The dictionary provides the following definition of community:

Community noun com·mu·ni·ty k-myü-n-tē plural communities, 1: a) unified body of individuals: such as a)the people with common interests living in a particular area broadly : the area itself b) a group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society c) a body of persons of common and especially professional interests scattered through a larger society 2: a) a social state or condition c) joint ownership or participation c: common character d: social activity 3: society at large the interests of the community Synonyms: town; neighborhood; city; village; commune

It is apparent from the definition that community does not exist without people. In the Jackson County area we have always been blessed with people that believe in their community and are willing to give of their time, talents and money. In 2025, we are saddened to lose several folks that contributed to our community in a variety of ways. Their kindness, generosity, and willingness to help was always appreciated and they will be both remembered and missed.

Some of these people gave back through their careers, working in fields of health care or education. Others cooked for and waited on us in restaurants or drove school buses. They worked on everything from our health to our hair, from our plumbing to our cars and lawnmowers. Some worked as support staff in our schools, nursing homes and hospitals, helping care for the young, the elderly, and the sick. Some used their talents to entertain us with their music through involvement in local bands and choirs. Still others fed us at church dinners, celebrations and funerals, and worked to feed the hungry.

Yet others volunteered their time working as fire fighters, first responders, coaches, mentors and care givers. Several provided leadership by serving on boards for the day care, hospital, school districts, financial institutions, cooperatives, recreational and volunteer groups, and churches. Some gave back by belonging to service clubs, such as Lions, Rotary, Jaycees, Masons, and the Knights of Columbus. Many volunteered with churches and organizations such as Friends Sharing Food, Interfaith Volunteers, Jackson County Dairy Committee and Fair Board, the American Legion, and Clothing Closets. Volunteers made quilts and beds and read to children in our schools. At the Library they helped people learn to read and improve their English-speaking skills. Some served in elected positions in our city, towns and county.

Several of those that have recently passed, touched the lives of almost everyone in the community through their careers, their volunteerism and their philanthropy. Doctors Gene Krohn and Al Lahmayer come to mind. These two civic leaders dedicated their lives to the people of Jackson County.

Lois ‘Chipper’ Wyss gave back by simply ‘being’. Her kindness, generosity, beautiful smile, and outgoing personality, brought joy wherever she went. Lillian Hart dedicated years to Jackson County through her work at the extension office and her involvement with the fair. Judy Olson was probably best known by her alter-ego, Mrs. Santa Clause, who appeared each year during our Christkindl Festival. Dennis ‘Gabby’ Eberhardt lead us as County Board Chairman for many years. Long time educators Dave McCullough and Mary J. Hansen taught students and then taught those students’ children. Who can ever forget Brenda Fisher’s fry bread? Pete Moe waited on us at his family’s third generation hardware store, participated in countless fundraisers and town events, and often won the fair’s pie eating contest!

It would be impossible to list all the ways each of these people gave back to their community. It is also impossible to be certain that I didn’t miss anyone on my list. Know that any omissions were certainly not intentional. Please join me in taking a moment to remember and be grateful for the dedicated community members we lost in 2025.

Julie Murray,
Executive Director