Donald Lawrence "Don" Halverson 1951-1968

HALVERSON, SWARTZ

Posted By: Merllene Andre Bendixen (email)
Date: 11/2/2011 at 21:11:43

Local Youth Dies in Crash
(First paragraph too faint to read)

According to authorities Halverson was riding in a small car owned and driven by Steven M. Birney, 20, also of Estherville. The accident occurred about one mile east of the city limits, when a wheel or wheels of the vehicle dropped onto the north shoulder of Highway 9 as the vehicle proceeded west. The accident happened about 11:15 p.m.

Authorities reported that when Birney turned the car back onto the road, he apparently lost control and it swerved into the south road ditch. The car continued for 10 to 12 feet before colliding with a telephone pole. It came to rest on its right side.

Emmet County Deputy Sheriff Bob Knox, who investigated the accident along with Iowa Highway Patrolman Keith Day, said it’s believed Halverson was thrown out through the vehicle’s wood and fabric top. He was found beside the car.

Birney was treated for minor head injuries at Holy Family Hospital and released.

Authorities at the scene said Halverson suffered severe head injuries.

An investigation into the accident is continuing.

Donald Lawrence Halverson was born Jan. 11, 1951, at Holy Family Hospital in Estherville to Mr. and Mrs. Palmer Halverson,

Donald had attended Estherville schools and was a member of the class that will graduate in 1969. He had participated in music and sports in school and worked part time at the Fareway Store in Estherville.

Donald was a confirmed member of the United Methodist Church in Estherville and was active in MYF and the Chancel Choir of the Church.

Survivors, besides his parents, include one sister, Jeanine; one brother, John, both at home; maternal grandmother, Mrs. L. E. Swartz, Estherville; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Family services will be at 1:30 Monday afternoon in the Friendship Room of the United Methodist Church. Public services will follow at 2 p.m. at the church, with the Rev. Richard Pearson officiating. Burial will be in East Side Cemetery. Friends may call at the Reese-Henry Funeral Home in Estherville after 10 a.m. Sunday until noon Monday. (Estherville Daily News, Estherville, IA, November 9, 1968)