
Camp Courageous is deeply saddened by the passing of LeeRoy Mootz, 84, of Monticello, IA. LeeRoy, and his late wife, Jan (Deppe) Mootz, were dear neighbors and wonderful supporters of Camp Courageous for over 40-years! An extremely hard-working couple, we loved having the opportunity to visit, particularly about their roots in the Bellevue, IA area. On February 29, 1992 LeeRoy and Jan fulfilled a shared dream by opening the Whiffle Tree Mall. Their mutual love of antiques, combined with LeeRoy’s remarkable knowledge of local history, made the business a natural fit. More than an antique shop, the Whiffle Tree Mall became a place where history was preserved, stories were shared, and lasting friendships were made. LeeRoy & Jan sold hundreds of Camp Courageous Fruitcakes out of the Whiffle Tree Mall, since doors opened. Many donors left items at Whiffle Tree for the Camp. LeeRoy decided to sell Whiffle Tree, with the last day of business being Wednesday, September 30th, 2020. After that date, Whiffle Tree closed for remodeling. LeeRoy “came with the inventory” and was there as the “hello guy” when it reopened. LeeRoy was a tremendous ambassador for the Whiffle Tree Mall, Monticello, and Camp Courageous. The decision to sell Whiffle Tree was not an easy one; however, the time had come to pass this business on to new owners. The new owners were Bobby & Heidi Krum of Amber, IA. Their passion for local tourism, small towns, and antiques led them to the purchase of Whiffle Tree. It was heartwarming how good Bobby & Heidi were to LeeRoy… LeeRoy & Jan Mootz would do anything for Camp Courageous, from continuous professional advice on antique items donated to Camp, to selling huge numbers of Camp Courageous Fruitcakes, to most of all being genuine friends who would do anything for Camp Courageous at any hour of any day. The precious memories of this couple’s dedication and love for Camp in days gone by, our priceless… They were always thinking of others…and always thinking of ways to help Camp Courageous… Camp’s sympathy goes out to LeeRoy’s children: Angela (Brian) Ward of Florida, Kristi (Joe) Goetz, Monticello and Lynn (Lisa) Mootz, Monticello; along with other family members and friends. What a beautiful legacy they leave…