Back-to-School Bash a success

The Back-to-School Bash at Evergreen Baptist Church Wednesday, Aug. 23, was certainly a success. Around 118 children and adults attended. There were all sorts of tacos, and Kona Ice was served. Everyone had a wonderful time.

The funeral for John Dee Bertling was held at Nobles Funeral Chapel in Navasota with a full crowd. He was born June 24, 1938 to Roger Dee and Frances Bertling in McKinney. He graduated from Smiley High School in Houston then served in theAir Force. After many activities he moved to Iola where he owned a cement plant. He was also a cattle rancher.

Bertling was blessed with three sons, Roger, Keith, Kevin and several grandchildren. He and his special friend, Sharon Isbell, spent the last years of his life with them. Dr. Tim Owens officiated the funeral. Burial was held in Concord Cemetery. Also officiating the burial was Bryan VFW, Bedias Masonic Lodge No. 651 and Orphans Friend Masonic Lodge N0. 17. He was a member of both lodges. The Masonic tribute was led by Billie Simon. Following the burial, a meal was served at Log Cabin in Iola. Do remember his loved ones in your prayers.

Iola North Zulch Order of the Eastern Star held their monthly meeting Aug. 28. The meeting began with a covered dish meal that was enjoyed by all in attendance. This was followed by the Star meeting. A variety of business was discussed and handled. During the meeting the death of member Jean Elizabeth Gray was announced. Shed died July 26. A special memorial service was held in her memory. She was a longtime member and will certainly be missed.

Area residents were sorry to learn of the death of Carolyn Kellogg who passed away Monday, Aug. 28, following a brief illness. Her funeral was held Tuesday, Sept. 5, at Evergreen Cemetery. I’ll have more information in my next column. Do remember her husband Tony and other family members in your prayers.

Happy birthday this week to: Sept. 3 – Phyllis Falco, Trisha Mosier; Sept. 4 – Tatum Court Creamer; Sept. 5 Andy Selman, twins David Ray Burroughs and Mary Ruth Burroughs; Sept. 6 – Peyton Ray Brown, John Ruen; Sept. 8 – Larry Crenshaw; Sept. 9 – Minerva Compian Hollingsworth, Sherrie Walpole, Bill Rogagen. Do hope your special day was a happy one.

Happy anniversary this week to the following: Chase and Hillary Trant Baker, married Sept. 8, 2018; Alec and Crystal Pointer, married Sept. 4; Robert Taylor and Alishan Galvan Masters, married Sept. 3, 2005. Join me in wishing them many more years of happiness together.

If you have any Keith news, call either my cell phone at 936870-6094 or my house number at 936-394-8273.