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

Obituary Archive

Floyd County

Charles City Press

801 Riverside Drive
Charles City, IA 50616

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The NCIGS Floyd County Archive


Helen M. Springer

NASHUA - Helen M. Springer, 90, of Nashua, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2002, at the Windsor Care Center in Cedar Falls of natural causes. Funeral services for Helen are tentatively being planned for Friday, Oct. 4, 2002, at the United Methodist Church with burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, both in Nashua.Visitation will be Thursday, October 3, at Chenoweth and Son Funeral Home in Nashua with times to be announced later.

Chenoweth and Son Funeral Home in Nashua is in charge of arrangements.


                            Posted by Gene Manning on 10/2/02


Gilbert E. Auringer

OMAHA, Neb. - Gilbert E. Auringer, age 88, passed away Oct. 1, 2002, at Omaha, Neb. A memorial service was held, Thursday, Oct 3. 2002, at John A. Gentlemen Mortuaries, Westside Chapel, 1010 N. 72nd St., Omaha, Nebraska. Memorials may be directed to the Salvation Army.

He is survived by a daughter, Jan Baum, Omaha, Neb.; a son Al Auringer of Sacramento, Calif.; one granddaughter, Cheri and her husband Kevin Sorensen, Omaha, Neb.; two brothers, Robert Auringer of Floyd, and Max Auringer of Albuquerque, NM; and a sister, June Stephen of Charles City.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marian (Shuster) Auringer, and parents, Paul and Stella Auringer of Charles City.


 Harlan H. Steere

ALLISON - Harlan H. Steere, 52, of 17221 Keystone Avenue, Allison, died Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2002, along with his son, Brock, as a result of a farming accident near their home. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. today, Friday, Oct. 4, 2002, at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison, with Pastor Jerry Laehn officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church.

Harlan Henry Steere was born May 29, 1950, on the family farm in Coldwater Township, Butler County, a son of William Jr. and Mildred (Rover) Steere.

He received his education in the Greene Public Schools graduating in 1968. Having grown up on the farm he learned all the aspects of farming and land stewardship from his father and grandfather. Following graduation he continued to work on the family farm. He was united in marriage to Debra Jo Wangsness on Feb. 22, 1975, at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison. They lived east of Greene the first year of their marriage and then moved to their present farm. To this union were born four children: Renee, Brett, Jill and Brock.

Throughout his career as a farmer he never lost sight of the principles of farming and stewardship that he was taught. He was precise and meticulous in the way he farmed and raised his livestock. The family tradition continued by him passing it on to his sons who helped him on the farm. He was a supporter of the 4-H program and enjoyed helping his children get ready for county and state fair. He enjoyed going to the sale barns and seeing his friends and acquaintances there. The only time he would stop work would be for the grandchildren. He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church, Butler County Farm Bureau, and Pheasants Forever. Harlan was well respected in the farming community, and a friend to many, as well as a devoted husband, father and grandfather who cherished those special family times with his children and grandchildren.

Living family members include his loving wife: Deb of Allison; three children and their spouses: Renee (Michael) Salge of Greene, Brett Steere and his friend Lisa Stauffer of Allison, Jill (Mark) Lamborn of Luana, and Harlan's "Third Daughter" Lisa (Ternus) and her husband Nate Gronewald of Albia; three grandchildren: Taylor, Kaleb, and Brynn Salge and one on the way; his mother: Milderd Steere of Greene; four sisters: Marlys (Jim) Nixt of Greene, Marilyn Steere of Waverly, Marcia (Bruce) Trey of Scottsdale Ariz., Peg (Dennis) Griffin of Greene; his brother Charles Steere of Greene; mother and father-in-law: Ken and Ila Wangsness of Allison. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father William Steere Jr.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family.

Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene is in charge of arrangements


Brock H. Steere

ALLISON - Brock H. Steere, 18, of 17221 Keystone Avenue, Allison, died Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2002, along with his father, Harlan, as a result of a farming accident near their home. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. today, Friday, Oct. 4, 2002, at St. James Lutheran Church in Allison, with Pastor Jerry Laehn officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church.

Brock Harlan Steere was born Nov. 30, 1983, at the Waverly Municipal Hospital, a son of Harlan Henry and Debra Jo (Wangsness) Steere.

He received his education in the Allison-Bristow Public Schools graduating in 2002. Brock was an athlete extraordinaire whose passion and life was basketball. He started basketball in elementary and junior high school going directly to varsity as a four year starter and letterman. He was Most Valuable Player for two years in a row, unanimous choice first team all conference. He was chosen as Homecoming King in 2001. Recently he had been coaching little kids basketball and was planning to get his coaching endorsement.

In football, Brock was a three year varsity player and was first team All State Iowa Newspaper Association. Senior year, First Team All District Unanimous Choice. In track, he was a state Qualifier in the High Jump during his junior year.

Growing up on the farm he learned farming the same way his dad did. He was actively engaged in 4-H, having received many awards at both the county and state fair. He received the Iowa State Fair Reserve Champion Heavy Weight Gilt. Recently he had started raising Club Calves.

Brock was a well liked person who got along with both the young and old. He enjoyed teasing his two nieces and one nephew, and spending time with his special friend Ashley. His other interests included hunting and fishing. He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church and was an avid Cyclone fan.

Brock is survived by his loving mother, Deb, of Allison; three siblings and their spouses: Renee (Michael) Salge of Greene, Brett Steere and his friend Lisa Stauffer of Allison, Jill (Mark) Lamborn of Luana, and Brock's "Third Sister" Lisa (Ternus) and her husband Nate Gronewald of Albia; his special friend Ashley Henrichs of Allison; two nieces Taylor and Brynn Salge and nephew, Kaleb, and one on the way; his paternal grandmother, Mildred Steere, of Greene; and maternal grandparents, Ken and Ila Wangsness, of Allison. Also surviving are many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather William Steere Jr.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family.

Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene is in charge of arrangements.


                    Posted By Gene Manning on 10/4/02


Darrell 'Bud' Gray

Darrell M. 'Bud' Gray, 85, a resident of 707 Allison Street, Charles City, died Friday, Oct. 4, 2002, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

Funeral services for Darrell 'Bud' Gray will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Trinity United Methodist Church. The Rev. Gayle Wilcox, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. There will be a flag presentation by the Charles City Ceremonial Unit.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, and an hour prior to the services at the church on Monday.

Darrell Milton Gray was born Feb. 24, 1917, in Floyd County, the son of Milton and Alice (Hannum) Gray. He graduated from the Charles City High School and worked for C. G. Gray Coal and Oil Company. 'Bud' joined the United States Army Air Force in February, 1942, as an aviation cadet following a college refresher course sponsored by the local Elks Lodge. Upon completing his pilot training in November, 1942, he was assigned as a B24 pilot and sent to the South Pacific with a heavy bomb squadron to bomb Japanese airfields and naval supply ships. After his combat tour of duty he was assigned to headquarters flight section of the South Pacific Area ferrying VIP's to various South Pacific islands. He remained active in the Air Force Reserve until retiring in 1977 as a Lt. Colonel.

On Oct. 25, 1942, he was united in marriage to Margaret Gueffroy. Together they owned and operated Bud Gray's Economy Oil Company until they retired. They enjoyed their summer home in Northern Minnesota for many years and their travels about the United States during the winter. Margaret died on July 5, 1994. On Sept. 27, 1996, 'Bud' married Verna Idler. They went on many bus tours and a few boat cruises around the U.S.A. including a visit to the Hawaiian Islands where 'Bud' had served as an Air Force pilot. He was a lifetime member of Trinity United Methodist Church, American Legion, V.F.W., Reserve Officer Association, Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, and the Senior Citizens Center.

Living family members include his wife, Verna of Charles City; a daughter Jean Bennett and husband Robert of Storm Lake; a grandson, Jason Bennett and wife Amanda, a granddaughter, Bethany Bennett; two step daughters, Connie Francis and husband Frank of Fort Dodge, and Julie Rice and husband Al of Scottsdale, Ariz.; two step granddaughters, Becky and Tracy Reitmeier; a sister, Susan Depew and husband David of Kerkhoven, Minn.; brother, James Gray and wife Judy of Bemidji, Minn.; and several nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Mary Kelsey, Evelyn Godfrey, and Maxine Brady; and step mother, Dorthea Gray.


                       Posted by Gene Manning on 10/7/02


Donald Jacobson

ALBERT LEA, Minn. - Donald Thomas Jacobson died Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2002, at the Good Samaritan Center in Albert Lea, Minn. He was 82 years old. The graveside service for Donald Thomas Jacobson of the Good Samaritan Center will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, 2002, at Graceland Cemetery in Albert Lea, Minn. Pastor John Holt will officiate. Military Honors will be accorded.

Donald was born Feb. 7, 1920 in Albert lea, Minn., son of Henry A. and Ellen N. (Mork) Jacobson. He was baptized Sept. 14, 1921, in Freeborn, Minn., and was confirmed in May of 1934, at First Lutheran Church, Albert Lea, with Rev. Sigurd Sorenson officiating. After graduating from Albert Lea High School, Don was employed at Moulton Food Stores until he enlisted in the Army Air Force in 1941. That same year he was also united in marriage with Helen Lunschen.

He served four years in the Air Force as a flight officer, with two and a half years of that time spent in Australia, New Guinea, Philippine and Japanese Islands, receiving an honorable discharge and attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.

In 1946, Mr. Jacobson was employed at Interstate Power Co. until he owned Jacobson's Grocery. In 1955, he became Purchases and Sales Manager of Automotive Accessory Products at Universal Cooperatives and after 27 years of service retired in 1982.

Don was a life member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veteran, Elks and Masonic Lodge. He was devoted to his country and spent many hours as Chairman of the committee to erect the Veteran Memorial Monument in Graceland Cemetery which is now available for everyone to view.

Donald was preceded in death by two sons, Thomas Donald and David Thomas; his parents, Henry A. and Ellen N.; two brothers, Kenneth and Robert.

He is survived by his daughter, Bette Jean and husband Dan Knecht of Ionia; two granddaughters: Cher Nichole and her husband Scott Anderson of Mason City and Brandi Faith Nehls of Mason City; five great-grandchildren: Tyler, Parker, Brooke, Maranda and Jordan; one niece and three nephews and their families.

Don will be sadly missed by his family and friends. (A quiet man with much spoken through his heart.)

Memorials are preferred to the American Legion Fund Drive.

The Bonnerup Funeral Service in Albert Lea, Minn., is in charge of arrangements.


Clarence "Click" Woyach

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City for Clarence "Click" Woyach, 85, a resident of 3031 Clark Street, Charles City, who died Tuesday, October 8, 2002, at his residence.


                        Posted on 10/9/02 by Gene Manning


Clarence "Click" Woyach

Clarence "Click" Woyach, 85, a resident of 3031 Clark Street, Charles City, died Tuesday, Oct. 8, at his residence. Funeral services for Clarence "Click" Woyach will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11, 2002, at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City. The Reverend Dennis Niezwaag, pastor of Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. There will be a flag presentation by the Charles City Ceremonial Unit.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 4 to 8 p.m. today, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2002, and from 9 a.m. until service time on Friday.

Clarence Ted Woyach was born May 7, 1917, in Leyden Township, Ill., the son of Charles and Bertha (Fick) Woyach. He received his education at Melrose Park, Ill. Clarence served in the United States Army from 1942 to 1945. He received the Victory Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with one Bronze Battle Star, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one Bronze Battle Star, five Overseas Service Bars, one Service Stripe and the Good Conduct Medal. On June 18, 1949, he was united in marriage to Elma Franzen at Crown Point, Ind. Clarence worked for the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad from 1937 until he retired in 1982. In 1986 they moved to Charles City. He was a member of Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church at Bensenville, Ill., a long time member of the V.F.W., and the Moose Lodge in Bensenville, Ill. Clarence enjoyed hunting, fishing, and working in his garden.

Living family members include his loving wife, Elma of Charles City; two sisters, Helen Lewis of Mountain Home, Ark., and Betty Niccolai of Carol Stream, Ill.; many nephews and nieces including Robert Franzen and wife Terri of Charles City; great nephews and nieces; and great-great nephews and nieces.

His parents, two brothers and four sisters preceded him in death.

The family suggests memorials be directed to Hospice of North Iowa Charles City site.

Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.


Emil Flugum

NASHUA - Emil K. Flugum, 79, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2002, at the New Hampton Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in New Hampton, Iowa, of natural causes.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, Oct. 12, at 10:30 a.m. at the Chenoweth & Son Funeral Home in Nashua. There will be no visitation or burial, as the body was cremated


Esther Hartogh

ELMA - Esther Marie Hartogh, 93, of Elma, died Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2002, at Colonial Manor in Elma of natural causes.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2002, at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Reverend John Hemann officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Riceville.


Mildred Carder

CEDAR RAPIDS - Mildred Carder, 90, of Cedar Rapids, died Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2002, in Heritage Nursing and Rehab Center, Cedar Rapids. Arrangements are pending at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Cedar Rapids.


Mary Lynn Stewart

Mary Lynn (Hyers) Stewart died Oct. 7, 2002, at Loyola Hospital in Maywood, Ill. Funeral services for Mary Lynn (Hyers) Stewart will be at 2 p.m. today, Friday, Oct. 11, 2002, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene with Pastor Phillip Carroll officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene.


 Muriel Schwartz

MARBLE ROCK - Funeral services for Muriel Schwartz, 91, formerly of Marble Rock will be 10:30 a.m. today, Friday, Oct. 11, 2002, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Marble Rock with Pastor Kenneth Kent of the United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Hillside Cemetery in Marble Rock.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services.

Muriel McFadden was born Aug. 4, 1911, at Duluth, St. Louis County, Minn. a daughter of Charles William and Leola Sara (Peterson) McFadden, and died Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2002, at the l.O.O.F. Home in Mason City.

At the Age of five her family moved to Winthrop, lowa where they lived at her grandparents in a tent in the back yard until they found a place to live. They moved to Waterloo where she attended public schools there and graduated from East High School in 1930. As a young lady she worked in Waterloo as a seamstress for New York Fashions.

She was united in marriage to Rudolph Schwartz on February 1, 1941, in Marshalltown. They moved to Marble Rock where they made their home until she entered the nursing home in 1994. Rudolph died in 1992.

For many years, Muriel was engaged in making ceramics, doing business as L & M Ceramics, along with her partner Leora Kepple. Muriel was a member of the Marble Rock United Methodist Church, 50 year member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Bridge Club.

Living family members include her son and daughter-in-law: Donald and Marcia Schwartz of Mason City; two grandchildren: Lisa Schwartz of Mason City and Sara and her friend David Myers Sr. of Des Moines; five grandchildren: Cody and Leslie Perry, Brittney, Douglas, and David Jr. Myers.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, one brother George McFadden, and one sister: Leola Hedrick.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family.


Catherine T. Wood

MARBLE ROCK - Funeral services for Catherine T. Wood, 87, of 408

East Pine Street, Riceville, formerly of Marble Rock, will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, 2002, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Marble Rock with Pastor Patricia Shaw officiating. Following the funeral dinner, burial will be in the Lynwood Cemetery in Clarksville.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. today, Friday, Oct. 11, 2002, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Marble Rock where there will be a scripture service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church one hour before services.

Catherine Theda Reints was born July 24, 1915, North of Clarksville, Butler County, a daughter of William John and Dena (Reints) Reints, and died Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2002, at the Riceville Community Rest Home.

She received her education in the rural schools and attended the Clarksville High School. She was united in marriage to Donald Asa Wood on Oct. 6, 1939, at St. John's Parsonage in Clarksville. They made their home in Marble Rock where Don operated the school bus. When he entered the armed forces in 1944, Catherine took over the bus route making her one of the first woman bus drivers in the state. She drove school bus for 37 years with a perfect driving record. Catherine was a strict disciplinarian who expected order and good behavior on her bus.

Her interests included gardening, camping, and making quilts for her grandchildren and other family members. She was a charter member of St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Marble Rock in 1945, Sunday School Teacher, and member of the Ladies Aide.

Living family members include two daughters: Beverly Slinger of Mason City, Judy and her husband Curtis Wallace of Riceville; three grandchildren: Rhonda (Jon) Sult of Marble Rock, Angie (Andy) Smith of Rose Creek, Minn., Dawn Wallace of Faribault, Minn., three great grandchildren: Dustin Sult, Dena Sult, and Asa Smith; one sister: Geraldine Bruggeman of Marble Rock; one brother: Sievert Reints of Clarksville; three nephews: Doug (Cindy) Bruggeman of Rochester, Minn., Bill Reints, of Oelwein, Tom (Jan) Reints of Webster City, one niece: Deb ((Terry) Hammer of Swisher; two sisters-in-law: Marion Wood of Marble Rock, Erma Wood of Grand Meadow, MN, two brothers-in-law: Max Wood of Waverly and Wes Chambers of Charles City.

She was preceded in death by her husband, grandson: David Slinger in 1982, Son-in-law Dale Slinger, her parents, and one sister: Elsa Swan.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Catherine Wood Memorial Fund in care of the family.


                     Posted by Gene Manning on 19/11/02


Orpha M. Obermeier

Orpha M. Obermeier, 83, of 509 First Ave., Charles City, died Thursday,

Oct. 10, 2002, at Ninth Street Chautauqua Guest Home, Charles City.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 14, 2002, at the First Congregational Church, 502 N. Jackson St., Charles City with Rev. Greg Lugn officiating. Interment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, Charles City.

Visitation was from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, 2002, at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St., Charles City. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Orpha M. Obermeier Memorial Fund.

Orpha was born Jan. 11, 1919, the daughter of John and Marie (Lomica) Zidlicky in Saratoga. She attended school in rural Howard County. After continuing her education Orpha returned to teach school in rural Howard Co. for a year before getting married.

On Feb. 4, 1944, Orpha was united in marriage to Milton Obermeier in Lime Springs. Following their marriage Orpha became a homemaker staying home to raise their children.

Orpha loved to help Milton in the garden, and can the benefits they reaped. Orpha enjoyed cooking, going on picnics with her family, checking out the local rummage sales, and making the annual fishing trip to Minnesota in the fall. Over the years Orpha had been active in the church. She always looked forward to spending time with her grandchildren. Orpha was a member of the First Congregational Church, Charles City.

Those thankful for having shared in Orpha's life include her husband, Milton, two sons; John Obermeier of Albany, Ga., William Obermeier and his wife Kathy of Polk City; one brother, Arthur Zidlicky and his wife Gay of Spillville; four grandchildren, Michael Obermeier, Amy Kay, Jeri Ouzts, and Bobby Obermeier; and three great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Obermeier was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, John and Paul Zidlicky.

Fullerton Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.


Makinzey Nierling

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City for Makinzey Nierling, 8, a resident of 206 5th Avenue, Charles City, who died Tuesday, October 14, at her home.


Thomas Clammer

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City for Thomas Clammer, 79, a resident of 110 Park Avenue, Charles City who died Tuesday, October 14, at the 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.


                          Posted by Gene Manning on 10/16/02


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Kathryn Gunn 

Kathryn Gunn, 86, a former resident of 413 16th Avenue, Charles City,

died Thursday, Oct. 17, 2002, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

Memorial Services for Kathryn Gunn will be held at a later date.

The Hauser Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.


Sherry G. Burzette

PELLA - Sherry Gaye Burzette, 50, passed away peacefully on Oct. 16, 2002, at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella from the results of breast cancer. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2002, at the Chapel of Van Dyke Duven Funeral Home in Pella. The Rev. Peter Kelder will officiate. Interment will be in Silent City Cemetery in Monroe. Special music will be "Wind Beneath My Wings" performed by Bette Midler. Casket bearers are Chad Brandt, Kelly Burzette, Greg Burzette, Brian Adams, Gary Riden, Jim Tangeman, and Brett Tangeman.

The visitation will begin Saturday at noon and will continue until service time at the Van Dyke Duven Funeral Home in Pella.

Sherry was born a set of twins on Feb. 25, 1952, in Mason City, to Melvin and Lois (Mathers) Burzette. She was a 1970 graduate of Charles City Community High School in Charles City.

Sherry was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 1996. She was determined to fight it and she did. She was cancer free until April 2002 when she was diagnosed with cancer in the lining of her heart. Once again she was going to fight it. She courageously started chemotherapy treatments again.

Sherry was a very spiritual person and believed in God and that God would take care of her. She left this physical world in peace.

In May 2002 her daughter, Brandi graduated from Charles City Community High School. Also in May, Sherry and Brandi moved to Monroe, to be closer to her son Chad and his family in Pella. Until April 2002, Sherry was manager of a convenience store in Charles City.

Left to cherish her memories until we meet again are: son, Chad (Holly) Brandt and grandchildren Sage, Shaffer and Tatum; daughter, Brandi of Pella; twin sister, Sheila (Gary) Riden of Charles City; sister, Jan (Brian) Adams of Osage; brother, Don (Connie) Burzette of Stewartville, Minn.; aunt, Beverly O'Connell of New Brunsfels, Texas; sister-in-law Ramona Burzette of Indianola; best friend, Connie (Jim) Tangeman of Monroe; numerous nieces and nephews.

The ones to meet her in heaven are: her mother, Lois Burzette; her brothers Robert, William, Greg and Fredrick; her sisters, Sandra and Susan.

For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the American Cancer Society or the Susan G. Coleman Foundation for Breast Cancer Research and Hospice of Pella.


Fern Jacobs

Fern Louise Jacobs, 75, of 1211 D. St., Charles City, died Thursday, Oct. 17, 2002, at the 11th Street Chautauqua in Charles City of natural causes. There will be no funeral services or visitation per Fern's request. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memorial Gardens.

Fern Louis Jacobs was born on March 7, 1927, in Crystal Lake, Ill., the daughter of Fred and Dorothy 'Wendt' Kapping. She married Joseph E. Jacobs on Nov. 26, 1949, in Austin, Minn. and was a housewife.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph; three sons, Dale Kapping of Rockford, Mike (Jan Wilson) Jacobs of Charles City, and John Jacobs of Cedar Rapids; three daughters, Arlene (Harry) Hayner of Klemme, Ruth (Gene) Diercks of Charles City and Penny (Mark) Adams of Charles City; four foster children; seven grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, LeRoy, Delbert, and Fred Kapping; and her sister, Ruth Kapping.

Sunnyside Chapel Funeral Home in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.


                          Posted by Gene Manning on 10/18/02


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Donal J. Theilen 

SEYMOUR, IND. -- Donal J. Theilen, 36, passed away Friday morning, Oct. 18, 2002, in Seymour, Ind. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City. Burial will be in St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery at New Haven. Visitation will be Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Chenoweth and Son Funeral Home in Nashua and from 1 p.m. to service time at the church. Chenoweth and Son Funeral Home of Nashua is in charge of arrangements.


Myrtle B. Zipse

NEW HAMPTON - Mertle B. Zipse, 95, of New Hampton, died Friday, Oct. 11, 2002 at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton of natural causes.

Funeral services were held Monday, Oct. 14, at the First Baptist Church in New Hampton with Reverend Fred Austin officiating. Charlotte Markle was the organist and accompanied mourners in singing "Amazing Grace" and "Let There Be Peace On Earth." Virgil and Sandy Truman sang "In The Garden."

Burial was at the New Hampton Cemetery with Bruce Boerschel, Bryan Boerschel, Mark Zipse, Michael Zipse, Maurice Zipse, Dana Green and Tom Ballard serving as casket bearers.

Myrtle Bernice Zipse was born January 14, 1907 in Elma, the daughter of John and Tina (Stansbery) Slick. She attended rural school near her family's home. Following her schooling she worked with her family on the farm and also worked for neighboring families. On Sept. 19, 1927 she was united in marriage to Myron Zipse at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Following their marriage, the couple resided on a farm near Lawler for seven years until 1934 when they moved to New Hampton.

The couple moved to Charles City in 1951 and remained there until Myron's retirement in 1965, at which time the family moved back to New Hampton.

Myrtle worked various jobs through the years and spent most of her time as a homemaker. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in New Hampton where she was a Sunday School Superintendent, Deaconess, and with her husband, served as caretaker for the church from 1965 until his death in 1980. Myrtle was also a member of the Amona and Mission Circle at the church as well as a member of the Central Star Ladies Club in Charles City.

Myrtle is survived by a son, Harry and his wife Vivian, of New Hampton; two daughters, Dolores Boerschel-Markle and her husband David of Charles City, and Ardella Morrison and her friend, John Smith, of Spring Hill, Fla.; a sister, Virginia Blietz-Kotz and her husband Wilbur of New Hampton; eight grand children, Bruce Boerschel of Charles City, Bryan Boerschel of Peach Tree, Ga., Mark Zipse of Clear Lake, Michael Zipse of Fort Wayne, Ind., Maurice Zipse of Rochester, Minn., Gayla Wilkinson of Oceanview, Del., Dana Green of Fort Worth, Texas, and Deanna Ballard of Des Moines; 12 great-grandchildren and a sister-in-law, Marian Slick of New Hampton.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Myron (1980); a grandson, Greg Green; four brothers, Lyle Slick, Ronald Slick and two in infancy; a sister, Evelyn Rodberg; two sons-in-law Ervin Boerschel and Howard Morrison.


                    Posted by Gene Manning on 10/21/02


Dorothy B. Wolfgang

APPLE VALLEY, Minn. -- Dorothy B. Wolfgang, 89, died Saturday, Oct. 19, 2002, at the Apple Valley Healthcare Center. Visitation will be at 5:30 p.m. with a memorial services held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2002, at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 7110 France Avenue South, Edina, Minn.

Dorothy lived in Charles City from 1966 to 1978 while her husband worked at Salsbury Lab.

Living family members include a daughter, Mary Lou Risley; a son, J. Robert (Diane); grandchildren Michael Wolfgang and Katie Wolfgang (Carman Lawrick); great-grandchildren Ashley Wolfgang and C.C. Lawrick.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Paul.

Memorials preferred to Alzeheimer's Association.


                           Posted by Gene Manning on 10/22/02


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Ivan Smith

 ST. CLOUD, Minn. - Ivan D. Smith, age 73, of St. Cloud, Minnesota, formerly of Charles City, and Hutchinson, Minn., passed away on Friday, Oct. 18, 2002, at Lake Ridge Health Care Center in Roseville, Minn.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2002, at 11:00 a.m., at Vineyard United Methodist Church in Hutchinson. Interment will take place at a later date.

Dobratz-Hantge Funeral Chapel in Hutchinson, Minn. is in charge of arrangements.


Florence Keifer

Florence Marie Keifer, 86, a former resident of Cedar Terrace South, Charles City, left this world and entered God's Kingdom of Heaven on Tuesday, October 22, 2002, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

Funeral services for Florence Keifer will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Grace United Methodist Church in Floyd. The Rev. Solomon Odoom, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery at Floyd.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, and an hour prior to the services at the church on Thursday.

Florence Marie Schmidt Keifer was born June 9, 1916 in Charles City, the daughter of Henry and Georgia Haskins Schmidt. She attended country school, completing the 8th grade. Florence started a courtship with Dale Keifer, after he found her behind hay bales during a game of hide-and-go-seek. They married on April 27, 1937. In her younger days she was involved in Boy Scouts, Bible School and was an avid supporter of Good Will Industries. She was a life time member of Grace United Methodist Church at Floyd. She farmed with Dale, and was known for her homemade bread, pies and wacky cake. Florence also worked at Chautauqua Guest Homes and then at the Charles City school systems in the hot lunch program serving many lunches at Floyd and Charles City Schools. Socially, Florence and Dale loved to play cards, dance at the Moose Lodge, and travel the state of Iowa visiting friends and family.

A life long resident of Floyd and Charles City, Florence will never be forgotten by those who knew and loved her for her unending generosity, her love of nature and the love and attention she gave her children and grandchildren. She will especially be remembered for the smile she seemed to show constantly.

Left to cherish her memories are her children; Curtis and Elaine Keifer, and Patty and Tom Palmersheim of Charles City; grandchildren, Curtis A. Keifer, Lori and David Gordon, Debbie and Richard Johnson, Kathy and Brent Hobert, Gail and Kevin Zwanziger, Brenda Huxsol Howe, and Nikki and Steve Staudt; eighteen great grandchildren; a great great granddaughter; and many nieces and nephews who lovingly called her "Aunt Tootsie".

Greeting her arrival in Heaven are her husband, Dale, parents, Henry and Georgia, step father, George Sleezer, grandsons, Jim Huxsol, Jr., Dave Fisher, and brothers, Harold, Leonard and Leslie Schmidt.


Lyle and Maxine Stalker

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City for Lyle and Maxine Stalker of 3361 Highway 18, Charles City, who died Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at the Waverly Municipal Hospital as the result of an automobile accident.


Orville Herman

Orville Herman, 75, of 1876 Rotary Park Road, Charles City, died Tuesday October 22, 2002 at his residence.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St., Charles City.


Reka Matthews

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City for Reka Matthews, 95, a resident of 3112 Boulder Drive, Cedar Falls, who died Tuesday, October 22


                    Posted by Gene Manning on 10/23/02


Lyle Stalker

Lyle Stalker, 82, a resident of 3361 Highway 18, Charles City, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2002, near Waverly as the result of an automobile accident.

Funeral services for Lyle Stalker will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, 2002, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Rev. Greg Lugn, pastor of the First Congregational Church and Msgr. Stanley Hayek, pastor of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, will officiate. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Charles City. The Charles City Ceremonial Unit will conduct military honors.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, 2002, where there will be a Scriptural Wake Service at 7 p.m. followed by a Veterans Memorial Service conducted by the American Legion. Visitation will continue an hour prior to the service at the church.

Lyle Ewing Stalker was born May 1, 1920, at Rudd, the son of Beryl and Grace (Wegner) Stalker. He graduated in 1938 from Rudd High School. Lyle served in the United States Army during World War II. On Dec. 23, 1943, he was united in marriage to Maxine Goebel. They farmed in the Charles City area and Lyle also worked for several years at White Farm Equipment Company. He was a member of the American Legion, V.F.W., and was a past member of the Moose Lodge and the U.A.W. Lyle was a staunch Republican. He enjoyed fishing, camping, playing and watching sports, and had been an all-state baseball catcher. The most important part of his life was the time he and Maxine spent with their family.

Living family members include two daughters and their husbands, Phyllis and Dr. Clarkson Kelly, and Elizabeth "Liz" and Richard Dawson both of Charles City; a son, Rodney Stalker of Los Angeles, Calif.; seven grandchildren, James Friedrich, Kelly Linderman, Regina Bonnette, Thomas Kelly, Chad Dawson, Rodney Stalker II, and Krista Wright; five great-grandchildren; four step grandchildren, Clark Kelly III, Becki Lower, Elizabeth Kelly, and Christopher Kelly; five step great-grandchildren; two brothers and their wives, Ed and Donna Stalker of Minneapolis, Minn., and Charles and Veronica Stalker of Des Moines; three sisters, Audrey Gorzynski and husband Henry of Ramona, Calif., Norma Krause of Rudd, and Donna Grasso and husband Dominic of Shawnee Mission, Kan.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Rodney Stalker, a grandson Daniel Stalker, and a step granddaughter, Janice Kelly.


Maxine Stalker

Maxine Stalker, 77, a resident of 3361 Highway 18, Charles City, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2002, near Waverly as the result of an automobile accident.

A funeral Mass for Maxine Stalker will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, 2002, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Monsignor Stanley Hayek, pastor, and Rev. Greg Lugn, pastor of the First Congregational Church will officiate. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, 2002, where the St. Francis Circle will recite the Rosary at 4:30 p.m. and where there will be a Scriptural Wake Service at 7 p.m.

Maxine (Goebel) Stalker was born Oct. 24, 1924, at New Hampton, the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Pickar) Goebel. She graduated from Floyd High School in 1942. On December 23, 1943, she was united in marriage to Lyle Stalker. They farmed all of their lives near Charles City. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, St. Francis Circle, and was a past member of the Moose Lodge. Maxine thoroughly enjoyed and was an active part of the farm, and also enjoyed camping, fishing, shopping, and gardening. The most important part of her life was the time she and Lyle spent with their family.

Living family members include two daughters and their husbands, Phyllis and Dr. Clarkson Kelly, and Elizabeth "Liz" and Richard Dawson both of Charles City; a son, Rodney Stalker of Los Angeles, Calif.; seven grandchildren, James Friedrich, Kelly Linderman, Regina Bonnette, Thomas Kelly, Chad Dawson, Rodney Stalker II, and Krista Wright; five great-grandchildren; four step grandchildren, Clark Kelly III, Becki Lower, Elizabeth Kelly, and Christopher Kelly; five step great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Daniel Stalker; a step granddaughter, Janice Kelly; and five brothers, Art, Cletus, Peter, Francis, and Clare Goebel; two sisters, Margaret Ashley Beard, and Eleanor Goebel in infancy.


Orvall Herman

Orvall J. Herman, 75, of 1875 Rotary Park Road, Charles City, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2002, at his residence.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, 2002, at the Faith Bible Chapel, 1701 Ohio St., Charles City with Rev. A.C. Wegner officiating. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. today, Thursday, Oct. 24, 2002, at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St., Charles City. Visitation will continue one hour prior to service time at the church on Friday. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Orvall J. Herman Memorial Fund.

Fullerton Hage Funeral Home in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.


Reka Matthews

CEDAR FALLS - Reka Matthews, 95, a resident of 3112 Boulder Drive, Cedar Falls, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2002, at the Windsor Nursing & Rehab Center in Cedar Falls.

Funeral services for Reka Matthews will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 25, 2002, at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City. Evangelist Eric McCullough of the Cedar Falls Gospel Hall will officate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens rural Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 4 to 8 p.m. today, Thursday, Oct. 24, 2002, and from 9 a.m. until service time on Friday.

Reka Marie (Luecht) Matthews was born March 17, 1907, at Westgate, the daughter of Reent and Maria (Nannen) Luecht. She received her education at Rockford. On Feb. 16, 1926, she was united in marriage to Roy Matthews at Charles City. They farmed in the Mitchell and Howard County area. In 1933 she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal saviour. Reka worked at the Welcome Haven, 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home, and also did private nursing. She was a member of the Cedar Falls Gospel Hall. Reka enjoyed sewing, crocheting, gardening, and traveling.

Living family members include three sons and their wives, Marvin and Gwen Matthews of Charles City, Eugene and Helen Matthews of Janesville, and Roy Jr. and Janice Matthews of Evansdale; three daughters and their husbands, Dolores and Fred Winning of Parkersburg, Carol and Harley Lines of Marble Rock, and Linda and Dave Platz of Orchard; fifteen grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Helen Fisher of Mason City; Betty Cummings of Waterloo, and Grace Peterson of Rockford, Ill.; and a brother Ralph Luecht of Mason City.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 1963, a daughter, Ruth Deets, five grandsons, four brothers, Dick, Jack, Gerhardt, and Zeke Luecht, two sisters, Johanna Gentz, and Marie Luecht.

Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.


                         Posted by Gene Manning on 10/24/02


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Orvall J. Herman 

Orvall J. Herman, 75, of 1875 Rotary Park Road, Charles City, died

Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2002, peacefully at home surrounded by family.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday Oct. 25, 2002 at the Faith Bible Chapel, 1701 Ohio St., Charles City with Rev. A.C. Wegner officiating. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday Oct. 24, 2002 at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St., Charles City. Visitation will continue one hour prior to service time at the church on Friday. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Orvall J. Herman Memorial Fund.

Orvall was born April 24, 1927, in Charles City, the son of Jiles and Mildred (Wilson) Herman. Orvall was united in marriage to Betty Stillion on Dec. 20, 1947 in Austin, MN. To this union they had thirteen wonderful children. Orvall attended the Faith Bible Chapel. Orvall owned Herman's Auto Salvage where he worked his entire life.

Orvall enjoyed the outdoors, and loved spending quality time with his wife, and children. Orvall also enjoyed riding his tractor. Orvall was one who enjoyed life to the fullest. Orvall will be missed dearly by family and friends.

Orvall is survived by his loving wife, Betty; eleven children, George and his wife, Darlene, of Nora Springs, Gloria Foster, of Floyd, Vila Long and her husband, Amos, of Crocker, MO., Katie and her fiancŽ, Dave Bower, of Clear Lake, Carolyn Lantz and her husband, Francis, of Charles City, Orvall and his wife, Cheryl, of Charles City, Bob and his girlfriend, Anette, of New Hampton, Cindy Marvin and her husband, Francis, of Britt, Brian and his wife, Ronda, of Charles City, Sue and her fiancŽ, David Houdek, of Charles City, John and his wife, Kari, of Charles City; one brother, Willie, of Charles City; thirty-nine grandchildren; thirty-eight great-grandchildren.

Orvall was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Allen; one sister, Bessie; one son Kenneth; one daughter, Bonnie.


Edna Ginther

Edna L. Ginther, 83 of 1400 Tarpon Center Dr., Venice, Florida, and formerly of Rockford, Iowa, died Thursday, October 10, 2002 at the Hospice House in Venice, FL.

Graveside inurnment services will be held at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at Riverside Cemetery, in Rockford, Iowa. Officiating will be the Rev. Kenneth Kent of the First United Methodist Church in Rockford. There will be no visitation.


                       Posted by Gene Manning on 10/26/02


Edna Ginther

Edna L. Ginther 83, formerly of Rockford, now of 1400 Tarpon Center Dr., Venice, FL, died Thursday October 10, 2002, at the Hospice House in Venice.

Graveside inurnment services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2002, at Riverside Cemetery, Rockford. Officiating will be the Rev. Kenneth Kent of the First United Methodist Church, Rockford. There will be no visitation.

Edna was born one of five children to John William Richardson Sr. and Blanche Dallas Richardson on July 6, 1919 in Indianapolis, Indiana. She graduated from Center Grove High School in Greenwood, Indiana and then graduated from Indiana Central Business College in Indianapolis with a Legal Secretary degree. She was employed at and insurance company for a short time and then was a secretary for several different attorneys. After moving to Algona in 1946 and then to Rockford about 1950 she met her future husband Hoyle H. Ginther and they were united in marriage on January 17, 1959 at Sioux Falls, SD. They remained residents of the Rockford area where Edna assisted her husband on the family farm as well as cooking for the farm hands. Edna was very active with her church and the UMW of the First United Methodist Church. She was also an avid golfer winning many tournaments at the Rockford Country Club and other area courses. During the winter months she enjoyed playing Bridge. She moved to Florida in 1999.

Those thankful in sharing Edna's life include her step-daughter Marilynne Gossett, Grand Junction, CO; her step-son Gary Ginther, Rockford, one sister Helen and her husband Oren Sutton, Greenwood, Indiana, and one brother Kenneth and his wife Freda Richardson, Peachtree City, GA several step-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband Hoyle on September 12, 1985 one sister Rosemary Cook and one brother John W. Richardson Jr.

Fullerton Funeral Home 641-423-8676 www.fullertonfh.com


                           Posted by Gene Manning on 10/28/02


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Erwin Schuster 

MAPLE GROVE, Minn. - Erwin A. Schuster, 81, of Maple Grove, Minn., died at his residence on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2002. Funeral services will be held at Gearty Delmore Funeral Chapel, 3888 W. Broadway, Robbinsdale, Minn., today, Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2002, at 7 p.m. Visitation will be today after 5 p.m. Interment will be at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens in Crystal, Minn.

Erwin was born May 24, 1921, in Charles City to Paul and Jennie Webster Schuster. He graduated from Charles City High School and served in the US Army in WWII. He married Doris Christensen of Charles City and they moved to Minneapolis, Minn., after the war. He was a bindery supervisor in the publishing field.

He is survived by: his sons Ron (Kathy) and Larry(Mary) Schuster, all of Maple Grove; 5 grandchildren; and 4 great grandchildren; and his sister-in-law, Harriet Fultcher, of Maple Grove, Minn.

He was preceded in death by wife Doris; sister, Marion Auringer; and brother Melvin Schuster.

Memorials are preferred to the Hennepin County Animal Humane Society, Minneapolis, Minn.

Gearty Delmore Funeral Chapel (763-537-4511) in Robbinsdale, Minn., is in charge of arrangements.


                                        Posted by Gene Manning on 10/29/02