Essie listened attentively as Grandma recalled yet another one of her distant memories…
“Oh and did I ever tell you about the times I’d take my little granddaughter Essie down to the new show house in West Bend for the afternoon matinee?” said Grandma. “We’d catch the noon train down by the Barton Roller Mill and as we rounded the bend we’d sometimes wave to her mama as we passed by the aluminum factory.”
Essie nodded patiently; it was the third time this morning Grandma recalled the same story.
Essie no longer reminded her that she was indeed the little girl, as that would just lead to another vacant stare out the kitchen window. Essie was content Grandma still remembered her at all.
Essie thought it a bit ironic Grandma had chosen that particular story to share as Hank had was stopping to pick her up for a date that afternoon.
“There’s a great picture showing down at the West Bend, with Dana Andrews and Theresa Wright,” said Hank. “We could stop by Dewey’s for an ice cream soda and do a little window shopping before the show.”
Essie was hesitant at first not wanting to leave Grandma alone, and then remembered cousin Audrey’s offer to sit with her whenever she needed a break.
“OK, I’ll go under one condition,” said Essie. “That we leave that old truck of yours parked, dress in our Sunday best and take the train downtown.” Hank readily agreed, “Whatever makes you happy Es!”
Cousin Audrey and Hank arrived to the house at the same time. In a surprising moment of clarity, Grandma said, “You two had better hurry on now you’ll want to get there plenty early to get those good seats up in the balcony.”
Essie blushed a bit, slightly embarrassed by Grandma’s forwardness.
Hank raised his eyebrows, glanced at Essie, leaned in and whispered. “I like your grandma more each day.”
As Hank opened the theatre door the heavy aroma of hot-buttered popcorn overcame them. After a quick stop by the concession stand the couple took grandma’s advice and scurried up the stairs to claim their seats in the balcony.
During the show, Essie found it difficult to concentrate. Her mind drifted to the title, “The Best Years of our Lives.” She couldn’t shake the resemblance between leading actress Myrna Loy and grandma as the profile of the actress was so similar to Grandma’s wedding portrait that hung in the parlor.
At the shows end, the two made their way down the cavernous walkway to the river. They took a moment to pause halfway across the bridge in quiet reflection, the water rushing beneath them.
“Watcha thinkin’ about Es?” inquired Hank. “Just a little about the past” replied Essie. “Just wondering how many folks have crossed the river here on their way to and from the old depot.. and a bit about the future.”
As she gazed up the river her thoughts returned to grandma.” I wonder if they’ll ever find a cure,” she said referencing the forgetfulness. “Well we had better not miss that train, I promised grandma I’d be home before dark.”
“No problem Es, this here is the solstice, the longest day of the year,” replied Hank.
As they continued their walk toward the depot, Essie took advantage of the remaining light and looked up the tracks.
For a brief moment the railway faded and was replaced by the vision of a lone bicyclist pedaling up the Eisenbahn.
“That’s it”, she thought, she would join in the Amazing Ride for Alzheimer’s Awareness in celebration of these, “The Best Years of Our Lives.”
Brat Fry at West Bend Glass Block a success
Hank and Essie were sporting some Barton flair at Saturday’s Brat Fry at West Bend Glass Block.
The event was organized by the Historic Barton Business Association.
Local business owners use the proceeds to help fund Christmas decorations. The HBBA is also planning its 4th annual Barton Day, August 13 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Funeral Monday for Gene Otten
A Mass of Christian Burial for Gene Otten will be held today, June 20, 2016 at 5 p.m. at St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitation will be Monday at the church from 12 noon until 4:45 p.m. Interment will be private at the Old St. Mary’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers expressions of condolence may be made to St. Mary’s Church or Puppyland.
Gene was an exemplary model of how to live a good Christian life. He will continue to live on through the lives of those blessed by his good will and inspiration.
Otten died June 11 at the age of 89.
Gene owned and operated Otten’s Food Market for over 50 years, serving customers in the Barton area. He loved his work and always made sure the people of Barton were taken care of.
He will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, generosity and strong work ethic. He would always take care of anyone in need. He was respected and admired by all.
(Credits: Jeff & Debbie Slais for H&E / Pintrest for the “Best Years” Lobby Card / Mark Knoeck for the old train schedule and a hat tip to Terry Becker)
Build. Boost & Buy in Barton – – Shop these local businesses
         Wisconsin House Woodworks
         Albiero Plumbing
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Bob’s Main Street Auto & Towing
Joker’s 5 Bar & Grill, 1642 Barton Avenue
Do Your Hair Justice
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Play’n for Pennies – Resale and Consignment -Featuring adult and children’s clothing
The Sign Shop of West Bend, 1624 Schmidt Road All exterior signage including Banners, Yard Signs, Sandblasted, Illuminated and Monument.
Interior signage including, Engraved, Way finding, and  Room Identification Decals include: Corporate branding, Security, Serialized, Safety/Warning/ OEM decals, and Control Panels.
Vehicles graphics for Corporate, City, and County fleets, Recreational and Personal Vehicles, and also Window Decals identifying business name, and hours of operation.
West Bend Glass Block, 1527 N. Main Street