This open letter is to recognize and thank the 2009 DeKalb Corn Fest board and everyone affiliated with this year’s event for the special remembrances given in honor of Chuck Siebrasse.

Earlier this year when my husband, Chuck, was critically ill, the board asked him if it was okay to rename Saturday’s corn boil portion of the event the “Chuck Siebrasse Corn Boil.” Typical of Chuck, he didn’t want any fuss made, but he said “okay” when he saw how much it meant to so many people.

Chuck lost his battle with kidney cancer on Feb. 5 and is mourned not only by his family, but by the entire community.

The Corn Boil was all about people for Chuck during the more than 25 years he co-chaired the event with his dear friend, Bryan Klatt. His service to the Corn Boil just came naturally and was an important and joyful part of his life each year. The new banner unveiled this year with
Chuck’s name and photos on it is wonderful! I’m sure Chuck was smiling down on Bryan and his entire crew of volunteers as they carried on Saturday, missing him more than he’ll ever know. This meaningful and enduring tribute is appreciated by Chuck’s family and all who love him.

On Sunday, the Corn Fest board and Tom Cleveland, DeKalb Airport manager, arranged for another special tribute to Chuck, involving a flyover by Paul van den Heuvel in his MiG 21 fighter jet, while Mark Baldin played “Taps” from the sound stage. In addition to his service to the Corn Fest and community, Chuck was a proud and decorated Army veteran who served in Vietnam as a medic. The flyover was an especially meaningful tribute to a man who is greatly missed. Thank you all.


Kathy Siebrasse, DeKalb

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