Happy Ending In Search For Missing Oskaloosa Man

Over 50 trained emergency personnel converged on the Quercus Wilderness Area North of Eddyville to search for missing 85 year-old Albert Vanderbeek of Oskaloosa.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – A warm and muggy spring day welcomed search parties as they converged on the Quercus Wilderness Area North of Eddyville to search for missing 85 year-old Albert Vanderbeek.

Vanderbeek had been missing since 8:00 am Tuesday May 20th, before his discovery by Roy Winkleman who was searching a fence-line on the edge of the wilderness area. Winkleman is familiar with the area since he often hunts mushrooms in and near the location.

Mr. Vanderbeek left his residence early Tuesday morning to go mushroom hunting.

Vanderbeek appeared to have been there for awhile, but Mahaska County Sheriff Paul DeGeest said Vanderbeek “appeared to be in good shape” and was in good spirits.

Vanderbeek was transported by ambulance to Mahaska Health Partnership.

Search dogs from Jasper County were also on the trail of Vanderbeek. The dogs had been tracking him along a ridge-line when the call came in that Vanderbeek was safe.

“I’m really happy with the way this turned out,” said DeGeest. “I’m just glad he’s OK.”

Sheriff DeGeest wanted to thank everyone for turning out to help with the search. “It was a great turnout.”

Mahaska County Emergency Manager Jamey Robinson said, “Thanks to all the departments that responded when needed. It just goes to show that no matter what label is on the side of trucks, whether it be New Sharon, Oskaloosa, CERT, or Sheriffs Office, that when emergencies happen we all want the greater good for the county. Tonight we came together from Barnes City to Eddyville and everywhere in between for one purpose, and the citizens of this county should know that we are here and ready to do what is needed, when needed, without hesitation.”