The First Ivarson Family Photo Taken After The Arrival Of Kamden.

The Primghar Community Building Was Filled With Attendees Supporting The Ivarson Family From Opening Until Serving Was Over. Organizers Estimate 800 Attended.

Knights of Columbus organizations from around northwest Iowa joined forces Sunday May 7 to host an omelet and cinnamon roll brunch at the Primghar Community Building. The benefit was to give assistance to Annie (Stoll) Ivarson and her six sons, Kiefer, 10; Kaysen 8; Koy, 6; Kale, 4; Kru, 2 and Kamden, 6 months, after the sudden loss of Husband and Father, Eric.
The Ivarson family makes its home in rural Cleghorn on the Ivarson Family Farm where Eric grew up. Eric had farmed with his dad. Annie grew up on a farm in rural Primghar. Eric’s dad, Craig with the help of hired hand, Nick continue to farm. Annie said, “There is a lot of help.”
Kindness and compassion from people in the area have provided support to the young family. Annie expressed her appreciation for the support. She commented, “I’ve heard from people I don’t know. They tell me their stories and offer prayers. People who have had tragedy tell me about it and pass on the prayers that helped them.” Annie really wanted to express her appreciation for all of the support. For her, that support has come by way of meals, cards, phone call, prayers, help in anyway – offers of time and help. There have been gifts for the boys, too.
When asked, Annie said the boys are all doing well. They are close, so they are good support for each other. She added the school is watching. They have no concerns. They are doing well.”
Thinking of the many ways she and her family have received kindness she mentions the support from the boys’ school, MMCRU (Marcus-Meriden-Cleghorn-Remsen Union). Annie also recognizes the kindness shown from many communities: Granville, Primghar, Hartley, Spencer, Cherokee. There has been a lot of generosity from them.
Annie added that she gets big support from a big family, community, church and the school. “We are leaning on our faith and family. I know God has a plan. I would not have wanted to be part of this plan, but I am trying to maintain my faith and trust that this will bring good.” One thing mentioned by Annie is how each day she sees glimpses of Eric in the boys. She said it’s not new. It’s just different.
In closing, Annie said, “There are no words. I am so fortunate to live in a small community. We really do feel the love.”
An outpouring on Sunday showed that love and support. Perhaps the Angels’ Tears (rain) that kept farmers out of the fields Sunday morning made attending the omelet breakfast in Primghar a good option. Organizers estimate 800 well-wishers attended.