Henry Ankeny

Graveside services for Henry Ankeny, age 83, of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Sunday, November 20, 2011 at Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa, were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at the Clarinda Cemetery with Reverend Andrew Rubenking officiating. Visitation with the family was be held Wednesday, November 23, 1-2 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Burial was in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the First Christian Church, Clarinda, Iowa or to the Goldenrod Manor .Care Center. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Henry Leo Ankeny passed away quietly Sunday night at Goldenrod Manor Care Center in Clarinda, Iowa. He was born August 20, 1928 in Hawleyville, Iowa to Edward Milton Ankeny and Esther Hallene Vance Ankeny. He grew up in Hawleyville and then the Villisca area having graduated from Villisca High School in 1946. He married Betty Jean Malvern Ankeny in Clarinda on December 17, 1947. They lived in Creston and Atlantic, Iowa and later moved to Colorado where Henry pursued his interest in radio and served as chief engineer for several radio stations. He had his own radio shows and did some d'jaying. He was a quiet man but was able to be his funny self hidden behind the microphone.

Henry and family moved back to Clarinda in 1959. He worked as police dispatcher and volunteer fireman and later started working for Lisle Corporation. He retired from Lisle's in 1988. He and Betty then did some traveling and spent a lot of time visiting their children and grandchildren. They became involved with the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum and devoted much time volunteering with the museum. He especially like the one-room school house as it reminded him of the school he had attended in Hawleyville. He often told the story of riding his horse three miles to catch the school bus. Henry was a lifelong member of the First Christian Church of Clarinda.

Henry was devoted to Betty and helped her endure the difficulties of living with Multiple Sclerosis. He mourned her loss up to the day he died. He was an honest man and instilled in his children this sense of honesty as a foundation for their lives.

Henry was preceded in death by his father and mother; his sister, Rose Wellendorf and her husband Herb of Ida Grove, Iowa; his granddaughter, Molly Christine McAlpin and the love of his live, Betty.

Henry is survived by two children, Steve (Patricia Ann) Ankeny of New Castle, Indiana and Nancy (Keith) Beattie of Clarinda. Steve has five children, Steven David Ankeny, Susan Marie (Gabriel) Smith, Philip Andrew Ankeny, Angela Michelle Ankeny and Monica (Michael) Dowd. Nancy has two children, Cory (Marla) McAlpin and Molly McAlpin (deceased). Great grandchildren are Anna Grace and Naomi Rose Smith, Allie and Nicole Scott, Connor Dowd, Bryson McAlpin, Wyatt and Rylie McAlpin. Henry is also survived by sister-in-law, Helen Cherry of Perris, California; nieces; nephews; cousins and many friends.

The family would like to thank everyone who supported them during their loss. May God bless each with the abundance of love they have felt in these hours.

Nicole Ann Fitzwater

Nicole Ann Fitzwater, the daughter of Jessie Bruce Fitzwater and Barbara Noel Boyce, was born November 16, 2011, at the Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa. She was accepted into God’s hands the same day surround by her family.

Surviving Nicole are her parents Jessie and Barbara of Villisca; grandparents: Roxann Boyce of Corning and Bruce and Jennifer Fitzwater of Villisca; great grandparents: Bill and Chlorina Fitzwater of Villisca and Barbara Coleman of Corning; aunts and uncles: Ashley Fitzwater, Steven Fitzwater, Matthew Boyce, Marcus Boyce, Desiree Burch and Stuart Haley. Baby Nicole is preceded in death by her grandfather Christopher Coleman and uncle Steve Fitzwater.

Funeral services for Nicole were held Monday, November 21, 2011 at the Advent Christian Church in Villisca. Burial followed the service at the Nodaway Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Family of Baby Nicole.

Wolfe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Rosenia K. "Rose" Sebeniecher

Rosenia K. "Rose" Sebeniecher, age 78, of Red Oak, Iowa formerly Stanton, Iowa, passed away Sunday, November 20, 2011 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. Rosenia Kathryine "Rose" Sebeniecher was born March 31, 1933 in Clarinda, Iowa the daughter of George and Dora (Engleka) Mascher. She was raised in Clarinda graduating from the Clarinda High School after which she received some nurses training. Rose was united in marriage to Robert Sebeniecher on May 8, 1951 in Bentonville, Arkansas. They lived many different places throughout the United States while Robert served in the military. Their time in Iowa was spent in Clarinda, Hamburg, Waukee, and Manning before moving to Stanton in 1976. Rose was a nurses' aid working at the hospital and Montgomery County Public Health for many years. She also spent time working at her son, Mike's café in Stanton, Iowa, the Wolfe Sale Barn, and the Iowa State University Extension. After retirement, Rose enjoyed volunteering at the Department of Human Services and the ISU extension where she enjoyed working for "Mr. Bill" as she would call Bill Drey. She received the ISU Extension "Friend of 4-H" Award during that time. She also volunteered by selling folding scissors for the National Federation of the Blind of Iowa. Rose loved to cook, crochet, fish, work crossword puzzles, and feed squirrels. She moved to Acorn Acres in Red Oak in 2008 with her best buddy Baxter the cat. Rose enjoyed her time there visiting with her friends and neighbors. Her greatest enjoyment came from the time she spent with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband: Bob in 1979; her grandson: Devin in 1984; her son: Steven in 2005; her sister: Laura; and her brother: Fred. Survivors include her children: Michael Sebeniecher and wife Debbie of Oskaloosa, IA; Rex Sebeniecher and wife Doris of Stanton, IA; John Sebeniecher and wife Angie of Double Oak, TX; and Connie Pendleton and husband Randy of Red Oak, IA; daughter-in-law: Pam Sebeniecher of Elk Horn, IA; grandchildren: Steven of Minnesota; Max of Des Moines, IA; Stephanie Hulgan of Des Moines, IA; Brandie Sebeniecher of Grinnell, IA; Dawn Strueby and husband Eric of Lenexa, KS; Lanette Harrington and husband Nick of Sioux City, IA; Jodi Lovato and husband Matthew of Colorado Springs, CO; Jeff Sebeniecher and wife Katrina of Red Oak, IA; Scot Sebeniecher and wife Kacey of Frisco, TX; Jenni Sebeniecher of Double Oak, TX; and Kylie Pendleton of Red Oak, IA; step-grandson: Robert Sult of Des Moines, IA; great grandchildren: Brianne, Brooklyn, Isaac, Luke, Ian, Logan, Garrett, Katelyn, Benjamin, Sarah, Emily, and Kaleb; sisters: Georgia and Joetta; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 1 PM Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Pastor Terry McClain officiating. Burial will be in the Mission Covenant Cemetery near Stanton, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held from 5-7 PM Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Red Oak 4-H Clubs.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Myrna Ailene Johnson

Myrna Ailene Johnson, the daughter of Russell Santford and Lois Edna (Allen) Hughes was born April 12, 1926 at Clio, Iowa. She passed away on Sunday, November 20, 2011 at the Stanton Care Center, Stanton, Iowa at the age of 85 years, 7 months and 8 days.

Myrna was raised in Kellerton, Iowa where she graduated high school. She received an Associate Degree from Graceland College at Lamoni, and her B.A. from Simpson College at Indianola. She earned graduate degrees from U.N.O., including a Master's Degree in Elementary School Administration, Secondary School Administration, Guidance and Counseling, and an Education Specialist Degree in School Administration and Curriculum. She started her teaching career in 1946 teaching junior high at Stanton for two years. Myrna then taught in Villisca for several years before returning to teach at Stanton. She was united in marriage to Robert E. Johnson on August 19, 1951 in Kellerton, Iowa. Myrna continued to teach and serve as guidance counselor and principal in Stanton until 1969 when she became the guidance counselor for Nishna Valley Schools. She worked there until her official retirement in 1988. After retiring, Myrna taught college courses for Buena Vista and Iowa Western, in Clarinda, Shenandoah, and at "Bethesda University". She then returned AGAIN to Stanton to be guidance counselor until 1999. Although she was not even remotely Swedish, she took an avid interest in her husband's Swedish heritage, and was instrumental in initiating Santa Lucia and Svenska Skolen, which are woven into the fabric of life in Stanton. Myrna loved teaching and especially loved her students. She could remember nearly all of them, and would often stop strangers to inquire how their lives had turned out. Inevitably they would turn out to be one of her students, and the discussion would turn to their children, grand children, and perhaps one or more of the "naughty" or "precious" boys or girls that were in the same class. Because she cared so deeply for each of her students, their triumphs and tragedies became her own, and they shaped her life as much as she shaped theirs.

Myrna was a member of Mamrelund Lutheran Church, where she had served as choir director and active in the WELCA. She served on the Stanton Library board, was on the advisory board for the Stanton Swedish Heritage and Cultural Center, a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and Entre Nous Federated Club.

Myrna was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert E. Johnson on June 26, 2002; brothers: Allen Jackson Hughes and Arlen Franklin Hughes; and son-in-law, Steve Mainquist.

Myrna is survived by her daughter, Sheila Mainquist of Red Oak, IA; son, Neil Johnson and wife Terese of Waverly, NE; five grandchildren: Christine and John Mainquist, Christopher, Lynnea and Alyson Johnson; brother, Russell "Arvid" Hughes and wife Julie of Salisbury, NC; and sister, Myna Ione Gibbens of McFarland, WI; nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Celebration of Life Service were held on Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Stanton, Iowa. Burial in Mamre Cemetery, Stanton with Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli, Officiating. Visitation with the family present on Tuesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home. Memorials to: Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Stanton Swedish Heritage and Cultural Center or Stanton Library. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Margaret L. Posten

Memorial services for Margaret L. Posten, 96, of Villisca, Iowa, were held on Saturday, November 19, 2011, at the Villisca United Methodist Church. There will be a private burial of ashes in the North Page Cemetery at a later date.

Margaret Lois (Williams) Posten was born March 28, 1915 in Montgomery County, Iowa to Harry and Ethel (Fisher) Williams. She attended and graduated in the class of 1931 from Villisca High School. She attended college at Tarkio College in Missouri and obtained her Bachelors degree. After graduating from college, Margaret started her career as a school teacher. She married Leonard Posten on December 21, 1936 in Red Oak, Iowa and to this union were born two children: Pamela Ann and John Leonard. In the late 50’s, Margaret wrote an Iowa history book call “This is a Place Iowa” which was used in the Iowa State Public School System. She also wrote three children’s books. She was active in the Methodist Church.

Margaret passed away Sunday, November 13, 2011 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband Leonard.

Surviving Margaret are her children: Pamela Abel and husband Bill Hinshaw of Boulder, Colorado and John Posten and wife Margaret of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren: Whitney Clarkson and husband John of Berthoud, Colorado and Jan Posten and wife Heather of Villisca, Iowa; great grandchildren Kenyon and Tristan Clarkson of Berthoud, Colorado.

Sharon Lynn Fisher Loutzenhiser

Sharon Lynn Fisher Loutzenhiser was born September 3, 1938 at Fort Dodge, Iowa and passed away at the Longview Farm near Villisca, IA, on November 3, 2011. Her parents were Frederick and Icle Fisher. Sharon graduated from Villisca High School in 1956 and then attended Aurora University for 1 year. She worked 4 years for an oral and plastic surgeon. Working with the plastic surgeon got her interested in speech therapy so she went to the University of Nebraska and received her BS in 1966 and then worked for the Omaha Public Schools for 3 years. Sharon started a program in Taylor and Adams Counties and during the summers did MTI work at the University of Nebraska where she received her MS degree in 1974. While teaching in Bedford she met Robert Loutzenhiser. In November, 1972, they were married at the Villisca Presbyterian Church. They made their home in Blockton until 1975 when they moved to the Fisher Family Farm near Villisca. Sharon had a real fondness for four legged animals especially Tristan, her Siamese cat, as well as Snoopy, Pal, Stinker 1 and 2 and most recently Mugs, the dogs. She liked being outside helping Robert with the farm and working in her flower beds. When Sharon married Robert she also got 4 kids, David, Dee, Greg, and Gary.

Sharon is survived by her four stepchildren, David (Mary Kay) of Blockton, Dee (Dave) Qualls of Long Beach, CA, Greg of Des Moines and Gary (Martha) of Santee, CA; four granddaughters: Tammy (Vincent) Jorgensen, Cindy (Chet) Brandenburg, Crystal Loutzenhiser, Peggy (Ben) Roed: three grandsons: Jorge, Kevin and Alan Loutzenhiser (fiancé, Danielle), three great granddaughters: Viola, Aubrey, and Elana, and one great grandson Kepler. She also has a sister, Dorothy Tucker of Blair, NE: a sister-in-law, Bonnie Fisher of Bettendorf, IA; nieces: Sandra Gray, Stacey Fisher-Meyers and Kate Fisher; great niece Elizabeth Myers; nephews Duane Gray and Frederick Gray and many cousins.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Charles F. Fisher, and her husband Robert Loutzenhiser.

Sharon was a member of the First Presbyterian Church Villisca, IA for 60 years after joining in 1951. She served as deacon for 16 years and taught junior high Sunday school some of those years. She served as secretary for almost 30 years - keeping the office going during times when the church was without a pastor. Both she and Robert had been members of the choir. She was active in the Presbyterian Women when her health allowed, serving for a time as President.

Sharon was also a member of PEO Chapter CH in Villisca, serving as President for a period of years. Honorary Pall Bearers: Jim Kasha, Henry Kasha, Jim Waldron, Mark Herzberg, Ray Reineke, Elmer Grashorn, Chris Nelsen, Carol Wilhelm, and Lynn Wiechman.

Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca is in charge of arrangements. www.WolfeVillisca.com

Marvin L. Ward

Funeral services for Marvin L. Ward were held on Thursday, November 3, 2011, at the Villisca United Methodist Church followed by burial in the Villisca Cemetery. Pastor Gordon M. Scott officiated. Marvin Ward, 86, of Villisca died October 30, 2011 at the Villisca Good Samaritan Center. Memorials are suggested to the Strand Lutheran Church or the Villisca Good Samaritan Society.

Marvin LeRoy Ward, the son of Freeman LeRoy and Hazel Rebecca (Vallier) Ward, was born on December 30, 1924 in Pottawattamie County, Neola, Iowa. He was raised on the same farm where he was born, being the third generation living on the “home place.” He attended the rural school near to his home and then to Beebeetown where he graduated from Beebeetown High School in 1944. After graduation he entered the U.S. Army and served from 1944-1946 in the India-Burma Theatre, World War II, stationed in India. After being discharged from the Army, he returned home to farm with his parents until his marriage.

Marvin was united in marriage to Elizabeth Louise “Betty” Marsh December 10, 1949, at the Villisca United Methodist Church. Their marriage was blessed by three children: Gregory, Kurt, and Jan Denise. After their marriage, the couple farmed near Underwood, Iowa. In 1951 they moved to the Guss area south of Villisca and in 1955 they moved to their farm in the Strand area of Adams County. Marvin turned the farming over to son Gregory in 1984 because of health concerns. Later when Greg died, the land was rented out. Marvin and Betty remained in their farm home until December 1997 when they moved to their current home in Villisca.

Marvin was a member of Strand Lutheran Church having served on the church council, many different committees, and was a trustee on the Strand Cemetery board. He also served on the Hackle Barney Watershed and the Rockdale School Board in Adams County. He was an OsGold-Asgrow Seed salesman for forty years. He liked to make things. His hobbies were woodworking and metal work. Marvin was a farmer and his interest in agriculture never wavered.

In 2007 Marvin moved to the Villisca Good Samaritan Center where he received excellent care. He loved his family and was still able to enjoy all their special times together. Marvin and Betty were blessed to celebrate their 61st Wedding Anniversary in 2010. He will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, son Gregory in 1986, brother Jack Ward, nephew John Ward, and niece Deborah Ward. He is survived by his wife Betty Ward of Villisca; son Kurt Ward of Glendale, Arizona; daughter Jan Denise (Bill) Barr of Villisca; daughter-in-law Jona Ward (Randy) Nelson of Villisca; six grandchildren: Shane (Kara) Ward of Kansas City, Missouri, Renae (Steve) Sunquist of Stanton, Melissa (C.J.) Dolph of Villisca, Brandie M. (Reed) Good of Denver, Colorado, Brice Blank of Perry, Oklahoma, and Brian (Penni) Blank of Ora Valley, Arizona; twelve great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Shirley Ward of Omaha, Nebraska; many other relatives and friends.

Dorothe Marie Johnson

Dorothe Marie Johnson, 89 of Villisca, Iowa passed away Monday, September 26, 2011 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa. She was born August 5, 1922 in Villisca, Iowa the daughter of Henry G. Kernen and Mary Jarman Kernen.

Dorothe went to country school through 8th grade. She stayed at friends’ homes in Villisca while attending high school and graduated from Villisca High School in 1939. She attended Parson’s College in Fairfield, Iowa and began teaching after graduation. She taught in the Grub Ridge, Morton Mills and Findley country schools from 1941 to 1943. She also worked at Cox Produce in Villisca as a bookkeeper. After moving into town she worked part-time at the Villisca Public Library and the Villisca City Hall.

On December 3, 1944 she was united in marriage to Stanley Johnson. After moving a few times, they purchased a farm northeast of Villisca where they lived for 25 years. They then built a new house and moved to Villisca.

When Dorothe and Stanley were younger they enjoyed dancing, horse racing at Aksarben in Omaha, and later going to the casinos. Her hobbies included sewing, knitting, latch hook, and jigsaw puzzles. As she got older and began to slow down, she enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles and hand held computer games.

Dorothe was a survivor by beating cancer, sustaining many falls, one involving a head injury and another causing a broken hip. She lived the last two years of her life at the Good Samaritan Center in Villisca where she was well taken care of before spending her final days at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital.

She is survived by daughter Jane Johnson of Kansas City, Missouri; son Bob and wife Sue of Omaha, Nebraska; and daughter Ann Murphy of Marshalltown, Iowa; three grandchildren: Matt of San Francisco, California, Molly of Omaha, Nebraska and Staci of Marshalltown, Iowa; two brothers Kenneth and Henry Jr. Kernen; several nieces and nephews.

Her parents and husband preceded her in death.

Funeral services were held Friday, September 30, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at the Presbyterian Church in Villisca, Iowa. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca in charge of arrangements.

LaVon E. Larson

LaVon Elaine Larson, the daughter of Abner and Leona (Proehl) Nelson was born November 9, 1934 in Montevideo, Minnesota. She passed away Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 76 years, 10 months and 25 days.

LaVon was raised in Montevideo, MN. She was baptized and confirmed at Our Savior Lutheran Church of Montevideo. In 1952, LaVon graduated from Montevideo High School and attended Jr. College at Rochester, MN, earning a medical secretary certificate. She moved to Omaha, NE and worked in the radiology department at Methodist Hospital for three years. On June 8, 1957 LaVon was united in marriage to Kenneth D. Larson in Montevideo, MN. Kenneth was a farmer and they lived on farms near Bethesda and Essex before 1964, when they bought and made their home on a farm north of Bethesda, IA. Along with helping Kenneth, LaVon worked at the Stanton Care Center for 15 years, as an aide and with laundry, but for most of the time with the dietary department. She was a member of the Bethesda Lutheran Church, where she enjoyed singing in the choir, serving as a Sunday school teacher, and quilting with the ladies of the church. LaVon enjoyed gardening, cooking, canning, sewing and playing cards. She was also involved in many neighborhood clubs and was still a regular with the Merry Mixers. LaVon treasured her family and loved to attend and support her grandson's school activities, along with other local events.

LaVon was preceded in death by her father, Abner; husband, Kenneth on July 23, 2005 and sister, Wanda Flickinger.

LaVon is survived by daughters: Lori Miloni and husband Tony of North Little Rock, AR; and Lynn Meier and husband Dennis of Villisca, IA; grandsons: Daniel Meier and special friend Jackie Carlson; and David Meier; mother, Leona Nelson of Clarkfield, MN; nephews: Ronald Falk and wife Connie of Columbus, NE; and Scott Flickinger and wife Debbie of Andover, MN; nieces: Carol Falk of Tucson, AZ; and Sheryl Bednar and husband Paul of Imperial, PA; other relatives and a host of friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service was held Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 10:30 a.m., Bethesda Lutheran Church, Bethesda, IA, Burial in the Bethesda Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Lamb, Officiating. Visitation with the family present on Friday, Oct. 7, 2011 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home Family requests memorials in lieu of flowers to the Bethesda Lutheran Church. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Willis Dean Baker

Willis Dean Baker, the son of Samuel L. and Jessie I. (Fail) Baker was born September 19, 1937 in Page County, Iowa. He passed away on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at the Jennie Edmundson Hospital, Council Bluffs, Iowa at the age of 74 years and 23 days.

Willis lived in the Page and Montgomery County area, graduating with the Villisca High School class of 1956. He entered the Iowa Army National Guard, Red Bull Division, Co "C" 2nd Bn 168th Infantry of Villisca on December 15, 1954. He was activated to federal service during the Cuban Missile Crisis and was discharged on July 1, 1964. Willis was united in marriage to Regina L. "Jean" Ellis on October 28, 1956 in Villisca. Totaling 21 years, Willis was a meat cutter in Nodaway for Raymond Spring & Veryl Ellis and Villisca locker and HVAC for Eldon Mikesell. Later, Willis worked for Oakland packing house. In 1984, Willis began an 18 year career with RO MECH in Red Oak as maintenance supervisor, retiring in 2002. Willis loved baseball and played for the Nodaway town team along with helping coach little league. Willis was a member of the Villisca Advent Christian Church, Iroquois #590 Masonic Lodge of Nodaway being initiated April 4, 1967, Southwest Iowa Senior Golf Association and past Nodaway Volunteer Fire Department. Willis was a devoted Iowa Hawkeye and Dallas Cowboy's football fan. In his spare time, Willis enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, shooting and playing the lottery. He was an excellent woodworker and loved refinishing furniture. Willis was an avid reader of Western books and was always keeping up on current events. He had a love affair, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for D & L, RO MECH and its employees and products up until his passing.

Willis was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Albert and Don; sister, Dorothy and other infant siblings.

Willis is survived by his wife, Regina "Jean" Baker of Red Oak, IA; sons: Jerry Baker and wife Rhonda of Red Oak, IA; Mike Baker and wife Michelle of Arlington, NE; and Brad Baker of Red Oak, IA; 4 grandchildren: Zoey & Macy Baker, Tyler Baker and wife Sara, and Trey Baker; sisters: Evelyn Salway of Villisca, IA and Sharon Farlin of Emerson, IA; nieces and nephews, along with other relatives and friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Celebration of Life service was held Monday, October 17, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home, Red Oak, Iowa. Burial in Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, IA with Rev. Gordon Scott, Officiating. Masonic Services will be held at the graveside. A Memorial is being established in Willis's name. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com. Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

William Charles Anderson

William "Bill" Charles Anderson of Lake Monticello, Virginia, 75, died suddenly at his home on Tuesday, October 25, 2011. Bill lived in Fluvanna County, Virginia for the last 18 years where he was an active partner in the Enviro-Klean Company and Starlite Park. During those same years Bill participated in the Fluvanna County government, holding positions on the Planning Commission and the Zoning Appeals Board. He also served on the Lake Monticello Board of Directors and various committees related to the governance of his community. One of the things he enjoyed most during was writing a weekly column for his hometown newspaper, The Villisca Review. This weekly "job" reconnected him with so many old friends and distant relatives, and he made many new friends.

Throughout his life, Bill was always involved in volunteer activities. Since boyhood he was passionately involved in GOP politics. Recently, he enjoyed working with the Fluvanna County Chamber of Commerce and the Fluvanna County Arts Council.

He was born and raised on a farm between Villisca and Stanton in Montgomery County Iowa. Bill graduated from Wichita State University in 1959 where he worked as the TV Editor of the Wichita Beacon. After graduation, he moved to Fort Dodge, Iowa where he became a county Farm Bureau membership organizer. A promotion to Information Director of the Minnesota Farm Bureau prompted a move to St Paul in 1961. In 1967 he moved his young family to Virginia to begin his long lobbying and political career in Washington, DC. He worked for the American Farm Bureau Association until 1976 when he started lobbying for the "wildcatters" at the Independent Petroleum Association of America. In 1989, Bill went to work for the National Republican Congressional Committee working to help elect GOP Members of Congress. That led to a position as Chief of Staff to New Jersey Congressman Jim Saxton, and two years later to a job with U.S. English, trying to get Congress to make English the official language of the U.S.

He was predeceased in death by his parents Wayne C. and Thelma Wheeler Anderson, his sister Chatham Anderson Hills, and his grandson Ryan Anderson.

Bill is survived by his wife of 54 years Annette Nelson Anderson; his daughter Desiree Anderson of Ashburn, Virginia; son Mike Anderson of Fluvanna County, Virginia; son Jack Anderson of Ocean View, Delaware. He is also survived by his granddaughter Christian Anderson of Ivy, Virginia and grandson Taylor Anderson of Fluvanna County, Virginia. Bill, is survived by many other family members and friends to0 numerous to name, and he loved them all deeply.

Burial will take place on Saturday, November 12 in Stanton, Iowa at 10:30 am, with the funeral service following at 11:00 am at Mamrelund Lutheran Church. A "Celebration of Life" will be held on Saturday, January 7 at 1:00 pm at Starlite Park in the Crossroads Auto Center at Zion Crossroads, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, there are 3 charities that my father supported for many years, that I ask that you consider giving a donation to: Mamrelund Lutheran Church, 410 Eastern Avenue, Stanton, Iowa 51573; Stanton Historical Society, 410 Hilltop Avenue, Stanton, Iowa 51573; or Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire & Rescue Squad, 14 Slice Road, Palmyra, Virginia

Norma D. Kemery

Norma Dean Kemery died Thursday, October 20, 2011, at Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, after a brief illness. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 27, 2011, at the Villisca Presbyterian Church. Funeral services will follow, at 2:00 p.m., at the Church, with the Rev. Sandy Wainright-Rossander presiding. Burial at Snow Hill Cemetery in Coin, Iowa, will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Villisca Public Library or the Villisca EMTs. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa

Mrs. Kemery was born Norma Dean Bradley on September 1, 1924, on a farm near Gravity, Iowa, to Leah (neé Monahan) and Lloyd Bradley. She attended country school near Gravity until the family moved into the town of Gravity. She graduated from Gravity High School in 1941. She continued her education at Northwest Missouri State Teachers College and completed a teachers' certificate program.

She taught in country schools in Taylor County, Iowa, both before and after her marriage to John B. Kemery on January 30, 1943. During the early years of their marriage, they lived in Bedford, Iowa, and their two children were born there. They moved their family to Villisca, Iowa, in 1952. Mrs. Kemery stopped teaching after World War II, and she worked as a homemaker while her children were young. She later worked at the Villisca Public Library for several years. While she was working at the Library, she accepted a part-time position with the Nodaway Valley National Bank in Villisca. Over the years, she became a full-time employee and rose through the ranks to become an officer and member of the board of the Bank. She retired from full-time employment when the Bank was sold to Citizens State Bank (now Bank Iowa) in 1989.

Mrs. Kemery enjoyed life in the small-towns of Iowa. Long after her own children were grown, she followed the activities of her friends and their children in the community and the local schools for many years. They in turn looked after her, and she was able to remain in her own home until her health seriously deteriorated in 2008. In 2009, she moved to an independent retirement apartment near the homes of her children in St. Louis, Missouri, and she continued to live there until her death.

Mrs. Kemery was preceded in death by her husband, John B. Kemery, Sr., her granddaughter, Rebecca Lynne Kemery, and her parents. She is survived by her son, J. Barton Kemery, Jr., (and his wife, Barbara) and her daughter, Barbara Kemery, both of St. Louis. In addition, she is survived by her grandchildren, Elizabeth Kemery Sipes (Brian) of Denver,Colorado, Jennifer Kemery Couch (Gary) of Atlanta, Georgia, and Michael D. Kemery (Kelli) of Seattle, Washington, and by her great-grandchildren, Tennyson D. Sipes, Mackenzie A. Couch, Jayden A. Kemery, Madelyn A. Kemery, Huxley A. Kemery, and Baby Kemery due in November.

Dorothy Marveline McConnell was born April 20, 1917, northwest of Villisca, Iowa. She was one of four daughters born to John L. and Mabel E. (Nelson) Hultquist. She graduated from Villisca High School in the class of 1934. On March 17th of that year she was united in marriage to Kenneth E. Andrew. They farmed in the Villisca area until moving into Villisca. She taught in rural schools in Montgomery, Page and Adams counties; and she served one year as president of the Page Count Rural Schools. She, also, served as the assessor for the City of Villisca and she worked at the Villisca Veterinarian Clinic. Kenneth died in 1969.

She was a member of the Villisca United Methodist Church teaching Sunday school classes in Villisca and Morton’s Mill churches.

In 1971 she graduated from IWCC School of Practical Nursing at Clarinda, Iowa with the Highest Honors. She worked as an LPN at the Villisca Good Samaritan Nursing Home and at the Stanton Care Center retiring in 1979.

She married Eugene McConnell on September 4, 1971. This union added three step-children Peggy, Wesley, and Stanley into her life. She and Eugene continued to share their lives until he died in 1999.

Marveline enjoyed traveling, reading and her family. She was able to continue living in her home on 4th Avenue until she entered the Villisca Good Samaritan Center in September.

Marveline is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Kenneth (1969), her husband Eugene (1999), her sister Florence Mosman, and step son-in-law Dick Pierson.

She is survived by her step-children Peggy Pierson of Oakland, Iowa, Wesley (Betty) McConnell of Canton, South Dakota, and Stanley (Phyllis) McConnell of Indianola, Iowa; 8 step-grandchildren; 17 step-great grandchildren; 1 step great-great grandchild; sisters Viola Johnson of Creston, Iowa, and Fern Brown of Corning, Iowa; 10 nieces and nephews as well as great and great,great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Marveline McConnell, 94, of Villisca, Iowa, were held Thursday, October 20, 2011 at the Villisca United Methodist Church with burial in the Arlington Cemetery. Pastor Gordon M. Scott officiated. Mrs. McConnell passed away Monday, October 17, 2011 at the Villisca Good Samaritan. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca assisted with the arrangements.

Velma Elizabeth Neumayer

Velma Elizabeth Neumayer was born January 11, 1921, in Breda, IA, the daughter of Frank and Rosalia (Brinker) Fee. She graduated from St. Bernard High School in 1938. While helping out in her parent's restaurant, Velma also worked as a relief telephone operator for the Breda Telephone Company and then took a job at the Breda Post Office. Being the oldest daughter in the family of seven children, many of the household duties and caring for her younger siblings became her responsibility.

On August 1, 1945, Velma was united in marriage to Herb Neumayer in St. Bernard's Catholic Church at Breda, IA. Together with Pork and Elaine, they operated a tavern In Arthur, Iowa and in 1948 returned to Breda where she became a full time wife and mother. In 1952, the family moved to Bancroft, Iowa. After 4 years, Velma and Herb moved to a farm east of Mallard where they farmed until 1967. They then moved into Mallard where she began working at Berkley Manufacturing in Emmetsburg until Herb's death in 1979. Following this, she cleaned the elevator and bank in Mallard until her retirement.

Velma was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Christian Mother's and the American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing cards, doing embroidery, working crossword puzzles, and reading. She was an excellent cook and baker and canned many vegetables. Velma treasured family gatherings and any time spent with her grandchildren. She always had a treat for them.

On Tuesday, September 20, 2011, Velma passed away at the Muse-Norris Hospice Home in Mason City, Iowa, at the age of 90.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Nancy Johnson and her husband, Carl of Villisca, IA, Sandra Leonard and her husband, Gary of Emmetsburg and Gary Neumayer, and wife, Mary of Ida Grove, IA; brother, Keith Fee, and his wife, Rosemary of Rochester, MN; sister, Patricia Brandt and her husband, Don of Marietta, CA; six grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Glen (Stoney) Neumayer and his wife, Bonnie of Carroll, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Herb; granddaughter, Connie Ruddy; great-granddaughter, Mikayla Neumayer; two brothers: Iver and Virtus "Red" Fee; two sisters: Elaine Fee Neumayer and Phyllis Mae Fee Neumayer; five sisters-in-law: Ella Mae Fee, Dorothy Bohnenkamp, Rita Fee, Mary Neumayer and Ila Mae Neumayer; and four brothers-in-law: Jerry, Roland "Pork", and Kenny Neumayer, and Myron Bohnenkamp.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Velma Neumayer, 90, of Mallard was held Sept. 24th at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Mallard. Burial is in St. Mary's Cemetery, Mallard.

Joel was born in Fairfield, Iowa to Geneva and Harry Taylor and grew up in the small town of Villisca, Iowa with his sister Jean and his mother. He attended grade school and high school in Villisca, and after graduating worked part time for the State Highway Commission as a surveyor while attending Clarinda Community College. Joel maintained the friendships formed in his childhood for the rest of his life. Always athletic, Joel received a football/basketball scholarship to Iowa State, but lost it due to a back injury and was forced to drop out of school and work full time for the State Highway Commission.

His life changed dramatically when he was drafted by the United States Army to serve during the Korean War. He became a sergeant in the Army Corps of Engineers, where he served as a surveyor in Korea from 1950 - 1952. After his service, he and Bob Chapel, his army buddy and friend for life, come to Bob's home in California and attended Compton Community College. The GI Bill enabled Joel to graduate from California Sate University Fresno in 1955 with a degree in Criminology. Most important, Fresno is where Joel met his future wife, Dana Wilson, who attended school there a well. They were married in 1955.

Joel and Dana moved to Walnut Creek, California later that Fall, so Joel could begin his career with State Farm Insurance. His first daughter, Susanne was born in 1959, and the small family moved shortly thereafter to Anaheim, California as Joel was promoted further into the company. His second daughter, Stephanie was born in 1961, and with her birth, the family was complete. The friends Joel and Dana made early in their marriage, both in Walnut Creed and Anaheim, remain friends for life.
Joel continued to flourish at State Farm and the family moved from California to Bloomington, Illinois and several years later, moved back again to Anaheim. After State Farm opened a regional office in Westlake Village, California, Joel moved his family to Thousand Oaks where he and Dana lived for the next 27 years. During his tenure with State Farm, Joel was appointed to serve on the California Fair Plan for several years, and led the organization as its chairman from 1981 - 1982. Joel retired from State Farm after 36 years where he gained the respect of his employees and co-workers as a hard working, loyal and intelligent member of the State Farm family. The relationships Joel developed during his long career remain lifetime friends.

In 1996, several years after retirement, Joel and Dana made the decision to move to Fresno, California to be near their daughters, sons-in-laws and grandchildren. It is cosmic coincidence that Joel and Dana ended up in the town in which they met almost 60 years ago. During the relatively short time that Joel loved in Fresno, he became involved with the Sirs Organization, Branch 179, where he made many new golf buddies. He and Dana also became members of Saint James Anglican Cathedral, where; as is his nature, Joel developed more valued relationships. The greatest beneficiaries though, of the move to Fresno, have been Joel and Dana's grandchildren, Max, Mel, Leah and Alex. All four have been so lucky to have had such a close relationship to both Grandma and Grandpa. Their lives are forever richer and continue to be influenced by the love of their grandparents.

Joel had many health scares over the years and he somehow soldiered through them all. But after declining health during the last 6 months, on August 12, 2011, Joel died peacefully, at home, with Dana by his side.

Beverly A. Goodemote

Beverly Ann Goodemote, the daughter of Elmer and Beulah (Collier) Brammer was born August 6, 1936 in Malvern, Iowa. She passed away Friday, September 9, 2011 at her home, in rural Stanton, Iowa with her family by her side at the age of 75 years, 1 month and 3 days.

Beverly attended school in Carson, Iowa and graduated from Carson High School in l954. She entered the United States Air Force and was stationed at Geiger Air Force Base, Washington. Beverly met fellow airman and future husband, Gary R. Goodmote at Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois while both were in parachute rigger school. On December 22, 1955, Beverly and Gary were united in marriage in Carson, Iowa. Beverly continued her career with the Air Force, being honorably discharged in 1956. They lived in the Maryland/Washington D.C. area until 1971, when they decided to move their family to Stanton, Iowa. Beverly was a homemaker, but at different times of her life worked for Earl May Seed & Nursery in Shenandoah, D & L and Uniroyal in Red Oak. In her later years, Beverly returned to school and became an L.P.N. She enjoyed music, as she loved to sing and dance. Beverly also loved to fish, teaching her children and grandchildren the art of fishing. She was an avid reader, and loved to play a good game of Scrabble with the family, a creative way of helping grandchildren reinforce spelling skills. Beverly collected Pepsi items and was an active member of the Worth While Club in Stanton.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Sherie Wistrom; brothers: Stanley Brammer and Elmer Brammer; and sisters: Marcia J. Brammer, Leona Shrake and Shirley Durham.

Beverly is survived by her husband, Gary R. Goodemote of rural Stanton, IA; four children: Tammy Goodemote and partner Julie Wood of Red Oak, IA; Calvin Goodemote and wife LeeAnn of Thayer, IA; Rodney Goodemote and wife Tricia of Niceville, FL; and Laura Shafer and husband Brian of Stanton, IA; 10 grandchildren: Christopher Wistrom and wife Elana, Jonathan Wistrom and wife Rachel, Skyler Wistrom, Daniel Goodemote and wife Chris, Jessica LaMasters and husband Curtis, Brandon Goodemote, Bethany Goodemote, Isaac Goodemote, Ryan Hummel and fiancée Aprill Lout, and Megan Shafer; 3 great-grandchildren: Gregory, Alexis and Kacy; 5 sisters: Betty Neighbors of LaGrande, OR; Charlotte McClain and husband Howard of Council Bluffs, IA; Bonnie Christensen and partner Victor Breakfield of Carson, IA; Sandra Viner and husband Gordon of Omaha, NE; and Cheryl Helle of Des Moines, IA; many nieces, nephews, along with other relatives and friends.

Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 10:30 a.m.at the Evangelical Covenant Church, Stanton, IA; Burial in Mamre Cemetery; Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli, Officiating

Memorials to Red Oak Public Library. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Helen Strong

Hellen went to be with the Lord she loved, Saturday, September 3, 2011 at the age of 86.

She is survived by her daughter Carole (Glen) Gruenemeier; granddaughters Sheri Hartman and Holly (Michael) Anderson; great-grandsons Joshua (Jody) Sexton and Jacob Sexton; great-granddaughter Kaylie Anderson; great-great-grandchildren Tiler and Hailey Sexton; and a host of other family and friends who loved her and whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents Rex and Hazel McNeal and the precious aunt who raised her Bonnie Ritnour, her brother Russell McNeal and sister Doris Clark.

Hellen was loved by us all and will be greatly missed. Services were held at 11:00 am, on Thursday, September 8, 2011 at the Vistoso Funeral Home, 2285 E. Rancho Vistoso Blvd, Oro Valley, AZ. Sign the online guestbook at www.vistosofuneralhome.com. For information call 520-544-2285.

Alice D. Bergren

Alice D. Bergren, age 59, of Red Oak, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, April 19, 2011 at the Nebraska Methodist Hospital in Omaha. Alice Donna Bergren was born March 24, 1952 in Villisca, Iowa the daughter of Jim and Wilma (Sebenecher) Lewis. She graduated from Villisca High School in 1970 and started work at the Clarinda Mental Health Facility. She was united in marriage to Richard Dozier and two children were born to this union: Tina and Richie. Alice moved to Red Oak in 1980 and was united in marriage to Gary "Pee Wee" Bergren on November 27, 1983. Over the years Alice worked for Williams Recreation, D & L, Eatons, TRACO, and most recently Merry Maids until January of this year. She was a former Red Oak Eagles member. Her family describes her as thoughtful, generous, considerate, loving, a joker, and hard working. Pee Wee also says that she was "Perfect". Alice loved collecting anything relating to Indians and loved eagles and angels. She also was known for all her decorations at the holidays whether it was Christmas or Halloween and others.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her infant sister: Treiva; and her father-in-law: Dale Bergren. Survivors include her husband: Gary "Pee Wee" Bergren of Red Oak, Iowa; daughter: Tina Bressler and husband Tim of Red Oak, Iowa; son: Richie Dozier and wife Dawn of Red Oak, Iowa; grandchildren: Brittany Hartfield and husband Lincoln of Shenandoah, Iowa and David James Zwerk of Red Oak, Iowa; and expecting her first great-grandchild; sister: Coleen Herren and husband John of Red Oak, Iowa; brother: Duane Lewis of Colorado Springs, Colorado; mother-in-law: Lois Bergren of Red Oak, Iowa; sister-in-law: Joy Bergren of Des Moines, Iowa; brothers-in-law: Tom Bergren and wife Denise of Villisca, Iowa; and David Bergren and wife Shelley of Red Oak, Iowa; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 10 AM Saturday, April 23, 2011 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Pastor Dale Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 6-8 PM Friday, April 22, 2011 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Merlin Ralph Vetter

Merlin Ralph Vetter, the son of Ralph and Louise (Lindner) Vetter was born December 24, 1936 in Montgomery County, Iowa near Grant. He passed away peacefully on Friday, April 22, 2011 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 74 years, 3 months and 29 days.

Merlin was raised in rural Montgomery County near Grant, Iowa. He graduated from Griswold High School in l954 and began farming. Merlin was united in marriage to Janice Swanson, daughter of Harry and Aura Swanson on April 6, 1958 in Red Oak, Iowa. Merlin served many years on the board for Noble Township Mutual Insurance and was a longtime member of the Pilot Grove United Methodist Church. Merlin loved farming and working in his shop, and was known as a wonderful neighbor and friend who could fix anything. He also enjoyed refurbishing guns, hand-crafting beautiful wood stocks. Merlin and his late wife, Jan traveled extensively with their dear friends, Allen and Charlene Hines, and spent many Sunday evenings together planning their next trip or reminiscing about their last one.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Louise Vetter; wife, Jan on March 25, 2006; and two sisters: Loretta Barr and Maxine Orstad.

Merlin was most proud of his family and is survived by one daughter, Barb Allen and husband, Mark of rural Stanton, IA; two sons: Greg Vetter and wife, Lisa of rural Red Oak, IA and Gary Vetter and wife, Kris of rural Elliott, IA; eight grandchildren: Brayton Allen and wife, Lindsey of Stanton, IA; Bryce and Kara Allen, of Stanton, IA; Mallie Kludt and husband, Steve of Sioux Falls, SD; Mandie Reynolds and husband, Joshua of Council Bluffs, IA; Sydney Vetter of Sioux Falls, SD; Jacob Vetter and fiancé, Jordan Ecklin of Atlantic, IA and Jordan Vetter of rural Elliott, IA; three great-grandchildren: Alexis Kludt, Maven Allen and Ayden Vetter; and sister, Dorothy Gridley of Villisca, IA; along with many other relatives and friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Celebration of Life Service held Monday, April 25, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home, Red Oak, Burial in Evergreen Cemetery, Red Oak, Rev. Gordon Scott, Officiating

Visitation with the family present at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home on Sunday evening, April 24th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Memorials may be made to your local Fire & Rescue Department in Merlin's name. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com. Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy Mae Edie

Dorothy Mae Edie, the daughter of Kelly Ray and Carrie Margaret (Buck) Carnes was born July 28, 1921 in Tabor, Iowa. She died on Saturday, April 23, 2011 at the Red Oak Rehab & Care Center, Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 89 years, 8 months and 26 days.

Dorothy was the fifth of twelve children and a twin to her brother Dick. She graduated from Tabor High School in the class of 1941. Dorothy secretly married Carl Edie on June 3, 1940 in Rock Port, Missouri. The marriage was secret so that Dorothy could finish high school in Tabor. They lived in the Emerson, Malvern and Hastings area before making their home in Stanton in 1948, where she lived most of her life. Dorothy worked as a nurse's aid at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital for many years, and also as a Home Health aid later in life. An avid seamstress and cook, Dorothy also loved going dancing on Saturday nights with Carl to hear area country bands and enjoy time with friends. She was also a longtime member of the Worthwhile Club in Stanton and enjoyed many coffee parties there.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Kelly and Carrie Carnes; husband, Carl Edie on January 24, 1988; sisters: Edna Severn, Bessie Severn, Ruth Ann Chaney and Francis Keeton; and brothers: Louis Carnes, Kenneth Carnes, Dick Carnes, Robert Carnes, Walter Carnes and Dennis Carnes.

Dorothy is survived by her son, Larry Edie and wife Venita of Red Oak, IA; daughters: Carla Rydberg and husband Don of Essex, IA and Sandy Hansen and husband Don of Shenandoah, IA; six grandchildren: Jeff Olson and wife Wendy of Overland Park, KS; Doug Olson and wife Patty of Syracuse, UT; Cheri Lass and husband Tim of Urbandale, IA; Jennifer Elarton and husband Randy of Red Oak, IA; Melissa Ringgenberg and husband Jason of Overland Park, KS and Kelly Edie of Red Oak, IA; 15 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Kelly "Hank" Carnes Jr. and wife Audrey of Winter Park, FL; and sisters-in-law: Donna Carnes of Coppell, TX; Nellie Carnes of Springfield, MO and Lucille Van Syoc of Bellevue, NE; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Celebration of Life Service, Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at 1:00 p.m.,at the First Christian Church, Red Oak, Iowa, A private burial with the family present will be held in the North Grove Cemetery, Emerson, IA, Rev. JoAnn Thomas, Officiating

Memorials to Heartland Hospice, First Christian Church of Red Oak, or the Stanton Friends Project Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

James Robert Carmichael

James Robert Carmichael, age 81 of Ft. Myers, Florida, was born June 17, 1929 in Montgomery County, Iowa to George W. Carmichael and Ruth Elizabeth (King) Carmichael and died March 16 at 9:20 pm in Ft. Myers, Florida.

Bob grew up on the family farm 4 1/2 miles Northeast of Villisca, Iowa and graduated from Villisca High School in 1947. He attended Tarkio College, Tarkio, Missouri and Simpson College, Indianola, Iowa. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950 and served 42 months on active duty. He last duty station was at the Far East Air Command Headquarters, Tokyo, Japan during the Korean Conflict. He married Betty Jane Stratton on June 6, 1954. He then attended the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Bob was a consummate salesman and strived to be professional and fair in all his dealings with people. He stressed honesty and integrity and service to others throughout his lifetime. He spent 10 years as a Sales Supervisor with the Cornhusker Motor club (AAA) in Nebraska. Real Estate and financial investments became the focus of the major part of his career. He was a licensed Real Estate salesman for 40 years. He was the President of an NASD Securities firm in Omaha for 2 years and the President of BC Investments, Inc. in Lincoln, Nebraska for 11 years. In Florida since 1985, he raised investment capital for the purchase of land and for initial funding for start-up companies as well as other investment opportunities. He always had a project on his desk and his interests were many and varied.

Bob loved people and could talk to anyone because he was genuinely interested in them. He was a charter member of The Church of the Cross - formerly the Pilgrims Church - in Ft. Myers. He was a member of a Kiwanis Club in Ft. Myers and served as its President in 1988. Bob enjoyed all sports, but only participated in basketball in high school and college and at golf ever after; although never more than as a hacker. He loved playing golf with Betty and his children. Bob was an avid reader as well as a fan of crossword puzzles. He worked them wherever he found one unworked. Bob had friends all over the USA and Canada and counted them as his most precious possessions. Bob loved people, but his family was always the center of his life.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, in August of 1995, by his father, George W. Carmichael, the very next day in August of 1995 and by his mother, Ruth E. Carmichael who passed away on December 15, 2003. He is survived by his children; Cristie S. Carmichael , Ft. Myers, Florida, Jeffrey C. Carmichael, Ft. Myers, Florida and by Dr. Joel P. Carmichael and wife, Cheryl who are the parents of Bob's three granddaughters, Kelsey and her husband, Scott McGregor and their daughter Mycah, McKenzie and Whitney. Bob leaves many relatives and scores of friends whom he loved very much.

Memorial Services will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, March 19 at The Church of the Cross, 13500 Freshman Lane, Ft. Myers, FL 33912, (239) 768-2188.

Wilma Rowe Auten

Wilma Rowe Auten was born Aug 11, 1926 in Sheridan, Missouri, to Oakley and Anna Pearl (Barber) Rowe.

She was married December 11, 1945, to Otis Auten. The couple farmed several places until settling in the Bethesda area. During this time Wilma was active with the farm and chores. She helped Otis and also tended to the garden and canned the vegetables. Wilma took care of the chickens and cooked for the family. Her special interest was quilting.

Later in life she became a nurse’s aide and worked for several years at Stanton Care Center. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Wilma always made her grandchildren feel special, appreciated and loved.

Wilma passed away Friday, April 15, 2011 at Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa, at the age of 84. She was preceded in death by her husband, Otis; parents Oakley and Anna Rowe; daughter Barbara Jean Auten; great grandson Tre Auten; sister Donna Pearl Berg; brother Roy Rowe and sister-in-law Mona Rowe.

She is survived by children: Russell Auten of Topeka, KS, Dewain Auten and wife Lynne of Omaha, NE, Larry Auten and wife Vickie of Clarinda, Mary Ann Richardson and husband Bill of Yorktown, IA, Linda Stouder and husband Larry of Malvern, IA, and Rick Auten and wife Mary Jane of Bethesda, IA; nineteen grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren; brothers Dale Rowe and wife Barbara of Sheridan, MO, Wilbur Rowe and wife Patty of Bedford, IA, Raymond Rowe of Phoenix, AZ; and sister-in-law Marion Rowe of Sheridan, MO.

Funeral services for Wilma Auten, 84 of Red Oak formerly of Stanton and Bethesda, were held 10:30 Tuesday, April 19 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda with interment at Clarinda Cemetery. Memorials in memory of Wilma may be given to a fund established in her name. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Janet Kay Higgins Murphy

A Celebration of Life service for Janet Kay Murphy (Higgins), wife of Lawrence J. Murphy and daughter of Kenneth and Audrea Higgins, formerly of Villisca, is scheduled for 16 March, at 2:00 p.m. at the Villisca United Methodist Church. Janet passed away on December 2, 2010, in Tucson Arizona.

Howard B. Peterson, the son of Edwin C. and Julia A. (Wigg) Peterson was born September 22, 1920 west of Morton Mills in Washington Township of Montgomery County, Iowa. He passed away on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at the Good Samaritan Society, Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 90 years, 5 months and 7 days.

Howard was six months old when his family moved to a farm west of Strand. For over 84 years, Howard lived on and famed the family farm, until 2004 when he became a resident of Good Samaritan Society in Red Oak. Howard was baptized at the Strand Lutheran Church and attended Hobson Country School. He became a member of the Sciola Church where he was one of the pianists, and later a member of the Morton Mills Church. Howard touched many lives for over 50 years as a Sunday school teacher. He held a special place in his heart for dogs, especially his dog Molly. Howard loved his nieces and nephews and was always willing to help them.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters: Inez Peterson, Erma Sanders and May Doll; nephews: Orin Doll, Lee Doll, Paul Eugene Doll, Galen Doll and Patrick O'Keefe; and niece: Darlene Sanders O'Keffe.

Howard is survived by nieces: Mary Baker of Stanton, IA; Ellen Havens of Villisca, IA; Joyce Cherry of Missouri Valley, IA; Eula Hiatt and Carol Graham both of Council Bluffs, IA; great-nieces & nephews; great-great-nieces & nephews; along with other relatives and friends.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at Morton Mills Church; Burial at the Strand Cemetery, Adams County, IA; Rev. Fred Bryson, Officiating

A memorial is being established in Howard's name.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com. Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Donna Glee Weston was born on January 29, 1933, the daughter of Charles Robert Hensel and Dorothy Mae Starlin Hensel. She was born at home in the rural Grant area. She attended the Science Vale Country School and finished 8th grade at Grant. She completed her high school education in Villisca graduating in the class of 1950. She was united in marriage to Teddy J. Weston on September 9, 1951. Six children were born to this union: Robert Dean, Roxanna Rae, Rebecca June, Teresa Lynn, George Rodney and Cynthia May. They lived near Grant all their married life.

Donna enjoyed being a housewife and mother for her family. While her children were growing up she upholstered furniture, sewed for Bordeaux in Clarinda, and worked at Delong’s Sportswear, retiring at 65.

After retirement, she worked with the Grant Community Preservationist Group to restore the Masonic Lodge. She served as their president for several years.

She enjoyed working in her yard with her flowers and bird watching. She was hooked on quilting after she made her first quilt for a fund raiser. She and Teddy attended the Country Music Jams where she would sing and he would play the guitar.

Donna is survived by her husband of 59 years Teddy Weston of Grant; her children: Robert (Georgia) Weston of Edgewood, New Mexico; Roxanna (Gail) Peterson of Creston; Rebecca (David) Westover of Grant; Teresa Knudson of Omaha, Nebraska; George (Laura) Weston of Elliott; and Cynthia (Wallace) Harvey of Topeka, Kansas; grandchildren: Robert Weston, Wennifer Duskus, Juliette Weston, Jeremie Peterson, Jodie Heinemann, Jesse Westover, Jude Westover, Callie Westover, Nathan Knudson, Colby Weston, Jebediah Weston, Madeleine Weston, Gwendolyn Weston, Jennifer Eblen, Tiffany Murchison, and Jessica Cooper; 25 great grandchildren; brother Robert (Doris Jean) Hensel of Atlantic; sister Jacky (Bob) Samuelson of Clarinda; sister-in-law Peggy Weston of Grant; and brother-in-law Lawrence Foote of Red Oak and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Mona Delfs.

Wolfe Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Rita Joan Kasha, 57, passed away Thursday, February 10, 2011. She was born in Corning, Iowa on April 25, 1953 the daughter of Keith M. Gourley and Clara L. Hefflefinger Gourley. She graduated from Villisca Community High School in 1972 and attended Iowa Western Community College earning both an Associate of Arts degree and a secretarial degree.

Rita was united in marriage to Henry E. Kasha on November 20, 1976 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Villisca, Iowa. Their marriage was blessed with two sons, Ted and Phillip. Rita worked as a secretary and bookkeeper for Kasha’s Garage and for the farming operation. She was active in her community serving for several years as coordinator for Villisca Soccer, as manager of the Villisca swimming pool and as a long-time member of the Villisca Theater Board.

She is survived by her husband Henry Kasha; children: Ted Kasha of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Phillip Kasha and wife Brittney of Villisca; grandson Jacob Kasha of Villisca; mother Clara Gourley of Villisca; brothers: Wendell Gourley and wife Jeannine of Stanton and Ray Gourley of Omaha, Nebraska; sister Kathy Meier and husband Larry of Niobrara, Nebraska; uncle Roland Gourley of Corning; mother-in-law Patricia Kasha of Villisca; brothers-in-law James Kasha of Villisca and Patrick Kasha of Portland, Oregon; and sister-in-law Frieda Leasia of Portland, Oregon.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents Robert and Theola Gourley and Lester and Mildred Hefflefinger, her father Keith Gourley, and her father-in-law Vlatimer Kasha.

Marvin Eugene Focht

Marvin Eugene Focht, the son of Fred and Belva Irene (Gourley) Focht was born August 12, 1931 in northeast Montgomery County, Iowa. He passed away on February 1, 2011 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 79 years, 5 days and 20 days, after a 24 month courageous and hard fought battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Marvin grew up in northeast Montgomery County graduating from Villisca High School in l948. Marvin entered active duty in the U. S. Army on January 24, l952 during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany during his active enlistment. After leaving active duty, he joined the Army Reserves and served in Stanton, Creston, Council Bluffs, Omaha, Sioux City and Des Moines. In 1967, he was recognized by the Des Moines Register for Outstanding Achievement as the U. S. Army Reservist of the Year for the State of Iowa. Marvin was qualified in Infantry, Quarter Master, Inspector General and Finance, and retired after 33 years with the rank of Colonel.

Upon leaving active duty on December 31, 1953, Marvin started his farming career near Wallin, Iowa. Marvin was united in marriage to Barbara Linn on November 24, 1957 in Red Oak. In the late 70's and early 80's their sons, Mark and Rod joined the family farming operation. With their help, they built a long lasting family farming operation that now includes some of Marvin's grandsons. Marvin was very actively involved in this operation until 2011 and being a good farmer was one of his greatest passions in life. Marvin loved watching his children and grandchildren in all of their sporting events. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and also enjoyed hunting and his dogs.

While involved in the farming operation, Marvin also took a very active role in local, county and regional boards and organizations. Some of the boards that he served on included the Tabor Lutheran Church, Stanton School Board, the Stanton COOP, 33 years on Southwest Iowa REC, East Central Iowa CIPCO, Iowa Area Development and 17 years on the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital board. In many instances, Marvin took a leadership role on these boards and often served as chairman of these organizations.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, sister LaVonne, and daughter-in-law LaDonna Focht.

Marvin is survived by his wife of 53 years Barbara of Villisca, IA; sons: Jeff (wife Nora) of Omaha, NE; Mark (special friend Michelle) of Villisca, IA; Rod of Stanton, IA; and daughter Sue Reynolds (husband Dennis) of Griswold, IA; sister Janice Lewis (husband Dwight) of Villisca, IA; grandchildren: Andrew Focht (wife Karla), Aaron Focht (special friend Rachelle), Ryan Focht (special friend Jennifer), Amanda, Grant, Greg and Ally Focht and Dakota Reynolds; step-grandchildren: Bryan Leary (wife Andrea), Amanda and Drew; great-grandchild Lilly Focht; step-great-grandchildren: Riley, Karlee and Aubree Leary; nieces and nephews, many friends and his special dog, Charlee.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 4, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. at Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Stanton, Iowa. Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli and Rev. Gordon Scott, Officiating
Private Family Burial will take place at 4:00 p.m. at the Mortons Mill Cemetery with Military Rites by the American Legion Ernie Johnson Post #406 of Stanton.

Visitation with the family will be held Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Stanton.

Memorials can be directed to the Tabor Lutheran Church, Montgomery County Memorial Hospital Foundation, or Fire & Rescue in Stanton, Villisca or Grant.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements, Red Oak, Iowa

Janet Kay Higgins Murphy

Janet Kay Murphy (Higgins) entered in to eternal rest at the Kindred Hospital in Tucson Arizona on Dec 2, 2010 succumbing to complications from pneumonia and COPD. Janet, wife of Lawrence J. Murphy and daughter of Kenneth and Audrea Higgins, all of Sierra Vista, Arizona was born on 16 September 1943 at Clarinda Iowa.

Janet grew up in Villisca Iowa attending elementary, junior high and high school there until her marriage to Larry on 2 Oct 1959 in Oakland California. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2009. Janet played basketball, twirled baton in the High School marching band and worked at the D&J Drive Inn in Villisca while she was a teenager. Upon their return to Villisca, she completed her GED degree and over the years raised three children, all of which survive her. They are Patrick Murphy of Colorado Springs, Co; Kelly Murphy of Sierra Vista, AZ and Darin Murphy of Des Moines, Ia.

Janet was a devoted Mother, wife and loving and thoughtful grandmother. She made every house they lived in into a loving and heartwarming home. She always enjoyed the company of others and was a great conversationalist. Janet and Larry lived in Villisca, Omaha, Corning, Greenfield, Guthrie Center, and Des Moines Iowa and for the past 10 years Sierra Vista. At each and every location Janet built relationships and lasting friendships. She was an accomplished piano player and for many years in Des Moines taught piano to students. While living in Des Moines she received her real estate license and enjoyed listing and selling homes for people in the Des Moines area while employed by Iowa Realty.

Janet loved music, especially Elvis Presley, her hot tub, playing golf and bowling. She was an avid and fervent supporter of the Iowa Hawkeye's, never wavering from her loyalty. Her most recent and heartfelt endeavor was crocheting baby clothing for Stitches FromThe Heart, a program for premature babies born in hospitals and based in California.

In addition to those mentioned above, Jan as she liked to be called, is survived by her two brothers, David (Jeanette) of Sierra Vista and Michael (Louann) of Caballo,NM, 8 grandchildren, 6 great grand children and three nephews.

Memorial services are to be scheduled for next spring in Iowa. No local services will be conducted. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in Jan's name to the American Lung Association or the state affiliate. Condolences sent to the Jan Murphy Family, 3833 Loma Ventosa, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635.

Marlin D. Gunderman

Marlin Dale Gunderman passed away on September 16, 2010 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Marlin was born October 12, 1920 in Villisca, Iowa. On December 24, 1943 in San Diego, California, he married Wanda Madalene Benford who preceded him in death on September 28, 1992. To this union were born three daughters: Deanne K. Peer, Indianapolis, Indiana; Christine D. Gunderman, Jackson Hole, Wyoming; and Deborah L. Gunderman, Albuquerque, New Mexico. His two grandchildren are Lisa R. Gunderman, Québec City, Canada and Kenny E. Gunderman, Maplewood, Minnesota. His four great-grandchildren are Félix J. Huppé and Nicolas O. Huppé, Québec City, Canada; and Delilah R. Gunderman and Penelope J. Gunderman, Maplewood, Minnesota. His nieces are Carol Ann Roth Dumpert, Johnson Lake, Nebraska and Judith Straw, Hampton, New Hampshire.

He attended the University of Iowa after graduating from Villisca High School. He left college the last semester of his senior year and joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation to serve his country during World War II. While serving in San Diego, California he met and married Wanda. She also worked for the FBI. They were subsequently assigned to Washington D.C. and Massachusetts. After the war he continued to work for the FBI in Chicago and New York City until 1947 when he moved his family back to Villisca and bought the Gunderman Insurance Agency and Real Estate from his parents, Lorenz and Ethel Gunderman.

He became a member of the Villisca Presbyterian Church as a young boy. When he returned to Villisca, the Gunderman family became active in all phases of the church. He enjoyed serving as a Deacon, an Elder, and taught the High School Sunday School class for years. Often he served as Lay Minister not only for the Presbyterian Church but also for several area churches. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, served on the Villisca Light Plant board, the Villisca Building and Loan Association, the Nodaway Valley Packing Company, was president of the Mutual Insurance Agents of Iowa (Professional Insurance Agents of Iowa), and was Justice of the Peace for many years. He loved Villisca and was devoted to contributing to its mid-western values. Marlin attained a lifelong goal by graduating from the University of Iowa in December 1978.

In 1987 Marlin and Wanda moved to Sun City West, Arizona where he was active in his homeowners association and enjoyed oil painting and dancing. He met Marjorie Basset, Sun City West, Arizona in 1993. She was his dear friend and companion for 17 years. In November 2008 he moved to Indianapolis to live with his daughter, Dee Peer.

Marlin was a friend to many people and treasured these friendships. He had a deep reverence for his Lord and a profound respect for life. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. Memorials may be made to Villisca Presbyterian Church, 109 South 3rd Avenue, Villisca, IA 50864.

Paul S. Smith

Paul S. Smith, age 95, of Villisca, Iowa, passed away Friday, October 22, 2010 at the Villisca Good Samaritan Center. Paul Samuel Smith was born July 23, 1915 in Lewis, Iowa the son of Charles "Arthur" and Nora Faye (Neal) Smith. He was raised in the Villisca area and attended Villisca Schools.

Paul was united in marriage to Ruth Barnes on April 10, 1939. Paul started his working career in Villisca with Pierson Trucking and later Sierp Oil. He also served in the Iowa Army National Guard in Villisca for 7 years. Paul also worked in Red Oak at the Furnace Factory until it closed in 1954 at which time he moved to Turlock, California for one year before moving to Pomona, California in 1955. He worked for General Dynamics from 1955 until retirement in 1977. He also retired as Union Secretary for the International Associates Machinists and Aerospace Workers Union. After "retirement" Paul worked for a tree trimmer and as a guard for the Newman Elementary School in Chino, California from 1979 until 2001 when he had to retire at the age of 85. Paul moved back to Villisca in 2001. Paul enjoyed working, bowling, bingo, card games, word puzzles, baseball, and reading, especially the Bible. He was a member of the Advent Christian Church and the Red Oak Eagles Lodge.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his wife: Ruth on May 26, 1969; infant son: Wayne Leroy in 1944; brothers: Don, Jim, Keith, and Elmer; and sister: Marjorie Smith Wilson. Survivors include his children: Patricia Phillips and husband Bill of Folsom, CA; Pamela Jackson and husband Larry of Chino Valley, CA; and Dale Smith of Vancouver, WA; grandchildren: Robert Phillips and wife Everiza of Folsom, CA; Ronald Phillips of Folsom, CA; Crystal McDaniels of Chino Valley, CA; Dale Smith, Jr. and wife Tish, Sharleen Johnson and husband Travis, and Tricia Pamela Smith all of Vancouver, WA; and a special granddaughter: Nicole Cisneros; many great grandchildren; brother: Glendon Smith and wife Wendy of Port Richey, FL; sisters-in-law: Louise Smith of Red Oak, IA and Lavonne Smith of Dunedin, FL; many nieces and nephews including a special niece: Mable McCuen of Stanton, IA; and other relatives and friends.

Graveside funeral services will be held 2 PM Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at the Evergreen Cemetery in Red Oak with Pastor Darren Brisco officiating. Visitation with the family will start at 1 PM Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with family and friends going to the cemetery in procession. Memorials are suggested to the Advent Christian Church or the Villisca Good Samaritan Center Activity Fund.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Barbara Kay Gray

Barbara Kay Gray was born August 29, 1957, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, the daughter of Chesley “Nick” Yates and Hazel Mary (Lumsden) Yates. She graduated from Fort Dodge High School in 1975.

Barb was born with business sense. She worked in the accounting office for IBP in Fort Dodge before moving to Villisca in 1981 to be near her sister. She worked at the Scandia Savings & Loan. She also worked in the office for White House Lawns and for Red Oak Machine before going to work at The Red Oak Express where she handled their circulation department and later moved into their sales department. She always had high expectations and quotas for herself and her departments.

In June 2000 she married Randy Gray at the Advent Christian Church in Villisca, Iowa.

She is survived by her husband Randy Gray of Villisca; sons Jeremy (Lisa) Froisland of Cook, Nebraska and Cassidy Froisland of Glenwood, Iowa; grandchildren Blake, Brianna, and Brendon Froisland of Cook, Nebraska; sisters Trish Graham (Wayne Shough) of Villisca and Pennie (Steve) Rhoades of Gibsonton, Florida; brothers Maurice Alstott of Henderson, Nevada and Gary Yates of Port Orange, Florida; nieces and nephews Jeff Graham, Shawn Graham, Mike Graham, Brian Rosch, Kim Adcock, Jason Rhoades, Brandon Rhoades, Maurice Alstott, Jr., Lorrie Gutierrez, and Shana Yates; and many other family and friends.

Funeral services were held 2 p.m. Sunday, October 24, 2010 at Wolfe Funeral Home, Villisca, Iowa, with Pastor Carol Owen officiating. Interment was at Villisca Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to Special Olympics, Iowa Region. Wolfe Funeral Home, Villisca, was in charge of arrangements. www.WolfeVillisca.com

Pamela Ann Esterlie

Pamela Ann Easterlie was born June 6, 1949 in Stuart, Iowa to Robert and Melba (little) Compton. She graduated from Stuart High School and then the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelors in Education degree.

Pam worked for Snelling Temp Agency in an office position when she met Gary and they were married July 2, 1975. They moved to the farm northeast of Villisca where Pam still resided. Pam and Gary owned/operated the Grant Café in Grant, Iowa and later raised exotic birds. They provided the birds for the Villisca Good Samaritan Aviary and Pam took care of those birds for quite some time. She was an active member of the Strand Evangelical Lutheran Church and also active with the Morton Mills Community Church. Over the years, Pam kept busy with embroidering towels and baby quilts. In the 1990’s she began working with special needs children as an in-home provider and did so until Monday, October 4. The following day she was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and she passed away Friday, October 8, 2010 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Melba Compton, and husband Gary.

She is survived by her son Lee Easterlie and wife Renee of Maryville, Missouri; aunt and uncle Ernie and Vivian Little of Menlo, Iowa; cousins Steven and Laura Little of Stuart, Iowa; and many relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Pam were held Wednesday, October 13, 2010, and the Strand Evangelical Lutheran Church with burial following at the Strand Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the family. Wolfe Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Lawrence John Blume

Lawrence John Blume was born February 16, 1922 on the family farm southwest of Clarinda to Edward and Minnie Blume. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church where he was a lifelong member. Lawrence worked for local famers until enlisting in the Army where he trained at Fort Polk in Louisiana. He volunteered for the Army Air Corp. and became a crew chief plane mechanic in the South Pacific.

After being discharged from the service, Lawrence met Lois Nadine Wagaman and they were married on February 22, 1947. As a couple they purchased a farm northeast of College Springs where they raised their family and currently reside. Lawrence was a 60 year member of the American Hereford/Polled Hereford Association and also a member of the Page County Cattlemen being recognized in 2009 as “Long Time Cattleman” of the year. He farrowed and raised about 1000 market hogs per year and by the MoorMan’s Feed Company Lawrence was recognized as a Master Pork Producer. He was also active in the community as a 4-H leader, Farm Bureau Board Member, church usher and the VFW. He annually attended the Page County Fair after his 4-H days of showing pigs.

Lawrence and Nadine taught their children the value of independence, self-sufficiency and hard work.

Today the grandchildren and great grandchildren consider it a treat to visit the farm. Only time will fill the void by his passing- Love you Lawrence we’ll still ring the dinner bell for you.

Lawrence passed away October 7, 2010 at his residence in Clarinda. He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings Edward Blume, Victor Blume, Gerald Blume, Allene Wagoner; sisters in law: Louise Nygard and husband Norman, Evelyn Williams and husband Wally.

Surviving Lawrence is his wife of 63 years Nadine Blume; children Michael Blume of College Springs, IA, Ronald Blume of Colorado Springs, CO, Marcia Blume of Tuscon, AZ and Norman Blume and wife Robbie of Valentine, NE; sister-in-law Joan Blume of Clarinda, IA; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Graveside services were held Saturday, October 9, 2010 at Arlington Cemetery, rural Villisca. Memorials are suggested to a fund to be established. The Tradition of Walker-Merrick Funeral Home provided arrangements. www.WalkerMerrick.com

Pamela Jean Guenther

Pamela Jean Guenther, 64, passed away September 30, 2010 at Mercy Hospice in Johnston.

Pamela was born August 30, 1946 in Council Bluffs, IA to Avery and Violet Ayers. She graduated from Villisca High School and has lived in Des Moines for 40 years. Pamela was currently employed as an Assistant Accounting Manager at Electronic Engineering where she has been employed for the past ten years. She was a member of Gold Wing Touring Assoc., Gold Wing Road Riders Assoc., Honda Riders Club of America and Mid America Cage Birds.

Pamela is survived by her husband Glenn; daughter, Paula (Joe) Carbine and her children, Alex, Mariah, Kila and Kennedy; daughter, Melissa (Tim) Walk and her children, Seth and Tyler; son, Chris Guenther and his children, Breanna and Dyani; sister, Ardith (Larry) Branan; and her brothers, Thomas (Mitzy) Solt, Tim (Donna) Solt and Steven Lee Solt. She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 5, 2010 at Hamilton's Funeral Home, 605 Lyon St. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League.

Thomas Emory Haley was born September 30, 1945, in Taylor County Iowa. He was the son of Delmar Dale Haley and Lois “Jean” Patton Haley. He graduated from the Villisca High School in 1963. On July 26, 1963 he was united in marriage to Janet Greenfield. After their marriage, he began farming, doing custom baling and combine work for area farmers. He was a substitute rural mail carrier for Nodaway, an over-the-road truck driver and a gravel truck hauler for Schildberg’s Construction. His health forced him to retire in 2007.

Tom filled his spare time by playing baseball on the Nodaway town team, fishing, hunting, playing cards (especially cribbage) and reading westerns. He was a John Deere man through and through.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, infant daughters Carey Haley and Jody Haley, and brother Donald Haley. He is survived by his wife Janet Haley of Nodaway, daughter Jenny (Troy) Gilleland of Villisca, son Jason (Chris) of Kansas City, Missouri, granddaughters Haley (Tom) Gourley and Renae Gilleland all of Villisca, brother David (Betty) Haley of Federal Way, Washington, sister-in-law Linda Haley of Nodaway, extended family members Franklin and Ruby Walter of Corning, many aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Linda Heard

Memorial services for Linda Heard, age 62, of Villisca, Iowa, who entered into peace Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at Good Samaritan Care Center, Villisca, Iowa following a courageous battle with cancer, were held Friday, June 11, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa with Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with family was held Thursday; June10, 5-7 p.m. at the church. Burial was in the Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Villisca Yard and Garden Club, Villisca Fire and Rescue or the Villisca Ambulance. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Linda Jane Heard was born April 23, 1948 in Clarinda, Iowa to Darwin Paul Kendrick and Gladys Irene (Vance) Kendrick. She grew up in Villisca and attended Villisca schools graduating from Villisca High School in 1966. Linda kept in touch with her classmates and enjoyed the class of "66 "get togethers". She attended Clarinda Junior College for one year. She was united in marriage on February 10, 1968 at the Villisca Presbyterian Church to Gayle Heard. They were blessed with three daughters, Staci Leigh, Darci Lynn, and Misti Gayle.

Linda and Gayle owned and operated the Kendrick and Heard Plumbing and Heating business for forty years and she was the bookkeeper for the business. She was very active with the Villisca Chamber of Commerce promoting Villisca and a supporter (booster) of Villisca athletics. Linda always enjoyed watching her daughters and grandkids ballgames and activities.

Linda was a member of the Villisca Presbyterian Church and enjoyed being a member of the church bell choir. She was treasurer of the Presbyterian Women for thirty two years. Linda was also a member of PEO and the Villisca Yard and Garden Committee. She enjoyed her flower gardens and was especially proud of her prize Clematis. Quilting, crafting and painting were activities that Linda also enjoyed. She especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends at wiener roasts, picnics, fishing, going on Sunday drives and just visiting. A special time for Linda was the morning time with her grandkids before school.

Preceding Linda in death were her parents; parents-in-law, Otto and Alice Heard; sister-in-law, Janice Kendrick.

Left to cherish Linda's memory are her husband of forty two years Gayle Heard of Villisca, daughters, Staci Sunderman and husband Brad, Darci Poston and husband Jason, Misti Yates and husband Kyle all of Villisca; grandchildren, Damon Sunderman, Danica Sunderman, Hunter Poston, Karsyn Poston, Delaney Yates, Taylor Yates and Anistyn Poston; brother, Darwin Gene Kendrick of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas; brothers-in-law, Merrill and Janet Heard of Tabor, Iowa and Leo and Phyllis Heard of St. Charles, Iowa; nieces, nephews; other relatives and many special friends.

Linda will be remembered for her loving concern for others
and putting their needs first even in her times of struggle.
She will be greatly missed but her memory will live on in our hearts.

Eldon Stewart

Funeral services for Eldon Stewart, age 93, of the Siam, Iowa area, who entered into peace Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at Good Samaritan Care Center, Red Oak, Iowa were held Friday, May 7, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Loren Daly officiating. Visitation with the family was Thursday, May 6, 2010, 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial was in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Guss, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Open Door Mission. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Eldon Floyd Stewart was born January 26, 1917, to Joseph Albert (Bert) and Hattie Gant Stewart in the Bebout community southeast of Siam, Iowa. He was the youngest of seven children; three of whom died in childhood.

Eldon grew up in the Siam area. He was baptized at the age of eleven and continued to serve the Lord at the Siam Church of Christ, which his grandfather, Sam Gant, helped build. Six generations have attended worship services at this church.
He graduated high school in 1934 from Hopkins, Missouri. After graduation, he began his farming career, which he continued until retirement.

On May 5, 1944, Eldon married Violet Crowell of New Market, who was teaching at the Bebout School near his family farm. They met while he attended his first year of high school in New Market. Later, they were blessed with two children, Roger and Linda.

After raising their family in the Siam area, Eldon and Violet moved to a farm southwest of Corning where he remained until an arsonist destroyed his home. In 2005, he moved to Halland Village where he maintained his residency until he entered Good Samaritan Care Facility for the last month of his life.

Eldon thoroughly enjoyed his family and friends. He was known for his love of writing and correspondence. Violet and Eldon enjoyed traveling, flowers, and the beauty of God's creation. He was known for seeing the beauty in others and enjoying even the little things in life.

Preceding him in death were his devoted wife, Violet; parents, Bert and Hattie Stewart; brothers, Samuel and LeRoy; sisters, Liefa Stewart, Anna Cooper, Almiria Renfro, and Bessie Lucas Maudlin Weddle; one granddaughter, Kimberlea Lynn Volkmar.

Eldon is survived by son, Roger and wife Susan of Stanton, IA; and daughter, Linda Volkmar of Santa Monica, CA. Roger and Susan's daughters are Shauna and husband Darin Seaman of Omaha, NE; Shalée and husband Josh Boyles of Waterloo, IA; ShaRee and husband Don Schnitker of Norwalk, IA. Linda's children are Michelle and husband Sean Sahlstrom of Minneapolis, MN; Aaron and wife Becca Volkmar of Boone, IA; Nathan Volkmar of Minneapolis, MN. Eldon also has nine great-grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.

Eldon firmly believed the only way one could ever enter the gates of Heaven would be because of the grace he or she had been given by Jesus Christ.

Robert C. Andrew

Robert C. Andrew, age 73, of Mesa, Arizona formerly of Des Moines, Iowa passed away Saturday, April 24, 2010 at his residence in Mesa. Robert Clinton Andrew was born July 30, 1936 on a farm near Villisca, Iowa the son of Evan Jerry and Letha Emily Andrew. He graduated from Villisca High School in 1956 and was united in marriage to Joan Durham on September 26, 1956 in Red Oak, Iowa. To this union three children were born: Deborah, Rodney, and Doreen. Robert lived many years in Des Moines, Iowa where he worked for Bob Brown Auto Center. After retiring from the car dealership, he owned and operated Andy's Lounge in Bondurant, Iowa. He was united in marriage to Donna Augustine on March 21, 1996 in Bondurant, Iowa. They moved to Mesa, Arizona where Bob owned and operated an appliance store retiring in 2004. Robert enjoyed NASCAR Racing, Football, Basketball, and Baseball. He was a member of the Bondurant Christian Church and in his younger years served in the Iowa Army National Guard.

Preceding him in death were his parents and daughter: Deborah Jarman. Survivors include his wife: Donna Andrew of Mesa, Arizona; children: Rodney Andrew and wife Linda of Red Oak, Iowa and Doreen Andrew of Des Moines, Iowa; the children's mother: Joan Andrew of Des Moines, Iowa; grandson: Aaron Andrew of Newton, Iowa; brother: Willard Andrew and wife Margaret of Clarinda, Iowa; sister: Dorothy McAlpin of Kansas City, Missouri; many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Graveside funeral services will be held 11 AM Friday, April 30, 2010 at the Maple Grove Cemetery at Guss, Iowa with Rev. John Clark officiating. There will be open visitation at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak, Iowa on Thursday afternoon. Memorials are suggested to the family.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel of Red Oak, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Phyllis Whitney

Funeral services for Phyllis Whitney, age 81, of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Friday, April 23, 2010 at Westridge Care and Rehab Center, Clarinda, Iowa were held Tuesday, April 27, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Robert Keefer officiating. Burial was in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa Memorials may be directed to the Glenn Miller Birthplace Society or to the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Phyllis Jean Whitney was born November 20, 1928 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the daughter of Grear Doyle Draper and Lulu Imogene (Lowe) Draper. Phyllis graduated from Villisca High School in 1946 and with an Associates Degree from Clarinda Junior College in Clarinda, Iowa. During her college years, she was Editor of the Blue Jay Flyer, school newspaper. She also worked two jobs while working her way through college. She was united in marriage on May 27, 1951 to Grant Whitney at the Villisca Methodist Church. They were blessed with six children, Steven, Michael, Kathleen, Craig, Kenneth and Richard.

Phyllis considered her role of mother to be her most important job. In addition to caring for her husband and children, her employment included the Honeyman's Drug Store in Villisca, Hawley's Drug Store in Clarinda, Clarinda Herald Journal, the Page County Clerk's office, Casey's and Walker-Merrick Funeral Home.

Phyllis spent many hours volunteering for various organizations in the community, the Glenn Miller Society, the Red Cross, the Heart Association, the Nodaway Valley Museum and the Clarinda Library. In 2008, she was awarded a Lifetime Membership in the Glenn Miller Society for her many hours of volunteering and giving tours at the Glenn Miller Birthplace.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Grant Whitney; son, Steven Whitney (4/21/1973); sister, Sharon Wagaman and husband Davis; sister-in-law, Lois Alice Laverty and husband Kenneth.

Left to cherish Phyllis' memory are her children, Michael Whitney and wife Joyce, Lincoln, Nebraska, Kathleen Cole and husband Roger, Burlington, Kansas, Craig Whitney and wife Deana, Jackson, Tennessee, Kenneth Whitney and wife Jennifer, Wichita, Kansas, Richard Whitney and wife Sarah, Ankeny, Iowa; grandchildren, Christopher Whitney and Justin Whitney of Lincoln, Nebraska, Dennis Cole and wife Jennifer of Clarinda, Iowa, Heather Preston and husband Vincent of Waukee, Iowa, Erin Pape and husband Casey of Davenport, Iowa, Eric Whitney and wife Natalie of Omaha, Nebraska, Jessica Whitney and Steven Whitney of Jackson, Tennessee; great grandchildren, Adelyn Cole and Payten Pape; nieces; nephews and many friends.

Mildred attended school in Villisca and was the valedictorian of her graduating class of 1938. She received her teaching certificate and taught at Gridley School, East Township #8. Prior to marriage Mildred worked several years in California and at Dunn’s 5 & 10 in Villisca. She married Howard Austin McClelland on October 13, 1948 at the Methodist Parsonage in Villisca. Mildred devoted her life to being a homemaker; raising their family of three daughters and one son. She enjoyed gardening, genealogy, sewing, bird watching, and the beautiful Iowa countryside.

Mildred is preceded in death by her parents.

Surviving Mildred are Austin, her loving husband of 61 years; children Joni McClelland and husband John McKean of Mulvane, KS, Sandi Kennedy of Clarksville, TN, Judy Duncan of Edmond, OK and Larry McClelland and wife Rhonda of Glenwood, IA; grandchildren Shaughn Kennedy and wife Angela of Olathe, KS, Ryan Kennedy and wife Tish of Clarksville, TN, Christopher Duncan of Mulvane, KS and Jonathan Duncan of Edmond, OK; great grandchildren Ella Kennedy, Christian Kennedy, Daylin Kennedy and Elijah Kennedy; brother Richard Bryson and wife Jessie of Tulsa, OK; sister Maxine Lewis of Villisca, Iowa; many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Larry Turpen

Funeral services for Larry Turpen, age 70, of Clarinda, Iowa, who passed away Sunday, April 4, 2010, rural Taylor County, Iowa as a result of a motorcycle accident were held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 8, 2010, at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend John Clark officiating. Visitation with the family will be held Wednesday, April 7 at the funeral home 5-7 p.m. Burial will be in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials may be given in his name. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Larry Joe Turpen was born October 21, 1939 in Clearmont, Missouri to Joseph Leonard Turpen and Opal Golda (Vulgamott) Turpen. Larry attended school Kindergarten through eighth grade in Clearmont. The family moved to Clarinda where he graduated from Clarinda High School in 1957. Larry and Greta McKinley have been together for thirty three years and were married February 11, 1994, at the First Christian Church, Clarinda, Iowa.

Larry worked for Leeson Sheet Metal for thirty one years, Black Plumbing and Heating for seven years and then opened Larry's Repair Service in 1999. He retired in 2007.

Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding his Harley, carpentry and family and friends. Larry loved to gather with friends to ride their motorcycles. He loved his dogs, Rusty and Tiny.

Preceding Larry in death were his parents, Joe and Opal.

Larry is survived by his wife Greta Turpen of Clarinda, Iowa; his children, Michael, Kim, Scott, Randy and Tammy; eleven grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren; sister, JoAnn Williams of Clarinda, Iowa; other relatives and many, many friends.

Larry will be greatly missed by his family and many friends but his memory will live on in their hearts forever.
May God grant comfort and peace to those that mourn his passing.

Harold Lewis Strange

Harold Lewis Strange, Sr. was born November 15, 1929, in Rockport, Missouri, the son of William Flower Strange and Bessie Lavonia (Huff) Strange. He had nine brothers and sisters.

Harold served in the Army during the Korean War (1951-1953). On November 15, 1956, he was united in marriage to Phyllis Ilene Frazier at the Baptist Church in Shenandoah, Iowa. He worked at the Snow White Laundry and Lake’s Nursery in Shenandoah. He enjoyed dancing, fishing, hunting, and the Minnesota Vikings.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; wife Phyllis; son Harold Strange, Jr.; brothers Oscar, Allen, Frank, and Bus; sisters Mary, Bessie, Eva, and Margaret; and great grandson Matthew Kimbro.

He is survived by his daughters Mary (Kent) Gage of Villisca, Vicki (Larry) Gardner of Salem, Virginia, Ilene Kovar of Roanoke, Virginia, and Patty (Sam) Kier of Shenandoah; grandchildren Patrick Ryan, Jeff Ryan, Kira Gage, Kathy Gage, Dixie (Shannon) Williams, Christopher Gardner, Cody Gardner, Brandy (Dean) Johnson, Brandon Gardner, Melissa (Luke) Dragoo, Kristan Kovar, Steven Nelson, Justin (April) Nelson, Curtis (Felcia) Nelson, Heather Nelson, Victoria Kimbro, Shawna ( William Cox) Strange, Tessa (Steve) Foster, and Joshua Strange; 24 great –grandchildren; sister Jane Evans of Clarinda; good friend Joe Philpott; many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Donald Edward Overman

Donald Edward Overman was born February 17, 1936 at Amsterdam, Missouri to Clarence Edward and Neoma June (McGuire) Overman. He passed away Thursday, February 11, 2010 at Duff's Friendship Villia, Nebraska City, at the age of 73.

Donald grew up around Villisca and Nodaway and was active in sports. He was married to Donna Kay Peach and they have two children: Craig Overman and Cindy Gammell. He was a family man cherishing his wife, children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Overman of Sidney, Iowa; children Craig and Cindy and their spouses and children; and sister, Wanda Kleindinst of Villisca, Iowa.

Memorial services were held Saturday, February 13, 2010 at Church of Christ in Sidney, Iowa with interment at Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca provided arrangements. www.WolfeVillisca.com

Anabelle White

Funeral services for Anabelle White, age 90, of Villisca, Iowa, who entered into peace Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa were held Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa with Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5-7 p.m. Monday, February 15 at the church. Burial was in the Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Villisca Methodist Church Organ Fund or to the UMW of Villisca.. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Janet Anabelle White was born April 28, 1919, in Mahaska County, Iowa to Charles Mortimer (Mort) Smith and Helene Bell (Hedge) Smith. She grew up in the Oskaloosa area with three brothers and two sisters. Anabelle graduated in 1937 from Oskaloosa High School and furthered her education with nursing and business training. She was united in marriage March 15, 1941, to Ora Willard White at Rose Hill, Iowa. They were blessed with one daughter, Doris.

Anabelle and Willard moved to their present home south of Villisca in 1941 and began farming. Anabelle was actively involved in the farming operation and the Iowa Angus Auxiliary and also was an officer of the National Angus Auxiliary. She was an active member of the United Methodist Church, Villisca; serving as organist for many years, was a Sunday School Teacher and an active member of the United Methodist Women organization. Anabelle was also a 4-H leader and member of Farm Bureau.

Anabelle had many interests and activities; she enjoyed her music, playing for many funeral and weddings through the years, sewing, reading, gardening and traveling.

Preceding Anabelle in death were her parents; husband, Willard (3/1/1996); brothers, Edgar C. Smith, Wilbur I. Smith; sisters, Martha Jane Lynn, Louise Smith; granddaughter-in-law, Merry Dick; great grandson, Elias Dick.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Doris Dick and husband Ramon of Villisca, Iowa; grandsons, Edouard Leighten-Dick and wife Heather of Amana, Iowa and Aaron Dick and wife Ann of Maplewood, Minnesota; great granddaughter, Eva Leighton-Dick; great grandsons, Kiefer and Ellis Dick; brother, Charles M. Smith and wife Martha of Alexandria, Virginia; brother-in-law, Robert Lynn and wife Sue of Oskaloosa, Iowa; nieces; nephews; and many friends.

Anabelle will be greatly missed by her family and friends;
her love and inspiration will live on through her family.
May God grant comfort and peace to those that mourn her passing.

RICHARD J. FASTENAU

Richard John Fastenau, 80, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2009 after a long battle with cancer. Funeral services were December 14, 2009 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 8301 Aurora Ave. Urbandale with interment in Resthaven Cemetery.

Richard was born in Clarinda, Iowa on November 26, 1929 to Henry and Elvira (Sunderman) Fastenau. He graduated from Villisca High School in 1947. After high school Richard entered the military and graduated flight school as a fighter pilot. He flew in theater at the end of the Korean War. Then he was stationed in Del Rio, Texas and served as a jet fighter pilot instructor. After retiring from active duty he later joined the Iowa Air National Guard serving in multiple capacities for over 15 years.

Richard married Elaine Harris on June 27, 1954 in Clarinda, Iowa. Upon returning from Texas they made their home in central Iowa. Richard graduated from Drake University in 1959. He started his business career at Univac and later co-founded Zytron, a successful microfilm business. He spent more than 25 years with the company as it expanded throughout the region. Upon retirement Richard continued to employ his business and financial skills to private consulting and volunteering his skills to serve his congregation and regional Lutheran Church. Richard, a life-long member of the Lutheran Church Missouri-Synod, was known for his steadfast faith and service to his church.

Richard is survived by Elaine, his wife of 55 years; son David and Michelle, daughter Marci and Mike Wilson, son Joel and Jean; seven grandchildren; and brothers Dewey and Dennis. He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Elvira, brother Emmett and sister Lyda.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to benefit Concordia Lutheran Seminary or Hospice of Central Iowa.

Edna Eileen Bell

Edna Eileen Bell, the daughter of J. Earl and Flossie (Harvey) Bylund was born May 9, 1918 in Audubon, Iowa. She passed away Friday, December 25, 2009 at the Good Samaritan Society of Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 91years, 7 months and 16 days.

Edna was raised in Coon Rapids and Audubon, Iowa. She was united in marriage to Irl R. Bell on February 14, 1937 in Audubon, Iowa. They lived in Ottosen, Iowa for years before moving to Red Oak in l956. In l973, Edna and Irl moved to Minden, Nebraska. Edna returned to Red Oak in l980. For 15 years, Edna worked for the dietary department at Montgomery County Memorial Hospital before her retirement. Edna was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Red Oak. She enjoyed spending time with the grandchildren. Edna was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter: Phyllis Poe; brothers: Raymond, Edward and Orville; and sister: Ida Meek.

Edna is survived by children: Lois Watnem and husband Allen of Humbolt, IA; Shirley Simpson of Wilmington, DE; Warren "Ricky" Bell and wife Bev of Cannon County, CA; Susan Carlson and husband Dennis of Red Oak, IA; John "Jack" Bell and wife Kathie of Red Oak, IA; Sheryl Franzen and husband Larry of Stanton, IA; 17 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; sister-in-law: Rose Bylund of Audubon, IA; nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held Thursday, December 31, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home. Burial in Evergreen Cemetery, Red Oak with Rev. Fred Pilecki, Officiating. Visitation with the family present Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home. Memorials to First United Methodist Church. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

James Fredrick

James Fredrick Schulz, 80, of Nodaway, Iowa, died Tuesday, December 8, 2009, at the family farm in Nodaway. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 12, 2009 at the Mount Calvary Lutheran Church. Pastor Jerome Wagoner officiated the service. A full military burial service took place at the Rock Island National Cemetery, Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island, IL on Wednesday, December 16th.

Born August 29th, 1929, in Burlington, Iowa, Jim was the son of the late Herbert Emil Albert and Grace Antoinette (Hingst) Schulz and stepmother Daisy Lillian (Salladay) Schulz. Jim attended Burlington High School and graduated in 1947 where he actively participated in football, basketball and baseball and was a member of the 1946 Burlington High School State Baseball Championship team. Jim attended Burlington Junior College and Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls, Iowa from 1947 to 1951. Jim participated in basketball at both schools where he was a member of the Junior College State and the North Central Conference Championship teams. He graduated from ISTC in June of 1951 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education and Social Studies.

On July 28, 1951, he was united in marriage to Marilyn J Cronwall at the Presbyterian Church, in Villisca, Iowa. They were married 58 years and raised three sons: Kurt, Jeffrey and Mitchel. Also, in 1951 he was drafted but selected to enlist in the United States Marine Corps; this was his military choice. Jim was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant after completing the United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate Screening Course. He retired from the United States Marine Corps Reserve after twenty years having attained the rank of Colonel.

Jim spent 38 years teaching physical education and coaching elementary, junior high and high school students in the Decorah and Bettendorf Community Schools. During the 36 years at Bettendorf, Jim was the head varsity baseball coach from 1964 to 1980 and served one year as president of the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association. Jim’s love and dedication to teaching was recognized and honored throughout his career. He received the “Educator of the Year Award” from the Bettendorf Junior Chamber of Commerce, “Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year” award from the Iowa American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance and received the “Golden Apple” for outstanding educators in the Iowa Quad Cities schools. In addition, Jim was elected as an alderman to the Bettendorf City Council in 1967 and 1969.

Jim retired from teaching in Bettendorf in 1995, but continued to serve 3 years as a coordinating instructor for practice teachers in physical education and health at St. Ambrose University. In 2001, Jim and Marilyn retired to the family Century Old Farm in Nodaway where Jim remained a life member to the Marine Corps Officers Association (now Marine Corps Reserve Association), Marine Corps League, National Education Association and American Legion ……. Semper Fi.

Jim had many interests in life which included: sports, education, reading, writing letters and politics, but first and foremost was his love and devotion to his family. His greatest joy was spending time with his nine grandkids. He is survived by his wife Marilyn: sons, Kurt (and wife Susan), Glenwood, Iowa and their children, Matthew and Wyatt; Jeff (and wife Pam), Pleasant Hill, Iowa and their children, Blaine, Linden, Danilo and Geovani; Mitch (and wife Lisa), Batavia, Illinois and their children, Ashley, Zachary and Abygail; a brother, Charles Schulz (and wife Peggy), Burlington, Iowa and nephews Burke and Chris Schulz and their families.

Memorial funds have been established in his name at the Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Alegent Health Mercy Hospital, Villisca EMS Association and Rescue, Adams County Rescue Services or memorial of choice.

Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca in charge of arrangements.

Nelle C. Palmquist

Nelle C. Palmquist, 95, passed away on December 15, 2009 at the home of her daughter in Iowa City. Her body will be cremated and a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Villisca, Iowa on Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 11:00 am. Visitation one hour before the service at St. Joseph’s.

Nelle was born December 30, 1913 to Con and Mary Reardon in Magnolia, Iowa. She was married to John W. Palmquist in Omaha on May 14, 1935. They moved to Villisca in 1938 where she and her husband John ran Palmquist Hardware. She was a homemaker and in later years managed the Ker-a-vor American Legion Club and the Iowa State Liquor store in Villisca. Nelle and John were active in the community. Both were instrumental in the founding of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in 1947. She was an avid golfer, card player, hostess and an accomplished seamstress. Family, friends and relatives always felt welcome in the Palmquist home.

Nelle moved to Iowa City in 1999 and was a parishioner at St. Patrick’s Church.
Nelle is survived by three daughters, Joan Jamison of Ankeny, IA, Janet Hoffey of Iowa City, Jeanne Schenk of Baytown, TX, and one son, Mark Palmquist (Patty) of Lilburn, GA. She has fifteen grandchildren and twenty-one great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, John, brothers, Tom, Jim, and Frank Reardon, sister, Margaret Weiler, and sons-in-law, Jerry Hoffey and Bruce Jamison.

Memorials may be sent to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Villisca, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Iowa City, or to the Iowa City Hospice.

Bertha M. "Betty" Confer

Bertha M. "Betty" Confer, age 73, of Red Oak, Iowa, passed away Sunday, December 6, 2009 at the Nebraska Methodist Hospital in Omaha. Bertha Marie "Betty" Confer was born December 6, 1936 in Omaha, Nebraska the daughter of Aage and Gladys Reta (Olsen) Andersen. The family moved to Red Oak, Iowa in 1947 and Betty graduated from Red Oak High School in the class of 1954. She moved to Omaha and attended college and later worked as a medical secretary for a doctor. Betty was united in marriage to Jack Confer on February 9, 1958 in Red Oak, Iowa. Betty was a homemaker and helped Jack on the family farm. Jack preceded her in death on May 7, 2004. Betty moved into Red Oak in 2009. She was a longtime member of the Hawthorne United Methodist Church where she served as a member and treasurer of the United Methodist Women. She was also a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, the United Christian Women, and attended Community Bible Study. Betty was very kind hearted and was always willing to help out anyone in need. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Preceding her in death were her parents; brother: Arnold Andersen; and husband: Jack Confer. Survivors include her children: Kerry Confer and wife Amy of Emerson, Iowa; Keith Confer and wife Colleen of Glenwood, Iowa; Ken Confer and wife Wendy of Stanton, Iowa; and Kelli Confer of Red Oak, Iowa; grandchildren: Matt Confer of Red Oak, Iowa; Mark Confer of Elkhorn, Nebraska; Liz Confer of Fremont, Nebraska; Katelyn and Kiersten Confer of Glenwood, Iowa; Cassie Gilliland of Stanton, Iowa; Cade and Marcel Confer of Stanton, Iowa; and Marissa Williams of Red Oak, Iowa; brothers: Robert Andersen and wife Rhoda of Karnack, Texas; Gene Andersen and wife Jeannie of Crossville, Tennessee; and Donald Andersen and wife Linda of Oskaloosa, Iowa; sisters: Rose Lewis and husband Keith of Red Oak, Iowa and Donna Mae Blay and husband Frank of Twin Falls, Idaho; brother-in-law: Glen Confer and wife Carolyn of Essex, Iowa; nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 10 AM Friday, December 11, 2009 at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Jan Phillips officiating. Burial will be in the Emerson, Iowa Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 5-7 PM Thursday, December 10, 2009 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Hawthorne United Methodist Church.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Twylla Dicks

Funeral services for Twylla Dicks, age 74, of Corning, who died Thursday, November 26, 2009, at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning, will be held Wednesday, December 2, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning. Visitation will be Tuesday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held in the Oakland Cemetery at Quincy. Memorials can be given in her name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Twylla was born January 19, 1935, in Carbon, Iowa, the youngest of three children of Lillian and Cliffton Haley. She graduated from Corning High School with the Class of 1953 and married Victor Dicks on September 6, 1953, at the Strand Lutheran Church. Victor and Twylla moved to Villisca and raised four children, Alan, Arnie, Victor (Buzz) and Carla. She was also the grandmother of nine grandchildren. She is also survived by her older sister, Lois Wilkerson.

Besides her jobs as wife and mother, she also worked at the Adams County Home, Montgomery County Social Services and as a bus driver for the Villisca School District. Her hobbies included reading, sewing, embroidering and quilting. Her easy going nature allowed her to enjoy the company of anyone that she was with.

Preceding Twylla in death are her parents; her loving husband Victor Dicks in 1997; and a brother, Jack Haley.

Although Twylla will be greatly missed, her love and inspiration will live on through her family.

Sherold (Jerry) Fredrick Wisecup

Sherold (Jerry) Fredrick Wisecup died peacefully on November 18, 2009 at Sutter Roseville Hospital.

The retired Dolly Madison cake driver, and 48 year Millbrae resident relocated to Del Webb Sun City in Lincoln, California in 2001 where he enjoyed residential resort living, and especially loved the memorable times spent with his special new-found friends in Lincoln Hills.

As a resident of Millbrae, Jerry served as Cub Master for Pack 313; volunteered for Millbrae's Art Com-mission while bringing live bands to his community on summer weekends; and offered his "handy-man" services to neighbors, friends and family - always wanting to help others.

Sherold was the second son born to Fred and Pauline (Livingston) Wisecup of Villisca, Iowa. Born on January 24, 1933 he adored his older brother, Sterling, who predeceased him in 2007.

Sherold is survived by his wife of 53 years, Gayle (Bruce) Wisecup, and two children; daughter Debbie and son-in-law Dave Van Wart of Millbrae, and son Tim Wisecup of Sacramento. Jerry was extremely proud of his two Grandchildren; Grand-daughter Jessica Selva (deceased) of Clearlake, and Grandson Hank Van Wart of Millbrae. Sherold is also survived by his sister-in-law, Etta Wisecup of Raymond, Iowa, and many loving nieces and nephews from various cities in Iowa, Oregon and California. Jerry will also be missed by many close life-long friends: Fay & Harvey (deceased) Bracken of Burlingame; Bill & Barbara Sayles of Sparks, Nevada; Lee & Carolyn Scott of Milpitas; Don & Carolyn Gay of Gilroy; Betsy & Virgil Williams of Auburn, just to name a few.

Memorial services were held at Lasilla Lincoln Funeral Chapel on Monday, November 23rd. The family appreciates donations to a favorite charity in memory of their beloved husband, father, grandfather.

Dick Strickland

Funeral services for Dick Strickland, age 69, of Villisca, Iowa, who entered into rest Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa were held Friday, October 30, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa with Reverend Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5-7 p.m., Thursday, October 29 at the Methodist Church, Villisca. Burial with military rites by the American Legion Ker-A-Vor Post 251 was in the Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Villisca Fire Department or to the American Legion Ker-A-Vor Post 251. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Dickie Lloyd Strickland was born November 20, 1939, in Page County, Iowa, the son of Lloyd Everett Strickland and Helen Celealia (Lundstedt) Strickland. He was born at the family farm and lived there four years and then the family moved to Montgomery County where he began school. He attended eight years of country school and graduated from Stanton High School in 1957. Dick played football and baseball in high school. He enlisted in the United States Army Reserves in 1956 and received an honorable discharge in 1964. In 1963, he was married to Dorothy Johnson and they later divorced. In 1985, he was united in marriage to Joann Pritchard.

Dick worked at Eveready Battery Company, Red Oak, Iowa for thirty five years. Following his retirement, he drove a school bus for Villisca Schools for thirteen years. Dick was a member of the Villisca Fire Department for thirty four years and chief for one year and a member of the American Legion Post 251 for thirty five years and commander five of those years. He enjoyed going to Nodaway on Saturday night and attending the stock car races in Corning. Dick was a huge Chicago Bears fan. He followed the girl's volleyball, boys and girls basketball and the Villisca High School football. Dick and Joann enjoyed vacations in the black hills of South Dakota.

Preceding Dick in death were his parents, Lloyd and Helen Strickland; wife, Joann Strickland; brother, Fred Strickland.

Survivors include daughter, Debbie Strickland Schenck of Villisca, Iowa; stepdaughters, Jeanne Pritchard and special friend Calvin Davis of Omaha, Nebraska, Pam Tucker and husband Adam of Hurst, Texas and Nancy Bond and husband Donnie of Red Oak, Iowa; grandson, Cody Clement of Villisca, Iowa; step grandchildren, Adam Smith and wife Abbey of Red Oak, Iowa, Caleb Smith of Atlantic, Iowa, Lucas and Sean Tucker of Hurst, Texas and great grandchildren Aiden and Aspen Smith of Red Oak, Iowa; brother, Lee Strickland and wife LaVern of Stanton, Iowa; nieces, nephews and many friends.

Dick will be missed by his family and friends but his love and inspiration will live on through his family. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing.

Miriam E. Larson

Miriam Eleanor Larson, the daughter of Wallace F. and Anna S. (Johnson) Larson was born May 22, 1913, northeast of Stanton, Iowa. She passed away Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at the Stanton Care Center, Stanton, Iowa at the age of 96 years, 5 months and 5 days.

In 1920 and at the age of 7, Miriam and her family moved from the farm into Stanton. She graduated from Stanton High School with the class of l934. Following graduation, Miriam attended Red Oak Junior College for two years. Her career as a stenographer at the Thos. D. Murphy Calendar Company in Red Oak spanned over 30 years. Miriam was a life-long member of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Stanton, having been confirmed there in l928. She belonged to the Covenant Women's group, and for approximately 16 years served as choir director, as music was a passion and of great interest to her. Miriam was a long-time member of Stanton's 20th Century Club and the 15-20 year club of Thos. D. Murphy Co. She became a resident of the Stanton Care Center in 2000.

Miriam was preceded in death by her parents; brother Paul who died in infancy; and sister, Melva.

Miriam is survived by cousins: Kenneth Marks of Lincoln, NE; Norman Marks of Geneva, NE; Charles Johnson of Clarinda, IA; Robert Larson of Des Moines, IA; Russel Larson of Anza, CA and Roger Larson of Lincoln, NE; along with many friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Evangelical Covenant Church, Stanton, Iowa. Burial at Mission Covenant Cemetery, rural Stanton with Rev. Paul Warder, Officiating

Open Viewing at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to Stanton's Evangelical Covenant Church.Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Rachael Flo Hoffman

Rachael Flo Hoffman was born October 3, 1940 in Iowa City, Iowa, the daughter of William Floyd and Vivian Marie (Lang) Kalkas. She passed away on Friday morning, October 23, 2009 at the Red Oak Nursing & Rehab Center in Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 69 years and 20 days.

Rachael grew up in southwest Iowa and received her education at country schools. She later attended Villisca High School. As a young girl Rachael enjoyed riding her horse, Lady, going to horse shows and rodeos where she competed in barrel racing. She was very proud when she brought home ribbons she won in these events. She also enjoyed playing softball and listening to Elvis on the radio. She liked to think of herself as Elvis’s biggest fan.

On October 21, 1957, she was united in marriage to Walter Lewis “Pete” Hoffman in Clarinda, Iowa. This union was blessed with four children; Ernest, Thomas, William and Donella. They raised their children in southwest Iowa and north central Arkansas. Rachael took great pride in her children and was a wonderful mom. She and Lewis loved to go square dancing and she spent some of her time sewing square dancing outfits for the both of them. Even though she was busy working to help support the family, she always made time for her children, family and friends.

She was a wonderful cook. One of her greatest joys was making huge family dinners. Her special fried chicken will be long remembered and missed as well as her loving and caring nature.

When the kids were grown Rachael was able to go with Lewis on his over the road trucking job. She talked a great deal about how much she enjoyed their time together and all of the beautiful country they saw. After Rachael and Lewis retired they moved back to Stanton, Iowa. Rachael then spent her time reading, watching her stories on television, playing bingo with friends and enjoyed her children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Walter Hoffman; three grandchildren, Robert Lewis Hoffman, Thomas E. Hoffman, Jr., Tonya Marie Hoffman; a great granddaughter, Brooklyn Joann Baucom; and a brother and sister-in-law, Willard and Alice Kalkas; brothers-in-law, Tom, Dick and Dallas Hoffman; and sisters-in-law, Iva, Cora and Wonda.

Survivors include her children, Ernest S. Hoffman and his wife Paula of Atkins, Arkansas, Thomas E. Hoffman and his wife Nancy of Red Oak, Iowa, William Henry Hoffman, III of Red Oak, Iowa, Donella Baucom and her husband Steve of Emerson, Iowa; 11 grandchildren, Walter Lewis Hoffman, II of Atkins, Arkansas, Daniel Joseph Hoffman of Atkins, Arkansas, Michael Hoffman of Pocahontas, Iowa, Thomas Hoffman of Pocahontas, Iowa, Rusty Lee Hoffman of Russellville, Arkansas, Joseph Hoffman of Jessieville, Arkansas, Tammie Hoffman of Portland, Oregon, Steven Baucom, Junior and his wife Stacey of Red Oak, Iowa, Roxanne Rena Baucom and her fiancé Rusty Reese of Farragut, Iowa, Raymond Paul Baucom and his wife Christina of Red Oak, Iowa, Curtis A. Baucom and his wife Megan of Shenandoah, Iowa; 19 great grandchildren, Grayson, Hunter, Seth, Dale, Gage, Katie, Tyler, Cody, Donavan, Isaiah, Olivia, Vivian, Jennifer, Dereck, Elizabeth, Natalie, Dante, Hunter, Ashley; a sister, Corina Jean (Jeannie) Lawrence and her husband Jerry of London, Arkansas; brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Sarah Hoffman of Shenandoah, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Viola Hoffman of Villisca, Iowa and Annalee Hoffman of Sacramento, California; along with many other relatives and friends.

Funeral service were held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 26, 2009 at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah with Rev. Eric Kutzli officiating. Burial was in the Rose Hill Cemetery at Shenandoah. Visitation with the family present was held on Sunday afternoon, October 25 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah. A memorial fund is being established in Rachael’s name. To leave online remembrances or condolences with the family, go to www.kirschfuneral.com. The Kirsch Funeral Chapel of Shenandoah is in charge of arrangements.

Mary Louise (Hoffman) Garey

Mary Louise (Hoffman) Garey was born September 14, 1938 in Adams County, Iowa, the daughter of Tom and Viola (Thompson) Hoffman. Mary passed away Sunday, October 18, 2009 at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, at the age of 71.

Mary grew up in the Carbon/Villisca area and graduated from Villisca Community High School in 1956. Following her high school graduation, she attended a business college in Omaha, Nebraska. Mary had a variety of occupations including dispatching at the City of Sacramento Police Department and at Adams County, Iowa. She was later employed at Lisle Corporation, CDS and a waitress at several different local establishments. Mary enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, playing bingo and cards.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Hoffman and three infant siblings. Mary is survived by her children; Carol Garey and Julie Uryasz of Scottsdale, Arizona, Joanna Goudie and husband Hal of Shambaugh, Iowa and Arvid Garey and wife Sue of Clarinda, Iowa, grandchildren; Tasha, Jessica, Dillon and Dawson, great-grandchildren; Adrien and Landen, sister Donna Wallis and husband Virgil of Villisca, Iowa, many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be directed to Bank Iowa Mary Garey Memorial Fund in her memory.

CURTIS FREY

Curt Frey, of Oskaloosa and formerly of Villisca and Clarinda, began chemotherapy treatment for leukemia on June 24th, 2009. He faced the disease with courage, hope, and humor, and he died in his sleep on the morning of October 16, 2009 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. He was 67 years of age.

Celebration of Life Services will be held Tuesday, October 20 at 2:00 p.m. at Saint Paul Congregational United Church of Christ in Oskaloosa with the Rev. Elizabeth Colton officiating. Visitation will begin Monday at noon at the Garland-Van Arkel-Langkamp Funeral Chapel, and the family will be present from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to St. Paul Congregational United Church of Christ.

Walter Curtis Frey was born March 2, 1942 in Clarinda, Iowa, the first son of Walter Leore and Maxine M. Mace Frey of Nodaway, Iowa. He attended grades one through eleven at the Nodaway Public Schools before graduating from Villisca High School in 1960. After graduation, he worked every summer at the family farm and for the CB&Q railroad to pay for his education. He attended Clarinda Community College for two years, and was accepted into the University of Northern Iowa at Cedar Falls, then known as the State College of Iowa. His teaching degree was awarded in 1965. He completed graduate coursework in history at the University of Northern Colorado during the summers from 1967 until 1969.

Curt dated Shirley Jean Needham his senior year in Villisca, and throughout college; they were married June 6, 1964 at the Advent Christian Church in Villisca. During their first year of marriage, Curt worked on local farms and as a substitute teacher in the Denver, Iowa school district. In 1965, both he and Shirley found teaching positions at Oskaloosa Junior High School, where he taught history and social studies for 33 years, retiring in 1998. During his career, he was a passionate advocate for the public schools, and he devoted his time and talents to improving the welfare of students and teachers in Oskaloosa and across Iowa. He was an active member of OEA/ISEA/NEA, a State Unit Nine officer, and he attended State Delegate Assembly. After retirement, he was active in ISEA/NEA-R and Mahaska county/Iowa Retired School Personnel Association.

Curt was a member of St. Paul Congregational United Church of Christ, served often on church boards, and was a Keomah City Councilman for over thirty years. An enthusiastic scholar, a lifetime learner, a historian “par excellence” (so dubbed by a colleague), Curt spent a lifetime reading everything he found in print, viewing documentaries, traveling and visiting historical sites and museums. He thoroughly enjoyed teaching, finding kindred spirits in interests, and visiting with people. He loved his animal friends, had a deep appreciation for the environment, and enjoyed spending time in nature. He could often be found working in the yard, taking care of his home, maintaining the city property of Keomah, or sharing a joke or story with the neighbors.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley, and their daughter Heidi (and James) Frey of Oshkosh, WI; his sister, Cheryl (and Bob) Lyall of Indianola, IA and their two daughters; his brother, Lyle (and Susan) Frey of Villisca, IA and their two daughters.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Richard E. Anderson

Graveside services for Richard E. Anderson will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Evergreen Cemetery in Red Oak, Iowa. Military honors by Ker-A-Vor Post 251 and Offutt Air Force Base. Richard passed away on October 12th at the Villisca Good Samaritan Center in Villisca, Iowa.

Richard Eugene Anderson was born in Red Oak, Iowa on April 4, 1934, the son of Audrey and Wayne Anderson. He graduated from Red Oak High School in 1952. After graduation, he attended Iowa State University for 2 years joining the ROTC program while enrolled there. He transferred to the University of Nebraska at Omaha where he graduated in 1969. Richard served in the United States Air Force for 26 years. He retired from Andrew Air Force Base in Washington D.C. in 1980.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his brother-in-law Tom Shapcott. Survivors include his daughter Sharon Nickleson and husband Doyle of Fallon, Nevada; grandson J. D. Nickleson of Reno, Nevada; sister Phyllis Shapcott of Villisca; niece Brenda Ingersoll and husband Bill of Villisca; nephew Chris Shapcott and wife Juli of Underwood, Iowa; half sisters Debbie Fort of Florida, Karen Barone of California; half brother Dennis Anderson of Missouri; great nephews Skylar Winterstien, Kyle Shapcott, Ben Ingersoll; great nieces Erin Shapcott, Lauren Shapcott and Beth Ingersoll.

Wofle Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

IRENE STACKHOUSE

Funeral services for Irene Stackhouse, 90, of Stanton and formerly of Villisca will be at 3:00 pm on Friday, October 2, 2009 at the Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca with interment in the Arlington Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be Friday, October 2nd from 2:00 pm to the service time.

Mildred Irene Stackhouse was born October 23, 1918 to Elvin Joseph and Mabel Clare Beavers on the family farm south of Villisca.

She grew up in Villisca and graduated in the class of 1936. Irene was united in marriage to Clifford Stackhouse on October 15, 1939 in Stanton, Iowa. The couple lived in Villisca and she worked in the Villisca school system as a secretary while Clifford farmed the surrounding land. Irene and Clifford moved to Des Moines where she continued to work in the school system. A couple years later they moved to Atlantic where she continued to be involved with the schools while Clifford worked with the Highway Commission. They then moved to Iowa City where Irene worked at the Veterans Affairs Hospital as a secretary retiring in 1983. After retirement, Clifford and Irene enjoyed wintering in Texas and Arizona. After Clifford passed away in 1987, Irene moved to Clarinda. Irene went to Westridge Quality Care in 2003 and moved to the Stanton Care Center in December of 2008. Irene loved reading, sewing and spending time with her family.

Irene passed away September 30, 2009 at the Stanton Care Center with her family at her side. Preceding Irene in death are her parents, husband, daughters Maxine Ann Magneson and Marie Elaine Johnson, and two sisters Leta Greenfield and Marjorie McNerney.

Irene is survived by daughter Mary Stackhouse of Omaha, Nebraska; son-in-law Merlin Magneson of Clarinda; grandchildren Dan Magneson of Quilcene, Washington, Jeff Magneson and wife Tammy of Stanton, Trish Anderson and husband Kevin of Stanton, and Kelli Johnson of Sioux City; sisters Esther Roberts of Oregon and Ardith Earl of California; and 6 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Stanton Care Center or St. John's Lutheran Church. Wolfe Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Berniece Guffey

Funeral services for Berniece Guffey, 86, of Villisca were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, September 28, 2009 at the Villisca United Methodist Church with interment in the Villisca Cemetery following the service. Pastors Kevin Skipworth and Gordon Scott officiated.

Berniece Ruth Barr was born on August 29, 1923 in the rural Elliott area. She was the daughter of Carl Martin Barr and Laura Bell (Given) Barr. She graduated from Red Oak in the class of 1941 with her Normal Training Certificate. She began teaching school at Douglas No. 9 that same year.
She taught at the Pilot Grove Center School the next 2 years.

She was united in marriage to Elwin Bee Guffey on January 21, 1945 in Elliott, Iowa. They were blessed with a son David Elwin in 1946.

She resumed her teaching career in 1954 at Washington Township #1. She taught 5 more years in the country schools and in 1959 began teaching in the Villisca school system . She taught and went to school graduating with her Bachelor of Science Degree in 1966. She retired in 1986. She was a member of the Advent Christian Church and Eastern Star.
Berniece was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers Neil, Clyde, Floyd, Roy, and sister Helen Taylor.

She is survived by her son David (Karen) Guffey of Villisca, grandson Rick (Ariadne) Guffey, step grand -children Brian (Teena) Workman and Emily (Andy) Fantis, great- grandchildren Megan (Josh Mastin) Guffey, Nathan Guffey, Adam Workman and Aris “Audie” Fantis, one step great-grandchild Alexis, one great-great grandchild Macy Renea and three step great-great grandchildren - Skyler, Nathan, and Kylee. Special friend Coral Guffey as well as many nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the Advent Christian Church.

Wolf Funeral Home of Villisca in charge of the arrangements.

Earl B. Shipley was born December 3, 1928 south of Nodaway, Iowa on the family farm to Fred and Alma (Windom) Shipley. He was the youngest of five children: Margaret, Enid, Malcolm, James and Earl.

He graduated Nodaway High School in the class of 1946. He was married to Sylvia Marie Dumler October 31, 1947 at the Stanton Lutheran Church. He farmed the family farm with his brother Malcolm following high school. Before leaving high school he took over as catcher on the Nodaway Town Team baseball team (Nodaway Cardinals) for a player that went off to war in 1945. Earl played with the Nodaway team for many years. Baseball became a passion for him all his life. His loyalty was to the St. Louis Browns which were to become the St. Louis Cardinals. Loyalty to his family, friends, business associates and friends was important to Earl.

Earl became an independent heavy equipment contractor in 1960 and worked all over the State of Iowa. In 1975 Earl was the superintendent for Moody Construction when they built Lake Icaria in Adams County. In 1985 he and his son Marvin ran Shipley Construction for another 15 years. One of the last jobs Earl did before health forced his retirement was in 1994 when Shipley Construction assisted with the dirt work for the Clarinda Prison complex.
Earl was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Margaret Blackledge and Enid Shupe and her husband Leonard; brothers Malcolm Shipley and James Shipley.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sylvia of Villisca; children Joseph E. Shipley and wife Margaret of Red Oak, Iowa, Charles Shipley of Red Oak, Iowa, Stanley Shipley and wife Barbara of Tenville, Iowa, Janet Stoner and husband Kelly of Topeka, Kansas, and Marvin Shipley and wife Chris of Tenville, Iowa; grandchildren J. David Shipley, Andre Shipley, Courtney Penock and husband Todd and their children Whitney and Hayley, Clint Shipley, Laura Shipley, Seth Stoner, Laci Stoner, and Christine Shipley; sisters-in-law Emma Jean Shipley of Nodaway, Iowa and Lea Mae Shipley of Shenandoah, Iowa.

A memorial fund is being established in Earl's name. Wolfe Funeral Home provided arrangements.

Ruby Mae (Honeywell) Hinkle

Ruby Mae(Honeywell)Hinkle, daughter of Elmer and Mary Honeywell, was born February 5, 1916, in Pacific Junction, Iowa and entered into eternal rest September 11, 2009 at the age of 93 years ,7 months and 6 days.

Ruby attended school at Villisca, graduating from Villisca HIgh School with the class of 1934. After graduation, she did domestic help, worked at the Glenwood State Hospital-School(Glenwood Resource Center) and worked at Thomas D. Murphy until 1989 when she retired.

She was united in marriage to Joe Hinkle on September 25,1937, in Atlantic, Iowa. To this union, three children were born.

Ruby enjoyed gardening, canning, visiting with neighbors, and sitting on her porch swing.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, husband Joe, one brother, one sister.

Ruby is survived by her children: Donna Rae Larson of Cedar Rapids,Iowa; Mary Jo Maher of Emerson, Iowa; Stephen Merele Hinkle of Springfield, Missouri; 10-grandchildren; 8-great-grandchildren and numerous other family and friends.

Graveside services, at Villisca Cemetery, will be Saturaday , September 26, 2009 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flower, memorials can be sent to the Emerson Rescue Squad.

GARY LYNN GRAY

Graveside memorial services for Gary Gray, age 57, of Villisca, Iowa, who died Thursday, August 20, 2009 at Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa was held Sunday, August 23, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the North Grove Cemetery, rural Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Andrew Rubenking officiating. Burial with military rites by American Legion Ker-A-Vor Post 251 was in the North Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Gary Lynn Gray was born September 8, 1951 at Clarinda, Iowa to Arthur Russell Gray and Mary (Robinson) Gray. He had three brothers and one sister. Gary was a graduate of Clarinda High School and attended college for three years. He served his country in the United States Army, from 1972-1979, during the Vietnam War and was also stationed in Germany. On December 31, 1984, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Smith at Security, Colorado. They have four children, Eric, Alan, Jennifer and Kerri.

Gary was a truck driver for Midwest Viking Trucking Company and John Beem Implement. He was a member of the American Legion Ker-A-Vor Post 251. Gary enjoyed tractor pulls, fishing and was active in horse shows when he was young. He had a great interest in Harley's. Most important to Gary was his family and truly enjoyed being with his grandchildren.

Preceding Gary in death were his parents, Art and Mary; brothers, Kyle Gray, Russell Gray; sister, Gail Thurman and nephew, Jason Gray.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Beth Gray of Villisca, Iowa; sons, Eric Gray of Corning, Iowa and Alan Gray and wife Shelly of Nodaway, Iowa; daughters, Jennifer Montagne and husband Kirk of Glenwood, Iowa and Kerri Pace of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren, Jessica Pace, Bradley Maxwell, Chelsey Gray, Braden Gray, Payton Gray, Addison Gray, Walker Pace, Payton Montagne, Kenley Montagne; brother, Kevin Gray of Clarinda, Iowa; nieces, nephews and many friends.

Gary will be greatly missed by his friends and family,
but the memories will remain in our hearts forever .
May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Gary's passing.

Rev. Charles Edgar Burton

Rev. Charles Edgar Burton, born on Sept. 4, 1937 in Clarinda, IA, passed away on Aug. 31, 2009 in Miami, FL. He was the son of Edgar & Mary Burton. In 1993, he married his loving wife, Linda.

He is also survived by his children Kathy & Dave Butt, Paul & Julie Burton, Jennifer & Kevin Cerchiai, and Pamela & Waldemar Korbecki; siblings John Burton, Elaine Hein, Evelyn Lewis, Sharon King, and Kenneth Burton; and seven adoring grandchildren.

Chuck spread God's love by serving at Silver Palm UMC, Wesley UMC, St. Paul's UMC, and Perrine-Peters UMC. We will cherish the memories of him in our hearts. His joyous reunion with his Father in Heaven will be celebrated on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009 at 11 a.m. at Perrine-Peters United Methodist Church, 18301 South Dixie Hwy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to South Florida Urban Ministries, 2850 SW 27 Ave., Miami, FL 33133 in his honor. To visit this Guest Book Online, go to www.MiamiHerald.com/obituaries.

Rudy Kilgore

Rudy Kilgore, 51, of Creston, died Sunday, August 23, 2009, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Services will be 10:30 A.M., Friday, August 28, at Crest Baptist Church, Creston, Iowa. Pastor Chuck Spindler will officiate. Interment will be held at a later date. Open visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, August 27. Family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. Thursday evening at Pearson-Coen-Beaty Family Funeral Service, Creston, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Rural Iowa Crisis Center and/or the food pantry. On-line condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com.

Rudy Gail Kilgore, the son of Max Stanley and Margaret (Bradshaw) Kilgore, was born on January 14, 1958, at Creston, Iowa. Rudy graduated from Creston High School with the Class of 1977 and attended Southwestern Community College. He married Valerie Davis in 1977 and they later divorced. Rudy married Linda Strickland on September 21, 1991, in Creston.

Rudy grew up in Creston and helped his father, by working at Kilgore's. Rudy also worked for Casey's, as a manager, in Creston. In 1977, Rudy moved to Villisca and managed the Casey's Store until returning to Creston the fall of 1980. Rudy took over the Kilgore's business in 1981. In 1997, Rudy began the car rental side of his business. Rudy and Linda began selling RV's in 2006.

Rudy was Co-Founder of the Iowa Independent Auto Dealers Association in 1994; earned the Iowa Quality Dealer Award two times in 1995 and 2003; won the National Auto Dealers Association Dealer of the Year Award for Iowa in 2002. He was a member of Crestmoor Golf Club; a member of IIADA and NADA; and a member of the Salem Lutheran Church. Rudy was a big supporter of the Dream Factory and was Co-Founder of the Iowa Chapter.

Rudy's hobbies revolved around his grandkids. He loved to camp and to travel. His grandchildren were the joys of his life.

Left to cherish Rudy's memory are is wife, Linda Kilgore, Creston; his son, Dusty Kilgore, Creston; the mother of his grandchildren, Joni Morris, Creston; his two grandchildren: Max and Morgan Kilgore, Creston; his sister, Kaye Carson, Slater; his brother, Randall Kilgore, Creston; his father-in-law and his mother-in-law: Lee and LaVern Stickland, Stanton; his brother-in-law: Lyle (Julie) Strickland, Stanton; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Preceding Rudy in death were his Parents; Brother-in-Law, Ron Carson; Infant Son, Rudy Ervin Kilgore, in 1981; and an infant sister, Shirley Kilgore.

Clifford A. Lantz

Clifford Arthur Lantz, the son of Arthur E. and Hazel E. (Lindquist) Lantz, was born August 27, 1926 in Stanton, Iowa. He died on Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at Mercy Hospital, Council Bluffs, Iowa at the age of 83 years and 12 days.

Clifford was raised and attended school in Stanton, Iowa. He began farming and then during WWII entered the U. S. Army. After his discharge, he returned to Stanton to farm. Clifford was united in marriage to Marjorie L. Michael on December 10, 1948 in Stanton, Iowa. Clifford's life work was farming and raising livestock. He was a great steward of the land. Clifford was generous and always had time to help his neighbors and friends. He enjoyed sharing stories and drinking coffee with friends. Clifford was a member of Mamrelund Lutheran Church, having served as a past board member and Sunday School assistant superintendent. He was a member of the American Legion Ernie Johnson Post #406 of Stanton, Iowa.

Clifford was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Merrill Lantz.

Clifford is survived by his wife: Marjorie L. Lantz of Stanton, IA; daughter: Jacque Petersen of Omaha, NE; son: Douglas Lantz and wife Glenda of Dumas, TX; 5 grandchildren: Ali Petersen, Tess Petersen, Jared Lantz and wife Jana, Jacob Lantz and Richelle Lantz; brother: Donald Lantz and wife Carolyn of Stanton, IA; sister: Helen Beason and husband Dr. Ralph of Los Angeles, CA; sisters-in-law: Mrs. Alice Lantz of Stanton, IA; and Carol Zoucha of Petersburg, NE; brother-in-law: Harlan Michael and wife Carol of Temple City, CA; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Stanton, IA. Burial in Mamre Cemetery. Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli, Officiating. Visitation with the family present on Friday evening from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

Memorials to Mamrelund Lutheran Church Endowment fund or Mamre Cemetery fund.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

He enjoyed going to the casinos, playing cards and spending time with family.

Maury was preceded in death by a sister, Thora Elaine in 1934, his father in 1960 and his mother in 1990.

Survivors include his wife Joyce, daughter Connie (Rod) McAlpin, grandson Jeff Hillhouse, 5 step grandchildren, 1 great grandson and 7 step great grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the Villisca Methodist Church or the Red Oak Rescue Unit.

KAREN D. HARDY

Karen D. Hardy ,57, of Des Moines went home on Wednesday August 19, 2009 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. Graveside memorial services will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2009 in the Nodaway Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. with an additional service being held in Des Moines at Grandview Church of Christ at 6.00 p.m.

Karen was born on December 30, 1951, in Villisca, Iowa to Kenneth and Lois Lynam and married Merle Hardy on September 17, 1971. She was a loving mom and “maam” and was a dedicated Mercy Family Medicine Residency Program employee for the last 12 years.

She is survived by her children and granddaughters: Son, Patrick and Jill Hardy, Alyssa and Kaitlyn; Daughter, Cassie and Mike Johnson, Claire and Cora; Son, Kenneth and Breana Hardy, Keavy and Keagan; Daughter, Melissa and Brian Hiskey, Elyse and Aubrey and Son, Micah Hardy. She is also survived by her mother, Lois Lynam, and sisters Marilyn and Matthew Pacheco, Patricia Wyrick, Carolyn and Wayne Faust and Marianna and Bill Harris; and numerous other family members.

She is preceded in death by her father and 2 brother-in-laws.

In lieu of flowers the family wishes memorial contributions be directed to the Susan G. Kolman Foundation.

JACK M. TAYLOR

Jack M. Taylor, age 86, of Grant, Iowa passed away Monday, August 17, 2009 at the Cass County Memorial Hospital in Atlantic, Iowa after an extended illness. Jack Melvin Taylor was born October 26, 1922 on a farm near Grant, Iowa the son of Seymour and Lenora (Towne) Taylor. He graduated from Grant High School in 1940 and lived all of his life near Grant except during WWII when he served in the Army Air Corp as a tail gunner on a B17. Jack was united in marriage to Helen Sandquist on June 30, 1946 at the United Methodist Church in Red Oak. To this union three children were born: Linda, Bill, and Roy. Jack was a farmer and truck driver until retiring in 1984. He was a longtime member of the Grant United Methodist Church where he served as trustee. Jack was a 60 plus year member of the Grant American Legion Post and was commander for many years. He was also a member of the Villisca VFW, Montgomery County Veterans Committee, and served on the Grant town council. After retiring, Jack was always busy doing volunteer work for the church, the town, or anyone else that needed help.

Preceding him in death were his parents and a brother: Loren F. Taylor. Survivors include his wife: Helen Taylor of Grant, Iowa; children: Linda Staiert and husband Robert of Topeka, Kansas; Bill Taylor and wife Nancy and Roy Taylor and wife Karen all of the Grant, Iowa area; grandchildren: Angie Perrier and husband Glen of Alma, Kansas; John Staiert and wife Julie of Topeka, Kansas; Loren Taylor of Elliott, Iowa; Bob Taylor and wife Genie, Chris Taylor, and Kari Taylor all of the Grant, Iowa area; great grandchildren: Adam and Noah Perrier; Shane and Colten Taylor; Jaylin Moore; Jozzy Thach; and the soon due baby Staiert; brother: Vernon Taylor and wife Phyllis of Atlantic, Iowa; sisters-in-law: Doris Sandquist of Shenandoah, Iowa and Evelyn Sandquist of Creston, Iowa; many nieces, nephews and many other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life will be held from 2 PM - 5PM Sunday, August 23, 2009 at the Elliott Community Building in Elliott, Iowa. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund is being established in Jack's name.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

CHUCK GIFFORD

Chuck Gifford, age 64, of Carroll passed away on Thursday, August 6, 2009 at Lake View, Iowa.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, August 12, 2009 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Carroll with Fr. Doug Dandurand as Celebrant. Friends may call at the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Carroll after 2:30 P.M. on Tuesday where there will be a Rosary at 3:00 P.M.. The casket will be moved to St. Lawrence Catholic Church at 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday where there will be a Christian Wake Service held at 7:00 P.M. by the parish. Lectors for the Mass will be Larry Matiyow, Sherry Holst, and Doug Gifford. Gift bearers will be Tawnya Harbaugh, Kris Trecker, and Julie Steinkamp. Eucharistic Ministers will be Anita Tegels, Ron Eich, and Jan Eich. Music will be by Marcy Andersen and Justin and Tyler Badding. Casket bearers will be Wes Niles, Jeff Clasen, George Toewers, Curt Turner, Phil Dukes, Dave Vollestedt, Greg Peterson, and Tom Lehman. Honorary casket bearers will be Larry Bloes, Barb Powell, Jim Millenacker, Larry Clark, Phil Squibb, Keith Stribe, Bing Peterson, Gary and Pam Vreeland, and Chuck’s State Farm family. Burial will be in the Carroll City Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the Carroll American Legion.

Born on December 27, 1944 at Creston, Iowa, he was the son of Lloyd and Helen (Vogel) Gifford. He grew up in Creston where he graduated from Creston High School in 1963. Following high school he attended South West Community College for two years and then graduated from Northwest Missouri State University with a degree in education. He was married to Barb Taylor on August 20, 1966 at St. Malachy Catholic Church in Creston. He taught school in King City, Missouri before being drafted into the US Army. He served two years during the Vietnam Conflict and was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service in connection with military operations against hostile forces. Upon return from military service, Chuck obtained his Masters Degree in History from Northwest Missouri State University. He taught history at Villisca for five years before moving to Carroll where the family has lived since 1976. He then taught history at Carroll High and Kuemper High Schools. Chuck worked as a State Farm Insurance Agent from 1979 until retirement in 2008. He was a member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Kiwanis, a lifetime member of the American Legion and the V.F.W. He was very active in the community serving several organizations. Chuck enjoyed music, fishing, camping, reading, kayaking, biking, and traveling with his wife Barb. And most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandchildren. Surviving are his wife Barb of Carroll; a son Doug Gifford and his wife Tena of Carroll; twin daughters: Stephanie Gifford of Waukee, and Stacie Feilmeier and her husband J.D. of Des Moines; four grandchildren: Sydnee, Brooklyn, Dawson, and Easton; a sister Joann Peterson and her husband Bing of Omaha, Nebraska; three sisters-in-law: Helen Mae Turner of Grinell, Iowa, Caryl Dukes and her husband Phil of Marathon, and Sandra Taylor of Mt Ayr, Iowa; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Robert, and his mother and father-in-law Harold and Margaret Taylor.

Chuck passed away in one of his favorite places on earth; Black Hawk Lake. We will miss his contagious laughter, his sense of humor, and his great zest for life.

TALTON K. "TAL" ANDERSON

Anderson, Talton K. “Tal,” Feb 15, 1937 – Aug 14, 2009, of Omaha, NE. Preceded in death by parents, Ruben and Ruth Anderson; brothers, Gene and Dalen. Survived by wife, Mary Joy Anderson; children: Lisa Anderson, Mickey Anderson and wife Krista, Angela Quinn and husband Sean; grandchildren: Asher, Isaiah, Noah and Eden Anderson, Talton and Peter Quinn; brother, Bruce Anderson and wife Kris; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Howard “Larry” LeClair and wife Betty Jane; nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, 5pm-7pm, St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, Omaha, followed by Vigil Service at 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, 10am, St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church. Entombment, Resurrection Mausoleum, Omaha. In lieu of flowers, memorials to: Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha c/o Archdiocese of Omaha; Archdiocesan Youth Camp and Retreat Center; or Boys Town.

HELEN VERLEE WAAGE PLUMER

Funeral services for Helen Plumer, age 69 of Corning, who died Thursday, May 28, 2009, at her home were held Monday, June 1, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Strand Evangelical Lutheran Church. Interment was held in the Strand Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to the Strand Lutheran Church. Memories can be shared with the family on our web page www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Helen Verlee (Waage) Plumer was born February 18, 1940, in Villisca, Iowa the third daughter of six children born to Russell Waage and Lela (Peterson) Waage. She grew up attending Lincoln No. 9 Maple Grove Country School. She then attended Villisca High School. She married her first husband, Jim Olson, in 1956 at Strand. Two children were born to bless her life, Kevin and Brenda. The family lived in the Carbon area where they farmed, owned and operated a large cattle and fertilizer operation. Helen also served as the Carbon Postmaster for several years until her retirement in 2002

In 1992, Helen was united in marriage to Phil Plumer in Carson, Iowa where the couple made their home. While living in Carson, Helen drove to Carbon continuing to serve as Postmaster, later moving to Corning. Together they enjoyed their lives living in Corning, raising a few head of cattle while living on the edge of town. Always wanting to travel, the couple really enjoyed their winter spent in Arizona.

Helen was a life-long member of the Strand Evangelical Lutheran Church, teaching Bible School in her younger years. It was always a 'family event' when they prepared for the annual Church Bazaar. Helen's passion in life was loving children, they loved her and she loved them. Not only did she influence the lives of her children and grandchildren, but the lives of many children in the community. Helen was a tremendous cook and baker. She enjoyed reading cookbooks and trying out new recipes on her family. Preparing a large meal to share not only with her family but the hired men on the farm was one of the many pleasures she enjoyed throughout the years. She was known for her homemade noodles, mashed potatoes and gravy, but especially the strawberry dessert! She possessed a wonderful sense of humor and had a laugh that was infectious to everyone around her. She was known for sharing a good joke and truly enjoyed pulling a practical joke on someone if she got the chance! To the grandchildren, Helen was 'always fun', she enjoyed playing on the floor with the kids and even dressed up a time or two for Halloween to go trick-or-treating!

Left to cherish the memory of this wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend are her loving husband Phil Plumer of Corning; her two children, Kevin Olson of Corning; and Brenda (John) McElwain of Villisca; a step-daughter, Phylis Leary of Corning; five brothers and sisters, Carolyn (Lee) Scott of Milpitas, California; Norma (Byron) Benson of Ca?on City, Colorado; Janice (Rex) Eberly of Corning; Larry (Norma) Waage of Clive, Iowa; Marlene (Ed) Gilkerson of Columbia, Iowa; four grandchildren, Stacie (Tony) Krauth of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Sarah (Justin) Williams of San Antonio, Texas; Andy Olson of Brooks, Iowa; Rachel McElwain of Villisca; two step-grandchildren, Jacob Leary of St. Louis, Missouri; and Michelene Leary of Crevicore, Missouri; two great-grandchildren, Kaden Krauth and Cale Williams; and one step-great-grandson, Riley Leary; along with many other nieces, nephews, relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Helen in death are her parents, Russell and Lela Waage.

Helen was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all her family and many friends.

She was a true inspiration to her entire family and a great influence to her grandchildren.

William D. Fryer

William D Fryer died at his home in Clarence, N.Y., on February 16, 2009. William was born on January 16, 1929, in Page County, IA. He was raised in the Page County and Villisca area. He graduated from Villisca High School in 1947. He attended and graduated from Carnegie Institute of Technology in Pittsburg and received his Masters from the University of Buffalo.

His career as a whole was that of a Mathematician. At the time of his death, he had returned from Calspan, formerly named Cornell Aeronautical Research Laboratories as their Principal Physicist.
He and his wife, June, had three children; Mark, Nancy and Katherine and six grandchildren.

Preceding him in death was his parents, Frank and Elzene Fryer and a sister, Violet Hanson.

Surviving him are his wife, June; son Mark and wife, Sharon; Nancy Hall and husband, Dave; and Katherine Sprouls; six grandchildren: Alyssa , Julie and Jonathan Fryer and Aneal, Marisa and Keara Sprouls; sisters Helen Hess, of Andeluna, AL and Maxine Nelson, of Clarinda, IA.

Funeral services were held in Clarence, N.Y.

Marjorie E. Wilson

Marjorie E. Wilson, age 89, of Villisca, Iowa, passed away Monday, March 9, 2009 at the Clarinda Regional Hospital. Marjorie Ellen Wilson was born August 2, 1919 in Villisca, Iowa the daughter of Charles "Arthur" and Nora Faye (Neal) Smith. She was raised and attended school in Villisca, Iowa. Marjorie took care of elderly people until her marriage to Casey Albert Wilson on August 27, 1937 in Maryville, Missouri. They lived and farmed near Guss, Iowa for three years and Runnells, Iowa for 11 years before moving back to Villisca in 1960. Marjorie and Casey owned and operated Shady Lawn Rest Home from 1967 until 1978. Marjorie was a member of the Advent Christian Church, the Ladies Evening Circle, and was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband: Casey Albert Wilson in 1987; daughter: Geneva Skalberg; brothers: Don, Keith, Elmer, and Jim Smith; and sons-in-law: Everett Hutchings and Clarence McCuen. Survivors include her children: Jeanette Hendrickson and husband Ray of Oakland, Arkansas; James Wilson and wife Nancy of Gilman City, Missouri; Eldon Wilson and wife Geraldine of Des Moines, Iowa; Mable McCuen of Stanton, Iowa; Norma Jean Graham of Villisca, Iowa; Steve Wilson and wife Peggy of Shenandoah, Iowa; Russ Wilson of San Francisco, California; and Lloyd Wilson and wife Bonnie of Brookhaven, Mississippi; 40 grandchildren; 51 great grandchildren; many great great grandchildren; brothers: Paul Smith of Villisca, Iowa and Glendon Smith and wife Wendy of Ft. Reiley, Florida; sisters-in-law: Louise Smith of Red Oak, Iowa and LaVonne Smith of Florida; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 1 PM Wednesday, March 11, 2009 at the Advent Christian Church in Villisca with Rev. Kevin Skipworth, officiating. Burial will be in the Arlington Cemetery near Villisca. There will be open visitation beginning at 1 PM Tuesday, March 10, 2009 at the Advent Christian Church with the family present from 6-8 PM. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the family.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel, Red Oak, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.

Kelly Anne Anderson

Kelly Anne Anderson, 41, of Lincoln passed away Mar. 5, 2009. She was born Sept. 28, 1967 in Chadron, NE to Marlin & Judi Green. Attended school and graduated from Shenandoah High School in 1985, she then went on to graduate from the University of Nebraska in 1989. Kelly taught school in the Lincoln Public Schools for 20 yrs. teaching at Pershing & Arnold Elementary Schools.
Survivors:
Husband - Justin; Children - Conor, Whitney, Myah & McCray; Parents - Marlin & Judi Green of Shenandoah, IA; Sister & Brother-in-law - Jeanne & Bryce Franson of Villisca, IA; Mother-in-law & Father-in-law - Rich & Theresa Anderson of Emerson, NE; Brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins

Memorial Service 10:00 AM, Sat. (3/7/09) at Calvary Community Church, 4400 N. 1st Street, Lincoln, NE. Prayer Service 7 PM, Fri. (3/6/09) at Calvary Community Church. The family suggests childrens books in lieu of flowers. Memorials to the family for future designation. Condolences may be left online at lincolnfh.com

Donald "Whitey" Glen Steward

Funeral services for Donald "Whitey" Glen Stewart were held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, February 21, 2009, at the Blockton Christian Church in Blockton, Ia. with Reverend Scott Marcum officiating. Interment at Rose Hill Cemetery with military rites accorded by Blockton American Legion.
Donald "Whitey" Glen Stewart was born February 24, 1928 in Conway, Iowa, the son of David Alfred Stewart and Amy Belle (Matheny) Stewart. He grew up attending rural schools and then entered the United States Army on January 11, 1946, in Fort Snelling, Minnesota, faithfully serving his country until July 10, 1947, when he was discharged in Williamsfield, Arizona. On February 16, 1948, he was united in marriage to Donna Mae Henson, in Bedford, Iowa. The couple made their home in Blockton Two children were born to bless their lives, Allen and Sheila.

Whitey was a truck driver and farmer most of his working life. He was a strong "people person" who enjoyed playing cards. Whitey never met a stranger and he always enjoyed telling jokes, especially "blonde jokes". He enjoyed camping, bowling, playing golf and spending time with his grandchildren. Whitey was active in the Blockton American Legion, the Bethany Masonic Lodge 320, of Blockton, Iowa. He was a proud member of the Clearfield Lions Club where he actively participated in the Iowa State Fair Shuttle Service for many, many years.

Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend are his loving wife of sixty-one years, Donna Mae Stewart, of Villisca; a son, Allen Stewart and wife, Lyn, of Sterling, Illinois; a daughter, Sheila Haidsiak and husband, Lee, of Villisca; three brothers, David "Boge" Stewart and wife, Wylene, of Clearfield; Larry Stewart and Fern Green, of Zillah, Washington; and Dick Stewart and wife, Debi, of Creston; a sister, Christina Wall, of Bedford; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren along with many other relatives and friends.
Preceding Whitey in death are his parents, David and Amy Stewart and two brothers, Arlo Stewart and Dwight "Doc" Stewart.

Memorials may be directed to the family in care of Donna Stewart, 115 N 5th Ave., Villisca, IA. 50864. Arrangements were entrusted to Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford, Ia.

Grace Georgine Larson

Grace Georgine Larson passed away in her home Saturday, February 28, 2009 at the age of 91. Grace was born September 16, 1917 near Bethesda, Iowa to Alfred and Antonia (Lindberg) Wallin. She was the second of four children including Margaret, Jean, and Dale.

Grace graduated from Clarinda High School, Clarinda, Iowa in 1934 and Clarinda Junior College in 1936. Following graduation she taught school in rural Page County at Goldenrod, Woodlawn, Maple Hill and Coburg Schools from 1936-1945. On December 25, 1942 she was united in marriage to Charles Larson. After a time in World War II service, the couple returned to rural Page County where they farmed near Bethesda. To this marriage four children were born: Sherrill, Phil, Alan and Joan. In 1980 Charles retired and they moved to Clarinda where he managed farms until 2007. They were married for 66 years.

Grace was a lifelong member of Bethesda Lutheran Church and active in Bethesda Lutheran Church Women. She was a member of HGL Club, PEO, and the Clarinda Garden Club. She enjoyed her family, quilting, bird watching, flowers and music. She sang for many years in the Bethesda choir.
She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Margaret and Jean.

Survivors include her husband, Charles of Clarinda; children: Sherrill Lisle and husband Bill of Clarinda, Iowa, Phil and wife Pat of Washington, D.C., Alan and wife Beth of Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Joan Eckert and husband Scott of Scottsdale, Arizona; brother Dale Wallin and wife Lois of Red Oak, Iowa; grandchildren, Matt and wife Allison Lisle, Mary and husband Brad Landhuis, Dr. Cara and husband Sekou Biddle, Greg Larson and wife Lauren Healey, Matt Larson, Max Rankin, Michael Eckert, and Marshall Eckert; great-grandchildren: Niklaas and Kate Landhuis, Isabella and Jackson Lisle, Theodore and Rashad Biddle, Sabrina Elliott and Gabriel Rankin.

Funeral services for Grace will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 5, 2009 at Bethesda Lutheran Church with Rev. Jerry Lamb officiating. Memorials are suggested to the Bethesda Lutheran Church. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa provided arrangements.

Henry Gaylord Hendrickson

Henry Gaylord Hendrickson 90, Lincoln, died Saturday (2/7/09). Henry was born to Goodman and Sarah (Anderson) in Nodaway (Adams County), Iowa on May 5, 1918. He attended schools in Nodaway, Iowa, Clay Center and Big Springs, Neb., and Grand Island Business College. Henry came to Lincoln in 1941 as a stockroom manager for F. W. Woolworth's, and married Josephine Hawkinson on August 1 of that year. Henry served his country beginning in 1943 as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps. Upon his honorable discharge from service, he returned to work for F. W. Woolworth's before taking positions with Rock Island Railroad and National Cash Register. Beginning in 1947, Henry started his career with the United States Post Office. Henry retired on August 14, 1979 after 33 years. Henry loved sports, and was an avid bowler. Member of Warren United Methodist Church, Eagle's Club 147, and American Legion Post 342.

Henry is survived by his daughter, Donna and her husband, Dwaine Mapel; grandson, David and his wife, Amy Mapel; granddaughter, Deann and her husband, Greg Czaplewski; five great-grandchildren; 10 nieces and 10 nephews. He was preceded in death by his wonderful wife and best friend, Jo; his parents; his sister, Agnes and brother-in-law, Glen Windom; his brother, Marion and sister-in-law, Grace; his brother, Glenn and sister-in-law, Lois; and his sister, Velma and brother-in-law, Benton Cain.

Services 12:30 p.m. Friday (2/13/09) at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, 6800 South 14th Street. Visitation 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday (2/12/09) with family greeting friends 6 to 8 p.m. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, to the American Heart Association.

Tom Smith

Villisca native Tom Smith passed away on 8 February 2009 in Antioch, CA as the result of a sudden and massive heart attack. He was 80 years of age.

Born in Villisca in October, 1928, Tom was the son of John and Marie Smith. He attended Villisca schools, including the high school where he played tuba in the marching band. In 1942, he and his family came to settle in Pittsburg, CA to take jobs in the war effort. He graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1946. He and his wife Bonnie were married in Antioch, CA in 1950. Too young to serve in the Second World War, he was drafted into the Korean War and did his service in Yokahama, Japan. Following his return from the service, he worked for Dow Chemical in Antioch. He attended the Diablo Valley College and then the University of California, Berkeley and graduated with a BS in Mechanical Engineering in 1960. Initially working for Libby Foods, he came to Kaiser Engineers in Oakland and worked there for 28 years, involved with designing cement plants and other materials handling facilities all over the world. In 1962, they moved to Piedmont, CA and resided there until they moved to the Quail Lodge retirement facility in Antioch in 2004. Their only child, Brian Smith, graduated from Piedmont High School in 1985.

He is survived by his son, Brian, of Fairfax, Virginia, his daughter-in law Kristina and two grandsons. He is preceded in death by his wife Bonnie, his brother John Leslie and his sisters Frances Findley and Edna O'Brien. Services will be held on Saturday, 21 February at 1:30 at the Pittsburg Funeral Home in Pittsburg, CA. Contributions in his memory can be made to The Cal Fund, University of California Berkeley, 2080 Addison Street # 4200, Berkeley, California 94720-4200, 510.642.1212.

Kenneth Myrel Gulick

Kenneth Myrel Gulick was born May 2, 1933, in Faribault, MN, the son of Marvin Eugene Gulick and Elsie Mae (Triggs) Gulick. After graduation from high school, Kenneth enlisted in the Army serving during the Korean War. Upon his return to civilian life, he worked in construction specializing in the electrical and mechanical areas.

On October 3, 1955, Kenneth was united in marriage to Shirley Hogsett. There were five children born to this union: Susan, Brenda, Tina, Theresa, and Marvin. After Shirley’s death in 1995, he continued to live in the Villisca and Red Oak areas.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his wife, parents, daughter Brenda Gulick, brother Jack Gulick, and step-brother Marvin E. Gulick.

Kenneth is survived by four children: Susan (Mike) Blakemore of Omaha, Tina (Kevin) Anderson of Villisca, Teresa (Mark) Johnston of Villisca, and Marvin (Sue) Gulick of Red Oak; sister Delores Gulick of Red Oak; eleven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 30, 2009 at the Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca with burial in the Highland Cemetery, Hamilton, MO, at a later date.

Mary Jo Dart

Funeral services for Mary Jo Dart, age 74, of Fremont, NE, were held on Friday, January 30, 2009, at 2pm in First Lutheran Church in Fremont, NE. The Rev. Norman Freund officiated. Burial was in Ridge Cemetery. Mary Jo was born August 19, 1934. in Villisca, Iowa to Harry and Ethel ‘Lofgren’ Bashaw. She was raised in Villisca and graduated from Villisca High School in 1953. After high school Mary Jo moved to Omaha and began working. She married Frank Dart in Villisca, Iowa on April 24, 1954. The couple moved to Fremont in 1958. In the mid 1960’s they moved to Kearney and lived there for three years before returning to Fremont to raise their family. After returning to Fremont, Mary Jo worked at JC Penney for ten years then for Schweser’s Department Store. Mary Jo moved to Shalimar Gardens in September of 2008. She was a member of First Lutheran Church and a member of the Solos Group of First Lutheran.

She is survived by five daughters: Sue and husband Brad Anderson, of Fremont; Cathy and husband Steve Cerny, of Fremont; Carol and husband Dennis Andersen, of Roswell, New Mexico; Shelly and husband Dean Carroll, of Wayne; Eileen and husband Gerald Boyer, of Fremont; three sons: – Bob and wife Lori Dart, of Fremont; Bryan and wife Susan Dart, of Pembroke Pines, Florida; Scott and wife Vicki Dart, of Gilbert, Arizona; Brother – Herb and wife Wilma Bashaw, of Villisca, Iowa; Brotherin- Law – Jerry and wife Jannelle Dart. of Omaha; 21 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren Special Friends – Solo Sisters of 1st Lutheran Church many nieces and nephews.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her husband Frank in April of 1999, a brother and her parents.

Memorials are suggested to First Lutheran Church.

Ruth M. Gourley

Ruth M. Gourley, age 81, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away Friday, January 30, 2009 at the Penrose Medical Center after a brief illness. Ruth Marie (Confer) Gourley was born February 9, 1927 in Red Oak, Iowa the daughter of John and Frances (Wolfe) Confer. She graduated from the Red Oak High School in 1944. She worked for the Union Pacific Railroad in Omaha during World War II and then the Land Bank in Red Oak before her marriage to Clyde Gourley, Jr. on March 28, 1948 at the First Christian Church in Red Oak. They farmed north of Villisca, Iowa and then Guss, Iowa before moving to Lakewood, Colorado in 1952. They moved to Colorado Springs in 1957. Ruth worked as a civil service employee for many years in Colorado Springs and at the Air Force Academy. Her hobbies included genealogy, sewing, and cooking. She even went back to College and got a degree in restaurant management. Ruth also loved Mac computers and she taught herself how to use them. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; brother: Hubert Confer; husband: Clyde Gourley, Jr.; and sister: Mary Burrington. Survivors include her son: Marshall Gourley of Denver, Colorado; daughters: Marsha Frech of Colorado Springs, Colorado and Polly Case and husband Jack of Colorado Springs, Colorado; grandchildren: Sean and Tory Frech of Colorado Springs, Colorado; brother: Marion Confer and wife Connie of Torrington, Wyoming; sister-in-law: Helen Sellergren of Stanton, Iowa; special "sister": Betty Confer of Emerson, Iowa; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 11 AM Thursday, February 5, 2009 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Marshall Gourley officiating. Burial will be in the Arlington Cemetery near Villisca, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held from 7-8 PM Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Robert Earl Brown

Robert Earl Brown was born in rural Jackson Township of Guthrie County, Iowa on May 20, 1928. His parents were Rex and Lovina (Tam) Brown. The oldest of five children, he had three brothers Harold LaVerne (Elaine) of Indianola, Iowa, Carroll Dean (Ruth) of Gambrills, Maryland, Lloyd Alvin (Lila) of Marana, Arizona, and a sister, Marjorie Juanita (Warren) Shade of Paris, Arkansas.

He grew up in the rural area near Linden, Iowa and attended all 12 years of school being graduated from Linden High School. He attended Central College at Pella, Iowa and worked at the Central Park Café where he met Joyce Verniece Den Adel and was united to her in marriage on June 7, 1949. To this union were born four children: Charm Faith (John) Smith of Tabor, Iowa, Starr Tiara (Doyle) Scott of Winterset, Iowa, Chele Diahn (Scott) Garder of Blair, Nebraska, and Shawn Robin (Angela) of Bloomington, Minnesota.

After marriage, Bob worked in various businesses in Pella for two years and then took a job with an independent grocer for three years. In 1952 he joined National Biscuit Company as a salesman. In 1955 he was hired by Hy-Vee Food Stores and stayed with them for 32 years until his retirement in 1987. He started in Bethany, Missouri, went to Corning, Iowa in 1958 as a market manager and later became the assistant manager, and moved to Villisca in 1961 as the store manager. He finished his career in Clarinda.

Bob was an active community member being involved in multiple things and serving as a member and officer of many organizations including the Villisca Development Corporation, Villisca Housing Board, Villisca Chamber of Commerce, Villisca Commercial Club, Villisca Library Board, Villisca City Council, Villisca Presbyterian Church where he resurrected and directed the Bell Choir, Clarinda Presbyterian Church, and was the secretary/treasurer and leading winner of the Saturday Morning Pea Poker Club. He was instrumental in the building of the Villisca Good Samaritan center, was on its board for many years, and after retirement was a volunteer van driver. He was selected as an Honorary Chapter Farmer by the Villisca FFA and was honored as the Villisca Citizen of the Year in 1990. In addition to these activities, his favorite past times were spent with his family and friends as well as traveling, cooking, woodworking, and doing carpentry. His grandkids will always remember his Grandpa Brown breakfasts.

Bob passed away at Good Samaritan Center in Villisca, Iowa on January 21, 2009 at the age of 80.

In death he has rejoined his wife, father, mother, brothers Dean and Lloyd, and brother-in-law Warren. His children, twelve grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren survive him.

Funeral services were held at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Clarinda on Saturday, January 24, 2009 with Pastor Bob Keefer officiating. Internment was at the Villisca Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Villisca Good Samaritan Staff Scholarship Endowment Fund in c/o Starr Scott, 1711 Patricia Acres Winterset, IA 50273.

Aaron Dean Yardas

Aaron Dean Yardas, the son of William Dean Yardas and Carla Rae Erickson, was born December 4, 1988 at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. He died on Sunday, January 25, 2009 in Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 20 years, 1 month and 21 days.

As a son of an Air Force family, Aaron lived all over the world. From 1988 to 1998, Aaron lived at Decimononico Air Base, Italy; Griffiss Air Force Base, New York; Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio; Sembach Air Bas

e, Germany; and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. In July of 1998, Aaron along with his mom and sister made their home in Red Oak, IA. Aaron was a sports enthusiast, while in school he participated in football, basketball and baseball. Aaron had a heart for baseball and he excelled especially as a catcher. Aaron had an arm on him and found himself on the mound pitching at times too. He graduated with the Red Oak High School class of 2007. He was currently employed at Agri Solutions, Red Oak and also helped Healthy Turf Lawn Care, Red Oak. He enjoyed the outdoors and especially spending time with family and friends camping, hunting, fishing, boating and golfing. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to others, particularly to his Uncle Larry on the farm and his Grandma Marjorie mowing her yard. His love for sports led him to coach children for the YMCA baseball and basketball programs; he also refereed. Aaron not only loved playing and coaching sports but also watching them. He was an avid Pittsburg Steelers fan. Aaron was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Red Oak. His beautiful smile will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Aaron was preceded in death by his grandfather, Marion Erickson.

Survivors include mother: Carla Yardas of Red Oak, IA; sister: Kristi Yardas of Red Oak, IA; father: William Dean Yardas and his wife Deanna of Brooksville, FL; maternal grandmother: Marjorie Erickson of Stanton, IA; paternal grandparents: William and Ada Yardas of Finleyville, PA; great grandmother: Dorothy Yardas of Finleyville, PA; aunts and uncles: Cheryl and Larry Haynie of Stanton, IA; Debra Dunblazier of Glenwood, IA; Dorothy and George Kutscher of Elrama, PA; Joanne and Mike Chanko of Donora, PA; Andrew and Theresa Yardas of Sheridan, IN; step-brothers and sisters: Danielle, Derek, Desiree and Dustin Pugh, all of Brooksville, FL; cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Service will be held on
Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 10:30 a.m.
Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Red Oak
Burial in Evergreen Cemetery, Red Oak
Rev. Dr. George Hooper, Officiating

Visitation with the family present will be Friday, January 30 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

A memorial is being established in Aaron's name.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Services entrusted to Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

William Lee Fletcher

William Lee Fletcher was born in Taylor County, Iowa near Siam on April 1, 1939, the son of Wilbur Remind and Eathel Nevela (Fleming) Fletcher. Bill grew up in the New Market, Iowa area where he attended schools. Bill passed away January 23, 2009 at the Red Oak Hospital.

After his formal schooling, he worked for the Shorty McCoy farm for several years. He was married to Linda Sparks for fourteen years. Bill drove for the Peerless Laundry route for ten years. In April of 1975, he started work at NSK, where he remained until retiring in August 2002.
He and companion Kathy Solt Racine had lived in Villisca for twenty five years. Most recently Bill had lived in Villisca, with his special friend Pat Reynolds, for the past three years. Bill liked the farm all of his life and was especially fond of horses.

Surviving are his daughter, Heather Orr and husband Glenn of Creston; four grandchildren, Kimberly, Hallie, Jenna, and Brett; one sister, Ona Wyleen Thompson and husband Max of Mountain Home, Arkansas; and nieces and nephews; Joyce Larson and husband Lyndal of New Market, Iowa, Vickie Crosby and husband Rex of Clarinda, Iowa, Lisa Foster and husband Dusty of Shambaugh, Iowa, and Ronnie Fletcher and wife Kelly of Villisca, Iowa; several grand nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents, one brother Carl Fletcher; and one sister, Barbara Moses.
Funeral services for William Lee Fletcher were held10:00 a.m., January 28, 2009 at the Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa, with interment at the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation was held at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.. The Tradition of Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa has served the family.

Virginia Geraldine Waldron

Virginia Geraldine Waldron, the daughter of Noland O. and Virginia C. (Spencer) Wooden, was born May 9, 1918, in Lee's Summit, Missouri, and passed away Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa.

Virginia grew up in the Shenandoah area where she attended school. She was united in marriage to George Waldron on May 9, 1934 in Shenandoah, Iowa. They farmed all of their married life in the Page and Taylor County area. Virginia also enjoyed gardening, both, flowers and vegetables. She spent many hours canning her produce from her gardens. She baked bread, churned her own butter, and raised and dressed chickens. Virginia loved to have fun playing games including cards and enjoyed time with her family and especially the grandchildren. She enjoyed playing the piano by ear and spent many hours fishing with George. Holidays were always a special time to the family as Virginia always celebrated and loved to have fun. She was a faithful woman who spent many hours every day reading her Bible and praying for others. She was a blessing to all who knew her.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband: George on February 23, 2002; her sons: Phillip, Gary, Robert, and Tommy Waldron; and sisters: Ralphena Carlson and Betty Wilson.

Survivors include her children: Noladean Waldron of Villisca, Iowa; Marian Thomas and husband Dale of Coin, Iowa; James Waldron and wife Sherry of Villisca; Sandra Knizley and husband Eric of Coin; William Waldron and wife Vicki of Ft. Scott, Kansas; and John Thomas of Cameron, Missouri; 18 grandchildren; 43 great grandchildren; and 11 great great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 11 AM Monday, January 19, 2009 at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah with Rev. Don Barnett officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 7-8 PM Sunday, January 18, 2009 at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel.

Services are entrusted to the Kirsch Funeral Chapel of Shenandoah, Iowa.

Opal M. Gray

Opal M. Gray, 94, formerly of Villisca, died Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 in Higginsville, Missouri. Opal was born Oct 7th, 1914 to John S. Williams and Myrtle Leona Williams near Carson, in Pottawattamie County, Iowa. She was married to Carroll James Gray in Clarinda, Iowa on Aug 3rd, 1935. She was the mother of two, Marlyn Dean and Norma Jean (Doan), who gave her three grandchildren each.

Opal spent most of her adult life farming in southwest Iowa near the towns of Guss, Strand and Villisca. She also worked at the Milligan's cafe and the Green Lantern cafe in Villisca.

When they retired from farming, her and her husband lived in Villisca and enjoyed traveling and fishing. After losing her husband she moved to senior apartments in Corning. She later moved to an assisted living and care center in Higginsville, Missouri were she died of natural causes.

She enjoyed cooking, sewing, and gardening, but, her greatest love was her family. She devoted her life to her husband, children and grandchildren making numerous sacrifices of her own for us. We would never want for anything, be it food, clothing, or something as simple as a hug, as it was already there. She was the mother, and grandmother, that everyone should have. She will be deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, on Aug 28th, 1979; her sister Ruth Holmes on Oct 21st, 1989; her daughter Norma Jean (Charles) on May 1st, 2001; and her son Marlyn (Norma) on Sep 19th, 2001.

Survivors include her sister Wilma Walters (Harold) of Prescott; six grandchildren; Mike Gray (Ellen), Tim Gray (Loretta), Deborah (Doan) Craig (Thomas), Tammy (Doan) Boyer, Jeff Doan (Benita) and Russell Gray (Sherry); and 10 great-grandchildren.

Clarence Franklin Strain

Clarence Franklin Strain age 89 years of Omaha, NE, formerly of Nodaway, IA
WWII Veteran, Omaha Beach D-Day
Preceded in death by wife Evelyn
Survived by Daughters & sons-in-law: Janet & Bill Dewey, Omaha, NE
Jeanne & Tony Maida, Omaha, NE
Jeanette & Ron Schacht, Omaha, Ne
Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren, other relatives & friends
Service Wed. Dec. 31, 2008 at the Kahler-Dolce Mortuary, Papillion, NE
Interment: Cedar Dale Cemetery, Papillion, NE
Memorials to Alzheimers Association
Full military honors

Dorothy I. Vannausdle

Dorothy I. Vannausdle, age 93, of Red Oak, Iowa formerly of Morton Mills, Iowa passed away Monday, December 29, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Care Center after an extended illness. Dorothy Irene Vannausdle was born January 27, 1915 in Emerson, Iowa the daughter of Ivan and Ila (Gilmore) Shook. She graduated as Valedictorian from Emerson High School in 1933. Dorothy was united in marriage to Harold Vannausdle on October 22, 1933 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. They farmed near Emerson and Stennett moving to Morton Mills in 1946 also farming. Harold and Dorothy moved into Morton Mills in 1970 and Harold preceded her in death in 1983. Dorothy has been a resident of the Good Samaritan Care Center since 1995. Dorothy was involved in the Morton Mills Ladies Aid and many neighborhood clubs. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren, her cats, and enjoyed working in her flowers.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Harold on October 2, 1983; son: Duane Vannausdle on February 11, 1995; and sister: Evelyn Ungry. Survivors include her daughter: Donna Finnell of Des Moines, Iowa; daughter-in-law: Shirley Vannausdle of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren: Debbie Bruns and husband George of St. Louis, Missouri; Cyndie Sorensen of Cape Coral, Florida; Bill Finnell of Littleton, Colorado; Brenda Vanderneck and husband Vince of West Des Moines, Iowa; Chris Vannausdle and wife Brenda of Villisca; and Ray Vannausdle of Huxley, Iowa; 11 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.

Graveside funeral services will be held 11 AM Monday, January 5, 2009 at the Emerson, Iowa Cemetery. Visitation with the family will start at 9 AM, Monday, January 5, 2009 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak and we will go to the cemetery in procession.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Harry James Milligan

Harry James Milligan, son of Lonnie Milligan and Faye Van Alstine Milligan was born June 26, 1918 in Taylor County, Iowa and passed away December 2, 2008 at the age of 90 years and five months. Jim grew up in the Guss vicinity and attended country schools there.

He entered the U.S. Army August 20, 1942 and had his basic training at Fort Robinson in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was a T5 and a member of the 12th Calvary. After basic training he boarded a troop ship on May 29, 1943 and headed for action in the Pacific. He was in Brisbane, Australia then to several island groups in the Western Pacific: Bismarck Archipelago, New Guinea, Philippine islands of Luzon, and began ground combat on Leyte June 18, 1943. He earned a combat infantry badge. Jim served two and one-half years overseas and was discharged December 15, 1945.

Following service he worked in the family restaurant (Milligan's Cafe) in Villisca from 1945-1960 and was a Villisca school bus driver for 15 years.

In June 1959 he married Opal Quiggle Ankeny. They made their home in Villisca. He was employed by the city of Villisca for 23 years before his retirement.

He was a member of: The Villisca Fire Department for 45 years, American Legion, VFW since 1945. He served many years on the Villisca Municipal Power Plant Board of Trustees, and served on the Villisca Housing Board.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant sister, and beloved wife, Opal, January 2, 1999.
He is survived by a sister, Treva Milligan of Chicago, IL, cousins and a host of friends.
Services were held Saturday, December 6, 2008 at Wolfe Funeral Home with Rev. Gordon Scott officiating. Interment will be at Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to Villisca Fire Department or the Villisca Ambulance. Wolfe Funeral Home served the family.

Luella Arlene Neal Kernen

Luella Arlene (Neal) Kernen was born April 17, 1919, the daughter of Albert and Effie (Sparger) Neal in Villisca, Iowa, and entered into rest on November 22, 2008, at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa.

She married Theron Kernen on February 15, 1939. Two children were born to this union – Albert William Kernen and Kathryn Ann (Kernen) Bross

Luella left school after the 8th grade but acquired her GED later in life. Luella worked in different businesses in the Villisca area including Winter’s Clothing Store, Helen Lorene Shop, Honeyman Drug Store and Stoner Drug Store from 1961 to 1992 when she retired. She was a member of the Advent Christian Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two brothers – Dennis Neal and James Neal, four sisters – Betty Larson, Ruth Nelson, Mary Farrens, and an infant sister Francis.

She is survived by her son Bill and his wife Leona Kernen of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter Kathryn and husband Richard Bross of Villisca, Iowa; brother Bob and wife Evelyn Neal of Villisca, Iowa; sister Lois Bergren of Red Oak, Iowa; sisters-in-law Lorene Neal of Villisca, Iowa, and Donna Davidson of Waverly, Iowa; six grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, and three great, great grandchildren.

Marjorie Jean Schaffer

Marjorie Jean Schaffer, the daughter of Walter S. and Florence M. (Burley) Maxwell, was born July 16, 1931 on a farm near Guss, Iowa. She died on Friday, November 28, 2008 at Mercy Hospital, Council Bluffs, Iowa at the age of 77 years, 4 months and 12 days.

Jean was raised in the Guss and Villisca areas. She was united in marriage to Cecil Schaffer on June 24, 1947 at Corning, Iowa. Jean and Cecil moved to Red Oak in l955. She worked for Murphy Memorial Hospital and Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak for 41 years. Jean was preceded in death by her parents and husband; Cecil on December 25, 2000.

Jean is survived by her son: Steven Schaffer of Imogene, IA; daughter: Norma Schaffer of Omaha, NE; twin sister: Joan Blume of Clarinda, IA; two brothers: Jay Maxwell of Alamosa, CO; and Gerald Maxwell of Villisca, IA; other relatives and friends.

Jean's wishes were to be cremated and a private family interment will be held at a later date in Evergreen Cemetery, Red Oak, Iowa.

A memorial is being established in Jean's name. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com. Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Larry D. Baker

Larry D. Baker, 77, of Anacortes, died on Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at the family home in Anacortes. He was born on July 17, 1931 in Villisca, Iowa, the son of Carl & Viola (Friedrich) Baker.

Larry lived in the Anacortes area in the 1940’s and graduated from Anacortes High School in 1948. After working at numerous jobs around Anacortes he started to work at Shell Oil Company in 1955 and moved back to Anacortes for good. Larry and his wife lived in the Whistle Lake area and in 1968 he joined the Carpenters Union and made a career change to carpentry. In 1974 he started his own building contracting business and built numerous homes around the Anacortes area before retiring in 1995.

Larry was a very loving father and husband and especially enjoyed spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Carl & Viola Baker and a brother, William Baker.

Larry is survived by his wife, Donna; 2 sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas L. & Teresa Baker and Kenneth A. & Cindi Baker; 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Jill & Loren McLaughlin and Kim Blankenship & Don Norman; grandchildren Thomas R. Baker, Brett R. Baker, Cody A. Gummerman, Wesley A. Gummerman, Racheal M. Baker, Jessica L. Baker, Adam J. Blankenship and Alison D. Blankenship; great-grandchildren Candice, Ranie, & Nevaeh; a brother and sister-in-law, Jim & Verna Baker & family; a sister and brother-in-law, Karen & Nick Dubuque & family and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2008 at Evans Funeral Chapel in Anacortes.. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., Anacortes, WA and the San Juan Islands. To share memories of Larry, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com.

Kathryn Valora Brenton Olson

Kathryn Valora (Brenton) Olson was born June 5, 1918, in Montgomery County north of Villisca, Iowa, the daughter of Oliver S. Brenton and Goldie K. Swallow Brenton.

She attended Grub Bridge Country School and graduated from Villisca High School in the class of 1936. She taught at the Grub Bridge Country School for one year. On December 18, 1937, she married Ernie Olson in Maryville, Missouri. She was a homemaker anywhere she and Ernie farmed in Montgomery and Adams counties. She faithfully attended Strand Evangelical Lutheran Church from the time of her marriage to Ernie. Two children were born to this union: son Jim (Kay) Olson and daughter Saundra (Dick) Brown.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Ernie in 1993; her brothers, sisters & in-laws: Darlene (Virgil) Hayes, Carol (Earl) Scott, Denny (Vera) Brenton, Agnes (Orville) Mitchell, Lucille (Dean) King, John (Violet) Brenton, Lyle (Mable) Brenton, and Floyd Guthrie.

She is survived by her children: Jim (Kay) Olson of Corning and Saundra (Dick) Brown of Wall Lake; 6 grandchildren: Kevin Olson of Corning, Brenda (John) McElwain of Villisca, LuAnn (Chris) Mead of Glenwood, Robin Andersen of Wall Lake, Roger (Wendi) Brown of Council Bluffs, Scott (Michelle) Brown of Underwood; 2 step granddaughters: Karen (Phil) Kinser of Corning and Angie (Tony) Hardisty of Corning; 11 great grandchildren; 11 step great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; 2 step great-great grandchildren; baby sister Fern Guthrie of Oakdale, California; special niece (caregiver) Betty Russell of Corning; numerous nieces and nephews and friends.

Joyce Vernice Brown

Joyce Vernice Brown was born in Marion County, Iowa near Pella on October 13, 1928 the daughter of William and Johanna (Van Englehoven) Den Adel.

She grew up near Pella where she attended European #1 (Bell School) nearby. While working in Pella she met Robert Earl Brown and was united in marriage on June 7, 1949 in Sheldon, Iowa. After their marriage they lived in Pella, Iowa, Ottumwa, Iowa, Maryville, Missouri and Bethany, Missouri, Corning, Iowa, and Villisca, Iowa as Bob was associated with Hy-Vee Food Stores. She was a priority homemaker as well as a bookkeeper for Villisca Hy-Vee, and a receptionist in the office of Dr. James Wyatt in Red Oak, Iowa. She served on the Villisca Pre-School Board, on the Interchurch Council, was a Church Deacon and a Sunday School Teacher, a longtime and honored member of the Presbyterian Women's Association, a confirmation mentor, and also sang in the choir and played in the Bell Choir. Additionally, she was a longtime volunteer hairdresser at the Good Samaritan Center. As a breast cancer survivor, she was an honorary co-chair for Montgomery County Relay for Life in 2008, as well as a longtime participant in various breast groups and projects. In addition to these activities, her favorite past times were spent with her family and friends as well as traveling, being involved in music, cooking, and doing many crafts including crocheting. Joyce died October 23, 2008 at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

In death she rejoined her father, mother, and brother-in-law, Peter Fazio.
Surviving are her husband Bob of Villisca; four children: Charm Faith Smith and husband John of Treynor, Iowa, Starr Tiara Scott and husband Doyle of Winterset, Iowa, Chele Diahn Garder and husband Scott of Blair, Nebraska, and Shawn Robin Brown and wife Angela of Bloomington, Minnesota; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in law, Donald Den Adel and wife Cornelia of Pella, Iowa, Ruth Fazio of Carmel, Indiana, and Fern Uitermarkt and husband Ken of Pella, Iowa; nieces and nephews

Funeral Services for Joyce Vernice Brown were 1:30 p.m. October 26, 2008 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church of Clarinda, Iowa. Lunch and Fellowship at the Church immediately following the service.With Interment at the Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca, Iowa has served the family.

Beryl Eugene Beery

Beryl Eugene Beery was born February 26, 1927 to Ray Calhoon and Netha Marie (Bair) Beery on a farm near College Springs, Iowa. He graduated Amity High School, College Springs, and served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Following his service in the military he returned to Iowa and farmed and was a commercial ground applicator. He also did pest control the last ten years. Beryl was an outdoorsman and especially enjoyed fishing.

Beryl passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 81. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Wendell, and infant sister.

He is survived by his children: son, Milo Beery and wife Tammie of Clarinda and daughter, Lisa L. Rogers of Evergreen, Colorado; grandchildren Mac Drake and husband Nick and their son Dominic David Drake; and Logan Rogers; Colton Beery, Colin Beery, and Jeremy Beery and wife Robin and their daughter, Piper Lynn Beery; brother Bob Beery and wife Edith of Clarinda, Iowa; and sister-in-law Phyllis Beery, Clarinda; significant other, Marlene Teply of Diagonal, Iowa; nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Funeral Services were held 2:00 p.m. Saturday October 25, 2008 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa, with Interment at Maple Hill Cemetery, College Springs, Iowa. Military rites were given by Clarinda American Legion Sergy Post #98. The Tradition of Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa, has served the family.

Donald Marion Smith

Donald Marion Smith, the son of Marion J. and Nora (McGee) Smith was born October 25, 1927 in Henderson, Iowa. He died on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 80 years, 11 months and 26 days.

Don was raised and attended school in Henderson, Iowa. He entered the U.S. Army, serving during WW II. When Don returned from the Army, he farmed with his father in the Henderson area. Don was united in marriage to Wanda Nichols and to this union a son, Mick was born. He later married Opal Peck and to this union a son, Lloyd was born. Don later farmed south of Stanton, Iowa and in 1964, made his home in Stanton. On December 25, 1967, Don was united in marriage to Laurel E. Brown Elwood in Stanton, Iowa. While in Stanton, Don worked as a butcher for Schenck Grocery. He then served the community of Stanton as their police officer for 21 years. Don also drove a school bus for the Stanton Community Schools for 27 years. Don loved to play cards, mainly pitch with his friends. He enjoyed reading Westerns, playing Free Cell on the computer, watching wrestling on TV, passing out candy on Halloween and his steak and onion rings at Viking Lake. Most of all, he loved his family and all the times when they would gather together. Don was a past member of the Christian Church in Henderson, IA. Don served many years as a Stanton volunteer fireman and was a member of the American Legion Ernie Johnson Post #406 of Stanton. Don was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Charles Smith; and great-granddaughter: Madeline Smith.

Don is survived by his wife: Laurel Smith of Stanton, IA; sons and their wives: Mick (Sheryl) Smith of Palermo, ME; Lloyd (Vicki) Smith of Elliott, IA; Rusty (Janet) Elwood of Villisca, IA; Kent (Dena) Elwood of Red Oak, IA; Tom (Christi) Elwood of Stanton, IA; daughters and their husbands: Jackie (Donald) Grassia of McCook, NE; Susan (Kirk) McConnell of Nixa, MO; 29 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; sisters: Ruby Godfrey and husband Don of Emerson, IA; Mrs. Mamie Forward of Red Oak, IA; other relatives and friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service were held Friday, October 24, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home, Red Oak Burial in Farm Creek Cemetery, Henderson, IA Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli, Officiating

Visitation with the family present at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home on Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Memorials to the American Legion Ernie Johnson Post #406 in Stanton or Stanton Fire & Rescue.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Skyler John Dickey

Funeral services for Skyler John Dickey will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, October 2, 2008, at the Villisca United Methodist Church with internment following at Arlington Cemetery.

Sklyer was born August 20, 1984, in Corning, IA, the son of Bryan and LuCinda Baldwin Dickey. He grew up in the Nodaway area residing there until one year ago. Skyler attended school in Villisca graduating in the class of 2003. He then attended Iowa Western Community College in Clarinda for one year. He had worked at the Villisca Detail Center, CDS Global in Red Oak, and was currently employed at the Villisca Municipal Power Plant.

Skyler was fond of all racing including stock cars, ATV's, motorcycles, and snow mobiles. He had been an official at the Adams County Speedway in Corning.

He was active in school activities especially football, was an avid Kansas City Chief fan, and Iowa Hawkeye fan. He also played on the area flag football team.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers Marvin "PeeWee" Baldwin and Robert John Dickey and 1 step-sister Mary Anne Marsh.

Survivors include his mother LuCinda Dickey of Villisca; his father and step-mother Bryan and Angela Dickey of Villisca; his sister Deanna Brown and husband Chris of Omaha; step-brothers Eric Marsh of Villisca and Cody Marsh of Tabor; niece Riley Marsh and nephew Aidan Marsh of Villisca; grandmothers Gloria Baldwin of Nodaway, and Roberta Dickey of Villisca, grandparents Oliver and Mary Jo Herzberg of Villisca; uncle Cliff Baldwin and wife Donelle and their son Evan Baldwin of Nodaway; and other aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca was in charge of arrangements.

Carol Jean Greenfield Lanz

Carol Jean Greenfield was born February 25, 1941, the daughter of Paul “Ted” and Leta Beavers Greenfield in Villisca, Iowa. She grew up in the Villisca area where she attended rural schools including the Fryer school for one year and the Hazel Dell Washington #8 at Tenville through the eighth grade. She then attended Villisca High School through her sophomore year. After her formal schooling she worked at various jobs. She married Larry Lenz on February 7, 1958, in St. Joseph, MO. They celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary earlier this year. To this union four children were born: Deborah, Diana, Kelly, & Scot.

Jean and Larry operated a bar in Corning. She also worked at manufacturing plants in Red Oak and Corning for several years. She was a bartender at the Red Bull and Joe’s Tavern in Corning and she operated a taxi, transporting NFO officials to and from the Des Moines airport when the NFO National Headquarters was located in Corning.

She enjoyed playing cards and was a member of several card clubs over the years. She enjoyed her flowers and was an avid reader. She especially loved caring for her grandchildren and watching them grow.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Leta Greenfield, son Scot Lenz, and step-daughter Cindy Grause.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband Larry Lenz, her three daughters: Deborah Cooney and fiancé Mark Foster of Atchison, KS, Diana Scott and husband Kurt of Corning, Kelly McMullen and husband Frank of Otoe, NE; step-daughter Connie Dowling and husband Reed of West Des Moines; daughter-in-law Cheryl of Billings, MT; step son-in-law Dan Grause of Nevada; 15 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren;brother Joe Greenfield and wife Marjorie of Red Oak; sister Janet Haley and husband Tom of Nodaway; mother-in-law Veta Beal of Corning; nieces; nephews; cousins; and close friends.

Jean died Wednesday , September 24, 2008, in Omaha, NE. Her funeral services were held Saturday, September 27, 2008, at the Wolfe Funeral Home with burial in the Arlington Cemetery of rural Villisca. Rev. Ken Rummer officiating. Memorial may be made to the family.

Marcella Rae (Greenfield) Reser

Marcella Rae (Greenfield) Reser, 59 of Denver, Colorado, formerly of Villisca, Iowa, died August 20, 2008, in Denver. Marcella was born March 18, 1949, in Clarinda the daughter of Murl and Reva (Cooney) Greenfield. She graduated from high school in 1967. She had most recently been employed as a secretary for the City and County of Denver Assessor’s office in Denver, Colorado. Marcella enjoyed creating colorful paintings that have been seen by many in the Denver area.

Marcella was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her sister Marilyn & husband Alan Gridley of Villisca, IA; nieces: Trudy and husband Steve Swenson of Villisca, IA, Mindy Gridley-Laycock and husband Rob of Ankeny, IA, Lisa Huppe and husband Jean-Francois of Canada; nephew: Kennon & wife Katie Gunderman of Minnesota; grand nieces and nephews: Jackson, Cole, Felix, Delilah, and Penelope.

Robert Chester Weil, 77, formerly of Clarinda, IA passed away on Friday, March 7, 2008 at the Iowa Veteran's Home in Marshalltown, IA after a short illness. Mr. Weil was born on Feb. 8, 1931 in Gravity, Iowa to Chester Harvey and Gertrude Belle (Akers) Weil. He was raised in Elliott and Villisca areas. He was a 1949 graduate of Villisca High School. On Feb. 19, 1950 he married Heraldine Marie Moore of Guss, IA. They moved to Clarinda shortly after marriage where Bob was employed at Berry's Poultry Farm, and Farmers Co-Op. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1951. Upon his return from the Army in 1952, he worked for Modem Cleaners. From '55-'58 he owned Bob's Conoco Station in Clarinda. From '58-'60 he was employed at the Coast to Coast Hardware Store. He began working at the Clarinda Hardware in 1960 and was employed there for eleven years. In 1966 he completed a home study course on locksmithing and opened his own business known as Bob's Repair Service. He repaired bicycles, lawn mowers, sewing machines and was the only locksmith in Clarinda for many years. In 1971, Mr. Weil began his employment with the Clarinda Community School System as a janitor and maintenance man. He worked for the schools until 1988 when he retired. He continued to operate Bob's Repair Service until 1995. Mr. & Mrs. Weil divorced in 1996 and Geraldine moved to the Marshalltown area in 1997. Bob moved to the Iowa Veteran's Home in July 2007 due to increasing health care needs and to be closer to his daughter, Denise, and her family in Marshalltown.

Survivors include his daughter, Denise Sowards and husband Kim of Marshalltown, one granddaughter, Crystal (Spinter) Schrader and her husband, Keith, of Cedar Falls, IA and one grandson, Austin Weil of Cedar Falls.

Preceding him in death were his father Chester in 1984, his brother, Ronald in 1992 and his mother Gertrude in 2003.

Stanley Johnson

Funeral services for Stanley Johnson, 91, of Villisca, Iowa were held Saturday, September 20th, 2008, at 10:00AM at the Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca with interment in the Villisca Cemetery. Rev Sandra Wainwright Rossander officiating. Stanley died September 17th, 2008.

Stanley R. Johnson was born October 1st, 1916 in Montgomery County to Leslie R and Hazel Nelson Johnson. He grew up in Morton Mills, Iowa, a small community North of Villisca, Iowa, where his father and uncle purchased a grocery store when Stanley was 4 years old. After grade school in Morton Mills he attended Villisca High School, graduating in 1933. He worked as a farm hand until he and his father started farming in 1937.

In 1942 he enlisted in the Navy Reserves. He was a 3rd class petty officer serving on a heavy cruiser as a signalman. After an honorable discharge he returned home to farming and married Dorothe M. Kernen. The observed their 63rd wedding anniversary on December 3rd, 2007. After moving a few times, they purchased a farm Northeast of Villisca where they lived for 25 years. They then moved into Villisca where they resided until the time of his death.

During his farming years, Stanley was selected as one of the Master Swine producers of Iowa in 1954. He also served on the Soil and Conservation Board in Adams County and on the Nodaway School Board. He was a past Commander of Nodaway American Legion, receiving a 62-year consecutive member certificate in 2008. In 1963 Stanley was appointed Postmaster at the Nodaway Post Office, retiring from there in January 1st, 1982. Stanley was a great sports fan enjoying baseball in particular and playing that sport for several years after high school on area ball clubs.

He is survived by his wife Dorothe, daughter Jane Johnson of Kansas City, Missouri; son Bob Johnson and wife Sue of Omaha, Nebraska and daughter Ann Murphy of Marshalltown, Iowa; three grandchildren: Matt of San Francisco, California, Molly of Omaha, Nebraska and Staci of Marshalltown, Iowa; one sister Eloise Crowe of Red Oak, Iowa; two step brothers-in-law Kenneth Kernen and Henry Jr. Kernen; several nieces and nephews.

His parents and brother Merlin preceded him in death.

John "Lucky" W. Stalder

Graveside services for John "Lucky" W. Stalder, age 94, of Villisca, formerly of Corning, were held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, September 3, 2008, at the Methodist Grove Cemetery, southwest of Brooks, Iowa. Rev. Lauri Greenlee officiated.

John was born November 21, 1913, in Brooks, Iowa, son of James Clarence Stalder and Elsie Ethel Myer Stalder. He married Lolita Jo Denton-Huges on January 16, 1946, in Reno, Nevada. He was employed with Yancey Company, in Reno, for 33 years and served as Superintendent of Construction. John was a lifetime member of the Untied Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America, Local #971, in Reno.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lolita Jon on March 9, 1991 and son, Dennis James on October 4, 1992. He is survived by daughter-in-law, Janice Stalder of Copperas Cove, TX; sister, Ethelda Stillinger of Lenox, IA; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Memorials may be directed to the Brooks United Methodist Church or the Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center, Activities Department. On-line condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com. Perason-Coen-Beatty Family Funeral Services of Creston were in charge of arrangements.

Robert C. WIlliams

Richard C. Williams, 68, of Villisca, Iowa, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2008, at his home. Richard Charles Williams was born on March 18, 1940, in rural Adams County near Brook, Iowa, the son of Walter Samuel Williams and Lucile (Smith) Williams. He attended school in Nodaway graduating in 1958. He joined the Army in 1959 serving as an Artillery Surveyor. He also trained as a driver, mechanic, and parachutist. He was honorably discharged in 1962. He farmed and did carpentry work as well as driving a school but for the Villisca Community Schools.

Richard Married Deloris Akers on September 18, 1965, at the Corning Methodist Church in Corning, Iowa. They were blessed with three children; Charles, Kathy, and Thomas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Walter Williams Jr. and his sister Ardis Sepanak. He is survived by his wife Deloris of Villisca, IA; two sons: Charles (Claudia Schubert) Williams of Villisca, IA, and Thomas (Tricia) Williams of Corning, IA; daughter Kathy Marshall of Villisca, IA; one brother Jim (Priscilla) Williams of Villisca; seven grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Robert Edwin Garey

Robert Edwin Garey, 85, of Columbia passed away September 23, 2008 at Boone Hospital Center after a short illness.

Visitation was from 5 to 7 pm Friday September 26, with memorial service following at Calvary Episcopal Church in Columbia. He made a Gift of Body to the University of Missouri so there will be no burial at this time.

Robert was born on December 24, 1922 in Villisca, Iowa to Ray and Opal Strain Garey. He married Gail Box in May 1982. He was self employed in farming and was a horse trainer before his retirement. He was an Army veteran and served in Germany during World War II.

He is survived by his wife Gail of the home, two sisters Dorothy Odson and husband Glenn of Corning, IA; Virginia Simet and husband Tom of Des Moines, IA; brother Bill Garey and wife Bonnie of Villisca, Iowa; son Ronald Garey of Crawford, NE; daughters Sharon Cotten and husband Randy of Holdenville, OK; Marcia Oman and husband Conrad of Wheatland WY; step-daughter Alyssa Sapp and husband Brian and granddaughter Brianna Sapp of Columbia. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Maxine Haffner, Pauline Wheeler and Lola Odson; and granddaughter Christina Sapp.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Ave, Miami, Fl 33136.

Cathy Susan "Susie" Bowling

Funeral services for Cathy Susan "Susie" Bowling, age 55 of Villisca, Iowa, who died Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at the Norman Regional Hospital, Norman, Oklahoma were held Monday, September 8, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa with Reverend Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with the family was held Sunday, September 7, 2008 in the afternoon from 3 to 5 at the Methodist Church in Villisca, Iowa. Burial was in the Arlington Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials can be directed to the First United Methodist Church in Villisca or the Clarinda Lutheran School. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Cathy Susan "Susie" Bowling was born January 2, 1953, in Enid, Oklahoma the daughter of Carl Bowling and Patsy (Huddleston) Bowling. Susie grew up attending school, graduating from the Villisca High School with the Class of 1971. She then attended one year of college at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri. Two children were born to bless her life, Stacie and Michael.

Susie was an avid Oklahoma fan. She enjoyed traveling and going to her winter home in Texas. She loved her dog "Patches" and enjoyed taking him with her on her trips. She was a wonderful grandmother to Jocie Rea and Kaden, and she always looked forward to spending time with them. Recently, she had been actively involved in planning the wedding of her son, Michael to his fiancé, Lydia Tang. Susie was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women in Villisca as well as a member of the CAH Home Care. She also enjoyed listening to country music.

Left to cherish Susie's memory are mother and step-father, Patsy and Ed Greenfield of Villisca; her two children, Stacie Van De Grift and husband Kirk and their children, Jocie Rea and Kaden all of Clarinda; Michael Strait and fiancé Lydia Tang of Villisca; and two brothers, Donnie Bowling and wife Bobby of Fayetteville, North Carolina; and Mike Bowling of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; five sisters, Carla Johnson of Claremore, Oklahoma; Shari Fulton and husband Lee of Nodaway; Marcia Sunderman and husband Byron of Villisca; Cindy Hoffman and husband Brad of Murphy, Texas; and Kim Savage of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and her loving dog "Patches"; along with many other relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Susie in death are her father, Carl Bowling and step-mother, Alberta Bowling.

Susie will be missed, her memory will live on and her presence will fill our hearts forever.

Alice Jeanette Weseen

Alice Jeanette Weseen, the daughter of Edward and Selina (Anderson) Weseen was born October 31, 1922 in Stanton, Iowa. She passed away on Saturday, August 30, 2008 at the Griswold Care Center, Griswold, Iowa at the age of 85 years, 9 months and 30 days.

Alice was raised in Stanton, Iowa. She was confirmed at Mamrelund Lutheran Church on June 13, 1937. In 1941, Alice graduated from Stanton High School at the top of her class as valedictorian. She continued on with her education, graduating from Business College at Rock Island, Illinois. Alice began working for the Rock Island Arsenal. In 1946, she moved to Omaha, Nebraska where she went to work as an accountant for Burlington Railroad. Alice was transferred to Lincoln, Nebraska in 1977. She retired from the railroad after 40 years of service. Following retirement she moved back to Omaha, NE. Alice moved to Red Oak in 2002 where she lived at Arlington Place and Regency Retirement. On March 1, 2008 she moved to Fox Run Assisted Living in Council Bluffs, IA. Alice was a member of the National Association of Railroad Business Women of Omaha, NE and was a 50-year member of Beta Sigma Phi. She loved to travel and took many trips. She enjoyed photography, taking pictures of her many trips and sharing them with family and friends. She enjoyed staying in touch with loved ones and was faithful at sending birthday and Christmas cards. Alice had a green thumb producing beautiful African Violets. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters: Eunice Weseen and Lillian Benskin Lewis; brothers-in-law: Floyd Benskin, Lawrence Lewis and Donald Bates; niece: Shirley Gerdes; and nephew: Gary Bates.

Alice is survived by her sister: Elsie Bates of Griswold, IA; nieces: Sharon Goldsmith and husband Kent of Marion, IA; Barbara Schroeder and husband Ron of Griswold, IA; Joanne Vogliardo and husband Mike of Polk City, IA; nephews: Don Benskin and wife Betty of Omaha, NE; Dennis Benskin and wife Diane of Boise, ID; Jerry Bates and wife Diane of Grant, IA; Jim Bates and wife Sandra of Stanton, IA; many great-nieces & nephews; great-great-nieces & nephews; along with other relatives and friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home, Red Oak, Iowa; Burial in Mamre Cemetery, Stanton, IA; Rev. Terry McClain, Officiating

Visitation with the family present one hour prior to the funeral service on Wednesday, September 3 at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

Memorials to the Swedish Heritage & Cultural Center of Stanton, Iowa or Post Polio Syndrome Research.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Dr. Doris M. Cartwright

Dr. Doris M. Cartwright, 90, of Bettendorf, Iowa, died Thursday, August 28, 2008 at Trinity at Terrace Park, Bettendorf. Celebration of Life services will be held at 1 PM Friday, September 5th, at Weerts Funeral Home, Kimberly at Jersey Ridge, Davenport. Visitation will be 5-7 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Private burial will be in Davenport Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the family.

Dr. Cartwright was born in 1918 in Hopkins, Missouri to Donald W. and Bessie M. Leighton. She married Dr. Lewis G. Cartwright on December 29, 1937 in Rockport, Missouri. He died July 30, 1996. A graduate of the former Marycrest College and Palmer College of Chiropractic continued to practice chiropractic with her husband Lewis, totaling nearly 40 years, and retired in 1988. Her memberships included St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Davenport, Order of the Eastern Star, the White Shrine, and the Red Hat Copperettes.

, she taught those with learning disabilities for 29 years. She retired from teaching in 1983. She Doris enjoyed being a grandmother most of all and cherished time spent with her family.

Doris is survived by her children; sons: Donald (Lois) Cartwright, of Davenport, Robert (Sandra) Cartwright, of York, PA, and daughter Linda (Thomas) Behning, of Pleasant Valley; grandchildren: Steve (Louise) Cartwright of Denver, Colorado, Kim Cartwright (Zack Rumler) of Moline, Illinois, Kari (Bruce) Morris of Columbus, Mississippi, Bryan Cartwright of Eldridge, Iowa, Kelly Cartwright Romano (Bill) of Lancaster, PA, Kirby Cartwright, of York, PA, Kyle Cartwright, of Tokyo, Japan, Tim (Gedean) Behning of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, T.J. (Heidi) Behning of Bettendorf, Tammi Behning Manser (Simon) of Davenport, and Tara Behning (Jorge Lira) of Davenport; great-grandchildren: Amanda Oakes, Hailey Behning, Carley Behning, Sophia Romano, Brody Behning, Brady Behning, and Addie Behning, Tomas Lira, Rikkey Rumler, and step great-grandchilden: Patrick Manser, Amanda Morris, and Stacy Morris.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Dr. Darwin Leighton and a sister at birth, Waive Lucille.

Online condolences may be expressed to Dr. Cartwright's family by visiting her obituary at www.WeertsFH.com.

Sharon Ann Vianelli

Sharon Ann Vianelli was born May 1, 1945 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the daughter of Lloyd and Bonnie (Nance) Jackson. She passed away on Tuesday morning, August 26, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 63 years, 3 months and 25 days.

Sharon grew up in the Villisca area and graduated from Villisca High School in 1963. On August 27, 1977, she was united in marriage to Eugene Vianelli in Coin, Iowa. Sharon lived in California for ten years and in 1980 she and Eugene made their home outside of Essex, Iowa.

Sharon worked as a cashier for Pamida. She worked in the Shenandoah store until it closed. She then transferred to the Red Oak store and worked there until her health forced her to stop. Sharon loved to cook and in high school she won the Crisco Award. She was also an avid 4-H member growing up. Later in life she became a 4-H leader. Most of all, Sharon loved her family.

She was preceded in death by her father, Lloyd Jackson. Survivors include her husband Eugene, of Essex, Iowa; her mother, Bonnie Jackson of Coin, Iowa; her children, James Sunderman and his wife Amy of Glenwood, Iowa, Kevin Sunderman and his wife Susan of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Angela Cheers of Ortonville, Michigan; step-son, Gino Vianelli of Los Angeles, California; eight brothers and sisters, Janice Willett and her husband Donnie of Corning, Iowa, Jerry Jackson and his wife Susan of Henderson, Nevada, Bonnie Gray and her husband Seymour of Des Moines, Iowa, Connie Dake and her husband Jim of Des Moines, Iowa, Donald Jackson and his wife Phyllis of Storm Lake, Iowa, Mike Jackson of Villisca, Iowa, Randy Jackson and his wife Peggy of Villisca, Iowa, Merrie Jackson of Omaha, Nebraska; 10 grandchildren, Megan Sunderman, Kaileigh Jacobs, Sabrina Livermore, Dalton Campbell, Elijah Sunderman, Alexis Sunderman, Isabell Sunderman, Miranda Cheers, Ethan Cheers, Jared Cheers; along with many other relatives and friends.

Memorial services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 29, 2008 at the United Methodist Church in Coin, Iowa with Rev. James Buckhahn officiating. Burial was in the Blanchard Cemetery at Blanchard, Iowa. Visitation with the family present was held on Thursday evening, august 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah. Memorials were suggested to the Heartland Hospice in Red Oak, Iowa. To leave online remembrances or condolences with the family, go to www.kirschfuneral.com. The Kirsch Funeral Chapel of Shenandoah was in charge of arrangements.

Frances E. Findley

Frances E. Findley, of Pittsburg, PA., born in Villisca, Iowa, on March 8, 1919, passed away July 2, 2008.

Frances married the late Denzil Findley in 1936 and they moved to California in 1943. When he retired from U.S. Steel in the 1970’s they decided to move to Central Point Oregon and pursue a second career of chicken farming. They were able to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary before Denzil’s death in 2001. Frances then returned to Pittsburg, living with her daughter Judy.

Frances is survived by her daughter Judy Dawson of Pittsburg, 3 Grandsons; Demetrios, Douglas and Dennis Katrones and 1 granddaughter Deborah Moreno and her husband Fred. 5 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren as well as a brother Tom Smith of Antioch, along with a very special canine friend, Albert.

She was preceded in death by her husband and her son Gene Findley who died in 1991. Donations are preferred to the Animal Rescue Foundation 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, Calif. or to a favorite charity.

Neil Robert McAlpin

A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday. August 18. 2008, in Polson, Montana, at the Grogan Funeral Home. Neil Robert McAlpin died on the family farm in Polson August 14, 2008, of natural causes. Neil was born February 14, 1934, near Villisca, Iowa, on the family farm to Lottie (Thompson) and Robert McAlpin. After college, Lottie taught school in Sunny Slope and Bigfork while Robert worked for the USDA in Dubois. They married and settled in Iowa, but a love of the West led them to sell that farm and bring their children to Polson in 1940, purchasing the former Gov. Joseph Dixon Ranch on the South Shore. Neil graduated from Polson High in 1952. He attended Carleton College and finished his formal education at Montana State College in Bozeman, majoring in Zoology.

After teaching for a short time at Polson High, he married Randa Colvill and they purchased the family farm. Together, Neil and Randa have spent the last 48 years raising children, grandchildren and crops on the shore of Flathead Lake. They are also known for 38 years of innovative dairying on their farm. Later in life Neil developed a passion for building and flying radio control airplanes, which he was doing when he passed away. Neil would want to be remembered for his service to community, on boards including the Lake County Junior Fair, Mission Valley Dairy Cooperative, and Polson Rural Fire District. He led 4-H clubs and Cub Scout troops locally and served on the Producers Committee for Milk Quota, and board of the Montana State University Agriculture Research Stations for Montana. He was equally proud of the accomplishments of his own children as of the accomplishments of the numerous young people to whom he taught the values of hard work on the farm. His greatest joy was teaching his grandchildren a love for nature, being outdoors and working with their hands. God has a farmer now.

Neil is survived by his wife of 48 years Randa, sons Ken (Gina) of Ronan, Dave (Beth O’Halloran) of Missoula, and daughter Barbara Margaris (Mel) of Great Falls; as well as siblings Ross McAlpin (Marylou) of Bigfork, Alice Forbes (Dale) of Great Falls, four grandchildren, and other extended family. Memorials can be made to the Lake County 4-H Foundation, 300 – 3rd Avenue, Ronan, MT 59864.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com

Helen Margarget Blackburn

Funeral services for Helen Margaret Blackburn, 100, of Grant, Iowa, were held at the Grant United Methodist Church of Grant, Iowa, on Thursday, August 21, 2008, with burial in the Grant Cemetery. Helen died Monday, August 18, 2008, at Mable Rose Estates in Papillion, Nebraska. She was born on May 4, 1908, at Grant, Iowa, the daughter of William Blackburn and Lucy Ann (Cozad) Blackburn.

She grew up in Grant where she attended school, graduating from Grant High School in 1926. She took normal training and taught school in Grant, Elliott, and Griswold for over 45 years. Helen added to her credentials by attending summer school for many years in Omaha and then at Drake University in Des Moines. She was an 80 year member of the Grant United Methodist Church, a member of the choir as well as a Sunday school teacher, and a member of the Grant United Methodist Women. She was also a member of the Grant American Legion Auxiliary for over 60 years and of the Iowa Retired School Personnel organization.

After living in the same home in Grant all of her life, Helen moved to the Griswold Care Center at age 95. For the past three years she lived at the Mable Rose Estates in Papillion, NE. Longevity ran in the family with sisters living well into their 80’s and 90’s.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, four sisters and two brothers.

She is survived by her nieces and nephews: Phyllis Steinberg of Omaha, Larry (Marlene) Campbell of Lawton, OK, Connie (Bill) Bray of LaVista, NE, Carole Campbell of Flagstaff, AZ, and Jim (Pat) Campbell of Fremont, NE; and many great nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Grant United Methodist Church or the Griswold Education Association. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca in charge of the arrangements.

GERALD FLETCHER PENTON

Gerald Fletcher Penton was born on November 8, 1937, on the farm southwest of Villisca to Waldo Willett Penton and Elzene Loletta Gourley. He died Thursday, August 7, 2008, at his home. Jerry farmed and was the custodian at the Villisca United Methodist Church for 20 years retiring in 1999. After he retired from farming, Jerry enjoyed coffee and conversation with friends often entertaining others with his sarcastic humor and pointed wit.

He leaves his wife of 37 years Sandra; son Brian (Lynn) Penton of Houston, TX; step-children: Dan (Carol) Snow of Lincoln, NE; Karyn Snow of Lincoln, NE; and Angela Ritz of St. Louis, MO; daughter Julie (Nelson) Robinson and family of North Liberty, IA; sons: Joseph Penton and Steven Penton and their families; grandchildren: Abbey, Allison and Amber Penton of Houston, TX; step-grandchildren: Philip, Emery & Clarissa Snow of Lincoln, NE, and Ryan & Beth Ritz of St. Louis, MO; special friend and companion Phred. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law Steve Ritz.

Memorials to the Heartland Home Health Hospice or the Villisca United Methodist Church.

A Celebration of Life gathering will take place on Wednesday, August 13, 2008, in the Fellowship Hall of the Villisca United Methodist Church. The family will greet friends and share memories at this time. Burial of ashes will take place at a later date.

Arthur Donovan Warnaca

Funeral services for Donovan Warnaca, 65, of La Vista Nebraska, formerly of Villisca, were held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2008, at Bethany Funeral Home Chapel in La Vista Nebraska. Reverend Jim Cunningham officiated the service.

Donovan passed away Tuesday, July 22, at Bergan Mercy hospital in Omaha, Nebraska.

Donovan was born February 8th, 1943, to Florinda and Arthur Warnaca. Donovan grew up on a farm just East of Villisca. He attended Villisca High School and graduated by attending night classes at the high school.

On August 6, 1959, Donovan and Patricia Ann Shrimpton were married at Nodaway, Methodist Church. He worked at Villisca Hy-Vee and Corning Hy-Vee until he went to work for Clark Construction in Villisca. They moved to Omaha, Nebraska in 1962, and he got a job in the laborers union and worked construction at Western Electric Co. for 10 years. He then got in to Millswright Union Local #1463 where he became a journeyman millwright and worked for them for 20 years and retired at 55 years of age. He was quite a sportsman. He loved deer hunting with a rifle and a bow in Nebraska and Wyoming, going for bear in Montana and camping, fishing and boating all over the Midwest. He was always a dedicated Husker Fan and loved to collect new and old guns. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles. They traveled through South Dakota on a Honda Goldwing one summer visiting good friends in Rapid City, they spent a winter in Florida, took kids and grandchildren to Texas and Kansas City. There are so many good memories and they had so much fun. He was a very hard worker all of his life. Never could sit still long. He loved to meet people and talk. He had many wonderful friends and neighbors. Most important in his life was his family. Since they all live in Omaha, he saw them quite often and loved it. Every Christmas Eve the family was all there. Donovan and Patricia enjoyed a good life together. August 6, 2008, would have been 49 years together.

Donovan leaves his wife Pat, son David Donovan Warnaca and grandson Justin of La Vista, Nebraska, daughter Christine McCart of Omaha, Nebraska, granddaughter Dawn Marie Gates, husband Bruce and 7 year old great grandson Jacob Donovan Gates of Papillion, Nebraska, Grandson Steven McCart and great grandson Stevie age 2 and great granddaughter Madison age 4 of Omaha, Nebraska, grandson Michael McCart and wife Jennifer and great grandson Mike age 2 of Omaha, Nebraska. He also loved his pets KeKe, Casey, Jack, Sabbeth and Brandy.
His golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands laid to rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us he only takes the best!

Memorials may be made to the family.

We all love and miss him so.

Floris Roverta McKinley

Floris Roverta McKinley, 84, was born August 1, 1923, in Villisca, Iowa, the daughter of Clifford Thompson Kelley and Lorene Amelia (Stokesbary) Kelley. She passed away Saturday, July 26, 2008, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska.

She graduated from the Villisca Community School. On June 26, 1953, she married Merl McKinley. She worked at the EverReady Carbon Plant in Red Oak in the assembly department for 31 ½ years. She retired from EverReady in 1985. She loved stock car races, going for night rides with Merl, camping and fishing. She also enjoyed her dolls and stuffed animals.

Floris was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter Amelia Ellen, two brothers: James Kelley and Thomas Kelley, and 3 sisters: Burdena Pettengill, Eudora Greenlee, Mary Lou Cords, and Florence Kelley. She is survived by her husband Merl of Villisca, IA; a son Glen (Gloria) Bales of Des Moines, IA; brother Robert (Jo) Kelley of Surprise, AZ; and two sisters: Hytha Kinnersley of Red Oak, IA, and Dwylla Stevenson of Clarksville, AR; grandchildren; great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Floris were held Wednesday, July 30, 2008, at the Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca with burial in the Villisca Cemetery. Pastor Kevin Skipworth officiating. Memorial may be made to the family.

Myrtle Lenora Larson

Myrtle Lenora Larson was born to Leonard Larson and Hilda Swanson Larson on February 1, 1915, in Stanton, Iowa. Myrtle Larson, 93, of Villisca, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, July 15, 2008, at the Stanton Care Center, Stanton, Iowa.

Myrtle graduated from Stanton High School. After working for several years at the Villisca Bank, she became a homemaker taking care of her parents. She enjoyed gardening and baking. She was a long time member of Eastern Star.

She is survived by her sister Irene Robinson of Villisca and a niece Linda Ridenour of Atlanta, GA. She was preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Hilda (Swanson) Larson, brothers Dennis Larson and Weldon Larson, and sister Minnie Findley.

Donald Warren Palmquist

Donald Warren Palmquist, the son of Elder and Ruth (Johnson) Palmquist, was born January 12, 1928 in Montgomery County, Iowa. He passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at the Stanton Care Center, Stanton, Iowa at the age of 80 years, 5 months and 13 days.

Don graduated from Red Oak High School in l945. He entered the United States Marine Corps in l946 and received his honorable discharge in l948. After his Military service Don attended Iowa State College and graduated in l952. Don was united in marriage to Jean Cowardin on March 25, l951 at Malvern, Iowa. Jobs in the dairy industry took them to Idaho and California. In l968, the family moved to a farm south of Stanton where they lived until moving to Red Oak in 2005. Don enjoyed his rose garden, apple orchard, and sharing the "fruits" of his labor with others, calling himself "Donny Apple-Swede". He retired in l994 after serving as Montgomery County Assessor for seven years. Don was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Stanton, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his son-in-law, Jeffrey Lundgren.

Don is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jean Palmquist of Red Oak, IA; three daughters: Linda and husband Bruce Kaufman of Sparta, WI; Karen Lundgren of Essex, IA; Diane Brunette of Seattle, WA; eight grandchildren: Cherie Kaufman, Andrea and husband Ty Babinski, Danny Kaufman and wife Shannon, Mary and husband Bryan Clark, Melissa Kaufman, Emma Lundgren, Beth Lundgren, and Natalie Brunette; great-grandsons: Jonathan and Tyler Babinski; brothers: James Palmquist of Red Oak, IA; John Palmquist and wife Charlotte of Stanton, IA; nieces, nephews, cousins, along with many other relatives and friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Verlea Joann Sands

Verlea Joann Sands, the daughter of Art and Hazel (Christie) Gay, was born on October 7, 1932, at Carbon, Iowa. Verlea entered eternal rest on June 27, 2008, at the Creston Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Creston, Iowa, at the age of seventy-five years, eight months, and twenty-one days.

Verlea lived in Carbon, Corning and Villisca. She graduated from Corning High School. In 1951, she married Dewey Carpenter. She later married Don Sands. Verlea worked at Union Carbide in Red Oak for twenty-seven years and was a homemaker. Verlea always loved her pets, many cats and dogs, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Left to cherish Verlea's memory are her children: Dewey Carpenter, Jr., Red Oak; Jennifer (husband Harry) Walters, Creston; Jay Carpenter, Portalos, NM; Jack Carpenter, Colorado Springs, CO; and Donavon (wife Joni) Sands; Red Oak, IA; Fourteen Grandchildren; and one Great-Grandson; her sister: Ruth Gay, Villisca, Iowa; her brothers: Clayton Gay, Villisca, IA; Ron Gay, Villisca, IA; and Don (wife Carolyn) Gay, Gilroy, CA; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Preceding Verlea in death were her parents: Hazel and Art Gay; and her son: John Carpenter.

Janet Lee Christensen Boucher

Janet Lee Christensen Boucher left us to be with her Father in heaven, peacefully in her sleep after a two-year battle with mesothelioma, in her home of 40 years, in San Juan Capistrano, CA. on June 2, 2008. Janet was preceded by her mother Aletha Kendrick Christensen McGee, father Lester Miles Christensen, and stepfather

Harry "Pat" McGee. She is survived by her former husband Frederic Boucher; her children and their spouses: William "Bill" Boucher, Anne Miotti, Peter Boucher, and Joseph Mouawad; and her grandchildren: Robby, Betty, Elena, John, Alex, Christine, Natalie, Dori and Jano.

Janet was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa and raised in Villisca, which she always considered her true home. She earned her bachelors degree and teaching credential from the University of Lincoln, Nebraska, where she met and married Fred Boucher. They moved to California in the 50's and to San Juan Capistrano, CA in 1968. While they were divorced in the mid 1970's they remained friends and spent most holidays together with their children and grandchildren. Fred became more and more important to her as her illness progressed. He would take care of her and drive her to doctor appointments, helped her with paperwork and would undertake many other tasks.

Janet was active in the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society from the 70's through the 90's. She loved SJC and spent many weekends as a tour guide, giving tours of the downtown historical areas of the city. She received her California Teaching Credential from the University of CA at Irvine and worked as a substitute teacher for the Capistrano Unified School district for many years in the 70's. In the 80's she worked as a secretary for the Youth Exchange Services (YES) connecting US and foreign exchange students with host families. Janet worked for the south coast YMCA as a secretary for many years, then ran an after school child care office at Del Obispo school.

Janet loved her family, had a strong faith in God, and was active in the SJC community Presbyterian Church for 35 years. A few of the ways she gave back to her church were helping out with Vacation Bible School, teaching Sunday School, and singing in the choir. She was an avid music lover. She played piano, mountain dulcimer, and guitar, all the while she was singing along to the rhythms she created.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Presbyterian Church in Villisca, Iowa on June 21, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. There will be a service, including the scattering of her ashes at the old Kendrick farm, followed by lunch that is provided at The Bank in Villisca, Iowa. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations made to the Interchurch Council of Villisca.

Laurent Lee "Buster" Gourley

Laurent Lee “Buster” Gourley was born to Walter & Betty Gourley on September 5, 1944. (Walt died in 1986; Betty died in 2004.) Lee grew up on a farm at Morton’s Mill, Iowa with his three siblings, Floyd “Butch”, Elzene, and Fred. He was the only one in his country school class so transferred to Villisca in 8th grade. He graduated as Valedictorian from Villisca High School in 1962; graduated with Highest Honors from the US Air Force Academy with a majors in Astronautics and was Commissioned as a 2nd Lt in the USAF in 1966; and got his Masters’ degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Purdue University in 1967.

By November 1968 he was an F-100F fighter pilot in South Vietnam. He volunteered for a 90-day assignment as FAC (Forward Air Controller). That’s what he was doing when he was shot down over Laos on August 9, 1969. He was placed in Missing in Action status. He was promoted to the rank of Major December 2, 1969.

During 2001-2002, a joint U.S./Lao People’s Democratic Republic team excavated a plane crash site in Xepon District, Savannakhet Province, Laos. Recovered remains were interred at the Villisca Cemetery in October, 2002.

Edna "Sissy" Lantz, the daughter of James Albert and Letha Edna (Tobias) Calhoun was born December 18, 1943 in Austin, TX. She passed away on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital, Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 64 years, 6 months and 24 days.

Sissy grew up in Leander, TX where she graduated from high school. Sissy was a good worker and helped her dad pull water wells. On February 14, 1986 Sissy was united in marriage to Stephen Lantz in Leander, TX. Sissy and Steve made their home on a farm near Stanton, Iowa. She truly treasured her family and being a homemaker. Sissy loved gardening and reaped the rewards of the season by canning fruits and vegetables. She enjoyed traveling, especially to visit family and friends.

Sissy was preceded in death by her parents; sister: Betty Joyce Gourley; and grandson: Coty Davidson.

Sissy is survived by her husband: Stephen Lantz of rural Stanton, Iowa; sons: Jimmy Davidson of Stanton, IA; Robert Davidson, Timothy Davidson, and Kim Davidson all of Austin, TX; and daughter, Tonya Ziembrack of MI; step-daughters: Marcelle Hamel of Lakin, KS and Carol Lantz of Kansas City, MO; 23 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; sisters: Barbara Crow and Judy Cook of Leander, TX, other relatives and friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.
at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home, Red Oak
Burial in Mamre Cemetery, Stanton, Iowa
Rev. Mark Hamel, Officiating

Visitation with the family present will be held on Monday evening, July 14 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Services entrusted to Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

Kim McCue

A memorial service was held at the Wolfe Funeral Home on July 1, 2008, for Kim McCue of Villisca who passed away suddenly Thursday, June 26th at her home. Rev. Sandra Wainwright Rossander officiated. Her ashes are being taken to Montana for dispersal.

Kim Coriena Bowers McCue was born September 24, 1962, in Whitefish, Montana, the daughter of James and Mary Bowers. She had always loved the outdoors. As a youngster she enjoyed fishing with her father. She was happiest when she was helping children. She enjoyed entertaining her children, their friends and her grandchildren. She felt that she had a “billion kids” to look after. She home schooled her children when she was living in Montana. She enjoyed playing and helping her grandchildren as well.

She was very organized and that showed in her personal life. She earned her LPN license through Southwestern Community College and pursued her RN degree while balancing children and working at Romech with studying. She also loved to write poetry. On February 2, 2005, she was united in marriage to Daniel McCue.

Kim was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Vonnie Bowers, and her father-in-law Harold McCue. She is survived by her husband Daniel, 3 children: Harold Shoemaker of Anita, IA, Sharlene Killion of Atlantic, IA, Loretta Thedford of Cumberland, IA; 5 grandchildren: Aisha Dawn, Dominic, & Isiah Shoemaker and Damian & Mercedez Updike; 2 sisters: Jennifer (Guy) Wingfield of Oregon and Amelia Bowers of Montana; 1 brother James Bowers of Eureka, Montana; her mother-in-law Edith McCue of Villisca, IA; along with many nieces and nephews.

Joan Brown

Funeral services for Joan Brown, age 65 of Villisca, Iowa, who died Sunday, June 29, 2008 at her home in Villisca, Iowa after a courageous thirteen year battle with cancer, were held Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa with Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with the family was held 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa. Burial was in the Villisca Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society or to the Alegent Health Hospice. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Beverly Joan Brown was born August 18, 1942 in Clarinda, Iowa, the daughter of Ivan Eldon Peterman and Gladys Marie (Owens) Peterman. Joan was raised in Clarinda with her three sisters and brother. She was a 1960 graduate of Clarinda High School. Joan was united in marriage to Robert Glassgow and later divorced. Joan and Ron Brown were married February 1, 1987 in Villisca and made their home in Villisca.

Joan worked at Lisle Corporation for over twenty years in the shipping department. She also was the bookkeeper for their Brown Sanitation business. Joan was a member of the Christian Church.

Family was the most important thing in Joan's life. Her husband, Ron, children and grandchildren came first in her life. She was also close to her brother and sisters. Joan especially enjoyed being with her grandchildren. Collecting angels was a favorite pastime of Joan's. She always put others first and wanted to help in any way she could. Joan will be remembered as always happy and with a smile even through her long battle with cancer.

Left to cherish Joan's memory are her husband, Ron Brown of Villisca; daughter, Michelle Hoyt of Clarinda; step children, Mike Brown and wife Lisa of Corning, Cori Feller and husband Mark of Shenandoah; grandchildren, Brandon and Britni Hoyt, Austin and Ashley Feller, Justin Cooper and wife Laura, and Josh Cooper; Great Grand daughter, Emma Cooper; mother, Gladys Peterman of Clarinda; brother, Bert Peterman and wife Janis of Shambaugh; sisters, Myriel "Jean" Cross of Afton, Dixie Booher and husband Glade of Clarinda, Kathryn "Kay" Gomez of Santa Fe Springs, California; mother-in-law, Fern Brown of Corning; brothers-in-law, Dick Brown and wife Sandy of Wall Lake, Bob Brown and wife Elinor of Villisca; sisters-in-law, Linda Kleiman and husband Tom of Kewaunee, Wisconsin, Vicky Tugel and husband Jake of Carlisle, Kris Ferguson and husband Rob of Jefferson City, Missouri; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her father, Ivan Peterman; infant daughter, Kimberly Jean; father-in-law, Russell Brown; great nephew, Aaron Brown.

Joan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and sister; her love and inspiration will live on through her family. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing.

Verlea Joann Sands

Verlea Joann Sands, the daughter of Art and Hazel (Christie) Gay, was born on October 7, 1932, at Carbon, Iowa. Verlea entered eternal rest on June 27, 2008, at the Creston Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Creston, Iowa, at the age of seventy-five years, eight months, and twenty-one days.

Verlea lived in Carbon, Corning and Villisca. She graduated from Corning High School. In 1951, she married Dewey Carpenter. She later married Don Sands. Verlea worked at Union Carbide in Red Oak for twenty-seven years and was a homemaker. Verlea always loved her pets, many cats and dogs, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Left to cherish Verlea's memory are her children: Dewey Carpenter, Jr., Red Oak; Jennifer (husband Harry) Walters, Creston; Jay Carpenter, Portalos, NM; Jack Carpenter, Colorado Springs, CO; and Donavon (wife Joni) Sands; Red Oak, IA; Fourteen Grandchildren; and one Great-Grandson; her sister: Ruth Gay, Villisca, Iowa; her brothers: Clayton Gay, Villisca, IA; Ron Gay, Villisca, IA; and Don (wife Carolyn) Gay, Gilroy, CA; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Preceding Verlea in death were her parents: Hazel and Art Gay; and her son: John Carpenter.

Florence Christine Mosman

Florence Christine Mosman, daughter of Mable (Nelson) Hultquist and John Hultquist, was born on July 1st, 1910 in Montgomery County, Iowa. She graduated from Villisca High School in 1929. She then worked as a schoolteacher.

On February 15th, 1930, Florence married Chester Mosman in Villisca, Iowa. They farmed near Grant and Villisca, before moving to their farm near Creston in 1940. She was a homemaker and farm wife. They moved into Creston in 1974. Flossie was a very active member of the Salem Lutheran Church and their quilting group. She also enjoyed her neighborhood groups.

Survivors include her son, Donald (wife Helen) Mosman of Creston; a daughter, Dorothy (husband Harvey) Shields of Thayer; three sisters, Vi Johnson of Creston, Marveline McConnell of Villisca and Fern Brown of Corning; a brother-in-law, Harold (wife Norma) Mosman of Corning and a sister-in-law, Jeanne Mosman of Ft. Collins, Colorado; five grandchildren, Terri (husband Terry) Hannah, Jeff (wife Debbie) Shields, Jon Shields, Doug (wife Nancy) Mosman, Julie (husband Gary) McFarling; 11 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Flossie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, in 1981, an infant daughter Marilyn in 1934, two great grandsons, Ryan and Cory Shields, five brothers-in-law and sister-in-law.

Richard LaVerne Wright

Richard LaVerne Wright was born July 1, 1930, in Villisca, IA, the son of William and Mildred (Shrimpton) Wright. He lived his entire life in Villisca. He attended school, helped the family with the livestock chores, delivered milk, and started helping his father at the saw mill at an early age. He worked at Van Chevrolet for 2 years and at Needham’s Mechanic Shop for 13 years. He went into the automotive and small engine repair in his own shop and continued there for 40 years. He drove a school bus route for Villisca Community Schools for 12 years and later was a substitute driver.

He was a member of the Villisca Volunteer Fire Department, the Villisca Chamber of Commerce, and a founding member of the Villisca Lions Club. He was a member the Villisca United Methodist Church and Methodist Men. He was also a member of the Iowa National Guard.

He married Ramona Follmann on July 17, 1955, at the Massena Methodist Church. He was father to son Bill and daughters Shelley, Marcy and Amy.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Maxine Johnson, Irene Richardson, and Dorothy Penfold and brother Roy Wright and infant brother Harold.

Dick is survived by his wife Ramona of Villisca, IA; son Bill (Christi) Burham of McAllister, OK; 3 daughters: Shelley Anderson (Eric) Anderson of Stanton, IA, Marcy (Jon) Schooley of Clay Center, KS, and Amy (Mark) Elwood of Stanton, IA; 8 grandchildren: Ben and Beth Ingersoll, Tanner Anderson, Jodie, Nathan, and Macy Elwood, Seth and Eli Schooley; brothers-in-law Hollis Penfold of Des Moines, IA, and Dick (Beulah) Follmann of Massena, IA; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2008, at the Villisca United Methodist Church in Villisca, Iowa, with burial in the Villisca Cemetery. Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Memorials may be sent to the family or to the Villisca United Methodist Church.

Harold L. and Audrey P. Enarson

Funeral services for Harold L. (1919-2006) and Audrey Pitt Enarson (1920-2008) will be held at 10:00 am at Wolfe Funeral Home on Saturday, May 17th, 2008. Their complete obituaries have appeared previously in the Villisca Review. Harold Enarson served as president of two universities--including Ohio State University, one of the largest in the country--during the tumultuous years of social change and campus unrest in the 1960's and 1970's.

Harold was born on a farm NW of Villisca, the son of John and Hulda Thorson Enarson, and moved as a youth to New Mexico, due to his father's health. His father died and his mother was the sole support while Harold was growing up. Even as a youth, he worked and earned money to help with family expenses.

He earned scholarships to enable him to attend college and eventually earned his Doctorate in Political Science. He was a veteran of WWII, earning several medals including the Purple Heart after being seriously wounded in Germany. He had a long and illustrious career, including serving as labor affairs assistant on President Truman's White House staff, appointment as president of Ohio State University and ending with his appointment as executive director of the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education, headquartered in Boulder CO, where they made their last home.

While a college student at the University of New Mexico, Harold met and later married Audrey Pitt, daughter of an area rancher. Audrey was renowned for her cowgirl skills and strong independent ways. She kept the family together while Harold fought in W.W.II., was active in her daughters' schools, and also gave her time freely to many causes, fighting for equal rights for minorities, the disabled, and the mentally ill. In her eighties she worked on worksites for Habitat for Humanity in Boulder, CO. She served on the Board of the National Girl Scout Council and held many positions in the Democratic Women's Club.

Harold and Audrey had three daughters, Elaine, Merlyn and Lisa. They and their families survive them. There are also surviving cousins in the area.

Following the funeral service, their combined cremains will be buried at Arlington Cemetery.

Roma Jean (Guss) Moates Ingersoll

Roma Jean (Guss) Moates Ingersoll, daughter of Glenn and Eula Guss, was born October 9, 1933. She was the third child and first daughter of the nine children in the family. Roma spent her younger years in the rolling hills of Hacklebarney north of Villisca, IA. She explored the streams and hills with her brothers and sisters, having fun as only children could during the Depression years. She attended country school there until the family moved to a farm near Nodaway, IA. Roma graduated from Nodaway High School in 1952. Shortly after graduation she ventured to Kansas City, MO, seeking employment. She lived with her aunt Irene Guss enjoying a new way of life. But the Villisca area called her back and she returned, working at the Nodaway National Bank in Villisca. She enjoyed working with the bank’s customers for 25 years.

Roma married Bill Moates of Villisca, IA, on Christmas Day, 1952. To this union were born two daughters: Jolene (Jody) and Vickie. Bill passed away in 1970, leaving a big hole in her heart. In 1971 Roma met Tom Ingersoll and he filled the void in her life. They married on March 11, 1972, and lived on his farm north of Villisca. She was back on the farm and loved it. Tom enjoyed taking Roma on vacation twice a year to visit the many places neither had been able to see in earlier years. One year they decided to just travel Highway 34 and see where it took them.

Roma loved walking in the woods of Hacklebarney Park with her daughters and granddaughters, telling them of the years she grew up in the region. They had many adventures visiting the old country school house, the old homestead and just wandering (and once getting lost) in the woods. Roma also loved history and antiques. She was an avid researcher of her family tree and could tell you stories of many ancestors. She enjoyed antique shopping, going to Flea Markets and just looking at as well as wondering about the history of each piece. Flower and vegetable gardening was also a joy in her life. She grew some of the best Musk Melon in Hacklebarney. After retiring from the farm, Roma enjoyed cross stitching and going on an occasional trip to the Casinos. Roma passed away Monday, May 26, 2008 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Eula Guss, her first husband Bill Moates, second husband Tom Ingersoll, sister June Balog, sister-in-law Janet Guss, brother-in-law Jird Fidler, and brother-in-law Lavern Echternach.

Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters: Jody Cooper and husband Dwaine of Villisca, IA, Vickie Sprague and husband Rick of Bedford, IA; step-sons: Bill Ingersoll and wife Brenda of Villisca,IA, Tom Ingersoll and wife Angie of Squaw Valley, CA; step-daughter Wendy England and husband Dave of Des Moines, IA; three granddaughters: Jodi (Sprague) McGargill and husband Kenny of Imogene, IA, Jennifer (Sprague) Belt and husband Wade of Council Bluffs, IA, Shannon (Moates)Spooner and husband Jason of Council Bluffs, IA; five great-grandchildren: Luk Miller, Elizabeth RomaMae Livengood, Emma Belt, Jaysen and Reece Spooner; step-grandchildren: Ben and Beth Ingersoll, Heather, Justin, Jessica and Crystal England; brothers: Ron and wife Joann Guss of New Market, VA, Merwin and wife Wanda Guss of Winterhaven, FL, Wayne and wife Wendy Guss of Sandy, UT; sisters: Shirley Fidler of Villisca, IA, Janet Echternach of Council Bluffs, IA, Sandy and husband Gail Kinser of Villisca, IA, Joan and husband Larry Perdew, Griswold, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

Her calm voice, cheery laugh and sound advice will be dearly missed by her family. In Roma’s opinion, loving and supporting your family is the purpose and joy of life.

Funeral services for Roma Jean (Guss) Moates Ingersoll were held Thursday, May 29th at Wolfe’s Funeral Home in Villisca, IA, with Pastor Kevin Skipworth officiating. Burial was in the Arlington Cemetery.

Larry L. Wheeler

Funeral services for Larry L. Wheeler of Nodaway, IA were held Friday, May 16, 2008 at Pearson-Coen-Beaty Family Funeral Service in Corning with Rev. Gordon Scott officiating. Burial was at Arlington Cemetery in rural Montgomery County.

Mr. Wheeler was born December 2, 1940 in Atlantic, IA, to Robert Max and Velma Mae (Cook) Wheeler; and died May 11, 2008 at his residence.

He graduated from Villisca High School in 1960 and served in the National Guard. He was united in marriage to Aneita Ruth Miller on March 22, 1964 at the Presbyterian Church in Corning. He farmed most of his life with his father. Later, Larry farmed with his brother in the Villisca and Nodaway area.

Larry especially loved to work outside and ride his Harley. He was a member of the American Legion of Villisca, ABATE of Iowa, Red Oak Chapter of the Harley Owner's Group (HOG), Za-Ga-Zig Shrine and the Masonic Lodge #590 of Nodaway.

Larry was preceded in death by his father Robert "Bob" Wheeler; brother-in-law Gerald Rohrssen; grandson Robert Jeffrey Miller; father-in-law Norman "Stormy" Karstensen; and sister-in-law Mary Alice Bruns.

Survivors include his wife Aneita Wheeler of Nodaway; mother Velma Wheeler of Villisca; mother-in-law Lenora Karstensen of Corning; son Robert Wheeler and wife Julie of Mountain Home, ID; daughter Brenda Barber and husband Greg of Des Moines, IA; three grandchildren: Johnathan, Jessica and Victoria Locke of Des Moines; brother Dale Wheeler and wife Sharon of Villisca; sisters-in-law: Rita Rohrssen of Marietta, GA; Janiece Brokaw and special friend Brian Weinreich of Corning; and a host of other relatives.

Memorials may be directed to your charity of choice and/or Alegent Health Hospice of Corning.

Irene Moser Sierp

Funeral services for Irene Moser Sierp were held on Saturday, March 22, 2008, at the Presbyterian Church in Villisca, Iowa, with Sandy Wainwright Rossander officiating. Burial was in the Villisca Cemetery. Irene passed away Tuesday, March 18, 2008.

Anna Irene Sierp, daughter of John and Anna (Dahlstrom) Magnuson was born in Spokane, Washington, August 18, 1910. She moved with her family to a farm near Stanton, Iowa when she was four years old. She was confirmed at Tabor Lutheran Church, Wallin, August 17, 1924. She graduated from Red Oak High School in 1928 with a Normal Training Certificate. She taught in rural schools for three years and married Lehnen A. Moser on August 5, 1931. She joined the Villisca Presbyterian Church in 1938. She was a Sunday School teacher, active in the Presbyterian Women's Association and also served as a Deacon of the Church. She was awarded an Honorary Life Membership in United Presbyterian Women. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star for over fifty years. She was Worthy Matron in 1954. In later years, she was a volunteer at the Villisca Good Samaritan Center.

Irene's husband, L.A. Moser, passed away January 29, 1967. She married Glen Sierp, July 27, 1968 and acquired a much loved second family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, a sister, a brother, two grandsons, a son-in law, and several other loved ones.
She is survived by her son, James Moser and wife, Rosalene, Evergreen, CO; daughter, Linda Moser Gary, Woodland Hills, CA; daughter, Shirley Sierp Walker and husband, Garold "Red", Altamont, MO; and son, Kenneth Sierp and wife, Kathy, of York, NE; and grandchildren, Daniel Moser and wife, Sandra, Downers Grove, IL; Louise Moser Porter and husband, Kurt, Olney, MD; Andrew Gary, Lake Elsinore, CA: Bryan Gary, Dillon, CO; and Gretchen Gary, Costa Rica; Debra Smith and husband, R.J., Central City, IA; Karla Michener and husband, Tim, Gallatin, MO; Paula Wilson, Grimes, IA; Kyle Sierp, Dallas, TX; Christopher Sierp and wife, Heather, Dallas, TX; and Keri Kircher and husband, Seth, York, NE.

Irene also has twenty-four great grandchildren and one great-great grandson; two sisters-in-law, Edna Magnuson and Lucille Sierp; nephew Max Magnuson and wife, Barbara, and many other close extended family members and friends.

In Irene's opinion, loving one another is the purpose and joy of life.

Vivian Veora Hart

Vivian Veora Hart was born Sunday, July 13, 1913 southwest of Villisca, Iowa in Page County on the farm of her parents, John Harvey and Bessie (Collier) Kelley. Vivian passed away Saturday morning, March 8, 2008 at Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center where she had resided for nine years.

Vivian and Harold John Hart were married September 1, 1932, in Creston, Iowa. They had two children, Richard and Ron. Vivian was a devoted homemaker and farm wife on their farm southeast of Villisca. She loved to cook, tend to her flowers, and over the years sew for her children and grandchildren. She and Harold retired from farming and moved to Villisca. Harold predeceased her in death in 1998. She was also preceded by her parents and sister-in-law Marjorie Kelley.

She is survived by her sons, Richard H. Hart and his wife Helen of Cheyenne, Wyoming and Ron Hart and his wife Carol of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren, James Hart of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Kelley Jenkins and her husband Andy of San Pedro, California, Teresa L. Sohl of Red Oak, Iowa, Gregory D. Hart and his wife Teri Jo of Clarinda, Iowa; great grandchildren Emmet Jenkins; Jennifer, Megan and Elizabeth Sohl; Allen Hart and his wife Jill; and Brian Hart; great great grandchildren Kaitlyn and Isaac Hart and Brooke Hart; brother, Leonard Kelley of Clarinda, Iowa and his daughter Karen Meyer of Clarinda, Iowa.

Graveside services were held Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at Arlington Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Villisca Fire & Rescue. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca was in charge of arrangements.

Janice "Jan" Kendrick

Janice "Jan" Kendrick, 74, of Hot Springs Village, AR went to be with the Lord on April 2, 2008. She was born in Clarinda, Iowa on September 15, 1933, the daughter of the late C.R. (Bill) Kelley and Rae Higgins Kelley.

Janice married Darwin Kendrick of Villisca, Iowa on March 9, 1952. To this union were born four daughters: Kimberly Kendrick, Terryl Budde, Kelly Kendrick and Paulette "Cori" Currey.

Janice belonged to the Society of Mayflower Descendants, The Daughters of the American Revolution and the National Society of Colonial Dames XVII Century. She was an avid researcher of her family tree as she descended from four Mayflower families. Her other hobby was traveling all over the world. She visited over 26 countries and many islands and every state. Janice retired from the US Postal Service and was a member of the Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church in Hot Springs Village, AR.

A brother, Conrad Kelley, preceded Mrs. Kendrick in death. Survivors include her husband of 56 years, Darwin E. Kendrick of Hot Springs Village, AR; four daughters: Kelly Kendrick of DeWitt, MI, Kimberly Kendrick of Chicago, IL, Terryl Budde of Pompano Beach, FL and Cori Currey of Roscoe, IL; a sister, Karen Foote of Beaverton, OR and eight beloved grandchildren: Brandon Bartkowiak, Casey Sinclair, Cydney Currey, Kayleigh Chapman, Ian Currey, Olivia Currey, Amanda Kendrick, and Kaitlin Rodde.

Memorial service will be at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa at 10 a.m. on April 19, 2008. Interment will be in Memory Cemetery in New Market, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

John Donovan Sellergren

John Donovan Sellergren, the son of Arvid and Emma (Swanson) Sellergren was born on May 25, 1915 in Stanton, Iowa. He died on Sunday, June 8, 2008 at the Stanton Care Center, Stanton, Iowa at the age of 93 years and 14 days.

Donovan was a lifetime resident of Stanton growing up on a farm just south of town. He graduated from Stanton High School in 1933. Donovan then graduated from Red Oak Junior College and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in mathematics at the University of Iowa in 1939. He was drafted into the U. S. Army in 1941. Donovan played the sousaphone in the Army's 30th Infantry Division marching band, stationed in South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida. He also played string bass in the dance band during his years in the Army. Donovan was released from service in 1945. On June 20, 1943 Donovan was united in marriage to Marjorie Isaacson at Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Stanton. Following his release from the service, Donovan and Marjorie made their home near Stanton. He farmed south of Stanton beginning in 1947 until his retirement. At different times in his life he also worked as a Farm Bureau Insurance salesman, Montgomery County field assessor, bookkeeper at the Stanton Cooperative, mathematics teacher at Stanton High School, and was bookkeeper at Posten Sales of Villisca for 27 years. Donovan was a lifelong member of Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Stanton. He served on the church council, as church treasurer, taught Sunday school, and was a member of the church choir for many years. Donovan was a 60-year member of Ernie Johnson Post 406 of the American Legion. He served on the board of the Montgomery County Historical Society and the Care Review Board of the Stanton Care Center. Donovan was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Clifford Isaacson.

Survivors include his wife: Marjorie of Stanton, IA; son: John Sellergren of Stanton, IA; daughters: Ruth and husband Dale Vander Schaaf of Ames, IA; and Martha and husband David Cole of Meeker, CO; grandchildren: Kristen Vander Schaaf and husband Scott Samet of Ames, IA; Diana and husband Todd Givens of Des Moines, IA; Nathan Vander Schaaf of Ames, IA; Emily McCoy of Fort Collins, CO; Susan McCoy of Homer, AK; Marie and husband Aaron Zimenoff of Fort Collins, CO; great-grandchildren: Savannah Givens of Des Moines, IA and Emily Samet of Ames, IA; brother and sister-in-law: Leland and Marian Sellergren of Stanton, IA and sister-in-law: Phyllis Isaacson of Dassel, MN; other relatives and many friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Memorials in lieu of flowers to Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Stanton. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home of Red Oak in charge of arrangements.

Jack Madison Rees

Jack Madison Rees, formerly of Stanton, passed on Saturday morning at 8:45 a.m. A memorial service was celebrated at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Kansas City, Missouri, Thursday June 5, 2008. There was a reception after the service in the Jewel Room of the church.

Jack is survived by his sons and their wives: John Martz Rees and Hayley Walker Rees of Kansas City, Missouri; Michael Stroud Rees and Mary Ann Strandell of North Bergen, New Jersey; and his beloved sister Charlotte Rees Schultz of Omaha. Rees was born on May 30, 1921, in Stanton, Iowa, the son of the late Georgene Madison Rees and Ross Basil Rees. He attended Iowa State University from 1940-42. During WWII, he served in the U.S. Army. As an amphibious engineer in a combat unit, Jack charted the coastline of New Guinea for the invasion. He then served on General Douglas MacArthur's staff, designing army installations, including a chapel made of bamboo and palm trunks and an amphitheater with a stage for USO shows, as well as hospitals, offices and officers' clubs. Honorably discharged as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1945, Jack moved to New York to study interior design at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. While attending Pratt, he worked part-time for the Rambusch Decorating Company, a firm that specialized in liturgical design. Several decades later, as a memorial to his parents, Jack designed and worked in needlepoint, appointments for Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Stanton -- a project that took seven years to complete.

After Jack was graduated from Pratt in 1947 he began his career as an interior designer in New York where he worked for William Pahlman Associates, L. Bamberger and W. & J. Sloane. While living in New York, he met Joan Martz. The two were wed June 19, 1949. Together they decided to relocate to Kansas City. Even though they arrived with the 1951 flood, they were here to stay.

Jack opened Jack Rees Interiors in a storefront at 902-1/2 Westport Road. Ever the visionary, in this instance, he anticipated in and contributed to the revival of Westport. His first client was Martha Gaylord. Other early projects of note include designs for The River Club and the Carriage Club. Within several years, he moved the studio to 45th and Belleview. Jack Rees Interiors remained there until Jack's retirement 45 years later. Early projects included numerous residences in Kansas City and residential projects in New York, Cleveland, Palm Beach, Phoenix, Tucson, Aspen, and La Jolla. He designed the official residence in Nassau for Sir Roland Simonette, prime minister of the Bahamas. Industrialist Andre Soriano commissioned him to design a residence for the Soriano family in Manila. When Prince Fahad Sultan of Saudi Arabia attended Staff and Command School in Leavenworth, Kansas, Jack designed a residence for him there -- completing the project in 45 days. His most recent project, completed after his "retirement," was an interior design for a chateau in the south of France.

Jack also designed The Raphael Hotel on the Country Club Plaza and the presidential suite at the Hotel Muehlebach. Other commercial projects included work in Kansas City for United Missouri Bank, the Gilbert Airport Restaurants, The Inn at the Landing, Wolferman's Restaurant at Ward Parkway, Harzfelds, Woolf Brothers, and Jaccard Jewelry. Projects in other cities included the Terrace Hilton in Cincinnati and The Raphael in San Francisco. Many awards, honors and accolades were bestowed on Jack as the result of his work. He was the first Davidson Award honoree as "Designer of the Year." Jack's work has been featured in publications including Holiday, House & Garden and House Beautiful. He authored Decorating with Color for Cook Paints and designed a textile, Rees Phoenix, for F. Schumacher & Co. From 1981 to 1983, he served as the president of ASID (the American Society of Interior Designers). During that time, he founded ASID's Home of the Year Program.

Jack was a founder of the Bacchus Ball and the Lyric Opera Ball, as well as a founding member of the Carriage Club. He served on the board of directors of the Lyric Opera. He was state president of the Sons of the Revolution, Missouri Society, from 1993-94, and president of the Sons of the Revolution, Kansas City Society, from 1992-94. He was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church.

First and last a gentleman of refined taste, Jack led by example with impeccable tailored suits and a stunning home that was a Kansas City cabinet of wonders. He was beloved by his clients and revered in the community. He set standards for elegant living and great design for more than four decades. In his work, he brought clarity, order and calm to his architectural interiors through the use of the furniture, accessories, and exquisite fabrics, all organized through beautiful ink drawings. For years, many a party was enlivened by the Jack and Joan show-with Jack playing straight man to Joan's vivacious personality. He never quite recovered from losing her in November of 2006, after 52 years of marriage.

Jesse Louis Stephens

Jesse Louis Stephens was born July 11, 1918 near New Market, Iowa on the Stephens farm to Earl Jesse and May (Brannon) Stephens. He graduated Barton Country School with the distinction of missing no days. At age 16 he started working for Bill Geer for two years. He worked for Ralph Porter at Clearfield on the thrashing machine and worked on a farm until 1939 then he went to Wyoming on Gray Bull Valley Basin area ranch for four years. He was called to serve in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Jesse was a sniper with Gen. Patton. He received a Purple Heart and Clusters. Jesse married Doris Mattson in 1946 in Colorado while working on a ranch near Carbondale, Colorado. The couple moved back to Clarinda and Jesse was on the County Road Maintenance for ten years, Page 'N Hill Construction for twelve years and he retired from Lisle Corp in 1982 after working there for nine years. Jesse and Doris purchased their home in Hepburn from Russell Kent in 1959 and he has lived there on the highway since then only to go to Villisca Good Samaritan in the spring of 2008 where he passed away on a stormy spring night June 5, 2008. Jesse was familiar with the hills and timbers of the area finding Indian artifacts, bow and arrow hunting, hunting with a muzzle loader, and harvesting the bountiful wild fruits and berries of southwest Iowa. All those who knew Jesse will truly miss his outdoorsman wisdom and friendship.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Doris; and siblings Richard, Robert and Viola.

He is survived by his daughter, Judy Lynette Bears of Blanchard, Iowa; grandchildren Jessa Bears of Blanchard and Travis Bears of Hepburn.

Funeral services were held Sunday, June 7, 2008 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel with Pastor Brian Bontrager officiating. Interment was at Gus Cemetery, Gus, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, 505 Fifth Ave. Suite 444, Des Moines, IA 50309-2321 . Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

Lloyd Gaylord Thomas

Lloyd Gaylord Thomas, the son of Clarence and Hattie (Peck) Thomas was born July 21, 1908 in Montgomery County, Iowa. He died on Friday, May 30, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Society in Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 99 years, 10 months and 9 days.

Lloyd was raised in Montgomery County. In 1930, Lloyd was united in marriage to Alice Nelson. Lloyd farmed many years in the Morton Mills area, he especially enjoyed raising livestock. His wife Alice passed away in 1962. On October 8, 1965, Lloyd was united in marriage to Verna (Pat) Kraft Goecker at Villisca, Iowa. They continued to live on the farm until l971. Lloyd and Pat then made their home in Red Oak. Lloyd worked for Sears and Earl May, along with helping several farmers on their farms. Lloyd was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Red Oak. Lloyd loved to play cards and was very competitive; he enjoyed winning most of the time. Lloyd's hobbies included fishing and woodworking. He built doll furniture, farm toys, plant stands, Christmas decorations and even cabinets. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Alice; son: Richard Thomas in l959; grandson: Robert Allan Harper in l986; two brothers: Roy "Dick" Thomas and Bert Thomas; and stepson: David Goecker.

Lloyd is survived by his wife: Verna M. Thomas of Red Oak, IA: daughter: Ruby Harper and husband Bob of Villisca, IA; step-daughters: Patricia Wells and husband Roger of Council Bluffs, IA and Kathleen Edrington and husband Hal of Omaha, NE: step-daughter-in-law: Sandra Goecker of Council Bluffs, IA; two granddaughters: Nancy Watts and Rachel Durman and husband Mike; seven great-granddaughters: ten great-great-grandchildren: six step-grandchildren; eight step-great-grandchildren; two sisters: Stella Kelsay of Castle Rock, CO and Fern Nelson of Denver, CO; nieces, nephews, along with other relatives and friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Memorials to First United Methodist Church in Red Oak or Montgomery County Memorial Hospital Foundation Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home charge of arrangements.

Lila M. Johnson

Lila M. Johnson, age 85, of Red Oak, Iowa passed away Friday, March 21, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital. Lila Margaret Johnson was born November 2, 1922 in Villisca, Iowa the daughter of John David and Effie May (Noble) Copelin. She was raised near Villisca and graduated from Villisca High School in 1941. She worked for several area families helping with the kids and later for Powell School before she was united in marriage to A. Delbert Johnson on February 25, 1944 in Corning, Iowa. They lived and farmed near Gus, Iowa for 40 years moving to Red Oak in 1984. Delbert eventually was residing at the Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center and Lila moved to Villisca in 1991 to be closer to Delbert. Delbert preceded Lila in death on March 31, 1993. Lila moved back to Red Oak in 1998 and lived at Acorn Acres. Over the years Lila worked as a telephone operator and a cook at both the Shady Lawn Nursing Home in Villisca and the Good Samaritan Care Center in Red Oak. Lila always kept very busy in her work, church and taking care of her family. She was a Sunday School teacher, youth leader, and 4-H leader for many years. Her hobbies included maintaining a very large garden, canning, sewing, embroidery, working with resin to create art projects, arranging pressed flowers into pieces of art, and loved decorating for all the holidays. Lila was also proud to have been a member of the Calico Maids Club and the First Christian Church.

Preceding Lila in death were her infant brothers: Delbert and Darwin; her parents; her husband: Delbert Johnson; her sister: Ruth Speed; and her brother: Joe Copelin. Survivors include her daughter: Colleen Johnson of Red Oak Iowa; her sister: Mary Speed of Huxley, Iowa; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; two special children who called her "Mom" and their 5 children who called her "Grandma"; sisters-in-law: Millicent Copelin of Villisca, Iowa; Lola Johnson of Colorado; and Betty Johnson of Corning, Iowa; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 2 PM Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Rev. Lowell Schaaf and Rev. JoAnn officiating. Burial will be in the Arlington Cemetery near Villisca, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held from 6-8 PM Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. Lila's pressed flower art arrangements will be diplayed at her funeral and her wishes were that memorials be suggested to the Red Oak Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association in lieu of flowers.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Velma Lois Timmerman

Velma Lois Timmerman, age 90, of Corning, Iowa died Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at Corning Nursing and Rehabilitation in Corning, Iowa. Services will be 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 at the First Presbyterian Church in Corning with Rev. Ken Rummer officiating. Burial will be at Nodaway Cemetery in rural Nodaway, IA.

Velma Timmerman was born April 22, 1917 to Millen Thompson and Sarah Emelia Olson. She married Robert M. Timmerman on January 9, 1942 in Fairfax, MO. She was a homemaker and was a cook at Colonial Manor, Corning Nursing and Rehab Center. She also worked at Happy Hollow Country Club. She was a member of Strand Lutheran Evangelical Church, Villisca, IA

Survivors are: Daughters: Joan (husband Marion) Niemeyer, Omaha, Nebraska; Jean (husband Larry) Andersen, Treynor, Iowa; Lois (husband Paul) Pfundt, Lincoln, Nebraska; Diane (husband Gary) Badgett, Corning, Iowa; Son: Dean (wife Janet) Timmerman, Ponca City, Oklahoma; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 13 step-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Velma in death: Preceded in death by: Parents: Millen and Sarah Emelia Thompson; Husband: Robert Timmerman; Children: Robert Timmerman Jr. and infant daughter Timmerman.

Memorials should go toCorning Nursing and Rehab, Alegent Health Mercy Hospital or Just Friends in Velma's name. On-line condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com Pearson-Coen-Beaty Family Funeral Service in Corning, IA was in charge of arrangements.

Viola Marie Fastenau

Viola Marie Fastenau, the daughter of Fred Schroeder and Dena (Blankemier) Schroeder, was born on January 1, 1922, in Belgard, NE. Viola entered eternal rest on March 18, 2008 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning, Iowa at the age of 86 years, 2 months and 18 days.

Viola married Eldo Bernhardt Fastenau on July 20, 1942 in Rockport, MO. Four children were born to this blessed union: Norma; Ron; Don and Jerry.

She was a housewife throughout her life; however, she worked at Carden's Shoe Store for fourteen years and at the Corning Creamery for two years. Viola had a passion for gardening, fishing and sewing.

She was a Charter Member of Redeemer Lutheran Church. She taught Sunday school, VBS, and Youth Group most of her life. Her memberships also included: Ladies Legion Auxiliary, Redeemer LWML. In addition, Viola also had volunteered with the American Red Cross.

Left to cherish Viola's memory are her children: Daughter: Norma (husband James) McCutchan, Creston, Iowa; Sons: Ron (wife Ellen) Fastenau, Minot, North Dakota; Don (wife Patty) Fastenau, Winterset, Iowa; Jerry Fastenau (special friend Stephanie Duval), Corning, Iowa; Brothers: Alden Schroeder, Creston, Iowa; Delbert (wife Judy) Schroeder, Villisca, Iowa; many nieces, nephews, relatives and other friends.

Viola was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother of thirteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

Preceding Viola in death were Parents: Fred and Dena Schroeder; Husband: Eldo Fastenau in 1993; Brothers: Ed Schroeder; Henry Schroeder; Donald Schroeder (infant); Sister; Deloris Jean Herzburg.

Kenneth D. Mueller

Kenneth D. Mueller, age 89, of Grant, Iowa passed away Sunday, March 2, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak. Kenneth Darwin Mueller was born July 6, 1918 in Grant, Iowa the son of Jacob F. and Mary (Adkinson) Mueller. He graduated from Grant High School in 1935 and started working for Spiker Chevrolet. Kenneth served in the Army during WWII and was united in marriage to Ruth Phillips on April 21, 1945 in Griswold, Iowa. Kenneth worked for Spiker Chevrolet until 1955 when he started Mueller Insurance Agency located in his father's hardware store at Grant, Iowa. In 1970, Kenneth sold his business and went to work for Houghton State Bank as Vice-President in the Insurance Department at their bank in Elliott, Iowa. While he was in his 60's, Kenneth attained his real estate license. This was a tool he used in his work in helping people settle estates. He also was a notary public and was always helping someone with his stamp of approval. Kenneth even managed to find time to help Kenny Gridley with Auctions in his spare time. Over the years he was involved in many civic organizations including being the treasurer of City of Grant, member of Grant Fire Department, member of American Legion, member of Masonic Lodge, a member of Order of Eastern Star and member of Grant United Methodist Church. He was active in these organizations for well over 50 years. He also served on the Montgomery County Draft Board and was a charter member of the Montgomery County Conservation Board.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife: Ruth Mueller of Griswold, Iowa; daughter: Ramona Hetrick and husband Lee of Lincoln, Nebraska; son: John Mueller and wife Carla of Elliott, Iowa; grandchildren: Benjamin Pejsar of Lincoln, Nebraska; Rachel Pejsar Snelling and husband John of Lincoln, Nebraska; Brad Mueller of Lake Ozark, Missouri; and Allison Mueller of Ames, Iowa; great grandson: Grant Snelling of Lincoln, Nebraska; brother: Carl Mueller of Duluth, Minnesota; nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Thursday, March 6, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Rev. Terry McClain officiating. Burial will be in the Grant, Iowa Cemetery. There will be a Masonic service at 6:30 PM Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with visitation with the family to follow until 8 PM. Memorials are suggested to the Grant Fire Department or the Grant American Legion.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Letha M. McFarland

Letha May McFarland, the daughter of Joseph Martin and Tilda Emelia (Houghsten) Wyatt was born October 22, 1907 in Adams County, Iowa. She died on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 atthe Villisca Good Samaritan Society of Villisca, Iowa at the age of 100 years, 4 months and 5 days.

Letha attended grade school in Adams County and graduated from Corning High School in June, 1927. After graduation, she went to Chicago with her sister Lila and worked for Montgomery Wards Catalog Company for one year. Due to her mother's health problems, Letha came back to help on the farm. Later, she began working at Thos. D. Murphy Calendar Company, until being layed off. She began housekeeping for Mrs. Cole who lived south of Red Oak. On November 27, 1929, Letha was united in marriage to Paul D. McFarland in Rockport, MO. During the Great Depression, Letha and Paul lived and worked on Letha's parents' farm. During WW II, they lived in Olathe, KS and California. In 1943, Letha and Paul settled on their farm northeast of Stanton. She enjoyed camping and spending time in Arizona during the winter months. Letha became a resident of Villisca Good Samaritan Society in November, 2005. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 72 years, Paul on June 23, 2002; 2 sisters: Lila Johnson and Kathryn Hamilton; 5 brothers: Arther Wyatt, Harvey Wyatt, Robert Wyatt, Myron Wyatt and Olin Wyatt; and son-in-law: Frank Messer.

Letha is survived by 3 daughters: Mrs. Marilyn Messer of Kansas City, MO; Pauline Bisbee and husband Jack of Stanton, IA; Carolyn Ragan and husband Bob of Calabasas, CA; 10 grandchildren: Delmar Messer; Debbie Martin; Sheryl Titus; Kathy Wilson; Kevin Messer; Teresa Nash; Diane Bisbee Jackson; David Bisbee; Connie Ragan; Terry Stewart; 17 great-grandchildren; 16 great-great-grandchildren; brother: Joe Wyatt of Jefferson, IA; brother-in-law: Jerry Shook of Kansas City, MO; sister-in-law: Barbara Perkins of Shell Knob, MO; other relatives and friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held
Monday, March 3, 2008 at 11:00 a.m.
at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home
Burial in Strand Cemetery, Adams County, IA
Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli, Officiating

Visitation with the family one hour prior to the service on Monday, March 3rd at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Louise A. Johnson

Louise A. Johnson, age 91, of Stanton, Iowa, passed away Saturday, February 23, 2008 at the Stanton Care Center. Louise Augusta Johnson was born October 1, 1916 in Stanton, Iowa the daughter of Knute and Lydia (Malmberg) Hallquist. She was raised in Stanton graduating from Stanton High School in 1934. Louise was united in marriage to Helmer Johnson on April 25, 1943 in Stanton, Iowa. She worked at Connors Department Store in Red Oak then owned and operated her own store in Stanton called the White City Variety Store. She also operated a Swedish craft store from the farm where she and Helmer lived. Louise was known throughout the area for her rugs that were woven on the loom. She was a member of the Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Entre Neu, and the Garden Club as she loved flowers. Her favorite was the African Violet.

Louise was preceded in death by her parents; her husband: Helmer on April 19, 1989; two sons: Kenneth and Carroll; sister: Lorraine Larson; and brother: Donald Hallquist. Survivors include her children: Marvin Johnson and wife Terri of Edmond, Oklahoma; Howard Johnson and wife Jeanne of Red Oak, Iowa; Warren Johnson and wife Debbie of Lindsborg, Kansas; Marlene Peterson and husband Don of Kansas City, Missouri; and Elaine Hinton and husband Mike of Columbia, Missouri; daughter-in-law: Kaye Linda Johnson of Spokane, Washington; 20 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Wednesday, February 27, 2008 at Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Stanton with Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli officiating. Burial will be in the Mamre Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 7-9 PM Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

William A. Cunningham

William A. Cunningham, 77, of Weslaco, TX, formerly of Villisca, Iowa passed away Sunday, February 3, 2008 at the Comfort House in McAllen, TX. He was born April 2, 1930 at Wamego, Kansas to Arthur H. Cunningham and Elizabeth B. Fenton.

Bill graduated from Villisca High School in 1948 and attended college for one year. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving during the Korean War. On September 13, 1950 Bill married Frances Corbin at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Red Oak, Iowa. This union was blessed with two children: Jean and Daniel.

Bill started his law enforcement career with the Iowa Highway Patrol in 1959 to 1966. He became a United States Deputy Marshal in 1966. He retired as Chief Deputy Marshal in 1986. He was stationed in Des Moines, Topeka, KS, Washington, DC, Baton Rouge and Oklahoma City. He was a part-time Montgomery County Deputy Sheriff from 1990 to 2000.

Bill is survived by his children Jean Rafferty and husband John of Topeka, KS and Daniel Cunningham and wife Paula of Statesboro, GA, grandchildren William (Deena) Rafferty of Wauconda, IL, Jenna (Matthew) Langley of Columbia, MO, Sean Cunningham of Statesboro, GA and Kelley Cunningham of Lawrenceville, Ga, brother Charles Cunningham of Globe, AZ and sister-in-law Elaine Artlip of Tenville, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents, his dear wife Fran, and his sister Mary Popken.

Memorial services were held Saturday, February 16, 2008 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with Fr. Thomas Coenen officiating. Interment was in the Grant Cemetery, Grant, IA. Memorial should be directed to the Alzheimer's Association or Comfort House Hospice of McAllen, TX. Wolfe Funeral Home, Villisca, was in charge of arrangements.

Vivian Veora Hart

Vivian Veora Hart was born Sunday, July 13, 1913 southwest of Villisca, Iowa in Page County on the farm of her parents, John Harvey and Bessie (Collier) Kelley. Vivian passed away Saturday morning, March 8, 2008 at Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center where she had resided for nine years.

Vivian and Harold John Hart were married September 1, 1932, in Creston, Iowa. They had two children, Richard and Ron. Vivian was a devoted homemaker and farm wife on their farm southeast of Villisca. She loved to cook, tend to her flowers, and over the years sew for her children and grandchildren. She and Harold retired from farming and moved to Villisca. Harold predeceased her in death in 1998. She was also preceded by her parents and sister-in-law Marjorie Kelley.

She is survived by her sons, Richard H. Hart and his wife Helen of Cheyenne, Wyoming and Ron Hart and his wife Carol of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren, James Hart of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Kelley Jenkins and her husband Andy of San Pedro, California, Teresa L. Sohl of Red Oak, Iowa, Gregory D. Hart and his wife Teri Jo of Clarinda, Iowa; great grandchildren Emmet Jenkins; Jennifer, Megan and Elizabeth Sohl; Allen Hart and his wife Jill; and Brian Hart; great great grandchildren Kaitlyn and Isaac Hart and Brooke Hart; brother, Leonard Kelley of Clarinda, Iowa and his daughter Karen Meyer of Clarinda, Iowa.

Graveside services were held Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at Arlington Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Villisca Fire & Rescue. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca was in charge of arrangements.

George Walter Johnson

George W. Johnson, 89, of Nodaway, Iowa died Friday, February 29, 2008, at his home south of Nodaway.

George was born May 7, 1918, to Calvin Wesley and Sarah Emma (Holland) Johnson in Guss, Iowa, one mile west of his current residence. He attended Weston Country School in Nodaway Township of Taylor County through the 8th grade.

He was united in marriage to Iva Lucille Blacklock on October 7, 1943 in Little Rock, Arkansas, just prior to being sent to Ascension Island in the southern Atlantic Ocean where he served as a baker in the U.S. Army. Upon his discharge he returned to his lifelong occupation of farming always within one mile of his birthplace. He was a member of the Maple Grove United Methodist Church of Guss, Iowa.

George was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lucille in 2006, brothers Floyd and wife Leona Johnson, Albert and wife Mary Johnson, Francis Johnson, Delbert Johnson and Wilbur Johnson and son-in-law Clifford Koch.

George is survived by his children: Donald Johnson and wife Lilian of Ames, Iowa; Carol and husband Terry Krone of Denver, Colorado; Kay and husband Gilles St. Pierre of Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Joyce Koch of Omaha, Nebraska; Keith Johnson and wife Denise of Mission, Kansas; Jan and husband Steve Rawson of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Kurt Johnson and wife Deanne of Gravity, Iowa; and Chris and husband Timothy Howe of Russellville, Arkansas; eleven grandchildren: Lynnay and husband Erich Hites of Story City, Iowa; Darren Johnson and wife Sarah of Ames, Iowa; Coquina Koch of Omaha, Nebraska; Regina Quaas and husband Michael of Shawnee, Kansas; Jeremy Johnson and wife Tracy of Dallas, Texas; Heidi Johnson of Mission, Kansas; Hannah and John Rawson both of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Justine, Michael and Natalie Johnson all of Gravity, Iowa; five great grandchildren: Isaac, Danniel, Karissa, Madison and Michael Jr., sisters-in-law Lola Johnson of Longmont, Colorado, Lila Johnson of Red Oak, Iowa and Betty Johnson of Corning, Iowa, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 7, 2008, at the Maple Grove United Methodist Church in Guss, Iowa, with interment in the Guss Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday, March 6th at the Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to the Maple Grove United Methodist Church. Wolfe Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Barrie Norman Oblinger

Barrie Norman Oblinger, 83, of Boca Raton, FL, and formally of Monroe, NY and Villisca, IA, died peacefully on January 6, 2008, after a short illness.

He was born on October 8, 1924, in Minneapolis, MN, to Milo Oblinger and Margareth Bjerke. He married Elaine F. Miller on August 15, 1948, and they had four children.

Barrie will be remembered by those who knew him for his deep passion of music and his love of the ocean.

Barrie is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elaine M. Oblinger; his children, Joyce Bloshinsky of Boca Raton, Florida, Barrie W. Oblinger of Mebane, North Carolina, Bruce Oblinger of Southern Pines, North Carolina and Janet Bryant of Aberdeen, North Carolina; seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Following cremation, a private burial at sea will be held with family members.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Hospice by the Sea, 1531 W. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, FL 33486 or the Tri-County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton, FL 33428.

Richard D. Carlson

Richard D. Carlson, age 71, of Red Oak, Iowa passed away Sunday, February 10, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Care Center. Richard Dean Carlson was born March 16, 1936 in Page County, Iowa the son of Richard C. and Frances (Carlsward) Carlson. He was raised in southwest, Iowa and served his country during the Korean War in the Army. He was united in marriage to Joy Burnison on September 4, 1955 in Nyman, Iowa. They lived in Alabama for a short time before moving to Creston, Iowa where Richard worked for the Rural Electric Cooperative. When Richard was unable to work due to illness he and Joy moved to Red Oak where they lived most of their lives. Richard was an avid Iowa Hawkeye Fan often being called the "Hawkeye Man". He loved his family and spent most of his time supporting his kids and grandkids at whatever event they were involved with at the time. He loved to deer hunt with a bow, mushroom hunting, cutting trees, carpentry work, walking, and trips to Dairy Queen. Richard loved the outdoors, his family and just having fun and laughter wherever he was.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son: Gary in 1982; his wife Joy on February 13, 2007; sister: Beverly Westenburg; sister-in-law: Lois Garwood; and brother-in-law: David Roseland. Survivors include his children: Richard D. Carlson, Jr. and wife Mi Chong of St. Cloud, MN; Cynthia Tucker and husband Richard of Winterset, IA; Stephen Carlson of Stanton, IA; Susan Geer and husband Scott of Stanton, IA; and Carrie Rinehart and husband Brian of Anamosa, IA; 14 grandchildren; one great grandson; sisters: LaDonna Raney and husband James of Villisca, IA and Marcia Sierp and husband Bob of Onalaska, WI; brothers: Darrell Carlson and wife Mary of Red Oak, IA; William Carlson and wife Carol Ann of Clarinda, IA; Roger Carlson and wife Mary Jo of Marion, IA; and Daniel Carlson of Red Oak, IA; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: John Garwood of Jefferson City, MO; Richard Burnison and wife Leta of Stanton, NE; Lowell Burnison and wife Jan of Red Oak, IA; Larry Burnison and wife Cheryl of Lawton, OK; Karen Pridemore and husband Harold of Florrisant, MO; Phyllis Roseland of Springfield, NE; Sandra Currie and husband George of Essex, IA; Linda Malerbi and husband Larry of Omaha, NE; Janet Vallone of Clearwater, FL; and Barbara Carlson of McCallsburg, IA; many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends and his special dog: Heidi.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Friday, February 15, 2008 at the Fremont Lutheran Church at Nyman, Iowa with Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Hope Cemetery at Nyman, Iowa with military honors. Visitation with the family will be held from 6-8 PM Thursday, February 14, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Fremont Lutheran Church at Nyman.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak is in charge of arrangements.

Florence Brown

Florence Brown, age 93 of Eden Prairie, MN formerly of Villisca, Clarinda and Shenandoah, IA

Florence Helen Elizabeth Brown, the daughter of Otto J. and Anna J. Carlson was born June 9, 1914 on a farm near Stanton, Iowa. She passed away on Saturday, February 9, 2008 at the Golden Living Center, Excelsior, MN at the age of 93 years and 8 months.

Florence grew up on a farm near Stanton, IA. She was united in marriage to Lloyd Carl Brown on October 4, 1941 in Lake Charles, LA, where Lloyd was stationed in the Army National Guard. To this union two daughters were later born, Sharon and Sandra. While Lloyd was on tour during WW II, Florence lived in Stanton and then moved to a farm near Villisca, IA. Following Lloyd's honorable discharge from the National Guard, they made their home on a farm near Clarinda, IA. In 1965, they moved from the farm to Shenandoah, IA. While in Shenandoah, Florence was a nurse's aid at Shenandoah Hospital for 6 years. Florence and Lloyd retired, moving to Walker, MN. Florence enjoyed winter, snow and loved to go on snowmobile adventures in and around Leech Lake at Walker, MN. After the death of Lloyd in May of 1991, Florence and Sharon continued to live in Walker until 1999 when they relocated to Minneapolis, MN. Florence enjoyed crafts, and taking loving care of Sharon until she passed away in 2001. After that time, she really enjoyed spending time getting to know all her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and neighbors at Realife Valley View Cooperative where she lived until she became ill in October of 2007. Florence was a member of St. Andrews Lutheran Church at Eden Prairie, MN.

Florence was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Lloyd; daughter: Sharon; 4 brothers: Richard Carlson, Harold Carlson, Arnold Carlson, and Wayne Carlson; 2 sisters: Lillie Pearson and June Bergren.

Florence is survived by daughter: Sandra K Thompson of Eden Prairie, MN; grandchildren: Dr. Angela K. Thompson-Busch and husband Richard; Melissa A. Carrico; John W. Thompson and wife Karla; great-grandchildren: Connor Carrico, Grant Busch, Samuel Thompson, Jackson Busch and Lindsay Thompson; nieces, nephews, along with other relatives and friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held
Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 11:00 a.m.
at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home, Red Oak, Iowa
Burial in Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, IA

Visitation with the family present 1 hour prior to the funeral service at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home on Saturday, February 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

Elaine Johnson

Marie Elaine Johnson, 63, of Sioux City, Iowa, formerly of Clarinda, Iowa, died Tuesday, February 5, 2008, at her residence following a lengthy illness with CLPD and cancer.

Elaine was born April 26, 1944, in Red Oak, Iowa, the daughter of Clifford Dewitt and Mildred Irene (Beavers) Stackhouse. She graduated from Villisca High School in 1962. She worked at NSK Corporation from 1975 until 2000.

She is survived by her mother Mildred Irene Stackhouse of Clarinda, Iowa; son Kelli Lynn Johnson of Sioux City, Iowa; two sisters, Ann Magneson and husband Merlin of Clarinda, Iowa, Mary Stackhouse of Omaha, Nebraska; one grandchild, Sydney Johnson of Wichita, Kansas.
Elaine was preceded in death by her father, Clifford.

Funeral services were held Friday, February 8, 2008 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with interment at Arlington Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. A memorial fund has been established in Elaine's name. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Montie Dwight Sprague

Montie Dwight Sprague was born September 16, 1946 in Clarinda, Iowa to Robert Dwight and Marjorie Aileen (Tackett) Sprague. He left school to join the military. He served two tours during the Viet Nam War as a U.S. Marine from 1963 to 1974. In 1975 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served until December of 1977. He later worked security for Sunbest Foods in Clearfield.

He is survived by his sons Montie D. Sprague and wife Crystal, Peter J. Sprague and wife Maria, Tyler B. Sprague and wife Sherish, all of Sacramento, CA; grandchildren Ashley, Katline, Tyler Brian II and Justin James; brothers Mike Sprague of Villisca, Kenneth & Teresa Sprague of Villisca, Ricky & Victoria Sprague of Bedford, Randall Sprague of Corning, half brother Dale Bowman, and half sister Tammy Shroyer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Audrey P. Enarson Endowed Scholarship Fund, UNM Foundation, MSC 07 04-4260, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, N.M. 87131. Condolences to the family may be sent to Gooding, O’Hara and Mackey at 242 Taylor St., Port Townsend

Dean William Shields

Dean William Shields was born near Red Oak, Iowa, on April 22, 1920. He died January 16, 2008, in Jasper, Georgia, where he lived with his wife Susie. The son of Charles Shields and Vera Bass Shields McGill, he was raised on a farm in Iowa where he learned about plants, animals, and machinery. Into his seventies, Dean flew a light plane, and he loved to work out-of-doors at landscaping and in his orchard, always accompanied by his dog Sandy.

His education was at Elliott, Iowa, schools. In 1938, he was part of a crew of local boys who traveled from Omaha to India with 450 mules for the British army. He attended Tarkio College for two years, and learned to fly with the Civilian Pilot Training Program at the college, then as an aviation cadet in early 1942. As a pilot in the USAAF, he was assigned to the 99th Bomb Group which deployed to Algeria, close to and not long after the battle at Kasserine Pass, which took a heavy toll on the Red Oak community. Dean and his crew made it safely through their tours, mostly in a B17 named Yankee Doodle, the nose art of which included 11 swastikas (17 claimed) in its first 50 missions.

Dean returned to the states from his combat tour, married Mary Huston, and finished the war as an instructor pilot. He returned to Red Oak, started a manufacturing plant, but fire destroyed the factory in 1949. He then moved to northeast Louisiana, built and operated a series of increasingly larger and more unique machines for clearing timber. Dean described himself as "a machine builder." By that, he meant taking the idea, drawing it up on paper, building it, then debugging or modifying the machine until it worked as designed. He accumulated an impressive list of novel and useful machines over his lifetime, including many in the forest products industry. One of his most visible contributions is the center pivot cantilevered log boom used in wood yards throughout the South. He built computer-aided sawmill machines to increase the amount of lumber that could be obtained from typical smaller logs. He was named the inventor on two patents.

During the last 20 years of his life, Dean developed and introduced several "tools of the trade," in his words, including a high speed candy cane forming system. Another contribution was a safe and environmentally friendly aerosol can crushing system, handling thousands of cans per hour and capturing the propellants for use as an alternative fuel.

In addition to his wife, Dean is survived by four sisters, Grace Farquhar of Longmont, Colorado; Mary Galloway of Sioux City, Iowa; Harriett and Merle Strohbehn of Stillwater, Minnesota; and Laura and Nils Oldberg of Blair, Nebraska. Surviving family includes Margaret and Carl Marti of Boise, Idaho; Charles (Hugh) and Ramona Shields of Joplin, Missouri; Karen Shields of Hopkinsville, Kentucky; James and Catherine Shields of Birmingham, Alabama; and William and Laurel Shields of San Diego, California; stepchildren Jennifer Guinn of Ellijay, Georgia, and John Chivington of Jasper, Georgia. He is also survived by 13 grand- and 15 great-grandchildren.

Dean was preceded in death by his sons Stephen Shields and Thomas Shields, granddaughter Joy Shields Nowlin, and his ex-wife Mary.

Ruth D. Berggren

Ruth Dorothy Berggren, the daughter of Otto and Anna (Wigstone) Berggren, was born July 13, 1903 at Stanton, Iowa. She passed away on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at the Valley View Village, Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 104 years, 6 months and 2 days.

Ruth was baptized and confirmed at Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Stanton, Iowa. She attended Pittsburg Country School and graduated from Stanton High School in l923. After graduation, she moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where she took care of children in homes, while attending Des Moines University. Ruth graduated from Des Moines University with a teaching degree. Ruth and her sister, Frances, lived together all their adult life in Des Moines. Ruth worked for Equitable Life Insurance Company for 35 years. She joined the Capital Hill Lutheran Church in l927 and was a very active member. Ruth and her sister, Frances kept the financial membership records of the congregation for many years. She worked with a group of seven other women to make over 2,500 quilts from donated clothing and material, for C.R.O.P., Lutheran Relief, many missionaries throughout the world, and homeless people in Des Moines. In October of 1994, Ruth moved to Valley View Village in Des Moines. She resided in their Health Care Center for the last two and a half years.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; brother: Arthur G.; five sisters: Frances, Pearline, Mabel, Viola and Ermina.

Ruth is survived by nephews: Robert Berggren and wife Lynette of Clarksville, TN; Fred Berggren and wife Sharon of Nodaway, IA; David Berggren and wife Connie of Red Oak, IA; nieces: JoAnn Butler of Red Oak, IA; Mary Jantz and husband Dwight of Meno, OK; great-nephews and nieces; along with other relatives and friends.

Graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.Mamrelund Cemetery (Old Cemetery) Stanton, Iowa Rev. Lowell Schaaf, Officiating

Memorials to Stanton Historical Society

Memorial Service was held on Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at 2:00 p.m at the Valley View Village, 2571 Guthrie St., Des Moines, Iowa

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

Erma Steeve

Erma M. Steeve, 88, of Evansville, Indiana passed away Monday, January 7, 2008 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital. She was born October 18, 1919 in Clarinda, Iowa.
She was a member of the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Evansville. She was baptized November 14, 1919 at St. John's Lutheran Church, confirmed April 8, 1933 at Immanuel Lutheran Church and later attended Villisca Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Villisca, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester; parents, William and Anna (Steeve) Salomon; brother, Harry; and an infant sister.

Erma is survived by her daughter, Kathleen and husband, Bill, of Newburgh, Indiana; four grandchildren and families, Phillip and Heather of Ankeny, Iowa, David of Frisco, Texas, Michael and Brooke of Waterford, Michigan, and Lori and Bob of Plano, Texas, four great-grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan 12, 2008 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with Rev. Jerome Wagoner officiating. Interment was at Clarinda Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Lutheran Church of our Redeemer Memorial Trust Fund in Evansville, Indiana. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Willis Walton

Graveside sservices for Willis Walton, age 49 of Villisca, formerly of Carbon, who died Sunday, January 13, 2008 at the Montgomery County Hospital were held Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Oakland Cemetery in Quincy with military rites. Visitation was held for one hour prior to services at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning. Memorials can be given in his name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Willis Donyou Walton was born December 20, 1958, in Omaha, Nebraska the son of Willis Walton and Darlene (Armstrong) Walton. He grew up in the Carbon area attending both Carbon and Corning Community Schools. While in school, Willie worked for three of his uncles in used car lots. He then enlisted in the United States Army, serving four years and six months in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and three and a half years in Fort Riley, Kansas. Willie then worked for the railroad for a short time. His main occupation was concrete and carpentry. For thirteen years, Willie lived in Gresham, Oregon where he was united in marriage and had two children. The couple later divorced. Willie also lived in Des Moines for two years until 2003, when he became ill and returned to Villisca to be near his family.

Willie enjoyed being around family and friends. He liked football, softball, hunting, hand fishing, gambling, along with water and snow skiing. Willie always enjoyed a good challenge, no matter how difficult the task!

Left to cherish Willie's memory are his two children, Tanner and Perlie Walton of Gresham, Oregon; his father, Willis Walton of Villisca; sisters, Vickie Kuhn and husband Jim of Griswold; Dixie Walton of Carbon; Pixie Wilkinson of Corning; Mandy Walton of Villisca; Mitzi Walton and Stan Richie of Corning; Tracy Walton and Mike Cobb of Villisca; brothers, Rick Walton of Villisca; Larry Walton of Clarinda; Terry Walton and wife Cheryl of Corning; nine nieces; eight nephews; twelve great-nieces; twelve great-nephews; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Willie in death are his mother, Darlene Walton; maternal grandparents, Ilo and Annie Armstrong; paternal grandparents, Bud and Opal Walton; a brother, Russell Walton; a niece, Dandee Richie; and a brother-in-law, Virgil Wilkinson.

Although Willie will be greatly missed, his love and enjoyment of life will live on through his family.

Joann M. Strickland

Joann M. Strickland, 71, of Villisca, Iowa passed away Monday, January 7, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa. She was born July 15, 1936 in Grant, Iowa to Kenneth Arthur and Lovina Mae (Crist) Corbin.

Joann graduated from Elliott High School in 1954. On June 23, 1985 she married Dick Strickland. She worked at Union Carbide/Eveready in Red Oak for 27 years retiring in 1993. After retirement she continued working with jobs at Duckwall’s, D & D (formerly Margie’s) and Casey’s.

Joann is survived by her husband Dick Strickland of Villisca; daughters: Jeanne Prichard of Omaha, NE; Pam and husband Adam Tucker of Hurst, TX; Nancy and husband Donnie Bond of Red Oak, IA; step-daughter Debbie Schenck of Villisca, IA; grandchildren Adam and wife Abby Smith of Red Oak, IA; Lucas Tucker and Sean Tucker of Hurst, TX; Caleb Smith of Red Oak, IA; step-grandson Cody Clement of Villisca, IA; great grandson Aiden Smith of Red Oak, IA; brother Ronnie Corbin of Iowa City, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents Kenneth and Lovina Corbin and a brother Clifford Corbin.

Memorial services for Joann M. Strickland were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 10, 2008 at the Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca, Iowa. Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Interment was in the Villisca Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Villisca Fire & Rescue or the family. Wolfe Funeral Home, Villisca, Iowa responsible for the arrangements.

Evelyn M. Olson

Evelyn Mabel Albertine Olson, the daughter of John and Hilma (Sandquist) Anderson was born March 9, 1907 on a farm northeast of Stanton, Iowa. She passed away on Thursday, January 10, 2008 at the Creighton Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 100 years, 10 months and 1 day.

Evelyn lived on a farm near Stanton. When Evelyn was 13, she and her family moved to Nebraska. She graduated from high school in Genoa, Nebraska and shortly following graduation began teaching country school. She taught three years. Evelyn was united in marriage to Frank A. Olson on February 7, 1930 in Lincoln, NE. They farmed in Nebraska eight years. In 1938, Frank and Evelyn moved to a farm south of Atlantic, IA and farmed there three years. In 1941, Frank, Evelyn and the boys relocated making their home on a farm northeast of Red Oak. Evelyn was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Red Oak where she taught Sunday school for many years. She was active in the Women's Circles and helped in the kitchen for many events. Evelyn was a past 4-H leader and had served on the Boards of the Red Cross and American Cancer Society. She was also active in fundraising for the Heart and Lung Associations. In 1985, Evelyn and Frank retired from farming and moved into Red Oak. She had been a resident of Stanton Care Center the past five years. Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Frank on June 23, 1989; 5 brothers: Delmar, Oliver, Ellery, Raymond and Harold; 3 sisters: Aquilina, Esther and Eleanore; daughters-in-law: Marilyn Olson and Phyllis Olson.

Evelyn is survived by 4 sons: Robert Olson; Howard Olson and wife Carolyn; Ralph Olson and fiancée Joanne Garcia; and Lyle Olson all of Red Oak, IA; 11 grandchildren: John Olson of Ankeny, IA; Michael Olson and wife Marcie of Red Oak, IA; Nancie Platt and husband Ryan of Emerson, IA; Kim Ellis and husband Lynn of Red Oak, IA; Mark Olson and wife Kathleen of Huntington Beach, CA; Karla Wood and husband Jim of Red Oak, IA; Sheila Madsen and husband Curtis of West Des Monies, IA; David Olson and wife Lynne of West Des Moines, IA; Danny Olson and wife Kandee of Red Oak, IA; Diana Olson; and Steven Olson; 20 great-grandchildren, many other relatives and a host of friends.

Funeral Service will be held Monday, January 14, 2008 at 10:30 am at Bethlehem Lutheran Church
Burial in Evergreen Cemetery, Red Oak, IA. Rev. Dr. George Hooper, Officiating

Visitation with the family present at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home on Sunday, January 13 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 pm

Memorials to Bethlehem Lutheran Church or charity of your choice. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Joseph R. Farlin

Joseph Raymond Farlin, the son of Leo R. and Sharon L. (Baker) Farlin was born May 10, 1967 in Corning, Iowa. He died suddenly on Tuesday, December 18, 2007 at Creighton Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 40 years, 7 months, and 8 days.

Joseph was born in Corning, IA, and throughout his childhood he and his family lived in Villisca, Creston and Emerson, IA. Joseph was a 1985 graduate of Nishna Valley High School. Following high school, Joseph attended and graduated from Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO in l990. After graduation, he began working for Continental General Insurance and World Insurance both of Omaha, NE. Later, he moved to Des Moines, IA, where he worked for the Amerus Group. Joseph was united in marriage to Hana Buchtova on August 23, 2003 at Nove Mesto Na Morave, Czech Republic. Joseph and Hana relocated from Des Moines to Emerson, IA in May of 2005. Recently, he was employed with the U. S. Postal Service as a relief Postmaster. Joseph was a devoted race car fan; he faithfully watched and cheered on his St. Louis Cardinals baseball team; was a baseball card collector; and loved trains. Joseph was also an avid Nebraska fan. He was preceded in death by his father, Leo.

Joseph is survived by his wife: Hana Farlin of Emerson, IA; daughter: Ema; mother: Sharon Farlin of Emerson, IA; brother: Darrell Farlin of Emerson, IA; many aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives, along with friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held Friday, December 21, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at the Advent Christian Church in Villisca, IA. Burial in Arlington Cemetery, rural Villisca, IA. Rev. Kevin Skipworth, Officiating

A Memorial is being established in Joseph's name. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Merrill V. "Red" Erickson

Merrill V. "Red" Erickson, age 77, of Villisca, Iowa, formerly of Red Oak, Iowa passed away Monday, December 31, 2007 at the Villisca Good Samaritan Center. Merrill Vance "Red" Erickson was born September 23, 1930 in Montgomery County, Iowa the son of Vance and Signe (Lonn) Erickson. He was raised in Montgomery County graduating from Stennett High School in 1948. As a young man he raised hogs on the family farm and later worked for the elevator in Stennett. Merrill was a people person, always loving to visit with everyone. He enjoyed going for car rides, playing pitch, working word puzzles, fishing, watching western movies, and loved baseball. For the past several years Merrill has been a resident of the Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center. He was united in marriage to Louise Richie on January 16, 2005 in Villisca.

Survivors include his wife: Louise Erickson of Villisca, Iowa; sister: Joan Westerlund and husband Gene of Villisca, Iowa; step-brother: Clyde Jones and wife Naomi of Red Oak, Iowa; step-son: William Keesler and wife Roxanne of Des Moines, Iowa; step-grandchildren: Ryan Conart; Bert Conart; and Pearl Conart all of Des Moines, Iowa; 9 step-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, January 5, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Rev. Kevin Skipworth officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery. There will be open visitation at Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak. Memorials are suggested to the Villisca Good Samaritan Center Activity Fund or the Villisca Public Library.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Frank Holmes "JIM" Boggess

Jim Boggess was born September 16, 1924, at Villisca, Iowa, the son of Willis Glenn and Ruth Fryer Boggess. He was named Frank Holmes after his two grandfathers, but was called Jim from day one! Jim spent the first two years of his life in Storm Lake where his father managed a shoe store. It was there that his brother, Robert Glenn, was born.

In 1927 the family moved to a farm southeast of Villisca owned by Grandfather Fryer. Jim attended Sunny Slope country school and drove a Model A to Villisca High School where he was a charter member of the Reno Smith FFA Chapter, played basketball, and took part in drama and music, graduating in 1942.

In 1946 Jim married Effie Lee Narigon at the Nodaway Methodist Church. He was always very proud of their seven children, all of whom graduated from Villisca High School and various universities. He was an enthusiastic supporter of his children's school and 4-H activities and received the Honorary 4-H Award.

Jim was active in community affairs. He was an officer in both the Villisca School Parents Association and the Booster Club. He served on the Villisca Community School Board. He was a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge and the Order of Eastern Star. Jim was a long-time supporter of the Villisca Theatre, acting in two plays. He especially enjoyed emceeing the variety shows at the theatre for several years.

Jim was an active member of the Villisca United Methodist Church. He served in several capacities on the board and taught an adult Sunday School Class for many years. This class was the foundation of several community projects, including the Villisca Inter-Church Scholarship. Jim became a lay speaker and for a number of years filled in at area churches in the absence of the pastor.

Jim was supportive of farm organizations and was named a Master Pork Producer. He served on a local co-op board for several years and held many offices, including president and voting delegate, for Page County Farm Bureau. He was elected to the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors, representing Southwest Iowa's District 9 from 1981-1985, and received the Page County Service Award in 1984.

Jim was interested in political affairs. He served as chairman of the county Republican Party organization, and worked on campaigns for various candidates. In 1985 he became Agricultural Aide to newly elected Congressman Jim Ross Lightfoot, a position he held for 10 years. He spent the next 10 years assisting Effie as she served in the Iowa Legislature in Des Moines and was tireless as chauffeur and "gofer."

Jim enjoyed people and made friends easily. He and Effie enjoyed traveling, representing Farm Bureau and Congressman Lightfoot, or visiting children and grandchildren as they found career opportunities across the country.

Jim's greatest enjoyment was family and neighborhood outings--wiener roasts, potluck suppers, winter sledding events, or family get-togethers. He proudly hosted a farm party when the Fryer/Boggess farm reached the 100 year milestone. The highlight of all events was the player piano. He relished playing for children, grandchildren, or friends as they sang along with the piano roll. Jim also liked listening to big band music, and writing "pomes." Friends and family received his rhymes under the pen name "Taylor County's Best Beloved Pomeist, B.S. Rubble!"

Jim and Effie lived on the farm until 1999 when a tornado destroyed the buildings at which time they moved to Clarinda. The family still owns the farm and enjoys the native prairie established there on the old home site.

Jim entered into rest on December 22, 2007, at Clarinda, IA. He is survived by his wife Effie, Clarinda, IA, and children Marilyn Collister (John), Denver, CO; Susy Clayton (Dallas), Villisca, IA; Bill (Carolyn), Corvallis, OR; Dick (Pat), Newton, IA; Mark (Heather), Villisca, IA; Jane (Chris Morreale), San Leandro, CA; and Jim (Diane), Springfield, MO. He is also survived by eighteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, by his sister-in-law, Joan, Villisca, IA, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and Glenn Boggess, and by his brother Bob.

Funeral services for Jim were held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 28, 2007 at the Villisca United Methodist Church in Villisca, IA. Interment was at the Villisca Cemetery. The Boggess Memorial Fund has been established in his name. Donations may be given to the family or to Bank Iowa in Clarinda or