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Monthly Archives: December 2010
12/30/2010
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12/29/2010
Reply from Martha Lamb Schepp (68): Newburg, ND
Hi Gary,
Happy Holidays! I’m enjoying every blog. I brought home my lap top from school. Kinda scary, because I can send e-mails on this computer. Somewhere on one of the blogs you posted Orvin’s address at Bethany homes in Fargo. Would you please e-mail this to me? Thanks Gary
Martha Lamb Schepp (68)
Martha, Orvin’s address and Phone number are
Orvin Hagen201 S. University Dr. #630Fargo, ND 58103701-478-3947Your mother, my mother, Mary Ann Hagen, Orvin and others were the Mountaineers 4-H club leaders for many years. We were a very large club. We must have been one of the largest of all times. I have forgotten the numbers, but 60 plus comes to mind. I mentioned those four leaders, because they were the ones that organized and started our club. I learned so many good things from being in that club too.Our mothers were also very active Kelvin Home Makers members. I remember seeing you often at their monthly meetings and social gatherings too.Martha, It is great hearing from you.Gary
Reply from Wesley Schneider’s Sister-in-law
Florence Hiatt Dahl (49): Anchorage, AK
Wesley Schneider was working at the creamery in Bottineau and he told the ladies that worked in the office that his birthday was such and such day. So they did the nice and proper thing and had a big celebration with the birthday cake etc. And then when the actual day of his birthday, Ovidia brought a beautiful home made birthday cake in to the office– much to every one’s surprise—————Wesley’s comment, “I like birthdays” Hope I remember this correctly..
12/28/2010
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12/27/2010
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12/26/2010
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12/25/2010
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12/24/2010
Merry Christmas
I’d like to wish each and everyone of you a very Merry Christmas. We have now completed year three with this Blog. Today we are starting year four. What a remarkable bonding of the Dunseith Alumni to keep this going. We are making history too of the history of yester years. The genealogy buffs of years to come will have a hay day with what we are doing.
It’s now Christmas eve here in Cebu, Philippines. Bernadette has all the gifts lined up in the dining room that she will be giving out later today. This evening the folks in our area/compound will be gathering just outside our gate in Bernadette’s sisters yard. They will have music and games until midnight. At midnight Bernadette will be serving a big dinner to all at our place.
Gary
Reply from Ceile Carbonneau Marchand (50): Clearwater, FL
The article on the Peace Garden was great and I hope I can return to the area again and see it.. It is beautiful here in Sunny Florida but it is hard not to be with the .family at this time.
I want to wish all of you a Very Blessed Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. I have been gone from the area for a long time but I enjoy the communication with our past.
Cecile (Carbonneau) Marchand Class of 1950
Condolences to the Bob Brennan family
From Jay (66) & Lola (68) Metcalfe Vanorny: Dunseith, ND
We were so shocked and saddened to hear of Supan’s death. She was such a nice person and I enjoyed visiting with her a lot.
I so enjoyed visiting with her and especially when she talked of her early life In Thailand. Our sympathy goes out to Bob and the family . Lola and Jay
Condolences to the Bob Brennan family
From Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI
My sympathy to the Brennans too. The good always die too young. Our prayers are with you all.
Allen
Augie & DJ Johnson – Father & son resemblance
Reply from Sybil Johnson: Cheyenne, WY.
Yes Neola, DJ does resemble his father, Augie; to a certain extent. But, Augie has a wider face. Merry Christmas to all, from Wyoming..
Sybil Johnson
Sybil Johnson
From Florence Pladson Sime (62): Dunseith, ND
Here’s wishing you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR. May god bless you all with a good year ahead. Florence
Reply to Banche Wicks Schley (42):
From Lloyd Awalt (44): Bottineau, ND
Hi Blanche I was going thru the book and found out when the stone church was built. 1918 & 1919 just about completed in 1919. The Lutheran church was moved from Rolette to Dunseith in 1940. My dad and Earl Fassett dug the basement with horses. At that time the church sat across the street from where we lived. The big building on the north end of town I can’t place which one unless you are thinking it to be the city hall that burned down in 1931 new years eve. Maybe come up with more later. Merry Christmas to every one. Lloyd Awalt
Reply to Blanch Wicks Schley’s questions
From Dick Johnson (66): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
In answer Blanch Wicks Schley’s questions. The store where Mr. Kotschevar displayed his doll house would have been Billy Wright’s Grocery if it were before 1947. Then it was Olson’s Grocery, and later, Joe Morinville’s Grocery.
The Dunseith Lutheran Church was moved to Dunseith in 1940–that was the year I remember on the cornerstone.
The ‘Stone Church’ was built in 1911 and 1912—it was finished by the Masons. It is currently being used by the Church of God.
I remember the big building that sat in Myron Evan’s pasture at the south end of the old ‘dump ground road’. There were people living in the building when I was a kid. I don’t remember what happened to this place but it’s long gone. Can’t help you on the Satrang building.
Dick
Awalt Homestead:
Question/comments from Dick Johnson (66): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
There are a couple questions I have about the Awalt homestead. I think Lloyd is the oldest in the family and I was wondering if he remembers going to see his grandparents when they lived in the log house that was here in the yard? It’s the one that was pictured in the blog a couple days ago. If I remember correctly, the Conn family lived for a few years in the house before they moved to California in 1938. Lloyd would have been quite young when his grandparents lived here. I think my Grandpa Hans Johnson bought the place from William Awalt in about 1924-25. The Conns were also related to us. My Grandma Cynthia Johnson had a sister, Stella, who married one of the Conn boys, Howard Conn. It may have been how they met when Conns lived in the Awalt house and my grandparents lived just across the road. Mr. Conn, the dad, used to sell popcorn beside the show hall in Dunseith. Thus, he had the nickname, ‘Popcorn Conn’. I think the family was quite poor and knowing my grandpa, he probably let them live in the house to help out. Something that I remember about the house that is not evident on the picture is that on the north side of the house there was an addition that had two very small rooms, probably bedrooms. As a kid, I was amazed that anyone could even get into the rooms as they were no bigger than 6′ x 8′ and the ceiling was only maybe 5′ at the outside. They were probably bedrooms for kids but with them being on the north side and built out of only boards, they must have been cold in the winter. The east side of the house had a log addition (evident in the picture)that was rather unique. The east door opened into a landing and there was what today is called a ‘split foyer’. There were about 4 steps that went up to the main floor and about the same number that went to the dugout cellar. I remember Dad telling me that he thought it was quite a modern concept for a log house to be built this way clear back then. This part of the house was still there when I was young and I explored the house lots of times. The main room that is just through the door in the picture was the living room and this is where the horse fell through around 1950 or so. That room had log walls that were painted a very light shade of blue. It still looked pretty good in the 50s. Anyway, I was wondering what Lloyd remembers about the place? Thanks Gary!
Dick
Obituaries & death notices posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND
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Supan Brennan
Died December 20, 2010 |
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Supan Brennan, age 61 of Dunseith, died Monday at a Bottineau hospital. Funeral will be held on Monday at 3:00 pm at the St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Dunseith. Visitation will be Sunday from 1:00 pm until 9:00 pm with a prayer service at 7:00 pm and again on Monday from 9:00 pm until noon at the Nero Funeral Home in Bottineau. Burial will be at the St. Louis Catholic Cemetery at Dunseith.
Supan Brennan, a daughter of Sing and Doll Ponsopa, was born on December 27, 1948 in Chiang Mai, Thailand. In 1973, she met Bob Brennan in Bangkok, Thailand while he was serving in the US Army. They were married on September 17, 1973. She moved with Bob to Dunseith in 1974. Her first job was at the Dunseith Nursing Home where she met many friends. She later worked at San Haven near Dunseith were she met many more good friends. For the past 16 years, Supan had a dog kennel and raised many small dogs that adored her. This was a job she truly loved.
She was a member of the St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Dunseith, where on January 7, 2010, she and Robert renewed their wedding vows and Supan was baptized. She was also very active in the St. Michael Altar Society. She was very proud of her heritage and of her home town of Chiang Mai, Thailand. She adored her family and loved spending time with them.
She is survived by her husband, Robert of Dunseith; twin daughters, Sheila (Troy) Kubas and Shelby (Kal) Larson all of Minot; sons, Sonny (Holli) Brennan of Bismarck and Shannon (Kristie) Brennan of Minot; grandchildren, Lauren and Madison Larson, Brennan and Jaxon Kubas and Kaden, Gracyn and Rylee Brennan; and 2 sister, Pon and Vee Pa of Thailand.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother and two sisters.
Supan will be deeply missed by all from her family to friends to her little furry friends, especially Juanita, her little yorkie that laid by her side at the end of her journey here on Earth.
Arrangements were with Nero Funeral Home in Bottineau. Friends may sign the online register book at www.nerofuneralhome.net
Amanda (Berg) Schultz
Amanda Schultz, age 88, of Jamestown, ND and formerly of Valley City, ND and Donnybrook, ND died Monday, Dec. 20, 2010 at Eventide Nursing Home in Jamestown, ND. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 PM Monday, December 27, 2010 at the Lerud-Schuldt Funeral Home in Valley City with Rev. Dan Bader officiating. Burial will be at Kenmare, ND later in the spring.
Amanda Schultz was born Feb. 17, 1922 in Homen Township of Bottineau County, ND. She was raised there and also attended school in Homen Township. She later graduated from Bottineau High School and then attended the Bottineau State School of Forestry. She then worked in Bottineau at a coop store for 4 years. She married Clarence Schultz on June 15, 1944. The couple farmed at Little Prairie, north and west of Dunseith, ND and in 1949 moved into Dunseith where they operated a grocery store and later a garage. In 1953 they moved to Minot and in 1954 they moved to Donnybrook, ND where they owned and operated a grocery store and locker plant. They retired in 1989. Mr. Schultz died on Dec. 11, 1999 and she then moved to Valley City, ND. In May of 2008 she became a resident of Hi Acres Nursing Home in Jamestown, ND. Amanda was active in community affairs and was a member of the Methodist Church in Donnybrook,ND. Survivors include 2 daughters: Connie (Merlin) Trapp, Marion, ND and Terri (Dan) Bourdeau, Camano Island, WA; 4 grandchildren: Ryan Knecht, Stephanie (Robb) Lee, Joshua Bourdeau, and Cameron Bourdeau, and 4 great grandchildren: Jordan Lee, Brandan Lee, Alyssa Lee, and Dylan Knecht. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, 2 brothers, and a sister.
http://www.lerudschuldt.com/index.cfm
Neola’s comments: Amanda’s parents were Albert/Clara Johnson Berg (P. 189 in Centennial Book). They lived along Highway 43 (Peace Garden Road) in the Turtle Mts. northeast of Bottineau, ND. Amanda’s sister was Arla (Mrs. Anthony Marteliano); her brothers were Martin (married to Alice Brudwick Berg–my aunt). Martin/Alice have one daughter, Carol; Alvin who was killed in a car accident many years ago. Alvin’s wife was Lillian Torgerson Berg. Lillian later married Reinard Schultz. Alvin/Lillian’s children are Gary, Diane, Sharon and Guy.
Clarence/Amanda and Albert/Emma Christianson Halvorson owned the garage (Corner Service/Corner Garage) my dad bought in Dunseith in 1952 (?). Dad sold the garage to Alvin Moe in 1960.
Clinton Parisien
(Died December 20, 2010)
Sign Guest Book| Send Flowers |
(Died December 20, 2010)
Sign Guest Book| Send Flowers |
CLINTON PARISIEN
Clinton Parisien, age 32 of Dunseith, died Monday in his home. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 10:00 A.M. in the St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dunseith. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. A wake will be held on Monday beginning at 4:00 P.M. with a prayer service at 7:00 P.M. in the Church.
Clinton Michael Parisien, a son of Randy Davis and MaDonna Parisien, was born on March 13, 1978 at Rolette.
He is survived by his mother, Madonna Parisien of Dunseith; father, Randy Davis (DHS class of 1977) of Dunseith, grandparents, Joyce (Buddy) Dumont of Dunseith; his companion, Carolina Deschamp of Dunseith; sons, Joseph Parisien, Jared Parisien and Javon Parisien all at home; brothers, Austin (Andrea) Duncan of Grand Forks and Nathan Parisien of Belcourt; sisters Sharise Parisien and Kandea Parisien both of Belcourt; foster sisters, Tracie Delorme and Nichole Parisien both of Dunseith.
Gary M. Counts
(Died December 23, 2010)
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(Died December 23, 2010)
Sign Guest Book| Send Flowers |
Gary M. Counts, age 72 of Dunseith, died Thursday at a Belcourt hospital. (Nero Funeral Home – Bottineau)
Christmas Soldier’s poem
From Mike and Sandra Zeiler (62): Vandal: Elk River, MN
A Soldier and Santa
T’WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS,
HE LIVED ALL ALONE,
IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE,
MADE OF PLASTER AND STONE.
I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY,
WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,
AND TO SEE JUST WHO,
IN THIS HOME, DID LIVE.
I LOOKED ALL ABOUT,
A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,
NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS,
NOT EVEN A TREE.
NO STOCKING BY MANTLE,
JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,
ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES,
OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.
WITH MEDALS AND BADGES,
AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,
A SOBER THOUGHT,
CAME THROUGH MY MIND.
FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT,
IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,
I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER,
ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.
THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING,
SILENT, ALONE,
CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR,
IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.
THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE,
THE ROOM IN DISORDER,
NOT HOW I PICTURED,
A TRUE AMERICAN SOLDIER.
WAS THIS THE HERO,
OF WHOM I’D JUST READ?
CURLED UP ON A PONCHO,
THE FLOOR FOR A BED?
I REALISED THE FAMILIES,
THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,
OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS,
WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.
SOON ROUND THE WORLD,
THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,
AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE,
A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.
THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM,
EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,
BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS,
LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.
I COULDN’T HELP WONDER,
HOW MANY LAY ALONE,
ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE,
IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.
THE VERY THOUGHT BROUGHT,
A TEAR TO MY EYE,
I DROPPED TO MY KNEES,
AND STARTED TO CRY.
THE SOLDIER AWAKENED,
AND I HEARD A ROUGH VOICE,
“SANTA DON’T CRY,
THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;
I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM,
I DON’T ASK FOR MORE,
MY LIFE IS MY GOD,
MY COUNTRY, MY CORPS..”
THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,
AND DRIFTED TO SLEEP,
I COULDN’T CONTROL IT,
I CONTINUED TO WEEP.
I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS,
SO SILENT AND STILL,
AND WE BOTH SHIVERED,
FROM THE COLD NIGHT’S CHILL.
I DID NOT WANT TO LEAVE,
ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,
THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR,
SO WILLING TO FIGHT.
THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,
WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,
WHISPERED, “CARRY ON SANTA,
IT’S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE.”
ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH,
AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.
“MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND,
AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.”
This poem was written by a Peacekeeping soldier stationed overseas. The following is his request. I think it is reasonable.
PLEASE. Would you do me the kind favour of sending this to as many people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to all of the service men and women for our being able to celebrate these festivities. Let’s try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us. Please, do your small part to plant this small seed.
12/23/2010
Condolences to the Bob Brennan family
From Ele Dietrich Slyter (69): Dunseith, ND
| We are so very sorry to hear of Supan’s passing…our hearts go out to Bob, Sonny, Sheila, Shelby and Shannon at this terrible time. She was such a wonderful person, so strong and capable. I always admired her courage to leave her family in Thailand to come here to live. She will be missed by many.
ele
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Reply to Mrs. Conroy’s 1954 class picture posted with Auggie Johnson
From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND
Hi Gary,
I think I’ve mentioned Auggie/Sybil Johnson’s son, D. J., was in my class in Minot many years ago. I can definitely see the resemblance between D. J. and Auggie.
Neola
Deerheart Lodge
Reply from Banche Wicks Schley (42): Grand Forks, ND
Just read about Deerheart Lodge. The mention of the house tar Mr. that had built reminded me of an incident that it was displayed (by them) in Dunseth. It was so amazing to me to see lights in this tiny doll house. There was a store next to the telephone office on the east side of the street and as I remember this where he showing these items.
Can anyone tell me when the “stone church” was built. Is it still used as a church? It must have been built as a Masonic place –but in the ’30’s it served as a community church. When was the Lutheran church moved in to Dunseith? Also, another question: there was a building
where the Satrang family lived….it had not been built as a residence ( this would have faced the highway going to Belcourt Then there was a building on the north side of town
that was also a large structure. I In the ’30’s Dunseith had a baseball team and this where they lived for the summer.
I am sure that if I would contact the bank and get a copy of the history of Dunseith…these questions are answered.
Merry Christmas to you and your family ….this includes all the people that cintribute to your daily column, May 2011 be a blesed year for all.
Blanche Wicks Schley
Snow in Germany
Greetings from Bob Lykins (Teacher): Hutto, TX
Hello from snowy Germany and the Bayischer Wald located in the heart of Bavaria, You talk about snow. I have been here for 13 days and it has snowed all but one day, Last year it took me 5 days to get here because of the storms, This year I left earlier and I missed the disasters at the airports over the past several days that you probably read about or saw on TV. It is beautiful here and there is nothing like Christmas in Bavaria. Merry Christmas to all and a very happy New Year. Bob Lykins
Bob, Enjoy your time in Germany with your son and family. Gary
Nathan Richard (2000) Fort Greeley, AK
From Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI
A lot of Dunseith grads have backgrounds in military service. Nathan began in the National Guard at UND and later in Army ROTC. Shortly after graduation and marriage, he was assigned to Homeland Security and is stationed at Fort Greely just outside Delta Junction, Alaska.
This is Nathan’s evaluation for this year. We are pretty proud of him!
1LT Richard’s duty performance was integral to the success of my Fire Direction Center crew. During this rating period Nathan was the only dual certified operator as Sensors and Battle Analyst in the Battalion. His Operational Readiness Evaluation (ORE) scores were higher than the primary crew Battle Analyst. 1LT Richard’s technical and tactical expertise gave him an advantage at the time to execute tasks in relation to the Battalion’s strategic mission. He is, without a doubt, a mission-oriented professional; dedicated to the mission and equipped for success. Nathan was responsible for the timely and accurate submission of strategic and operational reports along with crew training products IAW Brigade Annexes and the Battalion training management SOP. Keep a close eye on his career. Ready for positions of increased responsibility based on his untapped potential. 1LT Richard is an outstanding officer and demonstrated he was the right choice as an executive officer for the battalion fire direction center on numerous occasions. He quickly acquired the skills of becoming an executive officer and enabled his fellow crew members to exceed the highest standards of training performance in the U.S. Army. Additionally, he has dual certified as a sensor operator and a battle analyst for the Ground-based Midcourse Defense Fire Direction Crews in a very challenging certification process. He has continued additional duties for his crew as well, assisting the crew APFT program through equipment donation and by personal example, maintaining his edge as a front-line leader and proficient warrior. Promote when eligible.
12/22/2010
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12/21/2010
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12/20/2010
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1964 Concert
Reply form Diane Hill Moline (75) Burlington, ND
Hello Everyone!! I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!! I too appreciate all the work Gary does for the “Dunseith family” and all of you for sharing your memories and pictures. The 1964 Community Concert has been on my mind a lot lately, being Christmas and all! I was in 2nd grade, just turning 8 on December 24th. I was small in stature at that time, so I understand why Dick thought I was 4!! Mrs. Dean Parrill was our second grade teacher at the time. She asked the class who knew the words to the 2nd verse of Away in a Manger. I think I was the only one who raised my hand, therefore I got the part. I recall the excitement of the concert that day. Don Johnson was concerned no one would see me while I sang, so he chose to set me on top of the piano. So, that’s where I sang my 2nd verse from!! I have always wished to have pictures from that concert, so if anyone can help me get a good reproduction of these photos it would be greatly appreciated. God’s Blessings to you all the Holiday Season, and all year long!!! Diane Hill Moline 1964 Concert
Don Johnson, Diane Hill, Paula Fassett & Gail Henning
 Son’s of Norway Christmas Party
Message from Connie Zorn Landsverk: Bottineau, ND
The Son’s of Norway had a Christmas Party @ the Senior Citizen’s Center in Bottineau on December 16th. It was a fun evening. Brenda & Dick Johnson provided the music. They did an awesome job singing and playing. Thanks again Brenda & Dick!! Merry Christmas Connie Landsverk
Pictures – EXPAT Christmas party at the Stokes house
Folks, We slept in our new bedroom for the first time last night. The inside of our new addition is entirely done. They are finishing up the outside painting this week.
Last Saturday we hosted a potluck dinner Christmas party at our house of which I have attached a few pictures of. We had a great turn out with about 70 guests. The two pictures taken inside the house with the gals and the guy were taken in our new living room. Bernadette hired a disco guy to come in too with his big sound system for folks to dance to also. These folks love to party and have a good time. If someone is sitting by themselves being a bit shy, folks go over and start talking to them. We are a group of folks from many counties around the globe. The thing we (Guys) have in common is that we are all foreigners living in this country. A few of the gals (spouces) are not Filipina’s either and they fit in just fine. Gary
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12/19/2010
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12/18/2010
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12/17/2010
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Folks, Last night when I logged into my computer, I was able to open my Internet Explorer program just fine. I think the problem was a bad internet signal that we often times have. There are times I can access all of my email just fine, but cannot log into any internet sites and vise versa. Anyway, I have now posted the last two days and today’s will be posted on our Dunseith Alumni Website after I send it out. Gary
Dialogue between the Awalt’s & Dick Johnson
Reply from Bill Hosmer (48): Tucson, AZ
Date correction to Dick Johnson’s log cabin pictures posted yesterday
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary,
The pictures are current and the numbers behind the photos are simply the ‘jpg.Dec. snow .001 — .002 etc.’ picture numbers. I think the readers will think it’s the date I took the pictures and in the text I said current which they are. Thanks. Dick
ND snow
Pictures from Larry Liere (55): Devils Lake, ND & Mesa, AZ
Hi
It does not happen very often in North Dakota that we get this much snow and no wind. The radio said 15″ and then changed it to 20″
The snow on top of our picnic table in the attached picture was 22+” Mesa, AZ will look good.
MERRY CHRISTMAS,
LARRY
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12/16/2010
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Folks,
I am kind of making this a little short today. Getting ready for an EXPAT Christmas party that we are hosting at our house this Saturday along with the finishing touches of our addition and with Bernadette’s sister having arrived from Japan yesterday, things are kind of busy at our house. I’ve also been experiencing some computer problems not being able to use my internet explorer browser. I need to be able to use internet explorer to post the these daily blogs too, so yesterday’s and today’s are not yet posted.
Gary
Awalt Homestead
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
A real big thank you to the Awalt crew—Marshall, Bonnie (my babysitter long ago), and Lloyd, who emailed me saying he had a picture and would find it. I know the family has been here to look the old place over several times over the years, but I only hoped they might have some pictures of the old Awalt house. They certainly did! Thanks for posting them. On the south side of the house,which is straight out in front of the door in the old picture, William Awalt placed a ring of big rocks for a flower bed and, I assume, Mrs. Awalt planted flowers there. These rocks are still there and Brenda has flowers there every year. I will attach a picture of her flowers from this summer. I don’t know if anyone is interested but I will also send a few pictures of my log house when I was building it 32 years ago and a current one of how it looks today. Awalts house sat on the same spot although it faced south and mine faces east. Thanks again to the Awalts and of course Gary, our main man!! Dick
Flower Bed in 004
Original Awalt flower bed
Dec 001
Dick/Brenda’s replacement log house located on the same spot as the
former Awalt log cabin
Log house construction
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12/15/2010
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Folks,
We are headed to the Airport shortly to pick-up Bernadette’s sister, Alot, who is arriving from Japan. She will be here for two weeks. Alot has been here for Christmas the past several years. She has lived in Japan for about 25 years. Needless to say, Bernadette is all excited for her arrival.
Gary
Ardis Goodsell Johnson (49)
Awalt Log house:
Picture from Marshall Awalt (51): Newport, NJ.
Gary
Here is a picture of that old log house Dick wanted. I cut four logs out of the left hand corner that I still have. It was a pretty location then and still is.
Marshall
Awalt Log house:
Pictures from Bonnie Awalt Houle (56): Becker, MN.
Dear Gary,
In answer to what Dick Johnson wanted I have scanned the photo’s that I have of the old Awalt Homestead which is now Dick’s home, of course Dick has done a lot of improvements.
Bonnie Awalt Houle (56)
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12/14/2010
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Awalt Picture Question
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
Marshall Awalt sent in a picture of people celebrating the end of World War I at Berdella, ND. This was actually here on our farmland. What I was wondering is if Marshall or any of the Awalt family would have a picture of their grandparent’s home which sat on the exact same location where I built my log house in 1978? I remember the old log house of William Awalt’s that I cleaned up in order to build on the spot. It was a log house with two very small added rooms on the north side. It was left unoccupied from 1938, when the Conn family moved to the west coast. By the mid ’50s, when I started exploring the place, it was starting to deteriorate badly. One story about the house is about how the living room floor got caved in like it was. Dad told me that when Grandpa Hans Johnson used the yard and surrounding acres for pasture, one of his team of workhorses pushed the door open and went in and fell through the floor. They couldn’t find him and finally looked inside the open door and he was standing in the cellar, unhurt. By 1978, when I cleaned up the old house with the Cat, it had collapsed and was just rubble. I really would appreciate it if anyone has a picture of the old house back in the day when it was Awalt’s home and would post it for me. The big elm trees that graced the yard were planted in 1902 and John Awalt told me his dad covered them with horse blankets so they wouldn’t be damaged during the building of the house. We had a beautiful yard for many years until a few years ago when Dutch Elm disease claimed ever single elm in the yard. I do have pictures taken in the yard when Awalts lived here but none show the house, just people and horses and the picket fence gate on the south side of the house. I hope Marshall or one of the family has a picture for us. I would really like to see one. Thanks Gary! Dick
Photos provided by Jim Kamphenkel (Teacher): Greenwald MN
This photo is 5th & 6th grade basketball in 1974-75. I think all of the kids have been identified correctly.
Jim Kamphenkel
Back: Brian Azure, Albert Delorme, Pat Evans,Orville Davis,Coach Steve Krebsbach, Gary Belgarde,Patrick Gunville, Randy Azure, Jr. Poitra.
Front: Joey Evans, James Malaterre,Sylvester Laducer, Fred Laducer, Tim Leonard, Blair Neameyer, Jeff LaFountain, Rod Moe, George Bruce, Danny Ringuette,
 Gary,
Here’s a photo from about 1975. It’s a group of excited kids who won a junior high basketball tournament showing off their trophy.
I think that I got the names and spellings correct – I hope!
Jim Kamphenkel
Back – Steve Renault, Reed Rainey, Clarence Enno, Gary Belgarde and Terry Decotah.
Front – Rod Moe, Clarence Counts, Blair Neameyer, Wade Renault.
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12/13/2010
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Ardis Goodsell Johnson (49) passed away
Obituaries
Reply from Allen Richard (65):
I loved the Apron History! About the germs–They must have been good things. The last time I got the Flu was in ’68–’69 —- Which was the last time I got a flu shot! (Unless you consider vodka a flu shot. Come to think of it–I never heard of a flu “pandemic” in Russia———–)
To Bonnie Awalt Houle— Looked at your picture–you can’t possibly be old enough to remember that stuff. Must have taken notes from Keith — he could be that old!
(Sorry– I haven’t zinged a cousin in months! I couldn’t resist!)
Hope you are all enjoying the winter weather! We are about 450 miles straight East of Rochester, MN. Don’t believe all the bad winter weather complaints you hear about MI. True–the UP gets interesting and lake effect snow can be fun, but the rest of it is pretty wimpy — by Turtle Mountain standards.
I’m on the school board here — can you believe they shut down school when the wind chill hits -20???? First of all we didn’t know the term wind chill until the ’80s. Second if we followed the -20 rule we all would have had December-February as weather days!
Merry Christmas!
Awalt Family
Folks, With the Awalt family being frequently mentioned the past while I feel it’s time for a re-posting of their family picture along with Bonnie’s message.
Previously posted with message 480 on 6/15/2009
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12/12/2010
Memories
From Bonnie Awalt Houle (56): Becker, MN.
Merry Christmas Gary from Minnesota and our fresh foot of snow. The wind is blowing and sculpting beautiful shapes in the drifts and the best part is we can sit inside where it is warm and put together a jigsaw puzzle. Thanks to everyone for solving the picture puzzle of my Dad for us.
My Grandmother Anderson always wore aprons, she had many, many of them when I came across this poem about aprons (attached) she immediately came to my mind. Thought people might enjoy the poem and think of Grand Anderson also.
Bonnie Awalt Houle (56)
Bonnie’s memories
Long Distance Telephone Calls
Horseback riding
What are some of the common things from the past that we haven’t thought of in years?How about the long distance operator breaking in to tell you that your 3 minutes are almost up?Now days we pick up the phone and dial long distance without giving it a thought.When we were kids it was a big deal to call long distance, and when a long distance call was received at your home everyone was to remain silent while our parents talked, long distance was not for children. The time limit of 3 minutes was honored by the person calling and the person receiving the call.When the operator said your time was up you hung up even if you were in the middle of a sentence.Children did not talk for a long while on the phone, it was state your business and hang up.We had party lines in town sometimes several parties on one line.I do remember how excited everyone was when we were able to get a two party line.Your ring let you know whether the call was for you or your party line partner.Our ring was two long rings.If you were calling someone up in the hills you had to go through Berdella, or something like that, that was the operator at Kelvin. (Some of you people from the Hills could be more accurate on this as I am guessing).
The stories of horse back riding remind me of the Schneider girls, Elaine and Marlene.They were excellent riders.Elaine even had her horse jumping poles she set up.Gayl Bedard was another excellent horse woman.Gayl loved horses from elementary school until the present day.Gayl spent a lot of her spare time in school drawing horses. (she was pretty good also).When we were in High School we borrowed Rodney Evans horse Toni and road out to Lords Lake.It was Elaine, Gayl, and Myselfand I can’t remember for certain who else.We decided we should have a race.(DUMB)The county grader had been through and left a row of dirt clumps down the center of the road, of course that is where we were racing.The Evans horse was used to racing and used to winning and so with Gayl as his rider he had no trouble jumping the dirt clumps and taking the lead.I was not a good rider but was very competitive and tried to do the same thing.Needless to say the horse and I both went down.I broke my ankle and the horse was scuffed up pretty good also.We had to get the horses home and face the music of having done such a senseless thing.I believe Elaine took the brunt of the blame for that, as I was riding her horse.Another day after that we rode from Schneider’s out to Rodney Armentrout’s farm.We did a lot of riding that summer and our biggest challenge was trying to get the horses to cross the creek out by the graveyard to get to Gottbreth’s.I led my horse across I never could get her across with me on her back.
Mrs. Conroy’s class picture provided by Dwight Lang (61):
Reply from Dwight Lang (61): Tucson, AZ.
This was far too easy for you folks, about a 2 or 3 on the hardness scale. I figured Joan (Wurgler) Salmonson and Janet (Hosmer) ???? would have nailed them all shortly. Got to thinking again and that’s very dangerous, when did Janet (Hoagenson) join up with the class of 61? The Duane T’s last name was Trustee. I think his dad was a fed with the border or the post office. Now that Marta G. I have no idea. Sure cute with those big ears. Bet she grew into a beautiful woman. Dick, you got the rest right, Lowell, Augie and Joanne.
Dwight, You are the only guy I recognized in these pictures. You are the only Guy in these pictures that I knew back then too. Since the day I was born, I have known you. You’ve got 4 years on me though. Your mother, Charlotte Hiatt Lang, was my first grade teacher at Acworth. That was the last year of summer school at Ackworth too. There were only 7 students total in the whole school that year. They were Barbara, Harvey & LD Hiatt; Bradley Salmonson; John & Dale Pritchard; Gary Stokes. GaryPS – Hopefully the Origin of the name Marta given below will jar some memories as to who she is?Marta (given name) – Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaMarta is a Czech, Russian, Finnish, German, Hungarian, Georgian, Italian, Polish, Portuguese and Spanish given name for females,
3rd row front to back: Kenny Handeland, Lowell Kelly, Dwight Lang, Lynda Williams
2nd row front to back: Nicole Bedard, August Johnson, Nikkey Bedard, Patty Spaeth, Johnny Morgan
1st row Front to back: Cecile Gouin, Joann LaRocque, Gearld Anderson, Duane Trustee, Marta G.,
George Gottbreht, Glenda Fletcher, Mrs. Conroy
3rd row front to back: 4th graders; Glenda Fletcher and August Johnson
2nd row front to back: Marie Iverson, Jean Lake, William Longie, Judy Kiesow
1st row front to back: Harvey Johnson, Ernestine Dailly, Janet Hosmer, Michael Graham,
Billy Awalt, Rodney Kalk, Adolph Longie, Mrs. Conroy
12/11/2010
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Our New phone number – (701) 428-8186
Folks, Our new phone number is (701) 428-8186. That’s a Kindred phone number with Magic Jack. Phone numbers for SRT phone exchanges are not available with Magic Jack, so I chose a Kindred number. This number will not wake us up, so you can call anytime. If we don’t answer just leave a message and I will get back to you.
Wonderful Wonderful – A lot of folks have been visiting our Dunseith Alumni Website. It’s interesting to note that several days last month we had in excess of a hundred visitors. The average daily visits for last month were 50 and a fraction. It’s also interesting to note that for days I’m late getting a message out or if I miss a day, the visits to our Website are spiked.
Gary
Dunseith Alumni Website link
Mrs. Conroy’s class pictures
Reply from Sybil Johnson: Cheyenne, WY.
Thank you Marie Staub, for the school pictures showing Augie and Harvey Johnson. As you know, Harvey passed away some time ago, in St. John ad Augie lives in
Minot. Him and I have been divorced for the past 15 yrs. and I dont speak to him, but it is still nice to see and read stories about Axel’s family. Thanks again. Sybil Johnson Mrs. Conroy’s class pictures
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
Thanks to Dwight Lang and Marie Iverson Staub for the picture and the names of the kids. I did have a question about some of the names I don’t recognize. Can someone fill me in on how some of these kids fit into the Dunseith area, as in what there parents did or who they were living with. The students I don’t seem to remember are: Marta G. I think the second girl in the 4th grade picture is Joann LaRocque–she is listed as Joan L. ( my guess?) Dick 3rd row front to back: Kenny Handeland, Lowell K., Dwight Lang, Lynda Williams
2nd row front to back: Nicole Bedard, August Johnson, Nikkey Bedard, Patty Spaeth, Johnny Morgan
1st row Front to back: Cecile Gouin, Joan L., Gearld Anderson, Duane T., Marta G.,
George Gottbreht, Glenda Fletcher, Mrs. Conroy
3rd row front to back: 4th graders; Glenda Fletcher and August Johnson
2nd row front to back: Marie Iverson, Jean Lake, William Longie, Judy Kiesow
1st row front to back: Harvey Johnson, Ernestine Dailly, Janet Hosmer, Michael Graham,
Billy Awalt, Rodney Kalk, Adolph Longie, Mrs. Conroy
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12/10/2010
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Wesley Schnieder
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND
Gary,
Yesterday, I printed and delivered the message to Wes from his niece. Wes sat down in his chair at the kitchen table, got out his glasses and read quietly. Although Buie and Thor both vied to get Wes to pet him Wes gave full attention to Connie’s message.
He appreciates all the personal comments written to him. And say, ” Here Ovidia did you read this?” I also happened to notice one day, Ovidia has a file she puts all his stories and correspondence in, saves and they read over again.
Last night,I commented to Wes, “I suspect Christmas has always been your favorite holiday from childhood, because, your birthday comes so soon after.”
Our friend, Wes will soon be 9 decades old a couple days after Christmas. Vickie
Laurent Gouin Passed Away
Message/Obituary from Cecile Gouin Craig (61): Windsor, CO
My Dad Laurent Gouin passed peacefully Saturday evening December 4th 2010. He will be missed. Cecile (Gouin) Craig
 San Haven – Mildred Isackson
Message/Pictures posted by Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
Most of the folks who lived or worked at San Haven will remember Mildred Isackson. She was the director of nurses for most of the time the San was in operation. These are two pictures of her, one from the very earliest days and one in her later years. I apologize for the darkness of the older photo, but that’s the way it is. On the back it says, ‘Mrs. Isackson at work at San Haven’. Thanks Gary. Dick
Mrs. Conroy’s class pictures
Reply from Marie Iverson Staub (60): Seattle, WA.
Gary,
I have these picture’s and I did have them labeled so hope they are correct.
4th grade front to back first row: Cecile Gouin, Joan L., Gearld Anderson, Duane T., Marta G., George Gottbreht, Glenda Fletcher, Mrs. Conroy.
2nd row front to back: Nicole Bedard, August Johnson, Nikkey Bedard, Patty Spaeth, Johnny Morgan, Kenny Handeland, Lowell K., Dwight Lang, Lynda Williams.
5th grade front to back first row: Harvey Johnson, Ernestine Dailly, Janet Hosmer, Michael Graham, Billy Awalt, Rodney Kalk, Adolph Longie, Mrs. Conroy. 2nd row front to back: Me(Marie Iverson), Jean Lake, William Longie, Judy Kiesow, and 4th graders Glenda Fletcher and August Johnson.
Marie Staub(Iverson)
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12/09/2010
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Sandi Dubois LaRocque
Reply from Connie Zorn Landsverk: Bottineau, ND
Just read today,s Dunseith news & so sorry to hear about Sandi Dubois LaRocque. I don,t know Sandi but will pray for her. Cancer is an awful thing. My husband Roger died from cancer in June so I know how Sandi & her family & friends are feeling. We must put our trust in the Lord & hope for the best!!
Boy on the horse pictured with John Awalt has been identified
Reply from Lloyd Awalt (44): Bottineau, ND
–I finely know who the boy on the horse is it is Michael Gress who is my sisters Eleanor’s grand son the picture was taken at crossroad ranch which is on hwy 43. She has the picture on her wall. Mystery solved. Lloyd Awalt
Reply from Lee Stickland (64): Dickinson, ND
Gary the boy in the picture with John Awalt is his great grandson Michael Gress. He is the grandson of Leonard and Eleanor Stickland. The picture was taken at Cross Road Ranch. Dick his mother is Punky Stickland. Eleanor
Reply from Gwen Grimme Eltz (68): Spokane, WA
Hi Gary,
The little boy on the horse with John Awalt looks familiar to me, too. I noticed that Bonnie said the photo was labeled “Carl.” I was wondering if the “Carl” could actually be “Carol.” The little boy looks a lot like Carol (Fassett) Tessin’s son, Timmy. When Tim was about that age, Carol and he visited the Dunseith area. Bonnie and Carol probably graduated within a year or so each other. The picture of John Awalt is so real to life. He and Gertrude were good friends of my folks, so I remember visiting their home many, many times. They were so friendly–never too busy to sit down for a good visit. I also remember Bonnie Houle’s (and Lloyd Awalt’s) grandmother, Myrtle Anderson, really well. My mother was part of Grandma Anderson’s Wednesday afternoon coffee guests when Myrtle lived in a tiny house next to John and Gertrude. After Grandma Anderson passed away, both of her sons (Charlie and Walter) stayed with us at the Commercial Hotel for many years.
Michael Gress and John Awalt
Pictures from Mrs. Conroy’s class “Green Berets reply”
F rom Dwight Lang (61)
Let me start a new name the heads game (well not really new /50+ years back) Mrs. Conroy classes. Remember the poppy program and posters? I believe it’s my eagle on the back wall. Pretty pathetic now that I look at it but at the time it should have won the top prize as far as I was concerned.
Gary, some time ago I sent you an email regarding my recollection of the “Green Berets” and I included in bit about Mrs. Conroy. You never published either. I don’t know if it was because of the content or if you lost it in the scuffle. Anyway, the Mrs. Conroy story might go well the ID game with the epic’s attached. Here’s a reprint. Edit as you please, PLEASE. Dwight , No editing necessary. Gary
From: Dulang8@aol.com
To: gws123456@hotmail.com Sent: 11/8/2010 10:47:16 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time Subj: “The Ballad of the Green Berets” & Mrs. Conroy’s teaching “The Ballad of the Green Berets”
I have to agree with Keith that “The Ballad of the Green Berets” came out in 66 or possibly 67. I remember Veterans day on the campus of UND. Although I never served in Vietnam, I was a vet having been discharged from active Army a few years prior. There was no honoring of the service veterans that day at UND. But there were 20 or 30 protestors marching around the entrance of the student union. The signs they carried ranged from “Stop the War” to “Baby Killers”. I remember vividly the feelings of both shame and hatred. With thousands of my comrades being killed daily, those “Baby Killer” signs hurt to the core. Yes it was the right time for “The Ballad of the Green Berets” to arrive. We all needed that little pick me up back then.
Mr. Editor, Gary, are we allowed two topics on the same blog?Dwight, Absolutly, The more topics the better. Gary
Mrs. Conroy’s teaching:
Another flashback! Yes I recall the singing of “It’s a Grand Old Flag” at the Memorial Day program. Mrs. Conroy was a real choreographer in her day. She convinced me that I had a special talent to display and make Mr. Bo jangles dance. You guys remember the toy, the stick puppet with the hinged arms and legs suspended on a string above a flexible stick. I believe it was the very first time I ever performed before an audience larger than the forth grade class. I don’t recall which event it was but here I was, center stage at the old city hall, before the entire Dunseith population making Mr. Bo jangles dance to the music blaring. Was spot lighting used in these programs? That I don’t remember, but it was a grand production let me tell you. It was my finest hour of fame or maybe just two minutes. Next stop – Broadway!!!
Thank you, Mrs. Conroy.
I think Dwight Lang is in 3rd row from the right, 2nd from the back?
Gwen Grimme Eltz’s Nephew.
Posted by Gary Stokes
Hi Gary, The voting link is embedded in Facebook, so I sent you a message in Facebook to connect with the West Acres content that Steven is in. Hope the link works for you still. Steven is a neat kid; he was born prematurely so has had a lot of health issues–but he’s a totally happy, bright teenager. He’s had 22 surgeries so far in his short 18 years; in fact, last week he had to have to surgery to prepare for using a Vagus Nerve Stimulator. The stimulator, hopefully, help with the seizures that cause him a lot of misery. He graduated from West Fargo high school. Steven’s dad (who was killed in a car accident) was George’s only brother; hence the “Eltz” name.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1430670486 Hope all is well with you and Bernadette!
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12/08/2010
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Wesley Schneider
Memories from Connie Fauske Monte (62): Santa Barbara, CA
I too enjoy Vickie Metcalfe’s story telling, especially the ones about Wesley Schneider. He is my uncle and it seems the only times I get to really hear about him is when Vickie talks about him. Vickie, tell Wesley hi from his niece Connie Fauske Monte. He was the greatest uncle anyone could ever have. I remember when he worked at the creamery in Bottineau, he would bring cottage cheese over for us. It was so good, Mother always made hers so the kind you had to buy was really a treat.
The last time I saw him, he was telling my sister Carrole and I, the story of when Exlax first came out, the company sent out samples to everyone in the community, so when the Schneiders got theirs he and Sal liked them so much they went around to all the neighbors mailboxes and got theirs and ate them all. He said, needless to say, they did not go to school for the next few days. We all laughed so hard.. He is a great guy and great story teller as well. Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
Gary,
I am speechless reading Erlings compliments. Thank You.
Erling, life has given us simple gifts; One of the most valuable is friendship.
All I am or hope to be is rooted in the beliefs gifted by my parents. Lessons in strength from interactions (some negative some positive) with folks of our home community. And, multiple gifts of courage which were taught to me by great teachers, ” kids” from N.D. across to Montana. I safe keep each of those gifts. Vickie.
Sandi Jubous LaRocque
Message from Verena Gillis: Dunseith, ND
Gary,
This is just to inform everyone on the latest of many cancer victims here
in Dunseith/Turtle Mountains. Sandi Dubois LaRocque has been diagnosed
with ovarian cancer, she also has a tumor on her liver and a 5x6 tumor on
her stomach. She leaves for the University of Minnesota along with her
family tomorrow morning at 8:00 am. This was such a shock to everyone!
She has always been a healthy person, rarely getting sick. Her son Jared
is married to our daughter Brandi. We will be taking care of the 4 little
ones so they can accompany her to Minnesota. I do believe her mother
Violet, sisters Beverly, Poodie, Janice, Shelly and Linda will also be
going with her. We still do not know what is in store for her once she
gets there, more than likely surgery to try and get the tumors out. We
are asking for prayers from everyone for her and her family. PRAYER IS
POWERFUL!
Megwitch (Thank you)
Verena
Horse Picture with John Awalt
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
After eliminating Dustin Striker as the boy on the horse, I do have another thought. The Peace Garden buildings of the earlier vintage were mostly all of ‘board and batten’ construction. This is vertical boards with a strip covering the seam.Most of the practice huts at the music camp were also similar. It was in the late ’60s when I worked there and they were just then talking about an equestrian camp and stables. The building in the picture appears to be newer as the boards haven’t really started to weather much. John Awalt was one of the better carpenters in the area and maybe he was involved with the construction of the barn type building and was there when this picture was taken. That could also explain why no one recognizes the little boy as he may not be from this area at all, just at the Peace Garden for the day. If this is right, it may also explain why there is no last name on the picture–just ‘Carl’. His last name would probably not even been asked. Just another guess. Thanks Gary! Dick Horse Picture with John Awalt
Reply Don Martel (Teacher): Rosemount, MN
Perhaps the child on the horse is not a boy
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12/07/2010
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Folks, I normally get this out before noon. It’s now going on 9:00 PM, so I’m later than normal. I had a busy day with the plumbing, painters and electricians with our new addition. Everything needed my attention all at once. I’ve been the one, with a helper, that has pretty much done the plumbing and bathroom fixture installations. Except for the bedroom closets, the inside will be finished in several day. The closets should be finished and painted by mid week next week. Gary
Wes Schneider memories – The Long Drought of the 1930’s
Posted by Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
Gary,Mark S., and friends,
When I had the dogs out after school today,we walked over to Wes and Ovidia’s armed with Mark’s information from the blog on “the Kotchevars and the Schimetz families” . Once my boys received treats from Wes, they settled down to contently listen and Wes provided them his special soothing pats . Those two dogs are so happy you’d think it’s been weeks instead of days of missing “their Wes”!
After I read to Wes he commented, “Yes, Louis and I were the same age and good friends.” He then said, “In the dry thirties no one lived on that piece of land which most recently was the “Louis Schimetz” hobby farm. Wes also told me, “The land was always kind of swampy” then recalled during the long drought of the thirties his father needed hay. And the swampy ground did have hay.
So, Wes a mere lad, was put on the dump rake. He said, That bumpy^bumpy^ ground made it difficult for me to stand on the rake, because I was to short to sit on the seat. I had to hang on or fall off. The poor horses got bad sores from the harness rubbing their hides raw as the rake jogged up and down this way and that.”
His father was happy to have whatever hay there was for the cattle. Also, during the winter’s of the thirties, in the fall, his dad purchased a big barrel of molasses to put on straw for feed. Wes said, “He continued to ride rake on that bumpy land for a more few summers, until one dayŠ.the rains finally came.
Later. Vickie
Vickie Metcalfe & ND Eulogies
From Erling Landsverk (44): Portage, WI
Hi Gary and Everyone:
As I was perusing your last blog, I came across a disertation by Vickie metcalfe. She is not only a gifted story teller she is an astute scholar of human behavior. Her description of the dunseith folks and their varied ancestories is so very much on the mark. In addition to that I must add that the balance of the population acted and lived the same way. A kind of good Neighbor policy that was voluntary and practiced by everyone.
On my last visit I had the good fortune of meeting many of the younger generation of our old neighbors and friends. They are exact clones in their social behavior. They all seem to exude a friendly and cheerful attitude. They are considerate, hard working and are not judgemental. They are all a refreshing change from other states I have visited. I guess I have said it before but there is really something unique about the people of North Dakota One has only to experience it and it becomes very evident. I enjoyed very much vickie’s recipe for egg nog. She has such a clever way of telling things, that one feels almost like we are right next to her in her home Thank you Vickie for a great recipe. I would like to add that I met vickie for the first time while on our visit for the one room school reunion. I met her in the Bakery. She made a lot of things work better for my sister Borg and I, and her genuine friendliness was really appreciated. Vickie has a gift for writing about events that keeps a person reading it I have an idea there could be a collection of short stories that will hit the market with a big splash.
Erling Landsverk
Unknown Boy pictured with John Awalt
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
Gary,Lloyd, Dick etal…
Now I’m on board sleuthing.
We’ve agree the photo is of John Awalt, the horse is quite gentle, and it is a summer photo.
I do remember, sometimes neighbors loaning horses out to give “city kids’ who came visiting a taste of country.
Myself, I thought that horse sure looks my brothers old mare from childhood, Dolly.
Or, the Uncle Jim Metcalfe’s pony, Scottie.
I recall, John Awalt was around our farm for a time in the early 70’s doing finish carpentry. He and Gertrude also frequently visited with my Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary. They were all together at the 50th wedding anniversary of Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary in ’73, as they were the wedding attendants at the Sept. 1923 wedding.
Does any one remember seeing a shed like that with the boards running vertical?
Does the photo have the year printed?
Hmmm. Perhaps folks should take a closer look at the horse, then just maybe identification of the little boy will happen?
With luck we can!, Vickie
Unknown boy with John Awalt
Dunseith News
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND
Bernadette’s niece snapped this picture of us as we were leaving going out for dinner in celebration of our 32nd Anniversary
12/3/10
Gary & Bernadette Stokes
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12/06/2010
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Kochevar and Schimetz families
Reply from Mark Schimetz (70): Rolette, ND
To Gary and friends, an excerpt I recalled for Vicky Metcalf’s and Wesley’s Story.
Thank You Vicky for the retelling of Wes Schneider story.
As You know the Kochevars were very close friends of the Schimetz, (Simec) family. I suspect it was Jake Kochevar that Wesley was talking about. Jake was the father of Lillie Kochevar, Lilly lived just a half mile west of Joe Schimetz’s farm,(Which was won in a card game). Joe was the oldest and first of the 3 Schimetz men that came to the USA, while great strife was occurring in Austria and surrounding countries. Joe came over as a stowaway and was caught and put into a chain gang in Florida. Joe later escaped with dogs and men on his tail in the swamps of Florida, and arrived later in North Dakota. Joes farm was later inherited by John and Franseca (Sasak)Schimetz farm. Then Later by Louis Schimetz Hobby Farmed the same ground with exotic Birds and other animals. My Grandfather John and Franseca first farm lived on was where Ingolf Medlang later lived. My Dad Louis was often at the Christianson farm where Ray and his siblings lived, not far away.
Recipe from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND
Gary and Mark,
Thank you Mark for stories and photos of the Kotchevar’s and Schimetz’. I recall, your dad, Louis was also an oral story teller. We are of the generation so lucky to have had no t,v. then t.v.’s!
Your comments about Wes and his stories of life in the foothills West of Dunseith, Dunseith and Dunseith School will delight him. He likes sharing his stories, and hearing back from folks.
I’ll print out and share your insights with Wes. I know he will enjoy hearing your Schimetz history. Perhaps your reply will spurn him on anew.
Oral history stories are fascinating, especially when relationships and feelings are uncovered. I’ve enjoyed Wes telling stories which talk about early Dunseith folks; including his German father, the Kotchevars,the Austrian Schimetz’, my own Grandma Rose, the Egberts, folks like KC of Lebanese descent and others interacting with each other.
I ‘ve come to believe; These folks,our role models, put aside many differences including, nationality,religion, language and color. NO,they did not lose that identity they were proud of where they came from.
They were just keenly aware of the need for mutual respect for human dignity which pulled them all together to build a community.
Flash forward to 2010 to a little Dunseith blog community fashioned by Gary S. and Dunseith alumni does it not? Many folks from all corners of the “blog” community who continue sharing common identity.
Regards. Vickie
Home made Egg Nog
Recipe from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND
Gary and friends.
My friends, Wes and his son in law were processing deer sausage last week.
I have to tell you all, sausage recipes are not to be found in this gal’s recipe box.
Here it is the holiday season and I, like Scrooge am dreaming of Christmas’ Past. My Christmas past like yours, contains a lot of holiday memories and comfort foods.
Is there any one else out there who has a Christmas or New Years story to share? I will start with the first recipe I learned from scratch.
Egg Nog
I am my father’s daughter. My parents taught me how to savor “good food” and the love of sharing a meal with special people.
Although, I really disliked having to wait for my dad the times he was late with the chores, our mother was a stickler for our family eating together. Most often at the worn oak cottage table that came along, when they purchased “Acorn Hill” farm. We ate every meal together. Breakfast, dinner and supper. Dad at the head, mom at the foot, my sister and I separated by wood and Š..dad’s long reach!
Yep, For the longest time I was …second child. And the bane of an older sister’s existence. I could walk. She needed to be carried. She had been stricken with rheumatic fever. I, as healthy as the Campbell soup kid.
The earliest memory cooking was making egg nog from scratch with my older sister. Mom decided, she needed the wholesome nutrition. So, every night, we’d place the big taupe-clay colored pottery bowl on a kitchen chair. Then, I’d claim another chair to stand on to dig for the hand beater. While mom found the necessary ingredients. Fresh eggs from the chicken coop next to the separating room housed in the warm barn. Whole milk from our cows morning milking, along with store bought white sugar and McCormick vanilla.
With my insistence, we’d each get one egg to crack. I enjoyed perusing the eggs and making choice selections. My sister thin, frail and pale. Me. Short, stout and a little kid as wide as she was tall who could barely reach up over the bowl. Yet, I as stubborn as my MacLean genes would allow, spun that handle standing on my tippy toes leaning onto the chair which held the bowl.
All the while, my older sister fretted to our mother, “the eggs are not mixed properly, Yuck, they’re slimy and ick an egg shell! Because she was taller and older, she got to pour the two cups of whole milk, usually it was pure cream which had come to the top. Then measure the sugar, and add the vanilla. Ah. The aroma of pure vanilla! I guess my accommodation to this deal was the spinning of the handle to the mixture. When I got tired, I put the hand mixer into the dishpan and gave that a few turns……. That made nice bubbles..
While,she poured the concoction into the green, pink, orange or yellow metal glasses. Oh, no! Oft time’s I’d tangle the dish rag in the hand mixer while I was giving it one last spin in the dish pan. Mom would come to my rescue. And yes, of course, we had our favorite glasses according to my sister. Hers was pink! And I never said a word if I happened to find an egg shell or a piece of slimy egg white. I’d say, Yep it’s fine it’s just the way I like it.
We’d slurp the slimy concoction through paper straws. We’d find lots of undiluted sugar at the bottom. Of course this fat little sister’s loud slurps and sometimes unladylike belches frequently irked the big sister. ( Well that was the idea isn’t it? Little siblings are put on earth to bug older ones!)
We were responsible to do the dishes. My older sister always got to wash because I inevitably didn’t do it properly. Actually, ok the truth? I’d wipe because I loved the flavour of the end of a wet dish towel.
Well given time and years, my sister and I both grew tall and out grew eggnog making on kitchen chairs. Traditions changed.
Egg nog was made again by our mother. So smooth and pure with aromatic vanilla…..
Hum. Our mother’s dear neighbor friend was Wayne S’s mom who introduced a little New Years cheer to the eggnog. Now, we girls of Lottie, all cherish a recipe in our cookbooks entitled Audreys’ Egg Nog.
Be of good cheer! Only 20 days! I believe in Santa, like I believe in Nessie and most of all in fond memories! Vickie
Unknown Boy on the horse pictured with John Awalt
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
This afternoon we had a museum meeting after which I stopped by Marlene Striker’s with a print out of the picture of John Awalt, Sr. and the small kid on the pony. It took only a glance and she said, “That’s not Dustin.” Mothers know. So Lloyd, it’s back to you I guess. I don’t know of anyone that age named Carl from around this area either. Sorry, my guess was wrong. Thanks Gary! Dick John Awalt with unkown boy on horse
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12/05/2010
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“Happy Birthday” to Tim Hill (68)
From Debbie Fugere Fauske (75): Minot, ND
Happy Belated Birthday, Tim!!!! Here’s to many many more!!! You look great!
Debbie Fauske
Horse Stories – Sharon Peterson – Sharlotte Nordquist
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
Lee Stickland has a good memory. Sharlotte Nordquist was a horse lover for sure. She collected plastic minature horses, she drew horses, and she rode horse every chance she got. When she stayed at the farm, we rode somewhere every day. She was a good friend of Sharon Peterson, who also liked to ride and owned a nice horse. I usually let Sharlotte ride my Welsh mare and I rode the half wild two year old colt. I only had one saddle that was decent so I let her use that and I used an old McClellen cavalry saddle probably of Civil War vintage. We used to ride up to the swimming beach at School Section Lake, a mile and a half from the farm. It was real dry and hot in the summer of ’61 and by the time we got to the lake both of us and the horses were all bit up by the horse flies. The horses would run into the lake and swim around–with us still on them. The first time we tried to hold them back and not soak the saddles but after that we just rode bareback and let them go. We went there to swim anyway so it didn’t matter. One time we had more riders than horses so I went over to Smiths and borrowed an old dapple gray mare named ‘Belle’. Unknown to me, she had been a cutting horse in, I think, Montana before Smiths got her. We had several horses of all kinds and sizes and decided to race out to and around a haystack and back. That day I was riding old Belle and when we got to the stack, I really laid the reins hard to the side of her neck to turn. I was never so surprised in my life when that old horse laid over nearly flat on her way around the stack. The rest of the nags were standing straight up skipping sideways and trying to turn and I was half way back by the time they got around the stack. I think the old horse enjoyed it as much as I did so we made a few more rounds. She might have been older but she never forgot her job! Another deal was that Sharon Peterson’s little brother, Larrett, always wanted to go along when we rode but he didn’t have another horse except for one of Bill’s old team of Belgian work horses named Cip and Cap. Larrett would only have been 7 or 8 and even a bit small for his age but he would go and catch one of those huge old horses and before we could get out of their yard he had a bridle on one and would climb the fence to get on and here he would come riding with his legs sticking straight out to the side bouncing from side to side. He couldn’t get off unless he had something to climb up to get back on. He would stick with us all day. I don’t think you could have found a smaller kid or a bigger horse in the country! I remember Sharon had named her horse ‘Shawnee Lee’–I thought that was neat. It was a good looking horse too, with lots of spirit. Do you think the ladies like horse stories better than those boring car stories? Thanks Gary! Dick Obituaries posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Willard Wendell Lasher, 95, Bottineau, died Monday, Nov. 29, 2010, in a Bottineau hospital.
He was born Jan. 26, 1915, to Ben and Melvina Lasher, at Edmonds. He served in the Coast Guard from July 31, 1942, to Nov. 24, 1945. He married Ruby Neubauer on Oct. 27, 1946, in Bottineau. Survivors: wife; daughters, Connie Kahn, Rio Rancho, N.M., and Sandra Thompson, Bottineau; six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sisters, Lillian Beyer, Bottineau, and Beulah Hoaglund, St. Paul, Minn. Funeral: Monday, 3 p.m., Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Bottineau. Burial: Oak Creek Cemetery, Bottineau, in the spring. Visitation: Sunday, 1 to 9 p.m., and Monday, 9 a.m. to noon, Nero Funeral Home, Bottineau. Darlyne E. Melgaard •1930- 2010
Darlyne E. Melgaard, 80, Minot, formerly of Bottineau and Newburg, died Tuesday, November 30, 2010 in a Minot hospital. Darlyne E. Pladson was born on July 11, 1930, to Theodore and Marie (Jacobson) Pladson in Columbus, ND. She was raised and educated in the Turtle Mountains. On July 25, 1948, Darlyne was united in marriage to Clarence Melgaard at the Salem Lutheran Church, rural Bottineau. They made their home in Bottineau and later in Newburg where Darlyne was a devoted mother and homemaker. In 2005, after Clarence retired, they moved to Minot. Darlyne had a love of music from a very early age. Her passion was playing the guitar and singing with family and friends. Darlyne and Clarence also provided music over the years at various community functions and nursing homes. She also enjoyed baking cookies and buns and was known for her great potato salad. She was currently a member of the Minot First Assembly of God Church and was active in coffee Bible study groups in Bottineau and Newburg. She is survived by: Husband of 62 years, Clarence, Minot; children: Connie (Stephen) Harish, Devils Lake, ND, Larry (Janeen) Melgaard, Kenmare, ND, Dean (Janice) Melgaard, Bismarck, ND, Gaylen (Diane) Melgaard, Minot; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren: sister: Delores Holdaas, Seattle, WA; sister-in-law: Jean Pladson, Lake Metigoshe, ND.
Darlyne was preceded in death by her parents, brother Duane Pladson and nephew Jim Pladson.
Visitation: Sunday, December 5, 2010 from 1 until 5 pm at Thompson Larson Funeral Home, Minot Funeral Service: Monday, December 6, 2010, at 11 am at First Assembly of God Church, Minot
Burial: Will take place in the spring of 2011 at Salem Lutheran Church Cemetery, Turtle Mountains
Christmas Poem from Travis Metcalfe (76): Mesa, AZ
Posted by Vickie Metcalfe (68): Bottineau, ND
Gary,
This note is for your information as a veteran from the area who may be interested.
Here in Bottineau, I was not to happy last month when I read in the Bottineau Courant;
County commissioners voted to put the Veterans offices in the county shop rather than house the office in the courthouse… the reason…..no room.
I was incredulous and angry,I thought, “Do we want our soldiers to protect our country and stand in front of of us looking danger in the eye? Then like used goods…….throw them out to travel out to the county shop to seek services when needed?”
I was relieved when local veterans expressed their disapproval..
As I understand it, now the CDC building on main street has opened a space for the office.
The following fwd so fitting, was sent to me by my cousin Travis M.
Vickie
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12/04/2010
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12/03/2010
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12/01/2010
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STEVEN KNUDSON 
