05/03/04

Trayton Kurtis Meyer was stillborn on Thursday, April 22, 2004 at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo. He was the son of Jaci Buseman and Kurt Meyer, both of Ackley, Iowa. Surviving are mother Jaci Buseman and father Kurt Meyer of Ackley, and grandparents Alvin and Fern Meyer of Ackley and Lee and Darlene Buseman of Aplington, Iowa. Maternal grandmother Jeri Buse-man preceded him in death. Private family service was held Saturday, April 24, 2004 at the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley with Pastor Mary Stonebraker officiating. Burial was in the Dumont Cemetery.

05/03/04

Ralph R. McCready, age 81, of Longville, MN died Friday, April 23, 2004 at his home. Ralph was born December 23, 1922 in Westview, PA, the son of Harry and Bessie (McGrew) McCready. He grew up and attended school in Pennsylvania. Following graduation from high school he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. Ralph served with the Eighth Air Force in England during World War II. During this time of his life he met Leona Harms and on February 2, 1943 Ralph and Leona were married in Ala Magordo, New Mexico. After his military service Ralph and Leona made their home in Allison, Iowa where Ralph worked at the Allison Hardware Store for several years. During this time Ralph did woodworking for many of the area residents. In 1968 they moved to Waterloo, IA where he was Superintendent of Building and Grounds at Hawkeye Institute of Technology. After almost 20 years of service he retired and they moved to the lake near Longville, MN where they have lived for eighteen years. Ralph was first and foremost a family man. He greatly enjoyed living on the lake and experiencing nature. He was know for this camera work, and became proficient on the computer. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting and fishing. Ralph was also an avid reader keeping up with current events and history. This allowed Ralph to be well informed in his later years. Ralph was a member of Salem Lutheran Church in Longville. He kept the weather statistics which he reported to the paper for many years. Ralph was very active with the Long Lake Association where he received DNR Awards for his dedicated service. He was also a member of the VFW and the YAH Club. He is survived by his wife Leona (Harms) McCready of Longville, MN, one son Ralph Richard McCready ,Jr. (Jennifer) of Allison, Iowa, two daughters; Linda Tyler (Terry) of Drayton, ND, Susan Plagge of Waterloo, IA, grandchildren; Jim McCready (Deb) of Ackley, IA, Tina Miller (Ted), Greg McCready and Tim McCready all of Allison, Iowa, Jake Tyler (Lora) of Drayton, North Dakota, 5 great grandchildren; Alex and Clair McCready, Taylor, Maggie, and Abbi Miller, one brother Harry McCready (Betty) and one sister Janette Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Benjamin, three sisters, Helen, Dorothy, and Ethel, and an infant grandson Benjamin. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 2:00 P.M. at Salem Lutheran Church in Longville, MN with Rev. John Monson officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Allison Community Cemetery, Allison, Iowa on Friday, April 30 at 1:00 P.M. Thomas-Dennis funeral Home of Longville, MN is handling funeral arrangements. 218-547-1112.

                   Posted on 05/04/2004 by Gene Manning

05/09/04

]Funeral services for Minor M. Dix, 87, of Greene, were held Monday, May 3, 2004, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greene, with Pastor Paul Uzel officiating. Burial was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Minor Malcolm Dix was born January 20, 1917, in rural Butte, Boyd County, Nebraska, a son of Edward S. and Iska L. (Wiard) Dix, and died Thursday, April 29, 2004, at his home in Greene. In 1922 the Dix family moved to Butler County, settling near Bristow. Minor attended rural schools nearby, and attended the Greene High School. Following his father’s death in 1930 he left school to work and support his mother and family. Since 1936 Minor has been engaged in farming in Butler County. In 1942 he purchased his first farm. On August 24, 1947 he was united in marriage to Audrey Jean Packard, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. To this union was born five children. In 1959 they moved to their present farm in Packard. Minor had a great love for horses. He first started farming with horses and in later years he raised Quarter Horses, sometimes up to eighteen horses at a time. He also enjoyed gardening. Many will remember the strawberries he grew and sold in town. He was a 4-H leader and a member of the Farm Bureau. He enjoyed spending his time at home with his family. When family and friends would come to visit, it would give him great pleasure. In 1996 Minor and Audrey retired and moved into their home in Greene. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 56 years Audrey of Greene; his children: Minor (Kathy) Dix and their children: Alison, Justin (Cara) Dix., Kasey, and Lucas Dix all of Mount Vernon; Tom (Belinda) Dix and their children: Shane and Chad Vineyard, and Nickie Dix all of Waverly; Lucinda (Dennis) Echelberger and their children: Andrea and Michaela Echelberger all of Fergus Falls, MN; Mark (Ellyn) Dix and their Daughter: Carley Dix; all of Charles City; Susan (Steve) Clausen and their children: Christopher and McKenzi of Chatham, IL; two sisters: Dawn Cheney and Twila (Duane) Smith both of Greene; and a brother-in-law: Charles (Marilyn) Ray of Cohasset, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother: Kermit Dix; one sister Darlene Ray; and a brother-in-law: Paul Cheney. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Minor M. Dix Memorial Fund, to be designated for the First Presbyterian Church, in care of the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral Chapel.

05/09/04

Funeral services for Maurice L. Lines, 73, of Marble Rock, were held Thursday, April 29, 2004, at the Marble Rock Community Center with Pastor Patricia Shaw of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church officiating. Burial was in the Westside Cemetery, Marble Rock, with military honors conducted by Stroud Gates Post 387, American Legion of Marble Rock. Maurice Lee Lines was born September 18, 1930, in rural Ulster Township, Floyd County, a son of Henry Charles and Clara Anna (Schafer) Lines, and died Monday, April 26, 2004, at his home in rural Marble Rock. He received his education at the Marble Rock Public School, graduating in 1948. While in high school and following graduation he was a baseball catcher for both the Marble Rock and Rockford town teams. He even tried out for the minor leagues with the Chicago White Sox. On January 5, 1951, he entered the United States Navy, serving during the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge on August 12, 1954, he returned home to Marble Rock, where he farmed with his father and brother before starting out on his own.

05/09/04

John Marks Jr., age 88, of Allison, Iowa, was born the son of John and Bena (Tjebkes) Marks on January 6, 1916, in Grundy County, rural New Hartford, Iowa. He received his education in rural country school, near his home. On December 28, 1938, John Marks, Jr. was united in marriage with Anna Schipper in her parent’s home on a farm near Kesley, Iowa. They made their home on a farm near New Hartford and in 1946 they moved to their family farm near Allison. John was an active member of the Trinity Reformed Church in Allison, where he served as a deacon, an elder, he taught Sunday School for many years and was a member of the Gideons. John loved the Lord and became a witness to anyone at every opportunity. He especially loved spending time with his family. John also enjoyed farming and custom farming. He enjoyed communicating and dealing with people which led to his love of selling, beginning in his youthful years with many different items including Archer Oil, Clay Equipment, Van Dale Equipment, H&S Sowjoy Hog Equipment and several other lines of agricultural equipment. And last but not least, was his enjoyment he had working with his 2030 John Deere loader tractor. At 8:25 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2004, John died at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa of natural causes. He reached the age of 88 years, 3 months and 22 days. John is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Anna on December 20, 1999; three brothers, Henry Marks and his wife, Phoebe, Albert Marks, and Fred Marks; two sisters, Jessie and her husband, Richard Schipper and Reka and her husband, Conrad Schipper. John is survived by five sons, John B. Marks and his wife Elisabeth of Allison, Roger D. Marks and his wife, Joyce of Allison, Gary J. Marks and his wife, Shirley of Hampton, Orlyn L. Marks and his wife, Wendy of Parkersburg and Randy J. Marks of Waterloo; two daughters, Ardella L. Hansen and her husband, Bill of Aplington, and Dorthy A. Mehmen and her husband, Kenny of Baxter, Iowa; 21 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; one sister, Bena Knock of Cedar Falls; one sister-in-law, Elma Marks of Roscoe, Illinois; many nieces and nephews; and a special family friend, Betty Tueting. Funeral Services were held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, May 1, 2004, at the Trinity Reformed Church, Allison, Iowa with Rev. Steve Petroelje, Rev. Donald Patet and Rev. Norman Menning officiating. Keyboardist was Delores Hoodjer. Vocalist Scott Marks sang “The Anchor Holds” and Randy Aaldreks sang “O What a Savior.” Congregational Hymns were “How Great Thou Art” and “Victory in Jesus”. Casketbearers were Kevin Marks, Danny Hansen, Brandon Marks, Bryon Marks, Jason Marks, Jeffrey Marks, Joel Marks, Kurtis Marks, Scott Marks and David Mehmen. Interment was in the Allison Cemetery, Allison, Iowa. The Flower Committee was Marlys Clarke and Liz Deuell. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

05/09/04

Etta Clara Fink, age 84, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born March 11, 1920, in Grundy County near Dike, Iowa, the daughter of Sam and Effie Reiter Hayes. She graduated from Grundy Center High School and attended college at Iowa State Teachers College. Etta was united in marriage with Vernett Fink on February 23, 1945, in the Calvary Baptist Church Parsonage in Parkersburg, Iowa. The couple lived in their honeymoon flat for one year, then made their home on a farm near Parkersburg where they lived the rest of their lives. Etta taught school in Grundy County for eight years and gave piano and accordion lessons. She enjoyed working together with her husband on the farm and loved it when they were busy. Etta expressed that she always felt that they were very blessed and the Lord had been very good to them. Etta was a lifetime member of Calvary Baptist Church in Parkersburg. She had been a 4-H Volunteer and helped with the Cancer and Heart Fundraisers. She liked to spend time quilting, sewing, crocheting, doing jigsaw puzzles and reading. She taught her granddaughters needlework, passing on the art to the next generation. Etta was interested in history, especially family genealogy and had compiled a book of her family tree. Etta died Tuesday, April 27, 2004, at Sartori Memorial Hospital, Cedar Falls, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Edward and Earl Hayes. She is survived by her husband, Vernett Fink, Parkersburg, Iowa; one son, Verlyn (Betty) Fink, Parkersburg; three grandchildren, Tricia (Jason) Davis, Maple Grove, Minnesota; Heather Fink, Bozeman, Montana and Andrea Fink, Frankfort, Indiana; one sister-in-law, Mildred Hayes, Dike, Iowa and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services were held Saturday, May 1, 2004 at Calvary Baptist, Church, Parkersburg, Iowa with Rev. Anthony Bradseth officiating. Organist was Renise Aswegan. Vocalist Gloria Willms sang “Room At The Cross.” Congregational Hymns were “Old Rugged Cross” and “My God and I.” Casketbearers were Bruce Hayes, Scott Hayes, Sid Hayes, Clayton Fink, Robert Buck and George Walvate. 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 on 04/10/2004 by Gene Manning

05/16/04

Dolores L. Hartson, 79, of Clarksville, Iowa, died on Thursday evening, May 6, 2004, at the Waverly Health Center, Waverly, Iowa. Dolores was born on March 10, 1925, in Charles City, Iowa, the daughter of Phillip E. and Eva L. (Miller) Wagner. On August 3, 1946, Dolores was united in marriage to Robert W. (Bob) Hartson in Oakland, California. Dolores and Bob owned and operated a number of businesses in Butler County, including Wagner Variety Store in Shell Rock, Bob’s Wife’s Lunch Wagons, Bob’s Drive Inn in Clarksville and Bob’s Wife’s Restaurant in Allison. Dolores enjoyed her work with Bob, spending time with her family and friends and loved to garden. Dolores is survived by two daughters & their husbands, Tande & Dan Brush of Palm Springs, California, Holly and Habbo Fokkena of Clarksville, Iowa, one son and his wife, Starr & Dianne Hartson of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin; 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband Robert. In respect for Dolores’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services. Her body was donated to the University of Missouri in Columbia. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society. Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly was in charge of donation. 319-352-1187.

05/16/04

Marla J. Senne, 63, died Friday, May 7, 2004 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City. A funeral service was held Monday, May 10, 2004 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 670 12th Street NE, Mason City with Rev. James Grabitski officiating. Burial was in Elmwood St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City. Marla Jean, the daughter of Conrad and Dora (Kleinschmidt) Senne, was born March 7, 1941 in rural Allison, Iowa. She received her education from Allison High School, graduating in 1959. She worked for Mercy Medical Center of North Iowa in various departments, most recently as a mail messenger. She retired after twenty-seven years of service. Marla was a devoted mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending as much time with her grandchildren as she was able to. She was member of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church of Mason City. Marla is survived by her daughter and son in law Marcia and Steve Barnish of Mason City, two granddaughters Jessica and Katie Barnish, also of Mason City, one brother Floyd Senne of Allison, Iowa, two sisters Dorothy Senne and Viola Luchtenburg, both of Allison, Iowa, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Roy, and an infant brother, Irvin Dean, a special aunt Minnie Kleinschmidt, and one nephew Greg Senne.

05/16/04

Beth Ritter, 94, of Aredale, Iowa passed away May 9, 2004 at the Allison Care Center in Allison, Iowa. Beth was born on April 6, 1910 in Butler County, Iowa to William Henry and Claira (Menzies) Knoll. She graduated from Dumont High School. Beth was married on June 27, 1936 in Hubbard, Iowa to Ronald P. Ritter. Beth worked for the United States Postal Service as a Clerk. She also sold Avon for more than twenty years and she was a homemaker. She was a member of the Aredale United Methodist Church in Aredale, Iowa. Beth was involved in the United Methodist Women’s Group and she was a member of the Aredale American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed making handmade pieced quilts and she made the best angel food cake and doughnuts around. Beth is survived by her daughters: Suzanne and husband Ray Cubic of Vestal, New York, daughter Peggy and husband Al Buseman of Dumont; sister Joyce Westendorf of Waverly; four grandchildren: Scott Cubic of Binghamton, New York, Christine and husband Gregg of Vestal, New York, Nathan Buseman of Storm Lake, Chad and wife Jen of Britt; and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband in 1970, three sisters, Vera Stewart, Lou Wintz and Minetta Knoll and one brother Clyde Knoll. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 13, 2004 at the Aredale United Methodist Church in Aredale with Rev. Terra Amundson officiating. Special music was provided by organist Belva Sheriff accom-panying soloist Kara Groen. The usher was Wayne Zimmerman. Pallbearers were Mike Collins, Preston White, Gordon Brocka, Jim Wubbena, Jack Richard and Ron Zimmerman. Final resting place was in the Dumont Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. _______

05/16/04

Helena Emma DeBower, 97, of Allison, Iowa passed away May 5, 2004 at the Allison Care Center in Allison, Iowa. Helena was born on October 19, 1906 in Greene, Iowa to Albert and Sophia (Prange) Constien. She attended country school in Coldwater Township. Helena was baptized November 4, 1906 at St. John��s Lutheran Church in Vilmar. She was confirmed on April 11, 1920 at Vilmar. On February 26, 1928 she married Floyd DeBower in her parents home in rural Greene by Rev. Conrad Weltner. They farmed east of Allison for 37 years and moved to Allison in February of 1965. She was a member of the St. James Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday School for many years. She was active in the Women’s Circle with sewing, quilting, and church suppers. She loved to cook and garden. Helena entered the Allison Care Center on September 25, 1996 after she suffered a fractured hip. She is survived by her son Lyle and wife Margie DeBower of Decorah, two daughters: Audrey and husband Hank Freesemann of Allison and Valda and husband Mel Bohlen of Allison; a sister Alma Jacobs of Allison; ten grandchildren: Keith and wife Sue Freesemann of Yorba Linda, California, Lois and husband Rod Silver of Dumont, Craig and wife Deb Freesemann of Waverly, Bruce Freesemann and friend Lisa Bokhoven of Altoona, Larry and wife Lisa Freesemann of Olatha, Kansas, Karla and husband Larry Schmidt of Allison, Danny and Lori Bohlen of Allison, Trisha and husband Dean Bahe of Waverly, Glenn and wife Karen Grimstad of Waukon, Melanie and husband Dale Kleiner of Decorah; thirty-one great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Floyd in 1972, a sister Dora Lubben and a grandson Kenneth Grimstad. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 8, 2004 at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison with Rev. Jerry Laehn officiating. Special music was provided by organist Mrs. Cecil Radcliffe accompanying the congregational singing. Pallbearers were Glenn Grimstad, Danny Bohlen, Keith Freesemann, Craig Freesemann, Bruce Freesemann and Larry Freesemann. Final resting place was in the Allison Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

05/16/04

Alice Siems, 94, of Dumont, Iowa, passed away May 1, 2004, at the Dumont Care Center in Dumont, Iowa. Alice was born on July 18, 1909 in Hardin County, Iowa, to Wubbo and Hilda (Bakker) Viet. She attended country schools. She was married on December 22, 1930, in Dumont to Dick Siems. Alice was a homemaker. She was a member of the Dumont Reformed Church in Dumont, Iowa. Alice enjoyed tea time and having cookies, cake or pie in the afternoon. She liked to embroider, make quilts and garden. Alice loved to bake, collect bird figurines and she always took in stray cats (which were always named “Cookie”). She is survived by her son Verlon and wife Shirley Siems of Hampton; daughter-in-law Janet Siems of Hampton; three sisters: Grace DeVries of Dumont, Jen Gronewold of Dumont and Tillie Hicken of Dumont; six grandchildren: Connie, David, Mike, Terri, Dianne, and Brenda; thirteen great-grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son Dareld, four brothers, and one sister. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 5, 2004 at the Dumont Reformed Church in Dumont with Rev. Bob Scholten officiating. Special music was provided by organist, Jim Siebrands accom-panying soloist, Mark Gerdes. Pallbearers were Merlin Viet, Ronald Viet, Robert Hicken, Mike Collins, Kenneth Armstrong and Kenneth DeVries. Honorary pallbearers were Gerald Viet, Galen Viet, John Gronewold and Wilbur Gronewold. Final resting place was in the Dumont Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. _______

05/16/04

Diana Maye Collins, 61, of North Platte, Nebraska, formerly of Dumont, died Wednesday, April 28, 2004, peacefully at her home after a long and hard fought battle with cancer. She died as she had lived...with strength and dignity. She was born December 2, 1942, to Duane and Flavia Stock Jamison, in Dumont, Iowa. She grew up there, met and married her childhood sweetheart, Jerry William Collins. They spent most of their years in Oelwein, Iowa, raising their four children. Survivors include her husband Jerry William Collins of North Platte, Nebraska; her mother Flavia Wessels and stepfather Jakie Wessels of Dumont; one son Kevin (Kim) Collins of Hubert, North Carolina; three daughters: Kimber Jean (Jesse) Gadison of Blaine, Minnesota, Kathy Jo (Richard) Blayer of Latimer, and Kristi Jane (Mark) Reeder of North Platte, Nebraska; two sisters: Bonnie (Gene) Underwood of Jesup and Karla and husband Al Metz of Tama; and eight grandchildren: Patrick, JD, Shawn, Dakotah, Austin, Tony, Audrey and Tyler. Preceeding her in death was her father, and her grandparents, Wilma and Agusta Stock and Ramidina and Willard Van Riper. She leaves behind many wonderful friends and family members too numerous to mention. She was loved by all and will truly be missed. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 4, 2004 at the New Hope United Methodist Church in Dumont with Rev. Terra Amundson officiating. Special music was provided by soloist Terri Wunder and the songs were “The Dance”, “Old Rugged Cross” and “I Cross My Heart.” The usher was Harold Reents and pallbearers were Kevin Collins, Gary Wunder, Bryan Wunder, Patrick O’Brien, Gene Underwood and J.R. Underwood. Honorary pallbearers were Jim Collins, Richard Collins, Richard Blayer and Mark Reeder. Final resting place was in the Dumont Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. _______

05/09/04

Funeral services for Minor M. Dix, 87, of Greene, were held Monday, May 3, 2004, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greene, with Pastor Paul Uzel officiating. Burial was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Minor Malcolm Dix was born January 20, 1917, in rural Butte, Boyd County, Nebraska, a son of Edward S. and Iska L. (Wiard) Dix, and died Thursday, April 29, 2004, at his home in Greene. In 1922 the Dix family moved to Butler County, settling near Bristow. Minor attended rural schools nearby, and attended the Greene High School. Following his father’s death in 1930 he left school to work and support his mother and family. Since 1936 Minor has been engaged in farming in Butler County. In 1942 he purchased his first farm. On August 24, 1947 he was united in marriage to Audrey Jean Packard, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. To this union was born five children. In 1959 they moved to their present farm in Packard. Minor had a great love for horses. He first started farming with horses and in later years he raised Quarter Horses, sometimes up to eighteen horses at a time. He also enjoyed gardening. Many will remember the strawberries he grew and sold in town. He was a 4-H leader and a member of the Farm Bureau. He enjoyed spending his time at home with his family. When family and friends would come to visit, it would give him great pleasure. In 1996 Minor and Audrey retired and moved into their home in Greene. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 56 years Audrey of Greene; his children: Minor (Kathy) Dix and their children: Alison, Justin (Cara) Dix., Kasey, and Lucas Dix all of Mount Vernon; Tom (Belinda) Dix and their children: Shane and Chad Vineyard, and Nickie Dix all of Waverly; Lucinda (Dennis) Echelberger and their children: Andrea and Michaela Echelberger all of Fergus Falls, MN; Mark (Ellyn) Dix and their Daughter: Carley Dix; all of Charles City; Susan (Steve) Clausen and their children: Christopher and McKenzi of Chatham, IL; two sisters: Dawn Cheney and Twila (Duane) Smith both of Greene; and a brother-in-law: Charles (Marilyn) Ray of Cohasset, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother: Kermit Dix; one sister Darlene Ray; and a brother-in-law: Paul Cheney. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Minor M. Dix Memorial Fund, to be designated for the First Presbyterian Church, in care of the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral Chapel.

05/09/04

Funeral services for Maurice L. Lines, 73, of Marble Rock, were held Thursday, April 29, 2004, at the Marble Rock Community Center with Pastor Patricia Shaw of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church officiating. Burial was in the Westside Cemetery, Marble Rock, with military honors conducted by Stroud Gates Post 387, American Legion of Marble Rock. Maurice Lee Lines was born September 18, 1930, in rural Ulster Township, Floyd County, a son of Henry Charles and Clara Anna (Schafer) Lines, and died Monday, April 26, 2004, at his home in rural Marble Rock. He received his education at the Marble Rock Public School, graduating in 1948. While in high school and following graduation he was a baseball catcher for both the Marble Rock and Rockford town teams. He even tried out for the minor leagues with the Chicago White Sox. On January 5, 1951, he entered the United States Navy, serving during the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge on August 12, 1954, he returned home to Marble Rock, where he farmed with his father and brother before starting out on his own.

05/09/04

John Marks Jr., age 88, of Allison, Iowa, was born the son of John and Bena (Tjebkes) Marks on January 6, 1916, in Grundy County, rural New Hartford, Iowa. He received his education in rural country school, near his home. On December 28, 1938, John Marks, Jr. was united in marriage with Anna Schipper in her parent’s home on a farm near Kesley, Iowa. They made their home on a farm near New Hartford and in 1946 they moved to their family farm near Allison. John was an active member of the Trinity Reformed Church in Allison, where he served as a deacon, an elder, he taught Sunday School for many years and was a member of the Gideons. John loved the Lord and became a witness to anyone at every opportunity. He especially loved spending time with his family. John also enjoyed farming and custom farming. He enjoyed communicating and dealing with people which led to his love of selling, beginning in his youthful years with many different items including Archer Oil, Clay Equipment, Van Dale Equipment, H&S Sowjoy Hog Equipment and several other lines of agricultural equipment. And last but not least, was his enjoyment he had working with his 2030 John Deere loader tractor. At 8:25 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2004, John died at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa of natural causes. He reached the age of 88 years, 3 months and 22 days. John is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Anna on December 20, 1999; three brothers, Henry Marks and his wife, Phoebe, Albert Marks, and Fred Marks; two sisters, Jessie and her husband, Richard Schipper and Reka and her husband, Conrad Schipper. John is survived by five sons, John B. Marks and his wife Elisabeth of Allison, Roger D. Marks and his wife, Joyce of Allison, Gary J. Marks and his wife, Shirley of Hampton, Orlyn L. Marks and his wife, Wendy of Parkersburg and Randy J. Marks of Waterloo; two daughters, Ardella L. Hansen and her husband, Bill of Aplington, and Dorthy A. Mehmen and her husband, Kenny of Baxter, Iowa; 21 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; one sister, Bena Knock of Cedar Falls; one sister-in-law, Elma Marks of Roscoe, Illinois; many nieces and nephews; and a special family friend, Betty Tueting. Funeral Services were held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, May 1, 2004, at the Trinity Reformed Church, Allison, Iowa with Rev. Steve Petroelje, Rev. Donald Patet and Rev. Norman Menning officiating. Keyboardist was Delores Hoodjer. Vocalist Scott Marks sang “The Anchor Holds” and Randy Aaldreks sang “O What a Savior.” Congregational Hymns were “How Great Thou Art” and “Victory in Jesus”. Casketbearers were Kevin Marks, Danny Hansen, Brandon Marks, Bryon Marks, Jason Marks, Jeffrey Marks, Joel Marks, Kurtis Marks, Scott Marks and David Mehmen. Interment was in the Allison Cemetery, Allison, Iowa. The Flower Committee was Marlys Clarke and Liz Deuell. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

05/09/04

Etta Clara Fink, age 84, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born March 11, 1920, in Grundy County near Dike, Iowa, the daughter of Sam and Effie Reiter Hayes. She graduated from Grundy Center High School and attended college at Iowa State Teachers College. Etta was united in marriage with Vernett Fink on February 23, 1945, in the Calvary Baptist Church Parsonage in Parkersburg, Iowa. The couple lived in their honeymoon flat for one year, then made their home on a farm near Parkersburg where they lived the rest of their lives. Etta taught school in Grundy County for eight years and gave piano and accordion lessons. She enjoyed working together with her husband on the farm and loved it when they were busy. Etta expressed that she always felt that they were very blessed and the Lord had been very good to them. Etta was a lifetime member of Calvary Baptist Church in Parkersburg. She had been a 4-H Volunteer and helped with the Cancer and Heart Fundraisers. She liked to spend time quilting, sewing, crocheting, doing jigsaw puzzles and reading. She taught her granddaughters needlework, passing on the art to the next generation. Etta was interested in history, especially family genealogy and had compiled a book of her family tree. Etta died Tuesday, April 27, 2004, at Sartori Memorial Hospital, Cedar Falls, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Edward and Earl Hayes. She is survived by her husband, Vernett Fink, Parkersburg, Iowa; one son, Verlyn (Betty) Fink, Parkersburg; three grandchildren, Tricia (Jason) Davis, Maple Grove, Minnesota; Heather Fink, Bozeman, Montana and Andrea Fink, Frankfort, Indiana; one sister-in-law, Mildred Hayes, Dike, Iowa and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services were held Saturday, May 1, 2004 at Calvary Baptist, Church, Parkersburg, Iowa with Rev. Anthony Bradseth officiating. Organist was Renise Aswegan. Vocalist Gloria Willms sang “Room At The Cross.” Congregational Hymns were “Old Rugged Cross” and “My God and I.” Casketbearers were Bruce Hayes, Scott Hayes, Sid Hayes, Clayton Fink, Robert Buck and George Walvate. 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 on 05/16/2004 by Gene Manning

05/24/04

Funeral services for Betty J. Brunsma, 82, of Greene, were held Monday, May 17, 2004, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greene, with Pastor Paul Uzel Officiating. Private Interment will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Betty Jo Cornell was born November 3, 1921, in Altus, Jackson County, Oklahoma, a daughter of Nelson George and Alta Blanche (Eldridge) Cornell, and died Wednesday, May 12, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City. She received her education and graduated from high school in Altus and attended junior college in Altus. She became employed as a secretary at Altus Air Base, where she met and married Bernard George Brunsma on September 16, 1943. Following his discharge in 1946 from the Air Corp they moved to Greene. Betty was employed as secretary to the Superintendent of the Greene Community School District, from 1959 to her retirement in 1983. Betty will be remembered for her love of playing Bridge. She was one of four members who formed a bridge club named Club 8, which has been in existence for over 55 years. Her other interests included gardening, knitting, word find puzzles, and reading mystery books. Betty’s family and her special pet, Maggie, was her ultimate joy. Living family members include her beloved husband: Bernard Brunsma of Greene; her children: Vicki (Craig) Smeins of Lago Vista, TX, and Steve (Barb) Brunsma of Greene; six grandchildren: Kelli (Jim) Thornton, Thomas Gray, Stephani Gray, Mitchel (Kim) Brunsma, Christopher (Angie) Brunsma, and Jordan Brunsma; one brother: George (Doris) Cornell of Oklahoma City, OK; and three nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and son, Michael, on September 29, 2003. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Betty J. Brunsma Memorial Fund in care of the family.

05/24/04

Lena Swieter, 93, of Iowa Falls formerly of Hampton, Iowa passed away May 15, 2004 at the Scenic Manor Nursing Home in Iowa Falls, Iowa. Lena was born on June 14, 1910 in Franklin County, Iowa to George and Ella (Meyer) Meyer. She attended rural Butler county Schools. She was married to Donald Swieter on January 8, 1935 in Steamboat Rock, Iowa. Lena was a homemaker and she worked part time in area restaurants. She was a member of the Bible Truth Hall in Bradford, Iowa. Lena enjoyed cooking and gardening. She is survived by three sons: LaVerne and wife Betty Swieter of Geneva, Clarence and wife Bonnie Swieter of Dumont and Walter and wife Caroline Swieter of Brighton, Colorado; two sisters: Minnie Meyer of St. Paul, Minnesota and Pearl Nielson of Michigan; seven grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son Larry, five brothers and three sisters. Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at the Sietsema-Vogel funeral Home in Hampton with John Lyman and Al Christopherson officiating. Special music was provided by organist Marlys Judas accompanying soloists Michelle Swieter and Betty Swieter. Pallbearers were Bob Ramey, David Swieter, Dennis Swieter, Brian Swieter, Donald Swieter, Dwayne Swieter and Jeremy Heilskov. Final resting place was in St. Peters Church Cemetery rural, Geneva, Iowa. Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. _______

                     Posted on 05/25/2004 by Gene Manning