| 001Maxine passed away on Monday, January 30, 2012 at the Shenandoah Medical Center. Memorials may be directed to the Farragut Cemetery or the Shenandoah Fire and Rescue. Maybelle Maxine Booth was born on July 1, 1921 on a farm near Farragut, Iowa. She was the youngest daughter of Thomas William and Jennie Elizabeth Booth. Maxine entered into eternal peace on Monday, January 30, 2012 at the Shenandoah Medical Center, at the age of 90 years. Maxine grew up in the Manti community and attended school in Farragut. She graduated from Farragut Community School with the Class of 1939. Maxine worked in Shenandoah for several years before her marriage to Harold Lauman on September 28, 1947. After their marriage they moved to a farm in the Locust Grove township near Midway and lived there all of their married life. The couple was blessed with the birth of three children; Marilee, David and Larry. After Harold's death in December of 1990, Maxine moved to Shenandoah, where she lived the remainder of her life. She enjoyed being with her family and friends, her church and other activities. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Harold; and sisters Daisy Jeffery, Darlene Booth and Dorothy Krell. Those left to honor her memory include her children Marilee Pease and husband C.D., of Shenandoah, David Lauman and wife Susan of Omaha, NE and Larry Lauman and wife Beverly of Emerson, IA; two grandchildren Darin Pease and wife Jackie of Shenandoah and Christy Simon of Omaha, NE; 5 great-grandchildren Tori, Timothy, Joshua, Jenna and Kristina; 1 great-great grandchild Sophie; four nephews Jay Krell and wife Susan of Scottsboro, AL, Tom Krell and wife Jan of Huntsville, AL, Rodney Lauman of St. Johnsberry, VT and Ricky Lauman of Portland, ME; sister-in-law Carol Lauman of St. Johnsberry, VT; other relatives and dear friends |
| 002James Lewis Downing, son of Loren I. and Harryette I. (Baird) Downing, was born on January 9, 1938 in rural Casey, Iowa. He entered into eternal rest on Saturday, January 21, 2012 due to complications of congestive heart failure at the Creighton Medical Center in Omaha with his family at his side. Growing up in rural Casey, Jim attended the Casey Community Schools, graduating from Casey High School with the Class of 1956. On June 10, 1956, Jim was united in marriage to the love of his life, Rosalie Ann Alff, daughter of Lawrence and Violet Alff. To this union were born four children, Kelly, Ginger, Matthew and Sherrill. In 1961, the family moved to Shenandoah where Jim worked in construction and as a truck driver for the Post Office Star Route. In addition, he worked for Wesley Johnson at Johnson Welding. He purchased the business from Mr. Johnson in 1972, operating it as Downing Welding. In 1988, he opened Steel Fabrication Company, operating both businesses until his retirement in 1998. Following his retirement, Jim enjoyed working in his shop, mowing with his Cub Cadet and was an avid reader. A long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Shenandoah, Jim held many offices within the church. He was also a longtime member of the Shenandoah Optimist Club, where he spent many hours working with the youth of the Shenandoah community. He was a two-time Past President of the Iowa Blacksmith and Weldors Association and was also active in the National Blacksmiths and Weldors Association. Jim served as Regional Representative for southwest Iowa with the organization, Youth For Understanding, placing students from other countries in homes throughout southwest Iowa for the school year. His family hosted two international exchange students. Preceding Jim in death were his parents; mother and father-in-law; step mother, Mildred Fox Downing; step mother-in-law, Freda Lund Alff; and dear family friend, the Reverend Don Mann. Survivors include his loving wife of 55 plus years, Rosalie Downing of Shenandoah; four children, Kelly Downing and wife Dee Ann of Wahoo, NE, Ginger Downing and husband Jack Noble of Edina, MN, Matthew Downing of Shenandoah and Sherrill Ehlen and husband Jim of Miami, FL; four grandchildren, Doug Downing (Kim) of Yigo, Guam, Blair Noble of Edina, MN and Emily and William Ehlen of Miami, FL; three great granddaughters, Cheyenne and Gabriel Haney and Christin Downing of Guam. Other survivors include his sister, Mary Fredrickson and husband Norman of Omaha; brother, Robert Downing and his wife Ginger of Green Valley, AZ; brothers and sisters-in-law, Wendell and Darlene Alff of Sacramento, CA, and Bill and Shirley Kenny of Omaha; dear family friend, Nancy Mann of Ft. Dodge, IA; many cousins, nieces and nephews; many friends; and recent 4-legged companion, Pudge |
| 003Hazel Marie Lewis was born on January 28, 1919, in Athelstan, Iowa, the daughter of Burl and Anna (White) Brown. Hazel entered into eternal rest on Thursday, January 19, 2012 at the Red Oak Care Center. During her working years Hazel was employed as a truck driver and worked at Union Carbide for nearly 30 years, until her retirement. She was a lifelong member of the Nazarene Church where she taught Sunday School and served as Missionary President for many years. She was deeply devoted to her family, church and to God. As a way to give back to the community, Hazel started the Food Pantry in Red Oak and managed it until she was physically unable to do so any longer. She also served as a caregiver to the elderly for over 20 years. She loved to fish, watch wrestling, and enjoyed watching the squirrels from her window. She was also an avid Bible reader. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Darrel Alexander; second husband, George Hall; and third husband, French "Toby" Lewis; an infant daughter Alice Faye; brother-in-law Everett Rowe; her parents; and great-grandson Jax Carroll. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter Anna Sunderman and husband Joe of Clarinda; five grandchildren, Jessie Patterson, Jade Brownfield; Tobi Dayle Sunderman, Caleb Sunderman and Miranda Sunderman; two sisters, Lillian Freuck of Red Oak, IA and Violet Rowe of Essex, IA; two nephews, Larry Brown and wife Joan of Emerson and Dwayne Rowe of Essex; niece, Barbara Allocco and husband Len of Omaha; many great-nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends |
| 004Ruth Mary (McDonald) McDonald was born on November 5, 1929 in Neola, Iowa the daughter of William and Grace (Good) McDonald. Ruth entered into eternal peace on Thursday, January 19, 2012 at the Stanton Care Center. Ruth's early years were spent in the communities of Neola and Underwood. She attended Underwood High School and graduated with the Class of 1949. She was voted Homecoming Queen her senior year. On June 22, 1955 she was united in marriage to James P. McDonald in Westin, Iowa. The couple made their home in Imogene, Iowa. Ruth was a dedicated wife and mother. She worked alongside her husband Jim and oversaw the daily operations of the farm. She was a member of the St. Patrick Catholic Church and the Altar Society. Some of her passions included cooking, she was an accomplished seamstress, enjoyed gardening, crocheting, doing needlepoint, and spoiling her grandchildren. Ruth was famous for making the "best" lemon meringue pie! She was an inspiration to her family and will be deeply missed. She was preceded in death by her parents; her granddaughter Mary Grace McDonald; son Michael McDonald, Sr.; brother Bernard McDonald and wife Iris; sister Rose Kathryn Leonard and husband Edward; brother Raymond McDonald and wife Beverly and sister Patricia Gridle and husband James. Those left to cherish her memory include her husband James McDonald of Emerson, IA; son Thomas McDonald and wife Susan and their son Levi; daughter-in-law Suzanne McDonald of Emerson, IA and her children Megan Kendrick and husband Josh of Glenwood, IA, Michael McDonald, Jr. of Emerson, IA and Katie McDonald of Emerson; great-grandchild Mason Kendrick of Glenwood, IA; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends |
| 005Ruby Charlene Maher was born April 13, 1935 in Savannah, Missouri, the daughter of Charles and Emma (Webster) Lincoln. She passed away early Friday morning, February 17, 2012 at her home in Shenandoah, Iowa surrounded by her husband and three children, at the age of 76 years, 10 months and 4 days. Ruby grew up in Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School in 1953. On July 10, 1956 she was united in marriage to Thomas Jerome Maher in Shenandoah. This union was blessed with three children; Trent, Sheila and Patrick. Following her marriage, Ruby and Tom moved to Gravity and farmed for 55 years and moved back to Shenandoah in 2010. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the American Legion Auxiliary for more than 47 years where she served as secretary/treasurer for many years. She was also a member of the Gravity Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Glen Lincoln; sister, Darlene Nesmith; and sister-in-law, Susie Lincoln. Survivors include her husband Tom Maher of Shenandoah, Iowa; her children, Trent Maher of Ankeny, Iowa, Sheila Hahn and her husband Myron of Nebraska City, Nebraska, Patrick Maher and his wife Megan of West Des Moines, Iowa; four grandchildren, Brett Hahn, Brianne Maher, Riley Maher, Blake Maher; a brother, Leon Lincoln of Overland Park, Kansas; a sister, Doris Moore of Eugene, Oregon; a sister-in-law, Alice Lincoln of Llano, Texas; along with many other relatives and friends |
| 006Dorothy Irene (Thompson) Keith was born October 14, 1919 on a farm south of Bedford, Iowa. She was the youngest of three daughters born to Troy and Cora (Parks) Thompson. She spent her elementary school years in a nearby country school, and then lived with her maternal grandparents in Bedford to be within walking distance of Bedford High School, graduating in 1936. Throughout her school years, Dorothy was an active 4-H member and won many awards, including “Most Beautiful Complexion.” Following high school graduation, and teacher preparation, Dorothy taught elementary school at Ross #3 Country School. With her first paychecks she proudly purchased one of her prized possessions, a gold Bulova watch. Dorothy taught for a few years while her high school sweetheart, James Keith, moved to Kansas City to follow his dream as a commercial artist and continue his “Bobby Bear” cartoon for the Kansas City Journal. But a year later, missing the love of his life, and yearning for the farm, James returned to Bedford, became engaged to Dorothy in 1939 and married April 20, 1940. Dorothy and James farmed south of Bedford for the next several years. During these years they purchased their first farm and three children were born. They enjoyed their family summer vacations—always west—Seattle, Rocky Mountains, the Black Hills, California. Weekends included the “Saturday Night 500 Club” with friends. Dorothy and James were active in the Church of Christ where she loved to sing with a lovely soprano voice. She had a passion for reading and learning and always followed her weekly shopping in town with visits to the public library. Sadly, in 1957, her youngest daughter, Jana, passed away at the age of 18 months. This was a significant milestone that led to a lifestyle change for Dorothy and James. In 1958, they built a new home in Bedford on North Street—James doing almost all the labor. Dorothy began working at Thompson’s on Main Street, and shortly thereafter enrolled at Northwest Missouri State College. She and her best friend, Margaret Huelskamp, commuted a few times a week to Maryville, Missouri, to achieve their dreams of graduating from college. And that she did, with honors, in 1964. During these years, Dorothy and James satisfied their entrepreneurial spirits and love for the West by spending summers in Estes Park where Dorothy worked at a western clothing retail store and James was a carpenter. After graduating from college, Dorothy taught home economics for a year in Des Moines, Iowa, then landed the job of Page & Fremont County Home Economist. She and James bought a farm just east of Clarinda on Highway 71 and they began their plans to build a new home and a new life in Clarinda, Iowa. Dorothy and James became vital and highly respected members of the Clarinda and Page/Fremont County communities. Dorothy achieved many honors in her field of work. She also supported James with his farming efforts and shared in his accomplishments, such as the State President Distinguished Pioneer Champions Club award for superior corn production. Her contributions to 4-H, the Page County Fair and the state fair are memorable. After 15 years as Page/Fremont County Home Economist, Dorothy retired. James retired gradually over the next few years. During these retired years, Dorothy and James made many contributions to their community, actively supported their two adult children and had some fun. Dorothy was a valuable member of PEO and other community organizations, belonged to several bridge groups and continued to be an avid reader. She and James made many improvements to their showcase home on 20th Street, designed by their architect son—none of which she loved more than her rose garden along the back patio. They were active members in the First Christian Church, gourmet club, and contributed significantly to the development of the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum. They travelled extensively with friends in the U.S. and abroad, and found great pleasure in visits to Denver and the Rocky Mountains where they snow skied with their children and grandchildren. Several years into their retirement they discovered Arizona and spent several enjoyable winter months in its sunshine. They had a very rich life with beloved friends and family. In December, 1999, Dorothy lost James. Despite this great blow and several significant health episodes, Dorothy maintained a good life in her home in Clarinda. She enjoyed her coffee klatches with friends, her bridge, her church circle and other activities. In 2004 Dorothy moved to Sioux City to be closer to family. She continued to find joy in her card games, though they now were on the computer, her reading and her contact with family and friends. Dorothy passed away Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at the Sunrise Retirement Community in Sioux City, Iowa. She is preceded in death by James, her husband of 59 years; her daughter, Jana; her daughter-in-law, Caye Cross Keith; and her parents and sisters. Dorothy is survived by her son, Kenneth Keith and wife Judy from Dakota Dunes, S.D.; daughter, Joyce Gietl and husband Jerry from Denver, CO; four grandchildren and their six children: Lisa Sudtelgte and husband Tim from Cypress, TX, Braden Keith and fiancé Becca from Sioux City, IA, Erik Smith and wife Lisa from Denver, CO, Stephanie Langer and husband Mark from Stamford, CT. She is also survived by four step-grandchildren, Jenni and Jay Gietl, and Chris and Pat Fox and their six children. Funeral services for Dorothy will be held 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at the First Christian Church in Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will follow the service at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa. Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday evening from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Clarinda. Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Siouxland, 4300 Hamilton Blvd., Sioux City, Iowa 51104. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements |
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Funeral services for Phyllis Miller, age 83, of Hepburn/Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Saturday, February 18, 2012 at Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Bettie Hull officiating. Open visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday. Burial will be in the North Grove Cemetery, rural Clarinda, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association. 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 Charlene Miller was born April 6, 1928 to William Delford Orme and Hettie Jane (Van Alstine) Orme at Clarinda, Iowa. Phyllis was one of eight children. She grew up in the Hawleyville area attending the Orme rural School and Clarinda High School. Phyllis was united in marriage on August 15, 1948, at Clarinda, Iowa to Donald Miller. They were blessed with four children, Ernie, Linda, David and Roger. Prior to her marriage, Phyllis worked at the J. C. Penney store. She was a long time employee of Lisle Corporation, starting in the factory and working for over thirty years in the office. Phyllis enjoyed gardening, canning and cooking for her family. They especially remember her wonderful cinnamon rolls, noodles and raisin cookies. She enjoyed cooking special holiday dinners for all of her family. Phyllis and Donald enjoyed camping and fishing. Her family was very important to Phyllis and she enjoyed all of the times they were together. She enjoyed cooking and laughing and was quite a jokester. Preceding Phyllis in death were her parents; husband, Donald Miller; brothers, Marvin Orme, Delford Orme and two infant brothers; sisters, Mae Parsons, Amy Buchanan, Velma Lofgren and Arlene Fulton. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Ernie Miller and wife Jacquie of Spearville, Kansas, Linda Rose and husband David of New Market, Iowa, David Miller and wife Jeanette of Braddyville, Iowa, Roger Miller and wife Lisa of Clarinda, Iowa; ten grandchildren, Rex Miller and wife Shanda of Kansas, Ken Miller and wife Billie of Kansas, Mike Rose and wife Tuesday of Clarinda, Iowa, Melissa Hull and Craig of Clarinda, Iowa, Bobbie Wallace of Atlantic, Iowa, Jodi Miller of Maryville, Missouri, Justin Miller of Braddyville, Iowa, Billie Poland and husband Aaron of Ames, Iowa, Erin Henderson and husband Kelly of Norwalk, Iowa and Jamie Criswell and husband Adam of Ankeny, Iowa; fifteen great grandchildren; brother, Charles Orme and wife Shirley of Clarinda, Iowa; sister-in-law, Cleva Herzberg and husband Ted of Clarinda, Iowa; sister-in-law, Joan Miller of Urbandale, Iowa; sister-in-law, Norma Orme of Northboro, Iowa; brother-in-law, Hal Fulton of Villisca, Iowa; nieces; nephews; and many friends. Phyllis will be missed by her family but her memory will live on in their heart. |
| 008Earl, age 80 passed away on Tuesday morning at The Ambassador in Sidney. Earl "Sonny" Armstrong was born on February 6, 1932 in Carbon, Iowa, the son of Orlo "Butch" and Daisy (Sterns) Armstrong. Earl entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at The Ambassador in Sidney, Iowa surrounded by his loving family. Earl had a long battle with many different chronic medical conditions, but he is now safe at rest, with his Lord. Earl's early years were spent in the Carbon area where he attended school. He loved the sport of horseracing from an early age, a passion which he passed along to his children. He also enjoyed attending the Adams County Speedway. In September of 1949 he was united in marriage to Betty Thompson and to this union four children were born; Kenneth, Betty Jo, John, and Bert. When Betty passed Earl remarried and this union was blessed with the birth of a son Troy. Earl served his country as a soldier with the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. During his working years Earl worked in the coal mines near Carbon and Centerville, this was work which he was very proud of and really enjoyed. In the late 1950's Earl relocated to the Shenandoah area, where he began working in the local nursery's. He eventually became a supervisor for a local nursery until the late 70's. Earl eventually made his home in Essex where he continued to live until his illness forced him into a nursing home. Some of Earl's passions included fishing, riding horses, attending country music shows, playing cards and spending time with his family. In most recent years, Earl came to love his recent weekly visits from his dear friend Jerry Crandall. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty Armstrong; sister, Leona Walford; son, John Armstrong; and granddaughter Claire McKinney. Those left to honor is memory include his children, Kenneth Armstrong and wife Michelle of Essex; Betty Jo Phillips and husband Terry of Shenandoah; Bert Armstrong and Troy Armstrong both of Shenandoah; 5 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends |
| 009Jesse, 91 passed away at his home in Shenandoah, surrounded by his loving family. Memorials may be directed to the Jesse Williams Memorial Fund. Jesse Gerald Williams, age 91, passed away February 27, 2012 at his home in Shenandoah, Iowa. Jesse was born on October 9, 1920 to John Andrew, Sr. and Effie G. (Hagey) Williams, in Burlington Junction, Missouri. Jesse's family lived in Burlington Junction until moving to Shenandoah in 1923. He graduated from Shenandoah High School with the Class of 1939. During World War II, Jesse enlisted in the United States Navy, where he became a Motor Machinist's Mate First Class. He served from 1942 until 1945 in the following places: San Diego, Kaneohe Bay, Palmyra Island, and Pearl Harbor. Jesse was a member of the Shenandoah American Legion and Disabled American Veterans. On July 17, 1960, Jesse married Anna Lucille Dooley in Hamburg, Iowa, where they lived for two years, before moving to Shenandoah in 1962. He was employed at several local garages before working at Williams Brothers Garage as a mechanic until his retirement. Jesse had many hobbies, some of his favorites were: trapshooting, (he participated in many tournaments and won many trophies); woodworking, (he enjoyed making furniture and gunstocks); stockcar racing (he and his brothers had a team in the 1950's); and carpentry (he built his home). He also enjoyed yard work, watching sports on TV and hearing about his grandsons' activities (school and sports). Preceding Jesse in death were his wife Lucille Williams; his parents; brothers, Floyd, Alvin, Leo, John, Nelson, and Virgil; and sisters, Edna, Jane and Alice. Jesse will be sadly missed by his daughter, Diane Remar and her husband Jim of Ralston, Nebraska; grandsons Jared and Justin Remar of Ralston, Nebraska; brother, Russell Williams of Shenandoah, Iowa; Sisters-in-law, Emma Williams of Shenandoah, Iowa and Vivian Houts of Kansas City, Missouri; nieces, Nancy Williams of Shenandoah, Iowa and Mary Lou Davis of Shenandoah, Iowa; nephews, Richard D. Houts of Kansas City, Missouri, Robert Williams of Lanark, Illinois and Ronald Williams of Broomfield, Colorado; numerous great nieces and great nephews; other relatives and friends |
| 010Martha Ann Bidwell Welchans entered into eternal rest at the age of 85 years, 5 months and 23 days, under the loving care of her family and Iowa Hospice on February 23, 2012, at her country home south of Farragut. Martha Ann Bidwell was born in Red Oak, Iowa, on September 1, 1926, the second daughter of Kenneth O. Bidwell and Hope Ann (Allen) Bidwell. Later on Martha, her parents, and her older sister Araruth moved to Shenandoah, Iowa, and lived there for a short time before moving to Farragut, Iowa. Soon a new sister, Jane, was born and after some time, brother John completed the family. Martha attended Farragut High School where she was active in many school activities, graduating in 1943. She enjoyed girls' basketball while she was in high school and in her adult life was an avid fan, supporter, and sponsor of Farragut girls' basketball. Following her graduation, she attended business school in Omaha. At that time the family moved to Casper, Wyoming, where her father worked for the railroad. During her time in Casper, Martha worked for an insurance agency. In 1948 Carl Welchans, a classmate at Farragut High School, returned from World War II. Carl traveled to Martha's home in Casper where they were married on November 23, 1948. They returned to Iowa where Carl had purchased a farm, and they made a home and raised three sons: Dave, Kenny and Bill. Martha was a farm wife for many years and later worked as a census taker. She particularly enjoyed selling Avon products and worked for several years as a ward clerk at Grape Hospital in Hamburg. Martha was employed in Dr. Jerry Schaaf's medical offices in Sidney, Farragut, and Shenandoah, for over twenty years. She also worked in the offices of Shenandoah Medical Center until her retirement. Preceding her in death were her parents, Kenneth and Hope Bidwell, sister Araruth Nihart, and nephew John Bidwell,Jr. Martha is survived by her husband of 64 years, Carl B. Welchans of rural Farragut; son David A. Welchans and special friend Sheryl Sanders of rural Farragut; son Kenneth C. Welchans and wife Peggy Sue of rural Farragut; son William B. Welchans and wife Angie of Farragut; seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; a sister Jane Norman and husband Dave of Moorcroft, Wyoming; brother John Bidwell and wife Carol of Casper, Wyoming; and many other relatives and friends |
| 011Patricia June Schave was born June 3, 1938 in Bishops Cleeve, England, the daughter of Jack and Winifred Ethel Mary (Hazzard) McGeoch. She passed away on Saturday evening, February 25, 2012 at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha at the age of 73 years, 8 months and 22 days. Patricia grew up and graduated from high school in England. She later moved to the United States and raised her three sons. On January 9, 2004, she was united in marriage to Greg Schave in Shenandoah, Iowa. Patricia was a member of the Shenandoah Eagle’s Club. She enjoyed gardening and raising flowers. She was always up for a social or family gathering. She loved to go to garage sales and to shop for antiques. Her true love was her family, especially her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Megan. Survivors include her husband, Greg Schave of Shenandoah, Iowa; her three sons, Kenneth Dean Colebank of Red Oak, Iowa, Patrick James Colebank of Red Oak, Iowa, Michael Sean Colebank of Red Oak, Iowa; two brothers, Bruce McGeoch of Bishops Cleeve, England, John McGeoch of Preston, England; a sister, Vivian Stanley and her husband Les of Bishops Cleeve, England; along with many other relatives and friends |
| 012Harlan Lester White was born March 29, 1930 in Burlington Junction, Missouri, the son of Hugh Lee and Eva Esther White. He passed away on Friday evening, February 24, 2012 at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa at the age of 81 years, 10 months and 26 days. Harlan grew up in Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School in 1948. After high school, he served in the United States Army from 1951 to 1953 in Japan during the Korean War. On December 22, 1952, he was united in marriage to Donis Ahrens. This union was blessed with three children; Michael Lee (57), Harlan Marten (56) and Sharon Kay (55). After his marriage, Harlan moved to Omaha, Nebraska where he was the manager of Peony Park for nine years. In 1963, they moved to Red Oak where he managed the Red Coach Inn & Lounge. He later retired from the Farmers Mercantile Coop after 30 years of employment. After Harlan’s health began to deteriorate, he and Donis moved to Shenandoah in2007. Harlan lived his last 10 months in the good care at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah. Harlan will be remembered as a loving husband of 60 years, his good sense of humor and his large number of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, George White. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Donis White of Shenandoah, Iowa; his children, Mike White and his wife Deb of Indianola, Iowa; their three daughters and three grandchildren, Marty White and his wife Lil of Roy, Utah, their three daughters, 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren, Sharon Moree and her husband Curtis of Shenandoah, Iowa, and their son and three grandchildren; a brother Robert Wayne White of South Carolina; along with many other relatives and friends |
| 013Joyce Roberta Bettis was born March 2, 1945 in Shenandoah, Iowa the daughter of Morris Richard and Charlotte Rose (Collings) Thompson. She passed away on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah at the age of 66 years, 11 months and 21 days. Joyce grew up in Shenandoah and attended Shenandoah Public Schools. She was later married to Harold Bettis in Sheandoah and this union was blessed with three children, Harold Allen, James Walter and Mary Ellen. Joyce enjoyed cooking and gardening. She was known for her beautiful rose gardens. Her true love was her family, especially her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Richard and Michael Thompson; and two sisters, Dorothy Stevens and Jacqueline Thompson. Survivors include her children, Harold Bettis and his wife wife Mary of Georgia, James Bettis of Clarinda, Iowa, Mary Binau of Shenandoah, Iowa; grandchildren, Charles Binau III of Nebraska City, Nebraska, Jessica Rose Binau of Shenandoah, Iowa; three great grandchildren, Exavier, Davin and Carson; two sisters, Sharon Greedy and her husband Dale of Sidney, Iowa, Diane Resh Miller of Oklahoma, Susan Foster of Omaha, Nebraska, Theresa Schluter and her husband Alan of Maryville, Missouri; along with many other relatives and friends |
| 014Barbara Caroline Bredensteiner was born was born April 15, 1926 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the daughter of Oscar and Ida Fern (Mackoy) Gruber. She passed away on Saturday morning, February 18, 2012 at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa at the age of 85 years, 10 months and 3 days. Barbara grew up and lived her entire life on the family farm in Locust Grove Township near Shenandoah, Iowa. She attended Locust Grove Country School and graduated from Farragut High School in 1944. On December 20, 1946, she was united in marriage to Duane Bredensteiner at the Locust Grove United Methodist Church. This union was blessed with three children, LoAnn, Scott and David. Barbara helped with the dairy and farm operation. She also worked at Henry Fields in Shenandoah and at the Hamburg Public Library. During the farm crisis of the 80’s she and her husband worked for the Waubonsie Mental Health as farm crisis counselors. Barbara was a lifelong member of the Locust Grove United Methodist Church, Farm Bureau, D.A.R., Antique Club and U.M.W. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Duane; 2 sisters, Anna Marie Gruber and Louise Gruber; and one grandson, Tim Beran. Survivors include her children, LoAnn Beran and her husband Joe of Northboro, Iowa, Scott Bredensteiner and his wife Sandy of Pflugerville, Texas, David Bredensteiner of Bedford, Iowa; nine grandchildren; three great grandchildren; three step sisters, Carol Barnes of Westboro, Missouri, Laurel Craven of Tarkio, Missouri, Coral Elandt of Simi Valley, California; along with many other relatives and friends |
| 015Lester O. Smith was born June 23, 1956 in Atlantic, Iowa, the son of Robert J. and Helen (Hedger) Smith. He passed away suddenly on Thursday afternoon, February 23, 2012 at the Clarinda Regional Health Center in Clarinda, Iowa at the age of 55 years and 8 months. Lester grew up in Atlantic and attended Atlantic public schools. He later served his country in the Iowa National Guard. On September 26, 1987 he was united in marriage to Linda Woolverton at the Memorial Baptist Church in Shenandoah. This union was blessed with two children, Natasha and Jason. Lester enjoyed model cars and trains. You could always find him outside tinkering with a car or two in the driveway. He also liked repairing shoes and driving a truck. Lester loved the outdoors, especially camping, fishing and walking his dogs. He was always cracking a joke and always enjoyed a John Wayne movie. His true love was his children. He loved helping them with their various school projects. He was preceded in death by parents. Survivors include his wife, Linda of Shenandoah, Iowa; his children, Natasha Smith and Jeremiah Strange of Shenandoah, Iowa, Jason Smith of Shenandoah, Iowa; two brothers, Dwight Smith and his wife Pamela of Dover Fox Croft, Maine, Leslie Smith of Council Bluffs, Iowa; brother and sisters-in-law, Darlene Murphy and her husband Robert of Oelwein, Iowa, Joyce Hagen of Hedrick, Iowa, Ellis Woolverton of Hamburg, Iowa, Mineta Woolverton of Hamburg, Iowa, Elmer Woolverton of Florida, Betty Burke of Albert Lea, Minnesota, John Woolverton of Rogers, Arkansas; along with many other relatives and friends |
| 016Danley K. Lorimor was born November 19, 1932 in Hamburg, Iowa, the son of James Harold and Floy Elaine (King) Lorimor. He passed away on Wednesday afternoon, February 15, 2012 in Sidney, Iowa at the age of 79 years, 2 months and 27 days. Dan grew up in rural Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School in 1951. On February 27, 1955, he was united in marriage to Frances Moss at the Methodist Church in Shenandoah. This union was blessed with three children; Linda, Tom and Paul. Dan was a farmer all his life. He enjoyed traveling and being outside where he could hunt, fish, trap and operate his bulldozer. His true love was flying his Super Cub. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Jackie McLaren. Survivors include his wife, Frances Lorimor of Sidney, Iowa; his children, Linda Maxwell and her husband Don of White Heath, Illinois, Tom Lorimor and his wife Rita of Sidney, Iowa, Paul Lorimor and his wife Sherry of Archie, Missouri; five grandchildren, Thomas Bailey of Tel Aviv, Israel, Debra Straw and her husband Josh of Lincoln, Nebraska, Renee Johnson and her husband Ross of Denver, Colorado, Wyatt Lorimor and Weston Lorimor of Archie, Missouri; great granddaughter, Kaedyn Straw of Lincoln, Nebraska; along with many other relatives and friends |
| 017George passed away early Wednesday morning, February 15, 2012 at Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda |
| 018Dale Maynard Anderson, formerly of Martelle, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, January 8, 2012, at Kingswood Senior Living Community, Kansas City, MO, surrounded by his family after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Dale was born February 27, 1928, to J.J. and Hilda Anderson, on a farm near New Market, Iowa. He graduated from New Market High School in 1945. After high school, he graduated from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, in 1951 with a Commerce Degree, and a 2nd Lt. Commission from the U.S. Army ROTC program. Dale then served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 10 years. On June 17, 1951, he married Doris Evelyn Andrew. They began farming with his parents northeast of New Market. In 1960, he and Doris moved from the farm and began Dale’s 32 year career in banking. He initially worked at the First National Bank, Logan, Iowa, and then moved to Martelle, Iowa in 1963, where he was the manager and then President of the Farmers Savings Bank until his retirement in 1992. Doris worked with Dale at the Martelle bank for many years. Dale was also a real estate broker, appraiser, and insurance agent serving the Martelle community. Dale was very active in the Martelle community, including being a 48 year member of the Martelle United Methodist Church, serving as Martelle City treasurer, numerous years on the board of the Anamosa Community Hospital and member of the Masons, Knights of Pythias, and Martelle Volunteer Fire Department. In 1972 he served as the Chairman for the Martelle Centennial Celebration, at which over 10,000 people attended the 3 day event, including Governor Robert Ray, Senator John Culver, and numerous other state and local officials. After retirement, Dale and Doris continued their love of travel, including making several trips to Sweden where he located his family ancestral records, played golf at St. Andrews, Scotland, visited numerous European countries, and experienced the Holy Land. Throughout his adult life, Dale was a proud alumni and passionate supporter of the Iowa Hawkeye football and basketball teams; including attending all home games and following the Hawks to tournaments in Alaska, Hawaii, and games at all Big Ten schools. He maintained his season football tickets for 45 consecutive years and loved to talk about the days the Hawks were able to beat those Cyclones. Dale was preceded in death by his wife Doris in 2009, parents, brothers Duane and Ronald Anderson, sisters-in-law Helen and Ethel Anderson, and brother-in-law Wayne Kerr. He is survived by his sisters Lois (Kenneth) Garrett, Clarinda, IA, and Elynor Kerr, Leesburg, VA; children, Denean (Mark) Smith of De Pere, WI, and Dean (Marcia) Anderson of Overland Park, KS; granddaughters Kristin and Sarah Smith and Katie Anderson; and numerous nieces and nephews. Dale’s family appreciates all the care and support provided by the staff of Kingswood Senior Living Community. Memorials may be directed to the Martelle United Methodist Church, Anamosa Regional Hospital, City of Martelle Senior Center, Kingswood Spiritual Care Program, or charity of your choice. Visitation will be on Tuesday, January 10th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa; followed by funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 11th. Internment will be at Memory Cemetery, New Market. |
| 019Maxine D. (Peterson) McKelligan was born October 24, 1918 in Eldon, Iowa, to Emer and Florence Cahill. For those who knew her, she will be best remembered as a wonderful giving friend and neighbor who never gave up on life. Maxine was a devoted mother and will be missed by all. Maxine peacefully passed away on January 20, 2012 at Milder Manor in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was preceded in death by her husbands: Norman Peterson in 1975, and John McKelligan in 1996; sisters: Patricia Cahill, Katherine Rope and her husband Darrell and Eva Foster and her husband Boyd; brothers: Ralph Cahill and his wife Madelyn and Donald Cahill and brother-in-law Charles Maier. Maxine is survived by her two children: Larry Peterson and wife Shelia and Norma Peterson both of Lincoln, Nebraska; grandson Bret Peterson of Long Beach, California; granddaughters Amy of Dubai A.E., and Alyssa Montgomery of Fresno, California; great grandchildren, Austin and Devin of Fresno, California; sisters: Betty Maier of Omaha, Nebraska and Martha Williams of Clarinda; brother Richard Cahill and wife Katherine of Fairfield, Arkansas; sister-in-law Mary Cahill of Clarinda, Iowa; nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Funeral services for Maxine (Cahill) Peterson will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 26, 2012 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa with burial to follow the service in the Clarinda Cemetery. Open visitation is scheduled Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home |
| 020Our treasured Evelyn Ruth (Geer) Hixson left this life, but never our hearts on February 22, 2012. "Evie" was born on March 30, 1935 to Eddie and Alma Geer in New Market, Iowa. She married Lowell Deane Hixson on September 29, 1951. Together they had four children: Carolyn, Darrell, Ed and Richard. Later in life she was joined with the love of her life, Marvin Clark. Marvin and his two children, Steve Clark and Lisa Tiedt forever joined our family. Evie had many talents and interests. She never failed to make us laugh and was unusually lucky at card games. Coloring Easter eggs with grandkids and great-grandkids was always a favorite activity. Other things she enjoyed were: bingo, bowling, dinner with friends, late night phone calls, dancing, practical jokes, shoes, reading, shopping, food and traveling. Evelyn was proceeded in death by: Louise Lawger (Sister), Eddie and Alma Geer (Father and Mother), Lisa Tiedt (Step-daughter) and Steve Clark (Step-son). She leaves behind: Marvin Clark and Molly (cherished dog), Irene Lewis (Sister), Carolyn Hixson, Darrell Hixson, Ed Hixson, Richard Hixson (Children), Eleven Grandchildren, Eleven Great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, many family and dear friends. Upon her request there will be no services. Her memory will be celebrated in our hearts. Evie's grace and love was and still is immeasurable |
| 021Max E. "Tood" Macrander, 83, of Ashland, NE died Friday, Feb. 24, 2012 at the Oxbow Living Center, Ashland, NE. Max was born on April 2, 1928 in Westboro, MO to Ross and Alpha (Hartley) Macrander. He graduated from Westboro High School and served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He married Patricia (Rucker) on November 2, 1953 in Clarinda, IA. Max was a life long trucker. He retired from driving truck for Great Plains Service in Ashland after 27 years. After retiring he worked as a salesman for Wild Bill's Beef Jerkey. Max was a member of the Ashland American Legion Post #129. Survivors are his wife Pat of Ashland, NE, children and spouses, Terry and Pat Macrander of Sioux City, IA, Sherry Campbell of Lincoln, NE, Bryan and Theresa Macrander of Fremont, NE, Julie and Dan Smith of Ashland, NE, 9 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, brother and sister in law, Melvin and Shirley Macrander of Fremont, NE. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Feb/ 28, 2012 at 10:30 AM at Marcy Mortuary, Ashland, NE. Burial was private. Visitation was held Monday, 4-8 PM with family receiving friends from 6-8 PM and l hour prior to service, all at the Mortuary. Memorials in care of the family. Marcy Mortuary, Ashland, NE was in charge of arrangements |
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Funeral services for Charles Hooper, age 76, of Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 5, 2012 at Ritchie Funeral Home with Reverend Leslie Traylor officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday March 5 at the funeral home prior to service. Burial will be 2:30 p.m., March 5, 2012, in the Maitland Cemetery, Maitland, Missouri. 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. Charles Bethel Hooper was born September 26, 1935, at Maitland, Missouri to Thomas Reid Hooper and Frances Ruth (Goodpasture) Hooper. He died Friday, March 2, 2012 at Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa. Charles grew up in the Maryville area, graduating from Maryville High School in 1953. He furthered his education obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri and his Master of Science at New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, New Mexico. He was united in marriage February 23, 1962 in North Kansas City, Missouri to Jovita "Jo" Ortiz. They were blessed with three sons, Thomas, Michael and Richard. Charles was a professor, chemist and scientist. He worked as a chemist for British Petroleum during his college years. Charles taught Chemistry, Science and Math at Iowa Western Community College, Clarinda, Iowa for several years; he then worked as a chemist for Nature's Plant Food, Inc, Red Oak, Iowa. His most recent job was with OSHA in Des Moines, Iowa as a safety officer for twenty three years. Charles was a member of the Hewlett Packard 65 Users Club and wrote over 100 programs for the HP65 calculator. Charles was very intelligent and had a keen understanding of political and economic conditions. His family and friends were appreciative of his wise council. He enjoyed reading scientific journals, the Wall Street Journal and the local newspapers. In his retirement, Charles enjoyed playing cards at the Lied Center. Charles and Jo enjoyed many trips to Branson and a special trip for the family in 2006 was to Puerto Rico to see Jo's family. He was a member of the Trinity Presbyterian Church. Preceding Charles in death were his father, Thomas Hooper and wife, Jovita Hooper. Survivors include his sons, Thomas E. Hooper of Clarinda, Iowa, Michael R. Hooper and wife Heather and their children, Reid and Hannah of Topeka, Kansas, Richard A. Hooper of Silverthorne, Colorado; mother, Ruth Hooper of Maryville, Missouri; sister, Shirley Hooper McKee of Beaver Creek, Ohio and many friends |
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Funeral services for Jac Crain, age 53, of Clarinda, Iowa, who died suddenly Sunday, February 19, 2012 as the result of a plane crash in rural Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, February 23, 2012 at the Hillside Missionary Church, Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., at Hillside Missionary Church, Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will be in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Midwest Opportunities. 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. Jac Alan Crain was born September 2, 1958, at Clarinda, Iowa, to James G. Crain and Marilyn (Fulk) Crain. Jac grew up in the Clarinda area and attended Clarinda schools graduating from Clarinda High School in 1977. During high school, Jac was an active Cardinal student and athlete. He continued his education graduating from the Iowa Western Community College Mechanical Technology program and from Buena Vista College with a Bachelor of Science degree. Jac was united in marriage November 29, 1980 at Clarinda, Iowa to Marcy James. Jac and Marcy adopted their son, Blake from Lima, Peru in 1989. Jac started his working career with Honeywell Corporation in Freeport, Illinois and with Rockford systems in Rockford, Illinois. He returned to Clarinda and worked with his father in the construction business and became owner and operator of the Crain Construction Company and Page Plumbing. Jac was active in the community and was a member of the Clarinda Economic Development Committee, the Clarinda Country Club and the United Methodist Church Building Committee. He was also a member of the Wind Riders Experimental aircraft Club Chapter 1355. Jac had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed life to the fullest. He enjoyed numerous activities including boating, bowling, flying, skydiving, scuba diving, NASCAR, sail boating, golfing, their lake house, traveling, designing his own home, yoga classes and he especially enjoyed being with friends and family. Preceding Jac in death were his father, James G. Crain; sister, Candee Crain and nephew, Cole Stanton. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Marcy Crain of Clarinda, Iowa; son, Blake Crain of Creston, Iowa; mother, Marilyn Crain of Clarinda, Iowa; brother, Jay Dee Crain and wife Denise of Orange, California; sisters, Cindee Crain of San Diego, California and Cheri Crain of Clarinda, Iowa; parents-in-law, Ray and Martha James of Clarinda, Iowa; sister-in-law, Suzi Stanton and husband Jerry of Clarinda, Iowa; nieces and nephews, Abby and Josey Stanton and Chelsee and Chad Crain; aunts; uncles; cousins and many friends |
| 024Funeral service for Kathryn Peterson of Villisca, Iowa, will take place Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca, Iowa. Visitation will be Tuesday evening, March 27th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the funeral home. Kathryn passed away on Sunday, March 25, 2012. Kathryn Joan Narigon Peterson was born on August 21, 1923, in Nodaway, Iowa; the daughter of Harold Rider and Olive Ameila (McCain) Narigon. She graduated from Nodaway High School in 1941where she was active in basketball and band. She entered into marriage in on April 11, 1942 in Maryville, Missouri to Roy Elmer Peterson. During the war years she lived in Creston, Iowa, with her parents where she worked in the ration office. After the war they farmed 160 acres northeast of Villisca. During these years Kathryn was a mother and homemaker who participated as a Room Mother, Cub Scout Leader and 4-H Leader to support her children’s activities. In 1969, Roy and Kathryn moved to Villisca where Roy continued his carpentry business. During this time she worked for Parker Insurance as a secretary for 12 years before becoming the Director of the Villisca Housing; a position she served for 12 years. In her spare time she enjoyed reading, cake decorating and painting crafts. She had a love of the NY Yankees and enjoyed watching baseball, feeding the wild birds and flying the United States Flag. She was a member of the Methodist Church and the V.F.W. Auxiliary and had a great love of Pekingese dogs and all cats. Kathryn passed away Sunday, March 25, 2012 at the Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband and brother Harold Keith Narigon. Surviving Kathryn are her children: Susan Marie Behn (Steve) of Gettysburg, PA, Edward Lee Peterson (Virginia) of Omaha, NE, Fred Eugene Peterson (Janet) of Essex, Iowa and James David Peterson (Michele) of Lake Zurich, IL; grandchildren: Scott Behn (Dixie) of Lake Stevens, WA, Stacy Watts (Adam) of Maryland, Charles R. Peterson (Marcie) of Omaha, NE, Kristi Jefferson (James) of Omaha, NE, Cori Feller (Mark) of Shenandoah, IA, Mike Brown (Lisa) of Corning, IA, TJ Peterson (Peggy) of Northboro, IA, Charles W. Peterson (Bev) of Oxnard, CA, Nick Peterson (Brooke) of Elk Grove, IL, Amanda Peterson of Stansburry, MO, Chad Brown (Andrea) of Olathe, KS, Adam Brown of Clarinda, IA, Scott Brown (Courtney) Clarinda, IA and Heather Matheny (Josh) of New Market, IA; eleven great grand children; two great-great grandchildren; sister-in-law Carol Eichelberger of Aurora, IL. Wolfe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. |
| 025Donna Jean O'Donnell was born November 10, 1933 at Ottumwa, Iowa to Noble and Doris (Patrick) Forbes. She graduated West Bend High School and attended Junior College at Fort Dodge and later graduated with a Licensed Practical Nurse degree from Iowa Western in Clarinda. Donna was united in marriage to Kenneth G. O’Donnell at West Bend, Iowa April 12, 1953. They have four children: Dennis, Kathryn, Daniel, and Debra. Donna worked at ALCO in Clarinda and following that she worked many years at Westridge Quality Care in Clarinda as an LPN. After years of giving to and serving others through her nursing Donna retired in 2005 for health reasons. While she and Kenny lived in Rolfe, Iowa Donna ran the Sunny Brook Cafe and worked at the Pocahontas Community Hospital as a nurse aide. Donna enjoyed her flower garden and flower baskets with roses as a favorite. She loved making ceramics and afgans. Donna and Kenny would travel and recently went to Ireland. She enjoyed those trips with the Prestige Club seeing Canada, Europe, Hawaii and the Mystery Trips. When gathering with her family card games were always a must. Keeping her company over the years were her teddy bears. They came in all sizes and shapes. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth of rural Clarinda; children Dennis O'Donnell of Bradgate, Iowa, Kathryn Kuhlman and husband Neil of Omaha, Nebraska, Daniel O'Donnell and wife Joan of Elkader, Iowa and Debra Scalise and friend Rod Smith of O'Neill, Nebraska; grandchildren Gary, Vanessa, Elizabeth, Christina, Amber, Jennifer, Ross, Trevor, Shea and Rachel; seven great grandchildren; brother Charles Forbes and wife Lenore of Nora Springs, Iowa; and many friends. After many years of failing health Donna passed away Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa at the age of 78. She was preceded in death by parents and daughter-in-law Beverly O’Donnell. Funeral services will be held 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel with Scott Davison officiating. Family visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. Wednesday in Clarinda. For friends and family near Rolfe there will be a visitation 1 – 1:30 p.m. Friday, March 30 at Powers Funeral Home in Rolfe with interment following at Clinton Garfield Cemetery, Rolfe, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to a fund established in Donna’s name. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel is providing arrangements. |
| 026Katheryn Duley, age 68, of Clarinda, Iowa, died Wednesday, March 21, 2012. Visitation with the family were held 5:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 27 at Hillside Missionary Church. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at the Hillside Missionary Church, with Pastor Brian Bontrager officiating. Memorials may be directed to the Duley 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. Katheryn Ann was born December 12, 1943, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Dale Messerly and Bernice (Minikis) Messerly. She was the oldest of three children and grew up on a farm in the Fort Dodge, IA area. After graduating high school, she went on to become a registered nurse. She worked as a nurse for over 40 years in various capacities. She was married to Walter Slininger on May 1, 1964. They had three sons, Greg, Jeff, and Jason. Katheryn and Walter were married for 41 years until Walter passed in 2005. It was a year later that Katheryn met Robert. They were married on December 22, 2006. Katheryn had a giving, joyful, servant's heart. This was made evident many times throughout the years of her life in many different ways. She was active in her family, her community, and her church. She particularly loved children and was always very involved in Sunday School or youth groups. She loved sharing Jesus with kids! She also very much enjoyed photography. She was the official family memory keeper, and her photo books were something to behold. Katheryn was preceded in death by her first husband Walter Slininger, mother Bernice Messerly, and sister Kay Shamblin. Left to cherish her memory are her husband Robert Duley, children Greg and Carmon Slininger of Harcourt, IA, Jeff Slininger of Bozeman, MT, and Jason and Angela Slininger of Omaha, NE, eight grandchildren, father Dale, mother Grace, brother Douglas, nieces, nephews and many friends. Katheryn will be greatly missed by her family and friends but her memory will live on in their hearts. May God grant comfort and peace to all who mourn her passing. |
| 027Quentin Beemer, 92, of Creston died Sunday, March 18, 2011, at Crest Haven Care Centre, Creston, Iowa. Funeral services were held 10:30 A.M., Thursday, March 22, 2012, at Pearson Family Funeral Service, 809 W. Montgomery St., Creston. Jeff Thayer, Tim Vaughan, and Mindy Yule officiated. Interment was at Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Open visitation was from 9:00 A.M. until the time of services on Thursday morning. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in Quentin’s name to be decided at at later date. On-line condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com. Quentin Beemer, the son of Judson Beemer and Ferne Nellie (Coy) Beemer, was born October 11, 1919 in Gravity, Iowa. Quentin entered into eternal rest on March 18, 2012, at the Crest Haven Care Centre, Creston, Iowa at the age of ninety-two years, five months, and seven days. Quentin grew up in the Gravity area attending school, and graduated with the Class of 1938 from the Gravity High School. Quentin was united in marriage to Lorene Wilson on October 15, 1939, in Maryville, Missouri. To this loving union two sons and one daughter were born, Gary, Linda and Jerry. Quentin heard the Gospel of God's truth to mankind in 1956, this acceptance of truth as it is in Jesus, started a relationship with God that became the most important thing in his life. Left to cherish his memory are his three children: Gary Beemer and wife Judy of Creston; Linda Von Heeder and husband John of Texline, Texas; Jerry Beemer and wife Lydia of Queencreek, Arizona; a brother-in-law, Richard Wilson and wife Pauline of Bedford; and a sister-in-law, Rosie Pfander and husband Donald of Corning; eleven grandchildren; twenty-seven great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; along with several nieces, nephews and many friends. Preceding Quentin in death are his wife, Lorene, and his parents, Judson and Ferne Beemer |
| 028Mabel Pauline Smith, daughter of Henry & Myrtle (Bean) Kettle, was born October 30, 1914 at Edelstein, Illinois. As a young girl, the family moved to the Redding-Delphos, Iowa, eventually settling in the Blockton area. Mabel graduated from Blockton High School. She received her teacher's certificate and taught school for a few years. Mabel married Clayton L. Parman and together they owned & operated restaurants in Topeka, Kansas and Springfield, Missouri. Mabel operated Sky Ranch Drive-In in Springfield for many years. Mabel later married Joe Smith. She retired and returned to Blockton, Iowa in 1971 to care for her aging mother. Mabel would return to Springfield to live with her son for three years before moving into the Clearview Home in Clearfield, Iowa where she has lived the last two years. Mabel passed away at Clearview Home on March 18, 2012. She was preceded in death by her parents; two grandchildren Clayton Wayne McPherson and Janet McPherson; siblings Byron & Dale Kettle, Marjorie Wilhite and Mildred Fuller. Survivors include her children Clayton D. (Thelma) Parman of Springfield, MO and Claudine (Darrell) McPherson of Quality, KY; grandchildren Kathi Johnson and Wayne McPherson; sister Jean Haidsiak of Clearfield; other relatives and friends. Mabel was cremated and a graveside service is planned for the afternoon of Saturday, March 31 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton, Iowa. Arrangements were entrusted to Watson-Armstrong Funeral Home in Clearfiled, Iowa |
| 029Howard Edward Weller was born March 29, 1929 in Conway, Iowa, the son of William and Maude (Knott) Weller. He passed away on Friday evening, March 16, 2012 at Jennie Edmondson Hospital in Council Bluffs at the age of 82 years, 11 months, and 16 days. Howard grew up in Taylor County and graduated from Sharpsburg High School in 1948. He attended business school in Omaha, Nebraska. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War from 1950 – 1954. On January 4, 1953, Howard was united in marriage to Lavonne French at the First Baptist Church in Bedford. This union was blessed with three children, Bill, Bonnie and Nancy. Howard worked for the City of Shenandoah in the Sanitation Department and after retiring he delivered medicine for Travis Pharmacy and most recently he was delivering medicine for Hy-Vee Pharmacy. Howard worked for the Spurrier Oil Company out of Clearfield running tank wagon service for many years and owned the Citi Services Gas Station in Sharpsburg. He also ran the Mobil Gas Station in Bedford as well as worked for the City of Bedford in the Sanitation Department before he and Lavonne moved to Shenandoah in 1976. Howard was a 50 plus year member of the Masonic Lodge and was a lifetime member of the American Legion. He was an active member of the First United Presbyterian Church in Shenandoah and served on the board of Deacons. Howard volunteered as the city Santa Claus in Sharpsburg and Bedford when he and Lavonne lived in these communities. He loved sports and enjoyed watching and supporting the Shenandoah Mustangs and Fillies. He enjoyed having coffee with the Hy-Vee group each morning above all, he loved ice cream. Howard enjoyed country western and blue grass music. He and Lavonne were also active square dancers for many years – Howard loved to dance. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Lavonne; his so, Bill Weller, daughter-in-law Connie Weller; sister, Mary Ellen Lewellen; brothers-in-law, JB, Bill and Paul French, and Dale Lewellen; sisters-in-law, Nadine and Fern French. Survivors include his daugthers, Bonnie Allely and her husband Denny of Shenandoah, Iowa, Nancy Weller of Shenandoah, Iowa; four grandchildren, Billy Weller and his wife LaTisha of Dothan, Alabama, Matthew Weller of Enterprise, Alabama, Alisha Weller of Sioux City, Iowa, Brett Allely ofShenandoah, Iowa; two great grandchildren, Judson and Hampton Weller; a brother, Dean Weller and his wife Betty of Bedford, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Joanne Perdew and Elnora French of Bedford, Iowa; three brothers-in-law, Ed French and his wife Bethel of Bedford, Iowa, Roy Frenchand his wife Joyce of Hopkins, Missouri, Robert Perdew of Gravity, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at Kirsch Fuenral Chapel in Shenandoah with Rev. Rick Sleyster officiating. Burial was in the Washington Cemetery at Gravity, Iowa with military honors accorded by the Shenandoah American Legion Post #88. Visitation with the family present was held on Tuesday evening, March 20 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a Masonic Service held at 6:30 p.m. A memorial fund was established in Howard’s name. To leave online remembrances or condolences, go to www.kirschfuneral.com. The Kirsch Funeral Chapel of Shenandoah was in charge of arrangements |
| 030George Ellis Hamm was born July 22, 1913 in Shambaugh, Iowa, to Douglas and Ada Hamm. His childhood days were growing up near Shambaugh and Clarinda. He married Lula Rozella Spangler on August 17, 1933 in Shenandoah on KFNF Radio. They lived in Braddyville where he worked on a farm and later moved to College Springs and learned his carpentry trade in Clarinda. In 1961, they moved to Clarinda and he worked at Richardson Lumber until retiring in 1978. He spent his retirement living in Iowa City until moving to Davenport in 2006 living with his son Merlin. He was a member of the Trinity United Presbyterian Church in Clarinda and the Bethany Baptist Church in Iowa City. George, 98, of the Davenport Good Samaritan Center, died at the center on Sunday, March 11 after a long fight with cancer. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife; daughter and her husband Judy and Bud Glasgow; great grandson Ron Bowers; daughter in law Joyce Hamm; brothers and sister Eldon, Kenneth and Wanda Hamm. Survivors include his two sons: Carl of Fairmont, NE and Merlin and wife Karen of Davenport; daughter Nancy Martin and husband Pete of Iowa City; granddaughter Candy Norris and husband Brett of Iowa City; 14 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; 13 great-great grandchildren; 2 great-great-great grandchildren; 4 step grandchildren; brother Robert Hamm of Clarinda and sister Marthelia Freeman of Shenandoah. His life has touched many with his kindness and love. He has left his memoirs for his family to read and carry on his strong sense of family which he claimed his greatest reward in this life. Visitation will be from 10 to 12 on Saturday, March 17, at the Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa with the service following immediately at 12:15. Rev. Gail Mitchell of Iowa City will be officiating. Burial will be in the College Springs Maple Hill Cemetery |
| 031Leonard Joe Maxwell, 65 years old, of Hartford, SD, passed away Sunday, March 11, 2012, at his home with his loving family at his side. Memorial services were held Saturday, March 17, at 2:00 pm, Miller Hartford Chapel, Hartford, SD. Visitation begin at 12:00 pm, Saturday, also at Miller Hartford Chapel. Leonard "Joe" Maxwell was born Aug 6, 1946 in Bloomington, IL to Albert and Florence (Ryan) Maxwell. At an early age, Joe moved with his family to Clarinda, IA, where he received his education from Clarinda Public School system. In 1964, Joe enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, and served his country during the Vietnam Warr. Joe was united in marriage to Gloria Ann Williams in Clarinda, IA on January 16, 1966. To this marriage, the couple was blessed with two children, Marcus Matthew and Charnette Ann. Joe was employed at Hy-Vee as a Meat Cutter for over 37 years, and retired in 2004, due to ill health. Joe loved his family and getting to spend time with his children and grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoyed working in his gardens, fishing , hunting, and sitting on his porch. Joe was known for his strong work ethic and family values. He treasured his wife, who cared for him at home through his battle with cancer. Joe cherished his relationship with his children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends. He truly enjoyed being outdoors working on his acreage. Joe will be remembered for his sense of humor, and his love of laughter. He was a very loving and caring Dad, a "fun" and comforting Grandpa, and a devoted and adoring husband. Those left to cherish Joe's memory include; his wife of 46 years, Gloria; daughter, Charnette (Chris) Mitchell; son, Marc; Joe's beloved grandchildren, Katherine Ashley Maxwell, Tanner Joseph Maxwell, Jake William Maxwell, and their mother, Lynn Marie Schartz, Emilee Ann Mitchell, Hannah Mae Mitchell, and Maggie Jo Mitchell; sisters, Dorothy Maxwell, and Mary (Chris) Davison, of Clarinda, IA; brothers, Howard Maxwell, John Maxwell, Ed Maxwell, all of Clarinda, IA, and Tom (Janice) Maxwell of New Market, IA; Joe's mother-in-law, Lota C. Beery of Clarinda; sister-in-laws, Jeannie (Lyle) Ellison of Clarinda, Kathy (John) Iddings of Lake-In-The-Hills, IL; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nephews and great-nieces. Joe was preceded in death by: his parents; brother, Randy Maxwell; infant brother, Eddie J. Maxwell; and sister-in-law, Sue Maxwell. In lieu of flowers, the family requests all memorials be directed to Dougherty Hospice House, 4509 Prince of Peace Trail, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 |
| 032Richard D. “Slim” Byerley, age 90, of 7905 Mt. Monroe Road, Cuba, and formely of Somerset, New Jersey, passed away Sunday, March 11, 2012, in Cuba Memorial Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit after a brief illness. Born on November 7, 921, in Essex, Iowa, he was a son of Fey Q. and Mary Ann Simons Byerley. On June 3, 1944, atSt. Peters of the Apostle Church, in New Brunswick, New Jersey he married the former Rosalind M. Shulas who predeceased him on November 5, 2003. Mr. Byerley served in the United States Army Air Force from 1942 until 1946. After his military servicehe returend to the Somerset New Jersey area and owned and operated Slims Somerset Disposal Service in Somerset, New Jersey for over 50 years, a business which still remains family, owned and operated today. Mr. Byerley was very active in Fire Departments in New Jersey as well as throughout Southwest Iowa. He was a life member of the East Franklin Volunteer Fire Department, in Somerset, New Jersey for over 45 years and was also a lifemember of the Nodaway Volunteer Fire Department, in Nodaway, Iowa, since 1983. He had served as master of ceremonies numerous times for Nodaway Volunteer Fire Department Celebrations and was instrumental in acquiring fire trucks and equipment necessary for the fire department to operate. Mr. Byerley and his wife, Rosalind, also had donated a fire truck to the Nodaway Fire Department. He enjoyed fishing, and traveling with his wife in their motor home and was able to visit the lower 48 states twice. Surviving are two sons, Richard J. (Nancy) Byerley of Cuba, and David F. (Elizabeth) Byerley of Flemington, NJ; one daughter, Valerie R. Mont of Pennington, NJ; seven grandchildre; fourteen great grandchildren; a half brother, James Byerley of Tennessee; a half sister, Jeanine Siler of Bremerton, Washington; and a dear sister-in-law, Elaine Byerley of Glendora, California. A Mass of Christian burial was held on Tuesday, March 20, 2012, in St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church |
| 033Connie Stewart, 77, of Cascade, Iowa, formerly of Grinnell, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, March 7, 2012, at Manor Care, Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by her family. Services were held Monday, March 5, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Grinnell Christian Church. Arrangements entrusted to Hoffmann-Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation service, Dubuque. Connie was born October 23, 1934 in Clarinda, Iowa, the daughter of Ural K. and Kathryn (Howard) Huddle. Connie worked for General Telephone, Grinnell College, Hy-Vee and retired from all three. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, canning, cooking, and especially shopping. Connie was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan. What she enjoyed most were her children and grandchildren. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Shari (Rick) Kizer of Dubuque, Iowa, and Rhonda Kizer of Grinnell, Iowa; her grandchildren, Lonnie Stewart of Altoona, Iowa, Matthew Kizer of Grinnell, and Marcus Kizer of Newton, Iowa; two great-grandsons, Corbin of Grinnell, and Kaeden of Williamsburg, Iowa; her niece and nephew, Connie and Kelly Campbell, both of Colorado; her great-niece and great-nephew, Lindsey and Kyle, both of Colorado; and her brother-in-law, Bernie Heese of Colorado. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Judi Heese. A Connie Stewart Memorial Fund has been established. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jim, Melissa, Rev. Penny, and Army; Dr. Mark Runde; the staff at Manor Care; and Riverbend Retirement Community, Cascade. Online condolences may be left at www.hoffmannschneiderfuneralhomes.com |
| 034Funeral services for Herby DeBolt, age 81, of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at his residence rural Clarinda, Iowa, were held 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 12, 2012 at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Reverend Dan Wiebesiek officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5:00-7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 11 at the funeral home. Burial was in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa with military rites by American Legion Sergy Post 98 with taps by Bailey DeBolt. Memorials may be directed to Clarinda Fire and Rescue, New Market Fire and Rescue or the New Market Methodist Church. 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. Herby Walter DeBolt was born March 5, 1931, near Macedonia, Iowa, to Lester L. DeBolt and Mathilda (Kruse) DeBolt. He was the youngest of eleven brothers and sisters. Herby grew up attending rural schools and Corning High School. He was united in marriage to Lorraine Eighmy of Gravity, Iowa on March 24, 1953 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. They were blessed with three sons, Curtis, Loren, and Alan. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict as a Chief Switchboard Operator from November 1952 until honorably discharged in September 1954. Herb was a car and tractor mechanic most of his life. He worked for tractor implement dealerships in Clarinda and also leased and operated a service station in New Market for almost 15 years in a partnership with his wife and children. He also worked in construction as a caterpillar operator and during his tenure, Herb was a plumber. After retirement, Herb worked for a local fertilizer plant in Clarinda and also drove a food truck for the State of Iowa delivering food to the prison. As a community leader, Herb was a member of the Methodist Church in New Market since 1964. He was on the City Council in New Market, a Legion member, and a leader and supporter of the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of America and was a member of New Market's Civic Club. He also promoted and helped with several town events. In 1983, Herb and Lorraine moved from New Market to their current residence. Herb always wanted a little acreage where he could raise hogs and cattle. He loved fresh food from the garden and also enjoyed planting garden and giving to family, friends, and neighbors. He took a lot of pride in his place and it showed as every board was painted and the grass always mowed. The compliments have been ongoing. Herb was a family man and loved his wife, kids, and grand kids. He's watched a ton of ball games watching his kids play, his grand kids play and also Alan's baseball teams he coached over the years. He loved the outdoors and spent many hours hunting and fishing with his wife, kids and grandchildren. He loved music….from listening to live and recorded music and occasionally playing the harmonica in family Sunday gatherings. Herb was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Roy (Juanita), Marion (Edith), Dale (Renee), Merle, Earl; sisters, Vera Viner (Ralph), Viola McVay (Bea); brothers-in-law, Robert Hicks, Ivan Eighmy (Dorothy); sisters-in-law, Mildred Goslin (Dick), Mary Eighmy. Herb is survived by his wife, Lorraine and sons, Curtis DeBolt and wife Traci of Clarinda, Iowa, Loren L. DeBolt of Shenandoah, Iowa and Alan DeBolt and wife Belinda of Shenandoah, Iowa; four grandchildren, Erin and Austin DeBolt of Clarinda and Bailey and Blair DeBolt of Shenandoah; sister, Vivian Hicks of Stanton, Iowa; brothers, Lester DeBolt (Evelyn) of Red Oak, Iowa, Robert DeBolt (Marjorie) of Charles City, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Elmerna DeBolt of Carson, Washington, Marie Babcock of New Market, Iowa; brother-in-law, Earl Eighmy of Clarksville, Tennessee; many nieces, nephews and friends. Herb will be greatly missed by his family and friends but his memory will live on in their hearts. May God grant comfort and peace to all who mourn his passing. |
| 035Dorothy Elaine Richardson was born on Feb. 7, 1930 in rural Essex, Iowa, the daughter Elmer Alexander Johnson and Edna Olive (Anderson) Johnson. She passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on Tuesday evening, March 6 at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha at the age of 82 years and 28 days. Dorothy grew up in rural Essex where she attended country school. She attended high school in Shenandoah, Iowa and graduated as Valedictorian with the Class of 1948. During her high school years, she worked at Mae Farmers. After high school, she worked at the Iowa Power and Light Company. On February 27, 1949 she was united in marriage to Robert Eugene Richardson at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Shenandoah. Dorothy and Bob were blessed to have four sons, Robert Michael, Charles Patrick, John Steven, and James David. In January 1953, Dorothy and Bob, along with Dorothy's parents, Elmer and Edna Johnson, opened J & R Furniture and Carpet in Shenandoah. They enjoyed serving the people of Southwest Iowa, Northwest Missouri, and Southeast Nebraska for almost 60 years. Dorothy owned and operated their furniture store until her passing. Dorothy was devoted to her faith, to her family, and to her community. Her quiet wisdom and mentoring was a source of strength for all. Her interests revolved around her family and their activities such as motorsports and farming. Her greatest joys are her grandchildren and her great grandchild. She was an active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church where she served on Altar Guild, various committees, and as a Sunday morning greeter. Dorothy was a wonderful cook and delighted family and friends with her culinary expertise. In recent years, she enjoyed her sunroom addition and newly remodeled kitchen where she created many dishes including favorites of pastries, pies, pizza, prime rib, cookies, and Swedish pancakes. She was also proud of her Swedish Lutheran heritage. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Edna Johnson, two sisters, Marvis Cool and Rogene Johnson, and her husband, Robert Eugene Richardson. Survivors include her children, Mike Richardson and wife Jolene of Franklin, Tennessee, Charlie Richardson of Shenandoah, Steve Richardson of Shenandoah and Lori Balke of Beatrice, Nebraska, Jim Richardson and wife Niki of Shenandoah; four grandchildren, Charles Richardson and wife Heather of Bellevue, Nebraska, Patrick Richardson of Shenandoah, Nicki and Michele Richardson of New York City, NY, and one great grandson, Lucas Richardson of Bellevue, Nebraska; along with many other relatives and friends. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 10 2012 at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church with Rev. Steve Hetzel officiating. Attending to the memorial register were Marcella Heaton and Mary Alice Johnson. Caring for flowers were Kathy Athen, Donna Bopp, Linda Whitehill and Loraine Manchester. Ushers included Howard Johnson, Newt Heaton, Russ Burroughs and Merrill Whitehill. Music was provided by Mary Eickoff, Lacey Reed and Carla Kage who sang "There's Just Something About That Name" and "The Lord's Prayer". The congregation joined in singing "Because He Lives" and "He Touched Me", Judy Lundgren served as organist. Casket Bearers included Steve Richardson, Jim Richardson, Mike Richardson, Charlie Richardson, Charles Richardson and Patrick Richardson. Honorary Casket Bearers included Pat Athen, Eldon Manchester, Brian Martin, Mike Flynn, Richard Stewart, John Stewart, Richard Rope and Jimmy Bopp. Burial followed in the Rose Hill Cemetery. Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangement |