Cruz Trevino Schleupner, known affectionately as Cruz to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2024, in New Bern, N.C., due to heart failure. Born on May
Many remember the red roadside building that was Ed’s Country Auction House over in West Rindge. Some may even recall it as the Mary L. Ware Grange Hall. Today, the auction house and grange has been given new life as Rindge Glass Flowers.
Christmastime at Gateway Mall in the early years. PHOTO COURTESY OF EDHOLM & BLOMGREN COLLECTION
My fondest memory was waiting for Santa and Mrs. Claus to arrive at the mall via helicopter. I stood in anticipation with my husband and daughter and all the other families anxiously waiting for them to land. I was so proud when they landed and stepped out and was happy to see them as they were there in all their glory ⦠my Mom and Dad, that is. Yes, they were Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus at Gateway Mall for many years. Not many daughters can claim having a personal connection to the Guy in the Big Red Suit!