The Story of Our Founding

Founded in 1933 by the three Falk sisters on a farm near Essex, IA, Falk’s Ice Cream has a rich history that we cherish. Our homemade ice cream quickly became a favorite in rural Iowa and surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and tradition, which has been passed down through generations.

We love hearing stories from you and hope you will enjoy these as much as we have.  We also encourage you to share your own Falks stories with us too!

I grew up with Falk's Ice Cream. My grandparents always had Lemon Custard readily available. To me Falk's is much more than just ice cream. It is those memories of times gone by with family that is no longer with us. Falk's brought us together. That was truly special and having it back is truly special. Those childhood memories come rushing back with every bite!

My mom was from Elliott, IA and my dad was from Omaha, NE. My family moved from Omaha, NE to Colorado in 1971 when I was 10 months old. Therefore, whenever we took a family vacation, it meant heading back to Iowa and Nebraska. I have a ton of childhood memories of playing with my cousins and being spoiled by my grandparents. One of the ways they spoiled us was always having ice cream in the freezer when we arrived. Falk’s Ice Cream…Lemon Custard to be more exact. 

Perhaps the most famous Red Oak, Iowa Native, is Judi Sheppard Missett, founder of Jazzercise.  She has enjoyed Falk’s Ice Cream since she was a little girl.  Her grandparents lived next door to the Falk Sisters in Essex, so Judi had her summers filled with plenty of Lemon Custard and Vanilla ice cream cones served directly to her by the Falk Sisters.  I can only imagine the joy that the Sisters had to have this beautiful little girl next door during those summers.  We, too, are so proud of the work Judi (and her family) have been able to accomplish throughout the World ….and still going strong.

Bill Horner

Judi recently wrote:

No worries! I have just been running full speed as this is our busiest season. I am 100% behind Falk Ice Cream. Love the chocolate idea and the soda fountain ideas. I remember the Sister’s giving me cones or cups of ice cream. Always fun to go visit my grandparents and then go next door and get ice cream. Good memories! More later! Judi 

We would love to hear your Falk's Story. Submit it here and we will continuously add stories on the website and Facebook page.