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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Mabel Henry

 Funeral services for Mabel Henry will be held at 1:30 p.m. today, Wednesday, June 5 at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco with Rev. Tim Sir officiating.

Interment will be in the Lutheran Cemetery at Albert Lea, MN at a later date.

Mabel, 99, died Saturday, June 1, 2002 at the Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Mabel Henry was born June 25, 1902 in Kossuth County, the daughter of William and Rose (Eaton) Berry. She lived most of her young life in Minnesota. She graduated from Fairmont High School in 1923 and entered Nurses Training in Asbury Methodist in Minneapolis graduating in 1926.

She married Orr Henry and they moved to Cresco in 1941.

She was active in the nurses organization during WW II and was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary for many years. She was a member of the First United Congregational Church of Christ.

Mabel was preceded in death by her husband Orr in 1985; three brothers: Russell, Earl, and Thomas; and one sister: Hazel Cunningham.


Janet C. Wilkins 

Funeral services for Janet C. Wilkins of Decorah will held at 11:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, June 5, at the Canoe Ridge Lutheran Church in rural Decorah with Rev. Susan Debner officiating.

Interment will be in Council Hill Cemetery in Monona. Schluter Balik Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Janet, 69, died Saturday, June 1, 2002 at her home following a long illness.

She is survived by her husband W. Eldean of Decorah; two sons: Dennis and Donald, both of Decorah; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one sister: Laverna Tayke of Comanche; and one brother: James Dempster of Guttenberg.


Verna Carlson

Verna Carlson died on Saturday, June 1, 2002 in her Vista, CA home.

Graveside services were held at Palos Verds, CA.

Verna Carlson was born May 13, 1919 in Cresco, the daughter of Albert and Bessie (Bufton) Wildman.

She is survived by one daughter: Kenlon Van Kempen of Vista, CA; two grandchildren; one sister: Dora Layton of IndiaLantic Beach, FL; and two brothers: Robert of Cedar Falls and John of Elkader.

Verna was preceded in death by her husband Wilbur Carlson; her parents; and one brother: Howard.


Gertrude Martin

Funeral services for Gertrude Martin of Cedar Rapids, formerly of Lawler, were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 6 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler with Rev. Marvin Salz and Rev. Peter Bodensteiner officiating.

Interment was in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church Cemetery. Gertrude's five children placed the pall. Pallbearers were: Tom Kelly, Steve Kelly, Mike Herold, Pat Herold, Tim Herold, David Martin, and Jeff Martin. Hugeback Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Gertrude, 93, died Sunday, June 2, 2002 at Hallmar, Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids.

Gertrude E. Martin was born March 21, 1909 in Lawler, the daughter of Louis and Mary Etta (Hand) Fisher. She attended rural country school and was a Lawler High School graduate.

On April 6, 1930 she married Paul Vincent Martin at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church. They owned and operated the family business, known as the Martin Cafe in Lawler until 1970.

She was a member of Catholic Daughters of the Americas, the American Legion Aux., the Commercial Club, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church and Rosary Society.

She enjoyed reading, baking and cooking.

She is survived by three sons: Jim of Cedar Rapids, William of New Brighton, MN, and Donald of Land O' Lakes, FL; two daughters: Marietta Kelly of Cedar Rapids and Paula Herold of White Bear Lake, MN; 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one brother: Bill of Temperance, MI; and one sister: Peg Hager of LaPorte City.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband Paul on July 15, 1994; one daughter: Joan Martin in 1951; her parents; three brothers: Paul, Chris, and George; and two sisters: Leone Moody and Edith Conway.


Melvin Roberg

Funeral services for Melvin Roberg were held on Thursday, June 6 at the Nordland Lutheran Church, rural Paynesville, MN with Rev. Keith Ainsley officiating.

Interment was in the Nordland Lutheran Cemetery, rural Paynesville, MN. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Melvin, 86, died Sunday, June 2, 2002 at his home in Cresco.

Melvin Oscar Roberg was born December 13, 1915 at home near Paynesville, MN, the son of Olaf and Maime (Johnson) Roberg. He attended the rural school near his home through the eighth grade. Following his schooling, he helped on the farm for a while, but he loved to travel and went to California and various places. He entered the U.S. Army in 1942 serving in Africa and France. He was discharged in 1945 and returned to the midwest.

On December 30, 1947 he married Louise Thompson in Milwaukee, WI. They lived in West Allis, WI where he and a brother operated a garage. In 1951 they moved to a farm in Howard County. They moved into Cresco in 1982. Melvin enjoyed work and traveling. He and Louise would travel to Europe and every winter they would go to California. A couple of years ago he fulfilled a life long dream of returning to France where he had served during the war.

He was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco and a life long member of the Nordland Lutheran Church in Paynesville, MN. He was a member of the American Legion Post in Cresco.

He is survived by his children: Susan K. Thomas of Redfield, SD, Brian of Cresco, and Marlys Alstad of Cresco; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; four brothers: Norman of Anamosa, Oliver of California, LaVerne of Maquoketa, and Russell of Salina, KS; and one sister: Ethel Barker of Anamosa.

Melvin was preceded in death by his wife Louise on March 14, 1995; his parents; two brothers: Clarence and Earl; and an infant sister.


Eunice Pentico 

Funeral services for Eunice Pentico of Protivin will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, June 12 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin with Rev. John Moser officiating.

Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Hugeback Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Eunice, 88, died Sunday, June 9, 2002 at the Oneota Riverview Care Facility in Decorah after a brief illness.

Eunice F. Pentico was born on May 23, 1914 in Plymouth, the daughter of Martin and Anna (Kvasnicka) Hoeldt. She attended Assumption Grade School in Cresco and was a Cresco High School graduate in 1932.

On November 12, 1936 she married Bob Roberts. To this union, two children were born. The couple lived in Cresco, LeRoy, MN, and Clermont. They later divorced. in 1975 she married Glenn Pentico. The couple lived in Des Moines where Eunice retired from the Downe Computer Service Co. in 1976. After retiring, they moved to an acreage near Saratoga. In 1994 she moved to Protivin where she was an active member of the Protivin Senior Citizens and Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

She is survived by one son: Wayne Roberts of Decorah; one daughter: Sharon Lukes of Waterloo; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one sister: Bernice Joerger of Cresco.

Eunice was preceded in death by her husbands; her parents; two sisters: Louise Ernst and Harriet Thompson; and one brother: James.


James Boyle

Funeral services for James Boyle of Alta Vista were held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 15 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Rev. John Hemann officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Elma. Pall bearers were: Tom Buckley, Tom Boyle, Joe Meirick, Peter Heying, Pat Boyle Jr., Ross Hillsman, Frank Mueterthies, Matt Boyle, Kraig Boyle, and Bill Boyle. Honorary pall bearers were: Duane Gerhardt, Virgil Cox, Virgil Marvin, and Steve Recker. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

James, 56, died Tuesday, June 11, 2002 at Innovis Hospital in Fargo, ND of an apparent heart attack.

James Edward Boyle was born August 26, 1945 at Elma, the son of Charles Patrick and Clara (Knippling) Boyle. He graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy in Elma. After his schooling he tiled for Ron Hoffman and Virgil Dykes, worked road construction for Clem Smith Construction in New Hampton, and also worked for Linus Lentz.

On November 15, 1969 he married Leigh Schleusner at St. Ignatius Church in Spring Valley, MN. They lived in Elma until 1976 when they moved to Alta Vista. He worked as a farm hand for Dale Meirick for seven years, then at the Elevator in Alta Vista. He later began his trucking career hauling grain for Clarence Kobliska, and later Cliff Norman. In 1985 he became an owner-operator and contracted with Warren Transport. He was currently trucking for Warren Transport.

He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council #4144 in Elma.

He is survived by his wife Leigh of Alta Vista; one daugher: Rachel of Houston, TX; two sisters: Norma Buckley of Elma and Judy Hillsman of Waterloo; and two brothers: John of Elma and Charles of Elma.

James was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters: Eleanor Hall, Bernice Heying, Madonna Mueterthies, and Marjorie Meirick; and one brother: Patrick.


Beverly Frana

Funeral services for Beverly Frana of Decorah were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 15 at Decorah Lutheran Church with Rev. Ole Winter and Rev. Bryan Robertson officiating.

Interment was in Oakland Cemetery in Waukon. Pallbearers were: Roger Britain Jr., Tim Britain, Dennis Cain, Doug Frana, Kevin Frana, Gary Knickerbocker, Bob Schultz, and Greg Schultz. Fjelstul Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Beverly, 60, died Tuesday, June 11, 2002 at Oneota Riverview Care Facility where she had been a resident since April 9.

Beverly Ann Frana was born May 17, 1942 in Arlington, the daughter of Earl L. and Alba M. (Spores) Britain. She graduated from Waukon High School in 1960.

On October 26, 1963 she married Wesley S. Frana. They made their home west of Decorah.

Beverly worked at Luther College and Keystone A.E.A. for many years. She went to school for dog grooming in Minnesota and opened her own business out of her home in Frankville.

She enjoyed horses, collecting stuffed bunnies, fishing, camping, and dancing.

She is survived by one daughter: Kim M. Hovey of Cresco; two sons: Leslie E. and Lonnie J. of Decorah; her mother: Alba M. Kudart of Waukon; two sisters: Donna Mae Cain of Waterloo and Darleen Schultz of Mesa, AZ; two brothers: LeRoy of Ramsey, MN and Roger of Bismark, ND; and seven grandchildren.

Beverly was preceded in death by her father Earl; and one sister: Scherriel Jean Britain.


Vernon Dale Lindaman

Vernon Dale “Tonto” Lindaman, age 76, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born the son of Arnold and Minnie Abbas Lindaman on August 15, 1925, in Butler County, near Parkersburg, Iowa. He was baptized July 21, 1929, by Rev. Siefkes. Vernon attended a country school near his home in Butler County. Vernon was united in marriage with Ruth Ibling on October 29, 1949, at the Bethel Lutheran Church in Parkersburg, Iowa. He worked for Clay Equipment and then was self-employed as a painter. The couple moved to Aplington where he owned and operated R&V Café and Bar and Vernon also worked for Norgas where he delivered gas. Ruth died in 1974 and Vernon moved back to Parkersburg. He retired from Norgas in 1975. Vernon enjoyed fishing and the worst day was when he had to sell his boat. He also enjoyed spending time golfing. Vernon died at Maple Manor Village in Aplington, Iowa on Wednesday, June 12, 2002, at 5:50 a.m. of natural causes. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Ruth. Vernon is survived by two brothers, Virgil Lindaman of Parkersburg, Iowa and Duane and his wife, Marge Lindaman of Janesville, Iowa; several nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Pauline Adelmund of Parkersburg and her family. Graveside services were held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 14, 2002, at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg. Rev. Bill Carpenter of Cedar Valley Hospice officiated. Casket bearers were Steve Adelmund, Gary Adelmund, Gary Lindaman, Allan Lindaman and Glenn Whiteside, and Kendall Siems.


Albert Jans

Albert Jans, age 88, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was born the son of Whipple and Minnie (Ahlers) Jans on May 23, 1914, in Butler County, near Shell Rock, Iowa. Albert served in the United States Army from January 1, 1942, until June 14, 1945, in the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division. During this time he earned two Bronze Stars while serving in New Guinea and upon returning to the United States he completed his duty as a Staff Sergeant. On December 21, 1944, Albert was united in marriage with Gertie Hulsing in Leesville, Louisiana where he was stationed. They made their home in Leesville, Louisiana until 1945, then they moved and farmed near Parkersburg, Iowa for 30 years. In 1976 they retired from farming and moved to town. Albert attended the First Congregational Church in Parkersburg and was a member of the Parkersburg American Legion. He enjoyed spending many hours gardening and going for walks. Albert died of cancer at 8:37 a.m. Thursday, June 13, 2002, at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo, Iowa. Albert was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Mattie Jungling; and three brothers, John, Dirk and Whipple Jans, Jr. Albert is survived by his wife, Gertie Jans of Parkersburg, Iowa; one son, Kenneth John Jans and his fiancé, Linda Cameron of North Liberty, Iowa; one daughter, Bonnie Jean Holm and her husband, Vern of Parkersburg; three grandchildren, Jennifer Jans Barley and her husband, Robert of Kansas City, Missouri, Melissa (Jans) Cotton and her husband, Steven of Bettendorf, Iowa and Nick Holm and his fiancé, Andrea Brungard of Parkersburg, Iowa; one great granddaughter, Maddison Aaliyah Barley of Kansas City, Missouri; and a special niece they raised, Marcia Kruger Renken and her husband, Bob of Steamboat Rock, Iowa. Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2002, at the First Congregational Church in Parkersburg, Iowa. Rev. Ron Bartlett officiated the service and a Special Reading was given by Jennifer Jans Barley. Jean Bass was the organist, Stan Thompson sang “Borning Cry” and “My Country Tis of Thee” and the Congregational Hymns were “What A Friend We Have In Jesus,” “On Eagles Wings” and “Amazing Grace.” The Casketbearers were Harlan DeGroote, Robert DeGroote, Dennis DeGroote, Duane DeGroote, Robert Studnicka and Darwin Hofer. Interment was at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg, Iowa, with Full Military Rites conducted by the Parkersburg American Legion Post #285 and taps were presented by Steven Cotton.


Delmer Dean Greenlee

Delmer Dean Greenlee, age 75, of Clarksville, Iowa, was born the son of Robert and Gladys (Richsmann) Greenlee on August 3, 1926, in Mitchell, Iowa. He received his education in Shell Rock, Iowa. Delmer served in the United States Army during World War II from December 6, 1944, until June 26, 1946. For a time he was stationed in the Philippians where he was a truck driver in the Infantry. On April 27, 1945, Delmer was united in marriage with Valora Ball in Waverly, Iowa. They made their home in Shell Rock, Iowa. Delmer worked at Shield Bantam in Waverly, a Crane Manufacturing Company until 1959, when he became employed at John Deere Company in Waterloo, Iowa. He worked at the tractor factory for 26 years, until his retirement. Valora passed away on January 12, 1972. Delmer married Alpha Ball Olmstead on March 9, 1973, at the United Methodist Church in Shell Rock, Iowa. They made their home on a farm west of Clarksville. Delmer enjoyed gardening, fishing, John Deere Tractors and in his earlier years he liked to go hunting. He was a member of the American Legion in Shell Rock. Delmer died at 8:15 p.m. Thursday, June 13, 2002, at the Community Nursing Home in Clarksville of cancer. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Valora Greenlee on January 12, 1972; one son, Ronald Greenlee on May 12, 1993; one grandson, Thomas Santee; one stepson, Len Olmstead; his parents; one sister, Phyllis Wadell; and one brother, Clarence Greenlee. Delmer is survived by his wife, Alpha Greenlee of Clarksville; two sons, Lynn (Mike) Greenlee and his wife, Sue of Jefferson, Iowa and Dale Greenlee of Des Moines, Iowa; two daughters, Linda VanHauen and her husband, Harold of Clarksville and Dorothy Oldenburger and her husband, Robert of Clarksville; one daughter-in-law, Sandra Greenlee of Greene, Iowa; 10 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; four step-sons, Gary Olmstead and his wife, Norma of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Larry Olmstead and his wife, Karen of Waverly, Iowa, Steven Olmstead and his wife, Cheryl of Mesa, Arizona and Franklin Olmstead and his wife, Jackie of Mesa, Arizona; two step-daughters, Mardell Skinner and her husband, Larry of Waverly, Iowa and Janese Lebeck and her husband, Don of Clarksville, Iowa; 20 step-grandchildren; 26 step great grandchildren; two brothers, Robert Greenlee and his wife, Sharane of Shell Rock, Iowa and Jerry Greenlee and his wife, Joan of Waverly, Iowa; two sisters, Evelyn Bartlett of Waverly and Nylene Luloff and her husband, Dick of Waverly, Iowa; one sister-in-law, Mardell Greenlee of Nashua, Iowa; and one step-daughter-in-law, Jeanette Olmstead Wiggs of Harisson, Arkansas. Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 17, 2002, at the Community United Methodist Church in Clarksville, Iowa. Pastor Allen Poore-Christensen officiated, the organist was Lola Clark, Julie Poore-Christensen sang “The Old Rugged Cross” & “Amazing Grace” and the Congregational Hymns were “On Eagles Wings” & “Jesus Loves Me.” The Honorary Casketbearer was Rian Greenlee and the Casketbearers were Dean Jepsen, Nathan Oldenburger, Robbie Greenlee, Chris Greenlee, Keith Hinders and Jeff Kromminga. Interment was at the Riverside Cemetery in Shell Rock, Iowa, with Full Military Rites conducted by the Shell Rock American Legion.


Clarence Walker

Funeral services for Clarence Walker of Riceville were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 17 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Riceville with Rev. Michael Parris officiating.

Interment was in St. Peter's Lutheran Cemetery in rural Riceville. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Clarence, 86, died Thursday, June 13, 2002 at the Riceville Community Rest Home.

Clarence Howard Walker was born April 11, 1916 in Esmond, ND, the son of Christopher and Bernice Marlenee Walker. He attended local schools. He graduated from high school in Colo.

On June 22, 1941 he married Gayle Polton at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Clarence entered the army in 1942 and served in New Guinea in the East Indies Campaigns and achieved the rank of staff sergeant. They farmed near State Center and then moved to a farm in rural Saratoga. Clarence was an independent truck driver and in later years worked for Mehmert Trucking. Clarence and Gayle moved into Riceville in 1964.

He was an avid reader, fisherman, and was an avid Riceville Wildcat's fan.

He is survived by two sons: Robert of Riceville and Michael of Kaiser, MO; four daughters: Evelyn Torney of Eastman, WI, Nancy Dobbs of Osage, Betty Koschmeder of Riceville, and Kathleen Tonn of Britt; 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; and one sister: Elaine Stamm of Twain Heart, CA.

Clarence was preceded in death by his wife Gayle in May 1991; one grandson; one granddaughter; his parents; and one sister: Natalie Suddarth.


Kenneth Roesler

Funeral services for Kenneth Roesler were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Lime Springs with Rev. Linda Johnson Prestholt officiating.

Interment was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Roy Lidtke, Dale Reis, Jay Ryon, Lyle Ryon, Gene Warnke, and Wilton Thomas. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Kenneth, 75, died Saturday, June 15, 2002 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN.

Kenneth L. Roesler was born August 4, 1926 in Lime Springs, the son of Lucius and Laura (Monthy) Roesler. He was baptized at St. Paul's Lutheran Church at Davis Corners. He was confirmed at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Lime Springs. He graduated from Lime Springs High School.

He was a substitute mail carrier for his father and continued for a time after his father's death. He worked at several garages and later he opened Kenney's Repair Shop at his home.

He was active in his church as a member of the Lutheran Brotherhood, a janitor and an usher.

He helped people plow snow and enjoyed his many cats and kittens.

He is survived by his sister: Geneva Prinz of Lime Springs.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents.


 Brian Daniel Ellerman 

Brian Daniel Ellerman, 23, of Clarksville, Iowa, died Saturday, June 15, 2002, in rural Clarksville of carbon monoxide poisoning. Brian was born on May 11, 1979, in Lodi, California, the son of Jane M. Thorn and Allan William Ellerman. Brian lived in Lodi, California for 3 years, later moving to the Clarksville and Allison areas. Brian attended school in Allison and Clarksville and following his schooling, he worked with Miller Construction, Countryside Welding, did mechanic work and also helped out area farmers. Brian enjoyed playing the guitar, listening to music, poetry, hiking, camping, fishing and spending time with his family and friends. Brian was known and loved by his family and friends for his gentle spirit and soft heart. He is survived by his mother Jane Thorn and her husband, Steve of Clarksville, Iowa; his father, Allan Ellerman of Washington State, Washington; three sisters: Jennifer Ellerman of Allison, Iowa, LeaAnne Thorn of Truckee, California, Terri Thorn of Keystone, Colorado; one brother, Steve Thorn of Kesley, Iowa; paternal grandparents, Janet Gaede of Tripoli, Iowa and William Ellerman; maternal grandparents, Dan and Florence Vance of Pottsboro, Texas; great grandmother, Tena Mjones of Clarksville, Iowa; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. A celebration of life service was held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at Church of Christ, Clarksville, Iowa with Rev. Val Swinton officiating. Memorials may be directed to the family.


Robert D. Schafer

Funeral services for Robert D. Schafer, 64, of Dougherty, were held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 19, 2002, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene with Pastor Tom Healey, Chaplain of Hospice of North Iowa officiating. Robert Duane Schafer was born November 29, 1937 on the Schafer family farm, where he has lived his entire life. He is the son of Charles J. and Goldie B. (Uker) Schafer, and died Sunday, June 16, 2002 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City. He was baptized on January 16, 1938 and confirmed July 22, 1952, both at St. Peter Lutheran Church. He received his education in the rural Scott Township Schools and graduated from the Greene High School in 1956. Bob farmed on the family farm and also started at White Farm Mfg. in Charles City where he worked until the factory closed. He continued farming and worked part-time at Kraft Foods in Mason City. On February 8, 1959, he was united in marriage to Kay Frances Worley at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene. To this union were born three daughters. Bob and Kay enjoyed spending time with family and in later years with the grandchildren. Bob will be remembered for his love of the Greene Rams and the Minnesota Vikings, and having coffee in town with his friends. His hobbies included collecting John Deere equipment including toy tractors. Bob is survived by his wife of 43 years, Kay of Dougherty, three daughters: Shelly McLaughlin of Mason City, Brenda and Tom Smalley of Le Mars, Lisa and Brian Cole of Nashua; five grandchildren: Ashley McLaughlin, Sean and Brook Smalley, Spencer and Blake Cole; one sister: Elaine Miller of Cherokee Village, Arkansas; a step sister: Mary Elizabeth Ahrens of Rosemont, Minnesota and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Harold Trible, and brothers: Roger and Merlyn. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Robert D. Schafer Memorial Fund in care of the family. Special music for the funeral was provided by organist, Sandra Schuknecht accompanying soloist, Shelly McLaughlin singing “Faithful Servant” and the congregation singing “Just As I Am” and “Eagles Wings”. Flower attendants were June Johnson and Charmaine Wiebke. Casket bearers were Dale Johnson, Dean Debner, Bill Worley, Jon Worley, Charles Schafer and Tod Miller. Honorary casket bearers were Dan Osier, Daniel Downing, and Tom Ramker. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene.


Anthony Courtney

Funeral services for Anthony Courtney of Decorah were held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 21 at the First Lutheran Church with Rev. Ginny Olson officiating.

Interment was in First Lutheran Church Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers were: Kory Courtney, Lucas Courtney, Jason Engle, Jeremy Engle, Joseph Engle, Josh Engle, Justin Engle, Kristina Falck, Randy Hageman, Russell Hageman, and BreAnna Ryan. Pallbearers were: Brady Bakken, Jarred Byrnes, James Courtney, Kelly Courtney, Chuck Kraft, and Shay Mahoney. Fjelstul Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Anthony, 21, was found dead Tuesday, June 18, 2002 in Green Quarry north of Postville pending medical examiner's investigation.

Anthony Brian Courtney was born February 2, 1981 in Decorah, the son of Brian J. and Randeen E. (Halverson) Courtney. He was baptized at First Lutheran church on March 8, 1981 by Rev. Paul H. Christenson. He attended Crestwood High School. He has been working for Bruening Rock Products of Decorah.

He liked watching sports and enjoyed spending time with his friends.

He is survived by his father and step-mother: Brian and Karen Courtney of Decorah; his mother: Randeen Halverson of Ridgeway; three brothers: James of Sheldon, Kris of Ridgeway, and Chad of Decorah; two sisters: Andrea Albertson of Protivin and Katie Courtney of Decorah; maternal grandmother: Elaine and Ronald Ryan of Harmony, MN; paternal grandmother: Ruth Courtney of Decorah; paternal step-grandfather: Burton Gavle of Decorah; and maternal great-grandparents: Warren and Inez Harvey of Ridgeway.

Anthony was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather: Richard Halverson; paternal grandfather: Lawrence Courtney; paternal step-grandmother: Kathryn Gavle.


Velma Keune

Funeral services for Velma "Pee-Wee" Keune of Stewartville, MN were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 24 at Vine Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Tom Koellin officiating.

Interment was in Oaklawn Cemetery in Cresco. Vine Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Velma, 95, died Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at the Stewartville Care Center.

Velma Beatrice Powers Keune was born October 2, 1906 in Dolliver.

On September 30, 1930 she married Gordon Keune in Cresco, and they later divorced. She lived in Cresco until 1962, then moved to Decorah until 1966, and has lived in the Rochester area since 1967. Velma resided with her daughter and her family for 17 years.

She was a bookkeeper/ nanny, retiring in 1967. She was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and WELCA.

She is survived by three grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Velma was preceded in death by one daughter: Gloria Johnson; seven brothers: and one sister.


Tyler Ronnei

Funeral services for Tyler Ronnei of New Hampton were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 25 at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Kevin Frey and Rev. David Bergstrom officiating.

Interment was in New Hampton City Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Eric Zack, Josh Knutson, Kipp Jones, and Andy Geerts. Hugeback Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Tyler Ronnei, 16 months old, died Friday, June 21, 2002 accidentally at his home.

Tyler James Ronnei was born in New Hampton, the son of Trevor Ronnei and Jaime Schwier.

His great love was "Blues Clues" sleeping every night with his big Blues Clues Pillow. Tyler's best friend was D.O.G.

He is survived by his parents: Trevor Ronnei and Jaime Schwier of New Hampton;maternal grandparents: Scott and Karen Schwier of New Hampton; maternal grandparents: Fran Ingalls of Parker, SD; Lynn and Donnabeth Schwier of Cherokee; paternal grandparents: Helen and Tom Beerts of North Washington; Lad and Cheryl Ronnei of Fredericksburg; paternal great-grandparents: Paul Ronnei of New Hampton; Normadge Plummer of Fredericksburg; Elmer and Charolette Heying of New Hampton, and Louis Geerts of New Hampton.

Tyler was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandfather: "Curly" Ingalls; paternal great-grandparents: Noreen Ronnei; Gordon Plummer, Katherine Geerts, and Bernice Heying.


Hayden Huebner

Funeral services were held in Marshfield, WI for Hayden John Huebner, infant son of Dr. Julie Doubek-Huebner and Barry Huebner.

Hayden, and his identical twin brother, Michael, were born June 21, 2002 in Marshfield, WI. He weighed two pounds, seven ounces and was 14 and one half inches long.

He is survived by his parents; brother: Michael; sisters: LeAnn and Mary Schwarz; paternal grandmother: Jeanine Martinson of Stratford, WI; maternal grandparents: Roger and Elaine Doubek, Kay and Dennis Herold, all of Cresco; maternal great-grandparents: Floyd and Connie Herold of Decorah; and great-great-grandmother: Gertrude Herold of Decorah.

Hayden was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather: Earl Hebner; and maternal great-grandparents: Charles and Viola Doubek and Donald and Vira Webber.


Margaret Bartz

Funeral services for Margaret Bartz of New Hampton were held at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25 at Trinity Lutheran Church - Fireside Chapel, New Hampton with Rev. David Bergstrom and Rev. Kevin Frey officiating.

Interment was in the New Hampton City Cemetery with nieces and nephews as pallbearers. Hugeback Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Margaret, 95, died Friday, June 21, 2002 at Sunrise Guest Home, Fredericksburg, of natural causes.

Margaret E. Bartz was born December 19, 1906 in Dayton Township, rural Chickasaw County, the daughter of Gottieb and Bertha (Gall) Bartz. She attended rural country schools. During her life, Margaret made her home with her sister Pauline Hackman until moving to the Heritage Residence. She became a resident of the Sunrise Guest Home on August 4, 1996.

Margaret was preceded in death by three brothers: Julius, Frederick, and Walter; and five sisters: Pauline Hackman, Marie Ean, Alvina Gardner, Clara Flath, and Augusta Guhl.


Vernice Heim

Funeral services for Vernice Heim of St. Charles were held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26 at the St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in St. Charles with Rev. James Callahan officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in St. Charles. Hoff Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Vernice, 98, died Saturday, June 22, 2002 at the Hillcrest Community Care Center in Plainview, MN.

Vernice Marie Heim was born January 24, 1904 in St. Charles, the daughter of Thomas and Mary (Brown) Stevens. She attended school in St. Charles, graduating in 1922. She went to normal training for teaching at Winona Teachers College. She taught in several country schools from 1922 to 1928.

On August 24, 1927 she married Norman Heim.

Vernice was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church and was involved in many activities of the church.

She loved traveling and playing cards.

She is survived by two sons: Thomas of St. Charles and Ken of Rochester, MN; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and one brother: Leo of Atlanta, GA.

Vernice was preceded in death by her husband; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her parents; and one sister.


James Simpson

Funeral services for "Mike" James Simpson were held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26 at the Conway Funeral Home in Cresco with Rev. Linda Johnson-Prestholt officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Pallbearers were: Rick Wangen, Steve Good, Dean Hron, Jon Fisher, Mike Wilson, and Terry Murray. Honorary pallbearers were: Ronnie Bronner, Gene Bronner, Delbert Ihns, Jr., and Gary Murray.

James, 41, died Saturday, June 22, 2002 at the Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco of an apparent heart attack.

James Michael Simpson was born April 28, 1961 in Houston, TX, the son of Murl Bruce and Ella (McVay) Simpson. He attended school in Houston and worked at various jobs. Mike had married and later divorced. In 1990, he relocated to Iowa, where two of his brothers were living.

He worked for a short period of time at Featherlite Trailers and about seven years ago, he started working as a mechanic at Rick's Repair in Cresco.

He loved to hunt and fish.

He is survived by special friend: Lori Patterson; one daughter: Tabatha; his father: Murl of Pasadena, TX; three brothers: his twin, Kenneth of Charles City, Joe of Mason City, and Bruce of Houston, TX; and one sister: Sandy Simpson of Phoenix, AZ.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother: Ella.


Merlin Straw

Funeral services for Merlin "Shorty" Straw will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, June 26 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton with Rev. David Bergstrom and Rev. Kevin Frey officiating.

Interment will be in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Boyd. Hugeback Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Merlin, 71, died Sunday, June 23, 2002 at his home of natural causes.

Merlin Jesse Straw was born December 28, 1930 in rural Bremer County, the son of Jesse and Hazel (Fulcher) Straw. He attended the Spring Fountain Lutheran School in Spring Fountain.

On June 4, 1955 he married Joan McAllen at the Williamstown United Methodist Church. They made New Hampton their home. He worked as a truck driver and then as a meat cutter for the Vern Bierbaum Locker. He later went to work at the Barney Ball Corner Grocery followed by several years with Hy-Vee in Waterloo and Charles City. Shorty opened New Hampton Meat Processors which he operated with his family until retiring in 1992.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, canning, and cooking.

He is survived by his wife Joan; three daughters: Wendy J. Goebel of Key West, FL, Terese Straw of New Hampton, and Lynn Haugen of Fredericksburg; three grandsons; and two sisters: Vivian Volker and Vera Bunger of New Hampton.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers: Earl and Dale.


Evelyn Dempewolf

Funeral services for Evelyn Dempewolf were held on Thursday, June 27 at Zion United Methodist Church, rural Cresco with Rev. Lewis Flanigan officiating.

Interment was in Cedar Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Royal Dempewolf, Jason Dempewolf, Dan Dorn, Will Welch, Brent Bronner, and Gerald Keune. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Evelyn, 82, died Monday, June 24, 2002 at the Regional Health Services of Howard County.

Evelyn Dempewolf was born November 15, 1919 on a farm east of Cresco, the daughter of Roy and Jennie (Davis) Dempewolf. When she was a year old her parents moved to a farm north of Cresco where she lived until their deaths in 1967 and 1968. She made her home with an aunt and uncle in Lime Springs until 1988 when she moved to a mobile home located on her sister's farm north of Cresco. She moved to the Evans Memorial Home in February of 1998.

She worked for a short time in Rochester as a housekeeper for a family and then at Mayo Women's Club and Mayowood. She also worked for a time at HECO in Harmony.

She is survived by two brothers: Virgil and Morris, both of Spring Valley, MN; and one sister: Irene Krueger of Cresco.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents.


Samuel Bigalk

Funeral services for Samuel Bigalk were held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 28 at St. Matthews Lutheran Church in Granger, MN with Rev. Keith Parker officiating.

Interment was in Greenfield Cemetery in Harmony. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Sam died June 25, 2002 at the Harmony Healthcare.

Samuel August Milton Bigalk was born April 30, 1909 in Albion Township, Howard County. He attended high school in Cresco, where he excelled in academics, music, basketball and track. After completing high school, Sam attended the University of Minnesota, then assisted his father on the farm.

He married Margaret Applen in 1932 and started farming in Harmony Township, later buying land in Bristol Township and continued to farm until his retirement in 1972 when they moved to Harmony. Margaret died in 1977 after a long battle with diabetes.

Sam married Ottie Applen in 1978 and they divided their time between Harmony and their winter home in Lakeland, FL. Ottie died in 1995 and Sam continued to live in his home in Harmony until he developed Parkinson's disease in 1998 and he moved into the Harmony Nursing Home.

He enjoyed hunting, trapping, fishing, carpentry, reading, and traveling.

He sponsored nine farm foreign exchange students. He served on the Bristol Center Township School Board and the Harmony Public School Board.

He was a member of St. Matthews Lutheran Church.

He is survived by two daughters: Rosalie Rusovick of Rochester, MN, and Rita Vollmer of Prior Lake, MN; one son: David of Harmony; nine grandchildren; two step grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a half sister: Pauline Bailey of Austin, MN.

Samuel was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret; wife, Ottie; one daughter: Marlys Rae; one son: Bruce; his parents; a half sister: Edna; and a half brother: Donald.


John Stockman, Jr.

Funeral services for John Stockman, Jr. of Bryon, MN were held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 2 at Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco with interment in Kendallville-Eddy Cemetery in rural Cresco.

John, 71, died Friday, June 28, 2002 at the Seasons Hospice in Bryon, MN.

John Stockman, Jr. was born March 17, 1931, the son of John and Ruth (Johnson) Stockman, Sr. He grew up on the family farm six miles northeast of Cresco. He attended the Fremont Township Elementary School and Cresco High School graduating in 1950. He enrolled in Upper Iowa University and graduated in 1956. Between those dates, he spent time in the armed service during the Korean War, most of the time at Ft. Lewis, WA. Following college graduation, he went to work at the IBM Corporation at their new plant at Rochester, MN where he spent 35 years. He retired in January of 1992.

He was an avid skier and enjoyed raising horses. He was a member of the American Legion Post of Stewartville, MN and the Masonic Lodge in New Hampton.

He is survived by one sister: Alta Jean Holmes of Wilmington, OH.


Arnott Argall

Funeral services for Arnott "Arnie" Argall of Lawler will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, July 3 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton with Rev. David Bergstrom officiating.

Interment will be in St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in Spillville. Pallbearers are: Ken Benning, Joe Scally, Bob Cuvelier, Virgil Mashek, Mark Timlin, and Don Benz. Hugeback Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Arnott, 89, died Sunday, June 30, 2002 at the New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of natural causes.

Arnott F. Argall was born May 28, 1913 in Lawler, the only son of Fred G. and Elizabeth (Benz) Argall. He lived most of his life in the house where he was born in Lawler. He graduated from Lawler High School in 1931 and later attended Gem City Business College in Quincy, IL. He served in W.W. II from 1942-1945, with the U.S. Army, 80th Quartermasters Depot Supply Company in Iceland and France.

In December, 1947 he married Gladys Haug of Spillville in Cedar Falls. Arnott was employed with the State Bank of Lawler for 37 years until retiring in 1978. He was a 50 year member of the Harold Redman American Legion Post #279 of Lawler.

He enjoyed gardening, fishing, wintering in Texas, and working with wood.

He is survived by his wife Gladys; and one daughter: Annette Argall of Austin, TX.

Arnott was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters: Amy Argall and Edith Pollath.



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