Corky was a Senior Account Executive at The ROOTS Logistics, known for his professionalism, dedication, positivity, and genuine kindness. He built a successful career in business development and sales, guided by a simple philosophy: take care of people, treat them right, and always strive to be better.

A proud veteran, Corky served as an Army medic and was known for his grounded, humble, and dependable nature. He earned a degree in Business Administration from Rockhurst University.

He had a love for basketball and spent many years as a referee for high school, AAU, and men’s leagues.

Corky valued his connections within the Shortline industry and looked forward to attending FEMA’s Spring and Fall Conventions. He enjoyed connecting with colleagues and building relationships at these events.

Those who knew Corky will remember his larger-than-life personality, his sense of humor, and the way he connected with everyone he met. He had a gift for connecting with people and a presence that could light up any room. As colleague Joe DeAngelo shared, “I’ve known Corky for 10 years, and he was like a grandpa to me—always looking out for people and making everyone feel welcome.”

Corky’s generosity and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Please join FEMA in extending our heartfelt condolences to Corky’s family and his colleagues at The ROOTS Logistics.

Martin was a respected industry leader who proudly served as President of the ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ (FEMA) from 1983-1984. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to the agricultural equipment industry helped shape the strong foundation upon which our association stands today.

Martin’s legacy within the association is further reflected through his son, Christopher Ford, who later served as President of FEWA, creating a rare and meaningful father-son leadership legacy within our industry.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Martin was deeply devoted to his family, an avid sailor, a steward of the land, and a valued member of his communities in Wisconsin and Michigan. He was known for his warmth, curiosity, and unmistakable voice—often declaring that he had “a wonderful life.”

Please join FEMA is extending our heartfelt condolences to Chris Ford and the entire Ford family. Our thoughts are with them as they remember and celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will long be remembered within our industry.

Those wishing to learn more about Martin’s life or to share condolences may view his obituary here:

Throughout the course of his life, Bill founded numerous business ventures that would shape the economic landscape of northeast Arkansas.

In 1964, Bill, along with his father Bill Hurt Sr., started Southern Marketing Affiliates, today known as SMA. Over the intervening 66 years, SMA. has grown to be one of North America’s largest distributors of after-market parts used in agriculture. Bill served as chairman of the board of SMA from 1997.

In 1966, he launched Stor-All Tool Box, which manufactured tool boxes of the type that fit on the back of pick-up trucks. His success with Stor-All spawned another area-based tool-box manufacturing company, Delta, which he eventually owned via a merger of the two companies. Bill sold Delta in 1987, yet the company still carries on today as Delta/Apex Tool Group.

In 1979, Bill and his brother Porter Hurt co-founded Sun Industries, which grew to become a leading manufacturer of tanning beds in North America. Despite initial skepticism from his peers as to the viability of such a venture, Bill saw potential in the tanning industry and, over two decades, nurtured Sun Industries into a thriving business.

Bill Hurt, Jr. had a gift for putting things in motion and then enlisting others to join him in taking those things to unforeseen heights. His restless personality and boundary-pushing nature made him a formidable presence in any situation, but he also knew when to step back and let others shine.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Emerson Memorial Chapel, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Visitation will be observed prior to the service at 9:00 a.m. Following the service, a buffet luncheon will be provided at 501 Steakhouse.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation, reflecting Bill’s love of duck hunting and respect for nature: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205

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Over the years, Jim built a long and dedicated career, working with IBM (Lexington, KY), Piper Industries (Collierville, TN), Empire Plow (Cleveland, OH), and Baird Manufacturing (Clarendon, AR), before finishing his professional journey at Lund Manufacturing (Holly Springs, MS), where he retired at the age of 80.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Collierville Funeral Home, 3863 Bailey Station Rd., Collierville, TN 38017, on Monday, October 6, 2025. Visitation will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the service to follow.

Because Jim was a passionate sports fan, the family invites friends to honor his memory by dressing in the colors of his beloved University of Tennessee or New York Yankees as we gather to celebrate his life. We take comfort in knowing that Jim is now rejoicing in the eternal presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the building fund of First Methodist Church of Collierville, P.O. Box 875, Collierville, TN 38027.

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Ed’s working life was in the wholesale distribution of farm implements and equipment. He founded Farm Equipment Distributing, Inc. in 1991 which later became Alliance Distributing, Inc.

He was elected the 2006-2007 president of the Farm Equipment Wholesalers Association, which later became Equipment Marketing & Distribution Association (EMDA).

As the owner of Alliance Distributing, Ed built a strong reputation for quality service and trusted relationships across the dealer and manufacturer networks. In 2014, Alliance Distributing was acquired by General Implement. His contributions, insights, and friendship remained appreciated long after.

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He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 54 years, Debra, and their three children: Coraier Piscitelli of Orlando, FL; Ryanne (Jackie) Riegling of Troy, MI; and Megan (Steve) Swiertz of Mequon, WI. He was preceded in death by his newborn daughter, Lisa.

Jim and Deb married on November 21, 1970. He was a devoted husband who never hesitated to take on any project, errand, or even a quick trip to Starbucks. His love for Debra was evident in everything he did, setting a high standard for what it means to be a good man.

After his military service, Jim and Deb returned to Grand Rapids, where they raised their family and where Jim earned a degree from Aquinas College. Known for his strong work ethic, Jim spent his entire career in machinery sales. He had a passion for cars, politics, reading, and taking care of his lawn.

Jim was also a talented carpenter and woodworker, often saying, “I can make it however you want.” He brought this dedication to Bloomers and Hearts, the children’s furniture business he ran with Debra for over 30 years, which they officially closed just hours before his passing.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., with a visitation starting at 1:00 p.m., at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

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He was born on June 28, 1951, in Litchfield, IL, the son of William “Bill” and Rosezella “Doll” Franzen. Tom married Karen Coatney on October 6, 1972, and they shared 52 wonderful years together.

Tom’s career in the insurance industry spanned nearly 50 years. He served as Vice President of Scheller Insurance Agency, Inc. for almost 40 years and was the President of Thomas F. Franzen & Co., an insurance and risk management consulting firm.

Tom enjoyed sharing his skillsets and insights through numerous civic and volunteer roles such as being a Board member of HSHS St. Francis Hospital (serving as chairman for four years), and former Chairman and Vice-Chairman of Litchfield, IL Economic Development Coalition.

He was a valued member of the Board of Directors for the First National Bank of Litchfield for over 20 years. A dedicated risk management consultant and advocate for the ąű¶ł´«Ă˝, he was highly respected by the Board, members, and staff.

Tom found joy in riding his motorcycle, golfing, hunting, fishing, and making cherished memories with his family. His faith was of utmost importance to him, and he loved engaging in conversations with everyone he met.

He is survived by his wife, Karen, and two daughters: Jennifer (Jeff) Franzen-Ballard of Hazel Green, AL, and Sarah Franzen of Normal, IL. He also leaves behind three grandsons: Jeffrey Franzen, Chase (Jordan) Ballard, and Matthew Ballard.

Please join the Association in offering condolences to the Franzen family. We are exploring meaningful ways to honor Tom’s memory. If you have any suggestions, please reach out to Steve at Steve@FarmEquip.org.

Memorial Arrangements: Services will be held on Saturday, November 16, at the Methodist Church of Mt. Olive, IL. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., with a memorial service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the Methodist Church of Mt. Olive or doing something kind for someone, as doing so was in his very nature.

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In 1958, he was united in marriage to Marlene Hartl.  The couple enjoyed 63 years together until her passing. After graduating from Marquette and marrying Marlene, Bob proudly served his country in the U. S. Army.  

Bob and his brothers took over the family business, Kools Brothers Inc. from his father, uncles, and aunt.  Kools Brothers, Inc. initially fabricated ornamental iron and then transitioned to a farm equipment manufacturer. Later in life, he retired as a sales representative for Darryl Sykes and Associates. 

Bob was active with the Optimist Club as well as the Appleton Elks Lodge where he achieved the rank of Exalted Ruler in 1981-82. He proudly served as president of the ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ (FEMA) from 1980-1981.

Bob was a man of sharp wit and a hopeful outlook on life.  He was a helpful soul who was quick to volunteer. To hear Bob say “one day at a time” was not uncommon.  He used this mantra to help him through forty plus years of sobriety.  

Please join the Association in offering condolences to the Kools Family.

Memorial Services: Mass will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 27, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 1617 W. Pine St., Appleton. Friends may visit the church on Friday from 9 a.m. – 10:45 am.  Interment will take place at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Appleton.  In lieu of flowers, memorial funds have been established for St. Bernard Catholic Church, the Genesis Club, and Annabelle’s Amazing Graces.

Live Stream: Bob’s service will be live streamed andd may be accessed by clicking or entering the following link before the service: 

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Rebecca Hesser “Becky” Price, 77, beloved wife, mother, Gammie, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, May 6, 2023.

Becky is survived by her husband of 55 years, Richard H. “Dick” Price, Jr.; and their three children, R. Hilary Price-Coulter (Steve), Richard H. “Trey” Price III (Renee), and Ryan H. Price, all of Wichita.

Becky and Dick were married in February of 1968, and moved to Topeka, KS where Becky “put Dick through law school.” Upon Dick’s graduation, they moved to Wichita, where Becky worked and taught at WSU Dental School until they started their family.

From wrapping gifts, setting tables, arranging flowers, or planning birthday parties, Becky’s touch made everything personal, beautiful, and special.

Enjoying the friendly competition it afforded within her family, Becky enjoyed and excelled at sporting clays and trap shooting. She was a member of the 1st Place team in the Celebrity Annual Sporting Clay Shoot for St. Jude Children’s Hospital and won 1st Place in the Farm Equipment Manufacturers (FEMA) Spring Meeting Women’s Division Trap Shoot in Kansas City in 2010.

Becky was an award- winning artist working in oil, pastel, watercolor, sculpture, and mixed media, and was a current member of Wichita Women Artists, Kansas Academy of Oil Painters, and Midwest Artists (past President).

In Becky’s own words, “Painting is my favorite way of expressing things I love about life- the beauty of God’s creations- from the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains to the sun shining on a child’s face or the incredible colors of a butterfly or a beautiful sunrise. While fly fishing, one of my other passions, I find I’m constantly thinking about painting- how to capture the clarity of the water or the extraordinary colors of a brown trout, the mist on a river in the early morning or the incredible beauty of the places where the trout live.”

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Krone Group announced the passing of long-time owner of the KRONE Group, Dr.-Ing. E.h. Bernard Krone, after a short serious illness in Spelle, Emsland, on October 14, 2022 at the age of 82.

His passing is not only mourned by his family and relatives as well as more than 7,000 employees, but also the international agricultural engineering and European commercial vehicle industry, which the passionate family entrepreneur Dr Bernard Krone decisively shaped through his many years of work. Being in close contact with customers – the personal interaction with the people in the industries – has always been particularly close to his heart.

Dr. Bernard Krone was regarded as a visionary man of action. He continuously developed the company and made ground-breaking decisions to diversify the business: In addition to entering the commercial vehicle sector, he established, among other things, self-propelled technology in agricultural engineering and specialized the Krone company in forage harvesting technology.

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