55 years ago

September 1, 1966

A former Marion boy, who lost his legs here 63 years ago returned this past week with his family and found the town just as hospitable and friendly as it was when he left.

David Krell lost his legs near the Rock Island depot in 1903 while playing with other boys and had an accident with a train.

The family moved to Canada in 1905 and he hadn’t been back since returning for a visit in 1910.

He especially remembers the park and says it is as beautiful as ever. He didn’t find any friends but thought the town looked familiar, with many new improvements.

Judy Pankratz of Marion was crowned 1966 Marion County Fair Queen by the 1965 Queen, Linda Strome, as the concluding highlight of this year’s fair at Hillsboro. Other finalists were Faith Kleinsasser of Hillsboro and Leslie Clark of Peabody. Kristine Schubert of Lincolnville was the swim suit competition winner.

“I am expecting great things out of our football team this year,” says Coach LeRoy Dreier. There are 14 lettermen returning from last year’s squad, and nine of 11 men are returning from the team’s last year’s defensive unit.” “This should give us a much stronger defense than we’ve had for some time,” Dreier said.

The engagement of LaVonda Marie Hett to Lewis I. Rothman of Queens, New York, is announced by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Hett. No wedding date has been set.

Gerry Harris, Marion Ford dealer, was voted the “most valuable player” this past week at the state regional softball tournament held at Solomon. He received a glove valued at $27 and a large trophy.