The Kandiyohi County Historical Society is proud to announce the inaugural Class of 2014 inductees into the West Central Minnesota Hall of Fame.  This year's inductees include:

Sylvester “Blix” Donnelly (1914-1976) A right-handed pitcher and lifelong resident of Olivia, MN.  He had an 18 year professional career between 1935-1952.  He played for the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, and Boston Braves.

Howie Schultz (1922-2009) played five seasons with the Willmar Rails starting in 1950.   Prior to coming to play in Willmar, Schultz played for the Brooklyn Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Cincinnati Reds. 

Mike Kingery (Grove City) played professional baseball for 17 years with the Kansas City Royals, Seattle Mariners, San Francisco Giants, Oakland A's, Colorado Rockies, and Pittsburgh Pirates.  He played VFW and American Legion baseball in Atwater and Willmar. 

Barry Wohler (Orono) a Bird Island native played baseball for Bird Island-Lake Lillian high school.  He played Legion ball for six years starting when he was in 7th grade.  He played at the University of Minnesota and signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers and played Triple A baseball.

Rueben “Rube” Nathe (Litchfield) started playing baseball in his youth in New Munich, MN.  He has been managing the Litchfield Blues since 1982.  Coached the Local American Legion team for 29 years.  Served as District and Minnesota Sate Vice Chairman for 36 years. 

Art Grangaard (1915-2004) was instrumental in building up the baseball interest in Willmar area in the 1950’s.  Awarded MVP of the Willmar Rails when they won the 1952 Class AA state tournament.  He was both manager and third baseman. 

Joe Martinson (1923-2007) started work at KWLM in 1947 where he covered many area high school, legion and Willmar Rails baseball games with his memorable play-by-play.  He was an assistant coach and manager of the Willmar American Legion baseball team.