Stan Walk remembered as principled leader who worked to improve Mitchell County

OSAGE — Stanley “Stan” Raymond Walk, a longtime Mitchell County supervisor, veteran and businessman known for his firm convictions and commitment to rural Iowa, died Dec. 10, 2025. He was 78.

Those who served alongside Walk say he was a public servant who did not shy away from difficult conversations, often taking positions he believed would benefit Mitchell County in the long term, even when those views were not widely shared.

“He cared deeply about things that could improve the county,” said Betty McCarthy, a former Mitchell County supervisor who served with Walk on the Board of Supervisors. “Economic development and housing were high on his list of priorities.”

Walk served during a period when rural counties were challenged to adapt economic tools largely designed for urban growth. McCarthy said Walk played a key role in helping Mitchell County understand and responsibly use tax increment financing, commonly known as TIF.

“I personally give Stan credit for the use of TIF by the county,” McCarthy said. “Too many people don’t understand TIF, so they are opposed to it. He stood strong in his convictions.”

McCarthy recalled Walk’s involvement in discussions on urban renewal and TIF with then–Economic Development Director Brenda Dryer and County Attorney Mark Walk, which led him to travel to Des Moines to better understand how rural counties could benefit from the tool.

“Although credit may never be given to him for a number of positive things accomplished, he loved the county and was always looking for ways to improve things that would make life better,” McCarthy said.

Shannon Paulus, Mitchell County Treasurer, said Walk was a strong advocate for ensuring rural counties were not overlooked by state legislation.

“Stan was passionate about being an advocate for Mitchell County,” Paulus said. “Many times legislation favors the more urban counties.”

Paulus said Walk approached fiscal responsibility by studying how laws designed for cities could be adapted to rural needs, including wind energy development.

“He thought outside the box when looking at problems or new legislation to figure out how Mitchell County may benefit from it,” she said.

Despite his firm positions, colleagues said Walk valued collaboration and respect.

“When serving on the Board of Supervisors with Stan he always said we may disagree on one day but we can get over that and work together the next to do what is right for Mitchell County,” Paulus said.

Steve Cooper, longtime mayor of Osage, said Walk served during the same period he was involved in city government.

“I admire anyone that is willing to serve as an elected official,” Cooper said. “Stan was one of those willing to serve.”

Cooper said he attended many Board of Supervisors meetings during Walk’s tenure but had limited personal interaction with him, noting that other supervisors often served as his primary contacts with the board.

“He helped govern Mitchell County during his tenure and I personally think that Mitchell County is a great place to live,” Cooper said. “My condolences to his friends and family.”

Outside of government, Walk was remembered by residents as an entrepreneur, veteran, volunteer, school bus driver and community member who remained connected to daily life across the county.

“Stan worked very hard on the things he felt passionate about,” one resident wrote. Others recalled his willingness to share his opinions, his time volunteering at the recycling center, his years owning Sportsman’s Lounge, and his role in mentoring and helping others.

Several community members credited Walk with infrastructure improvements during his time on the Board of Supervisors, including concrete road projects near St. Ansgar and Grafton.

Stanley Raymond Walk was born Oct. 15, 1947, to Raymond F. Walk and Marcella A. (Trettin) Walk. He is survived by his sister, Suzanne R. Walk.

Per his wishes, a graveside service was held last Friday, at Riverview Lutheran Cemetery, south of St. Ansgar.

As Paulus noted, Walk’s legacy may not always be measured in recognition.

“He had a passion for making Mitchell County better for everyone,” she said.

This article includes reflections from Betty McCarthy, former Mitchell County supervisor; Shannon Paulus, Mitchell County treasurer; Steve Cooper, longtime mayor of Osage; and community comments shared through Hoff Celebrations.