January 2007


	North Central Iowa Genealogical Society Box 237 Mason City, Iowa 50402-0237

Obituary Archive

Butler
County
Iowa
including
Allison & Clarksville

Butler County
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Allison, IA 50602

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The NCIGS Butler County Archive

VIETOR

01/07/07

Alice Irene Vietor, age 88, of Allison Care Center, formerly of Parkersburg. She was born the daughter of John and Jennie (Bruns) Van Heiden on April 25, 1918, in Grundy County, near Aplington, Iowa. She received her education from a rural country school near her home. Alice was united in marriage with Earl Vietor on September 30, 1937, at the St. Peters Lutheran Church in rural Wellsburg, Iowa. They were always engaged in farming around the Parkersburg area. While living on the farm, Alice spent a lot of time helping with the farm chores. They moved to a farm north of Parkersburg in 1945 and farmed there until they retired in 1984, at which time they moved into Parkersburg. Earl passed away in January of 2000. Alice became a resident at the Allison Care Center March of 2005. Alice was a member of the First Congregational Church in Parkersburg, where she was a member of the Ladies Guild. She enjoyed tending to her garden and flowers and she enjoyed cooking and baking. Getting together and visiting with her friends and relatives and playing 500 was a much enjoyed activity. She enjoyed spending time with her family especially her grandchildren. Alice died Thursday, December 28, 2006, at the Sartori Memorial Hospital in Cedar Falls, Iowa, of natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Earl on January 10, 2000; four brothers, Ben, Sam, Bert and John Van Heiden; and one sister, Anna Willems. She is survived by one daughter, Verla Miller and her husband, Alvin of Parkersburg, IA; three grandchildren, Angela Miller, Daran (special friend, Ericka Tinnes and her two daughters, Casey & Shawni) Miller and Dalen Miller; two sisters-in-law, Lorene Vietor and Luella Van Heiden both of Aplington, IA; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral Services were at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 2, 2007, at the First Congregational Church in Parkersburg, Iowa. Officiating the services was Rev. Ron Bartlett. The Organist was Mary Ann Simon, the Vocalist, Stan Thompson sang “Where The Roses Never Fade” and “How Great Thou Art” and the Congregational Hymns were “In The Garden” and “What A Friend We Have In Jesus.” The Casketbearers were Jerald Van Heiden, Marvin Hook, Kenneth Van Heiden, Roger Van Heiden, Randy Vietor and Richard Van Heiden. The Flower Committee was Marvin & Jo Anne Hook and Roger & Carol Timmer. Interment was at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg were in charge of the arrangements. Memorials maybe directed to the family.

HOFFMAN

01/07/07

Carl Hoffman, age 90, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born December 27, 1915, the son of Lammert and Lena (DeWeerdt) Hoffman on a farm near Buck Grove in Grundy County, Iowa. He received his education in a country school near his home. Carl served in the United States Army from November 14, 1941 to October 4, 1945, during World War II. He served in the Field Artillery overseas in Wales, Belgium, Luxembourg, France and Germany. Carl enlisted a second time from July 26, 1946 to May 28, 1947, again serving overseas in Italy. Carl was united in marriage with Margaret Nicklaus on November 4, 1942, in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Margaret passed away in April of 1965. Carl married Luebertha Escher on September 14, 1974, in Galena, Illinois. Carl worked various jobs in the area through the years and retired from working for the City of Parkersburg. He also worked for the Parkersburg Community School and during many summer months he helped set up grain bins. He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Parkersburg. Carl was a life-time member of the Parkersburg American Legion for 59 years. His time served in the Army was a very important part of his life. He enjoyed speaking about his service time frequently and enjoyed traveling across the country and abroad. He enjoyed dogs, cats and wildlife in general. He especially loved spending time with his family. Carl died Sunday, December 24, 2006, at Grundy County Hospital Long Term Care, Grundy Center, Iowa, of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret; his parents; one daughter, Lisa Schultz in November, 2003; two sisters, Vera Hoffman and Leona Hoffman; and four brothers, John, Louis, and two in infancy. Carl is survived by his wife, Luebertha Hoffman of Parkersburg, Iowa; and one sister, Ethel Avery, Aplington, Iowa. Funeral Services were held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, December 28, 2006 at the Parkersburg American Legion Building, Parkersburg, Iowa with Father Dennis Quint officiating. Organist was Marvin Boelman. Congregational Hymn was “How Great Thou Art”. Vocalist Stan Thompson sang “Precious Lord, Take My Hand”. Honorary Casketbearers Dean Proffitt, Chuck Miller, Arnie Finch, Mike Mulder, and Paul Willis. Casketbearers were Doug Proffitt, Bruce Badgley, Kelly Langholz. Jim Cooper, Bill Cooper and Kevin Rogers. Burial was in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, Parkersburg, Iowa with full Military Rites conducted by Parkersburg American Legion Post # 285. Memorials may be directed to Parkersburg American Legion Post # 285. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Parkersburg, was in charge of arrangements.

MILLER

01/07/07

Harold Claus Miller, age 86, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born May 31, 1920, the son of Claus and Reka (Lursen) Miller near Dumont, Iowa, in Butler County. He received his education from a country school near his home. Harold was united in marriage with Margaret DeVries on November 13, 1940, at the Hope Reformed Church in Dumont. The couple lived north of Dumont when they were first married and then they moved to an acreage south of Dumont. In 1950, they moved to their present home in Parkersburg. Harold was employed at Rath Packing Company in Waterloo, Iowa. He also painted for Harvey Kneppe. He was formerly a member of Dumont Reformed Church and had attended the Parkersburg Methodist Church. Harold was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. His favorite was turtle hunting. Other turtle hunters brought their catch for Harold to clean. He liked to spend time in the garden as well as time visiting with everyone. Sunday was always a day to gather at mom and dad’s. Harold died Saturday, December 23, 2006, at the Maple Manor Care Center in Aplington, Iowa, of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret on February 12, 1995; and infant daughter, Judy Ann Miller; his parents; two grandsons, Michael Wildeboer and Adam Lowen; and four brothers, Kenneth, Donald, Delos and Fay Miller. Harold is survived by one son, Harold Dean Miller (special friend Deb Jacobs) of Aplington, IA; four daughters, Delores (Keith) Onnen of Perry, IA, Katheryn (Norman) Venenga of Grundy Center, IA, Mary (Chester) McBride of Aurelia, IA and Linda (Craig) Stickley, of Parkersburg, IA; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; two great great-grandchildren; and one sister, Lela Siebrands, Dumont, IA. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 27, 2006, at the Parkersburg United Methodist Church with Pastor Betsy Piette officiating. Organist was Marvin Boelman. Vocalist Stan Thompson sang “The Lords Prayer” and vocalist Tom Teeple sang “In The Garden”. Casketbearers were Jason Stickley, Brad Onnen, Jacob Frisch, Mitch Onnen, Chisum Frisch and Boyd Onnen. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home, Parkersburg, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

CROTTY

01/07/07

Elizabeth Ann Crotty, 75, of Waverly, Iowa, died on Thursday, December 28, 2006 at ManorCare in Waterloo, Iowa. Elizabeth was born on July 21, 1931 in Hampton, Iowa, the daughter of Ira Lee and Alma (Thomas) Wilson. She attended school in Hampton and graduated from Hampton High School in 1949. On October 15, 1950 she was united in marriage to Robert D. Crotty at the First Methodist Church in Hampton, Iowa. After their marriage they made their home in Mason City. In 1965, they moved to Waverly and Elizabeth started working for CUNA Mutual. She was in the investments department and worked there until April of 1994.Elizabeth and Robert enjoyed spending time at their summer home in Lake City, Minnesota, which they purchased in 1980. Robert died on April 12, 1989 and she continued spending summers in Lake City. She also enjoyed attending her grandchildren and great grandchildren’s activities. Elizabeth is survived by her three daughters, Cheryl (Dan) Breitbach of Waverly, Iowa; Pamela (Vern)Meyer of Osage, Iowa; Vickie (Jim) Chesnut of Clarksville, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Ryan Breitbach of Clarksville, Iowa; Dawn (Bill) Ison of Clarksville, Iowa; Kody (Heather)Breitbach of Clarksville,Iowa; Jessie (Jeff) Havel of Center Point, Iowa; Jadie Meyer of Des Moines, Iowa; Jeni (Will) Walker of Des Moines, Iowa; Libi Chesnut of Clarksville, Iowa; twelve great grandchildren, Sadie Breitbach of Clarksville, Iowa; Danielle and Cade Ison of Clarksville, Iowa; Justine Breitbach of Waverly, Iowa; Jasmine, Zachary, and Nichole Breitbach of Clarksville, Iowa; Braylon and Blayze Havel of Center Point, Iowa; Jayden and Tyson Walker of Des Moines, Iowa; and Jacob Norton of Clarksville, Iowa; one sister, Gerry (Bud) Pletsch of Alexander, Iowa; two sister in laws, Ada Wilson and Dorothy Wilson; two brother in laws, Carl Crotty and Ken Crotty; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Robert in 1989 Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 2, 2007 at 2:00 pm at Trinity United Methodist Church, Waverly with Pastor Tony Nester officiating. Burial was in Harlington Cemetery, Waverly. Memorials may be directed to the family and a fund will be established at a later date. Online condolences can be left at www.kaisercorson.com .

GROEN

01/15/07

Irvin Vern Groen, 89, of Shell Rock, Iowa and formerly of Plainfield, died Friday afternoon, January 5, 2007, at the Shell Rock Healthcare Center of natural causes. Irvin was born on November 28, 1917, in Aplington, Iowa, the son of Pete and Dena (Eckhoff) Groen. Irvin was baptized on March 10, 1921 in Hardin County and later confirmed at First United Church of Christ -Pleasant Valley, rural Clarksville. Irvin attended country school in rural Shell Rock and then attended the Clarksville School system through the 8th grade. On July 9, 1942, Irvin entered the U.S. Army during WW II. On December 1, 1942, Irvin was united in marriage to Doris Deike at the First United Church of Christ in Pleasant Valley. Irvin then continued with the military, serving his country in Rome, Naples, Southern France, Ardennes, Rhineland, Italy, North Africa and Central Europe. He was honorably discharged on November 14, 1945, and returned to the states. Irvin and Doris made their home on a farm near Plainfield, where Irvin farmed for many years, retiring in 1982. In 1990 the couple made their home in Shell Rock and on December 9, 2006, they both became residents of the Shell Rock Healthcare Center. Irvin was a longtime member of First United Church of Christ -Pleasant Valley. In his spare time, Irvin enjoyed woodworking, fishing and spending time with friends and family, especially his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Doris of the Shell Rock Healthcare Center, his four children and their spouses, Perry and Norma Groen of Waverly, Veryl and Bonnie Groen of Waverly, Rhonda and Gary Brase of Plainfield, Brian and Sheryl Groen of Mingo, Iowa; 10 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; eight brothers and sisters, Art Groen of Shell Rock, Ray Groen of Waverly, Marvin “Bud” Groen of Waterloo, Ethel Buskohl of Holland, Ione Gosch of Clarksville, Dorothy Brocka of Bristow, Marlys Schrage of Allison and Beulah Vetter of Nashua. Irvin was preceded in death by his parents, one grandson, Matthew Groen, one great grandson, Blaise Brase, two brothers, Bill and Bernard Groen and one sister, Ruth Ellerman. Celebration of Life Services were held on Tuesday, January 9, 2007 at the First United Church of Christ Church - Pleasant Valley, rural Clarksville, with Pastor Anne Sunday officiating. Burial was in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery, rural Clarksville, with military graveside rites conducted by the American Legion Post #176 of Waverly. Memorials may be directed to family. Online condolences may be left for Irvin at www.kaisercorson.com

SHULTZ

01/22/07

Donald Glen Shultz, 70, Mason City, died Wednesday, January 10, 2007, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City. Funeral services were held Monday, January 15, 2007, at the Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126-3rd Street NE, Mason City, with Reverend Jim Magelson of Trinity Lutheran Church in Mason City officiating. Burial was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene, with military graveside honors conducted by members of the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association. Donald Glen Shultz was born on June 14, 1936, in Dougherty, Iowa, the son of Galen Shultz, Sr. and Esther (Uker) Shultz. He received his education in the Greene Community School, graduating from Greene High School in 1953. He was inducted into the U.S. Army on February 7, 1957, and was honorably discharged on November 7, 1958. He was united in marriage to Joyce Landers on March 22, 1959 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Greene. After their marriage Donald farmed in rural Dougherty until moving to Mason City in 1980. Donald owned and operated Ultra Sun Incorporated in Mason City for 25 years and due to health reasons he retired in 2005. He enjoyed fishing, horseback riding, gardening, camping, visiting with family and friends, and loved his dog Penny. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Moose Lodge and the Eagles all in Mason City. Left to cherish his memory are his children; Julia (Mike Schmitz) Towsley of Greene, and Dave Shultz of Dougherty, and special friend Jill Jensen of Greene; Joyce Shultz of Waverly, Grandson; Kolten Thovson of Dougherty, a sister; Lois Adams of Marble Rock, a brother-in-law; Joe Neal of Marble Rock, several nieces and nephews, as well as other relatives and friends. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, son; Doug Shultz, sister; Donna Neal, and a brother; Galen “Bud” Shultz Jr.

GISLER

01/22/07

Charles Gisler was born in Waverly, Iowa on August 30th, 1936 to Bessie Lowder and Clarence Gisler. His mother died in 1939 and then Clarence married Helen Hartwig in 1940. Chuck attended high school at Clarksville and also worked for Bernard Wygle on his farm. After graduation in 1953 Chuck enlisted in the Marines. On his return to Iowa he worked for Collins Radio in Cedar Rapids. He married Diane Holsten in 1959 and they had two daughters. They later divorced. Chuck began working for Courtesy Manufacturing, a metal components company in 1972 that called for a move to Denver, Colorado. In the following years, Chuck lived in Chicago and Denver. He married Phyllis Lamp in 1988. They moved to Palisade, Colorado, in 1994 where they had a vineyard and orchard where they grew peaches and wine grapes. Chuck had a brief struggle with cancer before passing peacefully at home. His parents, a sister, Mary Scott and his daughter Lisa preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Phyllis, of Palisade; a daughter Lori, Palisade; stepchildren Jodi Travis, Palisade; Steve Olson and John Olson, both of Denver; two grandchildren, five step grandchildren, a sister Carolyn Fenneman, Clarksville; a nephew Chris Fenneman, Clarksville; two nieces Kristi Anhalt, Cedar Falls and Kathleen Ubben, Ackley. A military service was held at the Palisade Cemetery on Saturday, January 6, with a celebration of life following the service. Chuck requested memorials might be made to the VA Medical Center in memory of Charles Gisler (135), 2121 North Avenue, Grand Junction, Colorado, 81501. Condolences may be sent to Phyllis Gisler, 835 Lincoln Ct, P.O. Box 624, Palisade, Colorado 81526. Snell-McLean Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

SCHEIDECKER

01/22/07

Louise Scheidecker, 83, of rural Clarksville, died Saturday, January 6, 2007, at the Community Nursing Home in Clarksville. Louise Scheidecker was born October 16, 1923, on the Scheidecker family farm in Butler County, the daughter of William and Martha (Felton) Scheidecker. She received her education at the Fremont #8 school in Butler County and took Practical Nurses Training at Minneapolis. Louis was employed at the Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis for four years. She then returned to the farm to care for her mother, and after her mother’s death, remained to assist her brothers on the farm. At an early age she professed Jesus Christ as her Savior and associated with the Charles City Assembly. Louise was a loving sister, sister-in-law, and special aunt, and she will be remembered for her great gifts of hospitality and care giving. Living family members include a sister, Martha Imig of Wausau, Wisconsin; a sister-in-law, Marjorie Scheidecker of Charles City; and 18 nieces and nephews, Margaret (Harry) Twiss of Anoka, Minnesota, Wesley (Shirley) Hunt of Elk River, Minnesota, Merlin (Betsy) Hunt of Anoka, Minnesota, Paul (Sharon) Hunt of Bemidji, Minnesota, Mary (Allan) Whiteside of Charles City, Dorothy (David) Kasper of Brookville, Pennsylvania, William (Martha) Scheidecker of Hampton, Robert (Pauline) Scheidecker of Clarksville, James (Jennifer) Scheidecker of Anoka, Minnesota, Celia (Brian) Prigge of St. Cloud, Minnesota, John (Jeanie) Scheidecker and Ralph (Margaret) Scheidecker both of Clarksville, Janet (Colyn) Roberts of Nassau, Bahamas, Eileen (Doug) Prigge of Kenyon, Minnesota, Joyce Costen of Suffolk, Virginia, Marvin (Linda) Imig of Wausau, Wisconsin, David (Terri) Imig of Blaine, Minnesota, and Joan (Richard) Tomkinson of Richfield, Minnesota. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, William, Paul, Alfred and Harvey Scheidecker, and a sister, Dorothy Hunt. Funeral services were held Wednesday, January 10, 2007, at the Charles City Assembly with Mr. Steve Faulkner officiating. Burial was in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Nashua. Hauser Funeral Home, Charles City, was in charge of arrangements.

BLISS

01/22/07

Jeanette M. Bliss, 69, of Clarinda and formerly from Waverly, Iowa passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 10, 2007 of natural causes, after a long and brave battle with mental illness at the Clarinda Treatment Center in Clarinda, Iowa. Jeanette Margaret was born on January 30, 1937 in Dumont, Iowa the daughter of Jacob and Dora (Kampman) Tuil. She was baptized on August 8, 1937 at the Dumont Reformed Church and confirmed on April 6, 1952 at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison, Iowa. Jeanette attended country school in Butler County, near Allison and graduated from Allison High School. On July 21, 1957, she was united in marriage to Donald Bliss, they were later divorced. Jeanette worked at 1st National Bank of Waverly, Iowa for a short time and spent many happy years working at the Larabee Center in Waverly. She loved children enjoyed poetry, crafts, and most of all her family. Survivors are her son, Marvin (DeAnn) Bliss of Waverly, Iowa; grandchildren, Jeromiah (Missy) Bliss, John (Sarah) Bliss, Adrianna Bloker and Chelsey Bliss. Jeanette is also survived by two sisters, Christina (Terry) Knox of LosLumas, New Mexico and Grace (Tom) Poock of Waverly, Iowa. Jeanette will be dearly missed by her nieces and nephews, Clinton and Sara Poock, Jason and LaDonna Poock, Chris and Angie Schmitt, Matthew Poock and Joseph Siplon. Her parents and a brother in infancy preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 3:00 pm at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Waverly, Iowa. Burial will be in the Dumont Cemetery in Dumont, Iowa. Friends may call from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Friday at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly, Iowa and one hour prior to services on Saturday at the church. Memorials may be left to the direction of the family and online condolences may be left at www.kaisercorson.com.

NIEHAUS

01/22/07

Emory Carl Niehaus, 90, of Allison, Iowa died Sunday afternoon, January 14, 2007, at the Allison Healthcare Center of natural causes. Services were held Wednesday, January 17, at St. John’s Lutheran Church (Vilmar) in Greene, Iowa, with Pastor Mark Walker officiating. Burial was in the Vilmar Cemetery. Emory was born on January 4, 1917, in rural Allison, the son of Herman and Wilhelmina (Minnie Wiebke) Niehaus. Emory was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran (Vilmar) in Greene and attended country school. From 1941 - 1945, Emory served in the army during World War II and was awarded the Bronze Star for ground achievement in the European Theatre. After his honorable discharge, he returned home to continue farming and working in the Allison Post Office. In 1955, he was married to Lieselotte (Liesa) Rosenau, and they made their home on the family farm north of Allison, where they lived until moving to town in 1986. Emory was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran church, Vilmar, and served as organist for over 60 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing for numerous weddings and special events, gardening and especially spending time with his family and grandchildren. Emory is survived by his wife of 51 years, Liesa, of Allison; his two daughters and their spouses, Mary and Paul Miller of Iowa City, Iowa, and Marcia and Pat Larson of Allison, Iowa; three grandchildren, Alyson and Lauren Miller and Scott Burak; one sister, Mrs. Lela Reints of Cedar Falls, Iowa. Emory was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Martin Niehaus, of Clarksville.

ABBAS

01/30/07

Arlene Abbas, age 76, of Aplington, Iowa, was born December 16, 1930, the daughter of Arend G. and Lizzie (Bunk) Abbas on the family farm in Butler County near Aplington. Arlene graduated from the Aplington High School in 1949. Arlene worked as a private care giver after graduation, caring for elderly people in their homes. She also worked at one time for the County Home in Butler County and the Presbyterian Village in Ackley, Iowa. Arlene participated in the Hawkeye Tech Senior Companion program through which she was given an award for her many hours of service. She also served on the Maple Manor Care Center Care Review Board in Aplington. Arlene was a member of First Reformed Church in Aplington, Iowa. She volunteered with Share Iowa and helped distribute the food. Arlene participated in a Ladies Guild and a singles group. She continued the tradition that her mother had begun of knitting booties for the new babies. Arlene especially enjoyed visiting with her family and her nieces and nephews gave her great pleasure. Arlene died Tuesday, January 16, 2007, at the Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, from natural causes. She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother-in-law, Herman Gruis. Arlene is survived by one brother, George (Jane) Abbas, Aplington, Iowa; one sister, Adeline Gruis, Austin, Minnesota; and seven nieces and nephews: Beverly Branford, Linda Squires, Susan Heilkema, Duane Gruis, Gregory Abbas, Jeffrey Abbas, Bradley Abbas and 15 great nieces and nephews: Matthew, Michael, Steven, Joey, Ellie, Rebekah, Jonathan, Katie, Jennie, Tommy, Nastya, Eliana, Benjamin, Isabelle and Lenny. Funeral Services were held at 1:30, Friday, January 19, 2007 at First Reformed Church, Aplington, Iowa with Pastor Harlan DeJong officiating. Organist was Lois Wessels. Vocalist Tony Poppens sang “His Eye Is On the Sparrow”. Congregational Hymns were “What a Day That Will Be” and “The Way of the Cross Leads Home”. Casketbearers were Bob Poppens, Laverne Eilers, John Anderson, Elvin Wiese, Art Buseman and Bennett Franken. Burial was in the Christian Reformed Cemetery, Ackley, Iowa. Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel, Aplington, was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the family.

OLTMANN

01/30/07

Erwin D. Oltmann, 69, of Cedar Falls died Friday, January 19, 2007 at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo. Erwin was born may 13, 1937 at Allison, Iowa, the son of John & Anna (Johnson) Oltmann. He graduated from Allison High School in 1955 and served in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1960. He married Betty Jean Feldman March 31, 1957 at First Presbyterian Church in Greene, Iowa. Erwin was employed as a Dyno Operator at John Deere for 39 years retiring in August of 1994. Survivors include his wife, Betty, of Cedar Falls; three sons, Jeff (Deb) Oltmann of Cedar Falls, Kent Oltmann of Denver, Iowa and Ross (Kim) Oltmann of Cedar Rapids; four grandchildren, Lauren, Jordan, Aaron and Taylor; and two brothers, Dennis (Janet) Oltmann of Westminster, Colorado and Merrill (Diane) Oltmann of Evansdale. He was preceded in death by his parents and two nephews in infancy. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at St. John Lutheran Church with interment at Fairview Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by Cedar Falls AMVETS Post 49. Public visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Dahl-Van Hove-Schoof Funeral Home and for one hour prior to service time at the church on Tuesday. Memorials may be directed to the family.

OTT

01/30/07

Funeral services for Avis N. Ott, 90, of Greene, were held Wednesday, January 24 at the United Methodist Church in Greene with Pastor Ashok Patet officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Avis Nettie Maxwell was born November 13, 1916 in rural Coldwater Township, Butler County a daughter of Arthur Eugene and Emma (Mettler)Maxwell, and died Friday, January 19, 2007 at the Allison Health Care Center in Allison. She received her education in the rural Coldwater Country School and Greene Public Schools graduating in 1934. As a young lady she taught in the rural schools near Greene and on November 22, 1937 he was united in marriage to Harry Burdette Ott at Mt. Vernon, Iowa. To this union were born three children: Dennis Harry, Sheryl Jean and Mark Maxwell. Harry and Avis farmed west of Greene until 1946 when they moved on their present farm south of Greene. She enjoyed golfing, fishing and traveling. Her travels included trips to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Guam. Avis and Harry spent their winters in Hemet, CA. for thirty years. Avis’ family was very important to her especially the time spent with her grandchildren. She was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church, UMW, P.E.O. Chapter CC Sisterhood, Round Grove Country Club, and various Bridge clubs. Living family members include her daughter: Sheryl (Dr. Thomas) Nixt of Honolulu, two sons: Dennis (Mary Lou) Ott of Greene and Dr. Mark (Pamela) Ott of Cherry Valley, CA; six grandchildren:Theresa Ann (Tom) Fennel, Sonya Marie (Todd) Blanchford, Matthew Thomas (Jenny) Nixt, Angela Jean (Doug) Lee, Zachari Kyler (Edna) Ott, Justin Maxwell (Oralia) Ott; seven great grandchildren: Anjelica Jean Nixt, Alexandra Rose Nixt; Adrian Kyle Nixt, Taylor and Riley Blanchford, Zoe and Sydney Ott; and one sister, Fern Daiker She was preceded in death by her parents and three sisters: Luella Strand, Mae Garms, and Esther Fidler; and four brothers: Bert Maxwell, Claude Maxwell, DeLoss Maxwell, and Clem Maxwell. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Avis N. Ott Memorial Fund in care of the family.

IKENBERRY

01/30/07

Funeral services for Kenneth E. Ikenberry, 88, formerly of Greene were held Saturday, January 20, at Reid’s Funeral Chapel, Greene, with Rev. Paul Uzel officiating. Interment was in the Westside Cemetery, Marble Rock. Kenneth E. Ikenberry was born June 17, 1918 in Scott Township, Floyd County, the son of Glenn and Alma (Schmidt) Ikenberry and died Wednesday, January 17, 2007 in the Hospice Unit of the Floyd County Memorial Hospital, Charles City. He received his education in the rural Floyd and Butler County Schools near Greene. Kenneth was disabled and made his home with his parents throughout his life. On March 30, 1999 he moved to the Liebe Care Center in Greene. “Kenny” as he was known to his friends, could be found downtown on any given day. He loved to stop by the elevator and other local businesses for coffee and a visit. He enjoyed fishing and was proud to have been included in a fishing trip to Minnesota. Kenny was a member of the “Sixty Plus Club” and was routinely given a ride to the Greene Community Center for dinner and a game of “500”. Kenny was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Greene. He is survived by several cousins and a community of friends. Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Kenneth E. Ikenberry Memorial Fund in care of the First Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 160, Greene, Iowa 50636-0160.

BACKER

01/30/07

Funeral services for John Backer Sr. 85, of Greene, were held Tuesday, January 23, at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Pastor Gary Hatcher officiating. Burial was in the Rose Hill Cemetery with Military Rites conducted by Tack- Barnett Post 268 American Legion of Greene. John Jip Backer was born September 15, 1921, rural Jackson Township, Butler County, a son of John H. And Augusta Wiedenbeck (DeBower) Backer, and died Friday, January 19, 2007 at the Liebe Care Center in Greene. He was baptized on July 6, 1924 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Clarksville and received his education in the rural Butler County Schools near Clarksville, graduating from the Charles City High School in 1941. John began work at the Oliver Farm Equipment Co. in Charles City and later at a drugstore in Washington, DC. He was inducted into the United States Army on October 6, 1942, where he first served with the infantry. John completed Army Air Corp Radio School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Gunnery School in Yuma, Arizona. He deployed with the 15th Army Air Corp, 341st Bombardier Squadron to Foggia, Italy. John flew eleven combat missions as a radio operator gunner, and among other honors, was awarded the Air Medal. He achieved the rank of Tech Sergeant. John was united in marriage to Ethel Lenore Pyle on April 12, 1944 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Following his discharge on October 20, 1945, John and Ethel farmed near Charles City, and then at Powersville, before locating in the Greene area in 1957. John was an active member of the community, serving as a 4-H Leader, Church Council Member, Board Member of ASCS, Greene Co-op Elevator, Round Grove Country Club, Tack-Barnett Post 268 American Legion of Greene, and the VFW. He and Ethel enjoyed golfing, fishing, bowling, and the company of their many friends in both Iowa and during their winter travels to Arizona. He is survived by hie wife of 62 years, Ethel; a brother: Donald (Evelyn) of Waterloo, IA, a sister: Gladys Blunt of Charles City, IA; four sons: John (Esther) of Greene, Mark (Linda) of Arcadia, WI, Paul (Wendy) of Sun City West, AZ, and Joel (Suzanne) of Fort Collins, CO., six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren: John (Mindi) Backer and Liza of Peoria, Il., Teresa (Jason) Thompson and Jaxon of Denver, CO., Bryan (Kyrsten) Backer and Tavin and Reese of Altadena, CA., Corinne (Andy) Brzeski, Sadie, and Ava of Ixonia, WI., Amy (Matt) Lamp of Tempe, AZ. And Tony (Krystal) Backer and Anthony of Mason City, and numerous extended family members. John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Augusta, and siblings Harry Backer, August Backer, Grace (Backer) Thomas Billings Ackerman, Paul (Bill) Backer, and Betty (Backer)Jordan Durham. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the John J. Backer Memorial Fund in care of the family.

DIETRICH

01/30/07

Roger Carl Dietrich, 75, of Clarksville, Iowa, formerly of Waverly, Iowa and Ionia, Iowa, died on January 7, 2007, at the Community Nursing Home in Clarksville of natural causes. Roger was born on July 27, 1931, in Bremer County, Iowa, the son of Gus and Lily (Schrage) Dietrich. He attended school and graduated from Waverly High School in 1949. On November 10, 1950, he was united in marriage to Beverly Strotman at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Waverly. The couple began farming near Ionia until their retirement in 1994, when they began renting their land. In February of 1999, they sold the farm and moved to their home in Clarksville. Beverly passed away of cancer on April 11, 1999 and Roger has remained living at their home in Clarksville. Roger is survived by one brother, Ronald Dietrich of Wisconsin; one sister, Marlys Bergman of Colorado; and many nieces and nephews. Private family graveside services will be held on Friday at Harlington Cemetery in Waverly. Memorials may be directed to Cedar Valley Hospice, 207 20th St. N.W., in Waverly.

SCHRAGE

01/30/07

Verlyn Henry Schrage, 82, of Allison, Iowa died January 19, 2007 at Bartels Lutheran Home in Waverly, Iowa of natural causes. He was born on June 16, 1924 in rural Allison to Fred and Mathilda (Kramer) Schrage. Verlyn was educated in Jackson #7 country school and finished at Jefferson Township country school. On October 26, 1950 he was united in marriage to Marlys Tack at Colfax Presbyterian Church in Holland, Iowa. He was a farmer and was a member of St. James Lutheran Church in Allison. Verlyn enjoyed gardening, fishing, boating, traveling and loved history and he enjoyed his family and was a member of the Democratic Party. He is survived by his wife Marlys Schrage, Allison; Daughter Connie & husband Rev. Larry McAlpine, Laurens, IA; Grandsons: Larry J. & wife April McAlpine, Treynor, IA and Thomas McAlpine, Ankeny, IA; Granddaughter: Jennifer & husband Doug Maaske, Portland, TX; Great grandchildren: Faith, Riley & Samuel McAlpine; Brother: Floyd & wife Evelyn Schrage, Parkersburg, IA; Sisters: Muriel Dix, Aplington, IA, VerJean & husband John Johnson, Cedar Falls, IA and Shirley Sutherland, Santee, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brother-in-laws. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison with Rev. Jeffrey A. Blank officiating. Special music was provided by organist Vivian Green accom-panying the duet of Randy & Camie Aalderks. Pallbearers were Kim Dix, Jeff Hanson, Jeff Johnson, Doug Maaske, Larry J. McAlpine and Thomas McAlpine. Memorials may be directed to Lamp Post Christian Theater 204 West Seerly Blvd., Cedar Falls, IA 50613, or St. James Lutheran Church in Allison, Iowa. Final resting place was in the Allison Cemetery with Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

BACKER

01/30/07

Dallas W. Backer, 49, Hamilton, Missouri, formerly of Lake Mills, Iowa, passed away on January 17, 2007, at St. Luke’s Hospital-North. He had lived in Hamilton for the past 19 years and had been a teacher, teaching in the Mirabile, MO, school district for six years and the Kansas City, MO, school district for the past 14 years. Born on April 12, 1957, in Yuba City, California, to Virgil and Berniece Skinner Backer Fuls, he had retired from the Air National Guard and had also served in the Army National Guard. He was a member of the Hamilton United Methodist Church. Dallas was preceded in death by an infant son, Joseph; a brother, Jimmy; and his step-father, Elton Fuls. On June 18, 1977, he married Sonja Nelson at the Saint Olaf Lutheran Church in Belmond, Iowa. She survives of the home. Other survivors: Two daughters, Melissa and Solveig Backer, both of Minnetonka, Minnesota; Son, Ben Backer, of the home; Mother, Berniece Fuls, Hamilton; two sisters, Shari Ross, Emmett, Idaho; and Inez Jean, California; and two brothers, Charles, Mesa AZ, and Virgil, Corpus Christie, TX. The body was cremated. Memorial service was held Monday, January 22, 2007 at the Hamilton United Methodist Church. Inurnment at a later date at the Saint Olaf Lutheran Church Cemetery, Belmond, IA. Memorials: to the church building/youth fund. Bram Funeral Home of Hamilton, Missouri was in charge of arrangements.

January 2007

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