Victor family gives school $1 million

The family of Orville and Loanna Bloethe of Victor is giving almost $1 million to the HLV school district, where Orville Bloethe has been school board secretary for more than 50 years.

The Bloethes are funneling the gift through the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, with a $500,000 gift this month and $500,000 early next year.

Eighty percent of the endowed gift goes to the HLV school district and 20 percent is tentatively designated for Iowa State University, according to the foundation.

Orville Bloethe, 90, who still practices law, said there are no restrictions on the money to the school district, which encompasses the cities of Hartwick, Ladora and Victor.

Bloethe also served as the city attorney for Victor. His wife, Loanna, who taught English and home economics at HLV, died March 14.

The Bloethes received one of KCRG-TV9's “9 Who Care” awards in 2008.