Eugene Tystahl Endowed Scholarship

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Gene Tystahl, an Alden native and longtime Iowa Falls resident, was a supporter of Ellsworth Community College and Ellsworth athletics for 28 years. He was particularly active as a member of the “E” Club, serving as its president for a one-year term. His preference, however, was to serve outside of the limelight helping with both his time and money to accomplish whatever goals were at hand. He could always be counted on as a cook at the annual sweet corn and wild game feeds. For many years, he assisted with the chains at all Ellsworth home football games.
On the annual Ellsworth parents weekend, Gene and his son, Brad, would always participate in providing boat rides on the Iowa River for students and their families.
Gene enlisted in the Navy in 1952 and served until 1956. He was a radioman aboard the USS Rolette, an attack cargo ship, and also served in a Beach Masters unit. Gene worked as a lineman for Iowa Electric for 25 years, retiring in 1991. In retirement, he enjoyed doing part-time electrical work, boating, fishing and simply having a good time with his family and many friends.
Gene and his wife, the former Jo Ann Johnson, an Alden native, were married in 1953 and have four children: Cathy Schwieger, Todd, Susan Tystahl, and Brad. Todd, Susan and Brad all attended Ellsworth Community College.
Following Gene’s untimely death in 1996, he was honored by the “E” Club at a special dinner. This scholarship in Gene’s memory was established at the dinner by his family. He is sorely missed by his family and friends.