Edwin Bartlett.

Lloyd Herr ’52 and LaVerne Vietz Herr ’50

07/15/1930 – 06/20/2023

Lloyd Herr ’52 and LaVerne Vietz Herr ’50 passed away within days of each other at their home in Vancouver, WA.  Lloyd was born July 15, 1930 in McClusky, North Dakota, and he died on June 20, 2023. He was #9 out of 12 children. LaVerne was born March 27, 1930 in Cleveland, North Dakota, and died on June 24, 2023. She was oldest of 4 children. Lloyd and LaVerne met at Sheyenne River Academy in Harvey, North Dakota. After graduating, LaVerne taught at a small school while Lloyd continued his education to become a minister at Union College, in Lincoln, Nebraska. They were married in Clear Lake, Wisconsin on August 7, 1950. During their married lifetime they served over 68 churches in 5 different states starting with Wisconsin, Michigan, Washington, Oregon and Hawaii. They were known for their love of music and enjoyed singing duets. They leave behind a legacy of God’s Great Love.

Brian Heibert (’88)

06/29/1966 – 08/31/2022

Brian Heibert (’88) was born July 29, 1966, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Adopted, along with his sister, by Pastor Hiebert’s family in 1975. Brian attended RRVJA in Winnipeg, Parkview Adventist Academy in Alberta, and Union College in Nebraska. Brian ran his own business, That’s a Nice Closet, Inc., design and installation of spectacular cabinetry. He was outgoing with a great sense of humor, and had a way of making the world around him a happier place. Brian is survived by his mother, two brothers, one sister, one son, and twin daughters.

Lynda Joy Harvard Krenzler

06/08/1949 – 03/15/2022

Lynda Joy Harvard Krenzler passed away peacefully at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre on March 15, 2022, at the age of 72, surrounded by her children. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Darrel, and children Joe (Lila), Patty (Chris), John, Len (Songsil), Lorine (Travis); her grandchildren Oneen, Carter, Halen, Cassidy, Cyler, Gracie, Emersyn, Carsyn, and Cooper. She is also remembered by her siblings, Mary and Victor; numerous nieces and nephews; and many more family members and friends. Lynda is predeceased by her brother Peter, and sister Anne.

Norma Jeanne Goins DeAllen-Hartsfield ’56

09/18/1934 – 01/15/2022

Norma Jeanne Goins DeAllen-Hartsfield ’56 was born Sep. 18, 1934 in Idaho to Edward and Ethel Goins.  She passed away on Jan. 15, 2022.  Jeanne became a registered nurse with her degree from Union.  In 1962, she taught nursing assistants, and in 1995, she earned a Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology.  She worked with incest survivors until her retirements in 2006.  Jeanne was predeceased by her husband of 22 years, Arnett Hartsfield, two step-daughters, two sisters, and three brothers.  She is survived by her sister, Ruth; daughter, Sharyna (Ron) Reece; three step-children; and a host of grandchildren; nieces and nephews; extended family; and many beloved friends. 

Elsie Schlup Ward ’55

06/23/1930 – 06/08/2021

Elsie (Schlup) Keiper Ward, age 90, of Weslaco, Texas, passed away at home on June 8, 2021, with her daughters by her side. She was born June 23,1930 in Newcastle, Wyo., to Tracy and Leota Schlup and was the second of their six children. She was also fortunate to have two half-brothers from her father’s second marriage. Elsie spent her early years on the family homestead in Wyoming. The family moved to Colorado where she attended Campion Seventh Day Adventist Academy, and later Union College in Lincoln, Neb., graduating with her nursing degree in 1955. She married Henry Keiper in 1958. They were blessed with four daughters, Lori, Linda, Gretchen and Janet. The family initially lived in Keene, Texas, and had the opportunity to relocate to Hawaii, where they lived for eight glorious years. They settled in Weslaco in 1973, where Henry continued his career as a school principal for Seventh-day Adventist Schools until his death in 1977. Elsie and her second husband, John Ward were married in 1991. John was also an educator with the Seventh-day Adventist Schools and was a volunteer chaplain at Knapp Medical Center. Their shared faith and commitment to service, as well as their love of travel and adventure provided them with 15 years of joy together. Elsie’s nursing career spanned 45 years. She was a natural leader and enjoyed teaching others. She was employed at Knapp Medical Center for over 25 years, as the head nurse for the medical wing and later the director of Knapp Home Health. Elsie was an accomplished vocalist and musician, seamstress, knitter, gardener, and cook. She loved to travel, and visited 49 of the 50 States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Panama, Venezuela, and Hong Kong, to name a few. She was a woman of deep faith and served as the church organist at Weslaco Seventh-day Adventist Church for over 45 years. Elsie is preceded in death by her parents Tracy Schlup and Leota Butz; her first husband Henry Keiper and second husband John Ward; siblings Tracy Jr, Robert, Elaine, Jim and Don Schlup. She is survived by her sister Barbara Johnson and husband Leland; brother Fred Schlup and wife Naomi; her daughters and their husbands, Lori and Alan Thompson, Linda and Robert Woodell Gretchen and Duane Ericson, Janet and Richard Boggess; stepdaughters and their husbands Rae Lynn and Paul Lee, Jan and Gaylen Healzer; grandchildren Aimee, Nikki, Travis, Brandon, April, Tyler, Andrew, Aaron, Matt, Andy and Jonathan; and numerous great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind multiple cousins, nieces, nephews and beloved friends.

James Trumbo (’60)

08/04/1939 – 04/26/2021

James Trumbo (’60) was born Aug. 4, 1939, in Chula, Miss., the third child to Maurice and Lucile Trumbo. In 1968 James graduated with a BS Degree in Accounting from Walla Walla University in Washington. James was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, in Norton, Kan. He was an elder and treasurer from 1968-2017. James died on Apr. 26, 2021 and was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, of fifty-four years, Joyce Trumbo; sister, Marcia; and brother-in-law, Egon. James is survived by his three sons; Timothy, Richard, and Steven; sister, Arlene; sister-in-law, Beth; ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Merton Jensen ’62

02/18/1927 – 01/13/2021

Merton James Jensen, age 91, a resident of Eagle River, Wisc., died Jan. 13, 2021, at St. Mary’s Hospital. He was born in Escanaba, Mich., on Nov. 5, 1929, to Merton and Mildred Jensen. Merton served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a member of the Eagle River VFW and served as Post Commander. Merton enjoyed working with his hands, time with family, and the company of friends. He will always be remembered for his ability to command a room and be ready with a good story. Merton was preceded in death by his wife Susan and a brother, Bill. He is survived by brothers, Jerry and John, and sister Barbara. Sons Steven, David, and Jeff; and Marsha, Susan, and Kristin. He was blessed by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and many other family and friends.

Viola “Vi” Lowry Case (’58)

02/27/1937 – 12/14/2019

Viola “Vi” Lowry Case (’58) passed away on Dec. 14, 2019, in Canon City, Colo. She was born in Colorado Springs, Colo., to Julia and Edward Lowry on Feb. 27, 1937. After graduation from Pikes Peak Junior Academy, she attended Campion Academy in Loveland, Colo., and then Union College in Lincoln, Neb. She made numerous friends throughout her education that have remained close until the time of her death. On June 10, 1973, Vi married John “Larry” Case. In 1975, they moved to Cañon City where they permanently settled. Through the years, she was active in support of the Cañon City Seventh-day Adventist church and the church school. Vi is survived by her sons Joel, Rick, and Dave, brother Bob, and seven grandchildren. She was proceeded in death by her husband Larry Case, sister Coriena Hendricks ’57, and brother-in-law John Hendricks.

Randy Bailey (’78)

01/26/1958 – 09/01/2016

Randall ‘Randy’ Bailey was born Jan. 26, 1958 and passed away Sept. 1, 2016. Randall was a resident of Dayton, Tenn., at the time of his passing. He was married to Miriam.