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

001Vera Joy Evans, one of three children of Minnie (Ast) and Howard William Knott, was born on March 22, 1916 on her grandparents' farm near Minden, Iowa. Her family lived in several different locations in this area where Vera attended country schools. When she was 12 years old, her family moved to Avoca, Iowa due to her father's declining health. Vera continued her education in the Avoca public schools.

Vera and Loren Edward Evans were married on October 25, 1934 in Plattsmouth, Nebraska. Their marriage was blessed with three children, Roberta, Ronald, and Dale.

The couple established their first home on a farm near Oakland, Iowa. They eventually partnered in a business, owning a Skelly gas station. They expanded their business to include a livestock trucking and custom feed grinding operation. In 1947, they purchased their first farm northwest of Carson, Iowa, where they continued to live and expand their farm operation.

Vera and Loren were married 64 years when Loren passed March 23, 1999. Vera continued to live on the home place until 2010, when she entered Elm Heights Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa.

Vera was a long time member of the Presbyterian Church in Carson and served on many church committees. She belonged to the "Quality Quilters" at the church and looked forward to their weekly quilting bees. Vera also was a faithful blood donor for many years.

Vera and Loren spent much time in their motor home with family and friends and visited destinations in Alaska, Canada, Florida, and Texas. She loved to be with family and friends and enjoyed being "on the go". Spring and summer were Vera's favorite times of the year so she could be outdoors to work in her yard and garden. She could never have too many potted geraniums on her steps.

Vera passed away on March 23, 2013 at the Elm Heights in Shenandoah, at the age of 97 years and 1 day. She was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband Loren; son Ronald Evans in 1998, and brother Gene Knott.

Vera is survived by her daughter Roberta Overholser of Shenandoah; son Dale Evans and wife Kay of Carson; ten grandchildren; eighteen great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and brother Earl Knott of Waterford, MI.

Interment in Fairview Pioneer Cemetery, rural Treynor, Iowa.

Memorials to the Carson Fire & Rescue or Donor's Choice.

Loess Hills Funeral Home of Carson in charge of arrangements

 

002Funeral services for Trudy Johnson, age 87, of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace Sunday, March 31, 2013 at the Eiler House, Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at the First Christian Church, Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held 10:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m (service time) at the First Christian Church. Burial will be in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the First Christian Church Organ Fund. 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.

Gertrude Jean Miller Johnson passed peacefully March 31, 2013 at the Eiler House, Clarinda, Iowa with her family at her side. She was born December 8, 1925 in Plymouth, Pennsylvania to Sarah and Irving Miller. Trudy married S. Marvin Johnson January 20, 1951 at the First Christian Church in Plymouth, Pennsylvania. They had four children, Kathy Johnson, Debbie Mellencamp, Celeste Westgaard and Linda Jean who passed March 31, 1957 at the age of three years.

Trudy moved to Clarinda in 1968. She taught English at Clarinda High School from 1968 until her retirement at age 80 in 2006. "Mrs J" touched many lives, always willing to listen, teach and give encouragement. She was always active in her church. Trudy loved both teaching and her church always putting the Lord first in her life.

She is survived by her daughters, Kathy Johnson, Debbie Mellencamp and husband David, Celeste Westgaard and husband Rolf, all of Clarinda, Iowa. Mimi will be greatly missed by her beloved grandchildren, Cody Westgaard, Brad and Christina Mellencamp, Jeff and Chris Mellencamp and her great grandchildren, Andrew, Jackson, Emma Jean, and Madison.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at the Eiler House for all the love and care they gave "Mama" and to Heartland Hospice for all they did to support Trudy and her family.

 

003

Celebration of Life Services for Bernard Allen, age 94, of Lenox who passed away Monday, March 25, 2013, at the Lenox Care Center will be held Friday, March 29, 2013, at the United Presbyterian Church in Lenox at 10:30 AM. Visitation will be Thursday, March 28, 2013, at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox from 3-7 with the family greeting friends from 5-7. There will be a Masonic Service at 7:00 PM following visitation. Interment will be held at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Osceola at 2:00 PM with military rites. Memorials may be directed to the Lenox Sports Complex. Memories may be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox.

Bernard Delno Allen was born October 1, 1918, in the town of Ackworth, Iowa to Jobe Harmon and Nettie Victoria (Hiatt) Allen. He attended grade school in Ackworth and graduated from Indianola High School in 1935. Bernard was a member of Ackworth Friends Church where he married Ruth Norris on June 18, 1940. To this union were born four children.

Bernard worked for Hartzler Electric and Peck Electric Shop in Indianola before moving to Omaha, Nebraska in 1943. Here he was employed in the ground test department of the Glenn L. Martin Nebraska Company who manufactured the B-26 Bomber. In 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy being discharged as an AETM 2C Petty Officer. He then moved to Osceola, Iowa where he and his brother, Eldon, started Allen Radio & Electric Shop. In 1960, he started substituting for a rural carrier with the Osceola Post Office and in 1967, was appointed as a city carrier. In 1977, he was appointed Postmaster in Prescott, Iowa. He retired in October of 1992.

While living in Osceola, Bernard joined the Methodist Church, served on the City Council, the fire department, Chamber of Commerce and Country Club Board. On November 28, 1976, he married Jean Frances (Slocum) Gordon, who brought four daughters into his family.

Bernard was a Past Master of Osceola Masonic Lodge and Past Patron of Ophir Chapter OES. He served the Grand Lodge of Iowa as Junior Grand Deacon in 1971, Junior Grand Warden in 1978, and Deputy Grand Master in 1990. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, and attending the activities of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A high point in his later years was to participate in the World War II Veteran's Honor Flight to Washington D.C.

Survivors include sons Bernard D. Allen Jr. (Liz) of Excelsior Springs, MO and Lee H. Allen (Cheryl) of Hilltop Lakes, TX; daughter Abbie S. Allen (Kevin Brooks) of Grimes, IA; step-daughters Cynthia J. Baker (Galen) of Clearfield, IA, Kathy M. Brown (Gary) of Lenox, IA and Christie K. Brown (Bill) of Lenox and sister-in-law Elaine Tobis of Des Moines. Bernard has eighteen grandchildren, forty-one great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews who will miss him greatly.

Bernard was preceded in death by Ruth and Jean; brothers Eldon and Ivan Allen, sister, Marie Eggars, daughter, Jane Allen, step-daughter, Connie Gordon and grandson, Robert Lee Allen



004

Forrest Donald Wray, 91, Parnell, Missouri, died Friday, April 12, 2013, at Missouri Veterans Home, Cameron, Missouri.

Forrest was born May 10, 1921, at Parnell, Missouri to Victor Hubert and Susie (Scowden) Wray. He married Lila D. Knutson on December 24, 1942 in Maryville, Missouri.

A 1939 graduate of Harmony High School , Forrest was a farmer and was a member of the Curry Richardson Sparks Waldeier American Legion Post #528, Parnell, and the 384th Bomb Group. In 1970, Forrest received the Balanced Farming Award in recognition of his soil conservation practices. He served on the Northeast Nodway School Board, the Farmers Home Administration Board, the ASC Board, and the Orrsburg Telephone Board.

He served his country from 1942-1945 in the United States Army Air Force during World War II. Campaigns were at Normandy and with the Air Offensive in Europe with the 384th Bomb Group.

Preceding Forrest in death were his parents, four brothers Orville, Elvin, Lloyd, and Marvin, and two sisters Beulah Swink and Audrey Ditamore.

Survivors include his wife Lila of their home, sons Vernis (Elaine) Wray, Fort White, FL, Keith (Karen) Wray, Parnell, MO, Garvin (Jennifer) Wray, Holiday, FL, daughters Pamela (Larry) Baumli, Skidmore, MO, Sheila (Greg) Paxton, Maryville, MO, brother Donnis (Maxine) Wray, and sister in law Charlene Wray, Parnell, MO, fifteen grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held 5-7:00 PM Sunday, April 14, at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 AM Monday, April 15 at Price Funeral Home, Maryville, with burial following in Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville. A graveside military service will be conducted by the Curry Richardson, Sparks Waldeier American Legion Post #528, Parnell.

Memorials may be made to Honor Flight Inc. 300 E. Auburn Ave. Springfield, OH 45505-4703, in Forrest's name




005

Helen Marie Harr, 97 of Maryville Missouri, died on Thursday, April 11, 2013, at her home in Maryville.

Helen was born November 17, 1915 in Merrill, Wisconsin, the daughter of Percy and Ella (Zeuske) Cotey.

She was a graduate of Merrill High School in Merrill, Wisconsin and attended the University of Wisconsin  in Stevens Point, after which Helen taught school in Junction City and Clintonville, Wisconsin.

She married Dr John Lauren Harr on September 19, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois.

A teacher and homemaker, Helen was a member of St Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Community, St

Gregory’s Guild, the Wisconsin State Teachers’ Organization and the Faculty Dames of  Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville.

Preceding Helen in death were her husband: Dr John Harr on September 10, 1991; her parents; a sister: Nina Krueger and Brother: Patrick Cotey.

Survivors include her children: Bill Harr and Patrick (Teri) Harr, both of Maryville; Robert (Paula) Harr, Leawood, Kansas; Barbara (Joe) Logan, South Padre Island, Texas;  sisters: Evelyn, Wachtl, Wausau, Wisconsin and Gail Diver, San Diego, California; grandchildren: Elizabeth (Francis) Pineda, Lori (Brian) Sheehan; Nick Glasnapp, Traci (Mark) Kennedy; Tony (Laura) Logan; Lisa (Kevin) Youngblood, Audra Harr, Krista Harr and Robert Harr;  great-grandchildren: Alexander and Anderson Bricksin,  Austin Pineda, Alec Frasier, Brianna, Kyle and Jessica Sheehan, Luke and Joseph Logan, Lauren and Brooke Youngblood and Damien Tunell.

Visitation is 5-7pm. Monday, April 15, 2013 at St Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church, Maryville with a Parish

Rosary at  7pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 am Tuesday, April 16, 2013 at St Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church with burial in Nodaway Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Maryville.

Memorials may be given to St Gregory’s School 315 South Davis, Maryville, Missouri 64468



006Randy Lee Swinford, 57 of Maryville, Missouri died on Tuesday, April 9, 2013, at St Francis Hospital in Maryville, Missouri.

Randy was born March 7, 1956 at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, he was the son of the late Jack and Eldora Mae (Weakley) Swinford, Sr.

Randy was married to Amanda Meyer, October 29, 2008 in Maryville.

Randy was a graduate of Maryville High School, and also had an Associates degree in Computers and Office Management. Before retirement Randy was the Transportation Director for Maryville R-II Schools, continuing to drive for the district after retirement.

A veteran, Randy served in the United States Air Force from 1978-1986.

He was a member of Laura Street Baptist Church, Maryville and a member of the Nodaway Lodge #470 AF & AM.

He was preceded in death by brother, Kenton Paul Swinford and his parents.

Surviving are his wife Amanda, of the home, Maryville, son, Christopher Swinford, Des Moines, IA, daughter, Abby Swinford, Mount Angel, OR, brothers, Mark (Twila) Swinford and Jack Lee (Kimberly) Swinford both of Maryville, MO and Robert (Terri) Swinford, Greenwood, MO, sister, Karen (Ron) Leader, Maryville, four grandchildren, Sadie, Aliyah, Kordell and Jaydon, and numerous neices and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, April 12, 2013 at Price Funeral Home, Maryville. Interment will be in Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville, MO

 

007Billie Dean Melvin, 78, Des Moines, Iowa, formerly of Hopkins, Missouri died Sunday, April 7, 2013, at Mercy Hospital, Des Moines, Iowa.

Billie was born September 26, 1934, in Gravity, Iowa to James Woodford and Inez Ruth (Booze) Melvin. He married Barbara Sue Wolf on June 14, 1953, in Hopkins.

A graduate of Hopkins High School, Billie was an appliance service repairman with the Maytag Company.

Billie was a member of the Wray Memorial United Methodist Church, Charter member of the FFA, the Lion's Club, and Volunteer Fire Department, all of Hopkins.

Preceding him in death were his parents and son Roger Dean Melvin (May 5, 1987).

Survivors are his wife Barbara Sue Melvin of their home, sons Ron (Cindy) Melvin, Pleasant Hill, IA, Rob (Joy) Melvin, Algona, IA, five grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, brother Orville (Mary) Melvin, Liberty, MO, four sisters: Phyllis (Homer) Ulmer, Hopkins, MO., Norma Wuester, Victoria, British Columbia, Evelyn Watts, Boise, ID., Helen (John) Marriott, Clearmont, MO., nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 5-7:00 PM, Thursday, April 11, 2013, at Wray Memorial United Methodist Church, Hopkins, MO.

Funeral Services will be 10:30, Friday, April 12, 2013, at the Wray Memorial United Methodist Church with burial following in Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, Missouri

 

008Helen A. (Crouch) Gregory, 92, Jefferson City, formerly of Maryville, passed into eternal life Monday, February 4, 2013, at the University of Missouri Medical Center in Columbia, MO.

She was born December 30, 1920, in King City, MO, the daughter of Ernest E. and Lottie A. (Wheatley) Crouch. Helen grew up on a farm near King City on Empire Prairie, where she also attended grade school. She graduated from King City High School in 1938. She also attended Northwest Missouri State Teachers College and the University of Colorado, Boulder.

She was united in marriage on January 4, 1944, in Miami, FL, to James Robert Gregory, who preceded her in death on June 11, 2007. Helen and "Bob" were married 63 years.

Helen was mainly a homemaker but also worked as a school teacher at Columbia School, a one-room schoolhouse on Empire Prairie, in the plant protection department at North American Bomber Plant in Kansas City, during World War II, and in the Placement Office at Northwest Missouri State College.

A member of the First United Methodist Church in Maryville for over 50 years, Helen was active in the Deborah Circle and United Methodist Women. She was also a member of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumni Association, P.E.O Chapter L, Faculty Dames at NWMSU, and, as a coach’s wife, spent many, many hours sitting in basketball arenas and football stadiums. She and Bob enjoyed playing golf, traveling, and visiting their extended family. Helen also loved to play bridge with her longtime friends in Maryville.

Survivors include two daughters: Carol (Robert) Schmidt, Jefferson City and Judy (John) Hlawatsch, Lafayette, CO; three grandchildren: Allison (Brad) McCoy, Heather (Jeff) Agee, both of Tampa, FL, and Jennifer Hlawatsch, Lafayette, CO; and four great-grandchildren: Ethan and Blake McCoy and Tilden and Charlotte Agee, of Tampa.

She will be missed by all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who enjoyed listening to her many stories about growing up on a farm during The Great Depression.

In addition to her parents and spouse, she was preceded in death by her beloved brother, George Edward Crouch.

The family asks that memorials be sent to the James Robert Gregory Athletic Scholarship at Northwest Missouri State University, the P.E. O. projects, or the First United Methodist Church, Maryville. Condolences may be left online at www.pricefuneralhomemaryville.com

A celebration of Helen’s life will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2013, 1 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church, 102 Main St. Price Funeral Home, Maryville, is in charge of arrangements

 

009Ellen Elizabeth (Ferguson) Robertson, 92, Parker CO , formerly of Maryville, Mo, died on Thursday, April 4, 2013, at Victorian House Hospice, Parker, CO .

Ellen was born April 11, 1920, the daughter of the late John Allyn and Sadie Elizabeth (Hardy) Ferguson. She married Oliver Robertson October 6, 1937 in Maryville who died March 16, 1991. She then married Dale Lewellen November 10, 1993 in Hot Springs, AR. He preceded her in death March 9, 2011.

She retired from John Coultis Interiors, Wichita,KS, as a seamstress and was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Maryville.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, son Joe Robertson (1-20-1999), brother Forrest Ferguson, sister Vonceile Ferguson, half sister Catherine Swinford, step mother Mable Lisle Nowe, and half brother Phillip Ferguson.

Survivors include grandson Chris Robertson, Parker, Co, sister in laws Norma Ferguson, Rockledge, FL., Donna Robertson, Grant City, MO, and Helen Dredge, Witchita, KS., brother in law Bill Swinford, Franklin Park, Il, and half brother Eugene (Shirley) Ferguson, Melbourne, FL., nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be 10:00 AM, Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at Price Funeral Home Maryville, Missouri with burial following at Miller Cemetery, Denver, MO

 

010Galen West, 67, Maryville Missouri, formerly of Clearmont, Missouri died on Wednesday, April 3, 2013, at St Francis Hospital, Maryville.

Galen was born December 10, 1945 in Maryville, Missouri, son of the late Galen Hubert West and Ella Jane (Wilson) West.

He was a 1964 graduate of West Nodaway High School and was a farmer.

Galen loved animals, swap meets and trips to the Barn Door Opry.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Survivors include his brother James Adrain (Diane) West, Florence, CO, half brother Lowell Dean West, Maryville, an aunt Eileen Chitwood, New Franklin, MO, a niece and nephew and several cousins.

A visitation will be held 9:30-10:30 prior to the funeral service at 10:30 Monday, April 8, 2013 at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville. Burial will be at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Clearmont, Missouri

 

011Thomas G. Henderson, 75 of Maryville, Missouri died Friday, March 29, 2013, at his rural Maryville, Missouri residence.

Born February 22, 1938 in Aberdeen, Idaho, Tom was the son of Clyde Clay and Dorothy May (Jarmin) Henderson. He was one of eight children. Tom married Marjorie Ann (Carr) Carroll January 10, 2008 in Princeton, Missouri.

A high school graduate and a retired shop foreman, Tom was a member of the Laura Street Baptist Church, Maryville, and Missouri Campers On A Mission.

He was preceded in death by a daughter and his parents.

Surviving are his wife Marjorie of their home, son Mike Henderson, and daughters, Marilyn Drebar, Susie Myers and Vicki Jo Falkerson and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

An 11:00 AM memorial service will will be held Thursday, April 4, 2013 at the Laura Street Baptist Church, Maryville

 

012Sherry Gaye Wray, 51 of Maryville, Missouri died on Friday, March 29, 2013, at Heartland Regional Medical Center in Saint Joseph, Missouri.

Sherry was born January 17, 1962 in Maryville, Missouri, the daughter of Dick and Jewell (VanSyoc) Jones.

She was a 1980 graduate of Maryville High School and recieved her BS in Theraputic Recreation from Northwest Missouri State University in 2012. Sherry had worked as a cashier for 20 years at Gray's Truck Stop, Maryville.

Preceding her in death was her mother Jewell Ruth Jones (2/8/2009), grandparents Ralph and Gladys Jones, L.V. and Mary VanSyoc, and two cousins Dennis Jones and Jeanne Jenkins.

Surviving are son, Alex Mitchell (Samantha) Wray, Maryville, brother, Jeffrey Duane (Tammy) Jones, Conception, Missouri, sister, Brenda Sue (Randy Havens) Oppie, La Monte, Missouri, father Dick Jones, Maryville, several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

A Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, April 2, at the First United Methodist Church, Maryville. Interment will be in Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville, MO

 

013Kyle Alan James, 24, Burlington Jct. Missouri died Monday, March 25, 2013.

He was born May 11, 1988 in Maryville to Rodney and Denise Merrigan James.

He was a 2006 graduate of West Nodaway High School in Burlington Jct. and was employed with Farmer Frame and Auto in Quitman, as a paint and body worker.

Kyle was preceded in death by his grandfathers: Jim Merrigan, Larry James and Robert Drummond.

Survivors are his mother and step-father Denise and Donnie Drummond, Burlington Jct.; father and step-mother Rodney and Rhonda James, Maryville; Brother Jason (Roxy) James, Ravenwood; 4 step-sisters: Tiffany Shively, Brandi Shively and Nikkayla Schulte, Maryville and Shelly (Steven) Marriott, Clearmont; step-brother Nathan (Crissy) Drummond, Tarkio; grandmothers Bereneda James, Bethany, Rosalee Merrigan and Scharlene Drummond, both of Maryville and aunts, uncles, several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 pm Thursday, March 28 at Price Funeral Home, Maryville.

Funeral Services will be 1:30 pm Friday, March 29, Price Funeral Home, Maryville.

Burial: Nodaway Memorial Gardens

 

014Paul Alma Hansen, Sr, 87, Skidmore, Missouri died Sunday, March 24, 2013, at Nodaway Nursing Home in Maryville, Missouri.

He was born November 20, 1925, in Lamonte, Missouri to Thomas and Vivian Bailey Hansen.

Paul married Velma Peter March 25, 1944 in Troy Kansas. She preceded him in death January 5, 1999.

On June 5, 2006 Paul and Donna Cummings were united in marriage in Troy, Kansas.

A lifetime farmer, Paul was a member of the Sam Albright American Legion Post #5ll, Skidmore and was a past president of the Nodaway County Farm Bureau.

He served his country in the United States Navy during World War II.

Also preceding him in death were his parents, son-in-law Jackie Lee Appleman (September 15, 2008), two brothers: Keith and Kelmer (Roberta) Hansen and sister Thelma (Charles) Johnson.

Surviving are son, Paul Hansen, Jr (Marjorie) Maryville, 2 daughters, Sherry Flanary (Paul), Maryville and Jean Appleman, Bella Vista, Arkansas; 8 grandchildren; 12 step-grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 6 step-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Cora Hansen Donahoo, Cole Camp, Missouri; 2 step-sons: Rick (Mickie) Cummings and Kent (Cindy) Cummings; 2 step-daughters: Jackie (John) McGee and Julie (Todd) Evans, all of Hamilton, Missouri;

Visitation will be 6:00-7:30 pm Wednesday, March 27 at Price Funeral Home, Maryville

 

015Derald "Bud" Eugene Foster, 84, Graham, Missouri, formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri, died Friday, March 22, 2013, at his home.

Bud was born March 18, 1929, in Chillicothe, Missouri to the late Ephram Hardin and Sara Kathryn (Moore) Foster.

He married Eldora F. (Cox) Foster on August 09, 1952, in Kansas City, Missouri. She preceded him in death December 1, 1973.

He served as a paratrooper in the United States Army from1946 to 1950 during World War II.

Bud was a construction and iron worker for over 30 years, a member of the Labor Local 579, St. Joseph, Tribe of Mic-O-Say, Boy Scouts of America. As a young man he worked for 17 years on the Missouri River as a tugboat deck hand.

Bud is survived by nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Graveside Funeral Services will be 2 PM, Monday, March 25 at the Rose Hill Cemetery, Parnell, Missouri. The funeral procession will be leaving the funeral home at 1:15 PM.

Memorials may be made to SSM Hospice of St. Francis, Maryville, Missouri

 

016A. Lucille (Smith) Godsey, 95, Skidmore, MO went to join her Lord and Savior and beloved husband of 43 years on March 19, 2013 at the home of her daughter after a brief illness.

Lucille was born June 21, 1917 near Fairfax, MO to Almar B. and Carrie D.

(Ruddell) Smith. She had one older brother and a younger sister both deceased. Lucille married Elbert H. Godsey on April 5, 1941 in Omaha, NE. Elbert preceded her in death on August 3, 1984. Four daughters were born of this union.

Lucille lived most of her youth in rural Atchison County near Fairfax. At the young age of fourteen she began driving four head of mules doing field work for her father and neighbors when her older brother was called to serve in World War II. She was a graduate of Daleview High School located in Atchison County Missouri in 1935. Her class was the 17th class to graduate from Daleview, there were 17 in her class and they graduated on the 17th day of May (facts Lucille proudly shared). Lucille attended Northwest Missouri State Teachers College in Maryville, MO for 2 years then taught in one-room schoolhouses in Atchison County until her marriage.

As a couple Lucille and Elbert enjoyed square dancing and pattern ballroom dancing for many years. She was an avid reader, owning many volumes of paperback books. Lucille was a 4-H leader for many years teaching cooking and sewing. She was a member of Skidmore United Methodist Church and the Skidmore Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star serving as Worthy Matron and several other offices. She was an original member of the Merry Moments Bridge Club, playing bridge with the club for the last time on January 18, 2013.

She was an outstanding cook and seamstress. Many in the community and county enjoyed her homemade donuts and cinnamon rolls. She was known as the "Bread Lady" to youth of the Skidmore United Methodist Church as she always made bread and home-churned butter for Bible School. Having 4 daughters she kept busy making all their clothes and the doll clothes. Lucille created many beautiful square dance dresses and evening wear for the dancing she and Elbert did. She enjoyed all kinds of handwork. In the later years knitting and crocheting seemed to be her favorites. Many lucky individuals were the recipients of her hand-made items.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother, Lester B. Smith, Rock Port, MO and sister, Jeanne I. Woerpel, state of CA.

Surviving are daughters Nora (George) Bayless, St. Joseph, MO, RoAnne (Jerry) Solheim, Maryville, MO, Phyllis (Larry) Cole, Union Star, MO, and Karol Godsey, Omaha, NE. Grandchildren Twyla Bayless, St. Joseph, MO, Tanora (David) Earnhardt, Springfield, MO, Brent Sisk, Cainsville, MO, Michelle (Roy) Nolan, St. Joseph, MO, Carrie (Rob) Sparks, Maryville, MO, Scott (Leesa) Cole, St. Joseph, MO. Great-grand children Rachel, Grace, and Molly Earnhardt, Springfield, MO, Kendra (Rodney) Sisk Heller, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Chelsey Sisk, Maryville, MO, Kaylin and Austin Nolan, St. Joseph, MO, Tanner and Garret Sparks, Maryville, MO, Seth Cole, St. Joseph, MO. Great, great grandson Elliott Douglas Heller, Albuquerque, New Mexico. 3 step great grand children, nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 23 at 10:00 a.m. at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville, MO with burial following the service at Hillcrest Cemetery, Skidmore, MO. A visitation will be held at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville, MO from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2013

 

017Ronda Jeanne Wilson, 71, Bolckow, Missouri, passed awayTuesday, March 19, 2013, at Nodaway Nursing Home, Maryville, Missouri.

Ronda was born Friday, October 17, 1941, in Maitland, Missouri to John and Gladys (Keller) Faulk Spangler.

A 1960 graduate of Maryville High School, Ronda married her High School sweetheart William "Joe" Wilson, June 17, 1962, in Maryville, Missouri who preceded her in death.

Ronda was a tooling inspector at Eveready Battery Corporation for over 30 years retiring in 2003.

Ronda was a member of the First Christian Church, Maryville, Missouri.

Ronda lived a full life as a loving wife, caring sister, nurturing mother and supportive grandmother. She was always willing to help others whether they were family or a stranger, no matter the strain it might place on her. For those lucky enough to know her, she will be held in the highest regards and never forgotten as she was loved by many.

Survivors include her children, daughter Rebecca Wilson, Portage, Michigan, son Jeffrey (Jennifer) Wilson, Bolckow, Missouri, a brother Dan Faulk, Maryville, Missouri and grandsons Joseph and Graham Norris, Josh (Destany) Wilson and great grandson London Wilson.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to all the staff at Nodaway Nursing Home for the loving care and compassion they provided. Also, thanks to Asera Care for the recent comfort care.

A visitation will be held 5-7:00 PM Thursday, March 21, 2013 at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville.

Graveside services and burial will be held, 10:30 AM Friday, March 22, 2013 at White Oak Cemetery, Pickering, Missouri. The family will meet at the funeral home and go in procession to the cemetery at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society 7611 State Line Rd. Kansas City, MO 64114 in Ronda's name

 

018Gerald Henry Pedersen, 86 of Conception Junction, Missouri died Wednesday, March 13, 2013, at Heartland Regional Medical Center, Saint Joseph, Missouri.

Gerald was born April 2, 1926 near Conception Junction, Nodaway County, to Peter Christiansen and Augusta Amelia (Mattson) Pedersen. He married Sue Ann Coulter May 11, 1951, at Maryville, Missouri.

He was a 1944 graduate of Guilford High School, a member of the Guilford United Methodist Church, The Tri C American Legion Post #464, Conception Junction, Missouri, and was a farmer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son Donald Cleo Pedersen

(1979), grandson Seth Levi Pedersen (2001), and daughters-in-law Diane Pedersen (2011) and Robin Pedersen (2004), brother Cleo Pedersen, and sister Mildred Nelson.

Surviving are sons Rick Pedersen, Chris Pedersen, Ronnie (Ellen) Pedersen Guilford, MO, Martin (Margaret) Pedersen, Stanberry, MO, David (Diana) Pedersen, and James (Christine) Pedersen, Maryville, MO, and daughter Nancy (Doug) Hilsabeck, Trenton, MO, 23 grandchildren 24 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be 10:30 AM Monday, March 18, 2013 at the Guilford United Methodist Church with burial following the service at the Graves Cemetery, Guilford. A visitation will be 2-4 PM Sunday, March 17, 2013 at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri.

A military service will be conducted at the graveside by the Tri-C American Legion Post #464, Conception Jct., Missouri

 

019John Francis Tobin, 84, born Oct 8, 1928, died Tuesday March 12, 2013. He had been living at home in Maryville until he moved to the Living Community in St. Joseph, MO in January.

John married Carlotta Hantze on Oct 13, 1951. John farmed all his life at Burlington Junction, MO. He owned and operated the 460 acre home farm. He retired in 1999 and they moved to Maryville. A member of St. Gregory Barbarigo Parish, John had been a member of St. Benedict’s Parish in Burlington Junction for many years. He was very active in his community, including Burlington Jct. Kiwanis Club, Nodaway County Extension Council, 4-H, scouts, and girls’ softball coach. John was a member of the Knights of Columbus and was a past Grand Knight and he was past Chairman of the Nodaway County Pork Producers Association. He volunteered for many years on the planning committee for the Tobin Golf Tournament, which contributed funds to St. Francis Hospital in Maryville.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carlotta, in 2006, his parents, Frank and Nora (Kelly) Tobin, and two infant brothers, Kieran and Terrance.

Survivors include his children: Jana Motes, Olathe, KS, Kieran (Jenny) Tobin, Corpus Christi, TX, Marli Tobin, Chicago, IL, Susan Tobin, San Francisco, CA, Mark (Rachel) Tobin, Atlanta, GA, and Paul (Linda) Tobin, Maryville, MO; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Other survivors include his brothers and sister: Father Pat Tobin, Kelly (Irene) Tobin, Maurice (Joan) Tobin, Mary Ellen (Geary+) Mahr, and Father Chuck Tobin.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, March 15, 2013, at St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church, Maryville, with burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Maryville. Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday, March 14, 2013, with Rosary at 7 p.m. at St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church

 

020

Merna Ruth Alkire 81, of Maryville, MO, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2013, at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, with her daughter at her side.

Merna was born on August 29, 1931, in Fairfax, MO, to Melvin Lester and Claudine (Wennihan) Graves, she had lived all her life in northwest Missouri. She was a member and attended the Barnard Christian Church, Barnard, MO.

On February 14, 1953, Merna was united in marriage to Virgil Nyal Alkire in Maryville, MO. They farmed in the Barnard, MO, area until his death in 1981. Merna continued living on the family farm until moving to Maryville 12 years ago.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Stephen Nyal Alkire, in 1973; and her husband Virgil.

Merna worked as a Nurse’s Aid at the Nodaway Nursing Home and Parkdale Manor, Maryville, MO, then retired as activities director at the LaVerna Heights in Savannah, MO. She continued to work for Tiffany In Home Services, of Maryville, until last year.

She is survived by her daughter, Ellen Kay and husband, Duane White, Maryville, MO; her granddaughter, Meva and husband, Monty Williams, Kansas City, MO; great grandchildren, Mikai and MaKaynli Williams, Kansas City, MO; and her brother, Dean Graves, Mt. Vernon, MO.

Memorial services will be at 10:00 AM, Saturday, April 13, 2013, at the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO. A reception for friends will follow the service at the funeral home community room. Cremation has taken place and inurnment will be later at the Barnard Masonic Cemetery, Barnard, MO

 

021

Russell F. Coleman, 88, of Grant City, MO, and formerly of Hopkins, MO, passed from this life on Friday, April 5, 2013, at the Heartland Hospital in St. Joseph, MO.

Russell was born on February 17, 1925, in Hopkins, to Lew and Lola (Gray) Coleman, he lived in that area until moving to a farm northwest of Grant City in 1959.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Bob, Raymond, Floyd (Skinny) and Sherman (Bill) Coleman; and his sisters, Dorothy Kellogg and Maxine Morrison.

Russell proudly served his country during the Korean conflict in the US Army.

Russell was a retired self-employed farmer, and had been a member of the Grant City, MO, American Legion Post #92.

On February 3, 1954, in Ravenwood, MO, Russell was united in marriage to Vivian Marie Auten, she survives of the home.

Other survivors include his daughter, Carlotta (Corky) and husband, Bo DeMott, Sheridan, MO; grandsons, Bradie and wife, Valerie Demott, and Cory DeMott, both of Grant City, MO, and Derry DeMott, Sheridan, MO; 2 sisters, Mary Brand, Ravenwood, MO, and Betty Hardee, Belton, MO; 2 great grandsons, Jake and Jared Simmons, brother in law, Raymond Morrison, and sister in law, Doris Coleman; and very special nieces and nephews who were all very near and dear to him.

Memorial graveside services and inurnment will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, April 13, 2013, at the Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, MO.

Services are under the direction of the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO

 

022

Gustav Richard Rischer, 83, of Maryville, MO, passed away Friday, April 5, 2013, at his home in Maryville.

“Rich”, as he was known for the first 20 years of his life, was born in St. Louis, MO, on September 29, 1929. His parents were Gustav H. and Fern (Jones) Rischer. He attended Mark Twain Elementary School, and graduated from Beaumont High School, both of St. Louis, MO.

While at Beaumont High, Rich lettered in Basketball and Track, and was on the State Champion basketball team in 1946-47.

Following high school he attended the University of Illinois and earned a freshman basketball letter. He then transferred to the University of Missouri to be closer to his future bride, Katie.

On March 31, 1951, Gus, as he was now known, was united in marriage to Katherine Ruth Christian, in St. Louis, MO.

A US Air Force Veteran, Gus served during the Korean Conflict. He was stationed at March Air Force Base, in California. Gus was active in the base basketball team, and was named to the 1st Team, all Air Force Volleyball Team in 1952. After his enlistment, Gus went to work for Mobil Oil Company in Santa Maria, CA. He also played on the Santa Maria Golden Dukes Semi-Pro Basketball Team.

In 1954, he and Katie decided to further their education and enrolled at Pepperdine College in Los Angeles, CA. Gus graduated in 1956 with a B.A. in Education. He then taught at Chaffee Union High School in Ontario, CA, and continued his education. He received his Master’s Degree from California State University, in Los Angeles.

His work continued in public education in the Los Angeles, CA, area until a call from another Pepperdine Alumnus, Richard New, about teaching at Northwest Missouri State University, in Maryville. The family moved to Maryville in 1968, onto the farm north of Maryville that the family still owns.

At Northwest, Gus started as an Instructor and was promoted through the years to Associate Professor and served as Chairman of the Department of Psychology, Sociology and Counseling from 1984 until his retirement in 1991. He was an active faculty member and served on the Athletic Council, the AIDS Task Force, and New Faculty Assist Team, as well as the Recruitment Committee.

His memberships included the American Association of Counseling and Development, Missouri School Counselors Association, Northwest Missouri State Teachers Association, and the Phi Delta Kappa. He was appointed to the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging in 1991, and was a member of the Missouri Advisory Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Gus received his final ranking of Professor, Emeritus, Psychology, on August 1, 1991.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John (Jack) W. Rischer in 1992; and his wife, Katie, in 1989; and granddaughter, Grace Ann Rischer, in 1999.

Survivors are his sons, Gregory Rischer, Maryville, MO, Dr. Jon Rischer, Columbia, MO, and Bradley Rischer, Kansas City, MO; 3 grandchildren, Christian, Audrey, and Brayden Rischer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM, on Saturday, April 13, 2013, at the St. Gregory’s Barbarigo Catholic Church, in Maryville, MO. The burial will be in the Nodaway Memorial Garden, Maryville.

The family will receive friends from 6-8:00 PM, Friday, April 12, 2013, at the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville.

Military services at the cemetery will be conducted by members of the Missouri Military Honors Detail, and members of the James Edward Gray, American Legion Post 100, Maryville

 

023Lois June Boarts 89, of Maryville, MO, passed away Thursday March 28, 2013 at the Nodaway Nursing Home, in Maryville, Missouri. She was born June 6, 1923 in Savannah, Missouri to Mary Edith (Sollars) and Edward Dewitt Reynolds. She was a homemaker, and a Christian. She enjoyed embroidery, playing bingo in her later years, and she also enjoyed her bible studies and her adult basic education classes. Lois is preceded in death by her parents, 1st husband Milo Howard Payne, 2nd husband Lyle Edward Boarts, two sons, Terry Lee Payne and Mark Edward Payne, two brothers, Harold Lee Reynolds and Edward Allen Reynolds, and one sister, Mary Esther Leasure. Survivors include a son Robert Michael Payne and wife Carol Ann of Maryville, MO., two daughters, Mary Elizabeth Lahiff and Cora Marie Barber both of Atlantic Beach, Fl. A brother Phillip Duane Reynolds and wife Virginia, of Pickering, MO, nine grandchildren, Erin (Monty) Johanning of Sioux Falls, SD, Michael James (Beth) Payne of Inwood, IA, Tara Marie (Phil) Mueller, of Sioux Falls, SD, Caitlin Maureen Payne of Ames, IA, Travis Lee (Samantha) Payne of Kansas City, MO, William Matthew Payne of Maryville, MO, Shannon Jo (Joshua) Chambers of Jacksonville, FL, Angela Marie Catone of Derby, CT, and Christopher David Macki of Marquette, MI, eleven great grandchildren, Taylor, Jade, Cadence, and Sophie Payne, Aiden, Logan and Elena Johanning, Milo Mueller and a new great grand daughter on the way, Jocelyn and Grayson Chambers, as well as several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 AM Monday, April 1, 2013 at the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri. The family will receive friends from 5-7 PM Sunday at the funeral home. The interment will be at the White Oak Cemetery, Pickering, MO.

 

024William Robert “Billy Bob” Thomas was born in Hamburg, Iowa on July 17, 1946 to V. Max and Virginia “Jenny” (Kirk) Thomas. He attended school in Tarkio, and then graduated from Rock Port High School.

 

On March 5, 1967 he married Janet E. Hughes, and they became parents of two children. They later divorced.

 

Billy Bob worked as an electrician, farmer, and also as a bulldozer operator. He moved to Texas for a few years in the early 1970’s before returning to Rock Port.

 

Billy Bob passed away on Friday, April 12, 2013 at a Tarkio healthcare facility.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents.

 

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Billy and Cindy Thomas, and daughter Tricia Thomas, all of Rock Port; brother, Max Lee Thomas of Rock Port; sisters and brothers-in-law, Linda and Tom Erickson of Coin, Iowa and Pam and Roger Harris of Lincoln, Nebraska; five grandchildren, Brentlee Thomas, Tyler and his wife Kayla Thomas, Jordan Thomas, and Christian and Matthew Hance; and nieces and nephews.

 

Billy Bob was a member of the First Lutheran Church. He enjoyed woodworking.

Services will be held Wednesday morning at 10:00 am at the First Lutheran Church in Rock Port. Family will greet friends following the services. A private family inurnment will be held at Greenhill Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the William R. Thomas Memorial Fund, to be donated to a local charity

 

025Donald Francis Henggeler, 54, Maryville, Missouri, died April 27, at his home in Maryville.

Donald was born September 19, 1958, in Maryville to Vincent William and Anna Agatha McQuinn Henggeler.

A 1977 graduate of Jefferson C-123 High School, Conception Jct., Missouri, he was a Forge Technician at Federal Mogul Corporation, Maryville.

He married Marilyn Sue Ginther August 16, 1986, in Stanberry, Missouri.

Donald was a member of the St. Gregory Catholic Church, Maryville, Knights of Columbus, Stanberry and enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and his family.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Stephen Henggeler.

Survivors include his wife Marilyn Henggeler; children: Sarah and Matthew Henggeler, all of the home in Maryville; four brothers: Raymond (Geneva) Henggeler, Ravenwood, Missouri, James (Cathy) Henggeler, Guilford, Missouri, Michael (Anita) Henggeler, Ravenwood, Missouri and Martin (Kim) Henggeler, Barnard, Missouri; sister, Teresa (Greg) Stuart, Stanberry, Missouri; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A public and family rosary will be held 3:00 pm, Tuesday, April 30 at St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church, Maryville.

Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 pm Tuesday, also at the church. A Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 pm following the visitation.

Mass of Christian Burial is 11:00 am, Wednesday, May 1, at St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church, with burial at St. Mary's Cemetery, Maryville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to an Education Fund for Don's children and sent to Marilyn at 27650 State Highway U, Maryville, MO 64468

 

026Dr. F. Patrick (Pat) Wynne, 74, Maryville, died Saturday April 27, 2013. He was born July 13, 1938 in Joplin, Missouri to Dr. Francis, and Carmen (Everitt) Wynne and spent much of his early life in Baxter Springs, Kansas. His family later moved to Lawrence, Kansas where he graduated from high school in 1956. After serving two years in the United States Navy, Dr. Wynne attended Pittsburg State University for two years and completed his B.S. degree at the University of Tulsa. He received his M.S. from the University of Missouri, Kansas City and a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri, Columbia. Dr. Wynne was a professor in the Biology Department at Northwest Missouri State University from 1972 until his retirement in 2000. He served in the Missouri National Guard and was a member of the Elks Club.

He married Johanne Windle in 1965 and the couple later divorced. Pat was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Milo E. Wynne. He is survived by his former wife, his three children; Stephanie (Mike) Grier, Leawood, Kansas, F. Patrick Wynne II, Louisburg, Kansas and Rebecca Wynne, Maryville; grandchildren, William and Patrick Grier, Leawood, Kansas; Anna, Katy and Meah Schommer, Maryville; sister-in-law, Margaret Wynne, and nieces and nephews Tom, Bridgett, Milo, Laurie, Ted and Terry. Dr. Wynne will be greatly missed by his family, friends, colleagues and former students.

Dr. Wynne's body has been cremated under the direction of Price Funeral Home, Maryville. A celebration of life will be held May 11 at his home in Maryville, MO. The family requests that memorial donations be sent to Hospice at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, MO

 

027After a brief illness and brave fight Gordon Lemar, 78, Graham, Missouri, passed away peacefully Monday, April 22, 2013, at Laverna Village Nursing Home, Savannah, Missouri with his family at his side.

Gordon was born April 7, 1935, in Craig, Missouri to Russell Milton and Frankie Lucille (Wickiser) Lemar.

A high school graduate of Pickett High School, St. Joseph, he attended Northwest Missouri State University and was a farmer in the Graham community for his lifetime. Gordon enjoyed playing cards, attending activities with his grandchildren, tractor pulls, snow mobiling, and dancing.

He liked to hear and tell a good joke. He loved farming and his cattle and calves.

He married Charlotte Fae Fuston on March 24, 1957, in Graham, Missouri. Charlotte preceded Gordon in death January 20, 2012.

Preceding Gordon in death were his wife, his parents, and a sister Phyllis Tiedeman.

Survivors include son Scott (Cindy) Lemar, Graham, daughter Lori (Kip) Beer, Kansas City, MO, grandchildren Lauren (Mike) Shoener, Zach and Frankie Lemar, sisters Rita Lea Heitman, Smithville, MO, and Rhonda (Roger) Messner, Graham, brothers and sisters in law, nieces, nephews, and cousins

A visitation will be 6:00 - 8:00 PM, Thursday, April 25, 2013, at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville.

Funeral Services will be 10:00 AM, Friday, April 26, 2013, at the Graham United Methodist Church, with burial following in the Prairie Home Cemetery, Graham.

Memorials may be made to the Gordon and Charlotte Lemar Memorial Scholarship Fund, % Nodaway Holt R-7 School, 318 South Taylor, Graham, Missouri 64455 in Gordon's name

 

028Martha Elinor Switzer Sisk Auffert passed away from natural causes on April 17, 2013 in her home in Sutter Creek, CA at age 92.

Martha was born on a sugar beet farm near Wellington, Colorado on October 6, 1920 to Hazel Claire and Clifford Daniel Switzer. Her sister, La Donna Claire, was four years older. She rode her pony to school, and as her parents didn’t have any boys, she helped her father in the fields.

During her life, Martha experienced many changes in the world, from horse-drawn carriages to iPads, but she said that she thought the most important changes she saw were the advent of the car and of electricity.

When Martha was 15 years old, her family moved from Colorado to a new farm in Worth County, Missouri. One day their neighbors, the Sisks, came over to her family’s farm with their thrashing machine, and that’s when she met her high school sweetheart, Gale Sisk. They were married on March 16, 1941.

Martha and Gale had two daughters, Dixie Lynn and Cinda Irene. The Sisk family managed a 1,000-acre farm and were renowned for their herd of Hereford cattle. But in 1949, when Dixie was two years old and Cinda was three weeks old, Gale was on his way home from a cattle sale with his parents and aunt when their car was struck by a drunk driver, and all four family members in the car were killed instantly.

After this, Martha moved to Grant City, Missouri and later to Maryville, Missouri to raise her girls. She was a businesswoman and managed her 250-acre farm near Maryville. In the male-dominated business world of the mid-20th century, Martha was a pioneer as a single mother working to support her daughters. She was the ultimate role model of a strong, independent woman, and always knew the right thing to do in any situation.

Martha became a Christian at an early age, and throughout her adult life was a valued member in the women’s clubs of the Grant City Christian Church and later the Sutter Creek Methodist Church. She joined the 14th Emerald Chapter of the #29 Order of the Eastern Star, the same chapter where her mother was a member, and they both received their 50-Year Star Pins.

In 1976-’77, Martha, Dixie, and Cinda were all married within 12 months of each other: Cinda to Stuart Bowers, Dixie to David Camardo, and Martha to Francis Auffert.

Martha loved to dance, and Francis was a great dancing partner. They had a wonderful life together for 14 months, living on his Windy Hill farm near Parnell, Missouri and traveling the U.S. together. Martha became a lifelong mentor to Francis’s daughter Joyce. But then Francis’s dormant cancer returned, and he passed away in 1978.

Martha moved to Northern California in 1984 to help raise Dixie and David’s twin daughters, Danielle and Davina. She instilled in them strong values, showing them to take control of their lives, to be conscientious, and to take responsibility for their actions.

She moved to Dallas, Texas in 2004 to spend time with Cinda, and then back to Sutter Creek, California in 2011. She weathered the many changing seasons of her life with unflinching strength and courage—a true woman for all seasons.

Martha is survived by her daughters Cinda Bowers and Dixie Camardo; her son-in-law David Camardo; her grand-daughters Danielle and Davina Camardo; her stepchildren Joyce Smith and Eugene and James Auffert; her step-grandchildren Teri Mamola, Kirk Bowers, Victoria Tomasik, and Keith Camardo; and her brother-in-law Wendell Sisk and his wife Shirley.

She is preceded in death by Gale Sisk, Verga and Merle Sisk, Hazel and Clifford Switzer, La Donna and Charles West, Milo McQuigg, and Francis Auffert.

A special thank you to Hospice of Amador for their devoted care and support. Donations may be made in her memory to the Grant City Christian Church at 501 South High Street, Grant City, MO, 64456. A graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 4 at 10:30 AM at the Grant City Cemetery in Missouri

 

029James Duane Royer was born June 26, 1978 in Omaha, Nebraska, the son of Jay Duane and Rhonda Kay (Johnson) Royer. He passed away on Tuesday evening, April 23, 2013 at Heartland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, Missouri surrounded by his family and friends, at the age of 34 years, 9 months and 27 days.
Jim grew up in Essex and graduated from Essex High School in 1996. He later attended Wyoming Tech for auto mechanics and later Iowa Western Community College where he studied computer science and pre-engineering. He worked several jobs as a welder and machine operator, the most recent at American Hydraulics in Red Oak. He was a member of the Essex Fire and Rescue and the Essex Presbyterian Church. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, mushroom hunting and building large campfires. He also enjoyed NASCAR racing and recently took an interest in gardening. Jim’s true love was spending time with his family and many friends.
He was preceded in death by three uncles, Dave Franks, Randy Johnson and John Johnson.
Survivors include his wife, Lisa Royer of Essex, Iowa; step children, Tyler Burns, Aaron Burns and Regan Marie Burns all of Essex, Iowa; two step grandchildren, Hayden Sauvain and Evan Rice; his furry, four legged girls, Mollie, Katie and Faith; his parents, Jay and Rhonda Royer of Blue Eye, Missouri; his sister, Edi Royer and Jesse Bond of Essex, Iowa; his mother-in-law, Judy “Shorty” Powers of Shenandoah, Iowa; his father-in-law, John Powers and his wife Kathy of Red Oak, Iowa; two sisters-in-law, Trisa Powers and Steve Alexander of Shenandoah, Iowa, Rhonda Smith and her husband Kent of Cherokee, Iowa; gomma’s and coppa’s Lynn and Mary Lou Johnson and Bill and Cleo Royer all of Essex, Iowa; aunts and uncles, Peg Franks of Essex, Iowa, Jan Cloepfil and her husband Jim of Shenandoah, Iowa, Ken Royer and his wife Joni of Essex, Iowa, Howie Johnson and his wife Christy of Essex, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa; Essex Cemetery

 

030Delmar Ivan Skinner was born August 29, 1927 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of Ivan Edward and Grace Emma (Manifold) Skinner. He passed away on Tuesday evening, April 16, 2013 at the Tabor Manor Care Center in Tabor, Iowa at the age of 85 years, 7 months and 17 days.
Delmar grew up in the Shenandoah area and attended country school through the eighth grade and later graduated from high school. Following high school, he served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he farmed his entire working life, farming in the Stanton area until he retired, and then he moved to Shenandoah. He enjoyed reading, collecting cast iron toys and decorative plates and traveling with his parents. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Shenandoah.
He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents and a sister, Josephine Lillie.
Survivors include many nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa; Rose Hill / Shenandoah Cemetery

031Donnie Lee McCoy was born May 19, 1940 on a farm near Essex, Iowa, the 9th of 10 children of Harley and Pearl (Kimpton) McCoy. He passed away late Friday evening, April 5, 2013 at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska after a six month battle with cancer at the age of 72 years, 10 months and 16 days.
Donnie was raised on a farm and his family later moved into Clarinda. As a teenager he worked for Anson Smiley as a hired man on the farm. He graduated from Clarinda High School in 1959. On April 23, 1960, Donnie was united in marriage to Rosalie Finlay. This union was blessed with four children, Tammy, Angie, Jim and Jeff.
He worked for Werts Locker in Clarinda for several years before he left to work for Farmaster in Shenandoah. In 1970 he purchased McGuire Locker in Northboro. He owned and operated McCoy Locker from 1970 until 2006. In addition to being a small business owner, he wore many hats. He was a past Coin Fire Chief, a Page County Deputy Reserves, president of the Iowa Meat Processors and treasurer of the IAMO Telephone Company. In 1997 he became the Page County Sanatorium, which he was still employed as up to his death. For many years while living in Northboro he was the mayor. During this time he led the town to get hard surfaced streets, a working ball field, a new town hall and he lit many fireworks at 4th of July celebrations among others. He was a member of the Northboro United Methodist Church and enjoyed fishing, camping, golfing and gardening. In the later years, he became quite the canner of his gardening crops.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Paul, Lowell, Roger and Frank; sisters, Dorothy Scott and Elsie Larson.
Survivors include his children, Tammy Braymen and her husband Glen of Shenandoah, Iowa, Angie Morris and her husband Scott of Fairfield, Iowa, Jim McCoy of Northboro, Iowa, Jeff McCoy of Coin, Iowa; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren with one on the way; brothers, Jerry, Robert and Glenn; along with many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa;

 

032Randy Butt was born October 20, 1953 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of Kenneth William Adam and Jacquelyn Delores (Bangs) Butt. He passed away on Friday morning, April 5, 2013 at his home in Shambaugh, Iowa at the age of 59 years, 5 months and 15 days.
Randy grew up in the Northboro area and attended school through the fourth grade. His family then moved to College Springs and he attended school in Braddyville through the sixth grade. Randy attended Jr. High and High School at South Page and graduated from South Page High School in 1972. On August 16, 1974 he was united in marriage to Carol Yaple and they were blessed with a son, Greg. He was a carpenter his entire working life starting out working for John Bayless in Shenandoah and eventually having his own company. He enjoyed cooking, especially grilling and smoking meat. His true love was spending time with his family and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his son, Greg Butt and his wife Tisha of Clarinda, Iowa; a brother, Bruce Butt and his wife Jean of Shambaugh, Iowa; a sister, Suzi Livengood and her husband Jim of Dixon, Missouri; grandchildren, Taylor Owens and Trey Kuipers of Clarinda, Iowa; along with many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa - Maple Hill Cemetery, College Springs, Iowa

 

033Samuel Arthur McComb was born April 3, 1920 near Coin, Iowa, the son of William John and Anna (Walker) McComb. He passed away on Wednesday morning, February 20, 2013 at Elm Heights Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa at the age of 92 years, 10 months and 17 days.
Art grew up in the Coin area and graduated from Coin High School in 1936. On February 3, 1940, Art was united in marriage to Wilda Geraldine Gillispie in Atlantic, Iowa. This union was blessed with three sons, Charles Dee, Jerel and Robert.
Art was a farmer for many years and owned two restaurants in Red Oak, Iowa and another one in Arizona. He was a member of the Essex Presbyterian Church and the Farm Bureau. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, air boating and traveling after his retirement. Art’s true love was his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Geraldine; his son, Robert; and four sisters, Dorothy Vawters, Ruth Miles, Ruby Boehm and an infant sister; two brothers, Merle McComb and Raymond McComb.
Survivors include his sons, Dee McComb and his wife Sheryl of Shenandoah, Iowa, Jerel McComb and his wife Gloria of Essex, Iowa; daughter-in-law, Nancy McComb of Shenandoah, Iowa; grandchildren, Jeremy McComb of Essex, Iowa, Tammy Brand and her husband Roger of New Virginia, Iowa, Brian McComb and his wife Regina of Aurora, Colorado, Melissa Whitcomb and her husband Dennis of Portland, Oregon, Tom McComb and his wife Karen of Portland, Oregon, Adam Lagerquist and his wife Jody of Hugo, Minnesota; step grandchildren, Bobbi Crowell of Essex, Iowa, Donelle Baldwin and her husband Cliff of Nodaway, Iowa, Machelle Stream and her husband Shawn of Norwalk, Iowa; along with many other relatives and friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa - Polsley Cemetery, Yorktown, Iowa

034Edward Ernest Rose Anderson was born August 11, 1935 near Farragut, Iowa, the son of Emil and Ragnhild “Betty” Elizabeth (Lindh) Anderson. He passed away on Monday evening, March 18, 2013 at the Shenandoah Medical Center in Shenandoah, Iowa at the age of 77 years, 7 months and 7 days.
Ed grew up in the Farragut area and graduated from Farragut High School in 1954. Following high school he attended Northwest Missouri State University and then served in the United States Army for two years in Germany. On October 6, 1957 he was united in marriage to Janice Ackerberg in Essex, Iowa. This union was blessed with four children, Richard, Susan, Robert and David.
Ed worked for Safeway Stores for 14 years in Omaha and Shenandoah. He then worked for Eaton Corporation for 25 years. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Shenandoah, the Kiwanis Club, Elks Lodge, served as a Chamber Ambassador and served one term as a Councilman-at-Large for the City of Shenandoah. He enjoyed collecting toy tractors, bowling, golf and a fan of country music. He also loved the outdoors whether it was camping, golfing or working in his garden at the farm. Ed’s true love was his family and many friends made over many years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Jean Gidlow and Irene Bird; and a granddaughter, Andrea Needham.
Survivors include his wife, Jan of Shenandoah; his children, Richard Anderson and his wife Jenny of Geneva, Illinois, Susan Needham and her husband Dan of Omaha, Nebraska, Robert Anderson and his wife Shani of Cheyenne, Wyoming, David Anderson and his wife Deanna of Waukee, Iowa; nine grandchildren, Laura Needham and her fiancé Uri Haynes, Anna Brockman and her husband Trent, Claire, Emma and Sam Anderson,Kelsey and Kalie Anderson, Duncan and Brantly Anderson; two great grandchildren, Lenox and Zoe Haynes; along with many other relatives and friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa - Rose Hill, Shenandoah, Iowa

 

035Charles Kevin Kluver was born July 11, 1949 in Denison, Iowa, the son of Carl Emil and Lois Mae (Steinhoff) Kluver. He passed away on Friday morning, March 8, 2013 at the Good Samaritan Society in Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 63 years, 7 months and 25 days.
Chuck grew up in Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School in 1967. He later received his bachelor’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri. On June 8, 2002 he married Linda Fish on a farm in Taylor County, Iowa.
Chuck loved the outdoors whether it was hunting, fishing or camping. He also loved music and played the washboard in a band.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Dr. F.T. and Isabelle Fish; his grandparents, Herman and Clara Steinhoff, Carl and Emma Kluver, Charles and Florence Miller; his brother, Ross Kluver; and a niece, Brooklyn Olson.
Survivors include his wife, Linda Kluver of Red Oak, Iowa; his children, Josh Kluver, Tim Pfeiffer and his wife Leigh of Stanton, Iowa, Amy Gilbride and her husband Ryan of Lincoln, Nebraska, Tom Pfeiffer and his wife Courtney of Omaha, Nebraska, Laura LaPrell and her husband Matt of Phoenix, Arizona; his parents, Carl and Lois Kluver of Essex, Iowa; a sister, Joan Olson of Essex, Iowa; brothers and sisters-in-law, Paul and Kay Fish, Lori and Roy Ellis, Mark & Diane Fish, Joel and Marcia Fish, Kevin & Denise Fish, Lois and Cory Hall, Bill and Debbie Fish, Lisa and Kevin Shawgo, Dale and Wendy Fish; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa - Smithland, Iowa Cemetery

 

036Agnes Grue Bonnes was born October 25, 1914 in Miles City, Montana, the daughter of Carl and Cecilie (Martinsen) Grue. She passed away on Monday morning, February 18, 2013, at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah at the age of 98 years, 3 months and 24 days.
Agnes moved to Omaha as a child and graduated from Benson High School in 1932. Following high school she attended the Van Sant Business School and one year at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in the home economics department. She worked for Woodmen of the World for four years. On April 2, 1938 she was united in marriage to William H. Bonnes in Omaha, Nebraska. This union was blessed with 5 children; Henry, Stanley, Ruth Ann, Oran and Mary.
In 1938, Bill and Agnes moved to Shenandoah where she had a very active life. She loved music. She directed the children’s youth choir at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, played the organ for the Community of Christ Church and taught piano lessons for over 40 years. At one time, Agnes had 62 piano students a week that she taught. She did this and raised her five children without indoor plumbing until 1966. She also owned and operated the Hilltop Health Food Store from 1971 until 2010. She loved her organic gardens and was a 70 year member of the Happy Homemaker Neighborhood Club. She was also a member of the Toast Masters Club in Shenandoah, the Fremont County Farm Bureau, the Fremont County Historical Society and Shenandoah Historical Museum, and was an active member of the Community of Christ Church in Shenandoah.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her children, Ruth Ann Bonnes in 1954, Oran Fredric Bonnes in 1994, Henry Marvin Bonnes in 2009; a brother, Charles Grue in 2001 and a granddaughter, Corie Lane Bonnes in 1972.
Survivors include her children, Stanley Bonnes and his wife Jan of Columbia, Missouri, Mary Cecilie Brass and her husband Gene of Lincoln, Nebraska; 12 grandchildren, Todd, Tami, Tara, Tasha, Tiane, Heather, Holly, Heidi, Jason, Jared, Trevor and Brianna; 21 great grandchildren; along with many other relatives and friends

Kirsch Funeral Chapel, Shenandoah, Iowa - private burial