Mrs. Corinne Kahl dies at 83

Published: Thursday, February 2, 2012

Mrs. Corinne Kahl, 83, of Burlington died Wednesday, Feb.1, 2012, at her home under the care of Iowa Hospice.

Born Feb. 4, 1928 in New Hampton, she was the daughter of Dr. Clyde Smith and Dr. LorettoMcKeagon. On August 31, 1990 she married Ron Kahl.

Mrs. Kahl came from a pioneering Iowa family in New Hampton and was a founding member of the Burlington Art Center and the Society of Great River Poets.

Mrs. Kahl was of the Catholic faith.

Survivors include her husband, Ron Kahl of Burlington; five stepchildren, Rudolf of South Carolina, Alice, Ann and Ronald Jr. all of Georgia and Becky of New Jersey; two cousins, many nephews, nieces, grand nephews and grand nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters.

There will be no formal visitation or funeral service. Inurnment will be at a later date. According to Mrs. Kahl’s wishes, cremation has been accorded.

Kenneth William Farrell dies at 66

Published: Monday, February 6, 2012

Kenneth William Farrell, age 66 of New Hampton, died Saturday Feb. 4, 2012, at the Country View Care Center in Waterloo,after a lenghtly battle with Parkinson's Disease.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012, at Holy Family Parish – St. Joseph Center, New Hampton with Rev. Mark Osterhaus celebrating the Mass. The pall will be placed on the casket by his daughters and son-in-law, Todd Suhr. Son-in-law, James Neuzil will be the lector. His ten grandchildren will present the offertory gifts.

Interment will be in the New Hampton City Cemetery with John Farrell, Jerry Farrell, Jim Howe, Jim Trainor, Al Hejna and Todd Suhr serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Jack Whalen, Richard Briggs, Larry Braniff, Kevin Sutton, Jim Farrell, Steve Farrell and his grandchildren.

Friends may greet the family 4 – 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012, at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.  Online condolences for Kenny's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com

Kenneth William Farrell was born October 9, 1945, in Charles City, the son of Joseph and Maxine (Marker) Farrell. He grew up in North Washington and attended St. Mary’s Grade School in North Washington through the eighth grade. The Farrell family moved to Charles City where Kenneth finished his education and was a graduate of the Charles City High School Class of 1963. On March 20, 1965, he married Julaine Howe. The couple were blessed with five daughters. Kenneth and Julaine made New Hampton their home where they raised their family. Kenneth began working at John Deere in Waterloo in 1966 and retired after 32 years in 1998.

Kenny’s interests include working on cars, snowmobiling and his passion for stock car racing. Over the years he had numerous wins and track championships. His car number was 78 and he was a legend in the local racing circuit for over 35 years. He also enjoyed driving the support vehicle for all his daughters on RAGBRAI. His wife, Julaine died on Dec. 11, 2010 at the age of 62.

Survivors include five daughters; Shelly (Todd) Suhr of New Hampton, Karri Simpson of Cedar Rapids, Penney (James) Neuzil of Ft. Atkinson, Robyn (Tony) Crawford of New Hampton, Kelley Farrell of Cedar Rapids; ten grandchildren, Dylan Suhr, Levi Suhr, Nolan Hromidko, Brock Hromidko, Rylee Simpson, Paige Nelson, Curtis Nelson, Taylor Neuzil, Ashlee Crawford and Caycee Crawford; his mother, Maxine Farrell of Charles City; two brothers, John Farrell of Charles City, Jerry (Sherry) Farrell of Hudson; two nephews, Jim (Brandi) Farrell of Johnstown, Colo., Steve Farrell of Gooselake; his mother-in-law, Bernadine Howe of Rockford, two brothers-in-law, Dennis (Diane) Howe of Mason City, James (Rhonda) Howe of Rockford; three sisters-in-law, Janelle (Dana) Larson of Rudd, Diane Howe of Rockford, Kathy (Bryan) Hobbs of Rudd.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his father and one nephew, Rodney Farrell.

Melba Evelyn Robinson dies at 97 

Published: Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Melba Evelyn Robinson, 97, of Cresco, died Monday, Feb. 6, 2012, at the Cresco Care Center in Cresco, after a brief stay.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012, at the First Lutheran Church, 920 3rd St. E, Cresco, Iowa. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. preceding services at the First Lutheran Church in Cresco. Burial will take place in the Saude Lutheran Church Cemetery following services. The Lindstrom Funeral Home of Cresco is in charge of arrangements.

She was born September 13, 1914, on a farm in rural Chickasaw County, to Hannah (Natvig) and Theodore Vaala. She attended rural schools and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1932. With Normal Training Prep, she taught at Chickasaw County One Room Schoolhouses from 1932 to 1938, when she married Alfred H. “Fritz” Robinson on November 1, 1938, at the Saude Lutheran Church. They worked together in the dairy business in New Hampton and Jefferson. After Fritz’s death in 1955, she enrolled at the Iowa State Teachers College for two years and also did student teaching at the Iowa State Teachers College campus school. She was then hired as a second grade teacher at Cresco Community Schools where she taught from 1957 to 1981. She enjoyed her students and many student-teachers from Luther, Iowa, UNI and Iowa State.
Melba is survived by one daughter, Marcia A. (Ralph) Congdon of Davenport; two grandsons, Craig R. Congdon of Denver, Colo. and Todd M. Congdon of Bettendorf; compassionate caregiver, Jean Eldridge of Cresco; nephews, niece, grandnephew and grandnieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Orin and Harris Vaala; two sisters Gladys Vaala and Lillian (Dave) Henry.

Memorials may be directed to First Lutheran Church (Cresco), Saude Lutheran Cemetery Fund or Dollars for Scholars.

Melba was a member of CQ (PEO), Clio Club, Loafers Club (New Hampton), Delta Kappa Gamma, and church circles. She enjoyed traveling to Norway, Hawaii and Mexico.

Lowell L. Stolfus dies at 73

Published: Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Lowell L. Stolfus, age 73, of New Hampton, died on Monday, Feb. 6, 2012 at his home.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton with Pastor Kevin Frey officiating. Active casket bearers will include Gerry Mishak, Mark Huegel, Ken Rasing, Steve Murray and Officer Bob Svec. Military rites will be provided by the New Hampton American Legion FaeStine Post 38 and the New Hampton VFW Post 5238. A private family burial at New Hampton Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Visitation will be from 4 - 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Online condolences for Lowell’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Lowell Lawrence Stolfus was born on July 16, 1938 to Barney and Mae (Ingalls) Stolfusin New Hampton. He attended New Hampton Schools. In 1956 he enlisted in the US Air Force and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1960. It was there he earned his GED. After he returned from the service he worked in the construction business for several years. On January 11, 1965 Lowell was married to Linda Mundtin Cedar Falls. The couple made their home in New Hampton where he worked for several local companies until he was employed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. There he worked road maintenance until he retired in 2000, after being employed 21 years. 

Lowell enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, riding motorcycle, wood working, and playing cards. He especially enjoyed spending time with his wife, daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and enjoyed working many years in the concession stand for the New Hampton Booster Club.

Lowell is survived by his wife Linda of 47 years; daughters Lisa Sullivan of Frisco, Texas, Ladine (Rod) Knapp of New Hampton, and Amy (Scott) Honken of Hartley; grandchildren Cameron and Madison Knapp and Victoria Sullivan; sisters Janice Hesse of Sumner, and Darise (Jim) Donat of Maynard; brothers Edward (Val) Stolfus of Sumner, and Richard (Diane) Stolfus Sr. of New Hampton; numerous nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law Joan Stolfus of Odgen, Utah; Helen Stolfus of Fredericksburg, and Shirley Stolfusof Crystal River, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his parents Barney and Mae Stolfus; brothers Herbert StolfusJr, Lyle Stolfus, and identical twin brother Loren Stolfus; and brother-in-law Lavern Hesse.

Robert James Meighan dies at 75

Published: Friday, February 10, 2012

Robert James Meighan, 75 of Phoenix, passed away on Feb. 9, 2012.

Visitation will be held on Monday at Green Acres Mortuary, Scottsdale, Ariz. Funeral services will be on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012, 1 p.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Paradise Valley, Ariz. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Hospice of the Valley or Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

He was born in New Hampton, and has been a resident of Arizona for the past 50 years. Robert is a member of the Masonic Paradise Valley Silver Trowel Lodge 29 and served with the Mounted Patrol in the El ZaribahShrine.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Joan; daughter, Kim; grandson Zachary; and sisters, Dorothy, Beverly and Connie as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Ruby Mae Walton dies at 95

Published: Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Ruby Mae Walton, 95, of Janesville, Wisc., died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012 at Cedar Crest Assisted Living.

A visitation will be held at Schneider, Apfel, Schneider and Schneider Funeral Home on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012 from 4 – 7 p.m. and one hour prior to the 11 a.m. funeral service at First Congregational Church on Friday. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to First Congregational Church, Janesville, or to Agrace Hospice Care, Janesville. A private interment will be held at a later date at Roselawn Memorial Park, Madison. For on-line guestbook and condolences: www.schneiderfuneraldirectors.com.

She was born in Nashua, on Mar. 30, 1916, the daughter of Gilbert E. and Delia M. (Brooks) Tracy. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and married Clifford “Ted” Walton on June 21, 1937, in Madison. He preceded her in death in 2006. She retired in 1977 from the Janesville Gazette newsroom.

Ruby was a member of First Congregational UCC. She was also a member of Daughters of the American Revolution, Janesville Area Writers Club, Wisconsin Regional Writers Association and Milton Grange. She held local, county, state and national Grange offices. In 1973, she and Ted represented the National Grange on a two-month tour of India sponsored by Farmers and World Affairs. Ruby was a Janesville 4-H leader and member of 5-H Club, PTA, Harmony and Blackhawk Homemakers Clubs, Rock River Community Club, Rock County Committee of Farmers Home Administration, State Joint Committee on Education, and State Seed and Weed Advisory Committee.

Ruby began teaching reminiscence writing in Tucson, Ariz., where she and Ted spent 19 winters, and later at the Janesville Senior Center and Cedar Crest. She is the author of the books Memoirs Made Easy, Wisconsin State Grange 1972-1992 and A Tiger Every Sunday, and editor of Hopscotch, Hobos and Foxholes. She has had articles published in numerous magazines and newspapers.

Ruby received many honors, including UW-Madison College of Agriculture for service to the community, Woman of Distinction by Janesville YWCA, Rotarian Paul Harris Fellow, one of the "50 that Matter" by the Janesville Gazette and the Senior Achievement Award from the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups & Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin.

Ruby enjoyed traveling with Ted to many overseas countries as well as motor homing throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico.

She is survived by four children: Steve (Doris) Walton of Radcliffe, Ky, Jean (David) Schollmeier of Janesville, Andy (Judy) Walton of Edgerton, Judy Walton (Rick Writz) of Lake Tomahawk, Wisc., and a daughter-in-law, JoAnne Walton of Janesville; seven grandchildren: Cliff (HyeKyong) Walton of Navarre, Fla., Sheila Walton of Edgerton, Sandi Walton of Janesville, Bob Walton of Janesville, Amy Schollmeier of Platteville, Chris Schollmeier of Coon Valley, and Adam (Marisa) Walton of Edgerton.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ted; their son, Dick; and her brothers, Harry and Robert Tracy.

The family wishes to extend special thanks for the wonderful care given Ruby by the staff at Cedar Crest and Agrace Hospice Care – your warm, loving care to our mother will always be remembered.

Gerald Vincent “Jerry” Pitz dies at 70

Published: Thursday, February 16, 2012

Gerald Vincent “Jerry” Pitz died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012, at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo,following a lengthy illness.

Funeral Services will be held 10:30 a.m., Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, at the United Methodist Church in Frederika with Pastor Sheryl Hull officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012, at Rettig Funeral Home in Tripoli and for one hour preceding services at the church on Friday. Interment will be at Alcock Cemetery, Frederika, with military rites provided by Brandenburg-Krueger Post 4013, V.F.W. of Tripoli. Memorials may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society or American Lung Association. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.

Gerald Vincent “Jerry” Pitz, son of Leo and Cora Greene Pitz, was born April 2, 1941, at New Hampton. He attended country school in the Ionia area, and received his G.E.D. while serving with the U.S. Army from August of 1958 to June of 1961.

On November 18, 1961, he was united in marriage with Joyce Jordan at Fredericksburg. Jerry was an employee of John Deere & Co. from 1965, until retiring in 1994. He had also worked at Libby’s in Minnesota, Meinerts Creamery in Fredericksburg, Warner Oil Co. of rural Waverly, and also the railroad.

He was seventy years old and was a member of the United Methodist Church in Frederika. He was always interested in horses, as he raced thoroughbreds, enjoyed woodworking, NASCAR, and, most especially, enjoyed spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife, Joyce of Frederika, he is survived by one son, Rich Pitz (Alison Oberbroeckling) of Frederika; one daughter, Chris Pitz (Jim Haynes) of Frederika; five grandchildren, Sarah Hamed, Stephanie Schiel, Justin Limkemann, and Dayton and Cody Pitz; seven great grandchildren, HadyHamed, Ethan Alvarez, Kieran Boldt, Kodyn and JadynSchiel, and Taitym and TeghynLimkemann; and two sisters, Connie (Jim) Blietz of Council Bluffs and Shirley (Bill Brown) Pitz of New Hampton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, LaVerne and Ronald.

Harlan “Shorty” Flatjord dies at 80

Published: Thursday, February 16, 2012

Harlan “Shorty” Flatjord, age 80, of Alta Vista, died on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012 at Hoag Memorial Hospital in New Port Beach, Calif.

Arrangements are being made with Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton. Online condolences may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com.

Mabel D. Longhorn dies at 90

Published: Thursday, February 16, 2012

Mabel D. Longhorn, age 90, of New Hampton, was called to the Lord on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012 at New Hampton Nursing and Rehab Center with her family by her side.

Funeral services for Mabel will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 20, 2012 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton with Jeff Nohaua officiating. Burial will be at New Hampton Cemetery in New Hampton.

Visitation will be held from 1 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home with a 7 p.m. prayer service. Family will arrive at 4 p.m. Visitation will continue at the funeral home one hour prior to the service on Monday. Online condolences for Mabel’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com. Memorials are preferred to the family.

Mabel Doris Longhorn was born on August 21, 1921 to Leon and Olive (Bartlett) Wait in Plainfield. She was a 1938 graduate of Nashua High School. On June 13, 1941, Mabel was united in marriage to James Longhorn at her family’s farm. The couple moved to New Hampton until 1951, when they moved to a farm north of New Hampton. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in New Hampton and served on several church committees. Mabel was a founding committee member of the Little House of Bargains which was sponsored by the Methodist Church and where she spent countless hours. She was also member of the Heritage Club and the Jacksonville Homemaker Club. In 1977, Mabel received the honor of the State Homemaker Award. She and her husband, James also devoted much of their time serving as leaders of their local 4-H chapter.

Mabel’s survivors include her children, Gary (Sharon) Longhorn of Waterloo, Glen (Karen) Longhorn of Hawarden, Roger (Flo) Longhorn of Bredene-Am-Zee, Belgium, Janis Longhorn of Kansas City, Mo. and Roy Longhorn of Waterloo; her sister, Barbara Bigelow of Nashua; 12 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; three nephews and five nieces.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, James on October 6, 2004; her parents; her brother Clark; her sister-in-law, Mildred Wait and brother-in-law, Raymond Bigelow.

Ann Francis Fisher dies at 87

Published: Thursday, February 16, 2012

Ann Francis Fisher, age 87 of Nashua, died Monday evening, Feb. 13, 2012, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Feb.17, 2012, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Nashua with a private family interment held at a later date in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Nashua.

Friends may greet the family 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, 2012, at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua where there will be a 3 p.m. Rosary. Visitation continues 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Online condolences for Ann's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Richard J. Bennett dies at 65

Published: Friday, February 17, 2012

Richard J. Bennett, 65 of Pittsfield, Ill. passed away Wednesday, Feb.15, 2012, at Blessing Hospital, Quincy, Ill.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012 at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Rev. Tom Wilber officiating. Burial will be at the Rushville City Cemetery, Rushville, Ill. where military rites will be conducted by the Beardstown VFW Post 1239. Visitation will be held Friday evening, Feb.17, 2012 from 4 until 8 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield.

Dick was born in Minnetonka, Minn. on Sept. 17, 1946, a son to Cecil Ray and Viola Ann Henning Bennett. He married Pam Estes in the St. Rose Catholic Church in Rushville, Ill. on March 9, 1968, and she survives.

Mr. Bennett was first the Director of Environmental Health in Pike County, Ill., then became Administrator of DeWitt-Piatt County Health Department, Monticello, Ill. and also served as the Director of Environmental Health for DeWitt-Piatt counties.

Mr. Bennett served his country as a Navy Corpsman in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War where he was awarded two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal and Ribbon with Device, the Vietnam Service Medal with Fleet Marine, and the Force Combat Insignia.

Richard received his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Illinois University in Macomb, Ill.. He was a member and Past Commander of the Pike County VFW Post 9513, and a Pittsfield City Alderman from March 1978 until April 1987 and again from May 2011 until February 2012 .

He enjoyed coaching kids in the Pittsfield Punks Softball Girls Team and Boys Little League. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, float trips, and spending time with his grandchildren. He loved his pet dogs, Sassy and Bear.

He is survived by his wife Pam of Pittsfield, a son Shawn (Carly) Bennett of Mohamet, Ill., a daughter, Stephanie (Tom) Reinhardt of Pittsfield, Ill., three brothers, James (Ann) Bennett, of New Hampton, Larry (Debbie) Bennett of Rushville, Ill., Jeff (Teresa) Bennett, of Macomb,Ill., one sister, Barbara (Craig) Schoonover of Canton, Ill., and four grandchildren, Megan and Clayton Reinhardt of Pittsfield, Ill., and Caden and Conner Bennett of Mohamet, Ill.

Mr. Bennett was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials are suggested to the Rushville City Cemetery or the Great River Honor Flight. Condolences may be sent to the family at info@nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

Marlys Baldwin dies at 81

Published: Monday, February 20, 2012

Marlys Baldwin, 81, of Charles City, died Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, at Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

A funeral Mass for Marlys Baldwin will held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Church. Reverend Carl Ries will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday where the Rosary will be prayed at 5 p.m. and a Scriptural Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m.

Marlys Mary Carpenter Baldwin was born February 19, 1930, in Chickasaw County, the daughter of Howard and Anna (Jenn) Carpenter. She graduated from North Washington School. On April 16, 1953, she was united in marriage to Willis Baldwin at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Hampton. Over the years Marlys worked at Eddie’s Mini Mart and in the Relief Office at the Floyd County Court House. Marlys was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. She enjoyed bowling, roller skating in her early years, flowers, bird watching, socializing and traveling in retirement years. Marlys also volunteered as an election official. She also was an Oliverette for the Oliver Corporation. 

Living family members include four children, Jeff (Diane) Baldwin of Mason City, Becky Miller of Minnetonka, Minn., Cathy (Kevin) Snow of Rochester, Minn. and Mike Baldwin of Lakeville, Minn.; nine grandchildren, Matthew (Lindsey) Baldwin, Stefanie and Steven Baldwin, Erin Mays, Callie and Ryan Miller, Kari Snow, and Sydney and Trevor Baldwin; three great grandchildren, Nicholas and Jillian Mays and Raylin Miller; two brothers, Herb (Alice) Carpenter of North Washington and Jerome Carpenter of Ionia; a sister, Bernice Flick of Ionia; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband on Nov. 28, 2006; a brother, Russell Carpenter and a sister, Eleanor Rosonke.

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

Darlene F. Martens dies at 72

Published: Monday, February 20, 2012

Darlene F. Martens age 72 of New Hampton died Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, at the New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in New Hampton in the care of Iowa Hospice.

A private family funeral service will be held at the Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home, New Hampton with interment in Calvary Cemetery, Charles City. No public visitation will be held. Online condolences for Darlene's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com 641-394-4334

Darlene Frances Martens was born December 1, 1939, near Nashua in rural Chickasaw County, the daughter of Amos W. and Helen M. (Marovets) Springer. She received her education in Nashua, graduating from the Nashua High School in 1958. On December 31, 1959, at the Little Brown Church, Nashua, she married Harlan C. Martens. To this union two daughters were born. The couple made New Hampton their home where they raised their family. Darlene worked as a cook for many years at the former Crystal Grill Truck Stop in New Hampton. She enjoyed long walks throughout her life, crocheting and fishing. On October 19, 1991, her husband Harlan died at the age of 75.

Survivors include one daughter, Deb (Joe) Zubrod of Lawler; four grandchildren, Jason (Amy) Kuehn of New Hampton, Eric (Katy) Kuehn of Lawler, Nichole Byrne of New Hampton, Pamela (Thomas) Gray of El Paso, Texas; three great-grandchildren, Taylor Byrne of Lawler, Jaxon Kuehn of New Hampton, Evelyn Kuehn of Lawler; four sisters, Dorothy (Henry) Mohring of Ionia; Madonna (Ervin) Mohring of Charles City, Lorraine (Ralph) Bigelow of Charles City, Beverly (Dave) Bray of West Des Moines. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one daughter, Deeann Byrne on June 24, 2006; one brother, Gordon Springer; one sister, Doris Martin.

Gerald Carolan dies at 58

Published: Monday, February 20, 2012

Gerald Carolan age 58 of Waucoma died Friday, Feb.17, 2012, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Lawler with Rev. Nick March celebrating the Mass. The pall will be placed on the casket by his wife and three sons. John Cuvelier will be the lector and the offertory gifts will be presented by Jesse Lahman and Ann Cahoy.

Interment will be in the church cemetery with Don Benz, Don Winter, Gene Schmitt, Bill Hoey, Mike Kurtenbach and John Bush serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Tom Carolan, Steve Carolan, Dan Carolan, Ron Carolan, Terry Carolan, Mark Carolan, Dave Dierksen and Fred Oakden.

Friends may greet the family 3 – 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20, 2012, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler where there will be a 7 p.m. scripture service. Visitation continues an hour prior to the funeral at the church on Tuesday. Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home, New Hampton is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences for Gerald's family may be left at hugebackfunerlahome.com

Gerald Lyle Carolan was born February 23, 1953, in New Hampton, the son of Eugene and Margaret (Schupanitz) Carolan. He received his elementary education in Lawler and was a 1971 Graduate of the Fredericksburg High School. On November 17, 1973, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler, he married Gail Diemer. The couple were blessed with three sons. Gerald was a lifetime farmer. He grew up on a farm and made farming his lifelong career. He also spent the last few years driving truck for Croell. Gerald enjoyed socializing and loved to spend time with his family. He will be remembered by his family for being hard working and the fun times they had in his garage.

Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Gail; three sons, David (Kim) Carolan of Tiffin, Mike (Beth) Carolan of Williamsburg, and Brian Carolan of W. Des Moines; two grandchildren, Carter Carolan and MadalynCarolan; his mother, Margaret Carolan of Decorah; six brothers, Tom (Eileen) Carolan of Lawler, Steve (Sherri) Carolan of Decorah, Dan (Laurie) Carolan of Lawler, Ron (Tammy) Carolan of Fredericksburg, Terry (Maura) Carolan of Omaha and Mark (Leann) Carolan of W. Des Moines; his father and mother-in-law, Paul and Ruth Diemer of Fredericksburg; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Carolan.

Leo Henry Elenz dies at 79

Published: Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Leo Henry Elenz, age 79 of New Hampton passed away Feb. 20, 2012 at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo.

On Monday, February 20, 2012 we lost a husband, father, brother, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, son and friend in the passing of Leo Henry Elenz. Leo, age 79 of New Hampton passed away at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012 at Holy Family Parish ~ St. Joseph’s center in New Hampton with Fr. Mark Osterhaus celebrating. Burial will be held at a later date.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24, 2012 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton with a 6 p.m. scriptural wake service. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Online condolences may be left for Leo’s family at www.conway-markhamfh.com. Memorials may be directed to the family.

He was born to Lawrence and Marie Elenz, a farming family in Alta Vista Iowa on 4-8-32; the second oldest of 13 children. What a hard life it was. Ask any of the nine remaining siblings, Theresa, Rita, Rosie, Maggie, Tillie, Mike, Katie, Alice and Larry. He left for the Korean War in 1952 and returned in 1955 to marry his bride and joy, Marilyn Cecilia Mishak some years later on May 1, 1957 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Alta Vista. With this 55 year union of spirits came 6 children; Lori, Jeff, Tony, Lisa, Keith and Chris; and from these children 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren were born. A small town farm lad with so much potential, he was a farmer, carpenter, policeman, restaurant and barkeep, motel owner and most of all a story telling friend. Always willing to fight for what was right, teach what needed to be learned and instill values his kids maintain and pass on. Marilyn will face this life, never alone, with God, her children and friends like you by her side.

Leo enjoyed fishing, hunting, storytelling, wood working, playing cards and flying his airplane. He was a member of Holy Family Parish ~ St. Joseph’s Center, the Knights of Columbus, Alta Vista VFW, New Hampton American Legion and the Catholic Order of Foresters.

Leo is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn of New Hampton; his children, Lori (Red) Deutsch of Prescott Valley, Ariz., Jeff (Candace) Elenz of Waverly, Tony (Nancy) Elenz of Eagan, Minn., Lisa (Tim Peterson) Elenz of Boise, Idaho, Keith (Karla) Elenz of New Hampton, Chris (Nancy) Elenz of Kempner, Texas; his sisters, Theresa Stremcha of New Hampton, Rita Cummings of Evansdale, Rose Meirick of Jesup, Margaret Faber of Algona, Tillie Havlik of Elma, Katie Schmit of New Hampton, Alice Kintzle of Waterloo; his brothers, Mike Elenz of Reno, Nev. and Larry Elenz of Waterloo and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Mary Ann Webb, Barbara Bormann and brother, John Elenz.

Thank you for your prayers, support, friendship and understanding. ~The family of Leo H Elenz.

Lee E. Wilkie dies at 91

Published: Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Lee E. Wilkie, 91, passed away Feb. 14, 2012 at Good Samaritan Home in West Union.

Funeral services were held 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye with Rev. David R. Nelson officiating. Friends called from 4 until 7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding services at the church on Saturday. Interment followed at Alpha Cemetery.

Lee E. Wilkie, son of Milo and Nora Randall Wilkie, was born Nov. 8, 1920, in Stapleton Township of Chickasaw County. He was baptized as an adult in the Lutheran faith in Hawkeye.

On November 12, 1950, he was united in marriage with Lois Mae Suess at Palatine, Ill. Lois died on July 24, 1970. On August 7, 1971, Lee married Leona Gager. They were later divorced.

Lee farmed for many years in the Alpha area prior to retiring from farming in 1967. He then did mechanic work in Hawkeye until 2004, when he entered the Good Samaritan Home in West Union. His death occurred at the home on Tuesday, February 14, 2012. He was ninety-one years old. Lee always enjoyed handyman work, and fabricated countless items out of metal for friends in Hawkeye.

He is survived by Gerri (Bob) Randall, Eyota, Minn., Leona (Fred) Murray, Fredericksburg, Larry (Mary) Franzen, Fredericksburg, Linda (Ken) Schaufenbuel, Lawler, Lenny Franzen, Fredericksburg, Lorraine (Ray) Armbrecht, Fredericksburg, LeAnn Franzen, Lawler, and several cousins.

In addition to his wife, Lois and parents, Lee was preceded in death by one sister, Elsie Franzen; and a half brother, Ray Randall and three nephews, Lyle, Leo and LaVerneFranzen.

Harlan “Shorty” Flatjord dies at 80

Published: Thursday, February 23, 2012

Harlan “Shorty” Flatjord, age 80, of Alta Vista, died on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012 at Hoag Memorial Hospital in New Port Beach, Calif.

Memorial Services will be held at a later date at Crane Creek Immanuel Lutheran Church near Jerico. Burial will be in Crane Creek Cemetery.

Online condolences for Shorty’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com. Memorials may be directed to Shorty’s family.

Harlan “Shorty” Alvin Flatjord was born to Alvin and Trena (Sanderson) Flatjordon Sept. 28, 1931 in New Hampton. Shorty attended and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1949. After graduating he entered the United States Navy on April 4, 1951. Upon receiving his honorable discharge on March 31, 1955 Shorty attended Milwaukee School of Engineeringand graduated in 1958 with a BSEE in engineering. He worked for Rockwell-Collins as a field representative in the aeronautical division for 30 years until his retirement in 1987.

Survivors include Shorty’s nephews, Richard Stone of Garden Grove, Calif., Stanford Stone and Terry Stone, both of Stanton, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvina and TrenaFlatjord; his brother Paul and sister, Burdeen Stone.

Leo Kriener dies at 77

Published: Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Leo Kriener, age 77, of Fort Atkinson, died on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, at his home.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas,with Rev. Nick March presiding. Burial was in the church cemetery.

Friends called from 3-7 p.m., on Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, at the Schluter – Balik Funeral Home, Chekal Chapel in Fort Atkinson, and also after 9 a.m., on Saturday at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas. There was a rosary at 4:00 p.m. on Friday at the Funeral Home.

Leo Chris Kriener was born on May 4, 1934, the son of Peter and Mary (Kuennen) Kriener on the family farm near Fort Atkinson. Leo attended St. Luke’s Catholic School in St. Lucas, and graduated in 1952. He served in the US Army from 1957-59. When he returned home he worked at Oliver in Charles City. Leo was united in marriage to Rosemary Herold on August 4, 1962, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson, and to this union, six children were born: Anne, Evie, Linda, Rich, Arnold & Joseph. Together Leo and Rosemary farmed near Fort Atkinson, where Leo was actively still engaged in farming until his death. Leo had a good sense of humor and enjoyed visiting with young famers in the area; providing them with “words of wisdom”. Leo enjoyed bowling, golfing, watching the farm markets and was an avid Cardinal and Packer fan. Leo was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church, the Catholic Order of the Foresters and the Huber – Steffes American Legion Post 672.

Leo is survived by his wife: Rosemary Kriener, Fort Atkinson, Six children: Anne (David) Blocker, Waukon; Evie (Myron) Milbrandt, Waucoma; Linda Jones, Fort Worth, Texas; Rich (Nancy) Kriener, New Hampton; Arnold Kriener, Ossian; and Joe (Kristin) Kriener, Ossian, IA. Eighteen grandchildren: Katie, Marty & Grace Blocker; Cassie & Nolan Milbrandt; Xavier, Markus &Trinton Jones; Ryan, Mikia& Tyler Kriener; Kyleigh, Jared Ashleigh, Allanda& Madison Kriener; and Trey, Eric & Clara Kriener. Two sisters: Anita Busta, Fort Atkinson and Eleanor Mracek, Protivin. Five brothers: Linus Kriener, New Hampton; Peter (Diane) Kriener, Jerome (Madonna) Kriener; and Conrad (Kathleen) Kriener, all of Fort Atkinson and Herman (Greta) Kriener, Spillville. Sisters-in-law: Pauline Kriener, New Hampton; Valeria Herold, Anastasia Kriener, & Anita Herold all of Fort Atkinson, along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents: Peter and Mary (Kuennen) Kriener. Four brothers: Cyril Kriener in 1998, Francis Kriener in 1999, and Ignatius Kriener in 2002 and Lawrence Kriener in infancy in 1945. Sisters and brothers-in-law: Ambrose & Evelyn Herold, Reuben Mracek, Cletus Herold, and GodloveBusta.

Gerald Lee Upham dies at 75

Published: Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Gerald Lee Upham, son of William Clair and Florence JaehrlingUpham, died at the Care Center in New Hampton, on Feb. 27, 2012.

A memorial service will be held at a later date with inurnment at Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg.

Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home New Hampton is in charge of arrangments. 641-394-4334 Online condolences for Gerald's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com

Jerry was born In New Hampton, on November 28, 1932. He received his education in Fredericksburg and at the University of Iowa. He enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Newfoundland.

Jerry retired from the Southern Pacific Railroad and spent his retirement years in Texas and Florida before returning to Iowa to make his home.

Jerry is survived by four sisters, Marilyn Moldenhauer of New Hampton, Grace (Gene) Nelson, Carol Ann (Gary) Steege and Joan Cochran all of Fredericksburg and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Joyce (Clair) Rausch of Iowa City and a brother- in -law, Ted Moldenhauer.

John F. Paulus, Jr. dies at 81

Published: Wednesday, February 29, 2012

John F. Paulus, Jr., age 81, of Ionia, died Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2012 at Cedar Health in Charles City, with his family by his side.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 2, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Church in North Washington with Father Mark Osterhaus and Msgr. John Hemann celebrating. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery in North Washington.

Visitation will be from 4 - 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 1, 2012 with a 4:30 p.m. rosary and a 7:30 p.m. scriptural wake service at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the mass on Friday. Online condolences for John’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com. Memorials may be directed to a charity of your choice or Hospice of North Iowa.

John Francis Paulus was born on Nov. 21, 1930 to John and Helen (Krapp) Paulus near Nora Springs. He attended school in Nora Springs and country school near Deerfield. On September 27, 1949, he was united in marriage to his loving wife, JoAnn Dowd at Immaculate Conception Church in Charles City. His lifelong passion was farming so the couple made their home on a farm in rural Ionia where they have lived their entire married life. John enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling, playing cards and spending time with his family at the family farm pond that he built. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Knights of Columbus, Moose Lodge and a lifetime member of the Catholic Order of Foresters.

John is survived by his wife of 62 years, JoAnn of Ionia; the couple’s children, Jean (Ed) Hegtvedt of Charles City, Roger (Judy) Paulus of Elma, Judy (Mike) Gebel of Lawler, Joe (Jane) Paulus of Ionia and Shelly (Troy) Reicks of Charles City; grandchildren, Jerry (Julie) Hegtvedt, Kim (Lon) Isakson, Wendy (Lenny) Luft, Julie (Aaron) Boge, Jon (Amy) Paulus, Ryan (Katie) Paulus, Amber (Adam) Markham, Amy (Josh) Reis, Jeremy (Roxanne) Hyke, Brittany (Paul) Damjanovic, Brandon Diesburg, Chris Paulus, Matt Paulus, Kelli Paulus, QuintenReicks and MarjieReicks; 15 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Eunice Paulus of Renton, Wash. and Doris Olson of Osage, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Marjorie; grandson, Justin Hyke; brother, Gerald Paulus; twin brothers in infancy; sister, Patricia Gilbert and brothers-in-law, Alvin Gilbert and Robert Olson.