John Sheda

Editor’s note: This column was written several weeks ago after the sudden passing of STC football legend Mark Fetter.

As many of you know, many of my articles are about growing up in Chelsea during the 50’s & 60’s. Chelsea was a thriving little town, (ok, maybe not actually thriving but holding its own), all of the stores up and down main street were full and open. Drug stores, taverns, feed stores, hardware stores, barber shops, restaurants and even a soft-serve ice cream shop. Two beautiful churches in town, band concerts in the summer, Little League ball games and also the Chelsea Redhawks High School until 1961.

Probably growing up in Chelsea, there were about 20 or 30 of us kids, ranging in age from ten to 15 or 16, who would gather during the summer to be involved in some sort of game or activity. It wasn’t always the same kids or the same number but whatever number we could gather together, we played something. Mark “Tim” Fetter was one of those kids, along with a whole bunch of other Fetters. For some reason, I don’t remember, Mark went by his middle name “Tim” for the longest time. For me, it was hard to adjust to him being called Mark.

Last week, I was saddened to hear of Mark’s promotion to the heavenly gates. It’s been several years, (maybe longer), that Mark and I talked but in Chelsea, once a friend, always a friend, right? I remember how all of Chelsea was so proud of Mark’s athletic accomplishments and of him being an Iowa Hawkeye Football star. For so many years, I would proudly tell people of my friendship with Mark and that I taught him how to play football! Ok, that’s a downright lie, but you already knew that.

My condolences to Mark’s wife, Diana, and his family as well as to Mark’s siblings, Tom, Shelly, Doug & Roberta. I’m sure “Tim” is the starting fullback on Heaven’s Angels as they battle Hell’s Demons! I’m sure we’ll win!! Rest in Peace my friend. Your friend, John, (jsheda@indytel.com 319.327.4640) Love to hear from ya.