This month was once part of a short lived Allison archive. After the third month the Allison paper discontinued publishing obituaries on its website and its sister paper Clarksville took over. In 2007, the papers were sold to Mid-America Publishing Corporation. The Clarksville site was discontinued. It 2009, it was discovered that the newspapers had combined their websites like so many of their sister papers. So, now comes the combined Allison-Clarksville Archive.

Abel J. Schrage

June 2, 2000

Abel Johnson Schrage, 90, of Greene, formerly of Bristow, died on Tuesday, May 23, 2000, at the Liebe Care Center in Greene.

Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, May 26, 2000, at the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church at Vilmar, rural Greene, with Pastor Jerry Laehn officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Florence Stirling Vieker accompanying the processional hymn, “Rock of Ages”, “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art”. Flower attendants were Lois Rover, Dee Liddle and Carolyn Rover.

Casket bearers were Henry Rover, Clinton Schrage, Randy Liddle, Donald Schrage, Paul Rover and Dennis Schrage. Honorary casket bearers were the grandchildren of Abel J. Schrage. Interment was in the Lynwood Cemetery in Clarksville. The Reid’s Funeral Chapel of Greene was in charge of the arrangements.

Abel was born on December 16, 1909 in Jackson Township, Butler County, Iowa, a son of John and Minnie (Lottman) Schrage. He was baptized on March 16, 1910, at the Ebenezer Lutheran Church at Butler Center and confirmed at the St. John Lutheran Church in Clarksville. As a young man he began farming near Butler Center.

On May 15, 1934, he was united in marriage to Anna Hinders at the St. John Lutheran Church in Clarksville. They farmed in the Clarksville area until her death on March 10, 1939. 

He was united in marriage to Elva Emma Rover on December 16, 1945, at the St. John Lutheran Church at Vilmar. They farmed in the rural Bristow area until 1979, when they retired and moved into town. Following his retirement he enjoyed fishing, and going to rummage sales and swap meets. Elva died on November 27, 1995. 

Abel continued to live in Bristow until entering the nursing home. Abel was a member of the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church at Vilmar and a former member of the Farm Bureau.

Living family members include a daughter, Wilma and her husband, Lloyd Hodge of Cedar Falls; one son, Paul and his wife, Janice Schrage of Marble Rock; one step-son, Kenneth and his wife, Diane Rover of Greene; three grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; eleven step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Elizabeth and her husband, Lawrence Liddle of Plainfield; two brothers, Albert Schrage of Clarksville and William and his wife, Genevieve Schrage of Waverly; and a brother-in-law, Lester Rover of Greene. 

He was preceded in death by his two wives; one grandson, Michael Schrage; a sister, Rena Rover and a brother, John Schrage.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Edith K. Huisinga

June 2, 2000
 
Edith Kathryn Huisinga, age 104, of Aplington, died on Wednesday, May 24, 2000, at 4:00 a.m., at the Maple Manor Village of natural causes. She reached the age of 104 years, 1 month and 1 day. Edith became a resident of the Maple Manor Care Center in Aplington, on July 27, 1992, because of her failing health.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Friday, May 26, at the Aplington Baptist Church, with Rev. Marlin Mohrman officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Becky Ostercamp accompanying soloist, Beth Uhlenhopp singing “Find Us Faithful” and the congregational hymns of “Because He Lives” and “My Faith Has Found A Resting Place”.

Casket bearers were Howard Huisinga, Tim Huisinga, Daryl Uhlenhopp, Randy Huisinga, Wesley Huisinga and Peter Hedstrom. Interment was in the Pleasant View Cemetery, rural Aplington. The Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg was in charge of the arrangements.

Edith was born the daughter of Hans and Mary Falb Keiser, on April 23, 1896 in Elgin, Iowa. She received her education and graduated from the Elgin High School. Edith continued her education and attended the Iowa State Teachers College and received her Degree in Education. She began teaching in West Union, Iowa, and later in Elkader, Iowa, for several years.  

On September 5, 1925, Edith Keiser was united in marriage with Claude Huisinga in Elgin. They made their home on a farm near Aplington. In 1925, Edith retired from teaching to begin her marriage and later start a family.

She was a loving wife and homemaker. To this union they were blessed with three sons, Paul, Gordon and Myrlin. In 1955, they moved into the town of Aplington.

Edith was an active member of the Aplington Baptist Church, where she was a member of the Benevolent Society. She taught Sunday School for many years and was the Superintendent of the Cradle Roll. Edith enjoyed reading and knitting and she especially liked socializing with her friends.

Edith was preceded in death by her husband, Claude Huisinga on December 25, 1982; one son, Myrlin Huisinga on December 29, 1993; her parents, Hans and Mary Keiser; and two brothers, Harry and Julius Keiser.

Edith is survived by her two sons, Paul Huisinga and his wife, Lucy of Aplington and Gordon Huisinga and his wife, Betty of Winburne, Pennsylvania; one daughter-in-law, Burdell Huisinga of Aplington; nine grandchildren; and twenty three great-grandchildren.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Evelyn P. Behnke

June 2, 2000

Evelyn Phyllis Behnke, 75, of Greene, died on Thursday, May 25, 2000, at the North Iowa Mercy Health Center in Mason City.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Saturday, May 27, 2000, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greene, with pastor Galen Smith officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Linda Meek accompanying vocalists, The Reynolds Family singing “On Eagle Wings”, “The Lord’s Prayer” and “How Great Thou Art”. Flower attendants were Gertie Marsh and Loretta Miller.

Casket bearers were Chris Behnke, Ryan Behnke, Pat Behnke, Tony Larson, Rick Behnke and Kurt Behnke. Ushers were Patrick McRoberts and Galen Miller. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. The Reid’s Funeral Chapel in Greene was in charge of the arrangements.

Evelyn was born on December 22, 1924 in Union township, Floyd County, Iowa, a daughter of Henry and Marguerite (Thomas) Ewald. She received her education in the Marble Rock Public School, graduating in 1942. She attended the Hamilton Business College in Waterloo and began working for the State Bank in Rockford, Iowa.

On October 14, 1944, she was united in marriage to Ralph Dale Behnke at her parents home in rural Marble Rock. To this union were born three children.

They farmed east of Greene until 1980, when they moved to their present home. Evelyn had a talent for crocheting, which she enjoyed at home and while riding in the car on their trips to Arizona for the winter. She was very grateful for the many fishing trips to Canada with her family. She participated in the morning exercise class and enjoyed having coffee with the ladies in that group.

She was baptized and became a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Greene on January 18, 1948. She was an active member of the U.P.W. and a member of the Packard Club and the Greene Women’s Club.

Evelyn will be sadly missed by her husband of 55 years, Ralph of Greene; her children and their spouses, Clayton and Cora Lee Behnke of Gretna, Nebraska, Michael and Terri Behnke of Greene and Marcia and Bob Larson of Dougherty; seven grandchildren, Chris Behnke, Pat and his wife, Kerry Behnke, Rick Behnke, Jamie Larson, Tony Larson, Ryan Behnke and Kurt Behnke; two great-grandchildren, Dylan Frascht and Greer Behnke; three sisters and their spouses, Lorraine and Maynard Kingery of Charles City, Maxine and Albert Kranz of Mason City and Marlys and Richard Reynolds of Sumner; and her step-mother, Madge Ewald of Charles City.

She was preceded in death by her parents.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Johanne B. Wilts

June 2, 2000

Johanne “Jo” B. Wilts, 81, of Shell Rock, died on Saturday, May 27, 2000, at the Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, from complications of a stroke. 

Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, May 31, 2000, at the Trinity Reformed Church in Allison, with Pastor Steve Petroelje officiating. Special music was provided by pianist, Denise Abbas accompanying vocalists, Greta Eberline and Joel Sult singing “Precious Lord” and “One Day At A Time” and the congregational hymns of “How Great Thou Art” and “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”. The ushers were Eugene Maifeld and Charles Smith.

Pallbearers were Dave Engelhardt, Jeff Myers, Harris Reiter, William Mueller, Dave Peters and Robert Wilts. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery in Shell Rock. The Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Shell Rock was in charge of the arrangements.

Johanne Jaspers, was born on August 2, 1918 in Jefferson Township, Butler County, Iowa, the daughter of Ben and Grace (Schoon) Jaspers. She attended country school in Jefferson Township and was a graduate of the Shell Rock High School Class of 1936. Following her education, Johanne taught in country schools in the Shell Rock area for the next five years.

Johanne was united in marriage to Otto Wilts on August 17, 1940 in Dubuque, Iowa. The couple established their home on the home place, six miles west of Shell Rock, where they lived and farmed for the next 35 years. In 1975 they moved to their present home in Shell Rock.

Johanne was a past member of the Bethel Christian Reformed Church west of Shell Rock, where she helped with Bible School and attended Ladies Aid. In 1957, they joined the Trinity Reformed Church in Allison, where Johanne was active with Guild as long as health permitted.

Over the years, Johanne made many noodles for the chicken soup suppers held at Trinity Reformed Church. She was also a 50 year member of the Jefferson Community Club.

Johanne cherished all of her special friends, and also enjoyed fishing, playing cards and gardening. She was an inspiration and a mentor to all of her nieces and nephews. She shared her talents, her positive attitude and her love for the Lord with many people.

Johanne is survived by her husband of 59 years, Otto Wilts of Shell Rock; a sister, Gertie Henley of Shell Rock; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Minnie Hemingson; and a brother, Ben Jaspers.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Augusta M. "Gussie" Kluiter

June 23, 2000

Augusta M. "Gussie" Kluiter, 85, died on Sunday, June 11, 2000, at 1:26 a.m., at the Allison Care Center in Allison, of natural causes. She was born on March 19, 1915 and reached the age of 85 years, 2 months and 23 days.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, June 14, 2000, at the Calvary Baptist Church in Parkersburg, with Rev. Mark Sherwood, former Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Greene, officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Ann Kruse accompanying the soloist, Diane Hoelscher singing “My Savior First of All” and the congregational hymns of “The Old Rugged Cross” and “To God Be The Glory”.

Casket bearers were David Cassmann, Wayne Busma, Don Kluiter, Dennis Cassmann, LeRoy Kramer and Jack Kluiter. The flower committee was Darlene Truax, Kristi Ott and Julia Anderson. Interment was in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg with the Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg in charge of the arrangements.

On March 1, 1936, Gussie Cassmann was united in marriage with Sebo Kluiter at the Parsonage of the Kesley Presbyterian Church in Kesley. They made their home and farmed near Shell Rock, Allison, Bristow and Parkersburg. In 1984, Gussie moved to Parkersburg.

Gussie was an active and faithful member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Greene. Her hobbies were gardening, raising flowers, quilting, crocheting and baking. She was especially well known for her pies that she liked to bake and had received ribbons at different pie baking contests. Gussie especially loved to care for all of her family and enjoyed being with them.

Gussie was preceded in death by her husband, Sebo Kluiter on December 26, 1978; a son, Robert Kluiter on July 26, 1983; and her parents, Elizabeth and Henry Cassmann.

Gussie is survived by one son, LaVern Kluiter and his wife, Myrna of Parkersburg; two daughters and their husbands, Sylvia and Richard Kaminski of Overland Park, Kansas and Carol and Ronald Smith of Parkersburg; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Louisa Busma of Allison; and three brothers, Harold Cassmann of Allison, Leroy Cassmann of Hampton and Henry Cassmann of Manchester.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Jerry E. Clark

June 23, 2000

Jerry Edward Clark, 33, died on Sunday, June 11, 2000, at approximately 9:00 p.m., at his home in Clarksville. He was born on May 29, 1967 and reached the age of 33 years and 13 days.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, June 14, 2000, at the Schwartz Funeral Home in Clarksville, with the Rev. Norm Omodt officiating. Special music was “The Old Rugged Cross,” and “Amazing Grace.” Honorary casket bearers were Ben Jacobs, John Davis, and Scott Melohn.

Casket bearers were Tony Clark, David Clark, Larry Clark, Rollie Doty, Mike Diesburg and Todd Poland. The flower committee was Trudy Cramer, Linda Johnson and Wanda Diesburg. Interment was in the Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville. The Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of the arrangements. 

Jerry received his education from the Clarksville Community Schools and graduated in the class of 1987. He was very active in sports during high school and played on the football, wrestling and track teams. He placed 5th in two consecutive years at the State Wrestling Tournament and set a high school record in weightlifting. He has been employed by and worked for various road construction companies since graduation.

In his spare time, he liked to go hunting, fishing and being with his dog, Kay. Jerry especially liked spending time with his family and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his two grandfathers, Willson Clark and Pete Hinders; and one uncle, Dale Laughridge.

Jerry is survived by his parents, Roger and Connie Clark of Clarksville; one sister, Teresa Poland and her husband, Todd and their three children, Trinity, Leah, and Jessica of Hampton; three brothers, Tony Clark and friend, Theresa Dietz and her two children, Kristen and Kody Dietz of Clarksville, David Clark and his two sons, Dakota and Brennen of Clarksville and Larry Clark and his wife, Tonya and their four children, Hannah, Tanner, Mavrick and Metric of Clarksville; and three grandmothers, Vera Hinders of Clarksville, Fern Clark of Charles City and Myrtle Clark of Greene.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Belle I. Swalve Shannon

June 23, 2000

Belle I. Swalve Shannon, 83, died on Monday, June 12, 2000. She was born on December 7, 1916 in Clarksville.

Funeral services were conducted by the Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home, Branson, Missouri. Burial was in the Lynwood Cemetery.

She attended the Clarksville School, graduating in 1934. While in Clarksville, she was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church and a member of the 1932 confirmation class.

She was married to Lawrence E. Shannon and they resided in California. On retirement they moved to Forsythe, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence (Larry); her parents; and two sisters.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Kenneth E. Kock

June 23, 2000

Kenneth Eugene Kock, 65, died on Saturday, June 17, 2000, at the USA Healthcare Center in Mason City.

Special music for the funeral was provided by organist, Sandra Schuknecht accompanying the duet of Twyla Ring and Jack Reid singing “In The Garden” and “The Old Rugged Cross” and the congregational singing “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art”. The flower attendants were Arthena Freeseman, Marlene Lauber and JoAnne Uhlenhopp.

Casket bearers were Brent Kock, Jeramy Burgart, Craig Kock, Earl Landers, Harold Kock and Bob Wilson. Honorary casket bearers were Paul Dralle, Dan Miller, Ron Lauber, Galen “Bud” Shultz, Don McBurney and George Uhlenhopp. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. The Reid’s Funeral Chapel in Greene was in charge of the arrangements.

He was born on September 5, 1934 in Rockford, a son of Robert L. and Icena B. (Schriever) Kock. He was baptized on June 14, 1942, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Rockford and was confirmed a member of the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene on March 21, 1948. He received his education in the rural Floyd County Schools and graduated from the Greene High School in 1952.

On June 20, 1954, he was united in marriage to Joyce Ann Shafer at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene.

Kenny was employed by Rottler Farms in Greene and later the Alexander Farms in Latimer, before he started farming on his own near Nashua. During this time he also started working for Oliver-White Farm Equipment Manufacturing in Charles City, where he remained for over twenty years until the plant closed. He worked for Cedar Falls Construction for several years and delivered motor homes for Winnebago.

Kenny’s interests included fishing, camping, playing cards and being with his grandchildren. He raced stock cars in Belmond and Nashua for several years and was an 18 year member of A.A.

Those thankful for having shared Kenny’s life include his three children and their spouses, Kim and Tony Berger of Clear Lake, Richard and Deb Kock of Greene and Russell and Robin Kock of Greene; seven grandchildren, Taylor and Tanner Berger, Shannon and her husband, Nate Trees, Allyson Kock, Reese, Riley, and Ramsey Kock.

He is also survived by his mother, Icena Koenigsfeld of Charles City; one sister, Marian and her husband, Robert “Duke” Schneider of Waverly; one brother, David and his wife, Judy Kock of Bettendorf; and several nieces and nephews.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce on April 23, 1997; his father, Robert L. Kock; and step-father, Arthur Koenigsfeld.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Henrietta Loger

June 30, 2000

Henrietta Loger, age 86, of Parkersburg, died on Sunday, June 18, 2000, at 9:20 a.m., at the Cedar Falls Health Care Center, in Cedar Falls of natural causes. She reached the age of 86 years and 10 days. 

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, June 21, 2000, at the Christian Reformed Church in Parkersburg, with Rev. George McGuire officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Sharon Seehusen accompanying the congregation singing “Amazing Grace” and “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”.

Casket bearers were John Hanna, Harold Kalkwarf, Herb Mulder, Aldrick Kneppe, Roger Seehusen and Lauris Frerichs. Interment was in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg. The Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg was in charge of the arrangements.

Henrietta was born on June 8, 1914, the daughter of Fred and Hilka Adolphs Loger, on a farm near Parkersburg. She was baptized as an infant and was confirmed, and she made profession of her faith in September of 1933, at the Christian Reformed Church in Parkersburg. Henrietta received her education from a country school that was near her home, 2 miles north of Parkersburg.

In 1952, Henrietta moved to Parkersburg with her family. Henrietta and her sister, Tillie cleaned offices together in Parkersburg, including IPS, the lawyers’ office and the dentist’s office, a job that lasted for 35 years. In addition, Henrietta worked for B. G. Johnston for a short time. She also did ironing for a number of people.

Henrietta was a life long member of the Christian Reformed Church. She continued her faithful worship from weekly taped worship services the church sent her, when she no longer was able to attend.

Henrietta enjoyed crafts, knitting and crocheting. She also enjoyed making dolls and jewelry to give as gifts.

In 1996, Henrietta suffered a stroke and spent several weeks in the hospital. When she was released, she was unable to fully care for herself anymore, and entered into the care of a nursing home.

Henrietta was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Tillie and Ida; and two brothers, Hilko who died in infancy and John.

Henrietta is survived by one sister-in-law, Doris Loger of Cedar Falls; two cousins, Tillie Jungling of Aplington and Hattie Johnson of Parkersburg; and special friend, Carol Watters of Parkersburg.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

William H. Skinner

June 30, 2000

William H. Skinner, age 89, of Clarksville, died on Tuesday, June 20, 2000, at 9:46 p.m., at the Community Nursing Home in Clarksville, where he had resided since October 3, 1996.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, June 24, 2000, at the Community United Methodist Church in Clarksville, with Pastor Allen Poore-Christensen officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Glenda Timmer accompanying the congregational hymns of “The Old Rugged Cross”, “Have Thine Own Way Lord”, and “On Eagles Wings”. Honorary casket bearers were Sievert C. Reints, Donald Harris, P.C. Matthias and Bud Arjes.

Casket bearers were Ed Eilers, Bob Borglum, Pete Sinram, Neal Wygle, Dennis Bienemann and Wayne Rohlwing. Interment was in the Lynwood Cemetery in Clarksville with the Schwartz Funeral Home in Clarksville in charge of the arrangements.

Bill was born the son of Benjamin and Blanche Aldrich Skinner on June 4, 1911 in Clarksville, in the home where he spent most of his life. He graduated from the Clarksville Community School in 1928.  

On July 14, 1932, Bill was united in marriage to Ida Dickman in Galena, Illinois. They made their home and continued to live in Clarksville. To this union two children were born a son, Larry and a daughter, Mary Kay.

Bill worked at various jobs and later owned and operated Bill’s Standard Service, in Clarksville, for 18 years. He served on the Butler County Board of Supervisors for 20 years, retiring in 1985. During this time he was instrumental in securing the vote for the new courthouse.

Bill was active in many different community affairs. He served on the Clarksville School Board for six years, during which time the school district was reorganized. He also served on the Clarksville City Council for seven years. Bill was an active and faithful member of the Community United Methodist Church in Clarksville, where he served on the board as well as being the treasurer for several years. He was a member of the Clarksville Lion’s Club, the Clarksville I.O.O.F. Lodge for over 50 years, and a member of C.A.R.D., where he spent many enjoyable hours playing golf with friends. Bill liked to go fishing with his family in Minnesota.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Ida Skinner who died in 1994; his parents; and one sister, Mary in infancy.

Bill is survived by one son, Larry Skinner and his wife, Mardell of Waverly; one daughter, Mary Kay Youngberg and her husband, David of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Myles E. Froemming

June 30, 2000

Myles Edward Froemming, age 85, of Parkersburg, died on Thursday, June 22, 2000, at 4:15 p.m., during surgery at the Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo. He reached the age of 85 years, 1 month and 30 days.

Memorial services were held at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, June 24, 2000, at the Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg, with Rev. Dr. D. H. Palm and Mr. Jack Schuck officiating. Special music was “Sweet Hour of Prayer”, “The Lord’s Prayer” and “Softly & Tenderly”.

Interment was in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg, with full Military Rites conducted by the Parkersburg American Legion Post #285. The Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg was in charge of the arrangements.

Myles was born the son of Herman and Maggie Haack Froemming, on April 23, 1915 in Fern, Iowa. At the age of 10, Myles and his family moved to Parkersburg. He received his education and graduated from the Parkersburg High School in 1933. On January 4, 1937, Myles was united in marriage with Norma Schrage in Parkersburg, where they made their home.

Myles served in the United States Army Air Corp during World War II as an engineer. During a mission in 1943, he was in a B-25 airplane, when it crashed and Myles was injured and lost his right leg. Myles owned and operated Froemming Jewelry and Gifts from 1954, until he retired in 1974.

Myles was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church in Parkersburg and also was a member of the Parkersburg American Legion. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and going golfing with his friends.

Myles was preceded in death by his wife, Norma in 1981; his parents; and a sister, Mabel Swartz.

Myles is survived by one brother, Wayne Froemming of Houston, Texas; one niece, Mrs. Dala Campbell of Austin, Texas; and one nephew, Steve Froemming of Scottsdale, Arizona.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Barbara Jane Hovenga

June 30, 2000

Barbara Jane Hovenga, age 54, of Clarksville, died on Saturday, June 24, 2000, at 6:35 a.m., at the Allen Memorial Hospital, Waterloo, following a lengthy illness. 

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Tuesday, June 27, 2000, at the St. John Lutheran Church, Clarksville, with Rev. Norm Omodt officiating. Organist, Lois Roose accompanied congregational hymns, “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”, “How Great Thou Art” and “Take My Hand and Lead Me.” Honorary casket bearers were Marc Lovrien, Mark Wedeking and Justin Jacobs.

Casket bearers were Jeff Jacobs, Jacob Jacobs, Dave Gallmeyer, Shannon Hovenga, Jody Hovenga and Jerry Hovenga. Burial was in the Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville. The Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of the arrangements.

She was born the daughter of Ernest and Lorraine Strauser Jacobs on August 25, 1945, in the Waverly Hospital. She has lived her entire life either in Clarksville or within a few miles of Clarksville. She received her education in the Clarksville Community School.  

On January 30, 1960, Jane was united in marriage with Robert Hovenga at the St. John Lutheran Church in Clarksville, where she was a member. She had diversified occupations, having worked as a Nurses Aide in Charles City, helped build Winnebago RV’s in Forest City, helped assemble tractors at White Farm in Charles City, was a crane operator for Knock’s Sand and Gravel in Clarksville and was a mother of four sons and two daughters and housekeeper in her home.

Jane also enjoyed camping and fishing with her family, doing woodworking crafts, gardening, and babysitting the grandchildren whom she loved very much.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ernest Jacobs; one granddaughter, Casie Hovenga; an infant sister, Christi Jacobs; a niece, Amber Jacobs and a nephew, Gabe Lovrien.

Jane is survived by her husband, Bob Hovenga; four sons, Mike Hovenga, Jerry Hovenga, Shannon and Melissa Hovenga and Jody and Gina Hovenga; two daughters, Brenda Urban and Dawn and Leon Schmidt; eleven grandchildren, Charlie, Jeremiah, Candy, Josh, Jessica, Tyler, Michelle, Lee, Tasha, Collon and Kara.

She is also survived by her mother, Lorraine Jacobs; one sister, Deb and Russ Lovrien; and two brothers, Jerry and Joann Jacobs and Craig Jacobs. Jane’s entire family lives in Clarksville.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000

Sharon K. Murray

June 30, 2000

Sharon K. Murray, 51, of Waverly, died on Monday morning, June 26, 2000, at her home from complications of cancer.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, June 30, 2000, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church, with Pastor James Carpenter officiating. Burial following cremation will be in the Finchford Cemetery, rural Janesville, Iowa.

Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home, Waverly, where the family will greet friends from 4-8:00 p.m. on Thursday. Visitation will also be for one hour before services on Friday at the church. The Kaiser-Corson Funeral Homes, Inc., is in charge of the arrangements. 

Sharon was born on November 24, 1948 in Sumner, Iowa, the daughter of August H. and Leona (Niklaus) Seehase. She attended school in Sumner and graduated from high school in 1967. Sharon then attended business college in Iowa Falls for the next two years. She worked in Oskaloosa, Iowa, for several years before moving to Waverly where she worked at the Fareway Grocery Store.

On June 26, 1976, she was united in marriage to Charles (Gene) Murray in Oelwein. The couple made their home in Waverly and in February of 1977, Sharon began her career at Lutheran Mutual Life Insurance Company (now known as CUNA Mutual). She started in the mail room and had advanced to Sales Rep. Support. Renal Cell Cancer was discovered in April of this year at which time she began slowing down at work.

She was an active member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church, Waverly. Sharon was very civic minded, volunteering her time and talents to CROP Walk, Cancer drives and other community support opportunities. She enjoyed bowling, but her greatest joy came from spending time with her family.

Sharon is survived by her husband, Gene of Waverly; her daughter, Heidi Murray of Waverly; her mother, Leona Seehase of Oelwein; two step-daughters and their husbands, Rose and Dean Haskin of Shell Rock and Angie and Mark Simerson of Janesville; one step-son and his wife, Scott and Kerry Murray of Charles City; and six step-grandchildren.

She is also survived by three sisters and their husbands, Pauline and Donald Rader of Sumner, Marilyn and Glen Kramer of Clarksville and Verla and Lyle Jurgenson of Sumner.

She was preceded in death by her father, August Seehase.
© Butler County Tribune-Journal 2000