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

Obituary Archive

Howard County

Cresco Times-Plain Dealer
 
214 North Elm Street
Cresco Iowa
52136-1522

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Alvin Drilling

Alvin Joseph Drilling, 69, died of cancer Friday at Hospice Kavanagh House in Des Moines. The body was cremated and burial will be at a later date.

Alvin was born in Cresco and had lived in the Des Moines area most of his life. He was a retired warehouseman for Fairco AGI Foods in Ankeny and was a member of Holy Trinity Funeral Choir, Catholic Order of Foresters and the Teamsters union.

Survivors include his wife Delores; three sons: Tom of Madrid, Steve of Albuquerque, NM and Dave of Harcourt; four daughters: Diane Doro of Des Moines, Donna Drilling-Chiaro of Tucson, AZ, Theresa Drilling of Glenwood and Denise Frederick of Florence SC; 12 grandchildren; two brothers: Bob of Clive and Vern of Minneapolis, MN; and three sisters: Dorothy Drilling of Waterloo, Eilene Drilling of Anoka and Loraine


John Gardner

Funeral services for John Gardner of Elma were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 4 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma. The Rev. Roger R. Rethamel and the Rev. Frank Benda officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Elma. Brian Palmersheim, Christy Brandt, Cassie Gardner, Sara Gardner and Kim Stoddard placed the pall. Pall bearers were: Kerry McLachian, Joe McLachian, Steve Gardner, Andy Gardner, John Gardner, David Gardner, Jesse Einck, Brad Gardner, Brian Palmersheim, Nick Webster, Jeremy Gardner, Nick Palmersheim, Christopher Gardner, Michael Gardner and Charles Gardner. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

John, 82, died Saturday, January 1, 2000 at his home in Elma of natural causes.

John Paul Gardner was born January 16, 1917 near Elma, the son of William and Mamie (Butler) Gardner. He graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy in 1935. After his graduation, at the age of 22 he joined the U.S. Army Air Corp during WWII and was assigned to the 459th Bomber Group. He was shot down over Germany and was a prisoner of war for 11 months. After being honorably discharged, he returned to the Elma area to work on the family farm.

John married Vivian Hermanson. He retired from farming in 1978 and moved to Elma in 1986.

Survivors include two daughters: Ann Bunten of Harvard, IL, and Mary Jane Palmersheim of Elma; nine sons: James of El Salvador, William of Crystal Lake, MN, Thomas of Cedar Rapids, Greg of Mason City, Charles of Robins, Patrick of Cedar Rapids, Kevin of Chicago, IL, Nicholas of Marion, and Randall also of Marion; 30 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one sister: Sister Mary Lenore of Earlville; and two brothers: Fred of Elma and Frank of Currie, MN.

John was preceded in death by his wife Vivian on December 22, 1986; one son: Leon Richard on November 22, 1992; his parents; three brothers: Linus, George and Joe; and one sister: Marie Gardner.

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Ruth Bauercamper

A private committal service for Ruth Bauercamper was held at Oak Lawn Cemetery on January 4 with the Rev. Lewis Flanigan, pastor of the Cresco United Methodist Church, officiating. A memorial service for friends and family will be held at Cresco United Methodist Church on March 11. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Ruth, 88, died Saturday, January 1, 2000 at Evans Memorial Home in Cresco where she had lived for nearly eight years.

Ruth W. Bauercamper was born March 14, 1911 on her parent’s farm in Albion Township, Howard County, the daughter of John F. and Katherine (Schumann) Walter. Ruth graduated from Cresco High School in 1928 and attended Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa) obtaining certification in elementary education. She taught school in Cresco and Monticello for several years prior to her marriage.

She was an active member of the United Methodist Church and the Order of the Eastern Star for many years.

On July 7, 1940 she married Ralph Charles Bauercamper at her parent’s home in Cresco.

Survivors include one son: John of Waukon; one daughter: Marilyn Matthes of Naples, FL; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Ralph; one great-granddaughter; her parents; and three sisters: Josephine Powers, Luverna Stevens and Mabel Schild.

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Marcella Hamann

Funeral services for Marcella Hamann of Chester were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 6 at the Chester United Methodist Church. The Rev. Robert Holdorf officiated. Interment was in the Chester Hill Cemetery at Chester. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Marcella, 86, died Sunday, January 2, 2000 at the St. John’s Lutheran Home in Albert Lea, MN.

Marcella was born July 16, 1913 in Spring Valley, MN, the daughter of John and Laura Milbrath. In 1920 her family moved to the Chester community and she attended country school through the eighth grade. She graduated from Chester Public School in 1932.

On June 10, 1936 she married Herbert Hamann. They lived on the Hamann farm until 1940 when they moved to a farm about one mile away. They farmed until 1979 then moved to LeRoy, MN.

Marcella joined the Chester United Methodist Church in 1933 and was an active member. She was a Sunday School teacher, choir member, MYF leadership and church custodian.

Her hobbies were gardening, playing cards, and putting together scrapbooks. As an amateur historian, she compiled a history of the Chester United Methodist Church and in 1958 wrote the history of the town of Chester.

Survivors include one daughter: Ann of Fairfax, VA; and one sister: Joan Schonsby of Austin, MN.

Marcella was preceded in death by her husband Herbert in 1987; her parents; five sisters, and a step-brother.

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Gilbert Wolf

Funeral services for Gilbert “Gib” Wolf were held at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 5 at Notre Dame Parish, St. Joseph’s Worship Center. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Gilbert, 89, died Sunday, January 2, 2000 at his home in Cresco.

Gilbert Kenneth Wolf was born August 23, 1910 in Sterling, IL, the son of Albert and Elizabeth (Jacobs) Wolf.

On August 27, 1938 he married Harriet De Jarlais in Carlton, MN. Throughout his life, he worked in road construction at various locations. He retired in 1979 from S.J. Groves & Sons as a general foreman in Farmer City, IL. Upon his retirement, he and his wife relocated to Cresco.

Gib enjoyed taking long walks every morning and afternoon throughout town.

Survivors include two sons: Ronald of Owatonna, MN, and Gilbert Jr. of Crystal Lake, IL; three daughters: Sherry Sherfy of Cresco, Gert Kneeskern of Richland, and Deb Wilkins of Fort Dodge; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one brother: Elden of Dona, TX; and three sisters: Irma Fryberger of Chico, CA, Joyce Fryberger of Auburn, CA, and Myrna Bloomquist of Cloquet, MN.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his wife, Harriet on October 28, 1994; one grandchild; three great-grandchildren; three brothers: Lyle, Dorn, and Harold; and three sisters: Evelyn Peterson, Gertrude Wolf, and Bea Sacrelos.

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Gary Piper

Funeral services for Gary Piper of Ionia were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 8 at United Methodist Church in Fredericksburg. The Rev. Nan Tomlinson officiated. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Duane Douglas Sr., Louis Douglas, Reuben Douglas, Tim Bathke, Chris Havlik, and Jeff Leach. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Gary, 35, died Monday, January 3, 2000 at his home in Ionia of natural causes.

Gary Dallas Piper was born September 9, 1964 in Florence, CO, the son of Earl and Betty (Helfrich) Piper. He graduated from Dodge City Senior High in 1983 and while in school became a machinist through S.W. VoTech. He also placed second in the world in Little Britches (High School version of the PRCA). He worked for Winter Feed Yard in Dodge City, KS as a mill operator.

On July 20, 1985 he married Angela Douglas at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in New Hampton. After their marriage, they resided in Dodge City until September of 1987 when they moved back to New Hampton. He went to work for Featherlite in Cresco. In May of 1988, he went to work for Gail Bierman at the Truck Stop. In May of 1990 he began working at New Hampton Metal Fabrication where he was currently working.

Survivors include his wife Angela of New Hampton; two daughters: Dietschia and Shyla both of New Hampton; his mother Betty Nielson; his father Earl Piper; four brothers: Kenny of Kansas, Steve and Jeff both of Oklahoma, and Rick of Arizona; three sisters: Jana, Sherlyn and Lisa all of Kansas.

Gary was preceded in death by one sister, Tammy.

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Lucille Carolan

Funeral services for Lucille Carolan of Decorah were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 6 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Decorah. The Rev. Gary Krapfl officiated. Interment was in St. Benedict’s Catholic Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Norb Bohr, Jim Beckman, Eric Wikan, Dave Sorum, and Wayne Wicks. Honorary pall bearers were: Bob Dotseth, Lester Engen, Norman Wheeler, Ray Rovang, Joe Hemesath, and Duane Snyder. French & Balik Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Lucille, 91, died Monday, January 3, 2000 at Barthell Eastern Star Nursing Home in Decorah following a lengthy illness.

Lucille Carolan was born April 10, 1908 near Canton, MN, the daughter of Ole and Anna (McCabe) Anderson. She attended Assumption High School in Cresco, and graduated from Our Lady of Angels Academy in Clinton on June 3, 1927. Lucille then attended the Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls and taught school in Winneshiek County.

On May 18, 1936 she married Robert P. Carolan at Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. They farmed near Frankville until 1985 when they moved to Decorah. Lucille had resided at the Barthell Eastern Star Home since 1997.

Lucille was a member of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church and the Catholic Daughters of America.

Survivors include one daughter: Martha Thompson of West Chester, PA; one son: Robert F. Carolan of Mendota Heights, MN; four grandchildren; three sisters: Teresa Vachta, Gertrude Bigalk both of Cresco, and Agnes Beckman of Harmony, MN.

Lucille was preceded in death by her husband Robert T. on December 18, 1999; one granddaughter; her parents; and six brothers: Clarence, Gregory, Francis, Leo, Garnett and Orville.

 

 

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Clement Ryan

Funeral services for Clement Ryan were held at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, January 6 at Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Clement, 92, died Monday, January 3, 2000 at Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco.

Clement G. Ryan was born May 16, 1907 in Winneshiek County, the son of George F. and Stasia (Doherty) Ryan. He attended rural schools in Winneshiek County. He did factory work in Chicago and then road construction in the Winneshiek County area.

On June 10, 1937 he married Ruth Albertson at St. Agnes church at Plymouth Rock. They farmed in Winneshiek County then moved to their present farm in Howard County in 1944.

Survivors include his wife Ruth; one daughter: Edna Huss of Jesup; two sons: Wayne and Norbert both of Cresco; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one brother: Francis of Cresco.

Clement was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers: Gerald, Floyd, Phillip and Clarence; and four sisters: Leone, Angie, Madeline and Gladys.

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Emil Panos

Funeral services for Emil Panos of Protivin were held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 7 at the Holy Trinity Worship Center in Protivin. The Rev. Allen Schmitt officiated. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Little Turkey. Honorary pall bearers were his five sons-in-law: Joe Schwickerath, Ron Hackman, Marshall Meier, Kevin Alexander, and Connie Langreck. Hugeback Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Emil, 76, died Tuesday, January 4 at his home of natural causes.

Emil J. Panos was born March 9, 1923 near Little Turkey, the son of Albert J. and Mary (Riha) Panos. He attended Utica #6 rural country school.

On August 28, 1945 he married Adelyne Klimesh at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin. Following their marriage, the couple lived and farmed near Little Turkey on the farm Emil was raised on. He started doing carpentry work in 1956 while they were on the farm. In 1963 Emil started Panos Construction. He continued farming until 1966 and moved into Protivin in 1967 retiring when he was 64.

He enjoyed playing cards, fishing, video games, traveling, and gardening.

Survivors include his wife Adelyne; three sons: Gary, Jim and Ken all of Protivin; five daughters: Norma Hackman of Waucoma, Margaret Bell of Council Bluffs, Arlene Meier of Brookfield, WI, Marion Alexander of Waterloo, Rose Ann Schwickerath of New Hampton; 27 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Emil was preceded in death by one daughter: Geraldine Langreck in 1999; his parents; three sisters: Mildred Gebel, Celia Schwamman and Clara Franzen; and two brothers: Adolph and Leonard.

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Howard Knudsen

Funeral services for Howard Knudsen were held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 7 at the Newburg United Methodist Church in Newburg. The Rev. Burton Hoag officiated. Interment was in Newburg Cemetery. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Howard, 81, died Tuesday, January 4, 2000 at the LaCrosse Lutheran Hospital in LaCrosse, WI.

Howard Willis Knudsen was born August 11, 1918 in Canton Township, Fillmore Co. MN, the son of Vernon and Dorothy (Pederson) Knudsen. He was baptized and confirmed and a life long member of the Newburg United Methodist Church. He attended Newburg and Canton Public Schools, and the school of auctioneering at Mason City. He was a truck driver, a farmer and a very well known auctioneer in southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa areas. He loved auctioneering and donated many hours to area churches, bazaars and many community benefits.

On August 15, 1948 he married June Hahn in Preston, MN.

Howard was preceded in death by his wife June on November 25, 1981; his parents; and three brothers: Chellis, Dale and Warren

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Juliet Kratz

Funeral services for Juliet Kratz were held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, January 7 at Orleans Lutheran Church in Ridgeway. The Rev. Phillip Olson and Rev. Ginny Olson officiated. Interment was in New Oregon Cemetery in Cresco. Pall bearers were: Randy Cray, Dale Gesell, Gary Hovden, John Lubke, Tom Ryan and Mark Thomson. Fjelstul Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Juliet, 87, died Tuesday, January 4, 2000 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN.

Juliet Amanda Kratz was born October 6, 1912 at home in Lincoln Township in Winneshiek County, the daughter of John Endre and Ane Jacobina (Nali) Hopperstad. She was baptized on October 27, 1912 at Lincoln Lutheran Church and confirmed on September 4, 1927 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring Grove, MN.

She attended rural schools in Lincoln Township, attended Ridgeway High School for three years, then transfered to Cresco High School for normal training to complete her teaching certificate. She attended Luther College taking a number of education courses.

On June 10, 1936 she married Leonard S. Kratz at First Lutheran Church in Cresco. They lived on Juliet’s home farm north of Ridgeway.

She taught in her home school, Lincoln No. 6, at New Oregon Township School in Howard County, at Gilbertson School in Madison Township and at Kendallville rural school in Fremont Township.

She helped Jarla Clauson of Decorah compile the history of rural education in Winneshiek County.

Juliet was a member of Orleans Lutheran Church and was a past president of the Ladies Aid. She loved gardening, reading, needlework, and was a very good cook.

Survivors include two daughters: Carol Thomson of Punta Gorda, FL and Deanna Codner of Clarkdale, AZ; one son: Douglas of Boone; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and one brother: Lester Hopperstad of LaCrosse, WI.

Juliet was preceded in death by her husband Leonard on January 21, 1999; her parents; four brothers: Kenneth, Gilbert, Ernest and Johnnie and one sister: Margaret Farnsworth.

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Giles Riniker

Funeral services for Giles J. Riniker of Cresco were held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 8, at the St. Joseph’s Worship Center with interment in Calvary Cemetery. The Rev. Michael L. Tauke officiated and Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Giles, 70, died Wednesday, January 5, 2000 at his home in Cresco.

Giles Joseph Riniker was born November 19, 1929 in Winneshiek County near Cresco the son of John C. and Frances (Shemmel) Riniker. He attended rural school.

Giles was the area salesman for Watkins Products for over 45 years.

He enjoyed reading and was a lifetime member of the St. Joseph Church.

He is survived by one brother, Paul Riniker of Cresco; and one sister, Catherine Reicks of Cresco.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Cletus and Lawrence.

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Marie Zoeckler

Services for Marie Zoeckler of Davenport were held January 8 at Runge Mortuary and Crematory. Burial was in Davenport Memorial Park.

Marie, 104, died Thursday, January 6, 2000 at Genesis Medical Center-East Campus in Davenport.

Marie Rose Zoeckler was born May 11, 1895 in Cresco the daughter of Gottfried and Lisette (Leuenburger) Lienhard. She was a clerk at several area bakeries in her early years, also a homemaker.

On June 18, 1918 she married Ray Howard, and they divorced. On August 29, 1952 she married Wilton Zoeckler in Davenport.

Marie was a long time member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Davenport, and a member of Davenport Women’s Club. She enjoyed gardening, birds, cards and bingo.

Survivors include one daughter: Phyllis Sinksen of Rock Island; one son: Russell Howard of Sun City, AZ; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; one brother: Fred of Ft. Pierce, FL; two sisters: Mina Batten of Davenport, and Charlotte Rink of Cresco.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband Wilton on December 13, 1970; her parents; two brothers: Walter and Otto; and one sister: Lydia Evans all of Cresco.

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Michael Pitz

Funeral services for Michael Pitz of Cresco were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 10 at the Conway Funeral Home in New Hampton. The Rev. Carol Christianson officiated. Interment was in New Hampton Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Marvin Butters, James Blomgren, Mike Hobkirk, Rick Ohrtman, Kevin Robson and Tim Hinck.

Michael, 37, died Thursday, January 6, 2000 at his mothers home in Elma.

Michael Robert Pitz was born February 1, 1962 at New Hampton, the son of Robert and Yvonne (Dowd) Pitz. He received his schooling at New Hampton High School and later attended area schools in Calmar and Cedar Rapids. After serving with the U.S. Navy, he worked with computers before working in roof construction. He recently has been employed by Featherlite Corp. in Cresco.

Survivors include his mother Yvonne of Elma, his father Robert of Kellogg; one son: Jason Funk of Conrad; two sisters: Julie Dockendorf of Elma, and Lori Cody of Suffolk, VA; two brothers: Jim of Colwell and Garth Bock of Montana.

Michael was preceded in death by one sister, Roberta Pitz, in infancy.

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Olga Hopkins

A Remembrance Service will be held 1:30 p.m. Saturday, January 22 at Conway Funeral Home in Elma. The Rev. Catherine Luck and Dr. Douglas England will officiate. Inurnment will be in Howard Cemetery in Elma. The family will be present at the funeral home one hour before the service for visitation.

Olga, 97, died Saturday, January 8, 2000 at Colonial Manor Home in Elma.

Olga Marie Hopkins was born January 3, 1903 near Chester, the daughter of George R. and Dagmar Marie (Nielsen) Larsen. She was a graduate of LeRoy High School and completed her education at Winona State Teachers College in Winona, MN. Olga taught in the elementary school at Ostrander, MN.

On June 18, 1928 she married Ralph Hopkins at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco. She and her husband moved to Elma in 1936 where they owned and operated Hopkins Hatchery until their retirement December 31, 1965. They moved to Rochester, MN after retirement and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary June 18, 1978 in Elma. Olga has made her home in Colonial Manor since February of 1990.

Survivors include one daughter: Joyce Elaine Hart of Elma; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one sister: Besse Cook of Redwood City, CA.

Olga was preceded in death by her husband Ralph who died on April 25, 1983; her parents; one sister: Stella Johnson; and three brothers: Hans, Karl and Elmer.

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Lucille Forkenbrock

Funeral services for Lucille Forkenbrock of New Hampton will be held at 10:30 a.m. (today) Wednesday, January 12 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in New Hampton. The Rev. Marvin Salz will officiate. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in New Hampton. The pall will be placed on the casket by her two sons. Pall bearers will be: Don Winter, Don Blazek, John Wandersheid, Tom McGowan, Norb Shileny and Don Blazek Jr. Larkin-Martin-Hugeback Funeral Home will handle the arrangements.

Lucille, 87, died Saturday, January 8, 2000 at her home following a lengthy illness.

Lucille T. Forkenbrock was born June 21, 1912, the twin daughter of George P. and Mary T. (Schwendinger) Winter. She attended St. Joseph’s School in New Hampton and then the New Hampton High School graduating in 1930. After graduation she enrolled in Calhoun Secretarial School in Minneapolis graduating in 1931. After graduation she worked for several companies in Minneapolis and St. Paul. In 1933, Lucille began work in Des Moines at the State House and later the Accounting department in the Oransky Building. In 1940, the office that Lucille worked in was transferred to Chicago where she worked for two years.

On August 9, 1943 she married Joseph (Bernard) Forkenbrock. After their marriage, Lucille worked for R. J. Sullivan, Evelyn Wilkins and Clem Smith and then for Vince Steffen retiring in 1962.

Memberships include St. Mary’s Church and Rosary Society and the Catholic Daughters of America since 1947.

Lucille enjoyed playing 500 and Bridge as well as being a strong supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes basketball and football teams. She also enjoyed writing poetry and working crossword puzzles.

Survivors include two sons: John of Sterling, VA, and Jim of New Hampton; four grandchildren; one brother: Leo of New Hampton; and one sister: Margaret Blazek also of New Hampton.

Lucille was preceded in death by her husband Joseph Bernard on January 26, 1955; her parents; two sisters: Mayme McGowan; and her twin Rocille in infancy; and two brothers: Andrew and George

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Olga Hopkins

Memorial services will be held 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 22 at Conway Funeral Home in Elma. Inurnment will be in Howard Cemetery also in Elma. Visitation will be an hour before service time at the funeral home.

Olga, 97, died Saturday, January 8, 2000 at Colonial Manor Home in Elma of natural causes

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Lena Shoemaker

Funeral services for Lena Shoemaker were held on Tuesday, January 11 at the Dorr Funeral Chapel in Falls City, NE. Dr. Donna Ihns officiated. Interment was in the cemetery at Barada, NE. Pall bearers were: Elmer Duerfeldt, Dale Duerfeldt, Robert Davis, Danny Inglis, Dean Palmer, and Jerry Howard. Honorary pall bearers were: James Wesseling, Andrew Wesseling, Calvin Wesseling, Thomas Miller, Kevin Roseboom, Nicholas Wesseling, C. J. Wesseling, Daniel Miller and Jack Roseboom. A memorial service will be held later at the Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Lena, 94, died Saturday, January 8, 2000 at the Howard County Hospital in Cresco after a short illness.

Lena Irene Shoemaker was born September 5, 1905 on the family farm near Solomon in Fremont County, the daughter of Jess and Olga Caroline (Lundberg) Shoemaker. Lena was Valedictorian of the Bartlett High School Class of 1925.

On January 19, 1927 she married Elmer Rickabaugh at the LDS parsonage near Bartlett. They began their life together in Bartlett where Lena was baptized on February 15, 1931 by the Rev. G. W. Kitchen. They made their home in Barada where Lena loved to garden. She maintained lifelong ties with the Bartlett Christian Church and served for many years as a Sunday School teacher and as president of the Ladies Aid Society. In June of 1999 she moved to Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Lena was a professinal seamstress and also a nanny.

Lena was preceded in death by her husband Elmer in 1990; her parents; and one brother.

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Marjorie Lillibridge

Funeral services for Marjorie Lillibridge of Tuscon, AZ formerly of New Hampton were held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 15 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Hampton. The Rev. Carl Schmitt officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in New Hampton. Pall bearers were: Wally Murphy, Steve Geerts, Bill Weigel, Norb Steffen and Ray Klenske. Larkin-Martin-Hugeback Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Marjorie, 74, died Monday, January 9, 2000 at St. Mary’s Hospital and Medical Center in Tuscon, AZ.

Marjorie J. Lillibridge was born in New Hampton the daughter of Leverett and Rose (Siegel) Lillibridge. She attended school at St. Joseph’s Grade School and graduated from the New Hampton High School in 1943. Following graduation, Marjorie worked ten years with the FBI in Washington, D.C., New York, NY and New Orleans, LA. From 1953 to 1955 she was a civilian employee of the U.S. Army in Japan and Korea and then worked for the Association for International Development in Paraguay and Liberia. From 1957 to 1962, Marjorie was secretary to the author, Frances Parkinson Keyes. Marjorie moved to Tuscon in 1963 and worked for Glacier National Park and the Tuscon School System retiring in 1991.

She was a member of Mother Cabrini Catholic Church in Tuscon.

Survivors include one brother: William of Iowa City; two sisters: June Karnatz of Bentonville, AK, and Doris Heifter of Grand Junction, CO.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents.

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Clara Hook

Funeral services for Clara Hook were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 13 at Immanuel Lutheran Church. The Rev. Bruce Hobert officiated. Interment was in Oak Lawn Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Roger Doubek, Raymond Vobr, Robert Vobr, Elvin Vobr, Eugene Albers, Johnie Vobr. Honorary pall bearers were: Marvel Grabau, Naomi Clark, Hedwig and Milton Kach, Helen Henkes, Ruby Ott, Mary and Art Nielsen and Florence and Clifford Tapp. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Clara, 97, died Monday, January 10, 2000 at the Evans Memorial Home following a short illness.

Clara Marie Hook was born March 4, 1902 in Howard County, the daughter of Chris and Anna (Mackenburg) Ewert. She went to country schools until she was nine years old and then moved to Cresco. She graduated from Cresco High School in 1921.

On June 21, 1922 she married Glen Hook. They farmed by Davis Corners for five years and then moved east of Cresco. Clara did the bookkeeping for her husband’s milk route for 14 years.

Clara played the piano for Sunday School and was a Sunday School teacher and held all the offices of the ladies aide. She belonged to the Birthday Club and the Garden Club in which she held many offices. She and Glen retired and moved to Cresco from their farm.

Clara enjoyed working with her flowers. She went to the Evans Memorial Home in 1994 when she broke her hip, and spent her remaining years there.

Survivors include one daughter: Irene Vobr of Cresco.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband Glen on October 1, 1991; her parents; an infant brother, John; and one sister: Mabel Zeller.

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Villo Offen Jr.

Funeral services for Villo Offen Jr. of McIntire were held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 14 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Meyer. The Rev. Joseph M. Schneider officiated. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery in Riceville. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Villo, 53, died Tuesday, January 11, 2000 at his home.

Villo E. Offen was born December 18, 1946 in Riceville, the son of Villo and Elizabeth (Weber) Offen. He attended local schools and graduated from the Riceville High School and went on to receive a degree in diesel mechanics. He served in the army and was stationed in Vietnam.

On January 25, 1969 he married Sandy K. Heimerman at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Meyer. They started farming in 1974. Villo was a member of the Hale Penney American Legion Post 569 of Stacyville, and the Osage V.F.W. Post 7920 of Osage.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy of McIntire; four daughters: Lynnette Offen of Minneapolis, MN, Michelle Richardson of Riceville, Deanne Tyler of Rockford, and Janelle Offen of McIntire; one son: Daniel of McIntire; two grandchildren; three sisters: Bonnie LeFevre of Guttenberg, Dorothy Schwab of Cedar Falls and Nancy Meyer of Postville.

Villo was preceded in death by his parents.

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Ervin Shores

Funeral services for Ervin Shores of Little Turkey were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 13 at Hugeback’s Protivin Funeral Home. The Rev. Allen Schmitt of Holy Trinity Catholic Church officiated. Interment was in Jerico Lutheran Church Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Gerald Tieskotter, John Polashek, Dale Throndson, Wayne Throndson, Donny Fisher and Norb Busta.

Ervin, 76, died Tuesday, January 11, 2000 at his home of natural causes.

Ervin Shores was born July 18, 1923 near Little Turkey, the son of Edd and Josephine (Kupka) Shores. He attended school at Utica #6 Country School.

In June 1952 he married Swede Ronnei at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Initially the couple lived in Protivin for a year, then moved to the farm where he was raised. He farmed beginning in 1953 and contued through 1970 at which time he went to work at the Chickasaw County Secondary Roads. He retired from the county in 1987 at the age of 64 after 18 years of service.

Ervin enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Survivors include his wife Swede.

Ervin was preceded in death by his parents.

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Mary Courtney

Funeral services for Mary L. Courtney of Ossian, formerly of Waukon, were held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 18 at St. Francis deSales Catholic Church in Ossian. Msgr. Cletus Hawes officiated. Interment was in St. Bridget’s Cemetery at Bluffton. Pall bearers were: Leo McKenna, Joe Magner, Walter Kurth, Jeff Magner, Dennis Donovan and Dave Daley. Honorary pall bearers were: Colleen Brown, Jeanne Anderson, Dr. Carla Rogers and Mary Ann Witt. Schmitz Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Mary, 76, died Friday, January 14, 2000 at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian after a short illness.

Mary Loretta Courtney was born January 26, 1923 in rural Howard County, the daughter of John J. and Loretta L. (Harris) Daley. She was baptized and confirmed in her faith at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Schley. Mary received her education by attending country school and graduated from Assumption Catholic High School in Cresco in 1941. She furthered her education by attending Mt. St. Claire College in Clinton and Luther College in Decorah. She received her teaching degree from Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls. Mary taught school in the Howard County country schools for 15 years.

On February 16, 1960 she married Paul Courtney at Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. They moved to a farm in the Forest Mills area and later purchased a farm near Rossville in Allamakee County. She belonged to St. Pius Catholic Church at Cherry Mound for 30 years. After the death of her husband, Mary moved to Ossian.

She was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and Rosary Society, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, No. 983, and the Ossian Senior Citizens Club where she was serving as vice president. She enjoyed reading.

For seven years, Mary served as a volunteer at the Ossian Senior Hospice, and in 1997 received the Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame Award for Winneshiek County for outstanding leadership in volunteering in the State of Iowa.

Survivors include one son: Greg of Columbia, MO; one daughter: Eileen Courtney of Ossian; three grandchildren; two brothers: John and William Daley both of Cresco.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband Paul in 1993; one brother: James; and two sisters: Sr. Angela and Ruth Daley.


Adella Andera

 Funeral services for Adella Andera of Protivin were held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 18 at the Holy Trinity Worship Center in Protivin. The Rev. Allen M. Schmitt officiated. Interment was in Holy Trinity Cemetery in Protivin. Pall bearers were: Merlin Andera, Norbert Ira, Norman Ira, Edward Mikota, Larry Mikota and Dean Hubka. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Adella, 87, died Saturday, January 15, 2000 at Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco.

Adella A. Andera was born June 25, 1912 at Protivin the daughter of John F. and Stella (Hubka) Andera. She was baptized and confirmed in her faith at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church to which she was a member her entire life. She graduated from Rudolphinium High School in Protivin in 1929. She was a telephone operator and for twenty years before her retirement, she was a postal clerk at the Protivin Post Office.

Adella was a member of the Senior Citizens Club at Protivin, the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, and the Holy Trinity Rosary Society.

Adella was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Alois.

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Robert Kovarik

Funeral services for Robert Kovarik were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 20 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville. The Rev. Donald Hawes officiated. Interment was in St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in Spillville. Pall bearers were: Jan Ewart, Wayne Kovarik, Roman Kovarik, Sara Clausman, Jeff Landa, Maria Kovarik, Mike Clausman and Katie Clausman. Balik Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Robert, 81, died Monday, January 17, 2000.

Robert Joseph Kovarik was born February 23, 1918 on a farm near Protivin, the son of Adolph and Albina (Koudelka) Kovarik. He attended country school and graduated from Rudolphinum High School in Protivin in 1937.

On November 25, 1940 he married Helen Taylor at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville. They farmed for many years near Protivin and Spillville. In 1980 they moved to town into the senior citizens apartments where Robert was the resident maintenance man, and continued helping on the farm. He enjoyed playing cards.

Survivors include his wife, Helen of Spillville; two daughters: Cathy Bailey of Kempton, PA, and Rosemary Clausman of Waterloo; one son: Ron of Calmar; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one brother: Paul of Protivin.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents.

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Pauline Vsetecka

Funeral services for Pauline Vsetecka were held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 19 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin. The Rev. Allan Schmitt officiated. Interment was in Holy Trinity Cemetery in Protivin. Pall bearers were: Vincent Frana, Ron Shindelar, Gary Shindelar, Robert Wagner, Edgar Shindelar, Larry Shindelar, Thomas Wagner, John O. Shindelar, Edward Shindelar and Charles L. Schindelar. Balik Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Pauline, 87, died Monday, January 17, 2000 at the Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo after a short illness.

Pauline Rosie Vsetecka was born June 16, 1912 on the family farm near Spillville, the daughter of John J. and Anna (Kruchek) Shindelar. She attended grade school in Spillville.

On October 9, 1933 she married Clarence Vsetecka at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville. They farmed near Protivin many years and after Clarence’s death, she moved to Protivin.

She was involved with church activities, liked to garden, play cards, and was a great cook. She shared her musical talents at area nursing homes and was a life long member of the Catholic Workman.

Survivors include two brothers: John of Spillville and Alois of rural Fort Atkinson.

Pauline was preceded in death by her husband Clarence on July 3, 1989; her parents; two sisters: Anna Wagner and Agnes Frana and one brother: V. J. Shindelar.

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Adeline Sobolik

Funeral services for Adeline Sobolik were held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, January 21 at St. Joseph’s Worship Center. The Rev. Michael L. Tauke officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery. Pall bearers were her grandsons: Bob, Jerry and John Sobolik, Steve Lensing, Chris Handrich and Todd Hiemstra. Honorary pall bearers were: Larry, Barb and Joe Sobolik, Terri and Beth Handrich, Mike Hiemstra, Julie Stern, Mary Cross and Lisa Dana. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Adeline, 84, died Tuesday, January 18, 2000 at the Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco.

Adeline Anna Sobolik was born December 23, 1915 in Paris Township, Howard County, the daughter of Joseph and Anna (Stika) Kacer. She attended the rural school.

On October 11, 1937 she married William L. Sobolik at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin. They made their home on the farm. Adeline moved into Cresco after William’s death.

She was a member of the Holy Trinity Church and later belonged to St. Joseph’s Church, where she was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society. She liked to bake, do needlework, and make quilts.

Survivors include two sons: Donald of Protivin, and Melvin of Cresco; three daughters: Wilma Lensing of New Hampton, Jane White of Des Moines and Elain Tiedt of Lakeville, MN; 15 grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; two sisters: Mildred Moudry of Cresco and Loretta Shileny of Protivin.

Adeline was preceded in death by her husband William on June 10, 1997; her parents; and one daughter: Shirley in infancy.

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Evelyn Tass

Memorial services for Evelyn Tass of Mason City were held at 12:30 p.m. Friday, January 21 at Hogan Bremer Colonial Chapel. The Rev. Carl A. Ries of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church officiated.

According to her wishes, Evelyn’s body was donated to the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines.

Evelyn, 79, died Tuesday, January 18, 2000 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

Evelyn R. Tass was born May 3, 1920 in Cresco, the daughter of Ray and Alice (Redfern) Ritter. She graduated from North Iowa Teachers College in Cedar Falls and taught Kindergarten through 12th grade for ten years. Most of those years at a rural school near Cresco.

On June 24, 1948 she married Clarence Tass in Charles City. They moved to Mason City. After the children were grown, she worked as a substitute teacher and librarian for the Mason City School District.

She loved to cook, can foods, work in her garden, read poetry, and write in her journals.

Survivors include her husband Clarence of Mason City; three sons: David and Steven both of Mason City and Charles of Colorado Springs, CO; one daughter: Mary Jo Wells of Phoenix, AZ; five grandchildren; and one sister: Bernice Griest of California.

Evelyn was preceded in death by one grandson; her parents; and one brother: Eldred.

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Frank White

Funeral services for Frank F. White were held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, January 24 at the Zion United Methodist Church in rural Cresco. The Rev. Robert Holdorf officiated. Interment was in Cedar Hill Cemetery. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Frank, 88, died Thursday, January 20, 2000 at the Cresco Care Center.

Frank F. White was born September 21, 1911 at Festina, the son of Charles and Frances (Bruening) White. He attended grade school.

Frank married Alice Mohs and they farmed north of Cresco. Alice passed away in 1965 and he married Pearl Schutte Goetsch. They made their home in Lime Springs.

Survivors include two daughters: Dorothy Kupka and Vicki White both of Cresco; three sons: Dean of Harmony, MN, Jerry of Lime Springs and Gary of Lockwood, MT; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two sisters: Clara Busz and Esther Bakotich; and three brothers: Ernest, Paul and Vincent all who live in the state of Washington.

Frank was preceded in death by his wives, Alice and Pearl; and his parents.


Norma Cutsforth 

Funeral services for Norma Cutsforth of Waterloo were held Tuesday, January 25 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Waterloo.

Norma, 62, died Friday, January 21, 2000 at Allen Hospital in Waterloo of complications from surgery.

Norma Jean Cutsforth was born October 12, 1937 in Cresco, the daughter of Leonard and Viola (Barthelme) Ferrie.

On February 6, 1956 she married Virgil Cutsforth in Cresco.

Norma was a cook for Blessed Sacrament Church and schools in Waterloo for many years.

Survivors include her husband Virgil; three sons: Thomas, Timothy, and John all of Waterloo; four daughters: Paula Hippe and Jenny Cutsforth both of Waterloo, Pam Iverson of Readlyn and Kathy Spence of Elk Run Heights; ten grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; three brothers: Jack, Bill and Don all of Cresco; and six sisters: Helen Graves of Riceville, Marian Bergren of Spring Valley, MN, Marg Sobolik of Cresco, Mary Jo Chappell and Ann Emerson both of Marion, and Kathy Balluff of Denver, CO.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents.

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Jerry Felder

Funeral services for Jerry Felder of Alta Vista were held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 25 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Alta Vista. The Rev. Roger R. Rethamel, Rev. Vince Rosonke and Rev. Steve Rosonke officiated. Inurnment was in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Alta Vista. Pall placers were his granddaughters: Erika, Toni Jo and Annie Felder. Pall bearers were: Robert Hilsman, Kelly Mishak, Jeff Elenz, Jim Peters, Don Recker and Vince Nuebel. Honorary pall bearers were: Paul Troyna, Brad Schwickerath, Travis Brummond, Russ Hilsman and Scott Felder. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Jerry, 70, died Friday, January 21, 2000 of kidney failure at North Iowa Mercy Health Center in Mason City.

Jerry A. Felder was born May 12, 1929 at Alta Vista, the son of August and Anna (Delsing) Felder. He atttended St. Williams School.

On September 21, 1950 he married Delores Mishak at St. Bernard’s Church. They resided in Alta Vista.

Jerry was a member of St. Bernard’s Church and of the Men’s Choir. He had served as chief for the Alta Vista Fire Department and had been a City Councilman. He was an avid sportsman.

Jerry owned and operated Felder Livestock and Trucking and in 1984 with his son Mike founded Southside Truck Parts. He retired in 1995.

Survivors include his wife, Delores; one son: Mike of Alta Vista; one daughter: Linda Larson of Ft. Worth, TX; three grandchildren; three sisters: Madonna Recker of Alta Vista, Henlen Ray of Mesa, AZ, and Rita Ann Nuebel of Dunkerton; and three brothers: Gene of Prairie du Chien, WI, Ray of New Hampton, and Bernard of Alta Vista.

Jerry was preceded in death by two sisters: Irma Heying and Irene Felder.

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Mildred Klomps

Funeral services for Mildred Klomps of Harmony were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 27 at the United Methodist Church in Harmony. The Rev. David Lacchel officiated. Interment was in Greenleafton Cemetery, rural Preston, MN. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Mildred, 92, died Sunday, January 23, 2000 at the Harmony Community Nursing Home.

Mildred Klomps was born December 4, 1907 at Cherry Grove, MN, the daughter of Henry and Jane Wesselink.

On July 3, 1928 she married Ernest Hebrink. They farmed in the area until they purchased the Bristol Center Store. Upon retirement they moved to Harmony. Ernst died on September 9, 1977. She married Harold Klomps on September 26, 1980 and he passed away on December 20, 1985.

Survivors include three sons: Arlin Hebrink of Granger, Jerry Hebrink of Cresco, and Loyal Hebrink of Lime Springs; two step-daughers: Dorothy Knutson of Dodge Center, MN, and Elsie Scott of Ely, MN; 13 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and one brother: Howard of Spring Valley, MN.

Mildred was preceded in death by her husbands: Ernest and Harold; and one sister: Pearl.


Edna Heimer

 Funeral services for Edna Heimer were held at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, January 27 at the Assumption Worship Center. The Rev. Michael L. Tauke officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Aaron Fritz, Scott Villinski, David Heimer, Jarrod Julius, Al Herold, and Todd Ollendieck. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Edna, 81, died Monday, January 24, 2000 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN.

Edna Rose Heimer was born September 15, 1918 in Adrian, MN the daughter of Joseph and Mary A. (Gerken) Fritz.

On October 3, 1970 she married Ben Heimer.

She was a dietary aide and cook at the Evans Memorial Home for 20 years. She was a member of the Assumption Church, the Altar and Rosary Society, the Union V.I.P. Club, and the Prime Timers. Edna’s hobbies were baking, knitting, and fishing.

Survivors include three step sons: Dick of Sheffield, Michael of Rochester, MN, and Charles of Kasson, MN; two step daughters: Sandi Villinski of Singapore, and LeAnne Julius of Iowa City; 13 step grandchildren; and nine step great-grandchildren.

Edna was preceded in death by her husband Ben on December 14, 1rs: Gilbert, Ewald, Leo, Vincent, and Sylvester; one half brother: John; and three sisters: Luella Fritz, Armella Herold, and Irma Ollendieck.

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Ida Klingsheim

Funeral services for Ida Klingsheim of Lime Springs were held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, January 30 at the United Methodist Church in Lime Springs. The Rev. Gerald Smith and Rev. Russell Brown officiated. Interment was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Lime Springs. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Ida, 84, died Monday, January 24, 2000.

On April 8, 1939 she married Berner Klingsheim at Decorah. They farmed on the family farm all their married life and Ida remained there after the death of Berner in 1978.

Survivors include one daughter: Beverly Geffert of Carver, MN; two grandchildren; three sisters: Aletha Carlson of Winona, MN, Helen Raaen of Preston, MN and Hildegarde Klingsheim of Wykoff, MN; and two brothers: Ingvald Hongerholt of Brooklyn Center, MN, and Joe Hongerholt of Williston, ND.

Ida was preceded in death by her husband, Berner; and a brother: Sidney.

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Dale Schroeder

Funeral services for Dale Schroeder of Elma were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 27 at the First United Methodist Church in Elma. The Rev. Catherine Luck officiated. Interment was in Howard Cemetery in Elma. Pall bearers were: Gary Ries, Russell Schroeder Jr., Joe Hart, John Worple, Roger Schroeder and Kevin Crooks. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Dale, 73, died Monday, January 24, 2000 at his home of cancer.

Dale McKinlay Schroeder was born January 30, 1926 in Afton township, rural Elma, the son of Homer and Myrtle (Diestler) Schroeder. He attended Elma High School.

On January 30, 1948 he married Jeanette DeVries at the Methodist Church in Elma. They farmed Northeast of Elma until 1963 when they owned and operated Schroeder Locker in Alta Vista. After his semi-retirement in 1986, he delivered trailers for S & S Trailers. Dale was kept busy hobby farming, and he also enjoyed fishing, hunting, card and board games.

He was a member of the Methodist Church, was a volunteer fireman for the Alta Vista Fire Department, was a member of the Alta Vista Commercial Club, and of the Iowa Locker Association.

Survivors include his wife, Jeanette; one son: Patrick of Pine Island, MN; one daughter: Vicki Halverson of Cresco; six grandchildren; five brothers: Russell of Charles City, Robert of Osage, Kenneth of Albert Lea, MN, Dean of Chester and Ron of Long Beach, CA; and two sisters: Evelyn Hart of Elma and Wanda Stueber of Ridgeway, SC.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister: Lois Schroeder in infancy.

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Bertha Harms

Funeral services for Bertha Harms of Riceville were held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 28 at the Conway Funeral Home in Riceville. The Rev. Edythe Hill officiated. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Lowell Gillman, Larry Freerksen, Gary Watts, Bill Rankin, David Eastman, Geoffrey Gronwoldt, Shielo Gronwoldt, Dan Murphy, Karla Murphy, Dan Warnke, and Tamyra Gronwoldt. Honorary pall bearers were: Don Dahly, Russell Willis, Marvin Merritt, Maynard Satern, Vince Hemann, Vern Tetzner, Jim Merritt, and Bob Graves.

Bertha, 82, died Tuesday, January 25, 2000 at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Bertha Jennie Harms was born January 24, 1918 at Johnson, MN, the daughter of Charles and Kate (Geerdes) Wessels. She was baptized June 5, 1920 by Rev. James Friedly at Gracevile, MN in the German Lutheran Church. She was cared for by her dad after losing her mom at the age of two. Around the age of five, they moved to Ackley, and then to Buffalo Center. After losing her dad at age nine, she was cared for at their home by two brothers and a sister. A year or so later, she moved in with an aunt and uncle, until making her home with a cousin’s family.

On October 8, 1935 she married John Harms at the Wesley Parsonage. They lived on rented farms in the Titonka and Buffalo Center area. In March, 1949 they moved to the farm they purchased north of Riceville. Bertha resided at their home until January 24 when she suffered a stroke.

Survivors include one son: Kenneth of Osage; one daughter: Ardith Gronwoldt of LeRoy, MN; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one sister: Mae Schwartz of Swea City.

Bertha was preceded in death by her husband John on June 30, 1992; one daughter: Rhadora Fesenmeyer; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; her parents; three brothers: John, Ralph, and Carl Wessels; and three sisters: Elsie Blood, Katherine Gillman, and Katherine’s infant twin sister.

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Mabel Hermans

Funeral services for Mabel Hermans were held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 26 at the Conway Funeral Home in Cresco. The Rev. Lewis Flanigan officiated. Interment was in Eddy Cemetery in Kendallville.

Mabel, 60, died Tuesday, January 25, 2000 at her home, after struggling with cancer.

Mabel Emeline Hermans was born April 25, 1939 at Kendallville, the daughter of Willard F. and Gladys M. (Headington) Trouten. She attended the Fremont #2 school and graduated from Cresco High School. After graduation, she attended LaJames Beauty School in Mason City and then moved to Minneapolis and worked as a cashier for the Marriott at Egan, MN, and at nights was a dietary aide at the Wilder Nursing Home in St. Paul, MN.

In 1962, she married Bill Hermans in Las Vegas, NV. They were later divorced.

After Mabel got sick, she moved back to Cresco to be near her family.

Survivors include Bill Hermans; two daughters: Sheila Hermans of Inver Grove Heights, MN and Julie Jarvis of Faribault, MN; two grandchildren; three brothers: Duane of Arlington Heights, IL, Arnold of Kendallville, and Jack of Cedar Falls; and four sisters: Jean Ollendieck of Hills, Lois Ollendieck of Cresco, Martha Hruska and Mary Hovey of Kendallville.

Mabel was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: John and George.

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Orville Qualle

Memorial services for Orville Qualle, 80, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 3 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco.

Orville died Sunday, January 30, 2000 at the Aase Haugen Home in Decorah.

Survivors include two daughters: Kris Moen of Cresco and Paula Lapic of Rochester, MN.

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Orlando Moen

Funeral services for Orlando Moen of Granger, MN, formerly of Decorah were held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 4 at Glenwood Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. Susan Debner officiated. Interment was in Glenwood Cemetery rural Decorah. Pall bearers were: Lori Halvorson, Barbara Thorstenson, Robert Moen, Bradley Thorstenson, Ron Gavle and Mike Casterton. Honorary pall bearers were: Leland Naley, Kenneth Groth, Richard Lacey, Roger Hovey, Donny Vick, Gordon Swenson, Robert Snell and Ron Jabe. French & Balik Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Orlando, 51, died Monday, January 31, 2000 in Granger, MN at a friend’s home, following a sudden heart attack.

Orlando “Slim” Clarence Moen was born July 16, 1948 in Waukon, the son of Clarence and Arlene (Rude) Moen. Slim lived at Skaims Hollow in Glenwood Township as a child and was baptized and confirmed at Glenwood Lutheran Church. He moved with his family to Decorah and attended rural schools and Decorah High School.

On August 20, 1966 he married Donna Jean Gelo at the Glenwood Lutheran Church. Slim worked for Carolan & Wicks Construction, Wapsie Produce, Ron Gavle Trucking before he started his own business “Moen Trucking”. In 1980, he and his family moved to the Glenwood area and then in 1989 he moved to the Granger area. He enjoyed his horses and in later years, d

Survivors include his mother; two daughters: Lori Ann Halvorson of Waukon, Barbara Jean Thorstenson of Decorah; one son: Robert James of Burr Oak; three grandchildren; and one sister: Gail Snell of Burr Oak.

Orlando was preceded in death by one infant son: Orlando Clarence Moen on February 24, 1967; and his father: Clarence on February 12, 1998.

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Adelyne Wright

Funeral services for Adelyne Wright were held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 2 at First Lutheran Church in Cresco. The Rev. Gary K. Lee and Intern Jennifer English officiated. Interment was in Sunset Rest Cemetery at Northwood. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Adelyne Marie Wright was born June 11, 1912 in Fargo, ND. She was placed in an orphanage when she was 16 days old and adopted by Otto and Ella Miller of Milnor, ND. Adelyne attended the Milnor School and graduated in 1929. She attended Concordia College in Moorhead, MN and graduated from there with a BA in 1933. She taught in country schools around Milnor and Rutland, ND for two years and then in high school in Ruthland.

On July 24, 1936 she married Sophus W. Lee. The family lived in Oaks, ND, Northwood, and on a farm near Buffalo, MN.

From 1964 until 1973 Adelyne taught English in Lake Mills. Her husband, Sophus, died in March 1967. On December 18, 1972 she married Hugh Wright and they moved to Stow, OH where she lived for 22 years.

Adelyne moved to Cresco in November 1994 where she lived near her sons until her death on January 30, 2000.

Adelyne was active in church activities, including teaching Sunday School, the Altar Guild, Circle, Ladies Aid, and singing in the choir. She was also a part of women’s clubs wherever whe lived, including Clio and PEO in Cresco.

Her interests were reading, doing crossword puzzles, sewing, playing bridge, and entertaining people in her home.

Survivors include two sons: Bruce Lee of Decorah, and Gary Lee of Cresco; two step sons: David Wright of Stow, OH and Jim Wright of Boulder, CO; six grandchildren; five step grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and two step great-grandchildren.

Adelyne was preceded in death by her husband Sophus; her husband Hugh; her youngest son: John; and her parents.



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