Mary Louise Robinson

Mary Louise, daughter of Benjamin C. and Ruth A. (Leighton) Moulton, was born June 23, 1913 at Stuart, IA. She graduated from Stuart High School and spent one year at Grinnell College. During the World War II, she served in the Women's Army Corp, attained the rank of Private First Class and, while stationed in Rapid City, SD, edited the camp newspaper. Her family spanned 114 years in the newspaper business. Her grandfather William P. Moulton started the Stuart Herald in 1876 and then her father Ben Moulton assumed ownership with Mary Louise following in their footsteps. On October 26, 1946, Mary Louise was united in marriage with Kenneth Albert Robinson. They made their home in Bayard and were very active in the community. Mary Louise was a reporter, publisher and columnist of the Bayard News and Bagley Gazette. She was a member of the Iowa Newspaper Association and was active in the Democratic Party. She enjoyed her membership in the Bayard Women's Club, Eastern Star and Chapter BQ of PEO. After becoming a member of Bryan-Mercer American Legion Post in Bayard, she was elected commander and was recognized as the first woman commander of an American Legion Post in Iowa and possibly the nation. Mary Louise served on the Bayard Public Library Board of Trustees for 17 years, holding the office of president for several years. She was honored by being named the Iowa Library Trustee of the Year. In April of 1990, Mary Louise received the Master Editor Publisher Award, the highest award given by the Iowa Newspaper Association. She and Ken retired May 1, 1999. They moved to Bayard Nursing and Rehab Center on April 1, 2004 and Ken died later that month on April 30, 2004. In 2007 Mary Louise moved to Panora Nursing and Rehab Center in Panora where she died on Wednesday, May 12, 2010, at the age of 96 years, 10 months and 19 days. Following her wishes, her remains were donated for scientific research to Des Moines University. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband. She is survived by many friends.