Norma Jean Ridder dies at 63

Posted: Monday, October 8, 2012

Norma Jean Ridder age 63 of Nashua, died Wednesday Oct. 3, 2012, at Hospice of North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012 at New Life Community Church, Charles City with interment in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Nashua.

Friends may greet the family 4 - 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5, 2012 at the Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Onine condolences for Norma's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com

Norma Jean Ridder was born September 1, 1949, in Charles City, the daughter of Ray and Martha (Wolff) Crooks. She received her education in Nashua and graduated from Nashua High School in 1968. Shortly after graduating she enrolled to become certified as a Nursing Assistant. Her first job after school was working in Mason City at a Nursing Home. During this time Norma met and married Leslie Carroll. To this union three children were born. The couple later divorced. Norma and the children moved and made New Hampton their new home. She took a position at the New Hampton Hospital serving medication and working as a Nurse’s Aide.

While working at the hospital. Norma was set up on a blind date with Jim Ridder. On December 31, 1994, they were married at the Baptist Church in New Hampton. After their marriage the two families became one, and Norma now had six children in her family. The couple moved to Nashua after marrying. In October, 2005 Norma was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, and fought the disease for seven years.
Norma had a strong faith in the Lord. She was an active member at the New Life Community Church in Charles City. Norma had strong ties with previous co-workers and high school friends and enjoyed getting together with them on a frequent basis.

Norma enjoyed spending time with family and friends; especially her grandchildren. Her hobbies included boating, traveling in the Truck with Jim, and spending time with the family dog Zeus.

Survivors Include her husband, Jim Ridder; two sons, George (Marcia) Carroll of Marble Rock, Jack (Renee) Carroll of Round Rock, Texas; one daughter Angie Carroll of Des Moines; her mother, Martha Crooks of Nashua; one stepson, Eric Ridder of Des Moines, two stepdaughters, Stacy (Ryan) Peterson of Rudd, Sara Ridder of Greenville, N.C.; four brothers, Roger Crooks of Charles City, Ron (Andrea) Crooks of Ft. Madison, Lee (Regina) Crooks of Iowa City, Terry Crooks of Cedar Rapids; one sister, Marlys “Marty” (Ron) Brunsvold of Davenport; and ten grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her father Ray Crooks.

Isabell Brookins dies at 92

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2012.
 
Isabell Brookins, age 92 of New Hampton, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012, at her home in New Hampton.

Funeral services for Isabell will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012, at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton with Pastor Corey Brookins officiating. Burial will be in New Oregon Cemetery in Cresco following the funeral luncheon on Saturday.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 12, 2012, at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton and will continue one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Online condolences for Isabell’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com.

Isabell Pearl Emma Drewelow Brookins was born Nov. 22, 1919, to Herman O. and Elizabeth Linneman Drewelow near Boyd in Chickasaw County.

She attended school, kindergarten through eighth grade in a rural school.

Isabell was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith in Boyd.

She worked in various homes as a housekeeper.

On April 13, 1940, she was united in marriage to Robert Emmett Brookins. To this union eight children were born.

Through the years Isabell worked side-by-side with her husband with the farm operation, and years later in farm tile drainage, until she suffered multiple heart attacks and underwent open heart surgery on her 53rd birthday. Isabell thanked God for her most useful and needed birthday present.

As a mother of eight, she saw to getting her children to Sunday school and church. She prepared for them to go to camp through Sunday school and also to Rural Bible Crusade Camp in Story City.

Isabell accepted the Lord and was baptized by immersion on April 18, 1954, becoming a member of First Baptist Church in Cresco, and in July of 1995, she became a member of First Baptist Church of New Hampton. She helped out during Bible School at times.

She was a member of the Legion Auxiliary of Henry Pinch Unit No. 104 in Cuba City, Wis., and helped in the kitchen at the Senior Citizen Centers in Cuba City, Searcy, Ark., and New Hampton.

Isabell had always raised a large garden and canned much of the food for winter to feed her family, until 1979 when the heat became too much for her. When trouble or problems occurred, she headed for her garden where she worked and talked with the Lord. She found great joy, comfort and strength there among God’s creations.

Isabell is survived by her children, Valerie (Ed) Pettit of Coralville, Arthur (Doris) Brookins of Chatfield, Minn., Roger (Elaine) Brookins of Cresco, Judy Brookins of Platteville, Wis., JoAnn (Special Friend, Ron) Brookins of Ionia, Joseph (Georgie) Brookins of Ellendale, Minn., Alberta “Birdie” (John) Linneman of Mt. Hope, Wis., and Bonnie Brookins of Washington; 37 grandchildren, 87 great-grandchildren, 27 great-great grandchildren; one brother, Francis Drewelow of New Hampton; one sister, Ruth Weeks of Mission, Texas, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her brothers, Oliver, Lyle and Robert; Her sisters, Leanor Schuchhardt, Bernice Ochala, Gladys Natvig, Eileen Bernard and Rose Marie Stevenson.

Romana Bryant dies at 82

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2012

Romana BRyant, age 82, of Spillville, died Monday, October 8, 2012 at the Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Friday, Oct. 12, 2012, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville, IA, with Rev. George Karnik presiding. Burial will be in the St. Wenceslaus Cemetery, Spillville.
Friends may call from 3-7 p.m., on Thursday, at the Balik Funeral Home in Spillville. There will be a rosary at 4 and a scripture service at 7 p.m., at the funeral home on Thursday. There will also be visitation at the Balik Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Friday morning.

Romana Catherine (Zeien) Ryant was born on Feb. 28, 1930, near North Washington, Iowa, the daughter of John and Wilhelmina Zeien. She graduated from high school at North Washington and worked at the New Hampton Hospital.

On October 17, 1950, she was united in marriage to Joseph Ryant of Spillville They farmed near Spillville for the next 37 years; before retiring and moving to town in 1988.

Romana was very active in her church; including the Legion of Mary, assembling layettes, making rosaries, caring for the Grotto of Lourdes, Eucharistic Minister and distributing communion to the home bound, leading the rosary before Mass and altar care.

She worked part time at the Spillville Library for ten years and was volunteer coordinator for the Spillville Senior Meal Site and Senior Bingo.

Romana was well known for her spirit of giving. She was proud of, and loved, all of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Romana’s survivors include Three daughters: Pat Pinter, Cresco; Judy (Richard) Jessen, Ankeny; and Karen (Michal) Hutzel, Mason City; three sons: Francis (Donna) Ryant, Cresco; James (Denise) Ryant, Spillville; and Gary (Jane) Ryant, Ridgeway; sixteen grandchildren: Jeff Hulsebus, Dawn (Othello) Rollon, Dana (Joe) Karasek, Chad (Kristin) Pinter, Shane (Elisa) Pinter, Sara (Noah) Parr, Anne (Carl) Piper, Chris (Bonnie) Jessen, Michelle, Mark and Monica Ryant, Ashten and Zachariah Frana, Chezny Ryant, Jacob and Jennifer Hutzel. Fifteen great-grandchildren: Amber Burkhart, Clay and Zoe Rollon, Kennedy and Kali Karasek, Alexa, Brianna and Ciara Pinter, Michaela, Josephine and Kathryn Pinter, Konner & Caleb Parr, Grace and Grant Jessen. Three brothers: Louis (Lucille) Zeien and Francis (Rita) Zeien, both of New Hampton, and Vincent (Toddy) Zeien, Ionia; one sister: Agnes Brincks, New Hampton.

Romana was preceded in death by her husband: Joseph, one son, John, her parents, one son-in-law: Joe Pinter, two brothers, Alvin Zeien, Elmer Zeien, and one brother-in-law: Guido Brincks.

Dick Meyer dies at 69

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2012

Dick Meyer, age 69 of Ionia, died on Monday, Oct. 8, 2012, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

There will be a celebration of Dick’s life from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2012 at the Downtown Country Civic Center in Ionia.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Dick’s family.

Dickie Ray Meyer was born on March 8, 1943 to Clarence and Marion (Green) Meyer in Charles City.

Dick attended school in Charles City and graduated from Charles City High School in 1961.
Dick worked at Oliver for a time before becoming employed at Mike’s C&O Tire in Charles City where he worked for 25 years. In later years Dick worked for Allied Redi-Mix until he retired. He was united in marriage to Cheryl Mulnix in La Crosse, Wis.

Dick was an avid NASCAR and NHRA fan.

He enjoyed car racing, truck and tractor pulls, playing cards, yard games, the outdoors and socializing with family and friends.

Dick is survived by his wife Cheryl of Ionia; children Tammy (Mark) Laehn of Reasnor, Scott (Amy) Meyer of Otley and Melissa (Brian) Boess of Hawkeye; grandchildren Stephanie and Kayla Thorne, Joshua and Sarah Meyer, Mercedes and Jessica Boess, and Casey, Emily and Nathan Laehn; great-grandchildren Tyler Sizemore and Ivy and Ki Boyd; sister Dixie Baume of Prescott, Ariz.; and three nieces.

He is preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Marion Meyer and brother-in-law Thomas Baume.

 
Merlin Heimerdinger dies at 82

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2012

Merlin L. Heimerdinger, age 82 of rural Lawler, died Thursday morning, Oct. 11, 2012, at the New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in New Hampton.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton. Online condolences for Merlin's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Lois Harris dies at 83

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2012 4:02 pm

Lois Harris, age 83 of Charles City, died Monday morning, Oct. 8, 2012, at Hospice of North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012, at St. John Lutheran Church, Nashua, with the Rev. Thomas Hagen presiding.

Interment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, rural Charles City.

Friends greeted the family from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2012, at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua. Visitation continued an hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Online condolences for Lois’ family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

 
Alan Franzen dies at 53

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2012.

Alan J. Franzen, age 53 of New Hampton, died Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012, at New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m,, Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012, at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Center with Father Mark Osterhaus celebrating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in New Hampton.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12, 2012, at St. Joseph’s Gathering Space in New Hampton. There will be a 4:30 p.m. Rosary and a 7 p.m. Scriptural Wake Service.

Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the funeral mass on Saturday. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences for Al’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com.

Alan Joseph Franzen was born on March 18, 1959, to Clarence and Valeria (Berst) Franzen in New Hampton.

He attended St. Joseph’s School and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1977.

Alan worked in lawn care and worked with several friends on the ICE railroad. Alan was an avid Cardinal baseball fan. He enjoyed music, gardening and was a railroad buff. But Alan especially enjoyed spending time with his family and his dog, Sparky.

He was a member of Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Center in New Hampton.

Alan is survived by his mother, Valeria Franzen of New Hampton; his sisters, Kathryn and Rebecca Franzen, both of New Hampton; his brothers, Kenneth and Steven (Jo) Franzen, also of New Hampton; one niece, Amanda Franzen of Mason City; and special aunt, Theresa Berst of New Hampton.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence.

 
Maude Bartlett dies at 99

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2012

Maude Leone Bartlett, age 99 of Yakima, Wash., formerly of Nashua died Tuesday evening, Oct. 9, 2012, at the Good Samaritan Health Care Center in Yakima.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua. Online condolences for Maude's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

 
James Louis Gebel dies at 64

Posted: Friday, October 12, 2012

James Louis Gebel, age 64, of New Hampton, died on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012 at Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 15, 2012 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home Chapel in New Hampton, with Father Mark Osterhaus officiating.  Burial will be in New Hampton Cemetery at New Hampton, with Andy Meyer, Steve Franzen, Neal Johnson, Joe Rosonke, Larry Brown and Cody Marion serving as casket bearers.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 14, 2012 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton with a scriptural wake service at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Monday at the funeral home.  Online condolences for James’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfuneralhome.com.

James Louis Gebel was born on March 3, 1948 to Louis and Tillie (Koudelka) Gebel in New Hampton.  He attended Utica #4 Country School until sixth grade and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1967.  He then worked for Hillandale Farms until 2012 when he retired.  Jim was united in marriage to Rose Schamber on August 17, 1974 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Hampton.  Jim enjoyed music, NASCAR, playing with his grandson, his dog Toby and enjoying his family.

Jim is survived by his wife Rose of New Hampton; son Tim Gebel of New Hampton; grandson Austin Gebel of New Hampton; sister Shirley Gebel of Lawler; sisters-in-law Margaret (Larry) Riha, Fort Atkinson, Kathy Schamber of New Hampton, Helen (Dan) Marion of Milan, Ill; nephew Cody Marion of Los Angeles, Calif.  He is preceded in death by his parents Louis and Tillie Gebel.

 
Merlin Louis Heimerdinger dies at 82

Posted: Monday, October 15, 2012
 
Merlin Louis Heimerdinger, 82, returned to his heavenly Father on Oct. 11, 2012, after a valiant 12-year battle with renal cancer. 

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2012 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton with Pastor Vincent Fricke of Immanuel Lutheran Parish officiating. Military honors will take place in front of the church immediately after the service, followed by interment at Saude Lutheran Cemetery. 

Friends may greet the family 4 – 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15, 2012, at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton, commencing with a short prayer service & reminiscences at 8 p.m. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday.  Online condolences for Merlin's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Merlin was born July 27, 1930, northeast of Jerico, on the Heimerdinger family farm, in the same house in which he resided for the majority of his life. He was the only child of Louis and Alice (Haugen) Heimerdinger, and attended school at the Paris Township country school in Howard County. Farming was Merlin’s lifetime career and one he genuinely loved. He took great pride in the fact that his century farm had been in the family since 1877. 

Merlin served in the US Army, fighting in the Korean War from July 1952 to July of 1953. He was an infantry rifleman with the 2nd Division, 23rd Infantry Regiment, Fox Company, and was involved in battles on Old Badly, Arrowhead Ridge, T-Bone Hill, Three Sisters, and the Chowan Valley, among others. While in Korea, he was a Platoon Leader; he was selected from his company to be a security honor guard for President Elect General Dwight Eisenhower on his tour of Korea. Over the last twenty years, Merlin attended many 2nd Infantry Division Korean War reunions and has kept in contact with his loyal, beloved army buddies all over the USA and considered them his closest of friends.

Merlin married Doris Bronner from Lime Springs, on Feb. 23, 1954. To this union were born 6 children, one no more adoring of their father than the next -- Deborah (Stephen) Loes from Chardon, Ohio, Gary (Susan) Heimerdinger from Cresco, David (Debra) Heimerdinger from New Hampton, Karen McGrath, from New Hampton, Cheryl Edwards from West Branch, and Dale Heimerdinger from Lawler. Merlin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was kept amused by each of his six children jockeying for the position of being his favorite. He was their hero.

One of the biggest highlights of Merlin’s life was his annual fly-in fishing trip on Trout Lake, Canada, a trip he made for 21 consecutive years, his last being in 2011. He valued this time spent with long time friends, meeting new acquaintances along the way. His enjoyment of this trip was further heightened when one of his sons and a few other close family relatives joined the group. Merlin was an expert at tying his own fishing jigs, and in the more recent years, designated himself as the master fisherman of the group, always willing to offer sage advice on how to catch the biggest fish.

One of the best memories in Merlin’s 82 years occurred this past spring, soon after Merlin & Doris moved off the farm and into New Hampton. A party was held in their honor at the newly refurbished Heimerdinger family barn. The restoration of this 1895 barn was a labor of love, performed by family and friends, and a process Merlin enjoyed watching and supervising. One of Merlin’s few regrets was not having more days to enjoy socializing and reminiscing with loved ones in this barn where he had worked side by side his entire lifetime with his father, mother, stepfather and sons. The tales of milking cows and doing chores in the barn always entertained, but the stories became quite fuzzy when Merlin’s daughters insisted they were part of the chore team in the barn! 

Merlin was an active member of Immanuel (Crane Creek) Lutheran Church, rural Jerico, and the Paul Johann Alta Vista VFW Post #4069, marching in parades and participating in the military honor guard for veterans who had passed. He enjoyed reading, visiting friends & family, & reflecting on the news and politics with his coffee crew at Jerico Jo’s. The Gunderson Foundation in Lacrosse, Wisconsin, recently recognized him for being a 31-year donor. Merlin was extremely grateful for the care received at Gunderson, and for the knowledge and support of Doctors Kaphusman, Jumanville, Conway, & their oncology team. 

Surviving Merlin are his wife, Doris, their 6 children, 16 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. A special long time friend, fishing buddy, & the father of three of Merlin’s grandsons, Steve McGrath, also survives him.
 
Preceding him in death were his parents, Alice Lee and Louis Heimerdinger, and his stepfather, Oliver Lee. Merlin will be remembered most for his pride in serving his country, unending love and devotion to his family, and for being a wonderful, loyal friend and neighbor to all who knew him. Everyone enjoyed his humor and wit.

Louis J. Zeien dies at 84

Posted: Monday, October 15, 2012

Louis J. Zeien age 84 of New Hampton, died Friday, Oct. 12, 2012, at the Linn Haven Rehab and Healthcare in New Hampton.
 
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 1:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15, 2012, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, North Washington with Rev. Mark Osterhaus celebrating the Mass. Lectors for the service are Frank Ryant and Judy Jessen. Presenting the offertory gifts are Greta Glaser and Jill Zeien. Ann Bennett will be the organist accompanying the congregation along with family members as vocalists. 
 
Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, North Washington with Garrett Zeien, Matt Zeien, Adam Zeien, Phil Zeien, Kevin Glaser and Steven Hughes serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Ray Zeien, Zach Zeien, Scott Glaser, Andy Glaser, Jacob Glaser and Tony Zeien.
Friends may greet the family 3 – 7 p.m. Sunday at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton where there will be a 3 p.m. Forester Rosary and 6 p.m. Parish Scripture Service. Visitation continues an hour prior the Mass at the church on Monday.  Online condolences for Louis' family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.
 
Louis John Zeien was born July 2, 1928, in New Hampton, the son of John and Wilhelmina (Schwickerath) Zeien. He received his education at St.Mary’s School in North Washington. He attended through the 8th grade, until he was needed to stay home and care for the family farm. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting as a young man. Louis spent his entire life living, farming and working in Chickasaw County. 
 
On October 15, 1952, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Washington, he married Lucille Tilkes. To this union five children were born. The couple initially lived and farmed together south of North Washington. After a home fire, Louis and Lucille farmed near Colwell for a few years, then rented a farm south of Ionia for 8 years. In 1967 they bought their farm near North Washington where they lived for 29 years, moving into New Hampton in 1996. Louis loved carpentry and construction. He built nearly all the buildings on their farm. He had also been employed by Al Manning Construction and the lumber yard in Nashua. 
 
Louis loved going to sale barns and auctions, collecting farm toys and bells and was an avid woodworker. He and Lucille enjoyed traveling during their retirement years. Family was always first in Louis' life. His memberships include the Catholic Order of Foresters and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
 
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Lucille; three sons, Tom (Cindy) Zeien, Robert (Nancy) Zeien and Peter (Dixie) Zeien, all of North Washington; two daughters, Madonna Hughes of Grimes, IA, Elaine (Dale) Glaser of Ionia; twenty three grandchildren, Sabrina (Travis) Tuttle, Steven Hughes, Molly (Jason) Herrick, Kevin Glaser, Scott Glaser, Andy Glaser, Jacob Glaser, Gretta Glaser, Matt Zeien, Ray Zeien, Jill Zeien, Zach Zeien, Adam (Cheyenne) Zeien, Ashley (Aaron) Lippert, Autumn (Issac) Carter, April (Matt) Kinley, Alicia Zeien, Garrett Zeien, Lindsay (Jim) Kuhn, Phil Zeien, Tony Zeien, Nicole Zeien and Jessica Zeien; ten great-grandchildren; two brothers, Francis (Rita) Zeien of New Hampton and Vincent (Toddy) Zeien of Ionia; one sister, Agnes Brinks of New Hampton; 
 
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Alvin Zeien and Elmer Zeien; one sister, Romana Ryant; two grandchildren, Michael Zeien and Amber Zeien.

Maude Leone Bartlett dies at 99

Posted: Monday, October 15, 2012

Maude Leone Bartlett age 99 of Yakima, Wash., formerly of Nashua, died Tuesday evening, Oct. 9, 2012 at the Good Samaritan Health Care Center in Yakima.
 
Graveside Services will be held 2 Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2012 at Greenwood Cemetery at Nashua.
Friends may greet the family from noon until the time of the service (12:00 - 2 pm) at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua.  Online condolences for Maude's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com

Maude Leone Bartlett was born April 6, 1913, in rural Chickasaw County,  the daughter of Noble G. and Eva (Waterman) Fisher. She received her education in rural country school near Chickasaw and finalized her education in Nashua.
 
On June 2, 1934, in Anamosa, she married John Elmer Bartlett. To this union two sons were born. The couple lived near Nashua until moving to Washington State in 1960. Maude had worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in many area nursing homes in Washington. She loved to travel and spend part of her winters in Arizona.

Survivors include two sons, John (Arlene) Bartlett of Mattawa, Wash. A, Russell (Debra) Bartlett of Ocean Park, Wash.; eleven grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren and many great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Howard Fisher, Kenneth Fisher, Lee Fisher and Russell Fisher; four sisters, Vivian Kimball, Hattie Schroeder, Mary Baldwin and Ella Cagley

Lucille Staley dies at 85

Posted: Monday, October 15, 2012
Lucille Staley, age 85, of Calmar, died Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012 at New Hampton Nursing and Rehab in New Hampton. 
Memorial Mass will be 11a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2012 at St, Aloysius Catholic Church in Calmar with Father Daniel Knipper presiding, burial of ashes will be in the St. Aloysius Cemetery. 
There will only be visitation from 9 – 11 a.m. Wednesday morning at the church Schluter Balik Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Father Francis Perry dies at 87

Posted: Thursday, October 18, 2012

Father Francis Perry, 87, of Dubuque, former pastor for St. Boniface Church in Ionia and Immaculate Conception Church in North Washington, died Tuesday, Oct. 16, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, October 18, 2012 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Ionia, with a 4:30 p.m. Rosary and a 6 p.m. Scriptural Wake Service. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the funeral mass at Immaculate Conception Church in North Washington.  Memorials may be directed to the family.  Online condolences for Father Frank’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com. 
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 19, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Church in North Washington with Archbishop Jerome Hanus and Monsignor Carl Schmitt celebrating.  Burial will be in St. Boniface Cemetery at Ionia.

Francis John Perry was born on May 24, 1925, in St. Lucas, to Matthew and Theresa (Blong) Perry.  He graduated from Loras College in Dubuque and completed his theological studies at St. Meinrad Seminary in St. Meinrad, IN.  Father Frank was ordained to the priesthood in his home parish of St. Luke’s in St. Lucas on May 30, 1950, by Archbishop Henry P. Rohlman.  He served in the active priesthood for 50 years.  Father Frank last served Immaculate Conception Parish in North Washington and St. Boniface Parish in Ionia from 1987 until his retirement in 2000.

Frank was active in many sports, and especially baseball and tennis.   He was a pitcher for the Seminary baseball team, and his specialty was his KNUCKLEBALL.  He loved tennis also, and pitching horseshoes.  He was very proficient at all of these. 

Father Frank is survived by his sisters, Marie Marek of Cedar Rapids and Flora (Pat) McMullen of Williamsburg, Va; his brother, Matt (Sharon) Perry of Libertyville, Ill; his sister-in-law, Mary Perry;  as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Rita Karnik; brothers, Leo, Robert and Jerome and his brothers-in-law, Maynard Marek and Anthony Karnik

 
Magdalena Tenge dies at 95

Posted: Thursday, October 18, 2012

Magdalena Tenge age 95 of North Washington, Iowa died Wednesday October 17, 2012 at the
New Hampton Nursing and Rehab Center.
 
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 20, 2012,
at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Washington with
burial in St. Mary's Cemetery, North Washington.
 
Friends may greet the family 4 - 8 pm Friday at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home
in New Hampton with further visitation one hour prior to the service Saturday at the church. 
Online condolences for Magdalena's family may be left at
hugebackfuneralhome.com  641-394-4334
 

Daniel Riha dies at 75

Posted: Thursday, October 18, 2012

Daniel M. Riha age 75 of Waucoma, Iowa died Thursday morning, Oct. 18, 2012, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 22, 2012, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Waucoma with Rev. Nick March officiating. Lectors for the service will be David Riha, Marilyn Garvey and Barbara Stegemann. Mass servers will be John Brannon, Patrick Riha and Florian Langreck. Eucharist Ministers are Francis Riha, Barbara Jirak, Craig Hosting and Theresa Ryan. Presenting the offertory gifts will be Lori Fisher and Mary Pat Williams. Organist will be Mary Dietzenbach accompanying the St. Mary's Choir.  

Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Waucoma with Lisa McEnaney, David Rausch, JoEllen Bridgewater, Peter Heying, Daniel John Riha, Roger Croatt and Jerry Jirak as pallbearers. 

Friends may greet the family 3 - 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 21st at St. Mary's Church in Waucoma, where there will be a 3 p.m. Rosary. Further visitation continues one hour prior to the Mass, Monday at the church.

Funeral arrangements are with Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton.  Online condolences for Daniel's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com. 

Daniel Michael Riha was born May 30, 1937, in Hawkeye, the son of Frank and Mary (Franzen) Riha. He received his education at St. Mary’s Grade School in Waucoma and then attended the Waucoma High School.  On June 18, 1960, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waucoma, he married Shirley Wichman.  To this union three sons were born.  Dan owned two milk trucks, picking up can milk in the Waucoma area, until 1976. Dan then began selling Moorman Feed and was a substitute bus driver for the Turkey Valley School District.  In 1977, he started driving truck for United Building Center in West Union and a year later began helping in the New Hampton UBC.  He retired in 2006.

Dan was a long time commissioned Town Marshall for the city of Waucoma, an active 4-H leader, and a fifty year member of the Catholic Order of Foresters.  He had a passion for collecting toys. He was an active member at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waucoma, having taught religion, serving on the Parish Council, the Parish Finance Committee and served Mass for funerals. He will be dearly missed by family and friends alike.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Shirley; three sons, Mike (Maggie) Riha of Woodbridge, Virginia, Mark (Susan) Riha of Altus, OK and Myron (Debbie) Riha of Sedalia, MO; three grandchildren, Steven Riha, Michelle Harris and Merlenda Harris; one great-grandchild, Geroge Michael;  his mother-in-law; Clara Wichman of New Hampton; two brothers, Leonard (Millie) Riha of Madison, WI, Francis (Jeannie) Riha of Waucoma; one sister, Barbara (Jim) Jirak of Little Turkey; his in-laws, Verena Croatt of West Union, Agnes Riha of Decorah and Mary Riha of Cresco; brother-in-law, Gary (Sally) Wichman of Gilbertville; sister-in-laws, Judy (Ed) Heying of Chandler, AZ, Joyce (Steve) Kuennen of Waucoma, Harriet (Ron) Dabler of Marion,  and Beverly (Leon) Heying of Lexington, SC.   He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, James Croatt, Edward Riha and Matthias Riha; two sisters, Loretta Rausch and Angela Brannon; father-in-law, Clarence Wichman; three brothers-in-law, Alex Rausch, William Brannon and Dale Wichman.

Matilda "Matty" Gebel dies at 98

Posted: Thursday, October 18, 2012

Matilda "Matty" Gebel, age 98, of New Hampton, died Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at New Hampton Nursing and Rehab Center.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m., on Saturday, October 20, 2012 with a 9:30 a.m. Rosary at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton.  Memorials may be directed to the family.  Online condolences for Matty’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 20, 2012 at Holy Family Parish – St. Mary’s Center in New Hampton with Msgr. Carl Schmitt celebrating.  Burial will be held at a later date.
Matilda “Matty” Marie Gebel was born on September 1, 1914 to John and Susanna (Kapler) Huber on the family farm in Spillville.  She attended Spillville High School. On November 3, 1937 Matty was united in marriage to Gregory N. Gebel at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville.  The couple made their home in New Hampton where they raised their only daughter, Sheila.  In 1962, Matty received her diploma from Millinery Design Academy in Rutherford, NJ.  This was the beginning of her lifelong career custom designing fashion hats.  Matty’s last hat was a black fur pillbox hat which she created in 2007 at the age of 92.  Matty’s hats were individual masterpieces but she also enjoyed spending time oil painting.  Aside from her custom millinery creations and painting, Matty cared for her aging mother for 18 years along with the help of her sister Lucille.  She was a member of Holy Family Parish – St. Mary’s Center, was a past president of the Rosary Society, was a member of the St. Mary’s card club, Catholic Daughters, St. Mary’s Choir, she taught Catechism Classes and was the first layperson to give communion at St. Mary’s.
Matty is survived by her granddaughters, Jennifer and Elizabeth Currie; one great-grandson, Chance Sirvant; her siblings; Daniel Huber of New Hampton, Geneva Becker of Cresco and Angela (Bill) Ellis of Reads Landing, Minn.; one sister-in-law, Marie Huber of New Hampton and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gregory on February 9, 1975; her daughter, Sheila Currie; her siblings, Viola (Bill) Tupy, Richard (Mae) Huber, Lucille (Bill) Wall and John N. Huber; one sister-in-law, Elizabeth Huber and one brother-in-law, Leander Becker.

Monica “Mike” Faas dies at 80

Posted: Thursday, October 18, 2012

Monica “Mike” Faas, age 80, of Stacyville, died Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2012, north of Osage of natural causes. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 22, 2012, at Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville with Msgr. John Hemann officiating. Burial will be in Visitation Catholic Cemetery. Friends may greet the family from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville with a rosary at 3:30 p.m. and a scripture wake service at 6 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour before services at the church on Monday.  

Monica was born June 7, 1932, in Osage, the daughter of Joseph and Mabel (Weinberger) Rogers. On November 16, 1954, Monica married John Faas. 

Monica is survived by her children, David (Cathy) Faas of Racine, Minnsota, Diane (Mark) Beckman of New Hampton, Daniel (Robin) Faas of Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Denise (Bruce) Mayer of Stacyville, Donald Faas of San Francisco, California, Debra (Warren) Davis of Fort Dodge,  Darrell Faas of Owatonna, Minnesota, Doreen (Rodney) Bries of Monona;    a daughter-in-law, Julie Faas of Salinas, California; honorary daughter, Sabine (Florian) Franke of Germany; 21 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren;five sisters, Marie Boerjan of St. Ansgar, Eileen Kleckner of Osage, Lorraine (Joe) Prokopec and Kathleen (Jim) Prokopec, all of Owatonna, Minnesota, Marilyn (Bob) Doyle of Melrose, Minnesota;three brothers, Galen Rogers of Austin, Minnesota,  Gerald Rogers of Osage, Brother Damian Rogers, O.S.B., of Collegeville, Minnesota; and four sisters-in-law.

She was preceded in death by her parents;her husband, John in 2008; her son, Douglas Faas, in 1996;and three brothers, Clair, Maurice and Marvin Rogers. 

Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com
Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, 641-732-3706

Ruth Ann Dohlman dies at 65

Posted: Monday, October 22, 2012

Ruth Ann Dohlman age 65 of New Hampton died Thursday afternoon, Oct. 18, 2012, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City after a lengthy illness.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 22, 2012 at First Presbyterian Church, Le Roy, Minnesota with Chaplain David Byrd presiding. Interment will be at Le Roy Cemetery, with Clint Dohlman, Shannon Dohlman, Ryan Throckmorton, Greg Havlik, Brian Stone, and Andrew Allen serving as pallbearers. Honorary Pallbearers are Tyler Dohlman, Becky Havlik, Rachel Stone, Jeanie Terwilliger, Jennifer Ptacek, Kelly Bucknell, Brandy Allen, and Heidi Bouzek. 

Friends may greet the family 4 - 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012 at the Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the church in Le Roy on Monday.  Online condolences for Ruth's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Ruth was born on May 2, 1947 in Aplington, Iowa the daughter of Eime and Irene (Lindaman) Dohlman. She attended rural country school near Le Roy, Minnesota. Ruth graduated from Riceville High School in 1965. After graduation Ruth took a job with Hillandale Farms in New Hampton. She worked for the company for over forty years, retiring in 2007. 

Ruth loved gardening and tending to her flowers. She also had a passion for crocheting, collecting dolls, going to bingo, and attending garage sales. Every year Ruth looked forward to going to Paradise Point Resort on Leech Lake. 

Survivors include two brothers, Dennis (Carla Greenlee) Dohlman of Bristow,  and Bob (Julie) Dohlman of Chester; two sisters, Mavis (Jerry) Ptacek of Fredericksburg, and Carol (Dale) Throckmorton of Wykoff, Minn; one sister-in-law, Renae Dohlman of Le Roy, Minn, along with many nieces and nephews. 
She was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Jeff Dohlman.

Betty Paulsen dies at 84

Posted: Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Betty Paulsen, 84, of New Hampton, and previously from rural Clarksville, died Saturday, Oct. 20, 2012, at the New Hampton Care Center.

Betty was born on June 4, 1928, the daughter of Earl William and Loretta Marie (Flood) Sohle, in Des Moines.  She attended school at Waverly and graduated in 1946, and then attended Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls.  On October 20, 1950, she was united in marriage to Merle J. Paulsen at the Little Brown Church, Nashua.  The couple moved to their farm home near Clarksville, were they raised their family.  Not only was Betty a loving wife and mother, but she also worked as a bookkeeper for Eclipse in Plainfield and Shell Rock, and as a secretary for Butzlaff and McKee Real Estate.

Betty was a member of the Plainfield United Methodist Church.  She enjoyed making wooden doll houses for grandchildren, home decorating, and playing cards.  She was a 4-H leader, a former active member of Bremer County Women’s Farm Bureau, and a member of the Women’s Culture Club.  She liked to watch local high school sporting events, as well as basketball and football on television.  She was very proud of her Judo and self defense skills!  She also spent hours researching and documenting family genealogy.
Betty is survived by her two children; Kathy (Bill) Palmersheim of New Hampton, and Dean (Gwen) Paulsen of rural Clarksville; four grandchildren, Shanna Palmersheim, Sara (Matt) Schillerstrom, Jeff (Ashley) Palmersheim, and Christie Paulsen; and three great-grandchildren, Sophia and Viola Schillerstrom, and Jaydon Palmersheim.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Merle, in 1999.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2012, at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly, with Chaplain Dave Byrd from Iowa Hospice officiating.  Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 26, 2012, from 5 to 8 pm, at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly.  Burial will be at Willow Lawn Cemetery in Plainfield.  Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.  Online condolences may be left at www.kaisercorson.com.  Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly is assisting the family.  319-352-1187

Betty Marie Miller dies at 72

Posted: Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Betty Marie Miller, age 72, of Shell Rock, died Saturday, Oct. 20, 2012, at her home after a courageous 2-yr battle with pancreatic cancer.

Betty was born on December 25, 1939 in Plainfield, the daughter of Detmer and Gladys (Courbat) Jacobs.  She was baptized on February 29, 1948 and confirmed on April 11, 1954, both at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Clarksville.  Betty started Shell Rock Elementary in 1945 and later graduated from Shell Rock High School in 1958. On October 16, 1960, Betty was united in marriage to Gary E. Miller at Faith Lutheran Church in Shell Rock.   Betty worked for the Waverly Chamber of Commerce from 1963 to 1965, owned and operated BJ’s Plants and Plastercraft from 1978 to 1982, and then for the Waverly Newspapers from 1984 until retiring in 1998.

Betty was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Shell Rock.  Betty enjoyed cross-stitching, baking, knitting, and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan.  But above all, she loved spending time with her beloved grandchildren and cheering for them in all of their different activities. 

Betty’s memory is honored by: her husband of 52 years, Gary E. Miller of Shell Rock; two sons, Mark D. Miller of Waverly and Kevin E. (Kim) Miller of Waverly; a daughter, Kendra (Brett) Knowlton of New Hampton; seven grandchildren, Jordan, Garret, Jentry, and Adam Miller and Tanner, Bailey, and Evan Knowlton; and two sisters, Ruth Ruth of Waverly and Marlys (John) Bauler of Hudson.  She was preceded in death by: her parents; a brother, James Jacobs; a sister, Deborah Jacobs; a brother-in-law, Ed Ruth; and in-laws, Bill and Faith Miller.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 24, at Faith Lutheran Church in Shell Rock.  Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Shell Rock.  Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 23, at Faith Lutheran Church in Shell Rock where the family will greet friends from 4 to 7 p.m.  Memorials may be directed to Betty’s family and online condolences may be left at www.kaisercorson.com.

Larry E. Springer dies at 76

Updated: October 29, 2012

Larry E. Springer age 76 of Nashua, Iowa died Saturday evening Oct. 27, 2012 at Hospice of North Iowa in Mason City.
 
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Oct. 31, 2012 at the Little Brown Church, Nashua with Rev. James Mann officiating.  Betty Orric will be the organist accompanying the congregation and Kyle Brown playing the DOBRO.  
 
Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Nashua with Zachary Brown, Andy Lawrance, Corey Metzger, Todd Christianson, Jacob Cafourek, Evan Kruger, Steven Springer and Beau Martin as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Philip Bullock, Jr. Patrick Bullock, Amanda Bullock and Sarah Bullock.  
 
Friends may greet the family 4 - 8 p.m. Tuesday Oct. 30, 2012 at the Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua. Visitation continues one hour prior to the service at the church. Online condolences for Larry's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com   
 
Larry Earl Springer was born December 10, 1935, in Chickasaw County, the son of Earl Laurence and Melinda (Littauer) Springer.  He was raised on their farm east of Nashua.  He attended Castor Country School and graduated from the Nashua High School.  While in high school, Larry received an Iowa Farmer Degree. He also showed Herford Cattle at the county fair. 
 
In 1954, he was united in marriage to Ardith Stille and also started farming and working at Hydrotile.  He worked for Hydrotile for 38 years in addition to custom farming.  He was an active community member and was involved in many things, including The Old Bradford Historical Museum, Big Four Fair Board and 4-H.  He was the leader of the Bradford Eager Beavers and an original board member of the Nashua Trail Riders Association.  Larry had a wedding carriage service and drove in the “Brach’s Holiday Parade” in Chicago.  He was always very proud to be active in the Pony Express Riders, raising money for Camp Sunnyside.
 
In 1998, Larry was united in marriage to his beloved Leatha.  They had a 17 year childhood friendship, living across the road from each other.
 
Larry fathered six children, but claimed nine with the blended family.  He loved spending time restoring Massey Harris Tractors, loved his cattle and horses, but most of all spending time with family and friends.  He and Leatha rarely missed a birthday party, wedding, graduation, concert, ballgame or dance recital.
 
Larry is survived by his wife of 14 years, Leatha; 9 children, Connie (Gary) Lawrance of Madrid, Jeff (Lynda) Springer of Cresco, Carla (Mark) Fox of Des Moines, Leigh Ann Springer-Bullock of Dripping Springs, Texas, Jason (Julie) Springer of Madrid; Connie Kruger of Rochester, MN, Kelly (Kyle) Brown of Jefferson City, MO, Robin Carroll of Perry, MO, and Lanessa Garmann (Jacob Cafourek) of Harrisburg, MO; 21 grandchildren and one on the way; 5 great-grandchildren and one on the way; two sisters, Earlyn Adelmund of Nashua and Charlotte (Dave) Junker of Nashua.
 
He is preceded in death by his mother Melinda; father and step-mother, Earl and Helen Springer; step-sisters, Mary Helen Ohl and Virginia Minikus; two brothers in infancy.

Arthur Ouderkerk dies at 70

Posted: Monday, October 29, 2012

Arthur Ouderkerk age 70 of Nashua died Saturday morning, October 27, 2012, at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton.
 
Arrangements are pending at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Nashua. 641-435-4134  
 
Online condolences for Arthur's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com

Michelle Lee (Hyde) Schulmeister dies at 33

Posted: Monday, October 29, 2012

Michelle Lee (Hyde) Schulmeister passed away on Sunday, Oct. 28, 2012, at Cedar Valley Hospice in Waterloo.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012, at 11 p.m. at Faith Evangelical Church in Sumner.  

Public visitation will be held from 4 until 7 p.m.on Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2012, at S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in Sumner.  

Michelle Lee (Hyde) Schulmeister of Waverly, formerly of Sumner and Oelwein, was born on November 16, 1979, to Patrick Hyde and Lorna Wendt at Mercy Hospital in New Hampton, Iowa.   

Michelle graduated from Tripoli High School in 1998. She continued her education at NICC in Calmar and became a Registered Nurse in 2005. After graduation, she worked for Covenant Hospital in Waterloo, Hillcrest Home in Sumner, Tripoli Nursing Home and most recently Grandview Nursing Home in Waverly.   

She was united in marriage on June 2, 2001, to Bryan Schulmeister at Faith Evangelical Church in Sumner. One son, Shayne Schulmeister was born to this union.    

Michelle loved spending time with her son, and enjoyed music and sports.   

Michelle is survived by her son, Shayne Schulmeister of Waverly; parents, Patrick Hyde of Sumner, and Lorna Wendt of Fredericksburg; grandparents, Betty Wendt of New Hampton, and Frank and Ila Hyde of Waverly;  and several cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.    

She is preceded in death by her husband, Bryan Schulmeister, and maternal grandfather, Lynford Wendt.   

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in Sumner is in charge of the arrangements.   

Online condolences may be left at www.skrogersfuneralhome.com.

Marcella R. Wurzer dies at 94

Posted: Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Marcella R. Wurzer age 94 of Lawler, Iowa died Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2012, at the New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday Nov. 3, 2012 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler with Rev. Nick March officiating. Placing the pall will be Marcella's children. Bob Huinker will be the organist with Deb Speltz accompanying the congregation in song. Bryan Odeen will also accompany with guitar. Presenting the offertory gifts will be Marcella's sons, Kevin and Norman Wurzer. Lectors for the service are Nancy Klipfel and McKenna Reicks. Mass servers are Kameron Jirak and Landon Wurzer.

Interment will be in the church cemetery with Curtis Reicks, Scott Bush, Wade Wurzer, Ryan Kriener, Marcy Klipfel and Trent Lienau as pallbearers.

Friends may greet the family 3 - 8 p.m. Friday Nov. 2, 2012, at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton, where there will be a 4 p.m. Rosary and a 7 p.m. Scripture Service. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the mass at the church on Saturday.

Marcella Rose Wurzer was born near St. Lucas, on May 6, 1918, the daughter of John and Mathilda (Kruse) Ameling. She attended St. Lukes School in St. Lucas. On June 20, 1939, Marcella was united in marriage to Tony Wurzer at St. Lukes Catholic Church in St. Lucas. The couple farmed south of Lawler where they lived for over 50 years and raised seven children. 

Marcella loved to play cards. She and her husband, Tony, belonged to a card club for over 40 years and loved the special times and friends they made along the years. She had a passion for growing flowers, especially African Violets. This hobby went hand in hand with her love of gardening, quilting, baking, especially butter horns, and sewing. She was extremely talented with her hobbies. Marcella sewed her daughters’ bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses as well as many prom dresses throughout the years. With her husband, she enjoyed trips to Germany, Washington D.C., Hawaii, and Mexico. She also enjoyed a trip to San Diego to visit a granddaughter. A particularly memorable trip was to Colorado to visit a granddaughter where Marcella became stranded on the interstate for seven hours due to bad weather, yet she still had a good time. Marcella was a member of our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Lawler and a 50 year member of the Catholic Daughters of America.

Marcella will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She touched many hearts with her caring and thoughtfulness. She was a very gracious hostess and made sure no one left her house hungry.

Marcella is survived by four daughters, Shirley Bush of Cedar Rapids, Barbara Jean (Harry) Reicks of St. Lucas, Janice (Ron) Kriener of Waverly, Joyce (Joe) Gitch of Coralville; two sons, Norman (Jill) of Fredericksburg and Kevin of Waterloo; son-in-law, Jack (Deb) Leinau of Jesup; 21 grandchildren, Scott Bush, Curtis, Lanette "Lonnie" and Merle Reicks, Tootie Viggers, Paula Jirak, Jenny Koudelka, Wade and Landon Wurzer, Renee Mason, Natalie Wurzer Seepers, Kim Woodin, Holly Maas, Ryan Kriener, Marcy Klipfel, Jessica Meisner, Trent, Shane, Tyler and Carson Lienau, and Danica Barfels; 32 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Arlene Huinker of Calmar and Bernice Einck of Cedar Falls; in- laws, Alma Ameling of St.Lucas, Ida Ameling of Ft. Atkinson and Collete Ameling of West Union, Alvina Murray of Lawler, Irma Hageman of Lawler, Rosaria Einck of Festina, Alma Hemesath of Ossian, “Sis” Wurzer of Waucoma, Francis (Margaret) and Carl Wurzer of Lawler, Doris (Alvin) Smith of Ft. Atkinson, and Sister Theophane Wurzer of Lowell, MI.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tony (1991), a daughter, Diane (1995), son-in-law, Dave Bush, grandson-in-law, Shane Milano, and a great-grandson Will Wurzer Seepers; sister, Viola Mihm; and six brothers, Joe, Clarence, Richard, Felix, Alfred, and Irvin Ameling.