MASON CITY, IOWA - Virginia L. "Jiggs" Nickerson, 88, of Mason City, died Wednesday, January 30, at her home that she dearly loved. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 5, at St. James Lutheran Church, 1148 4th Street S.E., with Pastor David Anderson, Pastor Jeni Bohls and Pastor Paul Nelson officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 4, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Interment will be at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Virginia Nickerson memorial fund in care of the family. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome. com.

Virginia was born July 28, 1924, in Charles City, the daughter of Harry Henry and Rosinia (Kaya) Rabb. She graduated from Charles City High School in 1942. Following graduation, Virginia worked for the War Dept. in Washington D.C. from 1942-1945, during World War II. Virginia was united in marriage to Clifton E. "Butch" Nickerson on February 1, 1946, in Charles City and in 1949, she had her one and only daughter Janese. Over the years Virginia worked in residential commercial cleaning -- until she retired at the age of 83. She also spent countless hours volunteering at her granddaughter's day care being everyone's favorite grandma.

Virginia enjoyed spending time with her family -- especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Back in the day, she was an accomplished roller skater in Washington, D.C. and she delighted in telling war time tales. There was always a Sunday meal at Grandma's house, and she enjoyed sewing, tending to her yard and flower garden, taking care of her cat "Chancy," and traveling to Las Vegas. She was a member of St. James Lutheran Church. Virginia was a hard worker with a great sense of humor and always the life of the party. She will be deeply missed by her loving family and all who knew her.

Virginia is survived by two grandchildren: Kim Tilkes and husband Aaron, of Mason City, and Kris Wade and husband Jon, of Katy, Texas; seven great-grandchildren: Bailey, Brady, Bobbi, and Brandi Tilkes, of Mason City, and Luke, Libby, and Liza Wade of Katy, Texas; one nephew: Greg Snere, of Mason City; and ex son-in-law: Bruce Wing, of Cleveland, Minnesota

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1984; her daughter, Janese Wing in 1999; and two siblings, Anita Snere and Douglas Rabb.

Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, (641) 423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Charles City Press - 4 FEB 2013

#1:

Bessie Speaker, 96, of Charles City, died Sunday, February 3, 2013, at Colonial Manor in Elma.

Arrangements are pending with the Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - 4 FEB 2013

#2:

Bessie Speakar

Bessie Speakar, 96, of Charles City, Iowa, died Sunday, February 3, 2013, at Colonial Manor of Elma, Iowa.

Friends may call from 5-7 p.m. Friday, with a 6 p.m. Celebration of Life service at the Hauser Funeral Home. Interment will be 11 a.m. Saturday, at Elmwood Cemetery Mason City.

Bessie Killian Speakar was born December 23, 1916, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughter of Theodore and Millie (Sorentitch) Killian. She graduated from Mason City High School in 1936. On May 3, 1941, she was united in marriage to John Speaker in Albert Lea, Minnesota. They then moved to Charles City in 1944. Bessie worked at Jacob E. Deckers, in Mason City, and worked as a cook at the Charles City High School. She enjoyed crocheting, crafts, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Left to celebrate Bessie's life are two daughters, Susan (Raymond) Pratt, of San Antonio, Texas, and Sandra (Leland) Koenigsfeld, of Union, Missouri; five grandchildren: Eric (Tina) Pratt, Tim (Dana) Koenigsfeld, Tami (Steve) Weinholt, Tari (Jim) Fink and Ted (Cindy) Koenigsfeld; great-grandchildren: Cameron and Samantha Pratt, Joe and Chelsea Koenigsfeld, Trey, Cooper and Colton Fink, Brady and Madie Weinholt, and Lucie and Millie Koenigsfeld; and a brother, Eli Killian, of Mesa, Arizona.

Bessie was preceded in death by her parents; husband John on October 19, 1982; and a sister, Ruth Carmany.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - 6 FEB 2013

Carrie Mae Rindels, 100 years, 8 months and 29 days old, passed away at the Rehabilitation Center of Allison, where she had been a resident since March 2006.

Carrie was born on May 5, 1912, in rural Grundy County, the second of nine children, to Cornelius and Katie (Alberts) Haan. When she was a young child, her family moved to Aplington, where she attended school. In her younger years, she was very good in sports, once pitching a no hitter in softball. She said "I could run like the wind."   She loved trains and would walk to Parkersburg, then ride the train back to Aplington.

On September 25, 1936, Carrie was united in marriage to Ede Richard Rindels in Allison. The couple lived and farmed at several locations in the Butler County area until 1950, when they moved to Shell Rock. To this union, two children were born. Carrie was a great house wife and a very good cook. She also worked at V & A variety store. She was baptized on September 18, 1941, in Iowa Falls.

Later in life, she enjoyed crossword puzzles, sports on TV and Bingo. She also did some volunteer work at the United Methodist Church in Shell Rock, where she was a 60-year member. She looked forward to visits from family and friends. She enjoyed spending time with family, especially her grandchildren.

Carrie is survived by her son, Kenneth (Mary) Rindels, of Charles City; and daughter, Linda Muller, of Des Moines; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren one great-great grandson; two sisters, Ruth Kirklie and Inez Ayers; two sisters-in-laws, Berdene Steer and Lula Rindels; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ede, in 1988; her parents; three brothers: Alvin, Harlan and Duane; three sisters: Rosa Kusian, Lorraine Fletcher and Muriel Card; five sisters-in-law, four brothers-in-law; two nieces; and six nephews Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 10:30 a.m., at Shell Rock United Methodist Church, in Shell Rock, with Pastor Dan Fernandez officiating. Visitation will be on Friday, Feb. 8, where family will greet friends from 4-7 p.m. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, in Shell Rock.

Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.kaisercorson.com.

Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Shell Rock is assisting the family. (319) 885-4321.

Charles City Press - 5 FEB 2013

Lorraine Margaret Kloster Hoffman

#1:

CHARLES CITY, IOWA - Lorraine Hoffman, 89, of Charles City died Wednesday, February 6, 2013, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Arrangements are pending with the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City, 641-228-2323, www.hauserfh.com.

(Mason City Globe Gazette, 2/8/2013)

#2:

Lorraine Hoffman

Date Of Birth: September 22, 1923
Date Of Death: February 6, 2013

Lorraine Hoffman, 89, of Charles City, died Wednesday, February 6, 2013, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Arrangements are pending.

(Hauser Funeral Home website, 2/8/2013)

Lorraine Hoffman

#3:

Lorraine Hoffman, 89, of Charles City, died Wednesday, February 6, 2013, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Arrangements are pending with the Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - 9 FEB 2013

Lorraine Margaret Kloster Hoffman

#4:

Date Of Birth: September 22, 1923
Date Of Death: February 6, 2013

Lorraine Hoffman, 89, of Charles City, died Wednesday, February 6, 2013, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Lorraine Hoffman will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Monsignor Stanley Hayek will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery at Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday where there will be a 5 p.m. Rosary and 7 p.m. Scripture Service. Visitation will continue Monday at the church an hour prior to the Mass.

Lorraine Margaret Kloster Hoffman was born September 22, 1923, at New Hampton, the daughter of Frank and Margaret (Schwickerath) Kloster. She received her education at Immaculate Conception School in North Washington. On July 7, 1947, she was united in marriage to August Hoffman. They lived all of their lives in Chickasaw and Floyd Counties. Lorraine was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and St. Mary's Circle.

She will always be remembered for her deep faith. Her interests included gardening and needlework. Lorraine enjoyed visiting with her family and friends and she always looked forward to spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and hosting the family events.

Living family members include children, Kenneth Hoffman of Ionia, Sharon (Maurice) Miller of Ionia, Dennis Hoffman of Osage, Gerald (Cindy) Hoffman of Little Cedar, Carol (Gary) Arickx of Floyd, Thomas Hoffman of Tampa, Fla., Ronald Hoffman of Colwell, Joan (Don) Fix of Mason City, Susan (Larry) Bortz of Rudd and Dean (Laurie) Hoffman of Ionia; 19 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren with three on the way; and a sister-in-law, Agatha Hoffman of Ionia.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, August on June 7, 1999; two grandchildren; and a brother, Raymond and his wife Bernice Kloster.

Hauser Funeral Home website, 2/9/2013

Sophia Caroline Steere

#1:

Funeral services for Sophia Caroline Steere, 94, of Greene, will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene with Pastor Gary Hatcher officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene. Visitation will be on Sunday, Feb. 10, from 4-7 p.m. with a Public Scripture Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church one hour before services on Monday.

Sophia Caroline Steere was born on Feb. 22, 1918, on the family farm in Butler County, the daughter of William and Sophia (Drogemuller) Steere and passed away on the family farm Wednesday, February 6, 2013.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Sophia Steere Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 219, Greene, Iowa 50636.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St. Greene. (641) 823-4457 www.reidsfuneralchapel.com

Charles City Press - 9 FEB 2013

Sophia Caroline Steere

#2:

Funeral services for Sophia Caroline Steere, 94, of Greene, will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 11, 2013, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene with Pastor Gary Hatcher officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene.

Visitation will be on Sunday, February 10, 2013, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with a Public Scripture Service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church one hour before services on Monday.

Sophia Caroline Steere was born on February 22, 1918, on the family farm in Butler County, Iowa, the daughter of William and Sophia (Drogemuller) Steere and passed away on the family farm Wednesday, February 6, 2013. She received her education at the Coldwater Country School #7. Sophia was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene. She was baptized on March 17, 1918, at St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church in Vilmar. Sophia was confirmed on May 24, 1931, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Greene.

Throughout her life, Sophia worked on the farm raising chickens and ducks and helping with other farm chores. She loved growing a garden. She gave the extras to family and friends. She love to cook. Everyone can remember her famous chocolate chip cookies, buns and chiffon cake with chocolate frosting. She expressed her love for children by babysitting for many relatives and friends.

Living family members include: Grandchildren: Karla, Todd, Darla and Wendy Steere of Greene, Michael (Cindy) Steere of Greene, Paula (Gary) Elkin of Ackley, Corey (Tricia) Steere of Elma and nine great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren; Daughter-in-law, Darlyce Steere of Greene; one brother, Eugene (Anna Mae) Steere of Greene; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Earl; her parents and her sisters: Leona, Lela Steere and Dorothy Klunder; her brothers:John, William, Leo, Henry, Vernon, and a brother in infancy.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Sophia Steere Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 219, Greene, Iowa 50636. Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St. Greene. 641-823-4457 www.reidsfuneralchapel.com

Source: www.reidsfuneralchapel.com - 2/10/2013

Ruth B. Fisher

Ruth B. Fisher, 88, of Nashua, died Thursday morning, Feb. 7, 2013, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua. Online condolences for Ruth's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com at (641) 435-4134.

Charles City Press - 9 FEB 2013

Janet Della Schwartzkopf

Janet Della Schwartzkopf, 90, of Charles City passed away on February 7, 2013 at Cedar Health in Charles City. Online condolences may be left at www.fullertonfh. com.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 12, at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St., Charles City. Reverend Dennis Niezwaag will be officiating. Interment will follow at Sunnyside Memory Gardens in Charles City. A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, February 11 at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home.

Janet Schwartzkopf was born on August 21, 1922, in Kimballton, to Frank and Julia (Nielsen) Thomsen. She graduated from high school in Audubon. In the 1940s, Janet moved to Charles City with her parents. While working at the Oliver plant she met her husband Bernard. They were married on July 6, 1946, at the St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charles City. To this union four children were born. Janet spent most of her life as a homemaker taking care of her family. She resided in Charles City for the rest of her life and was a member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Janet enjoyed sewing and quilting. She also liked to play cards and especially liked to play cribbage. Janet and her family would often take trips to visit other family in Nebraska and Audubon.

Those left to cherish her memory include four children: Julie (John) Sivill, of Lakeside, California, Mark Schwartzkopf, of Charles City, Sarah (Dennis) Nixt, of Humboldt, and John (Lynne) Schwartzkopf, of Charles City; six grandchildren: Eric Sivill, Andrew Sivill, Erin (Andrew) Pedersen, Emily (Jay) Lynch, Jesi Pellymonter, and Lee Schwartzkopf; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard Schwartzkopf and parents.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt Street, Charles City. (641) 228-4211.

Charles City Press - 11 FEB 2013

Lorrine J. Bennor

Lorrine J. Bennor, 84 of Nashua, died Sunday, February 10, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital, Charles City.

Arrangements are pending at Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home, Nashua. Online condolences for Lorrine's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com, (641) 435-4134.

Charles City Press - 11 FEB 2013

Judy Bluhm

Judy Bluhm, 67, of Charles City, died Saturday, February 9, 2013, at Springdale Village in Mesa, Arizona.

Arrangements are pending with the Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, (641) 228-2323, www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - Feb. 12, 2013

Dustin Menholt

DECATUR, MICHIGAN - Dustin Menholt, 45, died at his home in Decatur, on Sunday, February 10, 2013.

He was born on March 1, 1967, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and graduated from Charles City in 1985. He was very skilled, enjoyed working on engines and liked to race cars and ride his Harley. He will be remembered for his honesty, loyalty, generosity and his commitment to his friends and family. He was truly an individual who wore his heart on his sleeve and made the most out of life.

Members of his family include his father, Bob; three sisters: Deb (Carl) Suhr, DarCi Hoeltzner and DanDi (Nick) Matson; nieces: Heather Ulrich, Mamie Young and Stephanie Antles.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Pearl; a nephew, Kody Chodur; and a niece, Ashley Chodur.

An open house to honor his life will be held on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 5-7 p.m. at the Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler & Thompson, in Paw Paw, Michigan, 1-800-822-7594. Burial will be in Canton, South Dakota.

Please visit his personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a favorite memory or photo of him and sign his online guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

Charles City Press - Feb. 12, 2013

Arthur "Artie" Hemann

OSAGE - Arthur "Artie" Hemann, 81, of Osage, died Monday, February 11, 2013, at Mitchell County Regional Health Center Hospice Unit in Osage.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 14, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage with Msgr. John Hemann officiating. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery with military honors at the grave by Osage American Legion Post 278. Visitation will be held from 4-7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage with a Knights of Columbus Rosary at 7:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers that memorials be directed to Sacred Heart Church in Osage, Handicap Accessibility Fund.

Artie is survived by his wife, Darlene Hemann of Osage; his children: Russell (Cheryl) Hemann of Dubuque, Nancy (Jon) Mc-Sweeney of Owatonna, Minnesota, Gary (Jolene) Hemann of Osage, Kevin (Sara) Hemann of Charles City, and Gregg (Lisa) Hemann of Atoka, Tennessee: grandchildren: Julie (Brian) Jasken of Vadnais Heights, Minnesota, Crystal (Will) Thomas of Ankeny, Michelle (Kevin) Kruize of Owatonna, Minnesota, Marcia (Joe) Hanssen of Waukesha, Wisconsin, Jed (Jen) Hemann of Waukon, Jesse (Stacy) Hemann of Lonsdale, Minnesota, Joe (Nicole) Hemann of Des Moines, Dr. Luke (Lisa) Hemann of Peosta, Jake (Jen) Hemann of Osage, Tony Hemann of Charles City, Ryan Hemann of Charles City, Alyson Hemann of Atoka, Tennessee, and Jacque Hemann and fiance' Blake Garren of Memphis, Tennessee; 11 great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters: Ray (Beatrice) Hemann of Adams, Minnesota, Kenneth Hemann of Dubuque, Angela Werner of Osage, Kenneth (Anne) Hemann of St. Ansgar and Theresa (George) Theis of Plymouth; as well as sisters-in-law: Kate Hemann, Joan Hemann and Norraine Hemann, all of Osage.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Cletus, John and Bob Hemann.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com. Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, (641) 732-3706, is in charge of the arrangements.

Charles City Press - Feb. 12, 2013

William "Bill" Koehler

#1:

Date Of Birth: October 29, 1950
Date Of Death: February 11, 2013

William "Bill" Koehler, 62, of Rockford, died suddenly Monday, February 11, 2013 at Mercy Medical Center Mason City.

Funeral services for Bill Koehler will be held Friday, 10:30 a.m. February 15, 2013 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Charles City. Pastor Martha Bennett will officiate. Interment will be in West Saint Charles Cemetery, rural Charles City.

Friends may call Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Hauser Funeral Home. Visitation will continue an hour prior to the service Friday, at the church.

Bill Koehler was born October 29, 1950 and graduated from RRMR High School in 1968. He farmed all his life, but will be remembered for his big heart. He loved people and always put their wants and needs ahead of his own. He will be missed by his family and his countless friends.

He is survived by his parents, Don and Liz Koehler, Rockford; sister Linda (Joel) Miller of Rudd, and nephews, Josh and Jake Miller.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be given to the charities of their choice.

Hauser Funeral Home website - 13 FEB 2013

#2:

William "Bill" Koehler

William "Bill" Koehler, 62, of Rockford, died suddenly Monday, February 11, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral services for Bill Koehler will be held Friday, 10:30 a.m. February 15 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Charles City. Pastor Martha Bennett will officiate. Interment will be in West Saint Charles Cemetery, rural Charles City.

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

Bill Koehler was born October 29, 1950, and graduated from R-RMR High School in 1968. He farmed all his life, but will be remembered for his big heart. He loved people and always put their wants and needs ahead of his own. He will be missed by his family and his countless friends.

He is survived by his parents, Don and Liz Koehler, Rockford; a sister, Linda (Joel) Miller, of Rudd, and nephews Josh and Jake Miller.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be given to the charities of their choice.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Charles Citv Press - 14 FEB 2013

Mary Margaret (Brown)(Adley) LaBayre

#1:

Date Of Birth: December 31, 1913
Date Of Death: February 12, 2013

Mary LaBayre, 99, of Charles City, died Tuesday, February 12, 2013, at Cedar Health in Charles City.

Funeral services for Mary LaBayre will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Hauser Funeral Home. Pastor Jane Keel of Messiah Lutheran Church will officiate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens rural Charles City. The family will greet friends an hour prior to the service.

Mary Margaret Brown Adley LaBayre was born December 31, 1913, in New York, New York, the daughter of George and Isabelle Brown. She attended school in Austin, Minnesota. On October 17, 1936, she married Walter Adley at Red Wing, Minnesota. To this union a daughter Mary was born. Walter died on June 4, 1942 and daughter Mary died in 1963.

Mary married Harold LaBayre on November 1, 1947. Harold died on January 31, 1995. She was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church. Mary enjoyed fishing and traveling.

Living family members include a son, Allen LaByre; a sister-in-law, Virginia Hoy of Nashua; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands; daughter; and a granddaughter.

Hauser Funeral Home website, 2/14/2013

#2:

Mary Margaret Brown Adley LaBayre

Mary LaBayre, 99, of Charles City, died Tuesday, February 12, 2013, at Cedar Health in Charles City.

Funeral services for Mary LaBayre will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Hauser Funeral Home. Pastor Jane Keel of Messiah Lutheran Church will officiate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens rural Charles City.

The family will greet friends an hour prior to the service.

Mary Margaret Brown Adley LaBayre was born December 31, 1913, in New York, N. Y., the daughter of George and Isabelle (Fuller) Brown. She attended school in Austin, Minn. On Oct. 17, 1936, she married Walter Adley at Red Wing, Minn. To this union a daughter Mary was born. Walter died on June 4, 1942, and daughter Mary died in 1963. Mary married Harold LaBayre on November 1, 1947. Harold died on Jan. 31, 1995. She was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church. Mary enjoyed fishing and traveling.

Living family members include a son, Allen LaByre; a sister-inlaw, Virginia Hoy, of Nashua; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, daughter and a granddaughter.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - 14 FEB 2013

Marilyn Patricia Lindell

GREENE, IOWA - Marilyn P. Lindell, 85, of Greene, died Wednesday, February 13, 2013, at the Liebe Care Center in Greene.

Arrangements are incomplete at Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St. in Greene, (641) 823-4457, www.reidsfuneralchapel.com.

Charles City Press - 14 FEB 2013

Sylvia L. Schafer

GREENE, IOWA - Sylvia L. Schafer, age 81 of Greene, died Monday morning, February 11, 2013, at the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, February 16, 2013, at St. John United Church of Christ-Pleasant Hill, in rural Nashua, with Pastor Laura Hucke presiding.

Interment will be in Willow Lawn Cemetery, Plainfield, with Dale Schneider, Mellissa Schneider, Scott Schilling, Michael Polthast, Jennifer Polthast and Chad Hinz serving as pallbearers.

Friends may greet the family 4-7 p.m. Friday, February 15, 2013, at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Online condolences for Sylvia's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com Sylvia Lydia Schafer was born January 5, 1932, on the Schilling family farm near Plainfield in rural Bremer County, the daughter of Louis and Lydia (Scheidecker) Schilling. She received her education in Plainfield and graduated from the Plainfield High School in 1950. It was while she was in high school she met the love of her life, Lyle Schafer.

Lyle had been enlisted in the United States Navy when the couple were married at St. John UCC Church-Pleasant Hill, on Sept. 26, 1953. The couple lived a short time in California until Lyle was honorably discharged at which time they began farming near Charles City. In 1960, the couple moved into Charles City and then in 1964 made the permanent move to their current home in Greene.

While raising her three sons, Sylvia worked for many years at Dralle's Department Store in Greene. She was an active member at St. John UCC Church having sung in the choir and served with the women's fellowship. She enjoyed needle work, making quilts for her grandchildren and sewing. She had a passion for her flower garden and loved growing roses. She was also a member of the Greene Legion Auxiliary. The precious moments she had were when she could spend time with family and she will be remembered by them as the picture-taker. Sylvia and Lyle also enjoyed many trips to see family in Colorado.

Survivors include her husband, Lyle; three sons: Calvin (Jani) Schafer, of Bailey, Colorado, Merlin (Tammy Hain) Schafer, of Mason City and James (Corey Head) Schafer, of San Francisco; one brother, Frederick Schilling, of Waverly; eight grandchildren: Merrille (Chad) Hinz, Cherilyn Schafer, Bill Schafer, Aubrie (Isaiah Egan) Schafer, Toby Schafer, Daniel Schafer, Ricky Schafer and Brooke Hain; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Charles City Press - 14 FEB 2013

Raymond Bailey, Jr.

Raymond Bailey, Jr., of Ionia, Iowa, died Monday, February 18, 2013, at the Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

Funeral services for Raymond "Red" Bailey Jr. will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, at the Hauser Funeral Home. Pastor Jane Keel of Messiah Lutheran Church will officiate. Interment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, rural Charles City. Full Military Honors will be conducted by the Charles City Ceremonial Unit.

Friends may call from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Hauser Funeral Home, and an hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

Raymond "Red" Bailey Jr. was born May 1, 1930, in Charles City, the son of Raymond Sr. and Vivian (Dugan) Bailey. He attended Charles City High School. On Sept. 7, 1951, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, he was united in marriage to Esther Pruessner. Raymond proudly served our country during the Korean Conflict. After his military service, Raymond returned to Waterloo where he sold cars, worked in his scrapyard, and farmed. He enjoyed bartering, buying, selling and trading, fishing on his pond and bird watching. Raymond was a member of the VFW, American Legion and the Hunting and Fishing Club.

Left to celebrate his life are his children: Debra (Ryan) DeGroot, of Fairbank, Douglas (Ramona) Bailey, of Charles City, and Diana (Dennis) Freese, of Charles City; grandchildren: Shawn (Chad) Mc-Garvey, Sheila (Justin) Heinze, Sarah (Joe) Bantz and Dylan (Nicole) Freese; great-grandchildren: Devon and Morgan McGarvey, Brandon and Emily Dewiese, Kaylee, Dakota, and Drake Heinze.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents; wife Esther, on June 20, 1998; and two sisters, Joann Boggess and Peggy Chesnut.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - 19 FEB 2013

Merna L. Slack

Merna L. Slack, 88, of Waterloo, Iowa, died at the Lakeview Landing of Friendship Village on Thursday, February 14, 2013, of natural causes.

She was born on November 17, 1924, in Nashua, Iowa, the daughter of Frank L. and Clara L. Reese Richards. She graduated from Nashua High School in 1942 and attended Normal School Training while in high school. She taught one year in Richland Township.

She married Robert W. Slack on September 26, 1943, at the First United Methodist Church in Nashua. Merna then assisted him on their farm in Chickasaw County for 30 years and worked at Salisbury Laboratory in Charles City for 6 of those years. After moving to Waterloo, she worked as a cashier at the HyVee on Byron St. for 14-1/2 years, retiring in 1989.

Merna was a member of the Kimball Ave. United Methodist Church and the Women's Society.

She is survived by her two daughters: Sharon Longhorn and her husband Gary, of Gilbertville, and Linda Ferguson and her husband William, of Omaha; five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren: Leslie (Jeff) Balvanz, of Gilbertville and their children: Adam (Ashley) Arnold and their daughter Rylie Grady and Jessica Arnold and her son Joseph Hogan; Janel (Joel) Vandermore, of Geneseo, Ill., and their daughters: Emma and Mia Vandemore; Sandra (Chuck West) Longhorn, of Little Rock, Ark.; Marta (David Drum) Ferguson, of Columbia, Mo., and their daughter Clara Faye Ferguson Drum; and Matthew (Holly) Ferguson, of Omaha and their children: Benjamin, Hannah and Mallory Ferguson. Merna is also survived by her two brothers and their wives: Clinton and Betty Richards, of Charles City, and Franklin and Joan Richards of Dallas, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sister Geneva Williams.

Funeral services were held on Monday, Feb. 18. at the Kimball Ave United Methodist Church, with burial at Memorial Park Cemetery, Waterloo.

Memorials may be made to Kimball Ave. United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by Locke Funeral Home, (319) 233-6138. Condolences may be left at www.LockeFuneralHome.com.

Charles City Press - 19 FEB 2013

Mary Lou and Delbert Dale Laudner

#1:

Mary Lois (Wilson) Laudner of El Cajon, California, and formerly of Charles City, Iowa, died November 24, 2012.

Delbert Dale "Scratch" Laudner, of El Cajon, California, and formerly of Greene, died January 23, 2013.

They both were philanthropists and donated land near Rockford to the Rockford High School and created a nature preserve west of the Fossil Park in Rockford that they donated to Floyd County.

Memorial Services were held in California on February 16, 2013. Final inurnment will be at a later date in Riverside Cemetery, Rockford.

Charles City Press - 19 FEB 2013

#2:

Mary Lois Laudner

Mary Lois (Wilson) Laudner of El Cajon, Calif., died November 24, 2012. She was born September 20, 1924, in Charles City, Iowa, the daughter of May (Holtz) and Milton Wilson.

Mary graduated from Mason City High school and then achieved a bachelor's and a master's degree from San Diego State College. In 1944, Mary was a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, and was an English and journalism teacher at El Capitan H.S. in the 1960s. Mary Lou attended Holy Trinity Catholic Church in El Cajon.

Her nephew, Van Wilson of Austin, Texas, survives Mary Lou.

Her sister Maude and brother Melvin and parents May and Milton Wilson preceded her in death.

Delbert Dale "Scratch" Laudner of El Cajon, California, died January 23, 2013.

Delbert was born on March 6, 1924, in Greene, Iowa, the son of Jonathan and Ruby Laudner. He graduated from the Rockford High School and then was employed as a machinist at Oliver Farm and Equipment Co. prior to joining the Army in February 1943.

Delbert served in the Army Air Corp during World War II and flew 36 combat missions as a tail gunner over the Balkans and Germany. After being shot down in a B-17, he spent 10 months as a prisoner of war in Poland and Germany, until his release at the war's end. Delbert received several military commendations including four Bronze Stars, Air Medal, Distinguished Unit Badge, Victory Metal and the Good Conduct Metal. When he was hitchhiking home unknown to two of his sisters, they picked him up to give him a ride outside of Mason City. What a reunion that was. Delbert was honorably discharged from his service November 14, 1945, with the rank of staff sergeant.

He earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering at San Diego State College and worked on dam projects in Tanzania, Nigeria and Puerto Rico in the 1960s and 1970s. He worked as an inspector for the county of San Diego and as an independent contractor. Delbert retired from the Otay Water District as the operations manager, and then served two elected terms on the Otay Water District Board. Delbert was a member of the Ex-POW's Group and the Elks Lodge.

Mary Lou and Delbert were united in marriage on July 7, 1943, in Minnesota. On July 25, 1945, they were reunited in a Catholic Church service in Washington, D.C. They both lived in Minnesota and Los Angeles in the late 1940s before settling in El Cajon. While Delbert was working on his dam projects, they kept their home in El Cajon. They traveled extensively and attended several POW reunions in Europe.

Delbert loved his gardens and took much pride in maintaining a beautiful lawn. Mary Lou was a wonderful cook and was known to can some pretty tasty vegetables from the garden. They both were philanthropists and donated land near Rockford, Iowa, to the Rockford High School and created a nature preserve west of the Fossil Park in Rockford that they donated to Floyd County.

Many summers they lived in Clear Lake where they owned several different properties, so they could be close to family and friends. Mary Lou and Delbert had a great love for each other and died one month and 29 days apart.

Three sisters, Wava Uker, Sandra (Daisey) West, Diane Massee, and one brother, Larry Laudner, survive Delbert.

His parents; three sisters: Lois Schulz, Lorraine Van den Brand, and Maxine Fullerton; and three brothers: Ronald, Marvin (Pete), and his twin brother Dallas Laudner, preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held in California on Saturday, February 16, 2013. Final Inurnment will be at a later date in Riverside Cemetery, Rockford, Iowa.

Source: Mason City Globe Gazette, 2/19/2013

Melissa S. (Holt) Moore

MASON CITY, IOWA - Melissa S. (Holt) Moore, 33, of Mason City, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, Saturday, February 16, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 23, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, with Pastor Ed Bard officiating. A gathering of friends and family will begin at 10 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. Inurnment will be held at later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Melissa S. Moore memorial fund in care of the family. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, IA 50401, (641) 4230924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Charles City Press - 19 FEB 2013

Vance "Wezer" Krebsbach

Vance "Wezer" Krebsbach, 61, of Plover, Wisconsin, passed away February 17, 2013, at St. Joseph Hospital in Marshfield, Wisconsin.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Vance will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 21, at St. Bronislava Catholic Church. Rev. James Trempe will officiate. Burial with full military honors will be in the parish cemetery. Friends and relatives will gather to share memories from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 20, at the Plover-Shuda Funeral Home with Rosary prayed at 7 p.m.

"Wezer" was born April 19, 1951, in Osage, the son of Raymond and Ardella Krebsbach. He graduated from St. Ansgar High School and then entered the United States Army on October 8, 1969. He served his country as a Sergeant and served in Europe. He earned the National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged on Aug. 4, 1971. He returned to Meyer and began farming. Vance married Joyce Smith on July 8, 1972, in Stacyville. The couple settled in Meyer where he continued farming. The family moved to Plover in 1987, and Vance began working at the Kimberly-Clark paper mill.

He was currently employed at Central Sands Napa in Plainfield, Wisconsin. Vance was a member of the St. Bronislava Holy Name, American Legion Post 543 and the Knights of Columbus of Plover. He enjoyed joyriding in his '53 Ford pickup, teaching and passing on his knowledge of farming and mechanical skills to his sons, and being with his family especially his grandchildren.

Vance is survived by his wife Joyce; and their children: Cory (Dan Michel), of Chicago, Michael, of Plover, Todd (Kelley Raykowski), of Amherst Junction, Wis., and Ray (Melinda Raflik), of Stevens Point, Wis.; three grandchildren: Tony, Colton and Ava; his mother, Ardella, of Adams, Minn.; sisters LaVonne (Robert) Hetrick and Jane (Mark) McKinley; brothers Fred (Marcia) and Curt (Judy); and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by father Raymond. He will be missed by many family members and friends.

Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.shudafuneral.com.

Charles City Press - 19 FEB 2013

Renee Udyell Parker

MARBLE ROCK, IOWA - Funeral Services for Renee Udyell Parker, 80, of Marble Rock will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, February 19, 2013, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Marble Rock with Pastor Bob Scheurer officiating. Burial will be in the Hillside Cemetery, Marble Rock. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Monday, February 18, at Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St. Greene and will continue one hour before services on Tuesday at the church.

Renee Udyell Hencken was born on January 14, 1933, in rural Butler County the daughter of Leonard and Madelin (Bryan) Hencken and died Saturday, February 16, 2013, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City. She received her education in public schools graduating from Sumner High School in 1950. Following graduation she attended Iowa Teachers College in Cedar Rapids.

On August 25, 1955, Renee was united in marriage to Kenneth "Mike" Parker in Austin, Minn. This union was blessed with two children, Pam and Philip.

Renee was a fourth grade teacher in Greene for a few years. She devoted most of her time, however, to raising her family and chores on the farm. She was a very hard worker, an expert knitter, and an excellent cook. She enjoyed reading, loved flowers, the woods and especially, hunting for Morel mushrooms. Renee spent many hours babysitting her grandchildren, all of whom she treasured.

Renee was a faithful member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Marble Rock. She was the church piano player for 50 years, served as a counsel member, and taught Sunday school and Bible school. Renee was also a member of the Marble Rock Library Board.

Living family members include: one daughter, Pam (Marc) Clough of Marble Rock; one son, Philip (Darla) Parker of Rockford; grandchildren: Christopher Staudt, Marble Rock, Jordan Staudt, Iowa City, Michaela Staudt, Marble Rock, Wesley Parker, San Antonio, Texas, Erika Parker, Rockford, Kylie Parker, San Antonio, and Kalen Parker, Rockford; two step-grandchildren, two step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Janice Hencken, Huntington, Ind.; many nieces and nephews.

Renee was preceded in death by her parents, and one sister, Avis Hinrickson.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 207 S. Main St., P.O. Box 84, Marble Rock, IA.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St., Greene.

Charles City Press - 19 FEB 2013

Duane Charles Boyd

Duane Boyd, 92, of Charles City, died Monday, Feb. 18, 2013, at the Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

Funeral services for Duane Boyd will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, at Trinity United Methodist Church. Pastor Jim Beranek will officiate. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery in Charles City. There will be a flag presentation by the Charles City Ceremonial Unit.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday and at the church an hour prior to the service.

Duane Charles Boyd was born May 7, 1920, at Marble Rock, the son of David and Maude (Wilhelm) Boyd. He graduated from Charles City High School in 1938. Duane proudly served in the United States Army during World War II. On Aug. 6, 1943, he was united in marriage to Genevieve Fox at Waynesville, Mo. They farmed in the Charles City area all their lives. Duane was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where he held various offices, the American Legion, Heritage Club, Cattlemen's Association for 50 years, was the first Master Pork Producer in Floyd County, Iowa Master Farmer and held the office of Secretary of Iowa State Pork Producers for five years. He enjoyed welding, carpentry, grilling, cooking, vegetable gardening, reading and traveling. Duane always looked forward to sharing life's experiences with his family, especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who always looked forward to his cookies and banana bread.

Living family members include his wife, Genevieve Boyd, of Charles City; a daughter, Karen (Steve) Rankin, of Sheboygan, Wis.; a son, Leland (Kristeen) Boyd, of Charles City; five grandchildren: Eric (Cheri) Rankin, Adam (Alissa) Rankin, Heidi (Aaron) Duke, Dr. Angela (Greg) Townsend, and Melissa Boyd and partner, Wendy Haroldson; nine great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law, Harry (Dixie) Fox, of Charles City; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Glenn, James and Kenneth Boyd; and a sister, Doris Marth.

In lieu of flowers memorials will be directed by the family, The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - 19 FEB 2013

Helen Jeanette (Zastrow) Noah

#1:

Helen J. Noah, 92, of Charles City, died Tuesday, February 19, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center, Mason City.

Memorial services for Helen J. Noah, will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, February 23, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Charles City. Pastor Jim Beranek will officiate. Inurnment will be at a later date.

Friends may call an hour prior to the service at the church.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Charles City Press - 20 FEB 2013

#2:

Helen J. Noah

Date Of Birth: June 28, 1920
Date Of Death: February 19, 2013

Helen J. Noah, 92, Charles City, Iowa, died Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at Mercy Medical Center, Mason City, Iowa.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 23, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 601 Milwaukee St., Charles City. There will be a visitation at the church one hour prior to the service.

Helen Jeanette Zastrow was born in Waverly, Iowa on June 28, 1920, the daughter of R. W. and Elma Zastrow. She graduated from Charles City High School in 1938 and from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech Pathology in 1942. She married Keith Noah on September 22, 1943 in Fresno California.

Helen taught Speech Pathology in Manitowoc, Wisconsin from the time she graduated until her marriage. She spent the remainder of her working career as a wife, homemaker, mother and travel agent. In addition to caring for her family Helen's favorite activity was travel. Her travels included trips in the United States and to Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa.

Her many civic activities included Brownie and Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, 19th Amendment Society, American Association of University Women, Charles City Arts Council, City Improvement Association, Women's Cemetery Association and Hospital Auxiliary. She was also active in P.E.O., Chapter CY and Trinity United Methodist Church.

Helen is survived by her children Ron (Toni) Noah, Charles City, Steve (Jane) Noah, Oskaloosa, Rick (Cindy) Noah, Charles City, and Nancy (Dirk) Tyler, Evergreen, CO; grandchildren Craig (Marianne Raub) Noah, Krista Noah, Mariah (Aaron) Collmann, Noelle (Aran Brosnan) Noah, Erica Noah, Kelsey Noah, Brittany (Dan) Gibeau, and Tucker Tyler as well as great-grandchildren Delaney Smith, Dillon Smith, Eveline Noah and Parker Collmann. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Virginia Z. and James F. Smith.

Memorials may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church, Charles City, Iowa or to a charity of the donor's choice. The family would like to thank the Eastern Iowa Cremation Society of Cedar Rapids for their services.

The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of local arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com .

Hauser Funeral Home website - 20 FEB 2013

Janice (Walker) Wilmoth

PALESTINE, TEXAS - Janice (Walker) Wilmoth, 60, of Palestine, Texas, and formerly of Rudd, Iowa, died Sunday, February 17, 2013.

Memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 21, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. at the Rudd United Methodist Church, Rudd.

Mason City Globe Gazette, 2/20/2013

Celeste Mae Kobliska

Celeste Mae Kobliska, 86, of Arlington, Virginia, and formerly of Alta Vista, Iowa, died on Sunday, February 17, 2013, at her home with her family at her side.

Visitation will be on Sunday, February 24, from 47 p.m. with a 4:30 p.m. Rosary at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in Elma. Visitation will continue at the funeral home one hour prior to the service on Monday. Friends may leave condolences for Celeste's family at www.conwaymarkhamfh. com.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 25, at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Fr. Steve Garner celebrating. Burial will be in St. Patrick's Cemetery at St. Cecelia.

Celeste was born July 19, 1926, in Deerfield, to Joseph and Anna (Smith) Kobliska. A long-time Arlington resident, Celeste was the cofounder and president of WOI, Inc., a shared tenant facilities office rental business that operated in Washington, D.C. Prior to that, she worked as an office manager at the Watergate. Before coming to the Washington area, she lived and worked in Minneapolis, Houston and Cedar Rapids. An intrepid traveler throughout her life, she enjoyed numerous trips to destinations in Mexico, Europe, Asia, North Africa, Australia and around the United States, and once emerged from retirement to pursue two of her favorite activities -- business and foreign travel -- by spending several months managing an office in Hong Kong.

She also enjoyed spending time with and sharing in the activities of her "adopted grandchildren," grandnephews Christopher and Andrew Piemonte of Arlington.

Celeste is survived by one sister Marie Galligan, of Waterloo; and brothers, Walter Kobliska, of Charles City; and Kenneth Kobliska, of Minneapolis, Minn. Aunt of nieces Mary Kay Piemonte, Arlington, Virginia; Denise Streich, Charles City; Marge Loes, Mason City, and Sheryl Ostlund, Des Moines; nephews Don Galligan, Anaheim, California; Joseph Galligan, Brea, Calif.; Daniel Kobliska, New Hampton; Joseph Kobliska, Albuquerque, N.M, James Kobliska, Alta Vista; Steven Kobliska, Alta Vista; Michael Kobliska, Moville; and David Kobliska, Cedar Falls. She was the great-aunt of many grandnieces and grandnephews, whose lives and careers she took great pleasure in following through the hundreds of photos displayed in her kitchen "office."

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Leo Kobliska and nephew Dennis Tolliver.

Charles City Press - 21 FEB 2013

Ruth E. McGrath

Ruth E. McGrath, 80, of New Hampton died Monday, February 25, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 1, at Holy Family Parish - St. Joseph Center with burial in Calvary Cemetery, both in New Hampton.

Friends may greet the family on Thursday at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton, (641) 394-4334, at times to be announced. Online condolences for Ruth's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Charles City Press - 26 FEB 2013

Dorothy Marie Lockie

Dorothy Marie Lockie, 91, of Osage, Iowa, died Tuesday, February 26, 2013, at the Faith Home in Osage.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 2, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage, with Msgr. John Hemann officiating. Burial will be in the Osage Cemetery. Public visitation will be held from 9:30-10 a.m. Saturday at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.

Dorothy was born April 3, 1921, in Riceville, Iowa, the daughter of Francis and Martha (Dettmer) Regan. She graduated from Riceville High School in 1940. On Sept. 19, 1944, she married Charles W. Lockie in Riceville. They lived in the Osage area, and later lived in Arizona, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Austin, Minnesota. She enjoyed painting, music, singing, ballroom dancing and horse riding.

Dorothy is survived by her son, Michael (Janet) Lockie of Austin, Minn.; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Judy (Bill) Loucks of Manhattan, Kan.; and sister-in-law, Betty Regan of Charles City.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles Lockie in 2007; her daughter, Michelle Hodina in 2007; and brothers, Vernon and James Regan.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, (641) 732-3706, is in charge of the arrangements.

Charles City Press - 27 FEB 2013

Milan Roswell VanKleek

A man with a smile on his face, always.

Milan "Mike/Van" Roswell VanKleeck entered this world on June 18, 1920, in the small Iowa town of Bassett. He was raised on a farm by his father Burle and mother Claribel, where he became quite adept at farming, agriculture, raising livestock, machinery and mechanical repairs, and construction. He met his sweetheart, Arlene (De-Bettignies), at a neighboring farm during an oat threshing event. She later became his wife and that beautiful union celebrated 70 happy years of togetherness last October.

Mike made many lifetime friendships while serving in the Navy as an Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class during World War II. What a gentleman and a friend to all. He never met a stranger and he always had a smile on his face.

Mike was also an arborist and ran his own company, Van's Tree Service in Charles City. In 1963, he moved his family to Denver, Colorado, where he worked and retired from DC Trucking. He was a member of the Teamsters Union and an Honorary Member of the Knights of Columbus.

This gentle, full of love, and overly generous man fathered five daughters: Sheryl Sadler, Sandra (Dave) Thompson, Sue (Dave) Hiegel, Kathlyn (Jimi) Ruck, Jr., and Linda (Lee) Valverde, along with one son, James.

He was a loving grandfather and teacher to Shain, Shelley, Corinne, Stacey, Laurie, JerriLynn, Ami, Carly, Nate, Kallie, Devon, Lindsay, Dylan, Rod, Julie, Michelle, Chris, Matt, Andy (T),Tracy and Andy (R); a loving great-grandfather to Matthew, Madison, Grace, Faith, Darian, Henry, Brittany, Kara, Jessie, Ashley, Corey, Kole,Koen, Gehrig, Alfie, Stevie and Morgan; and loving great-great grandfather to Xavara and Jace.

After 92 years on earth, Mike passed peacefully on February 22, 2013, under the tender care of Evercare Hospice and was surrounded by family throughout his final journey.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Burle and Claribel-VanKleeck; his siblings: Garland VanKleeck and Shirley (Van-Kleeck) Marvin, and his only son, James Milan VanKleeck.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made in Mike's memory to: Evercare Hospice of Denver, 6455 Yosemite St. 6th Floor, Englewood, Co 80111. Condolences can be shared at hora cares.com.

Charles City Press - 27 FEB 2013

Betsy Jean Yorgason

Betsy Jean Yorgason was born January 17, 1946, in Greybull, Wyoming, to James Scott McNiven and Betty Gene Morrow McNiven.

Betsy attended school in Burlington, Wyo., and graduated from Burlington High School in 1965. While attending school she learned a very strong work ethic by working on the family farm. That work ethic remained a part of her up until her final day. She attended business college in Bakersfield, Calif. after graduation from high school. Betsy then moved on to Washington D.C., and was the secretary at the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the agent in charge of the Washington D.C. field office. She was a part of cases such as the "Patti Hurst" investigation. She gave up this career in interest of marriage and starting a family.

On May 31, 1973, Betsy married Francis Leland Yorgason in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Their first child, James Joseph Yorgason, was born March 13, 1974, in Pocatello, Idaho. LeeAnn Yorgason followed two years later on January 17, 1976, in Powell, Wyoming. Their final daughter, Susan Michelle Yorgason, was born February 12, 1979, in Mason City.

Betsy lived for service, especially where children and church were involved. She operated a daycare out of her home in Charles City for 25 years. Much of her pride and joy came from this opportunity to teach and care for these children along with her own. She served her church and various communities in many different capacities. Along with service she had a lifelong love of music and taught herself to play the piano.

Betsy is survived by the love-of-her life and eternal companion, Francis Leland Yorgason of Perry, Utah; a son, James (Rossana) Yorgason, of Pleasant View, Utah; daughters LeeAnn (Norman) Nix, of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Susan of Farmington, Utah. Betsy is also survived by two grandchildren, Noelle Krystine and Nicholas James Yorgason.

On behalf of her family, a special thanks to Drs. Lance Bryce and Brian Dawson, Advocate hospice staff, especially RN Misti and CNA Lola. Special friends and nurses Callie Johnson and Sunshine, who were so close in the end, and who all gave her impeccable care.

Funeral services will be held at the Perry, Utah, Stake Center, 685 W. 2250 S Perry, UT 84302 at noon on March 1, 2013. A viewing will be held prior to the service at 10:45-11:45 a.m. to meet and greet the family. Services are under the direction of Serenicare Funeral Home of Providence and Ogden, Utah.

Charles City Press - 28 FEB 2013

Peter Kelley

Peter T. Kelley, 75, of Ruskin, Florida, passed away after a brief illness on February 21, 2013. Peter was the father-in-law of Charles City native Emily (Sisson) Kelley, now of Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, March 22, at 1 p.m. at National Cremation and Burial, 308 College Ave., East, Ruskin, Florida, 33570. A Memorial Mass will take place on Saturday, March 23, at 10 a.m., at St. Anne Roman Catholic Church, 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin, Florida 33570.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to LifePath Hospice, 3725 Upper Creek Dr. Ruskin, Fla. 33573.

Charles City Press - 28 FEB 2013