Two Noras: June 30, 1914 and June 30, 2021

Nora Bauer: Tuesday, June 30, 1914

Mr. Funk was buried this afternoon. Gertrude and I went out walking and landed at Courtney's. Had a good time. 

Nora Spitznogle: Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Wrote, rewrote and tweaked Dad's eulogy and practiced it until I was hoarse. Decided what to wear for funeral tomorrow. 

Mr. Funk was a prominent citizen of Logansport. There were dozens of articles signing his praises after his death. I love how much information the obituaries of this era where - I learned that he was the father-in-law of Mr. Barnes (Grandma Nora's employer) sister. 

Nora's younger sister, Gertrude graduated with Adelaide Courtney, so I'm guessing that's who they went to visit. 

Today was low-key. I was in a slight panic about what to wear to the funeral so I grabbed all of my black dresses and took them into Marigold so I could see myself in the three-way mirror and get the opinion of fashionable women that work there. We landed on a black tank topped by a loose cowl neck dress and a longer jacket. I always say, why wear just one Marigold dress when you could wear two? 

I spent the day writing the eulogy and reading it out loud and tweaking it. I was trying to keep it under five minutes, but it's closer to seven, even with cutting out chunks. I kept practicing until I didn't need to look at my notes too closely. 

I tried to go to bed at a sensible hour, but sleep is eluding me. 

Two Noras: June 29, 1914 and June 29, 2021

Nora Bauer: Monday, June 29, 1914

Was up town this morning and also this afternoon. Kate went back this noon. Bought Paul a birthday present and sent it to him. 

Nora Spitznogle: Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Worked on downloading photos to a flash drive to take to funeral home for montage. The lack of internet and service call very frustrating. 

I assume that Grandma Nora is talking about Kate Porter, not her Aunt Kate. I still don't know where Kate was living at the time. 

Grandma Nora listed Paul's gift in her cash accounting in the back of the journal - $2.50 for the gift and .03 cents for the postage. I wonder what she got him? 

This lack of internet thing is frustrating. They finally came for the service call this afternoon. The guy did a really sloppy job - the wire is hanging so low in the backyard that it's only five feet from the ground and he left a big spool of wire in the middle of the yard, but I'll  to deal with that later - I have WiFi and that's the big thing. 

I drove to the Farm to grab photos from Ann's computer and add a few that were at the house. I delivered it to the funeral home with just minutes to spare. 

I also called as many of Dad's godchildren as a could - Dad requested that his godchildren be pallbearers. 

Ann and Tim are staying at the Farm, Mom, Beth and Troy, and my friend Kassie joined us. Two of Ann's friends from Phoenix were passing through and were spending the night also. 

A friend of J.R. and Anna's had sandwiches and cheese trays and such delivered. We ate and played Euchre. It turned out to be a nice evening. 

Two Noras: June 28, 1914 and June 28, 2021

Nora Bauer: Sunday, June 28, 1914

Was real cool all day today. Was up to Rothermel's this afternoon. Aunt Kate was over all day today. We had ice cream and cake for lunch this even. Paul had a birthday cake. 

Nora Spitznogle, Monday, June 28, 2021

Worked on Dad's obituary today. Didn't get out of pajamas until time to meet with the folks at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Lebanon to plan funeral Mass. We picked out readings and songs.  

I'm pretty sure that Louise, that Grandma Nora has mentioned before here and here is a Rothermel. It's nice that Aunt Kate is still hanging out with her late husband's family. 

This is another passage that I'd read to Dad last week. He wanted to hear what happened on his dad, Nora's beau, Paul's birthday. 

Apparently there was cake and ice cream, but Nora wrote about the day in such a jumbled fashion, it's hard to tell if there was a celebration or not for Paul's 21st birthday. 

Frustratingly, my internet has been offline since last Thursday, it's made things hard - like gathering and sharing photographs and communication in general. At least it's been a good excuse to not look at work emails and such. 

I met my siblings and their spouses at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Lebanon - the parish we grew up in and Dad's home parish. We made decisions about songs and readings and timing and who will be involved. 

I was able to read the obituary to my siblings and get some feedback before I hit send. 

John Vincent Spitznogle, 85, died Saturday evening, June 26, 2021, surrounded by his family. Born April 8, 1936, in Cass County, Indiana to Nora Bauer and Paul Carl Spitznogle, he was the youngest of 10. He was baptized at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Logansport, where his grandfather, Felix Bauer, made the 650,000 bricks used to build the church.

He attended Saint Joseph Roman Catholic School through the eighth grade, where he made life-long friends. He was a proud graduate of Washington Township High School, he was an enthusiastic member of the Yell Team – Go Hatchets!

After a stint as a cook in the U.S. Army, he was accepted as an apprentice at General Motors; he retired from in 2001 after 44 years as a Tool and Die Maker. He was grateful for the opportunity to provide for his family and the great friendships he made there.

John and his wife Meg, moved to Boone County shortly after their 1960 marriage, raising four children and tackling farming as a second job. They purchased the home farm, naming it Chinkapin Oak Farm after the large oak tree in the back yard. Whether the tree is actually a Chinkapin is up for debate.

 He was a dedicated and faithful member of Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Lebanon, where he enjoyed membership in the Holy Name Men’s Club, the Knights of Columbus, Cursillo, and any committee that would have him, and also provided sweet corn for funeral dinners. He was thrilled that a church capital campaign was marketed around the idea of getting him off the roof. He was most proud of being able to use his wood working skills to help make the altar in the renovated church. 

 John’s hobbies included lovingly restoring furniture, salvaging wood from buildings that were being torn down, travelling, entering projects in the Boone County Fair, cheering for Purdue, volunteering at Second Helpings, wine making, his Friday evening “Whitestown Run,” and woodworking – including making his own casket. 

 He loved hosting parties, including the annual Holy Name Steak Fry in the 1970s, square dances, wedding receptions, hayrides, and his epic Martin Luther King, Jr. Fish Fry that began as a group of his GM buddies frying fish, playing Euchre, and imbibing in his wine in 1989.

John is survived by the two lights-of-his life his grandchildren, Molly and John David Spitznogle, his former wife, Meg Gremelspacher Spitznogle, his children, Nora Spitznogle, Beth (Troy) Portish, John Roman (Anna) Spitznogle, and Ann (Tim) Cothron.

 He took great pleasure in being an uncle to his numerous nieces and nephews so much that he encouraged anyone who crossed his path to call him “Uncle John.”

 He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers and sisters, Eleanor, Louise, Cletus, Gertrude, Lucille, Felix, Bernadine, Joan, and Joseph.

 Family and friends will gather on Thursday, July 1 to pray the Rosary at 8:45 A.M. and for visitation from 9:00 to 11:00 at Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 319 E. South Street, Lebanon, IN 46052, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by Father Pat Click and concelebrated by Father Phil Bowers at 11:00. John will be interred at Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Lebanon.

 Memorial Contributions can be made to the Spitznogle Scholarship Fund, created to help offset tuition fees for Saint Joseph Parish students attending Guerin Catholic High School. Send donations to the Spitznogle Family Scholarship Fund, Lafayette Diocesan Foundation, P.O. Box 1687, Lafayette, IN 46902.

You are invited to visit the website www.strawmyerdrury.com where you may sign his online register and leave a personal message.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Strawmyer & Drury Mortuary, 2400 N Lebanon Street, Lebanon, Indiana 46052.

Two Noras: June 27, 1914 and June 27, 2021

Nora Bauer: Saturday, June 27, 1914

Did some tracing today. Anna Gertrude and I went up town tonight. Got home about 9 o'clock.

Nora Spitznogle: Sunday, June 27, 2021

10:30 Mass, met with funeral home, toasts and storytelling with siblings and friends at Farm after. 

This was one of the entries that I read to Dad on Wednesday. Was that only four days ago? Seems much longer. Dad and I had fun imagining his mother and aunts uptown with throngs of people and the shops open and the excitement of Saturday night. I'm sure they were dress up. We wondered why Mamie didn't go with them - maybe she was with friends or enjoying a quiet night without her sisters. 

I didn't sleep well or long, but I made it to 10:30 Mass. There were some people that I wanted to tell about Dad in person, plus there was a reception for Father Guy, who has been transferred to another parish. And I knew that there would be sandwiches. I really needed a sandwich. 

Next stop was the funeral home where Dad had preplanned most of the details, including making his own casket. We needed to decide on what day we'd like the celebration to happen and a few other details - including a burial plot since Dad hadn't purchased one yet. 

After that we all headed out to the Farm for storytelling and toasting. The siblings and their spouses and friends and neighbors and cousins and Mom all sat around the picnic table - the laughter was much appreciated. 

With my siblings permission, I announced his death on Facebook - Dad loved the social media attention and social media loved him. 

J.R., Mom, and me.

Here is what I posted on Facebook - although a family friend already had. Etiquette says that the family should announce it first. I think it's gotten to all of the relatives first, but still...

I’m sad to report that our dear Dad died peacefully at 7:11 yesterday evening.

 

All of his kiddos were with with him and we were surrounding with prayers, love, and stories. 

It’s all pretty shocking- he went to the hospital Wednesday morning...and was diagnosed with COVID-19 that afternoon. And yes, he was vaccinated. 

He sure loved all of you and the love that you showed him on social media. He always asked how many “hits” he got. He got a real kick out of people that recognized him from Facebook. 

Dad’s favorite sound was hearing his children laugh. I hope that you’ll share Dad stories with us- we’re always ready to reminisce and laugh. 

I’ll post the information about the services as soon as I know.

Two Noras: June 26, 1914 and June 26, 2021

Nora Bauer: Friday, June 26, 1914

Was out to Porter's this evening to see Kate who is home for a few days. Had a dandy time. Came home about 11 o'clock. 

Nora Spitznogle: Saturday, June 26, 2021

Stayed overnight with Dad. Ann and Tim arrived at 1:00 and we met with the PA. Dad died at 7:11 P.M., surrounded by his children. 

I couldn't find a connection between Kate Porter and Grandma Nora. That said, my newspaper search was hampered by the fact that Porter shows up a lot. There was a pharmacy named Porter's and a general store by the same name, not to mention that one of the newspapers at the time was called the Logansport Pharos Reporter and every search picked up the porter part of reporter. 

It's been an incredibly sad day. Poor papa was agitated - I held his hands to try to keep him from picking at his oxygen and numerous tubes. He kept saying, "off off." I finally realized that he wanted the covers off...and then his hospital gown. It was disconcerting to see Dad totally naked, but it calmed him down considerably. 

J.R. had brought a wooden cross from the holy land the day before - it didn't have sharp corners, more like a balloon cross, if that makes sense - Dad enjoyed holding that. 

After Beth left early this morning, I had a totally meltdown, and laid my head on his chest and sobbed. He put his hands on my hair - I'm not sure if it was to comfort me or to try to get the crazy lady away from him. 

He slept a little, then was anxious again. I started saying the rosary at 2:00 A.M., which seemed to help. After an hour I was losing my place and repeating myself and mixing the Hail Mary words up and then crying at the "hour of our death" part.

Hail Mary, Full of Grace, The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of death. Glory Be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

It dawned on my that there were probably YouTube videos of people saying the rosary - and there were. I tucked my phone next to Dad's pillow and we both settled down and dozed a bit. I'd put a pillow over the side rail of his bed and laid my head on it. I woke up with a start when Dad poked my shoulder. I wonder if I was snoring?

After a few hours of the rosary - I don't think I could have heard "at the hour of my death" one more time. I switched to Gregorian chants and that seemed to do the trick also.

Beth came back around 7:00 and I took a little breakfast break in the cafeteria.

Lacy, the PA came a talked to us, it was clear that Dad wasn't improving. His oxygen numbers were dropping, even with the 100% oxygen forced-air BiPAP. I wanted to wait for J.R. and Ann to arrive before I okayed the next step. They did take off the leads for the monitoring and other wires - he seemed more comfortable after that.

Dad smiled twice - once when I told him that Ann had landed and would be there within the hour and when the nurse called him Uncle John.

Ann and her husband Tim arrived along with J.R. and his wife Anna, and our cousin Jim Spitznogle. Everyone got time with Dad and with each other. 

I asked Lacy to come in and she did a wonderful job of explaining Dad's treatment so far, showed his chest x-rays, and the prognosis going forward.  

I asked if we could take Dad home for the next step and she thought that Dad wouldn't survive the ride.

With my siblings okay, I asked that they start "comfort care" for Dad at 2:00 P.M. They replaced the noisy BiPAP with a nasal cannula and gave him a combination of morphine and Ativan to make sure that he didn't feel any pain or the anxiety of air hunger.

Cousin Jim led us in the rosary and we all said our favorite prayers and held his hand and rubbed his feet and worked on sending him off in a cloud of love and prayers.

As one of Dad's friends said, his heart was so big that it didn't want to stop.

He died at 7:11 P.M.

I felt so lucky to have been there until the end.

I worked on contacting cousins and Dad's friends and my friends while we were still in the room - it was comforting to see how peaceful he looked.

Beth and I waited for the funeral home to come - I was delighted to see the burgundy velvet cover.

I made some teary phone calls in the hospital parting lot.

On the way home I stopped at my best-friend-since-I-was five house. I needed a sandwich, beer, and someone who knew Dad almost as long as I had.

I finally made it home around midnight - a long hot shower was in order.

Two Noras: June 25, 1914 and June 25, 2021

Nora Bauer: Thursday, June 25, 1914

Had a birthday cake today. Gertrude made it and it was just fine. Gertrude and I went to singing class tonight and was talking to the sisters. 

Nora Spitznogle: Friday, June 25, 2021

Went to work at Second Helpings. Got a not-so-great update on Dad. PA called at noon to come to the hospital. Left work for Lebanon.

The birthday cake must have been for Grandma Nora's older brother, William's 26th birthday. Odd that there is no mention of him being there. Youngest sister Gertrude and Nora had singing class at Saint Joesph Catholic Church so I assume that they were talking to the School Sisters of Notre Dame. 

This morning's update from Dad's PA wasn't great. 

• No improvement over night, they tried to step him down from the BiPap oxygen, but his numbers dropped too low. 
• The BiPap is not a long-term option, if he doesn't improve, the doctor will talk to us about next steps. 
• The good news: his urine output is good, which means that those organs are working as they should. 
• They are continuing with the treatment and holding steady for today. 
• Everyone is letting him know that we love him and that we and his nieces and nephews are praying for him. 

When I spoke to the PA at 9:00,  she mentioned his continued agitation and restlessness and I offered that we could come and sit with him if we could - COVID-19 restrictions didn't allow for visitors. 

I called George to ask who Dad's Medical Power of Attorney was. Dad had shared his Living Will with everyone and it was on file at the hospital. Dad had also confirmed all of the details with the doc in the ER. Over the years when we asked Dad who is Medical Power of Attorney was he would reply, they'll find out when it's time. We all tried to explain that it's not how it works. 

Anyway, it turns out it's me. 

George emailed me the paperwork and I shared with my siblings. 

The PA called at noon to say that we could come and sit with him in hopes that it would help his agitation. I reached out to my siblings and jumped in the car. 

I'm so grateful to have a job where the CEO give you a hug and tells you not to worry about anything. 

When I got to the hospital they suited me up with an N-95 mask, a medical mask over that, a gown, and gloves. Beth and Jenny were already there. 

Poor papa was so agitated - they had him bundled like a burrito He was picking at his IV and the BiPAP and the leads taped to his chest and everything. I untucked his toes and loosened his blankets and that seemed to help a bit. 

It was clear the he wasn't doing very well. 

On the way to the hospital I was thinking that we were going to help Dad feel less anxious and to give that staff a break...I now saw that we were called to let us spend time with him. 

The PA came to talk to us, and we decided to stay the course of treatment for the next 12 hours. I gave her the Medical Power of Attorney directive. 

The day was sort of a blur. J.R. came, Annie called, Beth stayed. 

I left for a bit to grab something to eat and go to the Farm to check on the cat and to get Dad's mail - he LOVES getting cards - and called Annie. She was able to book a flight for her husband to arrive tomorrow around noon. 

Beth stayed until after midnight and I planned to stay over night. 

Two Noras: June 24, 1914 and June 24, 2021

Nora Bauer: Wednesday, June 24, 1914

Mamie Gertrude and I went down to Uncle John's tonight. Pete Dwyer and Agatha got married today. They had some wedding. 

Nora Spitznogle: Thursday, June 24, 2021

Back at work today, stayed late to catch up from being off yesterday. Worried about Dad, stayed in contact with hospital. 

I couldn't find a wedding announcement for Pete and Agatha, but I did stumble across this delightful account of a shower given for him. 

We're all gobsmacked with the news that Dad has COVID-19. I know that the vaccine isn't 100% effective and the doctor suggested that because he was vaccinated early some of the protection may be diminished, not to mention that there are new variants popping up. 

I have even more empathy for the people who had COVID-19 and their families in the early days and weren't able to visit. 

It was terrible to not be able to visit Dad - and he's so social that not having human interaction is hard for him. He really struggled with that during the height of  pandemic. And I was peeved that we'd come this far and I'd spent seventeen months harping on him to be careful and now he has damn COVID-19. 

Luckily the team caring for Dad are able to give us detailed updates, which I then shared with my siblings. 

Morning update: 

• They ran a test that checks blood gasses, and all came back normal. 
• They'll do a chest x-ray to see if the pneumonia has progressed. 
• They've changed him back to the face mask for oxygen, he kept pulling off the cannula - which J.R. and I saw yesterday. 
• They have someone in the room with him to try to keep him calm, he's trying to pull off his monitors and such. 
• She asked about alcohol use - when Dad was asked yesterday he said that he only had two beers a couple of times a week. I updated that number.
• Witham asked for a designated person and for us to try to keep the calls to a couple of times a day (she said that of course we could call more if necessary) and they will also call with any changes. They have my number, if that's okay with everyone, I promise to keep the updates coming and to pass along any concerns. 
• Has Dad ever mentioned who his Medical Power of Attorney is? Dad couldn't remember yesterday. If no one knows, I'll call George*. 

Afternoon update: 

• Just spoke to Lacy, Dr. Wilson's Physicians Assistant. 
• He's doing much better this afternoon than he was this morning and resting more comfortably. 
• Dr. Shapiro (lung doc) has also been in to see him also and agreed with the treatment - a steroid that has been shown effective in COVID patients, along with a medication used to treat Ebola, that is also used to treat COVID, and an mild anti-anxiety medication. Dr. Shapiro added an anti-inflammatory med. 
• He's still on the BiPap - looks sort of like a CPap - for oxygen. His oxygen numbers are in the 90s right now. 
• They're going to find someone to sit with him overnight to help with his anxiety. 
• She told me that this is the fourth patient she knows of that's been vaccinated and has COVID, hopefully it's a milder case because of the vaccine. 
• Lacy is on duty all weekend and promised to keep us informed - she called me with the update. 

The afternoon update seems more promising than the morning one, but it is so hard not to be there. When Dad had his heart surgery last year he was anxious and trying to pull things off - my heart aches for him and I'm praying for patience for the staff. 

* George Stephenson, Dad's nephew and our cousin, son of his sister, Lucille, is Dad's attorney. 

Two Noras: June 23, 1914 and June 23, 2021

Nora Bauer: Tuesday, June 23, 1914

Had another slower day but did not last long. Anna went to the club tonight. Uncle John and Little John came over. 

Nora Spitznogle: Wednesday, June 23, 2021

Beth called around 5:30 A.M. to tell me that Dad had fallen and she was calling an ambulance. Today's Molly's birthday. 

It sounds like work got busy for Grandma Nora. I know that Nora and Mamie were in the same club, I need to research what club Anna was in. 

Uncle John was her dad's brother, John Jacob Bauer (1857-1938). Little John, John Hayward Bauer (1896-1983) would have been 18 at the time. I know that I've mentioned it before, but I was sad that I never met John Hayward. 

Today is my niece Molly's 21st birthday. She working at Culver Academy this summer, so we don't get to celebrate with her...yet!  

My sister Beth was a hero today, she called the emergency folks and got Dad to Witham Hospital in Lebanon. Beth and Jenny (family friend and Dad helper/companion) where there when I arrived. 

The ER staff reported that he was having trouble breathing, so they were pushing oxygen through a BiPap mask and the initial thought was that he had pneumonia. His pulse-oxygen was in the 80s (99-100 is ideal) when he arrived. 

I was able to join him in the ER after an hour or so. He was alert and talking as well as he could through the mask - he looked like a spaceman. The lung x-ray showed fluid in his lungs so they gave him IV Lasix to try to get rid of the fluid. 

We had lots of waiting time, so I read to him from Grandma Nora's journal, starting with today's entry. I'm convinced that he was named after his Uncle John, but he reminded me that his sister Bernadine got to name him - she was seven years old - and named him for John the Baptist. I'm kicking myself that I didn't ask him about "Little John." 

Dad enjoyed his mom's accounting of her cash and that she purchased ice cream at least once a week. Dad's always got Klondike Bars in his freezer - his nightly snack. 

The Hospitalist - physician who is dedicated to treating hospital patients - was very thorough. Since Dad's doctors were in the Witham system he'd read through his charts and had spoken to two of doctors. He asked Dad about his medical history and daily habits. He asked three different ways if Dad had been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. I proudly told the doc that I'd managed to snag a first-day it was available appointment for Dad on January 12.  

The team was able to get his oxygen levels up to the mid to high 90s, and we were just waiting for a room to open upstairs. 

He was smiling and happy to be "moving on up." 

J.R. arrived with the new electric razor that Dad asked for and we met him in his room and were able to stay until the visiting hours ended about 20 minutes later. 

He was settled in and chatting with the nurse. 

I headed back home and took a 20 minute power nap before Anne-Marie's birthday party. Anne-Marie is celebrating her 40th birthday with a small dinner party at The Jazz Kitchen.  I met Marty and Anne-Marie eons ago when I worked a CATH coffeehouse around the corner from their house. I'm lucky to be included in their circle friends. The party was lovely and just what I needed after the long day. 

...and then everything changed. Dad has COVID-19. He's not allowed any visitors. 

June 22, 1914 and June 22, 2021

Nora Bauer: Monday, June 22, 1914

Was still very warm. Had a few nice showers today. Did fancy work tonight. 

Nora Spitznogle: Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Worked downtown today. Went to the farm after - Dad had a bed moved downstairs and he's very happy with it. 

It sounds like Grandma Nora had a calm Monday. Good for her! 

I called Boone County Senior Services to discuss what they had to offer and made an appointment for Monday at the Farm for an assessment. It sounds promising. 

Dad called me at work to tell me that he wanted a bed moved downstairs - something that had been talked about off and on ever since he had his heart surgery a year ago. He wanted everyone to be there. He told me who he had lined up and he had plenty of help and I pointed out that gravity was on his side. 

I worked late and I didn't get to the Farm until after 8:00 P.M. Dad was already tucked in his bed and looking happy as could be. He had a single-sized bed brought down, one that he had made the headboard for. Everything looked surprisingly nice - Beth and Jenny (a family friend that has become close to Dad) and Jenny's husband did a wonderful job. 

Here he is feigning sleep. 

I love our family room - the rough sawn cedar walls and the fireplace are so cozy. The walnut mantel and window bench are made from the tree that needed to be cut down to make room for the house. Our family moved in almost 52 years ago. 

I stayed until after he fell asleep. I was planning on spending the night, but Beth volunteered to stay. I left my dress and such there so I can spend tomorrow night. I got home around 1:00. 

Two Noras: June 21, 1914 and June 21, 2021

Nora Bauer: Sunday, June 21, 1914

Was very warm today. Went to 10 o'clock Mass. Mamie and I went out to Minneman's this afternoon and stayed for supper. Helen had been home but went back at 4:50. 

Nora Spitznogle, Monday, June 21, 2021

It's a little cooler here today, thank goodness. Worked downtown at Second Helpings today, the usual mix of meetings and paperwork. I puttered around the house this evening. Nothing too exciting, really. 

I love all of the stuff that you can dig up from newspapers from that era. People say that we share too much on social media, but in 1914 people shared a lot on print - who was on vacation, addresses, children's names, who went to what dance with whom. 

Grandma Nora has mentioned the Minneman's before. I discovered that they had four girls - Mabel, Helen, Edith, and Gertrude. I'm guessing that some of them lined up with the four Bauer girls (Anna, Mamie, Nora, Gertrude). 

I was a little flummoxed by Nora's comment that Helen had been home, but went back, and she was so precise about the time. Helen was in summer school at Valparaiso (Indiana) so she much have been heading back to school. 

I wish I had something exciting to report about my day, at least is cooled down a bit - 70s vs. 90s!    

Two Noras: June 20, 1914 and June 20,2021

 Nora Bauer: Saturday, June 20, 1914

Gertrude, Anna and I went uptown this evening. Went to the Ark [Theater]. Saw another Srimins? girl. She knew us too. 

Nora Spitznogle: Sunday, June 20, 2021

Mass this morning. Meet Beth at the Farm this afternoon to celebrate Father's Day with Dad. He was tired. 

How fun that Grandma Nora went uptown with her older and younger sister. I wonder what Mamie was doing? 

Here is what the sisters saw at the theater. I'm at a loss for who they ran into - none of the letter combinations I've come up with spell anything sensible. Any thoughts? 

I went to 10:30 Mass at Saint Joan of Arc, and headed to the Farm after. My sister Beth meet me in the garage to let me know that Dad was having trouble getting out of bed. She had a bed rail thingie that he could use to help sit up and he used the walker from there. 

Beth started laundry and I helped him put fresh sheets on the bed. He was being very bossy about how to make the bed. I refrained from pointing out that I've changed thousands of bed sheets in my day, between chores as a kid, working in nursing homes and hospitals through high school and college, and being an adult. Later it occurred to me that he may have just been reminding himself how to do it. 

Another chore he wanted me to do was clip his toenails - I asked if we could please wait until after dinner. Please. 

Beth had picked up Arni's Pizza - speaking of jobs that I had in college. 

After lunch Dad, Beth, and I talked about the possibility of getting some home healthcare-type person to check on him daily and make sure that he was taking his medications and was dressed and such. I was glad that Dad was agreeable. 

We looked through photo albums - Dad was more interested in looking at more recent ones, but I did get him to identify some older photographs. We ran across this perfect for Father's Day snapshot. 

Grandpa Paul (Nora's husband), Dad, and my brother J.R. - three generations of Spitznogle men. I'm guessing this photo was taken in 1968 since Paul died on February 20, 1969 - on J.R.'s fifth birthday. 

Dad was excited that Annie called him from Phoenix. He loved that J.R. and Beth had taken him for lunch on Friday and that he got to talk to all three girls on Father's Day. 

Nora, Dad, Beth - Father's Day 2021

When I was leaving, Dad had me check on the cat and turn out the lights in his woodshop and in the pole barn. He was on the sidewalk waving good bye and telling me that he loved me- it was a lovely day. 

Two Noras: June 19, 1914 and June 19, 2021

Nora Bauer: Friday, June 19, 1914

Was to 6 o'clock Mass this morning also to holy hours this evening. Walked home with Mrs. Medland. 

Nora Spitznogle: Saturday, June 19, 2021

Worked at Marigold this afternoon and the Red Key Tavern this evening. Managed a small nap in between. 

I'm guessing that the Medland's were neighbors. I found mention of Mr. Medland, who was Cass County Auditor in 1914. 

This is the first mention of Grandma Nora being able to walk to Saint Joseph Church. I can't wait until I can spend some time retracing her steps. 

My day was filled with work - it's always fun to work at Marigold among the pretties. I think I managed to not purchase anything...a fashionable downfall of spending five hours looking at the clothes. 

The Red Key was the usual slightly frantic mix of cooking and waitressing (I usually do both) and taking out the trash. 

Two Noras: June 18, 1914 and June 18, 2021

Nora Bauer: Thursday, June 18, 1914

The circus was in town today. Saw the parade this morning. Was to singing class tonight. Just heard that some burglars got into [?'s] house. 

Nora Spitznogle, Friday, June 18, 2021

I worked downtown at Second Helpings today - the usual mix of paperwork and meetings. I had a perfectly relaxing evening, doing nothing by myself. 

Oh my goodness, Grandma Nora packed a lot into 25 words.

We'll start with the circus! At the time the Hagenback-Wallace Circus was the second largest in the country - and they were based in nearby Peru, Indiana - only about 15 miles. I wonder if this was one of the first stops on the the tour that year? 

I love that they were the "gayest, gladdest, grandest galaxy in all the wide world."  

I sure love a parade, I hope that Grandma Nora enjoyed it too. 

I thought I'd find a juicy story in the papers about the burglary. Nothing! I tried to figure out the name and tried several spellings with no luck. I also searched burglar, burglary, robbery, and break in with no luck. 

I had a lovely evening of doing absolutely nothing and it was grand. 

Annie is doing better and will hopefully be home soon. 

Two Noras: June 17, 1914 and June 17, 2021

Nora Bauer: Wednesday, June 17, 1914

Did fancy work almost all day today. Went down town this afternoon and saw Ada Porter. Otto Wagner was married. 

Nora Spitznogle: Thursday, June 17, 2021

Worked downtown this morning and remotely this afternoon. Lunch with Aaron at Red Key before he left for the airport. 

A newspaper search for Ada Porter and Grandma Nora didn't turn up anything. 

Otto Wagner was co-owner of a shoe store - I'm guessing that Nora shopped there. 

When most people are asked if they will be one the morning news to promote a pasta drive for Second Helpings they might think about a haircut or makeup. 

Me: Where can I find a pasta costume? 

I worked downtown this morning and from home this afternoon. Aaron and I walked to the Red Key for lunch before he needed to leave for the airport. I always enjoy his visits and am a little melancholy when he leaves.... 

Two Noras: June 16, 1914 and June 16, 2021

 Nora Bauer: Tuesday, June 16, 1914

Was real cool today. Did some fancy work at the office and also at home this evening. 

Nora Spitznogle: Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Off of work today. Rode with Aaron to Glasgow, KY to visit his aunt, uncle, and cousin. 

I wish I knew more about Grandma Nora's work situation. In my mind, when she's not doing bookkeeping she's there as a receptionist, which gives her time for her fancy work. 

I spied this truck on the way there - it made me smile! I wonder if we're related? 

It was such a lovely day. You remember Aaron's dear Grandma Nancy - we visited two of her children, Nancy Jane and Frank Kelley, and Aaron's cousin, Heather. 

I have gotten to know Nancy Jane and Heather from visits over the years and I met Frank at the funeral. It was nice to hear Grandma Nancy stories and tour their neighborhood. 

Heather, Aaron, Nancy Jane, Frank Kelley

A fun story...after Grandma Nancy died, Aaron asked if I'd like anything besides the painting he'd given me earlier. I choose these Blatz beer bottle statues and this most excellent stand with Tom Selleck painted on one side, and who I thought was Robert Goulet....

As it turns out, it was Frank Kelley on the other side. They were reunited today. 

The ride home was uneventful and included a roadside gas station fried chicken dinner that was surprisingly delicious.  

 

Two Noras: June 15, 1914 and June 15, 2021

 Nora Bauer: Monday, June 15, 1914

Mamie and I went over to St. Bridget's to see the entertainment. I enjoyed it very much. Everything was real good & comical too. 

Nora Spitznogle: Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Work day, nothing exciting. Aaron and I went to dinner at Some Guys Pizza and for drinks at the Red Key Tavern after. 

I searched for mention of the program at Saint Bridget Catholic Church in the papers - no luck. There were three Catholic Churches in Logansport at the time. Saint Joseph, where Grandma Nora and her family attended - and her grandfather made the bricks to build the church, Saint Vincent, where my mother's family belonged, and Saint Bridget. Here is a little history of Saint Bridget Catholic Church. 

I worked downtown (in our building) today. Aaron and I had a nice dinner at Some Guys Pizza, where I used to work with Jeff Ayers and led to me meeting Aaron. Irish whiskey at the Red Key Tavern followed. I'm glad we walked there. 

Two Noras: June 14, 1914 and June 14, 2021

Nora Bauer: Sunday, June 14, 1914

Was very nice today. Got dinner. Was out walking this afternoon and went driving with Paul. Stopped at Spencer Park awhile. 

Nora Spitznogle: Monday, June 14, 2021

Worked downtown this morning and from home this afternoon. Aaron is here for the Flower Man Jam/Jeff Ayers celebration. 

Spencer Park is still going strong - it's fun to think of Grandma Nora and Grandpa courting there. The park has been home to a Dentzel Carousel since 1919. You can read the history by clicking here. I have a vague memory that my cousin David Shepler (son of Joan) built the building that the renovated carousel is housed in. 

Annie is still in the hospital, but doing well - she passed all of the neurological exams with flying colors, thank God!  

Aaron arrived from Texas, ate lunch, and fell asleep on my sofa. I had to fuzz out my background for my video meetings, so it didn't look like there was a dead body on my sofa. 

I woke him up in time to go to the combined Flower Man Jam/celebration of Jeff Ayers birthday. 

Here's a little history on the Flower Man Jam. And some on Jeff Ayers. 

It was a wonderful evening of music and catching up with friends. This year, there was a little more conversation than music. 

Jeff's daughter and family were there - songs were sung in his honor and his infectious spirit was permeating the party. 

Garry Boles

It was great to hear Aaron play - even though he looks a little pained in this photo. He's a terrific guitar player. 

It was a beautiful evening and I can't describe how wonderful it is to be with friends and hear live music - the pandemic. Oh how I've missed both of those things! 

Two Noras: June 13, 1914 and June 13, 2021

Nora Bauer: Saturday, June 13, 1914

Went to Mass this morning. Was up town this afternoon saw Mary Spitz. Was up town again this evening. Was raining a little. 

Nora Spitznogle: Sunday, June 13, 2021

Went to Mass this morning. Grocery shopping, mowing, laundry, air-conditioner hauling and housecleaning this afternoon. Wynonna Judd this evening. Nice hot weather. 

Mary Spitz[nogle] is Paul's grandmother. I've mentioned it before, but I love the idea of going uptown on a Saturday night. It must have been so much fun to see everyone out and about. 

My sister, Ann, is still and Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, they've ruled out a stroke, but trying to figure out why her poor brain swelled....so scary! 

I went to Mass this morning and did house and yard work - the temperature is in the 90s  it was high time that I put the air-conditioners in the window. 

I went to see Wynonna Judd at a small venue this evening. It's great to be able to see live music again! 

Two Noras: June 12, 1914 and June 12, 2021

Friday, June 12, 1914

They had Sunday School rally today and had a nice parade. Went over to Maibens tonight then ? a Mass. 

Saturday, June 12, 2021

Whirlwind of a day! Worked at Second Helpings, took Dad to three graduation parties, then worked at the Red Key. 

It looks like the Sunday School Rally Day was a success....gilded cages, duck suits, and all. 

Dad and I had a practically had a parade of our own. I worked at Second Helpings (Marion County) in the morning, pick dad up at the Farm (Boone County), we went to the first graduation party in Noblesville (Hamilton County) to celebrate the graduation of Monica Spitznogle - Nora's great-great granddaughter. Monica graduated with my nephew, John, from Guerin High School.  It was great to see cousins and J.R. and Anna and John. I didn't manage to take one photograph.

The next party was near Kokomo (Howard County) to celebrate Micah Gremelspacher, my maternal cousin Christopher's son, who also graduated from Guerin. More cousins and once again, no photos. 

The third party was for Kate Gremelspacher, my maternal cousin, Matt's daughter. The party was held at the Gremelspacher Home Farm, south of Logansport (Cass County). I managed to take exactly one photograph there - Dad and Kate. 

Just as I was leaving - I still had to work at the Red Key - I got word that my brother-in-law Tim had taken my youngest sister, Ann, to the emergency room at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, AZ with troubling stroke-like symptoms. I broke the news to Mom and Dad and we all headed back towards home. 

I dropped Dad back off at the Farm and headed to work at the Red Key. Tim did a wonderful job of keeping us informed. They did immediate treatment with the blood thinning drugs if it was a stroke and Annie seemed to respond, although it's not clear what was causing her symptoms. 

What a worrisome evening!