Harm Eggena Jr.

Published: Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Harm Eggena Jr., 82, of 1455 190th St., Rockford, died Sunday, Aug. 31, 2008 at his home in Rockford.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Fullerton Funeral Home 302 West Main, Rockford.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 302 West Main, Rockford. (641) 756-3311, www.Fullertonfh.com

Betty L. Blickenderfer

Betty L. Blickenderfer, 81, of Charles City, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008, at the Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

Funeral services for Betty Blickenderfer will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City. Pastor Debi Lincoln of the Jordan River Church and United Church of Christ, Colwell will officiate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, rural Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday. Visitation will continue an hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Wednesday.

Betty Lorraine Markle Blickenderfer was born Dec. 12, 1926, at Spring Valley, Minn., the daughter of Lloyd and Floy (Malcobson) Markle. She graduated from high school in Santa Barbara, Calif., attended LaJames Beauty College and Beautician College in Mason City. On Nov. 25, 1945, she was united in marriage to Homer Blickenderfer at Austin, Minn. Betty owned and operated the Golden Touch while helping with the family trucking company. She was a member of the Moose Lodge for over 50 years, V.F.W. Auxiliary, Soroptimist and the Floyd County Cancer Society. Her interests included traveling, camping, dancing and flying their own airplane around the country.

Living family members include her husband, Homer Blickenderfer of Charles City; three children, Larry (Jane) Blickenderfer of Shell Rock, Lorraine Lewis of Charles City and Louis (Ann) Blickenderfer of Charles City; eight grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; three step-great grandchildren; sister, Verna Sterling of Albia; and brother, Rolland (Margarite) Markle of Newton.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa, 1003 Gilbert St. Charles City, IA 50616.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Eldon Earl Bass Sr.

Published: Tuesday, September 2, 2008

ROCKFORD — Eldon Earl Bass Sr. 83, of 1971 Ivory Ave, died Friday, Aug. 29, 2008, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. today, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2008, at the Sheckler Colonial Chapel, 114 North Hawkeye, Nora Springs, with Rev. Martin Miller and Rev. Gordon Berryman officiating. Burial will be in the Rudd Evergreen Cemetery, Rudd.

The family greeted visitors Monday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and will continue to do so today, Tuesday, one hour prior to the service at Sheckler Colonial Chapel, 114 North Hawkeye in Nora Springs.

Memorials may be directed to the Eldon Earl Bass Memorial Fund, in care of Freda Bass 1971 Ivory Ave, Rockford, IA 50468.

Eldon Earl Bass was born April 11, 1925, in rural Floyd County, the son of Ernest and Emma (Tibbits) Bass. He graduated from Rudd High School in 1943. Eldon served the United States Navy during WWII serving in the South Pacific.

From the union of Eldon’s first marriage two children were born. On Dec. 23, 1950, he was united in marriage to the love of his life Freda Usher; to this union five children were born. Eldon was a farmer and electrician for over 50 years. He was a pioneer of CB radios selling and servicing them. He served his county loyally for many years as a Floyd County Sheriff Reservist and Rockford Police Reservist. He was a member of the Rudd Wesleyan Church, Rudd.

Eldon enjoyed big family dinners especially if there was pie that Freda made! He loved spending time with family especially his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Eldon and Freda enjoyed camping trips with their family and friends. In 2001, Eldon and Freda started spending their winters in southern Alabama. He enjoyed rummage sales, flea markets and working on cars with his son-in-law Wayne King. He taught his children the meaning of hard work from his strong work ethics that will be greatly missed.

Eldon is survived by his wife of 57 years Freda Bass, Rockford, children, Carol (Steve) Jameson, Springfield, Mo., Deborah (Wayne) King, Pensacola, Fla., Becky (Danny) Burnett, rural Floyd, Jeff (Cyndie) Bass, Minnesota Lake, Minn., Greg (Terry) Bass, Mason City, Ed (Libby) Bass, Fayetteville, Tenn., daughter-in-law Barb Bass, Mason City, step-son Erwin (Elaine) Usher, Prairie City; 16 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and numerous special friends.

Eldon is preceded in death by his parents, brother Darrell Bass, son Eldon Bass Jr., grandson Bill Bass and one infant granddaughter Kellie King.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Clark, the staff and nurses at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit and the staff at Mercy Medical Center North Iowa for the great care expressed to Eldon.

                        Posted on 09/02/2008 by Gene Manning

Alicia Burkle

Published: Wednesday, September 3, 2008

NASHUA — Alicia Burkle, 36, of North Liberty and formerly of Nashua, died Monday evening, Sept. 1, 2008, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City of squamous cell carcinoma.

A Celebration of Life service will be 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at St. John Lutheran Church in Nashua with Pastor Thomas Hagen officiating. Cremation will follow the services at Nashua.

A second celebration service will be held at the First Methodist Church in North Liberty on Thursday, Sept. 11, at 7 p.m.

Visitation will be Thursday from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua and one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. In Lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Alicia’s name.

The fund will be used to purchase an audio communicative device for special needs students at an elementary school. On-line condolences may be left for Alicia at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Mary Elaine Kellogg Grant

Published: Wednesday, September 3, 2008

A memorial Mass for Mary Elaine Kellogg Grant will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City with Father Carl Ries officiating.

Mary Elaine is the daughter of Donald and Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Kellogg of Charles City.

Robert A. ‘Bob’ Brown

Published: Wednesday, September 3, 2008

CEDAR RAPIDS — Robert A. ‘Bob’ Brown, 72, of Davenport, formerly of Cedar Rapids, died Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008, at Genesis Medical Center —West, Davenport, following a lengthy illness. His body was donated to the University of Iowa Department of Anatomy. Celebration of Life services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 12, at the First Presbyterian Church, Cedar Rapids.

Survivors include a son, Harold of Cedar Rapids; a daughter, Janis Shank of Queens Creek, Ariz.; and four sisters, Marlene Lee of Council Bluffs, Vicki Phelan of St. Louis, Mo., Cynthia Sorenson of Gloucester, Va., and Julie Driscoll of Evansdale.

Also surviving are daughter-in-law, Marty; son-in-law, Steve; six grandchildren, Travis (Nora) Shank, Jordan Shank, Janelle Shank and Connor Shank, all of Queens Creek, and Jon and Hannah Brown of Cedar Rapids; a great-grandchild, Kate Shank of Queens Creek; and brothers-in-law, Dean Lee, Tom Phelan and Guy Sorenson. Bob treasured the special relationship he had with his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Helen June Denning and Mavis Schroedermeier and husband Paul, all of Charles City.

Bob was born Dec. 14, 1935, to Harold and Helen (Rabe) Brown, in Charles City. He married Kathleen Bosma in 1957 in San Francisco, Calif.

Bob's vocation was broadcasting, but his passion was magic and illusion. Bob began a career in radio broadcasting at KCAK in Charles City and continued in Cedar Rapids with KCRG and KWWL, where he became news director. He worked with the city of Cedar Rapids as CETA director from 1973 to 1976. Bob starred as "Judge McCauley" on the popular locally-produced television program, "Tell it to the Judge."

Bob worked in Davenport for three years as part owner of a magic shop and then moved to Chicago and worked for Magic Inc. He also did volunteer work for Precious Blood Homeless Shelter for nine years.

Bob was an accomplished entertainer who thrilled many audiences with his magic, hypnotism and mentalist shows. He shared his love of magic by teaching and lecturing, and many former students are now full-time magicians.

Bob will be remembered for the love he shared with family and friends and for the compassion he had for people. He was an amazing man whose talent was only outdistanced by his kindness. Bob will be greatly missed.

                       Posted on 09/03/2008 by Gene Manning

Verna Marlow

Published: Thursday, September 4, 2008

LACROSSE, WIS. — Verna Marlow, 90, of LaCrosse, Wis., passed away Monday, Sept. 1, 2008. Verna’s husband, Lloyd, was the manager of Charles City’s Woolworth store. They left Charles City in 1961. Verna was preceded in death by her husband.

She is survived by her son and daughter, Ron Marlow and Rosemary Hewitt.

Jeanne A. Kicherer

Published: Thursday, September 4, 2008

Jeanne A. Kicherer, 93, of 1108 Hildreth St., Charles City, died Wednesday morning, Sept. 3, 2008, at 9th St. Chautauqua Home in Charles City.

Memorial services will be held at 2:30 on Friday, Sept. 5, at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt. Charles City. Officiating will be the Rev. Dennis Niezwaag of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Riverside Cemetery, Charles City. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. John Lutheran Church. Memories, stories and condolences may be shared with the family on the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt St., Charles City, (641) 228-4211, www.fullertonfh.com is in charge of the arrangements.

Alicia J. Burkle

Published: Thursday, September 4, 2008

NASHUA — Alicia J. Burkle, 36, of North Liberty formerly of Nashua died Monday evening, Sept. 1, 2008, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City of squamous cell carcinoma.

A Celebration of Life service will be 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at St. John Lutheran Church in Nashua with Pastor Thomas Hagen officiating. Cremation will follow the services at Nashua.

A second celebration service will be held at the First Methodist Church in North Liberty on Thursday, Sept. 11, at 7 p.m.

Visitation will be Thursday from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua and one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. In Lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Alicia’s name. The fund will be used to purchase an audio communicative device for special needs students at an elementary school. On-line condolences may be left for Alicia at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Alicia Jody Burkle was born July 4, 1972 at Charles City, the youngest child of Stanley and Gloria (Prull) Burkle. She attended school in Nashua and graduated from Nashua High School in 1990. She continued her education at the University of Iowa graduating in 1995 with a degree in education.

Alicia loved teaching elementary students. She dearly loved her experiences at the Wickham Elementary School in Coralville and Weber Elementary School in Iowa City. She was a super fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs.

Alicia is survived by her parents; brother, Kevin and his wife Amy, of Crystal lake, Ill.,; sister, Kimbra Symth and her husband, Kevin of Urbandale; and brother Todd and his wife, Patty, of Monona; as well as seven nieces and nephews.

                      Posted on 09/04/2008 by Gene Manning

Jeanne A. Kicherer

Published: Friday, September 5, 2008

Jeanne A. Kicherer, 93, of 1108 Hildreth St., Charles City, Iowa, died Wednesday morning, Sept. 3, 2008, at 9th St. Chautauqua Home in Charles City.

Memorial services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt in Charles City. Officiating will be the Rev. Dennis Niezwaag of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Riverside Cemetery, Charles City. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. John Lutheran Church. Memories, stories and condolences may be shared with the family on the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com

Jeanne was born on March 13, 1915, in Long Lake, Minn., the daughter of Clarence Daniel and Gladys “Crane” Follansbee and she became one of four daughters. After moving several times she graduated from Floyd Consolidated High School with the class of 1933. In the early 1930s, her future husband Franklin D. Kicherer attended a band concert in Floyd where he met Jeanne who was a drummer. Over the next several years, loved blossomed and they were united in marriage on June 23, 1937, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church where she had previously been baptized and confirmed. She was an excellent seamstress and worked for Bea’s shop for several years and then ventured into a partnership and started Park Fashion in 1959 and then retired in 1962. Jeanne then worked part time for Roberts. Her skill with needle and thread led her to restoring antique dolls and fashioning teddy bears from fur coats. Every summer for years the family would go to Round Lake near Brainerd, Minn. to be by the lake and try her hand at fishing. Her love of travel with her traveling companions Marge and Bob Rabe created a wealth of trips which spanned the globe, including Europe, New Zealand, Hawaii, the British Isles and London, to name a few.

Her husband Franklin of 71 years survives her along with their son David and his wife Rita of St. Ansgar; three grandchildren: Misti Peppler of Chicago, Michele Kicherer of Clear Lake and Daniel Kicherer, Taos, N.M.; six great-grandchildren; and one sister, Marilyn and her husband Len Butler, Tempe, Ariz.

Her parents and two sisters, Fern Elizabeth “Betty” and her husband Elston Castle, and Geraldine and her husband Bob Isham, preceded her in death.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt St., Charles City, (641) 228-4211, www.fullertonfh.com is in charge of the arrangements.

Virgel D. Winters

Published: Monday, September 8, 2008

MARBLE ROCK — Virgel D. Winters, 80, of 403 S. Main St. Marble Rock, died Friday, Sept. 5, 2008 at Mercy Medical Center, Mason City.

Funeral services are planned for 10:30 Tuesday Sept. 9, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church, Rockford. Officiating will be the Rev. Judy Wooton. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m., Monday at the Fullerton Schumburg Funeral Home, 302 West Main, Rockford. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Rockford. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Virgel Winters memorial fund. Thoughts, condolences and stories may be shared with the family on the funeral home Web site at www.Fullertonfh.com

Virgel Dean was one of five brothers born to Lawrence and Catherine “Steenblock” Winters on March 4, 1928 in Mason City. He attended school in Mason City. During his youth he was the number one paperboy selling papers in Central Park. He would take his money so he could attend the matinee at the theatre and would spend his nickel on popcorn and then have to walk home. But boy did he love the movies and he idolized Gene Autry even to today. He then worked for Ideal laundry and cleaners before he spent 31 years as a Sweeper Operator and other jobs at Lehigh Portland Cement Company. He retired in 1984. In the evenings after work he would work on stock cars. He could fix just about anything mechanical. He had the adage of doing it right the first time. He collected his “Junk Gold Mine” of antique car parts, frying pans, and Danbury mint collectable cars along with a lot of other things. He had a big heart and would help anyone especially his kids, and his pride and joy were his grandchildren. Virgel would love to share his stories of the “Good Old Days” with everyone. Even in the last few years of his life he was very appreciative of all the help that he received from his children and spouses. For the past 57 years he has celebrated his life with his wife Bette “Davis” who he married on June 24, 1951 and raised their seven children.

Bette, his wife, survives him along with his two daughters Sandra “Sam” Field and Victoria and her husband Barry Rowe all of Marble Rock; five sons Mike, Mason City; Barry and his wife Jackie, Marble Rock; Willard “Will” and his wife Tina, Klemme; Tracy and his wife Heather, Rockford, and Jamie and his wife Misty, of Austinville; seventeen Grandchildren, Kelly, Jason, Alby, Jessica, Mindy, Gage, Wesley, Dalton, Nathan, Katie, Nicole, Dereck, Christopher, Coby, Cortney, Isabella, and Mary Ann; ten great grandchildren Kerri, Kole, Hayley, Levi, Hunter, Zach, Colton, Devon, Taylor and Jack; one brother Ted and his wife Sandy Winters, Marble Rock; and many many nieces and nephews, along with a host of friends.

His parents, three brothers, Richard, Jerry and Marvin and one grandson Douglas Wayne Best preceded him in death.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 302 West Main, Rockford, IA 50468 (641) 756-3311 www.Fullertonfh.com.

Marie L. Sinnwell

Published: Monday, September 8, 2008

NASHUA — Marie L. Sinnwell, 88, of Nashua died Friday evening, Sept. 5, 2008 at the Ninth Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Funeral Mass will be 11 a. m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Nashua with Rev. Carl Ries officiating. The organist will be Christy Laube and Jason Sinnwell will sing “Here I Am, Lord,” prayer of St. Francis” and “On Eagles Wings”. Marie’s children will place the pall on the casket.

Burial will be in St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery at Nashua with Jeff LaBarge, Nat Sinnwell, Pat Bouillon, Chad Sinnwell, Steve Groen, Nic Sinnwell and Micah Sinnwell serving as pallbearers.

Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Monday at the St. Michael‘s Parish Center, 101 Merrill St. in Nashua. There will be a scripture service at 7:45 p.m. Monday evening. Visitation will continue at the Center from 10 a.m. until service time on Tuesday. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left for Marie at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Marie Lucy was born June 5, 1920 in Bradford Township in Chickasaw County. She was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Ostermann) Hoffman. She attended Hogan country school through the eighth grade.

She was united in marriage to Cyril John Sinnwell on Sept. 14, 1939 in Independence. To this union nine children were born. They lived in Chickasaw County before moving to Nashua, she has lived there for more than 50 years. Marie worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital in New Hampton. She then started her 34 year career as a cook at the Dairy Bar later Nelson’s Nook and finally at Davey’s, people in Nashua still talk about Marie’s glazed doughnuts. She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, St. Francis Circle, Senior Citizens, M & M Club, Maple Grove Card Club. She enjoyed playing cards, crocheting, but she loved having family events and being close to her family.

Marie is survived by five sons, William (Marlys) Sinnwell of New Hampton, Michael (Sue) Sinnwell of Belmond, Daniel (Sue) Sinnwell of Waverly, David (Jari) Sinnwell of Mason City, and Kevin (Kori) Sinnwell of Nashua; four daughters, Cecelia (Galena) Pitkin of Clear Lake, Charlene (Greg) Longhorn of Fruita, Co, Marilyn (Jerry) Bouillon of Greene and Linda (Larry) Groen of Nashua; 24 grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild and one step great-great grandchild and two sisters-in-law.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Cyril on Sept. 4, 1977; three grandchildren, Tammy LaBarge Schmidtke, Sandy Groen and Dennis LaBarge; one great-grandchild, Shanna Bouillon; five brothers, Joseph, Jack, Henry, John, and August Hoffman; five sisters, Augusta Vohsman, Elizabeth Rosonke, Johanna Jacobs, Bernadine Apfelbeck and Gertrude Hoffman in infancy.

Robert O. Horn

Published: Monday, September 8, 2008

NASHUA — Robert O. Horn, 88, of Nashua died Wednesday evening, Sept. 3, 2008 at his rural Nashua home of an apparent heart attack.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008 at the little Brown Church rural Nashua with Pastor James Mann officiating. The organist will be Betty Orric and Janice Edson will be the vocalist singing “On Eagles Wings”

Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery rural Nashua with Ray Rosol, Don Stille, Dan Stille, Greg Kiehn, Larry Springer and Charles Jones serving as pallbearers.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Monday at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua and one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday. Memorials may be directed to the family. On-line condolences may be left for Bob at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Wilbur B. Royer

Published: Monday, September 8, 2008

DALLAS CENTER — Wilbur B. Royer died on Sept. 3, 2008, at the age of 91. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, Sept. 8, 2008 at the Minburn United Methodist Church in Minburn with burial to follow at Brethren Cemetery in Dallas Center.

Wilbur was born on March 20, 1917, in rural Dallas Center, the second child of William Henry Royer and Bertha Mary Wise Royer, and grew up on the family farm that would be his home and workplace for all of his life. He graduated from Dallas Center High School in 1934. He attended Iowa State University where he was a member of Adelante Fraternity. He graduated in 1939 with a B.S. degree in agronomy and a passion for farming. Over his more than 80 years in farming, he raised cattle, hogs, corn, soybeans, oats and hay.

On July 22, 1945, he married Eleanor Katherine Anderson, a fellow ISU grad and home economics teacher, and they began their life together on the Royer Century Farm. They had three children: Mary Katherine Royer (David Lloyd), an attorney in New Jersey with two sons, David Mark and James Wilbur; Paul Henry Royer, M.D. (Beth), a doctor in Charles City with four children, Eric, Sarah, Anna and Luke; and Earl Wilbur Royer (Esther), a farmer in Dallas Center who shares his father's passion for farming and continues his work, with two daughters, Susan and Brittany.

Wilbur was a member of the Minburn United Methodist Church and Dallas County Farm Bureau. He enjoyed watching college sports, especially football and basketball, golf, coin collecting, photography, raising farm cats and travel. He enjoyed talking "farming" with the local farmers as he and Eleanor crisscrossed the country by car visiting relatives. He participated in local corn yield contests, excelling and receiving the Iowa Master Corn Growers' Award from Pioneer Seeds for high yields in five different years.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, sisters-in-law, Mary Esther Anderson and Janice Miles, many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Eleanor, his wife of 62 years, predeceased him, passing away on Feb. 29, 2008. He was also predeceased by his parents; older brother, Kenneth; sister-in-law, Esther Royer and nephew, Lawrence Royer.

Visitation with the family present will be from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday at Iles Funeral Homes-Brandt Chapel in Dallas Center, (515) 992-370. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for a memorial to be chosen later.

Rev. Francis C. Griffeth

Published: Monday, September 8, 2008

TIRO, Ohio — Rev. Francis C. “Fran” Griffeth, 68, of Marion, died Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008, at St. Luke’s Hospital following a long illness. A celebration of life service will be held at Ascension Lutheran Church in Marion at 11 a.m. Tuesday with Rev. Linda Livingston officiating. Private graveside services will be held in the morning preceding a memorial service at the church he grew up in, Tiro Methodist Church, Tiro, Ohio. A luncheon will follow the service. Friends may call at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. on Monday and at the church after 10 a.m. on Tuesday.

Survivors include his former wife, Barbara, they had been married for 36 years; a son Brent (Anita) of Spooner, Wisconsin,, a daughter Jenny (Shane) Hartzler of Marion, six grandchildren, Shea, Elli, Emma, and Grace of Marion, Gena and Spenser of Spooner, Wisconsin, three brothers Richard (Betty) of Columbus, Ohio, Jim (Barbara) and Eldon (Ruth) of Shelby, Ohio, and cousins by the dozen. He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew and a niece.

Fran was born Feb. 6, 1940 in Mansfield, Ohio, the son of Cleo and Vernice (Cole) Griffeth. On Feb. 18, 1961, he married Barbara West in Anchorage, Alaska. Fran served in the Air Force and Army for 22 years (14 years in the Reserve forces). In 1967 he left the active military to attend St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn., and Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn.. He was ordained on July 15, 1975, and served parishes in Illinois and Iowa. In 1995, after a heart attack and two triple bypasses of his heart, he took a medical disability, but he continued to serve over a dozen congregations as an interim. He was a pastor for over 30 years. Fran loved his family, grandchildren, and friends in many places. He loved to preach and share stories and humor from the pulpit.

As a celebration of Fran’s life and new life, Fran requested that no one wear the traditional color black.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

Please leave a message or tribute to the Griffeth family on our web page, www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.

                 Posted on 09/08/2008 by Gene Manning

Rev. Francis C. ‘Fran’ Griffeth

Published: Tuesday, September 9, 2008

MARION — Rev. Francis C. “Fran” Griffeth, 68, of Marion, died Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008, at St. Luke’s Hospital following a long illness.

A celebration of life service will be held at Ascension Lutheran Church in Marion at 11 a.m. today with Rev. Linda Livingston officiating. Private graveside services will be held in the morning preceding a memorial service at the church he grew up in, Tiro Methodist Church, Tiro, Ohio, at 11 a.m. on Saturday. A luncheon will follow the service.

Fran was born Feb. 6, 1940, in Mansfield, Ohio, the son of Cleo and Vernice (Cole) Griffeth. On Feb. 18, 1961, he married Barbara West in Anchorage, Alaska. Fran served in the Air Force and Army for 22 years (14 years in the Reserve forces). In 1967 he left the active military to attend St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn., and Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. He was ordained on July 15, 1975, and served parishes in Illinois and Iowa. In 1995, after a heart attack and two triple bypasses of his heart, he took a medical disability, but he continued to serve over a dozen congregations as an interim. He was a pastor for over 30 years. Fran loved his family, grandchildren, and friends in many places. He loved to preach and share stories and humor from the pulpit.

Survivors include his former wife, Barbara, they had been married for 36 years; a son Brent (Anita) of Spooner, Wis., a daughter Jenny (Shane) Hartzler of Marion, six grandchildren, Shea, Elli, Emma, and Grace of Marion, Gena and Spenser of Spooner, Wisconsin, three brothers Richard (Betty) of Columbus, Ohio, Jim (Barbara) and Eldon (Ruth) of Shelby, Ohio, and cousins by the dozen. He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew and a niece.

As a celebration of Fran’s life and new life, Fran requested that no one wear the traditional color black.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

Please leave a message or tribute to the Griffeth family on our Web page, www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.

The Cedar Memorial Funeral Home, (319) 393-8000, is in charge of the arrangements.

Wilma Gaarder

Published: Wednesday, September 10, 2008

A memorial service for Wilma Gaarder, 86, of Charles City, who passed away on July 27, 2008, will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday,?Sept. 13, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charles City. Visitation with the family will be at the church half an hour prior to the service.

Michael Melrose

Published: Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Michael Melrose, 48, of Phoenix, Ariz., formerly of Charles City, died Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008, at John C. Lincoln Hospital in Phoenix.

Memorial services for Michael Melrose will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Pastors Dennis Niezwaag and David Werges will officiate. Inurnment will be in Riverside Cemetery.

The family will greet friends at the church from 10 a.m. until service time.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the YMCA Building Project, 800 Hulin St. Charles City, IA 50616.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

                    Posted on 09/10/2008 by Gene Manning

Richard D. Mead

Published: Thursday, September 11, 2008

NASHUA — Richard D. Mead, 65 of 1211 230th St. Nashua, died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008 at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Charles City. Officiating will be the Rev. Gary Van Werg. Visitation will be from 4 until 8 p.m., Friday at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt, Charles City. Interment will be in Sunnyside Memorial Gardens. Those wishing to contribute a memorial may do so to the Richard D. Mead memorial fund. Thoughts, stories and condolences may be shared with the family on the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt, Charles City, IA 50616 (641) 228-4211 www.fullertonfh.com

Michael Melrose

Published: Thursday, September 11, 2008

Michael Melrose, 48, of Phoenix, Ariz., formerly of Charles City, died Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008, at John C. Lincoln Hospital in Phoenix.

Memorial services for Michael Melrose will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at the Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Pastors Dennis Niezwaag and David Werges will officiate. Inurnment will be in Riverside Cemetery at Charles City.

The family will greet friends at the church from 10 a.m. until service time.

Michael Andrew Melrose was born Oct. 25, 1959, at Two Harbors, Minn., the son of Andy and Diane (Christensen) Melrose. He graduated from the Charles City High School in 1978, attended the University of Iowa from 1978 to 1980 and received an Associates Degree in advertising from Northwood Institute in Midland, Mich. in 1982. Michael sold advertising for a newspaper in Kansas City, Mo., For Rent Magazine and The Green Sheet in Dallas, Tex., Frisco Enterprise Newspaper in Frisco, Tex., Skyway News in St. Paul, Minn., he was national Sales Director for True West Magazine in Cave Creek, Ariz., and most recently he worked for the Arizona Republic in Phoenix, Ariz. He will always be remembered as a very outgoing person with a great sense of humor. He loved life and lit up a room whenever he entered. Michael enjoyed playing golf and softball as well as watching all types of sports, especially the Vikings, Twins and Lakers. His enjoyment of history and artwork of the Old West came from his days of working at True West magazine. Michael’s love of pop culture started in college when he wrote a movie script, took a cross country road trip and tried to sell it in Hollywood to no avail. He was also a huge music fan (especially songs of the 70’s and the Beatles) and saved memorabilia from childhood to present day that reminded him of good memories. Unknown to many, Michael also performed as an amateur comedian in Phoenix area comedy clubs the past two years. He wrote all of his own material and constantly took notes of anything funny to use in future routines. Michael always enjoyed a good game of chance with his family, friends, brothers, nephews and niece. He would often say, “Does anybody want to take me on for a buck a hole?”

Living family members include his parents, Andy and Diane Melrose of Charles City; two brothers, Mark (Carole) Melrose of Charles City and Tim (Ann) Melrose of Clearwater, Minn.; a niece, Ellen Melrose, and three nephews, Nicholas Melrose, Carter Melrose and Cole Maiers.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the YMCA Building Project, 800 Hulin St. Charles City, IA 50616.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

                       Posted on 09/11/2008 by Gene Manning

Virginia Mae Fish

Published: Friday, September 12, 2008

Virginia Mae Fish, 87, of Charles City, died Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Memorial services for Virginia Fish will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 17, 2008, at the First Congregational Church in Charles City. Pastor Phil Corr will officiate. Inurnment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene.

The family will greet friends an hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa, 1003 Gilbert St. Charles City, IA 50616.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Beverly Rasmussen

Published: Friday, September 12, 2008

Beverly Rasmussen, 75, of Charles City, died Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2008, at the Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City after battling pancreatic cancer for over two years.

Funeral services for Beverly Rasmussen will be held 2 p.m. Saturday at the Trinity United Methodist Church. Pastor Gary Van Wert will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery at Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 5-8 p.m. Friday. Visitation will continue Saturday at the church an hour prior to the service.

Beverly Lou Waller Rasmussen was born May 27, 1933, at Clear Lake the daughter of Ray and Millie (Martin) Waller. She graduated from the Mason City High School in 1951, received her Teaching Certificate from Mason City Junior College and earned her B.A. in Elementary Education from Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls. On Aug. 16, 1953 she was united in marriage to Fred “Gene” Rasmussen at Mason City. They lived in Charles City all of their lives and were active in the community. Beverly first taught school in Floyd and then at Charles City, retiring in 1999 after 45 years. Her love of teaching was evident in her caring for each and every student and over the years many kept in contact with her. Beverly was nominated by her students to receive the Golden Apple Award in 1998. She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church, Charles City Education Association, National Education Association, Iowa State Education Association, ADK, and the Red Hat Society. She enjoyed traveling, crocheting, cake decorating, swimming, playing the piano, and playing 500 with friends. Beverly’s family was always important to her and she looked forward to the times they could share their lives together. She rarely missed the opportunity to attend her grandchildren’s activities.

Living family members include her husband, Gene Rasmussen of Charles City; three children, Ken (Kimberly) Rasmussen of Mason City, Kim (Russ) Rosenbaum of Rock Falls, and Kay (Tony) Schmalen of Clear Lake; five grandchildren, Jacob Rasmussen, Eric and Amy Rosenbaum and Ryan and Bryce Schmalen; two brothers, Donald (Clarice) Waller of Jacksonville, Fla., Ray (Sue) Waller of Omaha, Nebr. and a sister Pat (Tom) Williams of Hemet, Calif.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, infant Michael Waller and Jerry Waller.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Richard D. Mead

Published: Friday, September 12, 2008

NASHUA — Richard D. Mead, 65 of 1211 230th St., Nashua, died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008 at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 13, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Charles City. Officiating will be the Rev. Gary Van Wert. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. today at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt, Charles City. Interment will be in Sunnyside Memorial Gardens. Those wishing to contribute a memorial may do so to the Richard D. Mead memorial fund. Thoughts, stories and condolences may be shared with the family on the funeral home Web site at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Richard was born on Jan. 10, 1943 in Charles City, one of three children to John Gordon "Gordy" and Harriet (Sisson) Mead. He graduated from the Charles City High School with the class of 1961. He had the distinction and current honors of being the first four-year letter winner in wrestling. He was conference champion and went on to state where he beat several other former state champions. His early career was being one of the foundry managers for White farm for 24 years. He then became an equipment operator for Fred Carlson working on road construction. All his life he enjoyed hunting, trapping and fishing with his family. He also found time to find those secret spots for his morel mushrooms. Richard loved to grill and was often in charge of the foundry cookouts cooking half chickens for over 300 of his friends and co-workers. As a fiercely dedicated Vikings fan he was without match. His faithful companion Roscoe the lab/retriever mix was always with him. He passed on his love of wrestling to his sons and would often take Gerad to meets as far away as Kansas and Oklahoma. Richard was united in marriage to Elizabeth "Betty Lence" on Jan. 29, 1964, in Charles City and later was married to Linda Pitz on Dec. 5, 1981, in Nashua.

Those left behind to mourn his passing include his five children, Angie (Mead) Tonelli and Gordon Mead both of Charles City; Daniel and Chris Mead both of Greene, and Gerad Mead of St. Paul, Minn.; along with his six grandchildren Jamie, Brady, Faith, Alex, Jesse, and Ashley and his surviving sister Bev and her husband Mike DeLeeuw, along with numerous friends.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Ron Mead.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt, Charles City, (641) 228-4211, www.fullertonfh.com, is in charge of the arrangements.

                          Posted on 09/12/2008 by Gene Manning

Mabel E. Hansen

Published: Monday, September 15, 2008

Mabel E. Hansen, 98, of Charles City, died Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008, at the Hospice of North Iowa Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services for Mabel Hansen will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Pastors Dennis Niezwaag and David Werges will officiate. Entombment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens rural Charles City. The family will greet friends at the church an hour prior to the service.

Mabel Edna Howe Jung Hansen was born Dec. 1, 1909, on a farm near Niles Corner the daughter of Charles and Edith (Schmidt) Howe. She graduated from Charles City High School in 1928. In 1929 she married Walter J. Jung. To this union two children, Mavis and Robert, were born. They divorced in 1970. In 1971, she was united in marriage to Donovan Hansen. She was a member of the Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Mabel enjoyed crocheting, playing cards and visiting with her family. Living family members include a daughter, Mavis Sullivan of Lancaster, Va.; seven grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; seven, great great grandchildren; a sister, Esther Brunner of Charles City; a sister-in-law, Bernadine Howe of Rockford; a daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Jung of Clear Lake; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; a son; and a son-in-law, Miles Sullivan.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Max Swab

Published: Monday, September 15, 2008

Max Swab, 80, of Marshalltown, formerly of Charles City, died Friday, Sept. 12, 2008, at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown.

Graveside services for Max Swab will be held 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene. Pastor Gary Van Wert, of the Trinity United Methodist Church, will officiate.

Max Dale Swab was born Oct. 20, 1927, at Marble Rock, the son of Clarence and Elsie (Kivell) Swab. He received his education at Marble Rock. Max proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Upon his discharge from the Army Max returned home and continued his farming career. He always looked forward to a rousing game of cards and watching sports on the television. Living family members include a sister-in-law, Wreatha Swab of Charles City; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert Swab; and three sisters, Eileen Samek, Wilma Grant, and Marguerite Swab.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Eunice E. Hicks

Published: Monday, September 15, 2008

Eunice E. Hicks, 85, of 604 Milwaukee St., Charles City, died Friday morning, Sept. 12, 2008 at Floyd County Memorial Hospital.

Private family services were held at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home. Eunice was cremated at Cremation Services of North Iowa and will be buried with her husband at a later time. No public services are planned in accordance to Eunice and Kenneth’s wishes. Those wishing to share condolences, stories or thoughts may do so on the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Eunice lived a full and rich life. She was born on Jan. 23, 1923 in Howard County, the daughter of Elbert (Lee) and Theresa (Kruger) Powers. She was a graduate of the Charles City High School, class of 1941. For the next several years she was a secretary at White Farm. She met the love of her life while roller-skating at Breezy Point. As their love bloomed Kenneth Hicks and Eunice decided to unite in marriage on Feb. 17, 1944 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charles City where she had been baptized and confirmed. To this union was born two sons and one daughter. Kenneth was in the service of his country as a chemists and she followed him from camp to camp until he was shipped overseas during WWII. Following his discharge they made their home at several places in Charles City, then building a home south of Charles City where they lived for 20 years until moving back into town in 1973.

For 25 years they spent their winters in the Rio Grand Valley in Texas. Always ones for travel they spent weekends with the Tent-N-Trailer group and every summer they took a family vacation, visiting all over the United States which included the Columbia River near Portland, Ore., Yellow Stone National Park, Chicago and down both coasts of Mexico. Eunice was very artistic and created folk art painting in acrylics and hand stitching quilts. She found a new love in caring for a herb garden and making her own green tea and watching the butterflies and birds that would gather in her garden. Yet she always found time to spend with her grandchildren so that her daughter Barb could go to work.

Those left to remember her loving care include her husband Kenneth of 64 years, her sons Rodney and his wife Joyce Hicks of Soddy Daisy, Tenn.; her daughter Barbara and her husband Terry Mork, and son Martin and his wife Sandy Hicks all of Charles City; seven grandchildren Dustin, Jason, Shiloh, Mindy, Tyler, Austin and Shelby and five great grandchildren.

Her parents and one brother Lloyd Powers who died in 1988 preceded her in death.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt, Charles City, Iowa 50616 (641) 228-4211 www.fullertonfh.com.

                      Posted on 09/15/2008 by Gene Manning

Virginia Mae Fish

Published: Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Virginia Mae Fish, 87, of Charles City, died Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Memorial services for Virginia Fish will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the First Congregational Church in Charles City. Pastor Phil Corr will officiate. Inurnment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene.

The family will greet friends an hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

Virginia Mae Hardy Fish was born Sept. 7, 1920, near Greene, the daughter of Vernon and Anna (Kingery) Hardy. She graduated from the Greene High School and attended Hamilton Business College. On Oct. 12, 1940, she was united in marriage to Eldred Franke. She was a secretary for the Rural Electric Cooperative during WWII, first in Allison and then in Marshalltown. Virginia and her husband Eldred purchased an existing electrical business in State Center, where she did the book keeping and ran the store. They did electrical contracting for 20 years. She was co-owner and office manager. Virginia was also the Marshall County Weed Commissioner, Sanitarian and Zoning Administrator. The two of them moved to Arizona in 1980. Eldred died in 1988. On Aug. 12, 1989, she was united in marriage to Robert “Vern” Fish at Ladue, Mo. She was active in the garden club for 35 years, becoming a master flower arranger, master gardener and flower show judge. For three years, Virginia did flower arranging programs at the Iowa State Fair using fresh flowers to show different arrangements. She was a member of the First Congregational Church, National Council State Gardens Club for 35 years, and National Board for 14 years was President of garden clubs in Iowa and Arizona Board, Charles City Women’s Club and was a Heart of Home Hospice volunteer. From 1987 to 1989 she was Pacific Region Director and visited the garden clubs of the eight most western states. Her interests included helping with 4 H Club and activities at the church.

Living family members include her husband, Robert “Vern” Fish of Charles City; three children: Russel (Megan) Franke of Hermann, Mo., Elaine Franke of Phoenix, Ariz. and Janyce (Tom) Yates of Mesa, Ariz.; three step-children, Beverly Fish of Rochester, Minn., Jim (Dawn) Fish of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla. and Roger (Janel) Fish of Eldora; six grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Eldred; and two sisters, Eva Fish and Marjorie Sessler.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa, 1003 Gilbert St. Charles City, IA 50616.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy L. Brunsman

Published: Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Dorothy L. Brunsman, 92, formerly of 514 7th Ave., Charles City died Wednesday morning, Sept. 10, 2008 at Cedar Health in Charles City.

A celebration of Dorothy’s life was held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 106 Chapel Lane, Charles City at 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 12, 2008. Rev. Carl Ries officiated. Visitation will was one hour prior to services at the church. Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt is in charge of arrangements. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Hospice. Stories, condolences and thoughts may be shared with the family on the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Dorothy was born on Feb. 4, 1916, one of three daughters born to Nickolas and Anna Clara “Musil” Ewen in Marble Rock. She attended and graduated with the class of 1933 in Marble Rock. She then attended Waterloo School of Beauty Culture for one year, graduating in 1935. She began her career with Mary Helmer’s in Charles City and then owned and operated her own shop in Marble Rock. She later worked as a night cashier for Club Iowa for 41/2 years and then in the jewelry and cosmetic department at Trowbridge’s. While there she lived through the tornado and came upstairs from the basement to find everything gone. On July 5, 1935 she was united in marriage to Wilber Munshower in Glenville, Minn. and to this union was born two children, Jean Marie and Ron. Wilber preceded her in death in 1965. Four years later she married Eugene Brunsman on February 1, 1969 in Charles City. They moved to the Branson, Mo. area for 17 years and they returned to Charles City in 1982 just prior to his death in 1983. Dorothy was a charter member of the Forsyth Art Guild. She always enjoyed art and became an artist and acquired her own kiln to fire her china painting. She cooked and baked and tended her garden. She hated making popcorn because of all the memories of making it constantly at Trowbridge’s. She was excellent at crossword puzzles and had the most perfect grammar and vocabulary. She would sit down anytime to play scrabble with the grandchildren and loved to get all dressed up to attend her grandson’s band performances and dance with her son. She was also fond of her cats and always had a “Tubby” in the house.

Dorothy will be sadly missed by her two children Jean Marie Troge, and Ron and his wife Carol Munshower all of Charles City, her five grandchildren, Philip Troge, Ann Troge, Lisa Elthon, Mike Munshower, and Wendy Ross, her eleven great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren.

Her parents, both husbands Wilber and Eugene, one son-in-law Jack Troge in 2001, two sisters Gladyce Stoecker and Jennie Stauffer, and four stepchildren preceded her in death.

Fullerton Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt, Charles City, IA 50616 (641) 228-4211, www.Fullertonfh.co

                    Posted on 09/16/2008 by Gene Manning

Lavon Fritze

Published: Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Lavon Fritze, 88, of Clarksville, died Sept. 13 and Waverly Health Center.

She was born May 18, 1920 in Bristow, daughter of Richard and Tena Behrends.

Survivors include two sons, Don (Marlis) of Greene and Larry (Hui Cha) of Charles City. Four daughters, Sharon (LeRoy) Rover of Charles City, Judy (Chet) Taylor of Clarksville, Patty (Don) LaRue of Ionia and Marilyn (Dave) Thoe of Golden, Colo. Ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Roy, five brothers and one sister.

There will be no visitation. Inurnment will be at a later date.

Edwin L. Legel

Published: Friday, September 19, 2008

NASHUA — Edwin L. Legel, 95, of rural Nashua died Thursday afternoon, Sept. 18, 2008, at the Waverly Health Center in Waverly.

Funeral services are tentatively being planned for Monday, Sept. 22, at St. John's United Church of Christ / Pleasant Hill, rural Nashua with Rev. Charles Dorsey officiating.

Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery rural Nashua.

Visitation is tentatively being planned for Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua, (641) 435-4134. All times are pending.

                        Posted on 09/19/2008 by Gene Manning

Douglas Adelmund

Published: Monday, September 22, 2008

Douglas Adelmund, age 69, of Nora Springs and formerly of Clarksville, died Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2008, in the Nora Springs Care Center of natural causes.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Clarksville.

Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. Sunday at the Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Clarksville, (319) 278-4245.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Edwin L. Legel

Published: Monday, September 22, 2008

Edwin L. Legel, 95, of rural Nashua died Thursday afternoon, Sept. 18, 2008 at the Waverly Health Center in Waverly.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, 2008 at St. John’s United Church of Christ/Pleasant Hill, rural Nashua with Rev. Charles Dorsey officiating. Mary Jo Stille will be the organist leading the congregation in the singing of “How Great Thou Art,” “Rock Of Ages” and “God, Be With You Till We Meet Again.” Troy Stille, Teresa Finger and Tonja Fisher will sing “Amazing Grace and the “Lord’s Prayer.”

Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery in rural Nashua with Dr. Randy Groth, Ron Dralle, Ben Lovrein, Larry Wright, Ron Stille and Milton Schmidt serving as pallbearers. Dr. Al Van Arkel, Brian Allison, Vern Simon and Dr. Michael Berstler will be honorary pallbearers. Visitation was from 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008 at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua and will be one hour prior to services at the church on Monday. Memorials may be directed to St. John’s United Church of Christ Memorial Fund, 10007 Union Ave., Nashua, IA 50658, or Community Nursing Home, 115 N. Hilton, Clarksville, IA 50619. Online condolences may be left for Edwin at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Edwin Louis Legel was born Jan. 8, 1913 in Fremont Township, Butler County, the son of Louis and Anna (Brugger) Legel. He attended country school and Nashua High School.

He was united in marriage to Erica Clara Graber June 2, 1939 at St. John’s United Church of Christ / Pleasant Hill rural Nashua. To this union four children were born. They farmed in the Nashua area until moving to their present farm west of Nashua in 1944, where Ed farmed until just recently. Edwin was a life-long farmer and herdsman, it was a job he loved. Ed was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, serving for a time as Church President. He loved hunting of all kinds especially fox and coon hunting.

Edwin is survived by his wife, Erica; his four children, Robert Legel of Nashua, Janice Legel of Waterloo, Raymond (Geralynn) Legel of Waverly and Marilyn Crist (Dr. Henry Parker) of Martin, Tenn.; three grandchildren, Alicia Maya, Shauna Crist and Lyndsay Legel; two great-grandchildren, Brianna and Nathan Maya. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Esther Darrow, Elsa Stille and Louise Wright.

                       Posted on 09/22/2008 by Gene Manning

Brian ‘Buzz’ Benson

Published: Tuesday, September 23, 2008

DUMONT — Brian "Buzz" Benson, 42, of Aplington, passed away Sept. 21, 2008, in rural Ackley.

A?memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday at the Dumont City Park (shelter house). Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont. The Rev. Tom Laufer will officiate the service.

Brian was born July 12, 1966, in Britt, to Jay and Lila (Schnell) Benson. Brian attended schools in Allison and Greene. He had a love for animals, his dog CoCoa was dear to him. Buzz enjoyed riding his Harley, camping, fishing, snowmobiling, working along side his nephews, spending time joking and talking with everyone he met. He had a special place in his heart for Kim.

Brian will be greatly missed by his significant other, Kim Burkett; his mother, Lila Gruelke of Allison; sisters Verla (Todd) Nolte of Dumont and Lanette Benson of Allison; brother David (Heather) Benson of Waverly; eight nephews: Roger, Christopher, Derek, Trent, Dane, Jared, Gabriel and Sam; six nieces: Chasidy, Tonya, Hannah, Ivy, Hannah and Rachel; one great nephew, Harley; two great nieces, Hailey and Chloe; two step children, Courtney and Luke; along with many uncles, aunts and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father Jay W. Benson and grandparents.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to Brian Buzz Benson Memorial Fund at: First Security Bank of Dumont, P.O. Box 309, Dumont, IA 50625.

Mary R. Brunsen Becker

Published: Thursday, September 25, 2008

MASON CITY — Mary R. Brunsen Becker, 81 of 1033 19th St. SW, Mason City, died Tuesday evening, Sept. 23, 2008, at Hospice of North Iowa Inpatient Unit.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 714 N. Adams, Mason City. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday at Fullerton Funeral Home, 123 2nd St. SE, Mason City and again one hour prior to services at the church. There will be a Catholic Daughters of America rosary at 5 p.m., followed by a parish wake service at 5:30 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home. Interment will be in St. Joseph Elmwood Cemetery.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Mary R. Brunsen-Becker memorial fund, Hospice of North Iowa, or Holy Family Catholic Church in care of her daughter Linda Reynolds at 3623 W. Brenwick, Peoria, IL 61614. Thoughts, condolences, or stories may be shared with the family at the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Mason City, (641) 423-8676, www.Fullertonfh.com is in charge of the arrangements.

Msgr. Ervin John Schmitt

Published: Thursday, September 25, 2008

The Rev. Monsignor Ervin John Schmitt, 76, passed away on Sept. 21, 2008 in Pueblo, Colo.

A wake/rosary will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 25, and funeral Mass at 10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 26, both services held at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Pueblo. Interment will be in Roselawn Cemetery.

He was born on March 2, 1932, in Rockford in Floyd County, Iowa, to Nicholas and Mary (Sinwell) Schmitt. He received his education at St. Mary’s Academy, Roseville, and his high school, philosophy, college and theology education at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio.

The Rev. Schmitt was ordained at the Pontifical College Josephinum on June 10, 1958, by the Apostolic Delegate, Ameleto Giovanni Cicognani. His past assignments included: Our Lady of Guadalupe, La Junta (assistant), St. Columba’s, Durango (assistant), St. Pius X, Pueblo (assistant), St. Francis Xavier, Pueblo (assistant), Sacred Heart and Missions, Gardner (administrator), Sacred Heart and Missions, Avondale (administrator), St. Anthony’s, Pueblo (pastor 1970-1979), Vocation Director for Diocese (1967-1977), Vida (volunteer) Director (1967-1979), Our Lady of the Meadows (founding pastor 1979-1991), Our Lady of the Assumption (pastor 1991-1996), Tri-Parish Community of Our Lady of the Assumption, St. Mary and St. Patrick’s (pastor 1996-2000).

Following his retirement on July 1, 2000, he served as chaplain at St. Mary-Corwin Hospital (part time) and celebrated Liturgical and Sacramental Ministry in various local parishes, especially Holy Family, Pueblo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Mary Schmitt; seven brothers: Nicholas Jr., William, Louis, Victor, Vincent, Stephen and Aloysius; and three sisters: Rose, Clara and Evelyn. He is survived by numerous relatives and friends.

A Memorial Mass in honor of Rev. Msgr. Schmitt will be held at St. Mary Church, Roseville, at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 6, with Msgr. Walter Brunkan officiating.

In lieu of flowers, gifts or donations may be made to Centro De Los Pobres, Avondale, Colo. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the George McCarthy Funeral Home.

                      Posted on 09/25/2008 by Gene Manning

Elmer F. Kreger

Published: Monday, September 29, 2008

Elmer F. Kreger, 85, of 601 7th St. Charles City, died Friday evening Sept. 27, 2008 at the Chautauqua Guest Home, Charles City.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am Monday, Sept. 29, 2008 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. Officiating will be the Rev. Dennis Niezwaag, and David Werges. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Sunday at the Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St. Charles City. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery with full military honors. Stories, condolences, and thoughts may be shared with the family on the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Elmer was born on Feb. 24, 1923 in Floyd, the middle child of Fredrick and Luella Schlaach. He was raised on the family farm and attended school in Floyd. During his early years he liked to putter with equipment around the farm and be in the outdoors hunting, fishing and gardening that grew into a lifetime hobby. He joined the Marine Corps on June 16, 1945 and was honorably discharged in October of 1946. During his enlistment he traveled to Hawaii, the Philippines, Guam and then China, working in the security forces. When he returned from WWII he met his future wife at family get together in Ripon Wisc. Then on Oct. 26, 1958, Mabel H. Wichman were united in marriage at the parsonage in Ripon, Wis. They moved to Charles City where Elmer lived and began their life as husband and wife soon welcoming two sons to the family. Elmer studied at the Coyne School in Chicago for the trade of Electrician. Elmer was then engaged as an electrician for 43 years working for Wubben's and their predecessors for 17 years. Elmer was known for his great sense of humor and his friendly manors. He was always considerate of others and helped many with free work because they were deserving people that he knew. He was a member of the American Legion, and a very active member of St. John’s where he served as an usher for over 40 years, along with serving on the church and stewardship boards. He also served the city of Charles City on the Electrical Board.

Those thankful in sharing Elmer’s life include his wife Mabel, of just shy of 51 years, their two sons James William and Randall Dean both of Charles City, one brother Eugene and his wife Shirley Kreger, Waterloo; four sister in laws Rose Wichman, Andrea and her husband Ben Werzinske, Eilene and her husband Don Enders, Marion Kreger, two brother in laws Bill and his wife Judie, Wichman, and Les and his wife Carol Wichman, and many nieces and nephews.

His parents, one brother Clayton Kreger and one brother in law DuWayne Wichman preceded him in death.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt St., Charles City, IA, (641) 228-4211. www.fullertonfh.com is in charge of the arrangements.

Anne Hill

Published: Tuesday, September 30, 2008

PALM HARBOR, Fla. — Anna (Anne) Cerny Hill passed away in Florida on Grandparent’s Day, Sunday Sept. 7, 2008, at the age of 94 years. A Memorial services will be held at the Goldfield United Methodist Church on Oct. 18, 2008.

Anne was born Feb. 22, 1914, in Stanton County Nebraska, the oldest of 10 children to John and Anna (Kavka) Cerny. She was educated in Stanton, Neb. In March 1930, Anne began to work for Walt and Alice Barr in Stanton County Nebraska, where she met Alva Dale Hill. They were married on July 17, 1937 in Humbolt, Iowa. To this union, three children were born. She lived in the Goldfield area until March, 1978. She was an active member of the Evergreen D.O.C., the Goldfield Flor-ettes garden club, the Goldfield United Methodist Church teaching Sunday school over 25 years and the United Methodist Women. She distributed Avon products for over 10 years.

Anne was very talented using her hands in creating beautiful crafts. She painted in the rosemaul style, which is a Norwegian painting technique. She used real egg shells to create decorative Christmas and Easter eggs. She refinished furniture and woodwork. She was a good cook and enjoyed trying new and collecting recipes. She loved to garden and maintained numerous beautiful flower beds where ever she lived. She provided and arranged flowers for the GUMC. In 1978, she moved to Des Moines, where she became a housekeeper for the rectories of Sacred Heart and Saint Theresa’s Churches for eight years, retiring in 1985. In August 2003, she moved to Palm Harbor, Fla.

Anne is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John S. and Kristin Hill of Palm Harbor, Fla.; her daughter and son-in-law, Joy Anne and Dale Frank of Charles City; her daughter-in-law Caren Edwards Hill Apprich of Plattsmonth, Neb.; grandchildren: Scott and Susan Hill of Valley, Neb., Brad and Gina Hill of Omaha, Neb., Kristin Frank of North English, Karin and Steffen Schweda of Erdmannhausen, Germany, Jeff and Tessa Hill of Bennington, Neb., J. Stanton Hill of Nashville, Tenn., Jacob R. Hill of Palm Harbor, Fla., Lauren A. Hill of Gainesville, Fla.; and 12 great grandchildren.

Surviving sisters are Mary Brachman of O’Neil, Neb., Helen Bartman of Fruita, Colo., along with Alice Alrene Priest and Dorothy Spoonover of Libby, Mont.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Leonard Cerny; her sister Blanche Schaumburg; three infant siblings; and her first son, Jim D. Hill.

Memorials may be directed to the Goldfield United Methodist Church for the Anne Hill Memorial Flower Fund.

Marjorie de Buhr

Published: Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Marjorie de Buhr, 91, of Rockford, died Sunday, Sept. 28, 2008, at the Nora Springs Care Center in Nora Springs.

Memorial services for Marjorie de Buhr will be held 2:30 p.m. Thursday at the Zion Lutheran Church in Rockford. Pastor Patricia Shaw will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery at Rockford.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday.

Marjorie Ellen Mooberry de Buhr was born December 13, 1916, at Marble Rock, the daughter of John and Hetta (Ritter) Mooberry. She graduated from the Rockford High School in 1934. On March 27, 1935, she was united in marriage to William “Bill” de Buhr at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They lived at Charles City before moving to Minneapolis in 1941. In 1949 they returned to Iowa where they farmed south of Rockford for 30 years. Following Bill’s death she returned to Charles City. Marjorie married Valoris Taylor on June 11, 1986.

Living family members include two daughters, Louise (Jim) Ott of Rockford, Bea (Bruce) Pennington of Mason City; two sons, Larry (Gayle) de Buhr of Menomonie, Wisc., and Bruce (Brenda) de Buhr of Coon Rapids, Minn.; eight grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and numerous step grandchildren and step great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Bill de Buhr in 1978 and Valoris Taylor in 1986; a sister, Wilma Gohr; and a brother, Clint Mooberry.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Karla K. Dana

Published: Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Karla K. Dana, 69, of Charles City, died Saturday, Sept. 27, 2008, at the Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

A funeral Mass for Karla Dana will be held 10 a.m. Thursday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City. The Reverend Carl Ries will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, where there will be a Vigil Scriptural Wake Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue an hour prior to the Mass at the church on Thursday.

Karla Kay Meyers Dana was born Jan. 8, 1939, at Charles City, the daughter of Harold and Florence (Ayers) Meyers. She graduated from Charles City High School. On Dec. 15, 1956, she was united in marriage to Bruce Dana, at Austin, Minn. Karla was employed at Spurgeon’s in Charles City for 25 years and at Cedar Valley Printing where she retired. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and St. Bernadette Circle. Karla was very active in the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and PTA. Her interests included craft work, jig saw puzzles, bird watching and camping. Karla’s greatest love was spending time with her family.

Living family members include her husband, Bruce Dana of Charles City; four children, Daniel (Shawn) Dana of Oconomowc, Wis., Gale (Rhonda) Dana of Cedar Falls, Ronda (Joe) Frascht of Charles City and Craig “Pike” (Becky) Dana of Altoona; nine grandchildren, Atalia and her fianc/ Kevin Krueger, Natasha, Abigail, Ashley, Alexandra, Jessica (Matt) Frana, Bailey (Ben) Schutz, Alyssa and Alex; two sisters, Sharon (Glenn) Hatzky of Nashua and Carol (Jim) Tyler of Lubbock, Texas; brother, Ronald “Butch” (Roxanne) Meyers of Charles City; many nieces; nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Harold Meyers.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com,

                       Posted on 09/30/2008 by Gene Manning