Beth Rumsey, Staff Writer

What started as a cough resulted in the discovery of lung cancer for John Vanosdol, Ripley County Highway Garage employee for 27 years. After learning that Vanosdol faces a total lung removal due to the cancer, friends and fellow employees organized a benefit to be held on Saturday, March 21 at the Friendship Fire Hall in Friendship.

“He takes pride in his job,” said longtime friend Wayne Peace. According to Peace, Vanosdol drives the road grader, helping to keep the county roads repaired and free of snow in the winter.
“He loves to go fishing, hiking, and bike riding,” said Peace. Vanosdol also served his country in Vietnam, receiving the Purple Heart.

Surgery for the lung removal is scheduled sometime this week, postponed due to complications such as low protein levels and blood clots in the other lung. According to Peace, Vanosdol is anxious to return to work. “He told me that he will be back to work soon after his surgery,” said Peace.
The benefit begins at noon and will continue until 11:00 p.m. and will feature a silent auction and dancing to the Centerline Band. The meal will feature pork sandwiches, donated by county garage supervisor Junior Heaton, as well as a variety of homemade desserts.

A mini chopper, donated by Chuck Folz, will be given away. Donations for the silent auction will be accepted. For more information on the benefit, or to make a donation, contact Chuck Folz at 812-528-8225; Steve Schonegg, 812-654-3281; or Pat Thomas at 812-667-5598.