MAIDSTONE — It was with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Shelley Wichman, a vibrant and cherished member of the Maidstone community. Sincere sympathy is extended to her husband, Doug "Boone;" children Randi (Cody), Ally (Matt), Chris, Walter (Kendall) and Dallas; seven grandchildren; her parents: Laurie and Connie Donald; and numerous other family and friends. As a dedicated mother, hairdresser, Legion member and beloved friend, Shelley was known to many of us. Her laughter will always be a cherished memory. Shelley had a deep love for family, including her loyal puppy Sophie, and friends with whom she enjoyed winter travels, summers at the lake, golfing and so many special times. A celebration of life will be held at Silver Lake this summer.
Gunnar Gustafson passed away at Pine Island Lodge in Maidstone on March 28 at the age of 70 years. Condolences are sent to his wife, Rachel; his foster family, the Hults, and all his friends. Gunnar was a longtime resident of Maidstone and formerly of Waseca. As he wished, Gunnar was cremated following a farewell gathering of his family.
Neil Bettcher passed away at 71 years of age on April 1 at Pine Island Lodge in Maidstone, after a lengthy illness. Condolences go out to his brother, Gordon (Carol); sister, Jean (Eugene); niece, Andrea (Rhod); nephews, Chris (Laura), Marc (Tanya); and numerous other family and friends. I recall Neil coming to a few garage sales over the years, always interested in a good conversation and unique or antique items. Neil was knowledgeable and skilled in many areas. A family graveside service will be held at Maidstone Cemetery.
Sympathy is also extended to Melanie Freeston on the passing of her husband, Morris, and to her brothers, Kevin (Yvonne) and Keith (Debbie) Pike; and to Brent (Jeannette) Pilling of Maidstone in the loss of his mother, Adella Pilling of Turtleford.
Congratulations to Louise Hume, who took home $221 in the Legion Club Room's Chase the Ace draw. She didn't find the ace so the jackpot climbed from $4,478 with 38 cards left.
Following are the high bowling scores for Week 25. Youth Junior: Stone 148, Theo 121; Senior: Ben 172, Jack 133. Ladies’: Della R 223, Tara B 202. Senior Ladies’: Doreen H 221, Pat A 211; Men: Keven K 210, Walter K 206. Business Ladies’: Kyla P 204, Melissa P 192; Men: Kyle G 248, Ryan D 245. High Triples: Ryan 659, Doreen 616, Della 597, Walter 551, Melissa 548. With this being the last week of league bowling, the following are high averages for the year. Youth Junior: Will 132, Stone 121; Senior: Jack 174, Ben 154. Ladies’: Sandra McMartin 163, Brenda Mitchell 161. Senior Ladies’: Pat Armstrong 169, Doreen Hope 157; Men: Keith Milner 182, Walter Kohuch 168. Business Ladies’: Melissa Paton 187, Carly James 160; Men: Matt Sayers 195, Ryan Donovan 194. Awards and a potluck banquet will be Saturday, April 26.
The first Family Games Night on April 3 at the bowling alley was attended by about 12 people. Scrabble, Ticket to Ride and an Exploding Kitten game were chosen to play and everyone had a great time. It was decided that as long as children can play the games available, we won't set a firm age limit. The night of play will fluctuate in hopes of drawing others who may not be available on a specific evening. We also hope to include some weekends. I really enjoyed the first one and hope to go again this week.
Belated congratulations to Maidstone Jets U15 team on winning the STEP League, and to Jets U11 team on winning the B Side. See the separate write-up with details on Maidstone Senior Jets Awards Night.
On April 6, Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H Club hosted a pancake dinner. We had a great turnout of about 100 people and we cooked up a lot of food (reported by Saidai Mosher). Added by Kathy Utri: Tables were decorated with brightly coloured tablecloths and napkins as well as fresh tulips. Congratulations to Maurice Thomarat, who won the door prize, a 4-H anniversary cookbook and an Easter lily. Thank you to everyone who came out to support the group and to the 4-H members who did a wonderful job of looking after their patrons.
Waseca Recreation Board’s 11th annual fish fry is on Saturday, April 26 at Waseca Community Hall. Doors open at 4 p.m., supper at 5:30 p.m. The event featurescomedian Lori Ferguson, a live auction and a silent auction on 32 auctions from April 11 to 26. DD service will be available. For dine-in, contact Rodney 306-893-7422 or Ronald 306-903-7772; for drive-through, contact Jessica 780-870-4687.
Maidstone High School Drama '25 production dinner theatres will be on Wednesday, April 30 and Thursday, May 1 at 6 p.m. A different meal will be catered each evening. Last day to buy tickets is April 17. Call Kerry Olson 306-893-2351.
Reminders:
• Saturday, April 12 - Milleton Hall's "Rhythm and Blues" dinner theatre by Spruce Lake Play Group. Call Kelsi 306-895-8353.
• Good Friday, April 18 - Final Lenten lunch. Service at 11 a.m. at Grace Community Church (212–4th Ave. E.) with lunch to follow. Donation basket.
