07/04/04

Sandra Kay Rhodes, age 62, of Hampton, Iowa, was born May 22, 1942, the daughter of Irving and Esther Luppen Leerhoff in Hampton, Iowa. She graduated from Allison-Bristow High School in 1960. Sandy was united in marriage with Edgar Rhodes on August 4, 1963 in Iuke, Mississippi. The couple made their home in Clarksville and moved to Hampton in 1978. Sandy was a member of the Lighthouse of Life in Hampton where she took part in the Praise of Worship Team. She was a great artist, mother and grandmother. Sandra very much enjoyed playing guitar, painting, running and biking. She had earned a black belt in Taiquando. Sandy was known for characters which she drew and on which she presented programs. Her life centered around her love for her family. Sandra died Saturday, June 26, 2004, at her home in Hampton of complications of cancer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Irving and Esther Leerhoff and by an infant brother. She is survived by her husband, Ed Rhodes, Hampton, Iowa; one son, James Rhodes, Hampton, Iowa; three daughters, Rebecca (Jim) Schipper, Mason City, Iowa; Susan Olmstead, Lake Mills, Iowa and Nancy Rhodes, Hampton, Iowa; and six grandchildren, Mike and Josh Schipper and Lisa, Angie, Christopher and Chance Rhodes and one brother, Paul (Lucille) Leerhoff, Clarksville, Iowa. Funeral Services were held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, Iowa with Pastor David Walters officiating. Keyboard music was provided by Betty Reed and Vocalist Harold Reed sang ”He Raised Me Up” and “How Great Thou Art.” Readings were done by Angie Rhodes and Jim Rhodes. Casketbearers were James Rhodes, Joshua Schipper, Michael Schipper, Chris Rhodes, Chance Rhodes and Alan Leerhoff. Interment was in Lowell Cemetery, rural Clarksville, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

07/04/04

Joyce Faye Hinders, age 65, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born December 2, 1938, the daughter of Alfred and Lenora Molendorp Buss in Parkersburg, Iowa She was baptized October 28, 1951 and confirmed April 6, 1952, both in Bethel Lutheran Church in Parkersburg, Iowa. She graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1956. Joyce was united in marriage with James Hinders on December 12, 1958, at Bethel Lutheran Church in Parkersburg, Iowa. The couple lived in Clarksville for a few years after their marriage. Later they moved to Parkersburg for about a year then returned to Clarksville where they have lived since that time. Joyce was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Clarksville where she also attended the Ladies Circle. Joyce did daycare for many children in her home for years. She liked to play bingo and cards. She liked to work crossword puzzles and enjoyed reading. Time spent with the grandchildren was always special to her. Joyce died Wednesday, June 23, 2004, at Covenant Medical Center, Waterloo, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred (Bud) and Lenora Buss; one brother, Bennie Buss and one nephew, Kelvin Buss. She is survived by her husband James “Jim” Hinders, Clarksville, Iowa; two daughters, Kelly Hinders and Kerri (Chris) White, both of Clarksville, Iowa; three sons, Keith (Val) Hinders, Clarksville, Iowa; Kent (Lynn) Hinders, Hampton, Iowa; Kevin (Julie) Hinders, Cedar Falls, Iowa; ten grandchildren; four brothers, Gary Buss, Marvin “Bo” Buss, Joel Buss, Mark Buss; eight sisters, Bonnie Walters, Dee Scheidecker, Renee Yost, Karen Weber, Peggy Miller, Jann Wiegman, Kathy Miller and Cindy Henning. Funeral Services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 26, 2004 at St. John Lutheran Church, Clarksville, Iowa, with Pastor Paul Schaedig officiating. Organist Deb Knudson accompanied Congregational Hymns “Amazing Grace,” “Borning Cry” and “How Great Thou Art.” Casketbearers were Kurt Walters, Jeremy Buss, Jeff Yost, Joshua Weber, Tony Scheidecker and Chris Greenlee. Honorary Casketbearers were Joyce’s Grandchildren Kayla, Zachariah, Benjamin, Ashley, Tyler, Seth, Paige, Caleb, Kyle and Bryce. Interment was in Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

07/04/04

Etta Eiklenborg Borneman, age 89, of Aplington, Iowa, was born June 24, 1914, the daughter of Anton and Lena Rewerts Reiter on her parent’s farm in rural Grundy County, Iowa. She received her education in a rural school near her home. Etta married Joe Eiklenborg in December, 1935 in Waterloo, Iowa. The couple first lived on a farm near Stout where Joe was a hired man. They moved to Aplington in 1944. Joe died November 10, 1952. Etta married Carl Borneman March 1, 1974 at First Reformed Church in Aplington. Carl died March 23, 2001. Etta was a member of First Reformed Church, Aplington where she had been part of the Ladies Guild. Etta did housecleaning and care giving. She was a homemaker and loved to sew, especially making clothes for the grandchildren. She enjoyed fishing, baking and cooking, embroidery, reading and growing gladiolas and other flowers. Her hobbies included collecting dolls and watching birds out of her front window. Etta died Sunday, June 20, 2004, at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her husbands; her parents; two brothers, Fred and Lawrence Reiter and one sister, Alma Bergmann. She is survived by two sons, Norman (Sylvia) Eiklenborg, Aplington, Iowa and Clarence (Marjorie) Eiklenborg, Parkersburg, Iowa; seven grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren; two brothers, LeRoy (Sydney) Reiter, Shell Rock, Iowa; Alvin (Betty) Reiter, Ackley, Iowa; three sisters, Gertie Luhring, Cedar Falls, Iowa; Jeanetta Meester, Holland, Iowa and Esther (Richard) Eisentrager, Dumont, Iowa. Funeral Services were held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, June 24, 2004, at the First Reformed Church, Aplington, Iowa with Rev. Harlan DeJong officiating. Organist Marilyn Poppens accompanied Congregational Hymns “Old Rugged Cross,” “In the Garden” and “Amazing Grace.” Casketbearers were Jerald Eiklenborg, David Eiklenborg, David Helm, Michael Eiklenborg, Alan Eiklenborg and James Wolff. Honorary Casketbearers were Brian Wolff, LaVern Wolff and Jason Helm. Interment was in Pleasant View Cemetery, Aplington, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

                  Posted on 07/05/2004 by Gene Manning

07/17/04

Funeral services for Maxine Hoodjer, age 85, of Clarksville, Iowa, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, July 16, 2004, at St. John Lutheran Church, with burial in the Lynwood Cemetery, both in Clarkville. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday at the Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Clarksville. 319-278-4245. Maxine died Monday, July 12, 2004, at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo from a stroke and heart attack. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

07/17/04

Margaret F. Smith, age 90, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born April 12, 1914, the daughter of George and Maliena Behrends Feckers in Grundy County, Iowa. She received her education in a country school near her home. Margaret was united in marriage with Edward Smith on February 12, 1938, in Northwood, Iowa. The couple lived in Aplington for five years, then moved to Parkersburg. She worked for 15 years at Rath Packing Plant in Waterloo, then was a nurse’s aid at the Grundy Center Nursing Home for 13 years. Later she was in housekeeping at the Western Home in Cedar Falls until she retired. Margaret was in fellowship with Christians at the Hitesville Gospel Hall, rural Aplington. She was saved November 3, 1947 when attending meetings in the Community House in Parkersburg, Iowa conducted by Leonard DeBoer and George Goel. Margaret loved their dog, Missy. She enjoyed the RV camping and fishing trips she and Edward took through the years. Most of all, she loved the time spent with their grandchildren. Margaret died Sunday, July 4, 2004, at the Grundy County Memorial Hospital Long Term Care Center, Grundy Center, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Sena Feckers as a child and Grace Gersema; four brothers, Claus, Henry, Richard and Willie Feckers; and two half-brothers, George Gerdes and Dirk Feckers. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Edward Smith, Parkersburg, Iowa; one son, Ronald K . (Carol) Smith, Parkersburg, Iowa; one daughter, Carol VanEllen, Parkersburg, Iowa; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; two sisters, Sena DeVries, Aplington, Iowa; Iowa and Marie Arends, Clarence, Iowa; one brother, Fred (Minnie) Feckers, Clarksville, Iowa and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday at Hitesville Gospel Hall, with burial in Hitesville Cemetery, both rural Aplington. Speakers were Russell Nesbit and Leonard DeBoer. Hymns were “How Great Thou Art,” “In Times Like These” and “Amazing Grace.” Casketbearers were Gary DeVries, Dan Feckers, David VanEllen, Justin Byers, Donny Fergerson, Mike Horstman and Shawn Terrill. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Parkersburg, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

07/17/04

John Lewis Claassen, age 77, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born the son of John and Lena (Trey) Claassen on August 21, 1926, in Harrold, South Dakota. At the age of 10 the family moved to Parkersburg, Iowa. He received his education and graduated from the Parkersburg High School in 1943. John served in the United States Army during World War II from 1944 – 1946. During this time he was overseas in Japan and the Philippines. On October 22, 1949, John was united in marriage with Claradean Meents at the Colfax Center Presbyterian Church. They made their home for a short time in Waterloo, Iowa, where John worked for John Deere. The following February they moved and began farming west of New Hartford, Iowa. Through the years they also farmed in Butler and Grundy Counties. In 1986 they moved to their present home in Parkersburg and John retired from farming in 1988. John was an active and faithful member of the First Congregational Church in Parkersburg. He taught Sunday School for 30 years, and served as a Deacon and Elder for many years. He loved the time he spent with his family, the years of farming and many functions at their church. He especially enjoyed his time together with Claradean when they moved to town. They enjoyed raising flowers together. John died Monday, June 28, 2004, at the Maple Manor Care Center in Aplington, Iowa, from natural causes. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother in infancy. John is survived by his wife, Claradean of Parkersburg, Iowa; two sons, Rev. David (Diann) Claassen of Temperance, Michigan, Mark (Sheila) Claassen of Parkersburg, Iowa; one daughter, Rhonda (Edward) Parker of Urbandale, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Julie (Victor) Zaragoza, Dan (Teri) Claassen, Sarah Claassen, Tracy (Joe) Neymeyer, Jason Parker, Ryan (Laura) Parker, and Heather Parker; six great grandchildren, Terrace, Angelica, Diana, Martha, Josiah, and Caleb. Funeral Services were held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, July 1, 2004, at the First Congregational Church, Parkersburg, Iowa with Rev. Ron Bartlett officiating. Pianist was Jean Bass. Congregational Hymns were “How Great Thou Art,” “Battle Hymn Of The Republic” and “Oh That Would Be Glory.” Casketbearers were Ryan Parker, Joe Neymeyer, Derrick Williams, Brody Thomas, Ed Thomas and Joe Wallbaum. Interment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg, Iowa with Full Military Rites conducted by Parkersburg American Legion Post #285. Flower Committee was Freda Wallbaum and Janice Johnson Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Parkersburg, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

07/17/04

Gertrude Beitelmann, age 88, of Parkersburg, was born the daughter of Hilko and Meraka Hempen Siebrands on May 7, 1916, in Holland, Iowa. She received her education in Holland. Gertrude was baptized and confirmed in the Salem Lutheran Church in rural Parkersburg. Gertrude was united in marriage with Tole Beitelmann on January 9, 1935, in the parsonage of the Salem Lutheran Church. They lived and farmed north of Parkersburg after marriage. Gertrude and Tole retired from farming in 1973 and moved to their new home in Parkersburg. Gertrude was a past member of the Salem Lutheran Church until 1986 when the church closed. She was presently a member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Parkersburg where she helped make quilts with the ladies of the church. Gertrude enjoyed playing Bingo and cards. She often met with friends for breakfast and coffee at the Marian’s Café. Gertrude loved her family and especially enjoyed when they would come for visits. She felt fortunate to have lived for the birth of her great-great grandson. Gertrude died Saturday, June 26, 2004, at the Allen Memorial Hospital following a short illness. She was preceded in death by her husband, Tole Beitelmann, January 1, 1986; two grandsons, Kenley DeBoer and Bradley Rasmussen; one granddaughter, Jill Ridder; four sisters, Hilka Siefken, Minnie Schafer, Bena Ridder and Carrie Brandt; two infant brothers and a son-in-law, Chris G. Ridder. Gertrude is survived by her three daughters, Hermine (Dan) Schwickerath, Aplington, Iowa, Marian DeBoer, Parkersburg, Iowa, Evelyn Rasmussen, Aplington, Iowa; seven grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; five step grandchildren; 15 step great grandchildren; and four step great-great grandchildren. Funeral Services were held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 29, 2004, at Bethel Lutheran Church, Parkersburg, Iowa with Rev. Paul Schaedig officiating. Organist Janet Mennen accompanied Congregational Hymns “Lord Take My Hand and Lead Me,” ”How Great Thou Art” and ”Go Now in Peace.” Honorary Casketbearers were Charisse Scott and Kimberly Junker. Casketbearers were Terry Ridder, Brent Ridder, Tracey Rasmussen, Darcy Rasmussen, Dalon DeBoer and Dan Schwickerath. 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.

07/17/04

Anna Mae Rogers, age 70, of Des Moines, Iowa and formerly of Aplington, was born April 2, 1934, the daughter of John H. and Johanna Meyer Sessler in her parent’s home north of Aplington, Iowa. She graduated from Aplington High School. Anna Mae was united in marriage with Merle Rogers. The couple first lived in Houston, Texas for a few years. They then moved to Waterloo and eventually made their home in Des Moines. Merle died in February, 1986. Ann was an Administrative Assistant with an insurance company in Hampton and later was employed with a Des Moines insurance company. Ann loved to spend time gardening and loved working with her flowers. She was fond of animals and liked to spend time writing in her journals and diaries. Ann liked to clean up cars and would go fishing with Merle. Most of all, she enjoyed the time she had with her nieces and nephews who thought of her as one of the kids. Ann died Sunday, June 27, 2004, at her home in Des Moines of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her husband, Merle; her parents, John and Johanna Sessler and two brothers, Richard in his youth and Andrew Sessler and one sister, Dorothy Seehusen. She is survived by one brother, Arthur (Lavola) Sessler, Parkersburg, Iowa; two sisters, Irene Walterman, Dike, Iowa and Ruth Sessler, Los Angeles, California; and several other nieces and nephews. Funeral Services were held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, July 2, 2004, at the Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, Iowa with Rev. Scott Summers officiating. Violinist Amy Schmeidel played “Amazing Grace” and “Fairest Lord Jesus.” Special Hymns were “In the Garden” and “What A Friend We Have In Jesus.” Casketbearers were Anna’s Nieces and Nephews. Interment was in the Bethel Reformed Cemetery, rural Aplington, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

07/17/04

Funeral services for Richard L. Rohwedder, 82, of 404 North First Street, Greene, will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 8, 2004, at St Peter Lutheran Church in Greene, with Pastor Mark Walker officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 7, 2004, at Reid’s Funeral Chapel in Greene, and will continue at the Church on Thursday one hour before services. Richard Leo Rohwedder was born March 5, 1922 in Greene, the son of Leo and Bessie (Johnston) Rohwedder, and died Sunday July 4, 2004, at his home in Greene. He received his education in the Greene Public Schools graduating in 1941. He was united in marriage to Carole M. Borchard, on December 23, 1942, at St. Peter Lutheran Parsonage in Greene. They made their home in the Greene and surrounding area their entire married life. Richard was a farmer, rural mail carrier, and school bus driver. Dick enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, as well as dancing, playing cards, gardening, and working in his wood shop. Since his retirement he enjoyed wintering in Texas with his wife. Richard was a confirmed member of St Peter Lutheran Church in Greene. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years: Carole of Greene, his son: Gordon (Cheryl) Rohwedder of Marble Rock, his daughter: Gloria (Roger) Stover of Dows, four grandchildren: Randy Rohwedder, Brad (Friend Laura) Rohwedder, Troy (Merry) Stover, and Wesley (Stacey) Stover; nine great grandchildren: Christopher, Scott, and Terry Stover, Brooke, Kelsey, and Kamron Rohwedder; Brady, Trinity, and Blake Stover. Richard was preceded in death by his parents. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Richard L. Rohwedder Memorial Fund, designated for Hospice, in care of the family.

07/17/04

Mae Luella Wallace, age 99, died Thursday, July 8, 2004 at the Ogden Manor in Ogden. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m. Monday, July 12, 2004 at Becker Funeral Home in Jewell, Iowa with Rev. Robert Williams officiating. Burial followed at Evergreen Cemetery in Jewell. Becker Funeral Home in Jewell was entrusted with arrangements. Mae Luella Wallace was born in Fulda, Minnesota on Sunday, June 18, 1905 to Martin and Estel (Keith) Folz. On November 22, 1926 Mae married Elmer M. Wallace in Webster City, Iowa. Elmer preceded Mae in death in 1976. Mae has lived in Boone and Ogden for the last eight years. Mae is survived by a son, Darold W. Wallace and Norma of Jesup; grandchildren, Darold R. Wallace, Cary Wallace, Bret Wallace, Patsy Svien and Jerry, and Kristy Mullin; and many great and great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sons, Donald R. Wallace and Claude A. Wallace; brothers Leonard Palmer, Glen Folz, and Ray Folz, sister Waive Folz Nelson; and grandson, Gary L. Mullin.

07/17/04

Ruth Margaret Weedman, age 85, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born the daughter of Ed and Olive (Detra) Cadam, on December 21, 1918, rural Butler County, Clarksville, Iowa. She received her education from a country school near her home and graduated from the Clarksville High School in 1936. She continued her education for two years at a Teacher’s College and in 1965 she renewed her Teacher’s Certificate at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Ruth began teaching in Woolstock, Iowa for two years before marriage. On June 2, 1940, Ruth Cadam was united in marriage with Maynard M. Weedman at the Unity Church. Following their marriage they lived various communities in Carroll, Woolstock, Duncombe, and Eagle Grove, Iowa where Maynard was employed or they farmed. They returned to rural Clarksville in 1960. Ruth taught one year in Waverly-Shell Rock Schools and she taught the second grade for 12 years at the Clarksville Community School. They retired to town in 1976. Maynard died in 1989 and Ruth moved to the Clarksville Retirement Village in 1995. Ruth was an active member of the Unity Presbyterian Church, rural Clarksville. She served as an Elder many times and was the Treasurer of Unity Presbyterian Women several years also. Ruth was a member of the Clarksville Rebekah Lodge #533, where she was a Past Noble Grand and a Secretary for many years and a member of the Good Will Club. She volunteered for many years for the Clarksville Community Fund and the Commodity Distribution. On July 9, 2004, Ruth died at the Waverly Heath Center in Waverly, Iowa of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her husband, Maynard and her parents. Ruth is survived by three sons, James “Jim” (Jan) Weedman of Boone, Iowa; Dale Weedman of New Hartford, Iowa; and Lynn Weedman of Glenville, Minnesota; six grandchildren; six great grandsons and three great granddaughters; one brother, James “Jim” (Katherine) Cadam of Parker, Arizona. Funeral Services were held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 13, 2004 at the Unity Presbyterian Church, rural, Clarksville, Iowa with Rev. Reuben Topp officiating. Organist Paula Miller accompanied Congregational Hymns “Precious Memories” and “My Faith Looks Up To Thee”. Honorary Casketbearers were the Ladies of the Rebekah Lodge. Casketbearers were Ruth’s Grandsons, Jeff Weedman, Brian Weedman, Adam Weedman, Dax Weedman, Titus Weedman and Quentin Weedman. Interment was in the Cass Township Cemetery, Webster City, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the MS Foundation.

               Posted on 07/18/2004 by Gene Manning

Howard Ellis Thoresen

Howard Ellis Thoresen, age 88, of Osage, died Saturday, July 17, 2004, at Osage Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Osage, Iowa. Howard was born March 23, 1916 at Kenyon, Minnesota, the son of Eli and Anna (Brown) Thoresen. He moved with his family to Orchard, Iowa, in 1924. Howard attended Orchard Elementary School, Osage High School, and graduated from Mankato State Business College in 1936. Howard moved to the family farm east of Osage in 1933, where he was involved in the farming operation until his death. He was united in marriage to Verna L. Puckett on June 2, 1946 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Mason City, Iowa. Howard was a member of the Mitchell County Farm Bureau, and was a past president of that organization. He was also a member of the Mitchell County and Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, and was a 4-H leader for many years. Howard was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Osage, where he was an usher for over 50 years, served as church treasurer, along with serving on other boards and committees. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 22 , 2004, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Osage with Rev. Dennis Hanson and Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Interment will be in the Osage Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, and one hour before services at the church on Thursday. Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home (641)732-3706. Survived by: His wife: Verna Thoresen of Osage, Iowa. Children: Ann McKinney and her husband Rodney of Dougherty, Iowa; Mary Cullen of Osage, Iowa; Luther Thoresen and his wife Paula of Ruthven, Iowa; David Thoresen and his wife Mary of Lake Wales, Florida; Ruth Ward and her husband Philip of Cedaredge, Colorado; Paul Thoresen and his wife Chris of St. Paul, Minnesota. Grandchildren: Rhonda McKinney, Carol Cullen, Joseph Cullen, Ben Thoresen, Jessica Thoresen, Alena Thoresen, Priya Thoresen, Shristi Thoresen, Jonathan Thoresen, Rachel McGruder. Great Grandchildren: Cheyenne Cullen and Cole Dent, 1 brother: Leonard Thoresen of Osage, Iowa, 1 half brother: William Thoresen of Colorado. Other family and friends Preceded by: His parents 1 brother: Oliver Thoresen 1 sister: Gladys Thoresen.

07/22/04

Irene C. Johnston, age 89, of Clarksville, died Tuesday, July 13, 2004, at the North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City of a heart attack. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 17, 2004 at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Clarksville with Pastors Bob Myren and Pastor Jessica Johnston officiating. Music for the service was provided by Harriet Forry as organist, playing “The Old Rugged Cross”, “In The Garden” and “How Great Thou Art.” There was a Rebekah Service at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home on Friday. Interment was in Horton Cemetery, rural Waverly with Mark Johnston, Dennis Johnston, JoDee Johnston, Diana Mehmen, Lori Kapping, Kim Klinkel and Kenneth Oberdiear as casketbearers. Irene Carmela Johnston was born September 17, 1914, in Lethbridge, Canada, the daughter of Michael and Emma (Weber) Diesburg. A year later the family moved to North Dakota where Irene attended school. They moved to Charles City in 1927 and Irene graduated from Immaculate Conception High School in 1932. She was united in marriage to Kenneth Wayne Johnston on October 1, 1935, at the parsonage of the Immanuel United Church of Christ in Clarksville. They farmed in the Horton area until moving to Denver in 1957. Irene and Kenneth built their new home in Clarksville in 1976. Irene worked as a waitress at the Waterloo Airport and at Oberheu’s Restaurant in Waverly for many years. She was a member of the Immanuel U.C.C. Rebekah’s and the Horton Cemetery Society. She enjoyed playing cards, especially 500 and Pinochle. Irene was an avid reader, reading as many as three books a week. Her real love was for her family and people. She never missed a birthday or anniversary greeting and was always there to visit those in need. Irene is survived by one son, Melvin (Jerri) Johnston of Nashua; one daughter, Janet Oberdiear of Clarksville; 7 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth on March 5, 1998; two sons, George Michael Johnston and an infant son; her parents; five brothers, Leo, Norbert J., Virgel, Norbert M. and Clement Diesburg; four sisters, Celestine Steiner, Katherine Karr, Lucille Koskie and Coletta Dickhausen; a son-in-law, Donald Oberdiear. Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua was in charge of arrangements.

07/22/04

Maxine Avis Hoodjer, age 85, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born May 27, 1919, the daughter of William and Clara Renning Allan in her parent’s home, rural Allison, Iowa. She graduated from Allison High School and attended Iowa Teachers College in Cedar Falls. Maxine was united in marriage with Chris Hoodjer on May 23, 1947, in the parsonage of St. John Lutheran Church, Clarksville, Iowa. The couple made their home in Clarksville. Maxine taught country schools in Butler County for many years and then she taught for six years in the Clarksville Community Schools. She continued to help Chris with Chris Hoodjer Construction through the years. Maxine was a member of St. John Lutheran Church where she sang in the choir and participated in many activities as long as she was able. She liked go fishing, garden, grow flowers and work with ceramics. A highlight for Maxine, while golfing, had been hitting a hole-in-one. She enjoyed traveling with Chris and their travel group, the Wally Byam Airstreams Caravan. Maxine died Monday, July 12, 2004 at Allen Memorial Hospital, Waterloo, Iowa, of stroke and heart attack. She was preceded in death by her parents and six brothers and three sisters. She is survived by her husband, Chris Hoodjer, Clarksville, Iowa; one sister, Ruth Hummel, Allison, Iowa and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services were held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, July 16 at St. John Lutheran Church with Pastor David Nelson officiating. Organist was Glenda Timmer. Congregational hymns were Congregational Hymns “Just As I Am,” “Borning Cry” and “Old Rugged Cross.” Casketbearers were Bill Hummel, Milt Hoodjer, Dave Hummel, Tim Hoodjer, Steve Allan and Galen Hoodjer. Flower Committee was Roxanne Hoodjer and Barb Hoodjer. with burial in Lynwood Cemetery, both in Clarksville, Iowa. Officiating Interment was in Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville, Iowa. Memorials may be made to Community Nursing Home, Clarksville. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements.

07/22/04

Gerald “Gerry” Dean Johnson was born February 18, 1949 at Waterloo, Iowa the son of Clarence G. and Matilda L. (Lauterbach) Johnson. He married Peggy Kay Hain on July 22, 1977 at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Gerry graduated from Allison High School in 1967 and the University of Northern Iowa in 1971. He was a comptroller for Martin Bros. Distributing in Cedar Falls for over 21 years and since 1977 was a C.P.A. working out of his home. Gerry also farmed for many years in Butler County, Iowa. He died Thursday, July 15, 2004, at Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo, at 55 years of age. Gerry is survived by his wife, Peggy, of Cedar Falls; his children, Krystle, Kourtney and Griffin Johnson, all of Cedar Falls; his mother, Matilda Johnson of Allison, Iowa; a brother, Randal (Marj) Johnson of Clarksville, Iowa; two sisters, Mavis (Steve) Wicks of Allison and Carol (Dennis) Wilcox of Madrid, Iowa; his uncles and aunts, seven nephews & nieces, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence G. Johnson, and a brother, Ronald Johnson. Services were Monday July 19, 2004 at Nazareth Lutheran Church, Cedar Falls, Iowa. Burial was held at Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg, Iowa. Memorials to the church or the American Cancer Society.

07/22/04

Carol Janssen, age 42, of Allison, Iowa, was born January 11, 1962, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Harold and Irene Sossaman Blum. She graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1980. Carol continued her education at Ellsworth College in Iowa Falls earning an associate degree. Carol was united in marriage with Brent Janssen on April 17, 1982, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Clarksville, Iowa. After marriage they made their home on their farms near Allison where they live today. Carol’s first occupation was taking care of her family and home. In 1997 she worked for MidCom in Waverly, until it closed. Carol returned to college at Hamilton Business College in Cedar Falls, and earned an associate degree in Business Computers. She was employed at B2B Exchange in Cedar Falls. Carol currently worked at NIACC in Mason City as a Help Desk Media Technician, until her illness forced her to stop working. Carol was a very active member of St. John Lutheran Church. She was a Sunday school Teacher for many years, served on the Parish Education Committee, Co-Chaired the annual Church Bar-B-Q, and helped with the children’s Christmas program. Carol was a member of the Shell Rock Karate Club. She enjoyed computers and the Internet. She had her own web site www.inthemiddleofacornfield.com. Carol liked collecting Longaberger Baskets and Precious Moments figurines. She also enjoyed creating scrapbooks. Carol loved her pets. She cherished her family and loved her husband and children with all her heart. Carol died July 15, 2004, at the Waverly Health Center in Waverly, from complication of a Glioblastoma multiforme brain tumor. She was preceded in death by her father Harold Blum. Carol is survived by her husband and three children, Brent, Samantha, Robert and Christopher Janssen, all of Allison, Iowa, her mother, Irene Blum, Cedar Falls, Iowa; two brothers, John Blum, Iowa, and Bill Blum, The Colony, Texas; one sister, Grace (Brad) Robinson Lincoln, Nebraska; grandmother, Ethel McCombs, Cedar Falls, Iowa. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 17, 2004 at St. John Lutheran Church, Clarksville, Iowa with Pastor David Nelson officiating. Organist was Deb Knudson. A duet of Rick and Kelly Wangness sang “One More Day.” Accompanist was Robin Morton. Congregational Hymns were “Borning Cry” and “Our God is an Awesome God.” Casketbearers were Dale Janssen, Dan Dennis, Bob Mundell, Jim Johnson, Brad Robinson and Don Henrichs. Honorary Casketbearers were Randal Johnson, Loreli Dilly and Vickie Green. Flower Committee was Georgene Johnson, Vicki Miller, Barb Meyer and Cheryl Waskow. Interment was in Butler Center Cemetery, rural Allison, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the family. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements.

07/22/04

Anthony Duane Herron, died at home Tuesday, July 6, 2004, from complications of premature birth. Baby Anthony is survived by his: parents, Deborah Kerr and Brandon Herron, of Dumont, Iowa; a brother and two sisters, Austin, Cameo and Ciara Kerr; maternal grandparents, Dean and Cindy Wefel, Clarksville, Iowa; paternal grandmother, Terri (Duane) Coil, Delphos, Ohio; paternal grandfather, Ernest Herron, Spencerville, Ohio; maternal great grandmother, Jo Ellefson, of Clear Lake, Iowa; paternal great grandparents, Menard and Carol Shobe, Delphos, Ohio; and a paternal great grandmother, Arlis Herron, Spencerville, Ohio. He was preceded in death by; one brother, Monty Uthe, April 7, 1993, maternal great grandfather, Vernon Ellefson; maternal great grandparents, Lawrence and Elnora Wefel; and one paternal great grandfather Jack Herron. Funeral Services for baby Anthony Herron were held 10:30 a.m., Monday, July 12, 2004, at the Pleasant Valley United Church of Christ with Rev. Anne Sunday officiating. Organist was Roberta Nieman. Zach and Mariah Wefel sang “The Lord’s Prayer.” Congregational Hymns were “Jesus Loves Me” and “Children of the Heavenly Father.” Casketbearers were Dean Wefel and Duane Coil. Burial was in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery, rural Clarksville. Memorials maybe directed to the family. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

              Posted on 7/24/2004 by Gene Manning

07/30/04

Ruth Ann (Dohrmann) (Schulz) (Gutz) Hadwiger was born December 27, 1921 to Arnold C. & Nora A. Dohrmann at West Concord, Minnesota. In 1928 the family moved to a farm west of Hampton. Ruth married M. Dean Schulz on February 20, 1944. They made their home near Hampton working for various farmers. In 1949 they moved to a farm near Dumont. In 1970 she married Eppler Paul Gutz. They made their home in Hampton and operated a stock brokerage business. In 1991 she married Everett Hadwiger of Iowa Falls. They made their home in Iowa Falls. She enjoyed gardening, doing embroidery, crocheting and other fancy work and spending time with her family. Ruth is survived by her husband Everett Hadwiger, daughter Alice (Alfred) Beitelmann, granddaughter Angela Beitelmann, grandson Adam Beitelmann; son Roger (Elizabeth) Schulz of Poulsbo, Washington, granddaughter Laura (Erik Jensen) Schulz, brother Floyd (Faye) Dohrmann, nieces Connie (Steven) Jensen and Carol (Dennis) Nauman. Ruth was preceded in death

by her parents, husband Dean Schulz in 1958, husband E.P. Gutz in 1973 and brother Lawrence in 1929. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, July 24, 2004 at the New Hope United Methodist Church in Dumont with Rev. Terra Amundson officiating. Special music was provided by organist Mrs. Beryl Reed accompanying soloist Mrs. Norman Brown. The usher was Harold Reents. Pallbearers were Steven Jensen, Brad Jensen, Scott Nauman, Brett Nauman, Stacy Jensen and Dennis Nauman. Final resting place was in the Dumont Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

07/30/04

Funeral services for Luella E. Voigts, 95, of Clarksville formerly of Greene, were held Friday, July 23, 2004, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, in Clarksville, with Pastor David Nelson officiating. Burial was in the Vilmar Cemetery, in Vilmar/Rural Greene. Luella F. Voigts was born February 6,1909, on a farm in rural Tipton, a daughter of Henry & Louise (Ebert) Conrad, and died Tuesday, July 20, 2004 at the Clarksville Nursing Home, in Clarksville. She attended country school and transferred into Tipton Schools, graduating in 1927. Luella had many fond memories of teaching at Harmony Point Country School in Cedar County. On May 11, 1932 Luella was united in marriage with Fred H. Voigts at her parent’s home in Clarence. They made their home in the Vilmar area where they farmed until they retired and moved into Greene in 1965. In 1994 Luella moved into an apartment in Clarksville and for the last 1 ½ year she has lived in the Clarksville Community Nursing Home. Luella was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Clarksville and had been active in the Dorcas Circle. She taught Sunday School at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Vilmar for 25 years. She had been very active in the Chat-A-While club in Greene and loved to play pinochle and 500. Luella loved to bake and she delivered fresh baked food to shut-ins, she was always known to have a coffee cake ready whenever company came. She was a people person and loved to spend time with friends, no one was ever a stranger to Luella. She kept busy with her tatting and made many rugs and snowmen and other projects. She always had a huge garden with flowers and vegetables. Luella is survived by 1 son: Larry (Pam) Voigts, Clarksville; 2 grandchildren: Shawn (Jennifer) Voigts, Davenport, Iowa; Kristin (Scot) Clay, Evansdale, Iowa; 2 great grandchildren: Kaitlin & Brianna Voigts of Davenport; sister: Esther Moir, Mechanicsville, IA and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Luella is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Fred in 1979; 2 brothers: Wilbur and Arnold Conrad both of Tipton.

07/30/04

Leonard Dale Swick, age 77, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born April 18, 1927, the son of Leslie and Matilda Wefel Swick on his parent’s farm in rural Butler County, near Clarksville, Iowa. He received his education at the Clarksville Schools. Leonard was drafted into the United States Army in 1945, at the end of World War II and was sent to Japan. He was honorably discharged February 20, 1947. He was a member of Clarksville AMVETS Post #30 Leonard was united in marriage with Lucille Meyer on June 24, 1951 at St. John Lutheran Church, Clarksville, Iowa. The couple made their home in Clarksville and lived there all their life. Leonard was employed by Schield Bantam Company (now Terex) in Waverly, Iowa and retired after 36 years. Leonard worked at the Clarksville Area Recreational Development, CARD, after his retirement. He also did electrical work, landscaping, sodding and had farmed some with his father. Leonard died Wednesday, July 21, 2004, at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Evelyn Acton and one great niece, Nicole Kielhorn. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Lucille Swick, Clarksville, Iowa; two sons, Mike (Cindy) Swick, Clarksville, Iowa and Scott Swick, Clarksville, Iowa; one daughter, Patti (Jim) Holubar, Midlothian, Virginia; eight grandchildren; two sisters, Lavola (Wayne) Rohlwing, Clarksville, Iowa and Jeanette (Lloyd) Leyen, Clarksville, Iowa. Funeral Services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 24, 2004, at St. John Lutheran Church, Clarksville, Iowa with Pastor David Nelson officiating. Organist was Deb Knudson. Vocalist Gary Parsons sang “In This Very Room.” Congregational Hymns were “Children of The Heavenly Father,” “What A Friend We Have In Jesus” and “Amazing Grace.” Casketbearers were Leonard’s grandchildren, Clint Swick, Kent Holubar, Philip Holubar, Alexis Swick, Lyndsie Swick and Phil Pitzenberger. Honorary Casketbearers were Haleigh Swick, Mitchell Holubar and Jade Anderson. Military Rites were conducted by Clarksville AMVETs Post #30. Bugler was Dean Schilling. Internment was in Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the family. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements.

07/30/04

Tommy J. Slocum, 61, of Marshalltown, IA died Thursday, July 22, 2004 at Mary Greely Medical Center in Ames. He was born on April 29, 1943, in Plymouth, IA, the son of Charles and Marzena (Kuhns) Slocum. He is survived by his wife Beverly (Whitmore), 7 children, 28 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, 1 sister Charlene (Ron) Barth and 3 brothers, Gary (Kathy) Slocum, Larry (Darlene) Slocum and Dan (Nancy) Slocum. Preceding him in death were his parents and 2 brothers, Ronald and Richard.

07/30/04

Helen Hazel Gisler, age 90, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born August 13, 1913, the daughter of Fred and Zella Wilson Hartwig near Clarksville in Dayton Township, Butler County, Iowa. Helen was baptized and confirmed in the Presbyterian Church. She attended country school near her home and graduated from Clarksville High School in 1933. She and her brother helped with the farm work while their dad did carpenter work with Bill Stoxen. Helen did housework for various families and worked in the Clarksville Corn Canning Factory. Helen was united in marriage with Clarence Gisler August, 1940. The couple lived in Clarksville all their married life. Helen was a member of the Clarksville Rebekah Lodge and the Past Noble Grand. She was also a member of the Live and Learn Club and the Good Will Club. She had served as a Girl Scout Leader for several years. Helen was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Clarksville where she was part of the Ladies Circle. She enjoyed spending time working crossword puzzles. She enjoyed baseball, especially the Chicago Cubs and the Atlanta Braves, and attended several major league games. She and Clarence used to play cards and go hunting and fishing. Helen loved to read and was always getting books from the library. Helen died Tuesday, July 20, 2004, at Community Nursing Home in Clarksville, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence, January 11, 1990; her parents; a brother, Lyle Hartwig; a sister, Lavon Schryver; and one granddaughter, Lisa Gisler. Helen is survived by one daughter, Carolyn Fenneman and her fiancé, Gary Huisman, Clarksville, Iowa; one step-son, Charles (Phyllis) Gisler, Palisade, Colorado; three grandchildren, Lori Gisler, Arvada, Colorado; Chris (Kris) Fenneman, Clarksville, Iowa and Kristi (Joe) Anhalt, Cedar Falls, Iowa; five great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter. Funeral services were held Friday, 1:30 p.m. at Immanuel United Church of Christ with Pastor David Walters officiating. Organist Sharon Leerhoff accompanied Congregational Hymns “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” and “Have Thine Own Way, Lord.” Casketbearers were Tyler Fenneman, Tanner Fenneman, Chris Fenneman, Red Metz, Vic Busse and Darrell Aissen. Honorary Casketbearers were Trevor Fenneman, Joe Anhalt, Luke Anhalt, Milo Hartwig, Darin Aissen, Patricia Chambers, Bill Heine and Danielle Niedert. Flower Committee was Sherry Litterer and Barb Wygle. Internment was in Lynwood Cemetery, Clarksville, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the family. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Clarksville, was in charge of arrangements.

                 Posted on 07/30/2004 by Gene Manning