Clear Lake Mirror Reporter

by Marianne Gasaway

It’s tempting to start the new year by blocking out the old one as quickly as possible.  But if we did that, we’d be shortchanging ourselves.  For all it’s faults, COVID-19 seemed to unite, inspire and challenge our community in a multitude of positive ways.

Loren M. Toomsen, 78, of Clear Lake, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020, at the Lake Mills Care Center, in Lake Mills, Iowa after an aggressive battle with cancer, first diagnosed this year in late August. 

Cory James Sparks, 46, of Clear Lake, died Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center, in Mason City.

Per Cory’s wishes, his body has been cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Kristine Lee (Ludeman) Gatewood died on Dec. 12, 2020, at Texas Presbyterian Hospital, in Dallas,Texas. 

Kris was born Jan. 10,1950, to James and Carole Ludeman and grew up on a farm south of Manly, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed in the First Congregational Church, in Mason City, Iowa.