Geneva, Ellendale observe Memorial Day

Jerry Ibberson and Larry Crabtree were emcees on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26 for ceremonies held at both the Geneva Cemetery and the Ellendale Lutheran Cemetery. They spoke of veterans, both the fallen and the ones at home. The NRHEG Choir, directed by Krista Reeder, sang “America the Beautiful” as a wreath was laid.

Even though it was a solemn day to give quiet reflection and thought, it was beautiful weather, with full sunshine and partial clouds. Jerry Ibberson and Chaplain Larry Crabtree of the Ellendale American Legion were on hand to pay their respects and to speak.

Those in attendance at the Geneva Cemetery stood or sat on their own lawn chairs or blankets. The mood was solemnly respectful throughout the ceremony, including the 21-gun salute and the playing of “Taps.” To close, Crabtree, who served in Okinawa, read a poem titled, “A Common Soldier.”

With observances in Geneva complete, ceremony participants gathered their items to move to Ellendale, where an equally respectful ceremony was held at the Ellendale Lutheran Cemetery. Ibberson and Crabtree again gave it their all in speaking of those who gave all. Karen Knudson, with the assistance of Heather Crabtree-Krenke, laid a wreath at the grave of Karen’s son, Daniel Keith Knudson, as “Taps” was played. A small group lingered for personal reflection as others packed up and departed.