The Prophetstown RNA Youth Chapter 516, friends, neighbors and relatives gathered together to celebrate the 80^th birthday of Wilma Koenig. Born February 17, 1930, at her grandparents’ Dairy farm that is located just south west of Tampico.

Since the RNA youth members were in school during the event, they got together on their day off last Monday, (Presidents’ Day) and made special birthday cards as well as center piece decorations for the tables. The centerpieces were made from photographs of real cows from Wilma’s Dairy farm. RNA Youth Director Shelly Jaquet and her daughter Kim presented the cards to Wilma. Jen Lucas, mother of youth group member, Ally Lucas, also made home-made pumpkin pies for the occasion.

Brenda Coers, a neighbor, gave Wilma a hand-made wooden cross to display on her table top. Cousins Bud & Arlene Dietz, Elmer & Ed Von Holten, Marie Schulte, Martin & Mary Cheryl Von Holton, and big brother Oscar Koenig joined the birthday lady at her table and shared memories and fun times amongst themselves. Wilma is best known for her musical talent in playing the organ and was the organist at many weddings in the area.

(Contact Denise McLoughlin if you would like copies of photographs of Wilma’s party. 815-590-2143 or email ddm1050@hotmail.com)

Printed in the Prophetstown Echo