North Central Iowa
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09/30/02

Sally Stephenson

Sally Stephenson, age 65, of Newton, Iowa, died Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at the Skiff Medical Center in Newton of cancer. Sally was born the daughter of Gomer and Helen Rolando Evans, January 21, 1937, in Waverly, Iowa. She graduated from the Clarksville High School and had attended the University of Iowa. On September 11, 1955, Sally was united in marriage with Thomas Stephenson in Clarksville. She had lived in Iowa City, Waverly, Burlington, and Charles City, Iowa before moving to Newton in 1969. Sally worked as an Administrative Assistant for the Newton Fire Department, retiring in 1992 after 17 years. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church, Newton; Chairwoman of the Alter Guild; a member of the Church Council; P.E.O. Chapter L.C.; Theta Chi; Hazel Dell Questers, and the Ladies Noon Luncheon Group for many years. She was preceded in death by her parents. Sally is survived by her husband, Thomas of Newton; two sons and daughters-in-law Scott and Dawn Stephenson, Bettendorf, Iowa and George and Debbie Stephenson, Dubuque, Iowa; one daughter and son-in-law Kathryn and Kevin Vander Ecken, Lacona, Iowa; seven grandchildren; one sister and brother-in-law Ann and Jerry Frame of Grand Lake, Colorado. Funeral services were held Friday, September 20, 2002 at the First Lutheran Church, Newton, with Rev. Paul Axness officiating. Honorary Bearers were Norman Boyle and John Erickson. Casketbearers were Stan Kirchhoff, Edward Shuey, Robert Matheson, John Mellinger, Arnold Schnoebelen, and Larry DeCook. Cremation followed the funeral service with interment in the Newton Union Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the First Lutheran Church. Reese Funeral Home, Newton, was in charge of arrangements.


09/30/02

Casper Kenneth Zwanziger

Casper Kenneth Zwanziger, 94, of Clarksville, Iowa, died Friday morning, September 20, 2002, at the Community Nursing Home, Clarksville, of natural causes. Casper was born on April 2, 1908 in Bremer County, northeast of Plainfield, Iowa, the son of William and Inez (Dana) Zwanziger. He attended rural country school at Six Mile Grove, near Plainfield. He was united in marriage to Margaret Betsinger on August 25, 1932 in Galena, Illinois. After their marriage the couple farmed northeast of Plainfield for almost 60 years. In 1991, the couple moved to Clarksville. Margaret died on July 30, 1993. Casper enjoyed playing cards, horseshoes, farming and especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by one daughter, Mary Wood of Clarksville; three grandsons, Mark Wood and his wife Annette of Nashua, Eric Wood and his wife, Lucy of Great Falls, Montana, and Donald Wood of Fort Huachuca, Arizona; eleven great-grandchildren, Melinda Sickel, Nicole Wood, Dylan Wood, Christina Wood, Nathaniel Wood, Ryan Wood, Kathleen Wood, Edward Wood, Heather Wood, Robbyn Elwood, and Travis Wood; and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Margaret, one brother Leo Zwanziger, and one grandson, Kenneth Wood. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at Immanuel United Church of Christ, Clarksville, with Pastor David Walters officiating. Organist was Sharon Leerhoff, and duets were sung by Shirley Drewis and Jan Fritcher. Casketbearers were Kevin Gilbert, Donald Wood, Mark Wood, David Joachim, Eric Wood, and Kevin Zwanziger. Burial was in the Horton Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family. Kaiser Corson Funeral Homes, Inc., Waverly, were in charge of arrangements.


09/30/02

Mary Irene Busch 

Mary Irene Busch, age 90, passed away September 11, 2002 at Port Angeles, Washington. She was born near rural Plainfield, Iowa March 3, 1912, the daughter of Henry and Bertha Busch. Mary graduated from Allison High School and received her bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University. Mary began teaching in Iowa in the fall of 1934. She also taught in Idaho, Oregon, and Michigan. In the fall of 1948 she accepted the position at Roosevelt in Port Angeles, where she taught home economics for 23 years. A member of the Klahkane Outdoor Club, she enjoyed hiking, beachcombing, skiing, and photography. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother William Busch, and a sister, Lenetta Fuls. Mary is survived by a nephew Robert and his wife Donna Mae Fuls of Waverly. A memorial service will be held later in Port Angeles.


 09/30/02

Shirley Ann Alexander

 Shirley Ann Alexander, age 73, of Clarksville, Iowa, and formerly of Plainfield, Iowa, was born the daughter of Harry and Annetta (Miller) Folkers on November 11, 1928, in Butler County, near Allison, Iowa. Shirley’s family moved to Dumont, Iowa when she was a child. She graduated from Dumont High School in 1946. On November 11, 1947, Shirley A. Folkers was united in marriage with David E. Alexander at the Dumont Evangelical Church in Dumont, Iowa. They made their home in Dumont where she worked at the Dumont State Bank. In 1955, they moved to their farm near Plainfield. Shirley was employed at the Farmers State Bank in Plainfield for 18 years until1986 when she retired. Shirley and David moved to Clarksville in 1988. Shirley was a member of the Clarksville Community United Methodist Church. While living in Dumont and Plainfield she was a Sunday School Teacher. She was a member of the Eastern Star where she held various offices. She enjoyed cooking, quilting, making dolls, and raising flowers. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and a friend to many. Monday, September 16, 2002, Shirley died at her home in Clarksville of cancer. She was preceded in death by her son, Clark Alexander, and her parents. Shirley is survived by her husband, David E. Alexander of Clarksville; one son, Mark William Alexander and his wife, Annette of Davenport, Iowa and their children Jacob and Jessica; one daughter, Joelle Lyn Jensen and her husband, Alan of North English, Iowa and their children, Cody and Katie; a daughter-in-law, Pam Alexander of Cedar Falls, Iowa and her children Amy Goetsch and Eric Alexander; and one brother, Gary Folkers and his wife, Brenda of Waterloo, Iowa. Funeral services were at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, September 19, 2002, Community United Methodist Church with burial in Lynwood Cemetery, both in Clarksville, Iowa. Officiating was Pastor Allen Poore-Christensen. Organist Lola Clark accompanied soloist Julie Poore-Christensen who sang “In This Very Room” and “The Lord’s Prayer.” Congregational hymns were “Borning Cry,” “Hymn of Promise” and “How Great Thou Art.” Honorary Casketbearers were Geraldine Day, Jeanette Leyen, Virginia Becker, Elsie Lovrien, Dorothy Smith and Donna Kelm. Casketbearers were Cody Jensen, Lloyd Leyen, Dean Dietz, Art Lovrien, Vern Poppen and Robert Kelm. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to Bremer-Butler Hospice and American Cancer Society.


 09/30/02

Miriam L. Bergman

Miriam L. Bergman, 79, of 210 15th Street, N.W., Waverly, Iowa, died peacefully at her residence on Monday, September 16, 2002, of natural causes. Miriam was born on August 14, 1923, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Carl and Viola (Rohrssen) Zabel of Tripoli, Iowa. She was baptized at an early age and confirmed on March 21, 1937, at Faith United Church of Christ in Tripoli. She attended country school near her home. On December 6, 1941, she was united in marriage to Alfred H. Bergman in Lancaster, Missouri. The couple made their home near Tripoli and in January of 1945 they moved to Waverly where they raised five children. Miriam retired from the Waverly Shell High School food services in 1980. Miriam spent many years helping with the Cedar Valley Hospice Program and was a past member of T.O.P.P.S. Miriam was a longtime member of Peace United Church of Christ in Waverly, where she was past-president of the womens fellowship, was a past member of the church consistory and was a superintendant of and taught Sunday school for many years. Miriam enjoyed to crochet, travel, camp, and loved to visit. Miriam is survived by two daughters; Judith Poppen and her husband, Douglas of Allison, Iowa, Brenda Bergman of Redwood City, California; one son, Raymond Bergman and his wife, Peggi of Phoenix, Arizona; one son-in-law, Allan Haugen of Fertile, Iowa; 12 grandchildren and spouses, Stephanie & Nick Schmitz of Waterloo, Sherry & Chris Schmitz of Jesup, Shelly & Gerald Weber of Jesup, Sheila & Todd Backer of Clarksville, Scott & Melissa Poppen of Aplington, Jodi & James Gray of Rhome,Texas, Sandy & Dean Novak of Isheming, Michigan, Troy Mohlis of Waverly, Heidi & Troy Sievers of Waterloo, Melissa Arnold of Havre, Montana, Timothy Haugen of Sioux City, Matthew Haugen of Fertile; 27 great grandchildren; two sisters, Rose Blaschke of Lowell, Arkansas, Ruth Gaede and her husband, Marlowe of Withee, Wisconsin; two brothers, Carl Zabel Jr., and his wife, Bernadine of Hayward, California, Eugene Zabel and his wife, Irene of Waverly and a brother-in-law, Elmer Schweer of West Branch. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alfred in August of 1989; one son, Ronald A. Bergman in February of 1993; one daughter, Cynthia Haugen in March of 2001; one brother, Lawrence Zabel; and two sisters, Florene Schweer and Florence in infancy. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 20, 2002, at 10:30 A.M. at Peace United Church of Christ in Waverly, with Pastor M. Suzanne Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Cedar Falls. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly, where there will be a public prayer service at 8:00 P.M. on Thursday. Friends may also call for an hour before services on Friday at the church. Memorials may be directed to the family and a memorial fund will be established at a later date.


                             Posted by Gene Manning on 10/1/02


10/03/02

Jeanetta Aukes 

Jeanetta Aukes, 87, of Allison, Iowa, died September 21, 2002 at the Shell Rock Healthcare Center in Shell Rock, Iowa of natural causes. On December 22, 1914, she was born the daughter of John W. and Nancie (Bohlen) Johnson of Aplington, Iowa. She was educated in the country school in Coster, Iowa. On January 8, 1933 she was united in marriage to William Aukes in New Hartford, Iowa. She was a homemaker all her life and a member of the Allison United Church of Christ. Jeanetta enjoyed playing Yahtzee, needlework, gardening and bird watching. Survivors include two sons: Eddie and wife, Shirley Aukes and Jerry and wife, Judy Aukes, both of Allison, Iowa; a daughter: Bonnie Carpenter of Loveland, Colorado; three sisters: Talena Alberts and Lydia Bartels, both of Parkersburg, Iowa and Nancie Carpenter of Riveria, Arizona; a brother: Edward Johnson of Parkersburg, Iowa; and fourteen grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband William, seven brothers: Harm, John, Peter, Clearance, Eugene, Donald and Lawrence. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at the Allison United Church of Christ with Rev. Eileen Johnson officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Mrs. Cecil Radcliffe accompanying the soloist, Joel Sult. Pallbearers were Roger Doty, Tim Griggs, Bobby Aukes, James Aukes, Jeffrey Aukes, and David Hawver. Final resting place was in the Allison Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Allison in charge of arrangements.


 10/03/02

Barbaara Ann "Bobbi" Botterbrodt 

Funeral services for Barbara Ann “Bobbi” (Reed) Botterbrodt, 56, of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, formerly of Greene, were held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, September 16, 2002 at Calvary Baptist Church in Greene with burial in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Barbara Ann Reed was born September 12, 1946, a daughter of Donald and Eleanor (Flora) Reed and died Thursday, September 12, 2002, at her home in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. She received her education in the Greene Public Schools graduating in 1964. She was united in marriage to David Botterbrodt at the Little Brown Church in Nashua and farmed northeast of Greene for 13 years. They moved to Ankeny in January 1975 where David attended Faith Bible College. Following David’s completion of school, they moved to Abilene, Texas, where Bobbi became employed as head custodian for the Independent School District for nearly 20 years. In March of 2001 they moved to their present home in Mammoth Spring at Camp Hosanna where she was a member of the camp staff and chief cook. For the short time there Bobbi had made an impact on many lives. She was dedicated to her calling and fulfilling the many responsibilities placed on her at the camp, but still finding the time to decorate the camp for various holidays and events. Bobbi will be remembered for her devotion to God, love for her husband, family, friends and neighbors. She received much joy in providing for her family and spoiling the grandchildren when given the chance. She was a member of Faith Baptist Church in Mammoth Spring, where she was a Sunday School teacher. She was a lifetime member of the PTA. Those thankful for having shared her life include her loving husband David of Mammoth Spring; two daughters and their spouses Deborah (Michael) Belch and Dianna (Joel) Tobey, both of Abilene, Texas; two sons and their spouses: Daniel (Rhonda) Botterbrodt of Delaware, Ohio and David J. (Tracey) Botterbrodt of Collins, Iowa; ten grandchildren: Justin and Ryan Botterbrodt; Charles, Elaina, and David Tobey: Corey and Rachel Belch; Dani, BreAnne and Erin Botterbrodt; her mother: Eleanor Reed of Greene; her sister and brother-in-law: Donna (Dennis) Wunsch of Greene; three brothers and their spouses: Jim (Marge) Reed, Gary (Debbie) Reed of McFarland, Wisconsin, and Steve (Donice) Reed of Chandelor, Arizona. She was preceded in death by her father. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Bobbi Botterbrodt Memorial Fund in care of the family at P.O. Box 431, Mammoth Spring, Arkansas 72554-0431. Reid’s Funeral Chapel in Greene was in charge of arrangements.


 10/03/02

Gladys L. Trees 

A Funeral Mass for Gladys L. Trees, 81 of 606 Maple Street, Greene, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 2, 2002, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greene with Rev. Msgr. Walter Brunkan officiating. Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Greene. Reid¹s Funeral Chapel of Greene is in charge of arrangements. Visitation will be 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1, at Reid’s Funeral Chapel in Greene where there will be a Scriptural Wake Service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour before services at the church. Gladys LaVonne Latch was born December 22, 1920, in Goodell, the daughter of Glen and Florence (Wilkin) Latch ,and died Saturday, September 28, 2002 at her home in Greene. She received her education in the Goodell Public Schools where she graduated in 1938. She was united in marriage to Leslie Duane “Buck” Trees on May 20, 1944, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greene. They made their home in Greene. To this union were born three sons. Gladys worked for several businesses in Greene which included the Greene Cafe, Klassi Hardware and the Riverside Cafe. In later years she did sewing and seamstress work in her own home. Gladys and Buck had 44 years together until his death on August 25, 1988. They enjoyed going trout fishing in Decorah. Gladys enjoyed playing 500 and watching the Alanta Braves on television. Living family members include her three sons and their spouses: Alan (Jan) Trees, Doug (Emily) Trees, Bryon (Rosie) Trees, eight grandchildren and their spouses: Eric (Lisa) Trees, Angie (Nate) Siemons, Darin Trees, Chad (Erin) Trees, Brad (Melannie) Trees, Lacie Trees, Nate (Shannon) Trees, Justin (Beth) Trees; six great-grandchildren: Trevor and Taylor Siemons, Brandon Trees, Isaac Trees, Bryce Trees, and Deric Trees; two brothers and their spouses: Clement (Betty) Latch of Rockford, Gerald (Judy) Latch of Mason City; two sisters-in-law: Helen Latch of Charles City and Dixie Beiner of Waverly. She was preceded in death by her husband, a grandson: Matthew Trees in infancy, his parents, and two brothers Gordon Latch who died in infancy and Elroy Latch. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Gladys L. Trees Memorial Fund in care of the family at 606 Maple, Box 1, Greene, Iowa 50636.


 10/03/02

Margaret Dorothy Adolphs

Margaret Dorothy Adolphs, age 84, of New Hartford, Iowa, was born the daughter of John and Dirtje (Freimuth) Ridder on July 21, 1918, in Emden, Germany. She immigrated to the United States with her parents in 1923. She received her education in country schoolhouse Jefferson #6 near home in Butler Center. On January 22, 1940, Margaret Ridder was united in marriage with Bennie Adolphs at the Parkersburg Christian Reformed Church Parsonage by Rev. K. Tebben. They made their first home together on the farm they rented from John Ackerman near Allison, Iowa. Margaret and Ben later rented the Kothe farm near Shell Rock, Iowa. They moved in 1949 to the farm northwest of New Hartford, Iowa, which they later purchased from Ben Franken, and continued to farm for the next 30 years until their retirement in 1982. Margaret was a loving wife and enjoyed helping Ben with the farm. Ben died on December 3, 1990, and shortly following his death she moved to her present home in New Hartford. Margaret was a member of the Reformed Church of Stout in Stout, Iowa where she served on the Women’s Guild. She was a former member of the Bethel Christian Reformed Church in rural Allison where she taught Sunday school and Bible school and served on the Women’s fellowship group. Margaret liked to do embroidery work and spend time in her garden growing vegetables and flowers. She enjoyed the company of her friends and especially loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren’s visits. At 10:50 p.m. Monday, September 23, 2002, Margaret died at the Cedar Falls Lutheran Home in Cedar Falls, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bennie Adolphs; one sister, Tena Spree; and four brothers, Joe, Henry, Adolf and Fred Ridder. Margaret is survived by one daughter, Doris Heerts and her husband, Steven of New Hartford; three sons, Darrel Adolphs and his wife, Lisa of Miles, Iowa, Ken Adolphs and his wife, Carolyn of Traer, Iowa and Marvin Adolphs and his wife, Delores of Parkersburg, Iowa; ten grandchildren and their spouses and eight great-grandchildren; and one sister-in-law, Hattie Johnson. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, September 30, 2002, at Reformed Church of Stout, Stout, Iowa. With Rev. David Powers officiating. Organist was Elaine Schnell. Vocalists, Mareah Adolphs and Hannah Heerts sang “Jesus Loves Me.” Tim Heerts accompanied by Doris Heerts, sang “The Lord’s Prayer.” Congregational Hymns were “’Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus” and “Blessed Assurance.” Readings Given were given by Christopher Adolphs, Darin Adolphs, Jason Heerts and Lillian Marks. Casketbearers were Tim Heerts, Dan Heerts, Jason Heerts, Darin Adolphs, Brandon Adolphs and Christopher Adolphs. Interment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Parkersburg, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.


                             Posted by Gene Manning on 10/4/02


 Neescha F. Hemmen 

10/14/02

Neescha F. Hemmen, 79, of Bristow, Iowa passed away October 1, 2002 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. She was born on May 27, 1923 in rural Kesley, Iowa to George and Katie (Escher) Jungling. Neescha graduated from the Bristow High School in 1940. She was married to Bert Hemmen on November 19, 1942 in Lawton, Oklahoma. Neescha was a homemaker. She was a member of the Bristow Reformed Church and a member of the ladies guild. Neescha enjoyed sewing, quilting, arts and crafts, and playing cards. She is survived by her husband Bert Hemmen of Bristow; four daughters: Linda Truax of Cedar Rapids, Mary and husband George O’Donnell of Marion, Ruth and husband Michael Rader of Aurora, Illinois, Nancy and husband Randy Rogers of Belmond; grandchildren Matthew and Caitlyn Rogers, and Amelia Rader. Neescha was preceded in death by her parents, one son-in-law Pete Truax, and one brother John. Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, October 4, 2002 at the Bristow Reformed Church with Rev. Scott Summers officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Mrs. Melvin Mennen accompanying soloist, Eldon Siemers. Pallbearers were Mike Rader, Randy Rogers, Matthew Rogers, George O’Donnell, Bob Schneiderman and Wayne Zimmerman. Honorary pallbearers were Caitlyn Rogers and Amelia Rader. Final resting place was in the Oak Hill Cemetery rural, Bristow, Iowa. Sietsema-Vogel funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.


Maxine Helen (Dye) Ayers

 10/14/02

Maxine Helen (Dye) Ayers, 95, of Aredale, Iowa passed away September 29, 2002 at the Sartori Memorial Hospital in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She was born June 20, 1907 in Butler County, Iowa to Henry and Ruth (Rubyor) Dye. Maxine attended Dumont High School and the University of Northern Iowa. On September 21, 1926, she was married in Butler County Iowa to Paul Ayers. Maxine was a teacher and a homemaker. She was a member of the Aredale Gospel Hall. Maxine loved to garden, crochet, and she especially loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, reading her Bible and communing with her Lord. She was saved in 1931. Maxine is survived by two daughters: Betty and husband LaVerne Swieter of Geneva and Sharon and husband Wayne Folken of Waterloo; two sons: Robert and wife Darlene Ayers of Dumont and Kenneth and wife Sheryl Ayers of Bristow; daughter-in-law: Inez Ayers of Aplington; sixteen grandchildren; twenty-nine great grandchildren, and nine great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Marvin, one grandson, one brother and one sister. Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 2, 2002 at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont with Alan Christopherson officiating. Special music for the funeral was provided by organist, Jeanette Collins accompanying the singers: Michelle Swieter, Dustin Ayers, Amber Ayers and Whitney Harvey. Pallbearers were David Ayers, Craig Ayers, Doug Ayers, Brian Ayers, Scott Shives and Dennis Swieter. Final resting place was in the Oak Hill Cemetery, rural Bristow, Iowa. Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont was in charge of arrangements.


Steno T. Eiderts

10/14/02

Steno T. Eilderts, age 86, of Aplington, Iowa, was born November 20, 1915, in Bear Grove, near Kesley, Iowa. He was the son of Gerrit and Harmka Russman Eilderts. He received his education in a rural school near his home. He was an Army veteran of World War II where he served in the cavalry and radio communications. Steno received the Purple Heart after being wounded in France. He married Helena Schipper on February 28, 1947 at her parent’s home in rural Kesley. The couple made their home in Aplington. Steno was a rural mail carrier for 26 years and retired in 1971. He was a member of First Reformed Church where he served as an Elder, Deacon, and Treasurer. He taught Sunday School, and attended men’s prayer and fellowship. Steno was a member of the Rural Mail Carriers Assoc., Lions Club and enjoyed his family, fishing, camping, and traveling. Steno died Sunday, October 6, 2002, at Allen Memorial Hospital, Waterloo, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, Jeremy Nulton; three brothers, George, Jerry and Edward Eilderts and three sisters, Tillie Fecht, Harmina Wiegmann and Elta Eilderts. He is survived by his wife, Helena Schipper; three daughters, Joan Nulton, Arlington Heights, Illinois; Judy Sagendorf, McHenry, Illinois and Janet Pesicka, Marengo, Illinois; three grandchildren, Greg and Mark Pesicka and Nancy Olsen; one great-grandchild, Skyler Olsen; four sisters, Gertie Kolpek, Grundy Center, Iowa; Bena Krull, Grundy Center, Iowa; Ruth Mulder, Dike, Iowa and Marie Menken, Greene, Iowa. Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 8, 2002, at the First Reformed Church, Aplington, Iowa with Rev. Harlan DeJong officiating. Organist was Lois Wessels. Vocalists were Willie and Randy Aalderks who sang “How Great Thou Art” and “In The Garden.” Congregational Hymns were “O That Will Be Glory” and “Face To Face.” Casketbearers were Bryan Schipper, Glenn Behrends, Dean Huisman, Mervin Menken, Jerald Eilderts, Mervin Menken and Galen Wiegmann. Burial was in Pleasant View Cemetery, Aplington, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, Iowa was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.


 Brock Harlan Steere 

10/14/02

Brock Harlan Steere was born November 30, 1983, at the Waverly Municipal Hospital, a son of Harlan Henry and Debra Jo (Wangsness) Steere. He died Tuesday, October 1, 2002, along with his father as a result of a farming accident near his home. He received his education in the Allison-Bristow Public Schools, graduating in 2002. Brock was an athlete extraordinaire whose passion and life was basketball. He started basketball in elementary and junior high school, going directly to varsity as a four year starter and letterman. He was MVP for two years in a row, and unanimous choice first team all conference. He was chosen Homecoming King in 2001. Recently he had been coaching little kids basketball and was planning to get his coaching endorsement. In football, Brock was a three year varsity player and was first team All State Iowa Newspaper Assn. Senior year. First Team All District Unanimous Choice. In track, he was state qualifier in the High Jump during his junior year. Growing up on the farm, he learned farming the same way his dad did. He was actively engaged in 4-H having received many awards at both the county and state fairs. He received the Iowa State Fair Reserve Champion Heavy Weight Gilt. Recently he had started raising Club Calves. Brock was a well liked person who got along with both the young and old. He enjoyed teasing his two nieces and one nephew and spending time with his special friend Ashley. His other interests included hunting and fishing. He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church and was an avid Cyclone fan. Brock is survived by his loving mother Deb of Allison; his three siblings and their spouses: Renee (Michael) Salge of Greene, Brett Steere and his friend Lisa Stauffer of Allison, Jill (Mark) Lamborn of Luana, and his “Third Sister” Lisa (Ternus) and her husband Nate Gronewald of Albia; his special friend Ashley Henrichs of Allison; two nieces Taylor and Brynn Salge and nephew Kaleb Salge, and one on the way; his paternal grandmother: Mildred Steere of Greene, and maternal grandparents Ken and Ila Wangsness of Allison; also surviving are many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather William Steere, Jr. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family. Combined funeral services for Harlan and Brock Steere were held at 10:30 a.m., October 4, 2002 at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison, Iowa with Pastor Jerry Laehn officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Vivian Green accomp-anying the congregational singing “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”, “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry”, “How Great Thou Art” and “Pass It On.” Flower Attendants were Curt and Kelly Henrichs, Alice Schwab, Carolyn Rover and Diane Salge. Casketbearers for Harlan were: Jim O’Brien, Larry Schwab, Paul Rover, Ron Salge, Nick Wangsness and Dave Wangsness. Casketbearers for Brock were: Tyler Griffin, Cody Wangsness, Kyle Schueler, Cole Wubbena, Ryan Henrichs and Marcus Uhlenhopp. Honorary casketbearers for Harlan were: Nephews of Harlan Steere. Honorary casketbearers for Brock were: Class of 2002. Ushers were Danny Bohlen, Mel Bohlen, Louis DeBower, Harry Eckhoff, Harry Hummel, Bob Wubbena, Dale Johnson and Darwin Wubbena. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene with Reid’s Funeral Chapel in Greene in charge of arrangements.


 HARLAN STEERE

10/14/02

Harlan Henry Steere was born May 29, 1950, on the family farm in Coldwater Township, Butler County, a son of William Jr. and Mildred (Rover) Steere. He died Tuesday, October 1, 2002, along with his son Brock, as a result of a farming accident near their home. He received his education in the Greene Public Schools, graduating in 1968. Having grown up on the farm, he learned all the aspects of farming and land stewardship from his father and grandfather. Following graduation, he continued to work on the family farm. He was united in marriage to Debra Jo Wangsness on February 22, 1975, at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison They lived east of Greene the first year of their marriage and then moved to their present farm. To this union were born four children, Renee, Brett, Jill and Brock. Throughout Harlan’s career as a farmer he never lost sight of the principles of farming and stewardship that he was taught. He was precise and meticulous in the way he farmed and raised his livestock. The family tradition continued by him was passed on to his sons, who helped him on the farm. He was a supporter of the 4-H program and enjoyed helping his children get ready for county and state fairs. He enjoyed going to the sale barns and seeing his friends and acquaintances there. The only time he would stop work would be for the grandchildren. He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church, Butler County Farm Bureau, and Pheasants Forever. Harlan was well respected in the farming community and a friend to many, as well as a devoted husband, father and grandfather, who cherished those special family times with his children and grandchildren. Living family members include: his loving wife Deb of Allison; three children and their spouses: Renee (Michael) Salge of Greene, Brett Steere and his friend Lisa Stauffer of Allison, Jill (Mark) Lamborn of Luana, and Harlan’s “Third Daughter” Lisa (Ternus) and her husband Nate Gronewald of Albia; three grandchildren: Taylor, Kaleb, and Brynn Salge and one on the way; his mother: Mildred Steere of Greene; four sisters: Marlys (Jim) Nixt of Greene, Marilyn Steere of Waverly, Marcia (Bruce) Trey of Scottsdale, Arizona, Peg (Dennis) Griffin of Greene; his brother Charles Steere of Greene; mother and father-in-law: Ken and Ila Wangsness of Allison. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father William Steere, Jr. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family.


                            Posted by Gene Manning on 10/14/02


10/16/02

 Dorothy Mae Rewerts 

Dorothy Mae Rewerts, 76, of Dumont, passed away October 10, 2002, at the Dumont Care Center. She was born August 4, 1926 in Dumont, Iowa to William and Marguerite (Stafford) Borneman. Dorothy attended the Dumont High School. She was married to Walter Rewerts on January 8, 1946 at the Washington Reformed Church parsonage in rural Ackley. Dorothy was a homemaker, part-time housekeeper at the Dumont Care Center, volunteer for Hospice, and janitor for the Washington Reformed Church for fifteen years. Dorothy and her husband farmed until they retired in 1981, when they moved to Dumont. She was a member of the Washington Reformed Church. Dorothy is survived by four daughters: Linda and husband O.T. Castillo of Austin, Texas, Ruth and husband Dennis Hosch of Cresco, Iowa, Louise and husband Paul Hosch of Aplington, and Elaine and husband Wayne Frerichs of Steamboat Rock, Iowa; five grandchildren: Melissa and Glen Schmitt, Jennifer Hosch, Jeffrey and Jessica Hosch, Justin Hosch, and Amanda Rand; three great granchildren; Joseph Rand, Victoria Dakota Smith, and Savannah Dorothy Schmitt. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, husband Walter, two brothers Vincent and William. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, October 14, 2002 at the Washington Reformed Church rural Ackley with Rev. Jack Ritsema officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Mrs. Kenneth Ackerman accompanying the duet of Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Nolte. Pallbearers were Reuben Freese, Eugene Maifeld, Darwin Noelting, Burdette Janssen, Russell Borneman and Raymond Wickham. Final reasting place was in the Washington Reformed Church Cemetery, rural Ackley, Iowa. Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.


10/16/02

Douglas B. Grau

Douglas B. Grau, 75, of Dumont, Iowa, passed away on October 5, 2002, at the North Iowa Mercy Health Center East Campus, Mason City, Iowa of natural causes. On April 1, 1927, Douglas was born the son of George and Esther Grau in Cedar Falls, Iowa. He was raised in the Cedar Falls area. Douglas graduated from the Cedar Falls High School. He served in the Navy during WWII. On February 12, 1949, he was united in marriage to Dorothy Plummer in Cedar Falls. He worked at John Deere, operated heavy equipment for construction, and owned the Horse Shoe Bar in Dumont for 15 years. He was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Hampton, Iowa, and was a member of the American Legion of Dumont. Douglas loved to hunt and fish, spend time with family, doing yard work and watching football. Dorothy and Douglas never let a day go by without telling each other they loved one another. Survivors include his wife Dorothy Grau of Dumont; two daughters: Donita and husband Mike Cahill of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Susan and husband Mike Schleidt of Atlanta, Georgia; one son: Tom and wife, Sandy Grau of Omaha, Nebraska; five grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. He was precded in death by his parents and one grandchild. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 8, 2002, at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont with Rev. Don Liming officiating. Special music was provided by key boardist, Don Sorenson accom-panying the singers, Diane Bahl and Kristin Hayes. Burial will be at a later date. Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont was in charge of arrangements.


 10/16/02 

Catherine T. Wood 

Funeral services for Catherine T. Wood, 87, of 408 East Pine Street, Riceville, formerly of Marble Rock, were held Saturday, October 12, 2002, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Marble Rock with Pastor Patricia Shaw officiating. Burial was in the Lynwood Cemetery in Clarksville. Catherine Theda Reints was born July 24, 1915, North of Clarksville, ButlerCounty a daughter of William John and Dena (Reints) Reints, and diedTuesday, October 8, 2002, at the Riceville Community Rest Home. She received her education in the rural schools and attended the Clarksville High School. She was united in marriage to Donald Asa Wood on October 6, 1939 at St. John’s Parsonage in Clarksville. They made their home in Marble Rock where Don operated the school bus. When he entered the armed forces in 1944, Catherine took over the bus route making her one of the first woman bus driver in the state. She drove school bus for 37 years with a perfect driving record. Her interests included gardening, camping, and making quilts for her grandchildren and other family members. She was a charter member of St.Pauls Lutheran Church in Marble Rock in 1945, Sunday School Teacher, and member of the Ladies Aide. Living family members include two daughters: Beverly Slinger of Mason /City, Judy and her husband Curtis Wallace of Riceville; three grandchildren: Rhonda (Jon) Sult of Marble Rock, Angie (Andy) Smith of Rose Creek, MN, Dawn Wallace of Faribault, MN, three great grandchildren: Dustin Sult, Dena Sult, and Asa Smith; one sister: Geraldine Bruggeman of Marble Rock; one brother: Sievert Reints of Clarksville; three nephews: Doug (Cindy) Bruggeman of Rochester, MN, Bill Reints, of Oeiwein, Tom (Jan) Reints of Webster City, one niece: Deb ((Terry) Hammer of Swisher; two sisters-in-law: Marion Wood of Marble Rock, Erma Wood of Grand Meadow, MN, two brothers-in-law: Max Wood of Waverly and Wes Chambers of Charles City. She was preceded in death by her husband, grandson: David Slinger in 1982, Son-in-law Dale Slinger, her parents, and one sister: Elsa Swan. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Catherine Wood Memorial Fund in care of the family.


                              Posted by Gene Manning on 10/18/02


10/24/02 

Robert Albert Laube

Robert Albert Laube, age 91, of the Bartels Lutheran Home and formerly of Clarksville, Iowa, was born the son of Adolph and Anna (Kelm) Laube on February 3, 1911, near Clarksville, Iowa. He was baptized into the Christian faith at the Immanuel United Church of Christ in Clarksville. He received his education from the Clarksville School. Robert was united in marriage with Frieda Mary Garbes on January 23, 1938, in Clarksville, Iowa. The couples first home was north of Clarksville, where they rented one of the Heery farms. Bob and Frieda farmed various farms they rented in the Clarksville area and later bought their own farm south of Clarksville. Bob also worked as a carpenter and worked for Carver Lumber in Waverly, Iowa. He later operated his own construction business. Bob retired from farming, but continued to take part-time carpentry jobs. In 1989 they built a home in Clarksville and moved from the farm. Bob was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Clarksville, where he faithfully attended Sunday Services. He enjoyed fishing for Walleye and would often take fishing trips to Northern Minnesota and Strawberry Point, Iowa. He also could be found just below the dam on the Shell Rock River near Clarksville fishing for catfish. Bob also enjoyed the fellowship of his friends at Pete and Shorty’s in Clarksville. Bob died on Wednesday, October 16, 2002, at the Bartels Lutheran Home in Waverly, Iowa of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his: sister, Minnie Schmidt; four brothers, William, Paul, Herman and August Laube. Bob is survived by his: wife, Frieda Laube of the Allison Care Center, Allison, IA; one daughter, Joyce (Larry) Adams, Coal Valley, IL; three sons, Jerry (Kathi), Atlantic, IA, Donald (Sandy), Altoona, IA, and David Laube, Bloomington, IL; eight grand-children, Kimberly Law, Scott Laube, Kelly Bjork (Mark), Michael Laube (Donna), Lisa LaRue (Troy), Jeffery Laube, Autumn Thomson (Clint) and Sarah Laube, eight great grandchildren, and two step-great grandchildren; two sisters, Elsie Ness, Waverly, IA, and Sophie Witte, Guerneville, CA. Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 19, 2002, at the Immanuel United Church of Christ in Clarksville, Iowa. Rev. David Walters officiated, Sharon Leerhoff was the organist and the Congregational Hymns were “Amazing Grace,” “My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less” and “Wake My Soul.” The Casketbearers were Darrel Kelm, Arlan Laube, Bob Kelm, Clarence Laube, Fred Kelm and Dale Laube. Interment was at the Lynwood Cemetery in Clarksville, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Clarksville were in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to Robert’s family.


Earla Mae Morehouse 

10/24/02

 Earla Mae Morehouse, 89, of Dumont, Iowa, died on October 19, 2002 at the Dumont Care Center of natural causes. On November 20, 1912, she was born the daughter of Henry Emil and Eveline (Hawver) Jorges of rural Aredale, Iowa. She was raised in rural Aredale and educated in the Aredale public schools. On September 7, 1935 she was united in marriage to Percy Morehouse in Waverly, Iowa. She was a homemaker all her life. Earla Mae was a member of New Hope United Methodist Church of Dumont and was a member of the UMW, several card clubs and different fellowship clubs. She enjoyed gardening. Survivors include her husband, Percy Morehouse of Dumont and a sister, Lola McKee of Aredale, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents, four sisters, and three brothers. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at the New Hope United Methodist Church in Dumont with Rev. Michael Shaffer officiating. Special music was provided by orgnist, Mrs. Beryl Reed accompanying the soloist, Mrs. Darwin Collins. The usher was Harold Reents. Pallbearers were Jerry Jorges, Darrell Kelm, Howard Schulz, Douglas Jorges, Michael Christensen and Bryon Morehouse. Final resting place was in the Dumont Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont in charge of arrangements.


                             Posted by Gene Manning on 10/26/02


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