This year’s Grand Marshals for the Kalona Days Parade are father/son duo Ed and Clair Yoder. Both are long-time respected members of the area, who have provided services to locals through their hardware business, Kalona Builders Supply Co.

The father and son duo have worked and owned the business collectively for over 50 years, supplying local residents with anything from windows and doors to lumber and decking. For an area like Washington county, with people who create and sell wood projects, their family-owned business is highly regarded.

Clair Yoder, married to his wife Lorna, has two kids who attend the Mid-Prairie School District. He has lived in Kalona just about his whole life. Around the community, Clair is a volunteer fireman, and has been for over 24 years. Clair has worked at Kalona Builders Supply since 1985 with his dad, Ed Yoder.

“My dad and his brother, they both started the business together, gosh,  so long ago,” Clair joked.

Many locals know the pair for their amiability and generosity to the community. You have probably seen Clair cooking up pancakes at the yearly Fireman’s pancake breakfast in Kalona.

“My dad and I can both agree, being the Grand Marshals is a huge honor. Of course, the two of us combined have served the community for what seems like forever, but to be acknowledged in such a way feels truly wonderful,” Clair said.

The Kalona Days Parade will take place on Saturday, June 17 at 4 p.m. in downtown Kalona. Be sure to look out for the father/son pair and cheer them on as they drive by!