Beloved husband calling contestant remembered at Iowa State Fair
Pioneer Hall was packed Friday morning for the Iowa State Fair's beloved Husband Calling Contest, but this year, the event carried a somber note. For the first time, the contest was held without one of its most iconic participants, Bonnie Swalwell Eilert, who died in March at the age of 96.
Bonnie was a long-time contestant known for her spirited calls to her late husband, Roy. Her performances became a hallmark of the contest, earning her a devoted following.
"Bonnie was an institution not only for the husband calling contest but for the fair in general," said Virginia Stone, a fellow husband caller.
Her fame extended beyond the contest, with fans often stopping to take selfies with her.
"I watched so many videos of her, and she's just a wonderful presence," said Wendy Bryce, winner of this year's contest. "It definitely feels like one of our competitors is missing."
While Bonnie’s performances in Pioneer Hall made her a fan favorite, her true passion lay elsewhere on the fairgrounds. Just down the hill at the First Church, Bonnie was a dedicated volunteer for the twice-daily hymn sing. She and Roy greeted fairgoers at the church, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The couple even renewed their wedding vows there on their 60th anniversary.
"People come to the hymn sing every year and see her, and they're just like long-lost friends," said Don Hiscox, the church's event coordinator.
This year, the church honored Bonnie’s memory by reserving her favorite front-row pew, now bearing her name. Plaques on the back wall commemorate her years of service to the church community.
As the hymn sing regulars mourn her loss, they find comfort in the thought that Bonnie and Roy are together again.
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