As the Crossland family grows (Bennie, Virginia Anne, Patty, Mike, Ivan Jr., and Curtis were all born before 1960), Ivan serves Treece, KS as Fire Chief of the volunteer fire department and also as mayor. … [Read more...] about 1955
1954
Ivan’s will and determination shines through as he studies to earn both his GED and then goes on to earn his Associate’s Degree from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College. … [Read more...] about 1954
1953
Ivan and Virginia Ferrell marry in California on Jan. 11, 1953. A unique love story. An unforgettable moment. … [Read more...] about 1953
1951
Sent to Japan for further training, Ivan soon finds himself on the front lines of the Korean War. … [Read more...] about 1951
1950
Ivan is drafted into the Army. After basic training, he’s shipped off to Camp Cooke, where he falls in love with a young woman named Virginia Ferrell. … [Read more...] about 1950
1940
Our founder, Ivan “Red Iron” Crossland grows up in a family with a lot of love but little money. At 13, Ivan leaves school to help his family by working in the mines. … [Read more...] about 1940