I went into the U.S. Army right after graduation. I went to school for the Army Security Agency and trained to be a “CRYPTOGRAPHER” – someone who codes and decodes Top Secret information and messages.
In November of 1959 I was involved in a severe automobile accident, which left me hospitalized for the remainder of 1959 and most of 1960 in Waukegan Illinois at the Great Lakes Naval Hospital. In October of 1960 I was transferred to the Veterans Hospital in Des Moines Ia. until the middle of 1961. I had a full leg brace and crutches. I was Medically Retired from the Army in October of 1960.
It was then I began my trek into the world of retail business – I was a gas jockey for Herb Garlock Shell, then I moved on to work at Western Truck Stop in Clear Lake.
In 1965 I was offered the opportunity to start out as an apprentice Photo-Engraver for the Mason City Globe Gazette. I made Journeyman in five years, then transferred to the Pressroom. Towards the end I was "night foreman". This meant I got all the grief but not much more money! All in all, I did 24 years for the Globe Gazette and medically retired in October of 1988.
I was married twice; the first time was to Diane Groh, from LuVerne Ia. We were married for twelve years, from 1961 to 1973. I am sad to say that Dyan passed away on March 5, 2003 from a stroke and other complications.
The second marriage was to Joan Marie Stiles (Nee) Lessor from Mason City Ia. That marriage lasted from 1975 to 1983.
I tell everyone there is only one thing worse than a two-time loser… and that is a three time loser! So, that chapter of my life is closed. I’ve been alone since the last divorce.
Now I spend my time giving advice to my 5 grown children, as well as my grandchildren.
Family 3 daughters-- Angella D. Gilyard, Tammy L. Jacky and son -in-law Chuck Jacky, Kemberly D. Drotzmann and son-in-law, Dr. David Drotzmann O.D.
2 sons--Kevin K. Snow and better half Cathy Snow, Daryl R. Snow and better half Heather Snow
8 grandchildren and 1 little angel in Heaven, Allisha Dyan, Branden, Gina, Derek, Kari Dyan, Gavin Allen, Abigail Dyan, and Holly, and my little angel in heaven, Christopher Ryan.
I also have several Great Grandchildren, 4 are pictured here. Tucker, Tate, Hannah, and the newest edition, three-month-old Kialah Rose.
