Southwest Iowa & Northwest Missour obituaries transcribed by Pat O'Dell - genpat@netins.net

001Carol Joyce Keever, 67, Maryville, Missouri, died Monday, February 4, 2013, at her home, Maryville, Missouri.

Carol was born September 14, 1945, in Maryville to Charles Gleason and Lyna Mae (Helmer) Womack who preceded her in death.

A graduate Northeast Nodaway High School and Gard Business College, St. Joseph, Missiouri, Carol worked at Pit Stop, The Senior Center and was currently employed at the Holiday Inn Express.

She married Shelby Douglas Keever, Jr. on December 26, 1970, Winston Missouri.

Carol was a charter member of the Eagles Lodge Auxiliary, Maryville.

Preceding in death were her parents and father-in-law Shelby Keever.

Survivors include her husband Shelby Douglas Keever, Jr. of their home in Maryville, mother-in-law Emilee Keever, Maryville, brother-in-law Kirby (Brenda) Keever, nephew T.J. (Vanessa) Keever, both of Burlington Jct., Missouri, niece Ashley (Aaron) Brown, Maryville, great niece Olivia Keever, and many other friends and loved ones.

Visitation will be held 5-7:00 PM, Tuesday, February 5, 2013, at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri.

The graveside service and burial will be held 2:00 PM at the Miriam Cemetery, Wednesday, February 6, 2013

 

002Graveside services for Ardith Sickels, age 91, of Taylor County, who died Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at the Clearview Home in Clearfield will be held Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 10:45 AM at the Mamrelund Lutheran Church Cemetery in Stanton. Visitation will be at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford Saturday morning from 9 AM until 10 AM. Memorials may be directed to the family. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Ardith Geraldine (Matheny) Sickels was born December 31, 1921, in Platteville, Iowa. She was the second of five children born to Joseph Earl Matheny and Hazel Macie (Tamerius) Matheny. Ardith attended Taylor County Rural Schools and Bedford High School.

Ardith married Raymond Wisdom and lived near Blockton, Iowa. As a farm wife, she raised chickens and helped with chores. The couple later divorced. She ran a restaurant in Blockton. While living in Clarinda, Iowa, Ardith worked as a telephone operator at the State Hospital. At this time, she also provided a home for and cared for her mother Hazel. Ardith met and married Gerald Anderson on September 14, 1964. They lived in Gerald's family home in Stanton, Iowa. They enjoyed traveling most weekends to see their family and friends. Ardith loved being a wife and homemaker and she and Gerald remodeled and created a lovely home. After Gerald's death, Ardith moved to Clearfield, Iowa to be near her family. In the following years, she met and married Glade Sickels on August 31, 1991. Though they were married a short time before Glade's death, they enjoyed the years traveling and spending time with family and friends. She enjoyed attending church with Glade and became a member of the Hamilton Memorial Missionary Church in Bedford, Iowa. The Clearview Home Nursing Staff has graciously given Ardith the care she has needed for the last several years.

Though Ardith did not have children of her own, she was a 'second mom' to her many nieces and nephews. "Auntie" or "Aunt" always liked having summer visitors. Nieces and nephews spent many weeks being pampered by Aunt Ardith. She loved feeding everyone all her great recipes and keeping everyone 'spic & span'! That sparkle in her eyes told everyone she loved to tease and have fun. Even in later years, she looked forward to going places with her sister, brothers, nieces and nephews.

Left to cherish Ardith's memory is a brother, Wilbur "Wiggs" Matheny of Hawthorne, Nevada; two sisters-in-law, Eileen Matheny of Clearfield and Marilyn Beck Matheny of Lenox; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Ardith in death are her parents, Joseph and Hazel Matheny; husbands Gerald Anderson and Glade Sickels; a sister, Mary Lou Walkup and her husband Robert Walkup; two brothers, Earl Matheny and Joe Matheny

 

003

Graveside services for Kenneth Fleharty, age 66, died Monday, March 4, 2013, at the Lenox Care Center, will be held Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 11:00 AM at the Oakland Cemetery in Quincy. There is no visitation prior to services. Memorials may be directed to the family. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Kenneth Gene Fleharty, the son of Harold and Marie (Buris) Fleharty, was born on April 7, 1946, on a small farm near the community of Corning. Kenny received his elementary education in the Mt.Etna School District and went on to high school in Corning. He enjoyed participating in sports, especially basketball and baseball.

Kenny stayed on the family farm after high school and helped his father and neighbors with fieldwork. Later he was employed at Innovative Industries in Creston, building toys and equipment. In 1989, he moved to Lenox, Iowa.

Kenny took pleasure in collecting antique coins and car keys. He had a strong sweet tooth for oatmeal cookies and was a lover of music and laughter. He found enjoyment playing cards and board games. He was a people person, both kind and humorous.

Kenny is survived by his sister JoAnn Phillips of Corning; Brother Dean (Rosemary) Fleharty of Prairie Home, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.

Kenny is preceded in death by his mother and father, and brother-in-law, Marvin Phillips



004

Funeral services for Gwen Wetmore, age 94, of Lincoln, Nebraska, formerly of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Thursday, February 28, 2013 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Lincoln, Nebraska, will be held 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 4, 2013 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Clarinda, Iowa with Rev. Robert Keefer officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 1-2 p.m., Monday at the church prior to the service. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to Fairview Cemetery, Bedford or to Westminster Presbyterian Church, Clarinda. 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.

Gwendolyn V. Wetmore, 94, of Lincoln, Nebraska, died after a great day on Thursday, February 28, 2013. She was the daughter of Joseph Walter and Mabel (Cooper) Greenway. She was born January 15, 1919 in rural Taylor County, Iowa. Gwen grew up in the Bedford area and graduated from Bedford High School. She worked for over 25 years as the financial secretary for the First United Methodist Church in Fort Dodge, Iowa and was a 50 year member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Vern L. Trumbo, husband of 7 years, Harland Prather and husband of 10 years, Frank "Bud" Wetmore, her parents and brother, Walter "Chub" Greenway.

Gwen enjoyed traveling, shopping, golf, embroidery, reading and old Western movies on television. She loved life, her family and was delighted when surrounded by her great grandchildren. She always addressed life in a positive, gracious manner with poise and dignity.

Gwen is survived by her daughter, Joyce (Judson) Douglas of Lincoln, Nebraska and her son David (Vicki) Trumbo of Lafayette, Colorado. Grandchildren Justin (April) Douglas of Lincoln, Nebraska, Megan (Greg) McDonald of Broomfield, Colorado and Andrew Trumbo of Richmond, Texas. Great Grandchildren include Alexandra and Jacquelyn Douglas, Tate, Hayden and Clare McDonald and Alexander, Presley and Barrett Trumbo. Step sons, Frank Wetmore of Bellevue, Idaho, Daniel (Cindy) Wetmore of Mission, Kansas and Victor (Sue) Wetmore of Tucson, Arizona with their children and grandchildren




005elebration of Life Services for Wayne Marley, age 102, of Bedford, who died Tuesday, February 26, 2013 in Bedford, Iowa will be held Saturday, March 2, 2013 at 11:00 AM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation will be held the day of the service, Saturday, March 2, 2013 from 9 AM until service time. The family will greet friends 10 AM until service time. Interment will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memories can be shared with the family at

006Memorial services for Robert Dawson, age 54, of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Thursday, February 21 2013 at his residence, Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will be in the Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Southwest Iowa Humane Society. 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.

Robert Arthur Dawson was born June 1, 1958, to Robert Eugene Dawson and Rojean Louise (Kneedler) Dawson in Des Moines, Iowa. He grew up in the Des Moines area and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1976. He worked with his Dad making tile and pipe in Des Moines. Bob had a long battle with Chron's disease and it kept him from working for many years. He came to Southwest Iowa moving to Mt. Ayr for a short time in the 1990's, later moving to Clarinda where he resided at the time of his death.

Bob enjoyed putting model cars and motorcycles together as well as full sized cars. He liked to keep his cars clean and in top condition. Bob loved animals especially cats. He was a people person and enjoyed visiting with friends and family.

Preceding Bob in death were his parents.

Survivors include his sisters, Judy Dixon and husband David of Norwalk, Iowa, Robin Campbell of Clearfield, Iowa and Roxanne Werner and husband Kenny of Clearfield, Iowa; special friends Connie Grebert and Ed Stoll of Clarinda, Iowa; many nieces; nephews; other relative and friends

 

007Celebration of Life Services for Charlie Brown, age 88, of Lenox, who died Monday, February 11, 2013 in Bethany, Missouri will be held Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at 11:00 AM at the Lenox Christian Church. Open visitation with no family present will be Tuesday at the Ritchie Funeral Home from 4-6 PM. The family will greet friends Wednesday morning at the church from 9:00 AM until service time. Interment will be held at the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be given in his name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Charles Edwin Brown was born July 17, 1924, in Lenox, Iowa. He was one of six children born to Byron Brown and Eva (Shelman) Brown. Charlie grew up in the Lenox area attending school. He met his future wife, Lela Pearl Brown, when he went to her father's farm to help butcher a hog. Two and a half years later, on July 27, 1946, the couple was united in marriage in Atlantic, Iowa. To this loving union, three children were born, Donald, Michael and Amber.

Charlie worked at the Lenox Locker in the 1940's and then as an Automotive and Transmission Specialist for the Ford Garage in Lenox until 1978, when he opened his own repair shop "Brown's Fix-It Shop" at their home on Walnut Street in Lenox. Charlie repaired all kinds of machinery including mowers and vehicles. Charlie and Pearl lived at the same residence in Lenox for 65 years.

Left to cherish his memory are his two sons, Donald Brown and wife Darla of Ridgeway, Missouri; Michael Brown and wife Shirley of Morrison, Colorado; one daughter, Amber Abernathy and husband Randy of New Hampton, Missouri; a sister, Annabell Jones of Mount Ayr, Iowa; six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding Charles in death are his parents, Byron and Eva Brown; his loving wife Pearl on July 21, 2011; one brother, Virgil Brown; three sisters, Veda Miller, Marcella Briner and Laraine who died giving birth to her child; and one granddaughter, Krystal Brown

 

008Donald Lloyd Drake passed away on March 4, 2013 at the VA Central Iowa Health Care Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, at the age of 84. He was born on December 4, 1928 in Burchard, Nebraska.

Don moved to Shenandoah when he was 15, graduating with the class of 1947. He was united in marriage to Marian Eloise Rohrig on December 10, 1950. To this union three children were born, Steven Lloyd Drake, Eloise Joann Drake and Debra Ann Drake. He served in the Korean War in the U.S. Army with distinction earning the Korean service medal with three bronze service stars and United Nations service medal. Aside from the time Don spent in the army he spent most of this life working for either the beef packing industry or the railroad. His favorite activities included loving and caring for his dogs, splitting and cutting wood, snowmobiling and watching football. Don also enjoyed attending his father's family reunions.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph Graydon Drake and Ruth Hillis (Hawk) Drake, brothers Leland Ralph Drake and wife Dorothy and Roger Neil Drake. Those left to cherish his memory are his son: Steven L. Drake and wife Linda Kay of Livingston, Montana and their three children Steven Lloyd Drake, Jr., Sean David Drake, and Traci Ann Tyler, daughters: Eloise Joann Drake of Bellevue, Nebraska and Debra Ann Brown and husband Greg of Dow City, Iowa and their three children Johanna, Elsa, and Ian, ex-wives Marian Eloise Drake and Shirley Bertram Drake. Also surviving are his younger brothers D. Hugh Drake and wife Rosemary of West Des Moines, Iowa and David Joe Drake and wife Toni Ann of rural Essex, Iowa, aunt Hazel Hawk McBride of Paradise, California. His special friends include Alice Erftmier of the Doberman Rescue and Anne Moore his long time neighbor

 

009

Paul Dean Bangston was born on November 17, 1957 in Red Oak, Iowa, the son of Howard and Ardis (Harding) Bangston. Paul entered into the arms of his Lord, on Monday morning, March 4, 2013 at his home in Essex.

Paul's early life was spent on the family farm south of Camp Aldersgate outside of Villisca. He graduated from Villisca High School with the Class of 1976. He later continued his education at Iowa State University where he obtained his Bachelors of Science Degree in Animal Science. On August 8, 1981 he was united in marriage to Marty Kernen in Clarinda, Iowa. The couple made their first home in St. Edward, Nebraska, before moving to an acreage outside of Essex.

Paul work as a Livestock Production Specialist for a Co-op in St. Edwards and the surrounding communities. Upon moving to Essex, he worked for Crestland Co-op in Shenandoah, the Villisca Elevator and most recently the Clarinda Co-op where he worked until he was forced into retirement due to his ALS. The family also raised cows and calves on their farm for the past 30 years.

Paul was an active husband and father. He enjoyed being involved with the Page County Fair, 4-H, the Page County Extension Council, Essex Child Care Board, Beta Theta Pi fraternity at ISU and was a Tarkio Township Trustee. He also enjoyed working on the "chain gang" during Essex football games and was a faithful statistician during basketball and softball seasons in Essex. His greatest joy came from moments shared with his family. He enjoyed watching his children and their friends in sports and activities, working with his children and wife on the farm with their cows, watching westerns and classic tv shows, laughing and spending quality time with friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved dogs Jock, Rocky, Swede, Opie, Zoey, Bo and Biddy. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Marty of Essex; children Corrie McHale and husband Tom of Minneapolis, MN, Kaley Bangston and friend Wyatt Setterburg of Iowa City and Adel, IA, Kyle Bangston and friend Emma Berglund and Quentin Bangston all of Ames, IA; grandson Bennett McHale of Minneapolis, MN; mother and father in-law Junior and Margaret Kernen of Villisca, IA; brothers and sisters in-law Joe and Lisa Kernen of Villisca and Dan and Maria Kernen of Denver, CO; parents Howard and Ardis Bangston of Villisca; brother Bill Bangston and wife Julie of Wyanett, IL; sister Pam Greenwalt and Terry Mullen of Creston, IA and Brenda Dunn and husband Stan of Nodaway, IA; dear friend and caregiver Ashley Lindburg; many nieces, nephews, caregivers and loving friends

Memorials may be directed to Page County Fair, Heartland Home Health & Hospice, Iowa ALS, Essex Activities, Shenandoah Speech Dept. or The Shenandoah Cross Country Team.

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

010Charles Lee Christensen was born on August 24, 1947 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of Lavern and Elizabeth (Woods) Christensen. Charles entered into eternal peace on Sunday, March 3, 2013 at the Clarinda Regional Medical Center.

Charles attended school in Imogene through the 8th grade. He lived in many different places during his lifetime including Guthrie Center, Imogene, Carson, California and most recently in College Springs. He worked for 3 C's Auto Wrecking from 1965 until 1993, as an auto dismantler and in sales. He later became self-employed until his retirement in 2012. He enjoyed CB Radios and computers.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Those left to honor his memory include his brothers Eugene Christensen and wife Gwen of Olean, MO, Bill Christensen and wife Jan of Malvern, AR; special friend Sonny; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

May God grant strength and comfort to all those who mourn his loss

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

011Dean Miller Wolfe was born on June 11, 1932 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of Miller and Velma (Sweeten) Wolfe. Dean entered into eternal peace on Friday, March 1, 2013 at the Garden View Care Center in Shenandoah.

Dean lived his entire life in the Shenandoah community. During his working years he was employed at United Hagie, Dekalb Corn and the Page County Courthouse, where he retired from in 1994. He was a member of the Congregational Church, the Eagles Club and the 22 Club in Riverton.

Some of Dean's passions included playing golf, watching golf tournaments of television, woodworking, taking fishing trips to Canada, working in the yard, gardening and traveling in his younger days. Dean was also an avid gun enthusiast.

He was preceded in death by his parents Miller and Velma Wolfe; aunts and uncles George and Helen Wolfe and Marland and Ruby Peterson; and cousins Clair Peterson and Gene and Margaret Peterson. Those left to cherish his memory include his cousins John and Linda Wolfe of Shenandoah, Jim Wolfe of Omaha, NE, Joe Wolfe of Shenandoah and Beverly Peterson of Des Moines, other relatives and a host of friends

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

012Walter Farwell, 84, of Tipton and formerly of Sidney, passed on early Sunday morning, February 24, at the Prairie Hills Assisted Living Center in Tipton, Iowa following an extended illness. Graveside memorial services, following cremation, with military honors, will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 10:30 a.m. at the Sidney Iowa Cemetery. A memorial is being established. There is no scheduled visitation.

Local relatives include his brother, Rex Farwell of Red Oak, Iowa; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Walter Maurice Farwell was born on March 29, 1928 in Walnut Township, Fremont County, Iowa, the son of Clyde and Erma (Liggett) Farwell. Walter entered into eternal rest on Sunday, February 24, 2013 in Tipton, Iowa.

In 1930, the family moved to Prairie Township, where he attended Mt. Hope and Sunnyside country schools. Beginning in the sixth grade, he enrolled in the Sidney Public Schools, graduating valedictorian of his Class of 1945. In the fall of 1945, Walter entered Tarkio College, but transferred to the Conservatory of Music in Kansas City the next year. While completing his senior year, he taught part-time at Weston, Missouri. He had just started full time teaching when in September of 1950 he was called up to the first draft quota from Fremont County, Iowa for the Korean War. After receiving basic training, his outfit, the 503rd Military Police Battalion, remained in Fort Bragg, NC as cadre in a Replacement Training Center. Besides his duties as military policeman, he organized a drum and bugle corps which performed at various military functions; served as chapel organist for the RTC Chapel; accompanied various USO performers and sang baritone in the "Coopers of Harmony", a barbershop quartette in the battalion.

After completing his master's degree in August 1953 at Iowa City, he taught six years at Fayette, Iowa. He also served as head voice teacher at Wartburg College, Waverly, Iowa. He returned to the public schools, teaching 1961-1967 at Tipton and 1967-1990 at Davenport, Iowa. At Davenport, he was cited three times as an outstanding teacher. He retired in June of 1990.

Walter during his lifetime was an avid researcher of genealogy and local history. His genealogical research began with notes taken in 1941 from his Grandmother Farwell and widened through numerous genealogically oriented vacations throughout the United States. He was immersed in the English Public Record Office publications, which are elucidated only by his knowledge of Bracton's medieval law. His genealogical research has appeared in several publications. He was a member of the Methodist Church where grace is ever present. It is true that His cup overflows

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

013Mildred "Millie" (Maxwell) Goodrich was born on the family farm between Shenandoah and Essex on March 18, 1919, the daughter of Thomas William "T.W." and Winnie (Beck) Maxwell. Millie entered into eternal peace on Thursday, February 21, 2013 in Shenandoah, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Shenandoah United Methodist Church.

Millie's entire life was spent in Page County. She attended country school through the 8th grade, and graduated from Shenandoah High School with the Class of 1937. She continued her education at Tarkio College where she received her teaching degree in 1941. On April 8, 1950 she was united in marriage to Merton Eldon Goodrich in Papillion, Nebraska. The couple was blessed with the birth of two daughters, Marcia and Mary Ann.

Millie started working in her early teens. Her family owned Porter's Lake and it was here that Millie had her first job as a lakeboat captain. She later worked for Dr. Henstorf and Dr. Powers. She also worked for Dr. Tracy as a dental technician, owned and operated Skateland Roller Rink in Shenandoah and managed several farms with her husband, Gabby. Millie was a devoted wife, proud mother and a loving grandmother.

She was also very involved with several organizations including the Daughters of the American Revolution (for over 60 years), the Tarkio Alumni Association, RSROA Skating Associating, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Shenandoah Historical Society, and other community groups. She was also a longstanding member of the First United Methodist Church in Shenandoah. She enjoyed working at the roller rink, farming, genealogy, taking her daughters to baton contests; both locally and nationally and watching the University of Iowa Hawkeye Band.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband Merton "Gabby" Goodrich. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters Marcia Goodrich-Volker and husband Curt of Shenandoah and Mary Ann Goodrich-Keep and husband Scott of Omaha, NE; grandson Matthew Volker of Shenandoah; nephews Larry Goodrich of Cherokee, IA, Denny Goodrich of Stanton, IA, Mick Goodrich, Randy Goodrich and Jerry Goodrich all of Creston, IA; cousins Marjorie Briestholtz of Cokato, MN and Sharon (Beck) Bergquist of Oregon; other family and friends

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

014Ruthella Agnes Marcella (Carlson) Bersch, daughter of Lawrence A. and Anna E. "Ruth" (Hammergren) Carlson was born on December 31, 1922 in Hepburn, Iowa, passed away on February 19, 2013 at the age of 90.

Ruthella was raised on a farm a mile and half southwest of Bethesda, Iowa. She attended a country school through the eighth grade. She moved to Omaha, Nebraska in her early 20's. She was united in marriage to Robert W. Bersch on June 19, 1960 at the Bethesda Lutheran Church in Bethesda, Iowa. They resided in Omaha, Nebraska. She worked for Butternut Coffee as a coffee bean tester. After retiring in 1970 they moved to Kisse Mills, Missouri. Following the death of Bob, Ruthella moved to Essex, Iowa in 2000.

Ruthella was a member of Bethesda Lutheran Church, ELCA, and the Quilting Ladies of the Bethesda Lutheran Church. She enjoyed flowers, gardening and crocheting. She also enjoyed dancing, fishing and traveling with her husband Bob.

Ruthella was preceded in death by her husband Robert Bersch; parents Lawrence and Anna "Ruth" Carlson; sisters Henrietta Carlson and Regina O'Malley; and brother Earl Carlson. Those left to cherish her memory include numerous nieces, nephews and cousins

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

015Florence Mildred (Darland) Miller was born on November 23, 1916 in Hastings, Iowa, the daughter of Don Leo and Florence May (Eacrett) Darland. Mildred entered into eternal peace on February 17, 2013 at her winter home in Mesa, AZ.
Mildred's early life was spent in the Hastings community where she graduated from high school with the Class of 1934. She later moved to San Fernando, California where she attended college and majored in Library Science. On April 14, 1940 she was united in marriage to Max Miller at the Farragut United Methodist Church. Following marriage, the couple resided on a farm near Norwich.
Mildred was a dedicated wife and mother. Mildred was a very social lady, and enjoyed many interests outside the home including belonging to the Shenandoah Hospital Auxiliary, PEO, Eastern Star, the Women's Society of Christian Service and the Norwich Social Hour. Mildred was a member of the Methodist Church in Norwich and later transferred her membership to the First United Methodist Church in Shenandoah. She also worked part time at Ladies Apparel in Shenandoah. Some of her interests included playing cards, quilting, baking, volunteering, reading and gardening. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Helen Richards, Carol Holmes and Ruth Chandler; two brothers, Warren Darland and Allan Darland; her husband Max; son, Jonathon Miller; and grandson, Zack Porter.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Ann Nelson and husband Harold Bruce of Bonner Springs, KS, Jane Gloede of Vinton, IA, Bill Miller of Shenandoah, IA and Mark Miller and wife Carolea of Lemars, IA; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Phyllis Ketcham of Shenandoah, IA; sisters-in-law, Kathryn Ketcham of Shenandoah, IA and Arline Darland of Dewitt, IA; other relatives and friends
.

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

016Frances Offenberger, 82, passed away Feb. 13, 2013 at Shenandoah Medical Center in Shenandoah. Frances Alice Newberg was born on June 5, 1930 at the family home near College Springs, Iowa. Her parents were Frank Albert and Minnie Alice (Smith) Newberg. She graduated from Amity High School, College Springs, Iowa with the Class of 1949. Over the years she was employed at Squire's Ice Cream and was a sales clerk at McLellan's 5 and 10 Cent Store both in Shenandoah. She also worked in the kitchens at the Mental Health Institute in Clarinda and at Elm Heights in Shenandoah. She met William (Bill) Offenburger from Shenandoah and they were married on January 25, 1969 at St. Clare's Catholic Church in Clarinda. They lived in Clarinda working together at the Mental Health Institute. But their happiness was cut short when Bill got sick and died in 1970. They were blessed with a son, John William. After Bill's death she and John returned to Shenandoah to be closer to her and Bill's families. She enjoyed raising a garden, cooking, making many different crafts and helping her son with various jobs and activities.

Preceding Frances in death were her husband, Bill; parents, Frank and Minnie Newberg; brothers and sisters and their spouses, Mary and Carl Swim, Paul and Evelyn Newberg, Albert Newberg, Velma and Robert Patience, Agnes and Ernie Smith, Carl Newberg, Kenneth Ernest Newberg, Maxine and Arden Greishaber, Harvie Newberg, Sheldon Newberg; and brother-in-law, Loren Fischer. Her father and mother-in-law, Herman and Anna Offenburger and brothers and sister-in-law, Tom Offenburger and Dan and Mary Jean Offenburger and Robert Watson.

Survivors include her son, John of Shenandoah; brother, Arllie and Ruth Newberg of Buena Park, CA; sister, Delores Fischer of Shenandoah; sisters-in-law, Lois Knowlton of Temple City, CA and Peggy Burkhardt of Bellevue, NE; brothers and sister-in-laws, Beverly Watson of Johnston, IA, Quillie and Sue Polk of Omaha, NE, Chuck and Carla Offenburger of Jefferson, IA and Chris and Karl Werner of Cedar Rapids, IA; many cousins; other relatives and many friends

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

017Cleatus Earl Lekey, Jr., son of Cleatus Earl, Sr., and Nellie (Ramsey) Lekey was born on December 3, 1931 at Burlington Jct., Missouri. He passed away unexpectedly on Monday morning, February 4, 2013 at the Shenandoah Medical Center at the age of 81.
Growing up, Earl spent time in the four communities of Wichita, Kansas, Maryville, Missouri, Burlington Jct., Missouri and Sunnyside, Washington before settling in southwest Iowa after moving to Clarinda.
Earl proudly served his country during the Korean War. He enlisted in the Army on July 19, 1950 in Kansas City, Missouri and served until being honorably discharged at Wolters Air Force Base in Texas on July 18, 1953.
On November 6, 1955, Earl was united in marriage to Lois Joan Elrod in Clarinda, Iowa. To this union five children were born, Cleatus Bert, Debora, Russell, Tina and Timothy. Following their marriage they made their home in Clarinda until later moving to Shenandoah.
Earl worked for several different employers through the years. They included: Griffin Pipe in Council Bluffs, Mount Arbor Nurseries and he worked as a farmhand for local farmers, Norman Bierbaum and Jesse McIntyre. He was a member of the Fifth Ave Methodist Church in Council Bluffs and the Shenandoah Eagles Club. In his spare time he loved to go fishing and he liked sitting in the yard under a big tree enjoying the shade during the summer.
Earl was preceded in death by his son Cleatus Bert Lekey, nephew Darwin Smith and great-granddaughter Deiyia Ruth Berry. Those left to cherish his memory include is wife Lois Lekey of Shenandoah, daughter Debora Lekey of Shenandoah, son Russell Lekey and wife Linda of Piedmont, South Dakota, daughter Tina Fox of Council Bluffs, son Timothy Lekey of Shenandoah, four grandchildren Jennifer, Tami, Julia, Steve and 10 great-grandchildren

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

018Helen Elizabeth Riley, daughter of Joseph and Lezetta Green, was born January 6, 1918 in New Hampton, Missouri. Helen passed away on January 31, 2013 in Nebraska City, Nebraska at the age of 95 years and 25 days.

Helen attended a county school outside of New Hampton called Pleasant Ridge School. She went though the eighth grade like most children in that era. Helen was united in marriage to William Everett Riley on August 15, 1939 in Eagleville, Missouri and resided in Bethany, Missouri.

When Helen and William moved to Shenandoah she worked for Earl May Seed Company, where she worked for 30 years. Helen enjoyed gardening, cooking and needlework.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband William, a grandson, parents Joseph and Lezetta, a sister, five brothers, aunts, uncles and cousins. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters Janet Allen of Tucson, Arizona and Carolyne Bridgford of Hamburg, Iowa, four granddaughters, eight great-grandchildren, nephews and great-nieces

Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home, Shenandoah, Iowa.

 

019Dale Fesenmeyer, 88, died Thursday, March 7, 2013 at his home in Excelsior Springs, Mo. Dale, a New Year’s baby, was born at his grandparents’ family farm just north of Clarinda, Iowa, on January 1, 1925 . His parents, Lester and Bessie Barrett Fesenmeyer, moved to their own farm east of Shambaugh, where they raised six children. All six attended the Mt. Joy School. Dale later graduated from Clarinda High School. He remembered helping build the stone FAA Chapter House, now part of the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum.

While working at the Berry Seed Company, Dale met and married Etta Runyan of Braddyville on June 5, 1946. For many years, Dale was an employee of the Clarinda Hog Yard, but in 1968, after attending Colorado Aero Tech, he became an airframe power plant mechanic job with TWA in Kansas City. After retirement in 1986, the couple moved to Excelsior Springs, Mo., but spent many of their winters on their land near Rio Hondo, Texas.

Avid travelers, Dale and Etta vacationed in New Zealand, Mexico, and Hawaii, and explored the back roads of America in their RV. Dale enjoyed attending bluegrass festivals and continued to enjoy bluegrass music throughout his life. His other interests included genealogy, reading Westerns, fishing, playing cards and exercising. He was an dedicated member of the local senior exercise group until his final days.

Dale was preceded in death by his wife, Etta D. Fesenmeyer, and a son, Ronald L. Fesenmeyer.

He is survived by daughter, Linda Jones; sisters, Leona Rubin and Joan Hughes, both of Clarinda; brothers, Gerald Jean and Jerry Paul of Rio Hondo, Texas, and Fred of Eldon, Mo.; two grandchildren, Sarah Herriott of Eureka, Calif., and Aaron Burton of Concord, Calif.; and one great grandchild, Emmett Herriott.

Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m., and the service at 2 p.m., Thursday, March 14, 2013 at the Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, 217 W. Broadway, Excelsior Springs, Mo. Interment will be at the Clarinda, Iowa Cemetery at a later date.

 

020Elizabeth J. Tribolet, age 90, of Council Bluffs, passed away March 11, 2013, at Risen Son Christian Village in Council Bluffs.

Elizabeth was born June 30, 1922, in Hopkins, Missouri, to the late Ava and Lena (Blake) Pistole. She graduated Hopkins High School in 1940. Elizabeth married Harold G. “Pete” Tribolet on February 28, 1942. They were blessed with three children. The Tribolets made their home in Bedford, Iowa, before moving to Council Bluffs in 1965. Elizabeth worked as a secretary for City Glass for 20 years, retiring in 1985. She was a member of First Christian Church, Co. Bluffs.

In addition to her parents, Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Tribolet in 2005; brothers, Charlie Pistole in WWII and Dale Pistole.

Elizabeth is survived by her daughters, Barbara (Steve) Grandfield of Council Bluffs, Kay (Ted) Gundlach of Lakewood, Colorado; son, Ronald (Nancy) Tribolet of Humble, Texas; grandchildren, Matt (Korie) Tribolet, Doug (Kim) Tribolet, Chris Gundlach, Eric (Courtney) Gundlach, DeDee Oliver, Deanna Malek and Cole Grandfield; great grandchildren, Grant, Grace, Kaylee, Robyn, Ronnie, Kail, Kyleigh, Braden, Peyton, Gavin and Avery; sister, Darlene Andrews; brother, John (Edith) Pistole all of Hopkins, Missouri; nieces and nephews

 

021Funeral Service for Zona Schnepp, 88, of Corning, IA, who passed away Sunday, March 10, 2013 at the Corning Nursing and Rehab, will be held Friday, March 15, 2013 at 10:30 AM at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning, Iowa. Visitation will be held Thursday, March 14, 2013 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home with the family greeting friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Interment will be held Saturday, March 16, 2013 at 10:30 AM at the Dallas Center Cemetery in New Market, Iowa. Memorial may be directed to Hospice of Southwest Iowa.

Zona Maxine Schnepp passed away Sunday, March 10, 2013, at the Nursing Home in Corning, Iowa. Zona was born August 19, 1924, in Gravity, Iowa. She was the eighth of nine children born to John and Eliza Blanche Ridnour. Zona graduated from Corning High School in 1942. She taught Kindergarten through the 8th grade at the Taylor County One Room School House from 1942 to 1957. She also worked in the kitchen at various restaurants in Corning, including Mitchell's Café and the Corning Nursing Home. Zona spent 23 years until her retirement at Rosary Hospital, where she served in housekeeping, pharmacy tech and purchasing agent.

She loved baking, crossword puzzles, quilting and sewing.

She is preceded in death by parents John and Eliza; brothers, Elmer, Eldon, Oren, Orval; sisters, Hazel and Meda.

She is survived by her brother Ralph (Joyce) Ridnour of Omaha, her sister Betty Johnson of Corning, twin daughters, Lola (Larry) Wentz of Sioux City and Linda Green of Blockton, three grandchildren, Keenan and Quintin Crow of Sioux City and Tiffany Green of Blockton

 

022Funeral services for June Grey, age 102, of Clarinda, Iowa, formerly of Dodge City, Kansas, who entered into peace Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at Westridge Care Center, Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Andrew Rubenking officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 5-7 p.m., at the funeral home prior to the service. Burial will be 3:00 p.m., Thursday, March 14, 2013, in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Dodge City, Kansas. Memorials may be directed to First United Methodist Church, Clarinda, Iowa Sew and Share or Westridge Care and Rehab, Clarinda.

June Viola Grey entered into rest Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at Westridge Care Center, Clarinda, Iowa. She was born June 15, 1910 at Ford, Kansas, the daughter of Baker and Mabel (Gentzler) Scott. June was the oldest of seven children and at the age of sixteen years became responsible for the siblings when her mother died suddenly. She graduated from Ford High School.

June married Donald Grey July 1935. To this union two children were born, Venna June Glenn (Dallas) of Clarinda, Iowa and Donald Scott Grey (Judy Schweitzer) of Huntersville, North Carolina. She resided in Dodge City, Kansas until 2005 when she came to Clarinda to be near her daughter. She was living at Westridge Care Center.

June was preceded in death by her husband, Don Grey; three brothers and one sister.

Survivors include her children; eight grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren and two sisters, Welda Frey of Dodge City, Kansas and Phyllis Irsik of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

June was a member of the First United Methodist Church and active in Circle. She was also active member of the Moose Lodge in Dodge City, Kansas. She transferred membership to the Methodist Church in Clarinda and was active for a time with quilting at Sew and Share. She enjoyed crafts, quilting, playing cards and games and also working jigsaw puzzles. June always enjoyed time with her family

 

023Memorial services for Mary Price, age 103, of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Wednesday, March 20, 2013 at Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 24, 2013 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Andrew Rubenking officiating. Private burial will be in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Nodaway Valley Historical Society. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.

Mary Lucille Vandevender Price was born at the Powers Hospital in Clarinda, Iowa, on March 4, 1910. She was the daughter of Lewis and Eva Glassgow Vandevender and grew up on the family farm attending the Vandevender School through 8th grade. After graduating from Clarinda High School in 1926 she attended Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri for two years and then transferred to Iowa State University where she graduated in 1930 with a degree in Home Economics.

On July 18, 1931 Mary Van married Russell Ruby Price of Winterset, Iowa; in her mother's flower garden on the family farm. For the next five years the Prices lived in Oskaloosa, Iowa, where Russ taught in the high school. They then moved in 1935 to Valley Township to engage in farming with Mary's father. To this union two children were born: Nancy Ellen on April 25, 1936 and Lewis Vandevender "Van" on January 17, 1939.

From childhood Mary loved riding horses and always had cats and dogs as pets. These were often her playmates as she was an only child. She also became an avid bird watcher and enjoyed raising large vegetable gardens.

Mary was proud of her pioneer ancestors. Her grandfather, Phillip Vandevender, established the Valley Township Farm in 1854. Her grandmother, Nancy Harris Vandevender, came to the Hepburn area from Indiana with her family in a covered wagon in 1856. Mary's maternal grandparents, Glassgows, settled in Hawleyville, Iowa as the area was first being settled in the 1850's.

Mary participated in numerous organization and their activities. She was a member of the First Methodist Church of Carinda, a 76 year member of Chapter AE of PEO, a member of Eastern Star Chapter 214 since 1928, and a member of the Delta, Delta, Delta Sorority since college days.

A peaceful passing from life came to Mary on March 20, 2013, at the Goldenrod Care Center in Clarinda where she had resided for the past ten years. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, and a great granddaughter. Survivors include her daughter, Nancy Stevens and husband Marcus of Ashland, Montana; daughter-in-law, Janet Price of Clarinda, Iowa; grandchildren, William Stevens of Ashland, Montana, Mary Suzanne Notti of Otter, Montana, Cynthia Gratwohl of Laurel, Montana, Todd Price of Glenview, Illinois and David Price of Clarinda, Iowa; and ten great grandchildren

 

024Celebration of Life Services for Ray Snyder, age 78 of Bedford, who passed away Tuesday evening at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center will be held Friday, March 22, 2013, at 10:30 AM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation will be Thursday from 3 – 7 PM with the family greeting friends from 5 – 7 PM. Interment will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials may be given in Ray's name or directed to the Bedford First Baptist Church or the Bedford High School Booster Club. Memories may be shared at: www.ritchiefuneralhome.com.

Raymond William "Ray" Snyder was born in Southgate, California the youngest child of William and Rosezella (Croy) Snyder. Ray moved to Bedford in 1948, graduating from Bedford HS in 1952, where he excelled at athletics, especially football. Ray spent two years in the Army where he served in Germany and France working on radio towers, earning the rank of Corporal. He then spent three years studying pre-engineering at NWMSU. He was united in marriage to Patricia (Anderson), of Hopkins, Missouri August 18, 1957 at the First Christian Church, Ray and Pat moved to California where Ray began a career with NASA, working primarily on mass spectrometers. After 12 good years and raising 4 children in Lancaster, California, Ray and Pat moved to Bedford so their children could benefit from the more stable Midwest family and school environment. Ray used his teenage experience helping his father in his carpentry business and working on a traveling roofing crew to start his own construction business. Ray's "jack of all trades" abilities and strength along with his selling ability helped him build a loyal roofing clientele in SWIA and NWMO, using primarily PACE roofing products. Ray also enjoyed commodities markets as a hobby for many years and worked as a licensed broker for a short time. Ray loved to learn new things, reading and working on his computer. He loved to talk to people and also to travel, especially when it involved heading "west" with Pat. Ray enjoyed coaching Little League baseball, swimming and diving, skiing and camping with his family. Ray was a member of the Bedford 1st Baptist Church, serving as a deacon and also volunteering on several construction projects. He also enjoyed frequenting the Junction Café for coffee and visiting. Ray loved his family and friends and lived life with zeal. He was a positive person even through his later life brought physical challenges. Ray will be missed dearly, but always remembered as a caring and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Ray is survived by wife, Patricia, Bedford, Iowa; children Michael and wife Judy, Round Rock, Texas, Michelle and Mark Iglehart, Blue Springs, Missouri, Susan and Dean Rowe, Bedford, Iowa, Rene' and Roger O'Riley, Hopkins, Missouri, 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; brother Dean and wife Bonnie Snyder, sisters, Lois Scheiffele and Naomi Stockton, brothers-in-law, Roger Anderson and Ron Anderson.

Preceding Ray in death, his parents, William and Rosezella, and brother Richard Snyder

 

025uneral Service for Darlene Palmer, 83, of Corning, IA, who passed away Thursday, March 14, 2013 at the Lenox Care Center will be held Tuesday, March 19, 2013 at 1:30 PM at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning, Iowa. Open Visitation will be held Monday, March 18, 2013 from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home. Interment will be held at the Prairie Rose Cemetery. In lieu of plants, memorials may be directed to the family at this time. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Darlene Betty Haley was born south of Brooks, Iowa on February 25, 1930. She was the seventh of nine children of Thomas and Florence (Ridnour) Haley. She attended country school until the eighth grade and grew up on the farm. In July of 1947, she married Clifford Palmer. Clifford and Darlene rented farms around the Nodaway and Brooks area. In 1957, they moved to a farm south of Brooks. Darlene spent her time on the farm as Housewife. She enjoyed tending to her flowers and garden. Clifford and Darlene had three children: Dale, Marvin, and Donna. Darlene enjoyed embroidering, making tea towels, and pillow cases in her pass time. She also enjoyed watching her husband, brothers, children, and grandchildren play sports.

She is survived by her children: Dale Palmer of Omaha, Nebraska, Marvin Palmer of Corning, Iowa, and Donna Palmer of Corning, Iowa; her sister, Doris Pashek; 9 grandchildren; 4 ½ great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband; her parents; seven brothers and sisters; daughter-in-law, Michelle Palmer

 

026

Donna Barnes Fannon, 69, of Stanberry, MO, passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2013, at the Golden Living Center, Maryville, MO.

Donna was born on September 10, 1943, in Albany, MO, and lived all her life in the area. Her parents were Boyd and Hazel (Lee) Barnes.

Donna attended Albany schools and later obtained her G.E.D. She worked at the former Stanberry Manufacturing Company, then at Bendix Corp. in Kansas City, MO, and retired in 1980 from Eveready Battery, Maryville, MO. She also helped with the family dairy for over 30 years.

She was a member and attended the R.L.D.S. Church, formerly of Bedison, MO. She was an avid reader and made many afghans through the years. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister Crystal Parman.

On October 9, 1958, in Albany, MO, Donna was united in marriage to Forrest E. Fannon, he survives on the home. She is also survived by her daughter, Deborah (Steve) Piper, Ravenwood, MO; her son, Daniel (Shirley) Fannon, Stanberry, MO; 3 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Donna will be buried at the Swinford Cemetery, Arkoe, MO. No formal services or visitation is planned. Arrangements are under the direction of the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO

 

027

Lowell L. Weland, 78, of Maryville, MO, and formerly of Elmo, MO, passed away on Monday, March 18, 2013, at the Golden Living Center in Maryville.

Lowell was born on January 21, 1935, in Elmo, MO, to Lawrence G. and Verlie (Ecker) Weland. He graduated from Elmo High School and lived most all his life in the area.

Lowell had been a Banker and Insurance Agent in Elmo for all his life. He worked for the Farmers Merchants Bank (now CB&T), and had been an agent for the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Maryville. He attended the Elmo Methodist Church. He was also in the Missouri National Guard in Maryville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Alan Weland, in 2004; and his brother, Dean Weland, in 1993.

On September 16, 1956, Lowell was united in marriage to Liva R. Graham, in Elmo, she survives of the home in Maryville.

Other survivors include his children, 2 daughters, Brenda (Ron) Howard, Clearmont, MO; and Teresa Weland, Clarinda, IA; son, Lynn (Jana) Weland, Creston, IA; 3 brothers, Rex (Judy) Weland, and Charles (Karen) Weland, both of Chattanooga, TN, and Wes (Delores) Weland, Belton, MO; 11 grandchildren, 2 step grandchildren, many great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, March 22, 2013, at the Elmo Methodist Church, Elmo, MO. The burial will be in the Lamar Cemetery, Elmo, MO. The family will receive friends from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Thursday, March 21, 2013 at the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO

 

028Frances Fern (Craig) Morgan was born November 14, 1920, in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was one of three children born to Hiram Harrison and Blanche Fern (Slack) Craig. She received her early education in Lincoln Public Schools, and attended Brownville High School.

She was baptized and a lifelong member of the Brownville Christian Church and the Brownville Kensington. She was a teacher's aide at Locust Grove Country School between Brownville and Auburn, as part of the Green Thumb Project. She was also a tour guide for the Brownville Historical Society. She enjoyed Bingo, the slot machines, and game shows. She always joked her epitaph should say "I'd rather be playing Bingo!"

Frances was a loving wife, mother, sister, daughter, and grandmother. Responsibility was thrust on her at the early age of 14. She became the head of the family when her father, a fireman with the Lincoln Fire Department, was injured in the line of duty. He died from his injuries two years later. Two days before he died, in 1936, she negotiated a settlement with the City of Lincoln. Frances and her family then moved to Brownville.

In 1938, she married Ernest Pebley, and they became the parents of four daughters. They were later divorced.

During World War II, Frances met the love her life, William O. "Bill" Morgan, at a dance. They fell in love, singing and dancing to Glenn Miller, the Dorseys, Benny Goodman, and all the big bands. "In the Mood" was their song.

Bill and Frances married on August 18, 1948, in Tarkio, Missouri. Their children became one big family and they became the parents of two more children. They made their home in Rock Port, Missouri.

In 1962, Bill had a massive stroke, and again she had to step up. She took care of him faithfully for 14 years, while raising their six children. These were rough years, but very happy ones. In 1967, they built a home in Brownville, Nebraska, and moved there so she could be near her mother and sister, Mae, and help care for them. Bill passed away in 1976, and Frances continued to make her home in Brownville until 2005, when she returned to Rock Port.

Farmers Home Administration honored her in 2000 for being one of the few home owners in the nation to pay off a 33-year loan. She was very proud of this accomplishment. She was always proud of her home, and was a meticulous housekeeper, a trait she passed on to her children. Always busy, she could never understand someone "just sitting."

Frances was an exceptional cook, especially known for her Sunday dinners, which she did well into her eighties. Sunday afternoons would be filled with board games, Rummy, Boggle, music on the stereo, even dancing. (Of course, this was after the dishes were done and the floor was scrubbed!) Christmas time meant weeks of candy-making. She could pull a seven course meal out of her freezer, and always had several pies made ahead, just in case. No one ever left her house hungry, and they were usually loaded down with leftovers for the coming week.

Frances was definitely one of a kind. Although she had no formal education, she was very bright and quick-witted, often beating the contestants at the final Jeopardy answer. World capitals and state capitals were two of her favorite categories. She could still amaze people at 92 by saying the alphabet backwards.

Firm but loving, if she was on your side, you had a great ally. But if you weren't . . . look out! "My way or the highway" is a fitting way to describe her philosophy of life. Fighting battles for others was part of her demeanor. She was a people person, able to talk to anyone, anytime, anywhere. She could strike up a conversation with a stranger, and by the time it was over, they had told her their life story. This made for many interesting anecdotes over the Sunday dinner table.

She was a huge influence on her children's and grandchildren's lives. Every one of them has a special story or remembrance of Grandma Frances. Even her grandchildren's friends were special, some of them calling her Grandma or G.F. When she moved in with her daughter, Tommie, she acquired even more "grandkids" from Tommie's daycare. She sang them songs, told stories, rocked them to sleep, and handed out gumdrops to dry their tears.

Frances passed away March 18, 2013, at Pleasant View Nursing Home at the age of 92.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bill; sisters, Eva Mae Betts and infant, Evelyn Faye; grandson, Kenneth Stanley Shepherd, Jr.; great-grandson, Darius Schulenberg; stepchildren, Joan Kemerling Logan and Charlie Bill Morgan; half-sisters, Edith Wager, and Jessie Scarbrough; half-brother, Raymond Craig; and sons-in-law, Jerry Mount and Virgil Taylor.

She is survived by her children: Janice (Max) Geib, Fairfax, Missouri; Sherry (Wayne) Gatz and Judy Miller, both of Falls City, Nebraska; Donna (Kenny) Shepherd, Brownville; Dick (Billie) Morgan and Tommie (Wayne) Miles, Rock Port; 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great grandchildren.

Mom, your battle is over now. Some people might have been intimidated by you, maybe didn't like you, but you had such an inner strength that no one could ever say you weren't tough. We think God knew you could handle anything the world threw at you. We're just not sure how well the world could handle what you threw back.

Rest in peace now. You have won the biggest jackpot of all . . . a place in Heaven. We will love you and miss you and will hold you in our hearts forever and ever.

Services: 10:30 A.M., Thursday, March 21, 2013, Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port, Mo.
Interment: Walnut Grove Cemetery, Brownville, Nebraska.

Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com

 

029Roy L. Robinson, the son of Milford “Dode” and Atta Mae (Holmes) Robinson, was born February 26, 1928 in rural Putnam County, Missouri. In 1935, the Robinson family moved to a farm five miles south of Unionville, Missouri. Roy attended the Unionville Schools and in 1942 the family moved to Peculiar, Missouri, where Roy graduated in 1945 at the age of 17. Immediately following graduation, Roy enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed near Memphis, Tennessee for basic training. He was transferred to the Great Lakes Naval Base and to Oakland, California, where he helped process the outgoing veterans. Roy returned to Kansas City, Missouri, and worked at Vendo Manufacturing Plant, who hired him mostly to play basketball on their semi-pro team. In 1948, he returned to Unionville to help his father in construction.

In July of 1949, he was united in marriage to Lila Lou Henson. Three children were born to this union; David, Janette and Robert. In 1952, Roy joined the Missouri State Highway Patrol, an organization he proudly served for 32 years. He was stationed in Kirksville, Missouri for three years, and then moved to Moberly, Missouri where he served until he retired at the rank of Sargent in 1984. In 2000, Roy and Lila moved to Rock Port, Missouri to be near two of their children. Lila passed away May 12, 2008. Roy passed away Thursday, March 07, 2013, at Community Hospital- Fairfax, Fairfax, Missouri at the age of 85.

The facts about a man are written above, but Roy was a loving husband. He and Lila were a “real” team. She being his moral support during his career and he was her strength as her health failed. The facts don’t tell what a good father he was. His career choice made for long hours, but whenever his kids were in an activity, he could be counted on to be in the stands, many times, in uniform. He was the disciplinarian, the dreaded words, “Wait till your father gets home”, were taken very seriously. Usually the worst part of any punishment was knowing that he was disappointed. When Roy snapped his fingers, everyone knew he meant business. Roy was a proud grandparent whom loved his grandchildren greatly. He once told Lila that he didn’t know how to be a good grandfather, he never had an example to follow. But if they are asked, they will say, they think he was one of the best. The majority of them learned to hunt and or fish at the farm, and some learned to drive in the pasture in his old beater truck he kept for that very reason. He loved to watch their activities, and they knew they could count on him. The facts also don’t tell what a loving son he was to Dode and Atta, and a brother to Max and Colleen. They too knew he could be depended on at any time. The facts also lack in telling of his gardening skills. He once said he saw God in the garden. It provided him peace and he found joy in sharing his bounty. The facts also don’t tell how much he will be missed by those who loved him and knew him as Dad, Grandpa, neighbor and friend.

Besides his parents, Roy is preceded in death by his wife, Lila, son, David, brother, Max Robinson, sister, Colleen Braden, and one infant sister. Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Janette and Garrett Smith, Rock Port; son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Terrie Robinson, Muldrow, Oklahoma; daughter-in-law, Norena Robinson, Rock Port; nine grandchildren, Jon Robinson, Heather Robinson, Halley Hunter and husband, Jay; Brent Dahlin, Wade Smith and wife, Ashley; Kalen Smith and wife, Celinda; Ellie Schulz and husband, Brian; Lauren Surkamer, Luke Robinson and wife, Jen; twelve great-grandchildren, Katie Robinson, Sadie, Zeke and Silas Shulz, Jack and Lincoln Surkamer, Luca and Lilyila Smith, Rylan Hunter, Peyton and Emma Dunworth, Keenan Robinson and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service: 2:00 P.M., Sunday, March 10, 2013, at Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port.
A private family inurnment will be held at Unionville Cemetery, Unionville, Missouri, at a later date.

Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com

 

030Mary M. Amthor, the daughter of Elza Ross and Myrtle Viola (Batey) Janes was born September 29, 1924, in Watson, Missouri. She graduated from Watson High School and attended Superior Beauty Academy, graduating with her beautician’s license.

On November 11, 1943, Mary was united in marriage to James R. Amthor. To this union, a daughter, Vicki, was born. In 1956, Mary and James opened Amthor Beauty and Barber Shop, in Rock Port, Missouri. They were happily married for 57 years. James passed away October 31, 2000. Mary passed away Sunday, March 3, 2013, at a health care facility in Gower, Missouri, at the age of 88 surrounded by her family.

Mary was a member of the United Methodist Church, Rock Port, a charter member of the Rock Port Golf and Country Club and a 50 year member of the Rock Port Chapter # 440, Order of the Eastern Star. She was also a member of the two gallon club at the local blood bank and was a member of the Sweet Adelines. Mary was an avid sports fan and enjoyed playing softball, golf, bowling, water skiing and boating. She loved watching her daughter, Vicki, at Rock Port Blue Jay sporting events. She carried that pride with her as she cheered for her grandsons’ team, the Mid-Buchanan Dragons and continued being an avid Mizzou fan. Mary always kept active by sewing, making crafts, creating stained glass, making flower arrangements and designing jewelry trees. She loved jewelry and bling, always making everything and everyone sparkle.

Mary was the happiest when she was entertaining with good food, humor, valued wisdom and often a water fight. She defined the words “family” and “mother” by her living example of faith and caring. She dearly loved her family and friends and will be missed by many.

Besides her parents and husband, James, Mary was preceded in death by brother, Elza Ross Janes and wife, Opal; brothers-in-law, Richard Amthor and wife, Alice, and Charles Amthor; and sister-in-law, Marjorie Amthor. Survivors include daughter Vicki Rennae Kline and husband, John W., Agency, Missouri; grandson, Steven Amthor Kline and wife, Jodie; extended family, Cheryl and Ian Rosenauer; great-grandchildren, Reid, Trinity and Brody; brother, David Stastny; brothers-in-law, Bill Amthor and wife, Bev, and Joe Amthor and wife, Jane; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Funeral Service: 11:00 A.M., Saturday, March 9, 2013, at Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port.
Interment: High Creek Cemetery, Watson, Missouri.


Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com.

 

031Hazel L. Buckley, the daughter of Newton Nelson and Ada Mae (Good) McCampbell, was born March 7, 1924, in Gentry, Missouri. She attended Watermon Country School in Gentry and graduated from Worth High School, Worth, Missouri, in 1942. Hazel was awarded a six month scholarship at Johnson Business College in St. Joseph, Missouri, where she attended school for a year.

On April 9, 1945, Hazel was united in marriage to Maurice James Buckley in Corpus Christi, Texas. To this union, a son, James Lee was born. In 1947, they moved to St. Joseph, Missouri, where Hazel was employed by Swift and Quaker Oats. After they moved to Tarkio, Missouri, she was employed by the First National Bank for 37 years, retiring as the banks Assistant Vice-President. She also served as the City of Tarkio’s elected City Tax Collector, holding that position for 20 years, retiring in 2008. Maurice passed away in September of 1975. Hazel passed away Sunday, March 3, 2013, at Tarkio Rehabilitation and Health Care, Tarkio, at the age of 88.

Hazel was a member of the United Methodist Church, Tarkio, where she served on the finance committee. She was a former member of the Tarkio Mule Barn Theatre Guild, the Tarkio Business Women and was a former chairman of the Northwest Missouri Women Bankers Association. Hazel also served as a board member for the Atchison County Health Center in Tarkio. She was the first woman to serve on the Tarkio Golf Club and was former treasurer and board member of the Tarkio Rough Riders. Hazel loved flowers, gardening and playing golf.

Besides her parents and husband, Maurice, Hazel was preceded in death by five brothers, Elwood, Earl, Reece, Wayne and Jim McCampbell and three sisters, May Murphy, Wilma Gray and Edith McCampbell. Survivors include son, James Lee Buckley, Tarkio; one grandson, Jesse James Buckley, Syracuse, New York; one great-grandson, Jared Buckley, Syracuse, New York; and numerous very special nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 A.M., Friday, March 8, 2013, United Methodist Church, Tarkio.
Inurnment: Home Cemetery, Tarkio.

Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com
Services: Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio

 

032Harold Thomas Perry, the son of Philip LeRoy and Hazel Lucille (Price) Perry, was born December 3, 1930, in Rock Port, Missouri. He attended Rock Port High School, graduating in 1949.

On June 10, 1951, Harold was united in marriage to Charlyne Wells and they became the parents of four daughters, Christine, Debra, Marilyn and Brenda. They were later divorced. On November 18, 1973, Harold was united in marriage to Evelyn Evans, which added four sons, Kim, Steve, Reed and Rocky, to his family. Evelyn passed away in 2008 and Harold passed away Friday, March 1, 2013, at Pleasant View Nursing Home, Rock Port, at the age of 82.

Harold worked in agriculture his entire life. He was employed by Atchison County Coop and Mo Valley Ag, in Rock Port. He also owned and operated a custom application business. After retirement, he mowed yards, managed a large garden and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Harold was a 25 year volunteer with the Rock Port Fire Department and held the position of Fire Chief for 13 years. He was also active on the “chain gang” at the Rock Port football games and was a member of the United Methodist Church, Rock Port.

Besides his parents and wife, Evelyn, Harold was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Virgil Adams and sister-in-law, Charlotte Taylor. Survivors include four daughters, Christine Lewis and husband, Jim, Rock Port, Debra Lee, St. Joseph, Missouri, Marilyn McMahon and husband, Ron, and Brenda Hughes and husband, Rick, all of Rock Port; sons, Kim Evans, Rock Port, Steve Evans and wife, Rhonda, Tarkio, Missouri, Reed Evans and Rocky Evans and wife, Jamie, all of Rock Port; seventeen grandchildren, Cory, Marcie, Jeremy, Jill, Nikki, Danny, Kenny, Bobby, Kari Beth, Lori, Haley, Hyatt, Heath, Mark, Dane, Jodie and Bryan; nineteen great-grandchildren; siblings, Beverly Wacker and husband, Robert, Salem, Illinois, Phyllis Adams, Peru, Nebraska, Dwight Perry and wife, Donna, Watson, Missouri, Dale Perry and wife, Joyce, Auburn, Nebraska; brother-in-law, James Taylor and wife, Marilyn, Flemington, Missouri; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services:
10:00 AM, Tuesday, March 5, 2013, United Methodist Church, Rock Port.
Interment: Greenhill Cemetery, Rock Port

Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com.
Services: Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port

 

033Lois Jean (Crabtree) Baker, the daughter of Donald Q. and Vera E. (Walker) Crabtree, was born September 9, 1934, in Burlington Junction, Missouri. She attended Burlington Junction schools.

In 1952, Lois was united in marriage to Vilas Howell, they later divorced. In 1962, she was united in marriage to Bill Baker, they later divorced. In 1983, Lois was united in marriage to Gene Jackson, they later divorced. Lois was a homemaker. While raising her children, she was an Avon consultant and would also take in sewing or ironing. She was later employed at St. Francis Hospital and at nursing homes in Maryville, Missouri. In the early 1990’s, Lois moved to Shenandoah, Iowa, and was employed by Henry Fields Nursery.

Lois was an excellent cook and loved baking. She made silk flower arrangements and had collections of rocks, coins and stamps. Lois loved taking pictures, capturing the people and things she adored. Lois passed away Friday, March 1, 2013, at the Shenandoah Medical Center, Shenandoah, at the age of 78.

Besides her parents, Lois was preceded in death by daughter, Jeanette (Howell) Diehl; brother, Monte Crabtree; and nephew, Mark Crabtree. Survivors include daughter, Tracey Howell Fielder and husband, Denny, Shenandoah; sons, Virgil Howell and wife, Deborah, upstate New York; Don Baker and wife Lorri, Denver, Colorado; eleven grandchildren, Crystal Hensen, Skyler Dooley, Lori Fisher, Abbey Hauger, Ritchie and Jerimy Diehl, Damian Bohler, Stephanie Bohler, Mark Bohler, Cristen Baker and Jill Bash; eighteen great-grandchildren; sisters, Amy Moore and husband, Jerry, Rock Port, Missouri, and Carol Crabtree, Independence, Missouri; brothers, Paul Crabtree and wife, Bonnie, Grand Junction, Colorado, Elwin Crabtree, Grand Lake, Colorado, and Marvin Crabtree and wife, Lynne, Peoria, Arizona; aunts, Esther Barr, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Donna Jean Sallee, Chariton, Iowa.

SERVICES: 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 6, 2013, First Christian Church, Burlington Junction, Missouri.
INTERMENT: Ohio Cemetery, Burlington Junction

Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com
Services: Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio

 

034Lillian May (Lillie) Wooten, the daughter of Lonnie, Sr. and Nancy (Garbe) Wooten, was born March 22, 1974, in St. Joseph, Missouri. She attended Central High School, in St. Joseph.

Lillian was the mother of three children, daughter, Emily Wooten, and sons, Jacob and Jackson Wooten. She was employed by the St. Joseph Frontier Casino and volunteered at the Veterans of Foreign Wars in St. Joseph. Lillian also worked as a CNA for local nursing homes and was the caregiver for her son, Jacob. Lillian passed away Saturday, February 23, 2013, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, at the age of 38.

Besides her father, Lonnie Wooten, Sr., Lillian is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents and her paternal grandfather. Survivors include daughter, Emily Wooten, sons, Jacob and Jackson Wooten; mother, Nancy Wooten; sisters, Theresa and Leatta Wooten, all of St. Joseph; brother, Lonnie Wooten, Jr., Kansas City, Missouri; grandmother, Irene Turner, St. Joseph; adopted sisters, Mandy Ireland and Christy McCay; and numerous nieces and nephews that will miss their Owie.

Memorial Service: 11:00 A.M., Friday, March 1, 2013, Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio, Missouri.
Inurnment: A private inurnment will be held at a later date at Home Cemetery, Tarkio.

Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com
Services: Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio, Missouri

 

035Brian K. Perry, the son of Dwight Eugene and Donna Anieta (Hoffrogge) Perry, was born November 24, 1959, in Fairfax, Missouri. He attended Rock Port High School, graduating in 1978.

Brian was united in marriage to Lisa Marie Cordner in Nebraska City, Nebraska, and they became the parents of two children, Brockton and Breeze. They were later divorced.

Brian was employed by Missouri Beef Packers, Phelps City, Missouri, until the plant’s closing, when he moved to Omaha, Nebraska. While in Omaha, he was employed by a meat packing plant and was a butcher at Walner’s Grocery Store. Brian then owned and operated his own butcher shop, Avery Meat Market. He was later employed by Environmental Rescue, in Omaha, cleaning rivers, creeks and helping with natural land disaster cleanup. Brian passed away Thursday, February 14, 2013, in Watson, Missouri, at the age of 53.

Brian was preceded in death by his son, Brockton Gabriel Perry and grandparents. Survivors include daughter, Breeze Perry, Bellevue, Nebraska; parents, Dwight and Donna Perry, Watson; brother, Don Perry, Tarkio, Missouri; and three nephews, Mitchell, Martin and Andrew Perry.

Memorial Services: 11:00 A.M., Monday, February 18, 2013, at Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port, Missouri.
A private family inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorials: Brian Perry Memorial Fund for his daughter, Breeze.
Online obituaries and condolences at www.minterfuneralchapels.com
Services: Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port

Hardin Charles Cox, Jr. was born in Rock Port, Missouri on March 4, 1928. He was one of two sons of Hardin Charles Cox Sr. and Frieda Anna (Stapel) Cox.      
   Hardin graduated from Rock Port High School in 1945 and entered the University of Missouri in Columbia. He played football for the Tigers and played in two bowl games, the Cotton Bowl and the Gator Bowl.

   Hardin served in the United States Army from 1946 -1948, then returned to M.U. to finish his degree. He was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and two honor societies, Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) and Q.E.B.H.

   He married Virginia A. “Ginny” (Heifner) in January of 1952 in Maryville, Missouri.   
   Hardin was called up from the Army Reserves to active duty and was sent to Korea in 1952. One of his assignments during the Korean War was serving as a front line observer near enemy lines. After Hardin returned from the Korean War he and Ginny settled in Rock Port and raised two boys, Bryan and Mark.

   He was the President of Farmer’s Mutual Insurance Co. and was owner of Cox & Son Insurance Co. in Rock Port. He was elected to and served in the Missouri House of Representatives from 1965 to 1975, and elected to two terms in the Missouri Senate serving from 1975 to 1983. He served as Assistant Majority Floor Leader in the Senate, and chaired both the Ways and Means and the Banking Committees. Later he served one term as Presiding County Commissioner of Atchison County.

   He was a columnist for the Atchison County Mail for over 20 years. His “Cox’s Conglomerations” won a Missouri Press Association award for Best Personal Column.

   Among his many legislative accomplishments was sponsoring legislation founding the Missouri Tourism Commission. Years later the Commission honored him by naming the Visitors Center on Interstate 29 for him.

   Hardin and his late wife Virginia, were long time members of the First Christian Church in Rock Port, where he enjoyed occasionally giving sermons. In the late 1950s he founded the Christmas-time God and Man Services, an ecumenical celebration that continues to this day. Hardin’s insurance and real estate office, located on Rock Port’s Main Street, allowed him to keep up with all community happenings. He was a lifelong sports fan, and followed the Rock Port Blue Jays and the Missouri Tigers.

   Ginny passed away on Easter Sunday, April 8, 2012. Hardin passed away in Rock Port on March 8, 2013. Hardin is survived by their sons and daughters-in-law, Bryan and Rita of McLean, Virginia and Mark and Sandra of Olathe, Kansas; six grandchildren, Beth, Charlie, Eve, and Hardy Cox, Ryan MacFarlane, and Erin and her husband Jeisun Lawson; brother and sister-in-law, John Henry and Claire Cox of Kansas City; and nieces and nephews, Richard Foster, and John, Jim and Fran Cox.

   He was also preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Lowell “Buddy” Heifner; sister-in-law, Frances Foster; brother-in-law, E.W. Foster, and niece, Candace Foster-Hasis.

   Family requests in lieu of flowers, contributions to the First Christian Church, 501 S. Market St., Rock Port, MO 64482.

   Services were held Wednesday, March 13, 2013, at 11:00 am at the Atchison County Memorial Building at 417 S. Main St. in Rock Port