04/05/04

Graveside military rites will be conducted by Clarksville AMVETS Post #30 for Ronald Grinstead on Saturday, April 3, at 11:00 a.m. in Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville.

04/05/04

Ronald M. Tellinghuisen, 68, of Janesville, Iowa, died on Wednesday, March 24, 2004, at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, of natural causes. Ron was born on April 15, 1935, on the family farm in rural Butler County, Iowa, the son of Wesley and Thelma (McLaren) Tellinghuisen. He graduated from Iowa State Teachers College High School in Cedar Falls in 1953. After his graduation, Ron worked in Cedar Falls at Brunskill Dairy and Benton’s Ready Mix. On August 31, 1956, he was united in marriage to Phyllis Rogers in Cedar Falls. In 1964, the couple purchased a farm south of Waverly. He farmed there until 1990, when he purchased their current acreage south of Janesville. Ron was currently employed with Croell Redi-Mix in Waverly since 1992. Besides work, Ron enjoyed riding his motorcycle and spending time with his family. Ron is survived by his wife, Phyllis, of Janesville, Iowa; two sons and their spouses, Mark and Tami Tellinghuisen of Shell Rock and Mike and Kathy Tellinghuisen of Janesville; two daughters and their spouses, Deb Tellinghuisen Funk and Steve Funk of Pine Springs, Minnesota, and Denise Tellinghuisen Christophel and Kelly Christophel of Fairfield, California; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his father, Wesley Tellinghuisen of Waverly; one brother, Jon Tellinghuisen of Windsor, Colorado, and two sisters and their spouses, Gretchen and Tom Northrup of Kelley, Iowa, and Carmen and Michael DeYoe of LeCrosse, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Tellinghuisen. Funeral services were held Saturday, March 27, 2004 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Waverly with Rev. Tony R. Nester and Pastor Keith Tomlinson officiating. Organist was Douglas Shaffer. Pallbearers were Keith Bumgardner, Larry Dix, Dale T. Gerholdt, Jack Haney, Dennis Howe, Paul Leerhoff, Bob Mehmen, Dale L. Stevenson, Jon Tellinghuisen, and Darrell R. Young. Burial was in Hillside Cemetery in Cedar Falls. Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly was in charge of arrangements.

04/05/04

Paul Griffiths , 92, of Mesa, Arizona, and formerly of rural Parkersburg, Iowa was born Feb. 19, 1912, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son Robert and Minnie Fisher Griffiths. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Des Moines in 1930. Paul graduated from Reisch Auction School (now World Wide College of Auctioneering) in Mason City in 1951 and auctioned household and farm sales until the mid-1960s. He attended Gates Business College in Waterloo, earned a realty license and sold properties. Paul was united in marriage with Doris Bawn on April 5, 1941, at the Baptist Meeting Grounds in Iowa Falls, Iowa Paul and his brothers and father owned and operated Maple Leaf Dairy Co. in Des Moines in the 1930s and 1940s, delivering milk to stores and homes Paul farmed with a brother at Polk City from 1947 to 1954. He then moved to a farm he had purchased southeast of Parkersburg in Grundy County. For about 35 years, he raised corn and soybeans, hogs, poultry, and Holstein cattle, with an emphasis on feeder pigs and dairying. For 10 years at the Iowa State Fair, he exhibited field and garden produce from his Maple Leaf Farm in Grundy County. Gardening was his passion, and he gave away his produce widely. He retired from active farming about 1990. He enjoyed farm neighbors, playing harmonica, teasing, risk-taking, “going to town” and helping others. He moved to Arizona in 1997. Paul died Thursday, March 18, 2004, at Arizona Senior Homes in Mesa where he had lived since November, 1997. He was preceded in death by his wife of more than 55 years, Doris on January 1, 1997; his parents and two brothers, Anthony and Donald. He is survived by his daughter, Linda (Joe) Senger of Murphy, North Carolina; twin sons, Lincoln Griffiths (Janice Szepanski) of Windsor Locks, Connecticut., and Lawn (Patty) Griffiths of Tempe, Arizona; five grandchildren, Stewart Senger of Murphy, North Carolina; Sherry (David) Grismer of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Eric (Heather) Griffiths of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Ryan Beaupre of Middletown, Connecticut; and Ashley Griffiths of Avondale, Arizona; and one great-granddaughter, Hope Grismer of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Funeral Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 29, 2004 at the Calvary Baptist Church, Parkersburg, Iowa with Rev. Anthony Bradseth officiating. Eulogies were read by his sons, Lawn Griffiths and Lincoln Griffiths. Organist was Renise Aswegen. Soloist Rosalie Cherry sang “Softly and Tenderly” and “Old Rugged Cross.” Congregational Hymn was “How Great Thou Art.” Casketbearers were Robert Griffiths, Gary Griffiths, Ted Junker, Duane DeGroote, Keith Kneppe and Glenn Johnson. Internment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the family. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Parkersburg, was in charge of arrangements

04/05/04

Funeral services for Bertha Rague Kraft, 89, of Greene, were held Wednesday, March 31, 2004, at the United Methodist Church in Greene with Pastor Ashok Patet officiating. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery in Charles City. Alberta Miller was born December 25, 1914, in rural Dumont, Butler County, the second child of Henry H. and Hattie (Gruis) Miller, and died Sunday March 28, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City. She was baptized on May 4, 1919, and received her education in the country schools near Dumont. She was united in marriage to Earle Everett Rague in December 1932 at the Reformed Church in Dumont. They made their home in Greene and to this union were born four children. Earle died October 24, 1967. On February 5, 1973, she was united in marriage to George Kraft at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. George died in October 1997. Bertha provided for her family through vegetable gardening, canning, cooking, with the memories of the flavors, smells, and warmth from her kitchen. She will be remembered as the lady with the green thumb. She worked countless hours on her flower garden, raising house plants, and keeping her home immaculate inside and out. She enjoyed traveling, shopping, and eating out at the Royal Fork and Bonanza. Bertha always said that she wasn’t going to die because she hadn’t started living. Living family members include her daughter: Eloise (Robert) O’Brien of Greene, three sons: Eugene (Deanna) Rague of Mason City, Donald (Phyllis) Rague of Charles City, Roger (Marlene) Rague of Phoenix, AZ; 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren; four sisters: Dena Hansen and Kathleen Schempf both of Lakewood, CO, Alice (John) Heinz of Charles City, and Lucille Hansen of Waterloo; two brothers: Daniel Miller of Greene and Les Miller of Portland. She was preceded in death by her two husbands, her parents; three brothers: William, Vernon, and Harry; and a grandson David Rague. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Bertha Rague Kraft Memorial Fund in care of the family.

04/05/04

Sievert C. Reints , age 92, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born the son of William and Etjedine Reints on July 4, 1911, in Butler County west of Clarksville. He was one of four children. In Sievert’s early years, he lived on a farm some five miles east of Clarksville. He was confirmed and remained a lifetime member at St. John Lutheran Church in Clarksville. He received his education and graduated from the Clarksville High School. After graduation he farmed with his dad for approximately 12 years. At age 28, Sievert was united in marriage with Mildred Moore on December 31, 1938 at St. John Lutheran Church Parsonage in Clarksville. They lived and farmed on the home place for about nine years. In 1946, Sievert and family moved to Clarksville where he was a well known livestock dealer for nearly 40 years. He served on the Clarksville School Board for several years. Sievert enjoyed spending time with his family, especially taking care of his granddaughters. He also enjoyed spending many hours at the sale barn On March 19, 2004, Sievert died at the Community Nursing Home in Clarksville, of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred; his parents; and two sisters, Elsa Swan and Catherine Wood. Sievert is survived by two sons, Bill of Oelwein, Iowa and Tom and his wife Jana of Webster City, Iowa; three granddaughters, Shauna Elliott and her husband, Mark of Webster City, Iowa, Teresa Fratzke and her husband, Kevin of Denver, Colorado, and Lisa Schwandt and her husband, Keith of Williams, Iowa; a great granddaughter, Adalie Schwandt of Williams, Iowa; one sister, Geraldine Bruggeman of Marble Rock, Iowa; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at St. John Lutheran Church, Clarksville, Iowa with Rev. David Nelson officiating. Organist was Glenda Timmer. Congregational Hymns were “In The Garden,” “Amazing Grace” and “What a Friend We Have In Jesus.” Casketbearers were Bob Dilly, Larry Voigts, Bob Wamsley, Louis Rogers, Wayne Rohlwing, Ted Sinram, Jr. and Ted Lovrien. Interment was in Lynwood Cemetery Clarksville, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

04/05/04

Donald Oscar Jenison, age 87, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born the son of Oscar Dayton and Anna Bornemann Jenison on August 29, 1916 in Belmond, Iowa He graduated from Belmond High School. Donald was united in marriage with Veda A. Curtis on August 9, 1936, in Albert Lea, Minnesota. The couple made their home in Waterloo, in New Hampton and moved to Clarksville in 1949. Donald was employed by I.P.S. in Waterloo, and at White Farm Equipment in Charles City. He farmed near Clarksville, while he worked at White’s and after, retiring from farming in 1999. Working and farming were his whole life as he so much enjoyed the challenge of the new seasons and producing a crop each year. He died Friday, March 26, 2004, at Waverly Municipal Hospital of natural causes. Donald is preceded in death by his wife, Veda; two sisters and three brothers. Donald is survived by two sons, Ronnie Jenison of Quay, New Mexico and Kent (Lee) Jenison of Clarksville, Iowa; one daughter, Linda (Larry) Boevers, Bradington, Florida; five grandchildren, Tony Jenison, Jamie Albrecht, Andi Popham, Mike Jenison, Laura Ross; and 11 great-grandchildren, Amanda, Dayton, Shelby, Emily, Lauren, Skyler, MaKenna, Reyna, Wiley, Bridget and Chloe. Memorial Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 30, 2004 at the Community United Methodist Church, Clarksville, Iowa with Pastor Ann Donat officiating. Organist Sharon Leerhoff accompanied Congregational Hymns “Amazing Grace,” “In The Garden” and “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.” Inurnment was in Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements.

04/05/04

Bertha Anna Duffield, age 95, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born February 4, 1909, the daughter of Thomas and Pauline Weidenbeck DeBower Arjes near Allison, Iowa. She graduated from Allison High School. Bertha was united in marriage with Harley Duffield on July 4, 1927 in Independence, Iowa. The couple made their home in Bristow, Iowa. Bertha was Postmaster in the Bristow Post Office for 20 years, retiring in 1976. She was a faithful member of the Church of Christ where she was involved in Women’s Fellowship. She was also active in a variety of community organizations including P.T.A., Music Boosters and the Cemetery Society in which she served for many years as President and Treasurer. She was a member of Rebekah Lodge and of the League of Postmasters. Bertha kept busy doing sewing and crafts and loved doing things for her family. She was known for her friendliness and her beautiful smile. Bertha died Tuesday, March 23, 2004, at Community Nursing Home in Clarksville, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harley on June 16, 1992; her parents, Thomas and Pauline Arjes; three sisters, Rena Wheeler, Louise Rambo and Anna Smith; one brother, John Arjes; one granddaughter, Roxann Huber and one great-granddaughter, Alaska Huber. She is survived by five daughters, Audrey (Bill) Rosenwinkle, Clarksville, Iowa; Dawn, (Gene) Bruhn, Clarksville, Iowa; Delores (Glenn) Siefken, Bristow, Iowa; Anita (Claude) Sabino, Peoria, Arizona; and Miriam Marshall, Scottsdale, Arizona; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one brother, August “Bud” Arjes, Clarksville; a sister-in-law, Mildred Fisher, Lawler, Iowa; special friends, Preston and Kathleen White, Aredale, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 26, 2004 at the Church of Christ, Clarksville, Iowa with Pastor Val Swinton and Pastor Glen Bandel officiating. A reading was done by Elizabeth Hoffman. Organist was Arlene Radcliffe. Vocalist Kelli Rosenwinkle sang “Beautiful Isle of Somewhere” and “Precious Memories.” Steve Lundh sang “Touch Through Me.” Congregational Hymn was “Until Then.” Ushers were Sheldon Cruse and Pete Jensen. Casketbearers were Tom Siefken, Mark Siefken, Randy Siefken, Steve Lundh, Jeff Lundh and Jim Duffield. Flower Committee was Jan Scally and Ethel Cruse. Internment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Bristow, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

                     Posted on 04/06/2004 by Gene Manning

04/10/04

Mary Anne Myers, 67, of Clarksville, Iowa, died Sunday, April 4, 2004, at the Waverly Health Center of natural causes. She was born on July 26, 1937, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Isaiah “Ike” and Beatrice (Fry) Kimberley. She attended school in Farrar, Iowa, and graduated from high school in 1956. On June 16, 1956, she was united in marriage to Max L. Myers in Maxwell, Iowa. The couple farmed near Maxwell and in 1960 moved to a farm near LaPorte City, Iowa. In 1968 they moved to a farm south of Parkersburg, and three years later they moved to their farm southwest of Shell Rock. Mary Anne then began driving dump truck for Assink Bros. Sand and Gravel in Cedar Falls, retiring in 1980. In 1995, Mary Anne and Max moved to their acreage south of Clarksville where they have since lived. Mary Anne loved to socialize and very much enjoyed it when friends would stop by the house. She was very proud of her service to Assink’s as a truck driver, a position that very few women held, and working over the years was enjoyment to her. Mary Anne’s greatest passion, though, was her family and especially her grandchildren whom she loved “unconditionally”. They could do no wrong. She is survived by her husband, Max, of Clarksville; her three daughters and their husbands, Kimberley & John Renfrow of Clarksville, Julie & Todd Williams of Hudson, Iowa, Connie & Jeff Assink of Shell Rock; eight grandchildren; one great granddaughter; one brother, Harry & Elaine Kimberley of Maxwell; three sisters, Helen Karpinski of Sussex, Wisconsin, Alice Kimberley of Lawrence, Kansas, and Ruth McGinnis of Marshalltown, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents; one granddaughter, Kristi Renfrow; and three brothers, John, Frank, Boyd and Melvin Kimberley. Celebration of Life Services will be 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 8, 2004, at First United Church of Christ-Pleasant Valley, rural Clarksville, with Pastor Anne Sunday officiating. Her body was cremated and the burial of the cremains will take place at a later date in Maxwell. The family will greet friends on Wednesday from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home, Shell Rock. Memorials may be directed to the Pleasant Valley Church Elevator Fund.

04/10/04

David M. Sistrunk, 52, of West Liberty, IA formerly of Ainsworth, died Thursday, March 25, 2004 at Genesis East Medical Center in Davenport, IA from complications following surgery. David was born May 2, 1951, in Iowa City, the son of W. Ray and Mary Crawford Sistrunk. He graduated from Highland High School in 1969. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict, serving as a medic in Okinawa, and later was in the U.S. Army Reserves. He was married to Susan Pittenger on January 6, 1978, in Iowa City. He graduated from the physician assistant program at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 1978. He worked as a physician’s assistant in Allison, Muscatine, and most recently at the VA Hospital in Iowa City. He is survived by his wife, Susan, of West Liberty; two sons, Josh Sistrunk and Gabe Sistrunk of West Libery; his mother, Mary Sistrunk of Columbus Junction; and a brother, Bill (Jane) Sistrunk of Doyline, Louisiana. He was preceded in death by his father, W. Ray Sistrunk and brother, Steve Sistrunk. Graveside services were held Monday, March 29, at the North Prairie Cemetery, West Liberty. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army. Barker Funeral Home in West Liberty was in charge of arrange-ments. Sues address is 2183 Eureka Ave., West Liberty, IA 52776.

04/10/04

Stanley Joseph Roose, Sr., 88, passed away March 29, 2004, in the Allison Health Care Center, Allison Iowa. Stanley was born on July 14, 1915, in rural Allison, Iowa to George and Mary (Frerichs) Roose. He attended Jackson #4 country school. He graduated from Allison High School in 1933. After graduation, Stanley went to work for Leland Harms All Gas Company running the tank wagon and doing the bookkeeping. In 1940, Stanley got the opportunity to purchase the Phillips 66 bulk plant, tank wagon and station in Eable Grove, IA. His brother Lyle helped him get the business going until Lyle was drafted into the service. On December 21, 1940, he married Elizabeth M. Speedy at the church parsonage of St. John’s Luthern Church, Clarksville, Iowa. In 1943 Stanley decided to begin farming on the family farm near Bristow, Iowa. Stanly was drafted into the Army Air Force serving in Atlantic City until July 1, 1943, when he was granted an honorable discharge so he could get back to farming. He semi retired from farming in 1988. He was a member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Vilmar and a member of Hilltop Lakes Chapel in Hilltop Lakes, Texas. He was actively involved at the Vilmar Church, a past director of Bennezette #7 country school, a past president of the Aredale Co-op, a member of the Round Grove Golf and Country Club Greene, and Hilltop Lake Country Club, a member of the Hilltop Lakes Property Owners Association and the Lions Club of Hilltop Lakes, Texas. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and wood working during his younger days. He loved golf and played weekly up until his 87th birthday. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Roose of Allison; two daughters: Mary Roose Miller of Cedar Rapids and Susan (Doug) Marsh of Greene; a son: Stanley (Sandy) Roose, Jr. of Bristow; a sister: Marion Roose Pullin of Phoenix, Arizona; three brothers: Lyle (Beverly) Roose of Clarksville, brother Donald (Faith) Roose of Allison and brother George (Lois) Roose of Allison. Grandchildren are Marin (Rick) Schmitt, Kirstin J. Miller, Angela (Darrell) Hobbs, Faber W. Miller; Tina (Kurt) Graven, Daniel (Sara) Marsh, Amy (John) Teeple; Kurt (Pam) Roose, Tim (Jody) Roose, DeAnn (Jim) Feltz and Travis (Christy) Roose. Great grandchildren are Dylan, Aleena, Dallas, Joseph, Sarah; Dalton, Taylor, Carson, Paige, Claire, Lauren, Maxwell, Elli, Anna; Kyle, Danielle, Justine, Megan, Darian, Jackson, Isaac; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Viola, one brother Daniel in infancy and a great grandson Jamie. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Apirl 2, 2004 at St. John’s EV. Lutheran Church, rural Greene, Iowa with Rev. Mark Walker officiating. Special music was provided by organist Florence Vieker accom-panying soloist Bill Thompson. Pallbearers were Kurt Roose, Tim Roose, Faber Miller, Dylan Miller, Travis Roose and Kyle Roose. Honorary pallbearers were Gene Reser, Darrel Barth, Doug Walker, Pete Sinram, Ralph Marsh and Ernie DeBower. Final resting place was in St. John’s EV. Lutheran Cemetery, rural Greene, Iowa. Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

04/10/04

Dean Hagerty, 78, of Moses Lake, WA. formerly of Allison died Monday, March 29, 2004 at his home. He was born on August 3, 1925 in Sibley, IA. Survivors include his wife Russie; five chidlren and one brother Glenn Hagerty of Allison, IA.

                   Posted on 04/12/2004 by Gene Manning

04/18/04

Dennis “Denny” Edward McGeachy of Sioux City passed out of this life and into the next, on Wednesday, April 7, 2004 at the Sioux City Hospital. He was 58 years old. Denny was born on November 21, 1945, to Darrell “Scotty” and Naomi McGeachy, at the Hampton Hospital, Hampton, Iowa. He attended grade school at Bristow and then graduated from Allison-Bristow High School. Denny served in the Army for 2 years. Part of his tour of duty was done in Germany. He began working at Chamberlin Trailer Mfg. in Hampton in the mid ’60s. Later, he transferred to Wilson Trailer Co. in Sioux City, Iowa, continuing employment there until Wednesday, April 7, 2004. Denny loved technology, working with computers and T.V. (Especially “Gun Smoke” and anything to do with John Wayne.) He was an artist with woodworking. He was an excellent business man and had more “common sense” than is common to men. Denny had a quiet respect and love for the rest of us. He was married to Patricia Colette Engman on February 3, 1973 in Hampton, Iowa. Denny fought valiantly for life for two weeks, following a massive heart attack. He passed away peacefully, Wednesday evening. Denny is survived by his wife of 31 years, Patricia Colette (Engman) McGeachy; former wife, Marilyn Snitjer; Mother Naomi McGeachy; son: Jeffrey Scott McGeachy and his wife, Teri; along with Denny’s grandson Connor Scott McGeachy. Also here to morn his loss: Aunt Mary Panttila, Uncle James Allen and Aunt June Gibson. He had many nephews, nieces, cousins and scores of friends. Funeral services were at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont, Iowa with Pastor James Pointer of Sioux City Baptist Church officiating. Military graveside service was by the Dumont Legion. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery in Bristow, Iowa. Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont was in charge of arrangements.

04/18/04

Lewis Lutjen Gerloff, 54, of Clarksville, Iowa, died Saturday, April 3, 2004, at the Waverly Hospital in Waverly, Iowa, of natural causes. Lewis was born August 27, 1949, the son of George and Leta (Beenken) Gerloff near Holland, Iowa. He graduated from Clarksville High School in 1967 and then entered the United States Army serving in Vietnam. After his time in the Army, Lewis worked as a corrections officer in Anamosa, Iowa, and then went to work as a bridge carpenter for many years. He returned to Clarksville and worked as a farm hand for the Severs family. He was preceded in death by his parents, and an infant brother, Olen Thomas Gerloff. Lewis is survived by his two sons, Lewis Gerloff of Omaha, Nebraska and Dale Gerloff of Eldon, Iowa; and two brothers, Gerald Gerloff and his family of Junction City, Kansas, and Gary Gerloff and his family of Churdan, Iowa. Funeral services were held April 7, 2004 at the United Methodist Church in Grundy Center, Iowa with Pastor Lee Webb officiating. Burial was in Rose Hill Cemetery, Grundy Center, with Military Rites conducted by the American Legion Post #349 and AMVETS Post #17. Pallbearers were Dale Gerloff, Lewis Gerloff, Gerald Gerloff, Gary Gerloff, Steve Henning, and Lee Patterson. Engelkes-Abels Funeral Home, Grundy Center, was in charge of arrangements.

04/18/04

Leona Hoffman, age 91, of Aplington, Iowa, was born November 30, 1912, the daughter of Lammert and Lena DeWeerodt Hoffman at their home in rural Grundy County, Iowa, near Buck Grove township. Leona lived and worked most of her life on the Hoffman farm until moving to Parkersburg in 1972. She loved to work on the farm, especially with her flowers and very much enjoyed the cats on the farm. She was a member of the Aplington Baptist Church. She enjoyed getting together with her family and loved to play cards with nieces and nephews. Leona died Friday April 9, 2004, after a short stay at Maple Manor Care Center of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; John, Louis, and two died in infancy; one sister, Vera Hoffman and one niece, Lisa Schultz. Leona is survived by; one brother, Carl (Bert) Hoffman, of Parkersburg, Iowa; one sisters, Ethel Avery, Aplington, Iowa; four nieces, Norleen Willis, Ivadeen Proffitt, Charlotte Miller and Ester Gonnerman; one nephew, Paul Hoffman. Funeral Service were held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at the Aplington Baptist Church, Aplington, Iowa with Pastor Dan Smith officiating. OrganistLois Wessels accompanied Congregational Hymns “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace.” Casketbearers were Bruce Badgley, Bill Cooper, Kevin Rogers, Jim Cooper Kelly Lamgholz and Arnie Finch. Honorary Casketbearers were Mike Mulder, Doug Proffitt, Paul Willis, Dean Proffitt and Chuck Miller. Interment was in Pleasant View Cemetery, Aplington, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Parkersburg, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

04/18/04

Funeral services for Paul A. Schrage, 68, Marble Rock, will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 16, 2004, at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, Vilmar, rural Greene, with Rev. Mark Walker officiating. Interment will be 1:00 p.m. Friday at Hillside Cemetery in Marble Rock. Visitation will be 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, April 15, at Reid’s Funeral Chapel in Greene and will continue Saturday at the church one hour before services. Paul Andrew Schrage was born June 4, 1935, rural Plainfield, Butler County, a son of Abel Johnson and Anna (Hinders) Schrage, and died Monday, April 12, 2004, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital under the care of Hospice. He received his education in the rural Butler County schools and graduated from Plainfield High School in 1954. He was united in marriage to Janice Ries at the Little Brown Church on January 12, 1955. To this union were born four children. Paul was employed by Oliver-White Farm Equipment for 30 years and later drove Winnebago Motor Homes after the plant shut down. He drove a school bus for the Greene Community School District for eight years and farmed several years in the Greene area. He was last employed by Allied Construction until his health forced him to retire on September 24, 2003. He lived a simple and private life with his family being the most important part of it all. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Janice of Marble Rock; two daughters: Deb (Rich) Kock and Cindy (Mike) Steere, both of Greene; daughter-in-law: Terry Schrage of Greene; seven grandchildren: Andrea (Jason) Webster of Charles City, Shannon (Nate) Trees, and Allyson Kock, all of Greene, Douglas (Jessica) Schrage of Manly, Samantha Schrage, Caitlyn and Morgan Steere, all of Greene; three great-grandchildren: Bryce and Brooke Trees and Caden Schrage; one sister: Wilma (Lloyd) Hodge of Cedar Falls, and a stepbrother: Kenny Rover of Greene. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles: Elizabeth (Lawrence) Liddle of Plainfield, Albert Schrage of Clarksville, William (Genevieve) Schrage of Waverly, and Lester Rover of Greene. He leaves to join his parents and two sons: Michael Paul Schrage, who died October 20, 1964, and Bradley Schrage who died January 7, 2001. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral Chapel, 519 North First Street, Greene, 641-823-4457.

04/18/04

Lela Joan Meyer Orr, age 73, of Aplington, Iowa, was born March 22, 1931, the daughter of Henry W. and Edith Tjabben Meyer at their home in rural Aplington. She received her education from the country school near her home, often referred to as “Old Crooked School.” Lela was united in marriage with Robert Orr on January 18, 1955, in the home of her parents. For five years they made their home in Waterloo and Cedar Falls. In 1960, they moved to Aplington where she resided until her death. In the winter of 1952, Lela received salvation and the assurance of eternal life through the truth of 1 Peter 2:24 that the Lord Jesus bore her sins on Calvary’s tree. Shortly thereafter, she was received into the assembly fellowship at the Hitesville Gospel Hall. She faithfully participated in the assembly activities until her health hindered her the last few years. Lela’s life was characterized by service to others. Foremost, she was a faithful helpmate to her husband and a wonderful mother to her four children. She capably managed the home, children and daily activities while her husband was away with gospel efforts. For many years Lela babysat numerous children in her home. She delivered many meals, visited, called and performed many tasks as encouragement to others. As her health deteriorated, her outreach to others was through calls and cards. The last few years, daily activities became daily challenges. She still loved to laugh and nothing brought a smile to her face more than a visit or call from one of her grandchildren. Lela departed from this life on April 3, 2004, after a short stay at Sartori Memorial Hospital in Cedar Falls of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother-in-law, Arend Abbas and one nephew. Lela is survived by her husband, Robert Orr, Aplington, Iowa; one son, Jerry Orr, Aplington, Iowa; three daughters, Lois (Michael) Wenger, Brodhead, Wisconsin; Vicki (Rick) Johnson, Dunkerton, Iowa; Verlene Orr, Janesville, Wisconsin; eight grandchildren, Erica, Zachary, Jessica, Brianna Wenger and Lael, Lyndsey, Rylan and Lanae Johnson; one brother, Ervin (Mildred) Meyer, Aplington, Iowa; two sisters, Eunice Abbas, Aplington; Shirley (Herman) Luhring, Parkersburg, Iowa and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 8, 2004, at the Hitesville Gospel Hall, Aplington, Iowa with Mr. Russell Nesbit, Mr. Eric McCullough and Mr. Roy Weber officiating. The Vocal Group, Glory Bound Singers, sang “Blessed Assurance” and “Where The Roses Never Fade”. Congregational Hymn was “How Great Thou Art.” Ushers were Wesley Swieter, Kenny Tack and Earl DeVries. Casketbearers were Jake Koop, Dan Abbas, Loren Meyer, Charles Meyer Scott Anderson and John Orr. Interment was in Hitesville Cemetery rural Aplington, Iowa where the hymn “What A Day That Will Be” was part of the service. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

04/18/04

Richard A. Silva Richard “Rick” Andrew Silva, age 62, from Clarksville, Iowa, was born the son of Guadalupe (Wally) and Martha Martinez Silva on November 30, 1941 in Mission, Texas. He graduated from East High School in Waterloo, Iowa in 1960. Rick joined the United States Army and served from 1960 to 1962. He went into the Air Force April 30, 1962 through 1966 and served in Viet Nam. He worked for John Deere Tractor Works in Waterloo as an inspector for 30 years, retiring in 1996. Rick moved to Clarksville in 1990 and lived along the Shell Rock River. Rick was united in marriage with Sandra Jacobs Ferrell on May 10, 2003, at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Clarksville. The couple made their home in Clarksville following their marriage. He loved fishing and hunting and enjoyed spending time at the cabin in Harpers Ferry. Time spent with family and friends was also very special to him. Rick died Friday, April 9, 2004 at Waverly Health Care Center of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his father, Wally Silva. He is survived by his wife, Sandra; his mother, Martha Aguilar, Clarksville; one step-son, Brian (Kristen) Jacobs and one step-daughter, Shelbie (Garrett) Schmidt, all of Clarksville; three grandchildren, Bryce and Kayla Jacobs and Ethan Schmidt; one brother, Ben (Carla) Silva, Clarksville; father-in-law, Vern Jacobs, Clarksville; many nieces and nephews and his special friend, Sadie. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at Immanuel United Church of Christ, Clarksville, Iowa with Pastor David Walters officiating. Organist was Sharon Leerhoff. Vocalist Jolene Engel sang “Go Rest High On the Mountain.” Congregational Hymns were “In the Garden,” “Old Rugged Cross” and “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.” Casketbearers were Jay Silva, Craig Jacobs,Rick Silva, Butch Jacobs, Joe Silva and Don Jacobs. Honorary Casketbearers were Todd Cayler, Randy Cayler, Don Schaefer and James Retzloff. Interment was in Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville, Iowa with Military Rites conducted by Clarksville AMVETs Post #30. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

04/18/04

Walter “Dick” Richard Poland, age 80, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born the son of Walter Eugene and Hilda Marie (Thompson) Poland on March 21, 1924, Gladbrook, Iowa. He graduated from the Gladbrook High School in 1942. He continued his education for a year at business school in Chillicothe, Missouri. Dick served in the United States Army from 1943 - 1946, during World War II. For the next 29 years he served in the United States Army Reserve. On August 17, 1947, Dick was united in marriage with Reua Dell Rhoads at the Community United Methodist Church in Clarksville, Iowa. They made their home in Clarksville until they moved to Hansell, Iowa in 1954. In 1963, Dick and Dell moved back to Clarksville. Dick worked for the Chicago Great Western Rail Road as a telegrapher and a depot agent for 38 years, retiring in 1984. Dick also ran the local milk route for many years. Dick was a member of the Community United Methodist Church in Clarksville. He served on the Clarksville City Council and was a former Mayor of Clarksville. Dick was an avid fisherman, hunter and trapper. He enjoyed gardening. Dick died on Tuesday, April 6, 2004, at home, of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Laurence in infancy and Lloyd. Dick is survived by his wife, Dell Poland of Clarksville; five sons, Tom Poland of Clarksville, Barry Poland of Clarksville, Jed (Paulette) Poland of Cedar Falls, Todd (Teresa) Poland of Hampton and Jon Poland of Minneapolis, Minnesota; three grandchildren, four step-grandchildren; and seven step-great grandchildren; one brother Cliff (Dorothy) Poland of Rockwell, Iowa; and one sister-in-law, Arlene Poland Defore of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 9, 2004, at the Community United Methodist Church Clarksville, Iowa. Officiating the service were Rev. Ann Donat and Pastor Allen Poore-Christensen. The organist was Sharon Leerhoff, the soloist was Allen Poore-Christensen and he san “Amazing Grace.” The congregational hymns were “In The Garden” and “The Old Rugged Cross.” The Honorary Casketbearers were Gary Booher, Marlin Hinders, Danny Vance, Leon Wamsley and Leland “Red” Metz. The Casketbearers were Roger Clark, Gay Hempen, Kenneth Vance, Jeramiah Poland, Trinity Poland and Allen Poore-Christensen. Inurnment 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 the family

04/18/04

It is with great regret that we report the passing of Albert P. Kramer, known to many as Bobby. Born on the farm near Ackley, Iowa on December 2, 1932 to Peter J. and Clara (Hoppe) Kramer. He passed away on April 1, 2004 in Artesia, California. He attended rural school at Washington Township #3, and later in Dumont, where he graduated from high school in 1951. He served in the military, in the U.S. Army, spending some time in Germany. Upon discharge, he attended Iowa State University, and later the trade school, DeVry’s and then began a long and successful career in Microwave Technology, working for Scientific Atlanta. He lived in Annadale, MD, Atlanta, GA, Carmel, IN, Derry, NH, and lastly in Artesia, CA. He traveled extensively in the United States, frequently passing through Iowa and California to visit his family. He also traveled to South America for Scientific Atlanta. He was widely read and interested in politics, pursued many conservative causes. He continued to further his education after retirement and attended classes in the field of computers. He had a keen mind and a wonderful sense of humor, loved nothing better than a lively political discussion. He brought his sisters into the world of the internet by gifting them with computers also. Albert was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jon, sister Gladys and niece Patrica Witt, and twin brothers in infancy. He is survived by his sisters Arlene Trautman of Marshalltown, and Rachel Early of Cameron Park, CA and his nieces and nephews, Karen and Bernard Freese, Peggy and John Wedeking, Steven Kramer, Nancy and Steve Morris, Lynn and Bob Koenigs, David and Annie Trautman, Dianne Trautman, Jennifer and Jason Kern and Sue Witt. He was known to the family as “the uncle” and his presence will be sadly missed. He treasured many things in his life time, especially his family. His passing leaves a gap that cannot be filled. His was a unique and special part of everyone’s life. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, April 8, 2004 at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont with Rev. Terra Amundson officiating. Pallbearers were Jason Kern, Eric Freese, Forrest Kramer, Steven Kramer, Dianne Trautman and John Wedeking. Final resting place was in the Washington Reformed Church Cemetery, rural Ackley, Iowa. Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

04/18/04

Milton Joel Kramer, Lawton, was born June 23, 1947 in Waterloo, Iowa to Clifford Kramer and Gertrude (Haats) Kramer. He attended school in Aplington and Eldora Iowa. In 1964 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served as a Boiler Technician until his discharge in 1968. During his service he met and was married to Michelle (Anderson) Kramer. From this union came four children Shelly (Codner), Troy (T.J.), Susie (Casarez) and Tammy (Nuckolls). Milt married Donna Seargent (Runt) in September 2000. Milt and Donna spent many hours enjoying each other’s company, being with friends, taking motorcycle trips, including benefit rides for a cause close to Milt’s heart, ill children. Milt became ill in January 2004, however, he persisted in living his final days to the fullest. His last two months overflowed with love as Milt spent precious moments creating special memories with his family and friends including special trips to one of Milt’s favorite locations, the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge. The day before Milt was called home, he was able to take one final motorcycle ride to this special place. Milt was called home at 11:43, April 4, 2004. He was preceded in glory by his parents and is survived by his wife, Donna, two brothers Dennis and his wife Jenny of Aplington, Iowa, Rod and his special friend Bev Masse of Charles City, Iowa. His children, Shelly and her husband John of Dumont, Iowa, T.J. and his wife Kristie of Marshalltown, Iowa, Susie and her husband Roland of Phoenix, Arizona, Tammy and her husband Darren, of Early Iowa and Dorie and her husband Tom, of Dover Delaware and twelve grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Becker Funeral Home Chapel at 1502 Fort Sill Blvd, Lawton, Oklahoma at 4:00 p.m. on April 6, 2004. A family graveside service will be held on Friday, April 9, 2004 at Pleasant View Cemetery in rural Aplington, Iowa. Friends are asked to join the family in a fellowship dinner at the Allison Amvets from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 9, 2004.

                     Posted on 04/19/2004 by Gene Manning

04/26/04

Walter V. Niemeyer, 71, of Shell Rock, Iowa, died Monday morning, April 19, 2004, at his home of natural causes. Walter was born on August 11, 1932, in Wycoff, Minnesota, the son of Walter and Verna (Chinnow) Niemeyer. He attended school in Waltham, Minnesota, through the eighth grade. Following school he helped his grandfather on the farm until being drafted during the Korean War. He served in the Army from 1953 until being honorably discharged in 1955. After the war, Walter moved to Clarksville where he worked at Chamberlin’s Manufacturing and Clay Manufacturing. Walter later began working as a mechanic in Shell Rock for several years until he went to work for the Rock Island Railroad and the Iowa Northern Railroad where he worked for 20 years. After retiring from the railroad in 1991, Walter enjoyed his free time collecting radios. Walter enjoyed boating, collecting radios, his two dogs, and especially spending time with his family and friends. Walter is survived by his wife, Grace of Shell Rock; one son Michael and his wife Erin of Osage; one granddaughter, Brianna of Osage; and one sister, Donna Hughes of Aplington. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. Graveside services were held Wednesday, April 21, 2004, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Nashua with Pastor Keith Tomlinson officiating. Memorials may be directed to the family. Kaiser-Corson Funeral Homes, Inc., were in charge of arrangements.

04/26/04

Grace E. Van Ellen, age 82, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born the daughter of Henry and Henrietta Petersen Van Ellen on May 25, 1921, near Parkersburg. She received her education in the Stout School. Grace was an active member of the Reformed Church of Stout where she taught Sunday School, helped with Vacation Bible School and helped in many ways. She loved working with the ladies fellowship of the church. Grace worked with her brother, Henry, on the farm where she took care of the cattle and cats. She babysat for many people through the years. Grace enjoyed gardening with her mother and loved to crochet. Grace died Tuesday, April 13, 2004, at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Henry Van Ellen on June 2, 1995. Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 16, 2004, at the Reformed Church of Stout, Stout, Iowa. Officiating was Rev. David Powers, the organist was Elaine Schnell, the congregational hymns were “Amazing Grace” and “Old Rugged Cross.” The Casketbearers were Ted Junker, Don Miller, Vernett Fink, Paul Klingenborg, Doyle Klingenborg and Daran Klingenborg. Interment was at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkesburg were in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the Reformed Church of Stout, Stout, IA.

                      Posted on 04/27/2004 by Gene Manning