Joe Czikalla, President
SFC (R) Joe Czikalla served 12 years in the United states Army as Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Tech including 4 deployments to Afghanistan. The recipient of 2 Purple Heart Medals, 2 Bronze Stars, a Bronze Star Medal with “V” device any many other awards, he medically retired and moved to the Rathbun Lake area in 2018. Joe started Veterans at Rathbun to bring veterans from all over to his beautiful lake community. The idea was simple, help his brothers and sisters heal through outdoors experiences and the camaraderie that is so often lost when they leave the service.
David Howe, Vice President
He grew up on as an Iowa farm kid and graduated from a small NE Iowa high school. Upon graduation, he attended college and graduated with a financial management degree. That started a 20+ year career in lending and banking .He relocated to southern Iowa in 1997 and within a couple years was heavily involved in the Rathbun Lake Association and was influential in starting Summer Splash at Rathbun Lake. That involvement lasted until 2011, when he changed careers and bought a boat storage and repair business at the lake. When he heard about the first Crappie Day event, he opened his business as the host facility, including providing most of the boats and as much fishing gear as he had. He has been heavily invested in Veterans at Rathbun Lake since its inception and looks forward to seeing it continue to expand and assist veterans have an outlet to spend time healing.
Travis Tibbits, Secretary
The lead guide for our events. Travis is Father of 4 children. Married to wife Dawn. Born and raised in Iowa. Owner of Dryseal Roofing and School board member at Martensdale/St Marys school district. Travis enjoys time with family, hunting, fishing boating and outdoor activities. I've owned property at Rathbun Lake for 12 years and enjoy the lake vibe. Both of my grandfather's, my son, and my wife's brother all served in the military. I have a deep respect for our veterans.
Kari Dake, Treasurer
Bio Coming soon