By Bob Fenske

editor@nhtrib.com

Maybe it’s the simplicity of it all that makes Breakfast with Santa conjure up a simpler time or a Norman Rockwell painting.

Beverly Shinstine, age 62 of Ionia, died Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family.

Ronald Lee Kuennen, age 63 of Hawkeye, passed away peacefully at Gunderson Palmer in West Union on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023.

Ron was born on June 5, 1960 to Neil and Irma (Tupy) Kuennen of Waucoma.

Shirley M. Billings, age 72 of Nashua, died Monday, Dec. 11, 2023, at 9th St. Chautauqua Guest Homes in Charles City, surrounded by her family.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Rosemary Carpenter, age 68 of North Washington, died Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023, at UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital in Waterloo.

Blake Alan Bast, age 31 of New Hampton, died Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics in Iowa City, surrounded by his family.

A celebration of life will be held in Blake’s honor at a later date.

Shirley M. Blazek, age 88 of Lawler died Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, at Colonial Manor of Elma.

Ronald Lechtenberg, age 82 of Ionia, died Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023, at his home.