Raymond Trachta

Funeral services for Raymond "Ray" Trachta of Cresco were held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 5 at Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Raymond, 72, died Friday, October 1, 2004 at the Regional Health Services of Howard County.

Raymond C. Trachta was born April 6, 1932 in Schley, the son of Louis and Mary (Pisney) Trachta. Ray graduated from Notre Dame High School. After graduation Ray entered into the U.S. Army. He obtained the rank of Sergeant and fought during the Korean War. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he worked for Rath Packing in Waterloo. He later worked for Cresco Machine, and then for Kratz Motors which became H & S Motors, which is where he worked until his retirement in December of 1999.

On April 18, 1959 he married Celeste Bouska in Cresco.

Ray enjoyed his children, and looked forward to his daily car ride with Vern and Herky.

He is survived by his wife Celeste; two sons: Vern of Cresco and Rod of Winona, MN; three brothers: Joe, Paul and Louis, Jr.; and one sister: Betty Neubauer.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents.

Idell Tessmer

Funeral services for Idell Tessmer of Fredericksburg were held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 5 at Peace United Church of Christ in Fredericksburg with Pastor Laura Hucke officiating.

Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg. Pallbearers were her grandchildren: Chris Weber, Frederick Weber, Matthew Weber, Paul Tessmer-Tuck, Peter Tessmer, Jennifer Thompson, Ann Flaws, John Scheel, James Scheel, Paula Schreurs, and Stephanie Grendahl. Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Idell, 88, died Saturday, October 2, 2004 at Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo.

Idell P. Tessmer was born June 29, 1916 at Fredericksburg, the daughter of Doc Compton and Jeanette Lulu (Richardson) Parks. She graduated from Fredericksburg High School in 1934.

On August 9, 1936 she married Paul A. Tessmer in Chicago, IL. They farmed near Fredericksburg until moving to town in 1947. She was a member of Peace United Church of Christ, Eastern Star, Northeast Iowa Artist Association and the Fredericksburg Garden Club.

Painting and golf were hobbies of hers, but her true love was for gardening and flowers.

She is survived by four children: Rev. Fred Tessmer of Hudson, Mary Scheel of Sioux Falls, SD, Bette Forster of Fridley, MN, and June Weber of Waterloo; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and one sister: Jeanette Knight of Fullerton, CA.

Idell was preceded in death by her husband Paul on July 17, 1993; her parents; four brothers: George, Thomas, Woodrow, and an infant; and five sisters: Dorothy, Ruth, Cynthia, Loerna, and Doris.

Evelyn Schmitt

Funeral services for Evelyn Schmitt were held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 22 at St. Boniface Church in Waukee.

Interment was in Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. Westover Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Evelyn, 80, died Sunday, September 19, 2004 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines.

Evelyn A Schmitt was born September 9, 1924 in St. Lucas, the daughter of Louis and Barbara (Joanna) Winter.

On August 29, 1944 she married Clarence Schmitt in Waucoma. They farmed in Fort Atkinson for 24 years. In 1968, after a construction accident, they moved to Marion where she worked at a dental lab. In 1993, they moved to Waukee to be close to family.

She was a member of St. Boniface Church.

She is survived by two sons: Robert of White Bear Lake, MN and Dennis of Clarinda; two daughters: Kathy Simeno of Urbandale and Janice Baughman of Williamsburg; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two sisters: Dorothy Holthaus and Marie Schissel; and one brother: Linus Winter.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband Clarence; her parents; two grandchildren; and eight brothers and sisters.

Anna Lindell

Funeral services for Anna Lindell of Cresco will be held at 11:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, October 6 at the First Congregational Church in Cresco with Pastor Tim Sir officiating.

Interment will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery in Cresco. Pallbearers are: Larry Frank, Tom Williams, Bill Wentworth, Clint J. Lindell, Stephen Johnson, and Joe Sir. Conway Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Anna, 17, died Sunday, October 3, 2004 from injuries suffered in an automobile accident in Winneshiek County, Iowa.

Anna Marie Lindell was born June 6, 1987 at Ashland, WI, the daughter of Clinton and Mary (Chapman) Lindell. She lived in Mauston, WI and as a young girl, she moved to Cresco with her mother. She attended Cresco Elementary and Crestwood High School through her sophomore year and elected to be home schooled this past year.

Anna enjoyed reading, writing poems, hanging out with her friends and listening to all types of music, which was a big part of her life. She loved kids and elderly people and was more willing to help them than doing things for herself.

She is survived by her mother: Mary of Cresco; her father: Clinton of Hayward, WI; one brother: Clinton J. of Lime Springs; and maternal grandmother: Lillie Chapman of Ridgeway.

Anna was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather: James Chapman; and paternal grandparents: Carol and Erma Lindell.

Walter Jones

Funeral services for Walter Jones of Cresco will be held at 11:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, October 6 at the Cresco Community Chapel in Cresco with Rev. Mike Simiele officiating.

Interment will be in Chester Hill Cemetery in Chester. Lindstrom Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Walter, 76, died Saturday, October 2, 2004 at his home.

Walter J. Jones was born April 1, 1928 in LeRoy, MN, the son of Hollis and Inga (Hansen) Jones. He was awarded a Purple Heart while serving in the Army in the Korean War.

On December 24, 1950 he married Zona Perry in LeRoy, MN. Walter was one of the founding fathers of the Cresco Community Chapel.

Walter began a 37 year career in communications when he was hired as a lineman in March of 1950 for the Central Iowa Telephone Company in LeRoy. Then in June of 1958, he moved to Cresco where he worked as a lineman with the telephone company. He moved his family to Grinnell in June of 1979 where he became a technical instructor at the General Telephone training center from where he retired on April 30, 1987. He and Zona returned to Cresco in June of 2002.

He loved to camp and fish.

He is survived by his wife Zona of Cresco; his children: Linda Conn of Cedar Rapids, David of Cresco, Rhonda Vobr of Cresco, Brenda O'Halloran of Grinnell, and James of Grinnell; 10 grandchildren; four brothers: Harold of LeRoy, Don of Chester, Vernon of Lime Springs, and Roger of Manchester; and one sister: Carol Mullenbach of Rose Creek, MN.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Clarence; and one sister: Helen Eastland.

Joseph Whalen

Funeral services for Joseph "Joe" Whalen of Harmony, MN were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 4 at St. Agnes Catholic Church at Plymouth Rock.

Interment was in Plymouth Rock Church Cemetery. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Joseph, 80, died Friday, October 1, 2004 at the Harmony Health Care in Harmony, MN.

Joseph LaVern Whalen was born May 28, 1924 the son of Paul, Sr. and Myrtle (Roche) Whalen. After graduating from high school, Joe served his country by entering the Navy and serving during WWII. He was a member of the V.F.W. in Decorah, as well as the American Legion of Harmony.

On January 6, 1945 he married Doris Mae Wernet. When Joe returned from serving his country, he and Doris farmed all their life in rural Canton, MN.

He enjoyed dancing to Cab Driver and his Belgium horses.

He is survived by seven children: Rosella Carolan of Decorah, Linda Fishbaugher of Harmony, Dennis of Harmony, Thomas of Harmony, Blaine of Harmony, Joseph, Jr. of Bur Oak, and Keri of Burr Oak; 25 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three brothers: Edward of Canton, LaVern of Rochester, MN, and Larry of Rochester; and one sister: Lucy Took of LaCrosse, WI.

Joseph was preceded in death by his wife Doris; one son: Philip; one granddaughter; his parents; three brothers: Harold, Quentin, and Paul; and one sister: Delone.

Wilfred Lansing

Funeral services for Wilfred Lansing of Ossian were held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 2 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian with Msgr. Cletus J Hawes officiating.

Interment was in St. Francis Cemetery in Ossian. Pallbearers were: Joel Kuennen, Todd Gerleman, Troy Gerleman, Shawn Lansing, Shelby Lansing, Shane Lansing, Patrick Lansing, Scott Lansing, Corey Hruska, and Christopher Hruska. Schmitz Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Wilfred, 90, died Thursday, September 30, 2004 at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in LaCrosse, WI after suffering a heart attack.

Wilfred Joseph Lansing was born March 2, 1914 in Military Township, Winneshiek County, near Ossian, the son of William F. and Regina (Huber) Lansing. He was baptized and confirmed in his faith at St. Francis de Sales Church in Ossian of which he was a lifetime member. He attended and graduated from St. Francis DeSales School and returned home to work on the farm.

On October 24, 1939 he married Victoria J. Hageman at Our Lady of Seven Dolors Church in Festina by the late Rev. A.J. Rubly. They lived on a farm west of Ossian and farmed it until they retired and moved into town in 1972.

He was a member of St. Francis de Sales Church, its Rosary Society, its church choir, and the Knights of Columbus Council #2073 of which he was a former Grand Knight. He was also a member of the Farm Bureau.

He enjoyed fishing, gardening, traveling, card playing (especially cribbage), dancing, and doing carpentry work.

He is survived by his children: Bernice Kuennen of Marshfield, WI, DiAnn Gerleman of New Hampton, twins, Kenneth of Ossian, Keith of Sumner, and Nancy Lou Hruska of Cresco; 14 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Wilfred was preceded in death by his wife Victoria on December 31, 2003; one son: Clifford; one grandson; two brothers: George and Leo; and two sisters: Cyrilla Malloy and Mary Thuente.

Irene Erickson

Funeral services for Irene Erickson of Cresco will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 7 at Notre Dame Parish-St. Joseph's Worship Center in Cresco.

Interment will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery in Cresco.

Friends may call at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening with a 5:00 p.m. Rosary service and a 7:00 p.m. Legion Auxiliary service. Friends may also call one hour prior to services at the church.

Irene, 83, died Sunday, October 3, 2004 at the Regional Health Services of Howard County.

Irene Erickson was born August 17, 1921 in Canoe Township, Winneshiek County, the daughter of Philip and Clara (Goettelman) Kolegraph. She graduated from Decorah High School in 1938.

On May 17, 1939 she married Lyle Erickson in Decorah. They lived in Manitowoc, WI while Lyle was building submarines. They also farmed in the Frankville, Westgate and Decorah areas. They moved to Cresco in 1948. In Cresco Irene and Lyle started the E & B Tractor Company with Mr. Brunhagen, where she was the bookkeeper. She then worked for another Implement Dealer and also at the Credit Bureau. After Lyle got his Real Estate License she worked as bookkeeper and auction clerk with Lyle Erickson Real Estate and Auction Company, which is currently known as Erickson-Prochaska, Inc. After retiring in Cresco in 1985, she and Lyle moved to Bella Vista, AR. They started an Auction Company in Arizona. They returned to Cresco in 1989 but continued to spend the winter and early spring in warmer climates until Lyle passed away in 1994.

Organizations and Club Affiliations: National and Iowa Auctioneer

Association Auxiliary and server as President of both the state and national groups, also a Board Member and Historian of both groups, Cimota, GFWC, Howard County Historical Society as past Treasurer and board member, American Legion Auxiliary, Notre Dame Circles of Faith, served as President of the former St. Joe's Parish including the Finance Committee, was a member of the Board of Trustees of the Howard County Hospital. She was also one of the women responsible for starting the Howard County Hospital Auxiliary and served as its President. She was instrumental in starting the HCH (RHSHC) Scholarship awards and Chaired the annual Quilt Auction for several years.

Irene was also a member of the Notre Dame Parish, and an Honorary member of Crestwood FFA, she was also a Camp Fire Girl Leader for four years. She was also a past leader of the sewing circle of the former St. Joseph's Parish.

Most treasured awards and honors: First Inductee into the National

Association of Auctioneers Auxiliary Hall of Fame, being honored as the "Golden Girl" of the NAA Auxiliary at their 50th Anniversary Celebration, and being selected as the Grand Marshall of Cresco's Santa Parade.

She is survived by one son: Kenneth of Charlotte NC; one daughter: Barbara Prochaska of Cresco; four grandchildren; four great-grandsons; and one sister: Hazel Styve of Decorah.

Irene was preceded in death by her husband Lyle in 1994; her parents; and one brother: Walter.

Stephen Courtney

Funeral services for Stephen Courtney of Decorah were held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 30 at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Decorah with Rev. Gary Krapfl and Monsignor Edward Lechtenberg officiating.

Interment was in St. Bridget's Catholic Cemetery in Bluffton. Pallbearers were: Tim Courtney, Scott Courtney, Craig Courtney, Dick Carlsten, Dave Broghamer, and Shelby Courtney. Schluter-Balik Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Stephen, 74, died Monday, September 27, 2004 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN following a short illness.

Stephen Patrick Courtney was born June 6, 1930 near Bluffton, the son of Harry and Stella (Carolan) Courtney. He served in the Korean War in the US Army.

In 1953 he married Audrey Ruffridge. He drove truck for Wapsie Produce, Wisconsin Dairies, the Fred Carlson Company and Bruening Rock Products, where he retired in 1999.

He was a member of St. Benedict's Catholic Church and the Helof-Holm VFW Chapter #1977.

He is survived by four sons: Stephen of Decorah, Jim of Des Moines, John of Decorah, and Eric of Des Moines; two daughters: Janet Martinson of Winona, MN and Laurie Courtney of Des Moines; 14 grandchildren; four sisters: Marge Carlsten of Moline, IL, Marie Broghamer of Decorah, Louise Nichols of Papillion, NE, and Elaine Drummond of Houston, TX; and two brothers: Louis of Ridgeway and Vincent of Omaha, NE.

Stephen was preceded in death by his wife Audrey in 1972; one son: Joseph; his parents; and two brothers: Frank and Jay.

Beatrice McGovern

Funeral services for Beatrice McGovern were held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, September 27 at the Conway Funeral Home in Riceville with Rev. Ray Atwood officiating.

Interment was in Riverside Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Brian Knapp, Zachary Bell, Jon McGovern, Jake Roney, Jason McGovern, and Nicholas McGovern.

Beatrice, 90, died Saturday, September 25, 2004 at the Denver Sunset Home where she has made her home since June 26, 2002.

Beatrice R. McGovern was born on February 8, 1914 in Riceville, the daughter of F. Leo and Mable (Phippon) Murphy. She received her education in the rural school.

On December 12, 1931 she married Daniel Worple in Riceville. They farmed in the Riceville-Elma area. They owned and operated the Riceville Dry Cleaners from 1962 until 1969. Dan died on November 23, 1969 and Beatrice started cooking at Pettit's Caf/ until she retired in 1973 and she became a full time homemaker.

On February 3, 1973 she married Joseph McGovern in Riceville. He died on July 29, 1995.

She is survived by two children: Delmer Worple of Washburn and Donna Mae Torsrud of Evansdale; six step sons: Michael McGovern of Bentonville, AR, Arthur McGovern of Waterloo, Jon McGovern of Evansville, Terry McGovern of Riceville, Father Mark McGovern of Dyersville, and James McGovern of St. Paul, MN; six step daughters: Ruth McHyster of Boulder, CO, Merry Whittaker of New German, MN, Joan Britton of Portland, OR, Kathleen Luchwitz of Redington, FL, Jane McGovern of Minneapolis, MN, and Colleen McGovern of Denver, CO; five grandchildren; 10 great grandchilddren; 42 step grandchildren; 44 step great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; several step great-great-grandchildren; and one sister: Kathleen Goodbrand of Riceville.

Beatrice was preceded in death by her two husbands; her parents; one sister: Vivian Purtell; and two brothers: Lawrence and Joseph.

Dorothy Daskam

Funeral services for Dorothy Daskam were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 27 at the Cresco United Methodist Church in Cresco with Pastor Lewis Flanigan officiating.

Interment was in Eddy-Kendallville Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Heather and Brandon Brumm, Lindsay and Megan Daskam, and Jared and Brian Rance. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Dorothy, 78, died Thursday, September 23, 2004 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN after a short illness.

Dorothy Mae Daskam was born April 7, 1926 in rural Winneshiek County near the Minnesota border south of Harmony, MN, the daughter of Alonzo and Minnie (Radechel) Jacklin. She attended rural grade school in Winneshiek County, graduating from the eighth grade in 1939. She attended and graduated from Harmony High School in 1943.

On April 14, 1945 she married Donald Daskam at the Methodist parsonage in Harmony. They farmed in the Kendallville area moving into Cresco in 1978. She worked at the Howard-Winneshiek School from 1971 until 1988 in food service.

Dorothy belonged to the United Methodist Church, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the "Nifty-over-Fifty" exercise class.

She enjoyed antiquing, garage sales, reading, and collecting copper.

She is survived by her children: Kathy Brumm of Rochester, MN, Allan of Cresco, and Darla Rance of Lime Springs; seven grandchildren; and one sister: Eleanor Kittleson of Blooming Prairie, MN.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband Donald on September 3, 1986; and her parents.

Paul Broadwater

Funeral services for Paul Broadwater were held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 2 at the United Methodist Church in Harmony, MN.

Interment was in Oak Hill Cemetery in Granger, MN. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Paul died Tuesday, September 28, 2004 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN.

Paul Duane Broadwater was born August 20, 1923, the son of Floyd and Laura (Swanger) Broadwater. He was raised on a farm in Bristol Township He graduated from Preston High School in 1941. After high school, he served in the US Army and was a veteran of World War II.

On June 22, 1945 he married Eva Jane Serfling in Harmony. After graduating from Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis, specializing in sheet metal work, he purchased a plumbing and heating business in Harmony. He owned and managed Broadwater Plumbing and Heating for 31 years before retiring. After selling his business in 1981, they spent several winters in Florida and Arizona.

He was a Volunteer Fireman and Village Councilman, a member of the American Legion, the Lions Club, Masonic Lodge 289 and the Harmony United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife Eva Jane; three daughters: Cynthia Matson of Oberlin, KS, Sally Marcuson of Overland Park, KS, and Mary Broadwater of Rochester, MN; six grandchildren; and one sister: Helen Sorg of Baraboo, WI.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and five brothers: Milton in infancy, Gordon, Ralph, Galen, and Clair.

Posted on 07/10/2004 by Gene Manning

Geraldine Simons

Funeral services for Geraldine "Geri" Simons of New Hampton were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 7 at Holy Family Parish-St. Mary's Center in New Hampton with Msgr. Carl Schmitt officiating.

Interment was in St. Mary's Cemetery in New Hampton. Pallbearers were: Glen Benson, J.C. Schnurr, Brad Bumba, Dave Kraft, Kent York, and Jim Miller. Hugeback & Cenoweth Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Geraldine, 80, died Monday, October 4, 2004 at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton.

Geraldine Ann Simons was born November 20, 1923 in New Hampton, the daughter of Clarence and Marie (Conrad) Schnurr. She graduated from New Hampton High School.

She married Dutch Simons of Pennsylvania and was later divorced. She worked at the Oliver Corporation in Charles City for many years as a Blueprint Operator. Geri also owned and operated "Gifts by Mimi" for 20 years.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister: Vivian Schnurr.

Orella Schwickerath

Funeral services for Orella Schwickerath of New Hampton were held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 6 at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph Center in New Hampton with Msgr. Carl Schmitt officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery. Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Orella, 79, died Sunday, October 3, 2004 at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton of natural causes.

Orella Mildred Schwickerath was born July 6, 1925 at New Hampton, the daughter of Ulysses and Anna (Roehrich) Stansbery. She received her education at country schools near her family's home.

On September 12, 1942 she married Louis Schwickerath at St. Joseph Church in New Hampton. They resided in New Hampton for a short time and then moved to a farm in Nashua and later Ionia. In 1950 they moved to a farm north of New Hampton. The couple tiled for many years. After Louis' death in 1983, Orella moved to New Hampton.

She enjoyed quilting, reading, listening to the scanner, hunting trips out West with John and Louise, going to the cabin, and car rides.

She was a member of the Holy Family Parish and Rosary Society.

She was survived by two daughters: Ardel Boyle of Elma and Carol Jirak of New Hampton; one son: Gerald of Foley, MN; 16 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two sisters: Sylvia Nystel of New Hampton and Rose Nystel of New Hampton; and one brother: Lawrence of Waterloo.

Orella was preceded in death by her husband Louis; one son: John; one granddaughter; one grandson; one great-grandson; her parents; one brother: Ervin; and one sister: Edna Maklenburg.

David Reicks

Funeral services for David Reicks of Protivin will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, October 13 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin with Rev. John Moser and Monsignor Leander Reicks concelebrating the Mass.

David's wife Sue, children Trisha and Cory, and his parents Eugene and Grace Reicks will place the pall. Interment will be in Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Lawler. Pallbearers are: Dean Reicks, Frank Mueterthies, Mark Hageman, John Mihm, Wayne Gray, Joe Lensing, Howard Lensing, Mark Kuhn, Ralph Reicks, Victor Servantez, Bob Reicks, Roger Reicks, Jim Reicks, and Joey Huinker. Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

David, 46, died Saturday, October 9, 2004 at his home after a year long battle with cancer.

David William Reicks was born March 14, 1958 at New Hampton, the son of Eugene and Grace (Huinker) Reicks. He was raised on a farm near Lawler. He attended Mt. Carmel Catholic School in Lawler and graduated from Turkey Valley High School in 1976. Following high school, David continued his education at NICC in Calmar and graduated with a degree in farm mechanics. After his schooling he worked around the area and later moved to Minneapolis, where he worked as a mechanic in a service station. After a short time he moved back to Protivin to farm and raise hogs.

On September 14, 1985 he married Sue Johnson at Reilly Ridge Catholic Church near Lawler. They resided on a farm near Protivin. He continued raising hogs until he took a job at Mracek Electric in Protivin. He worked there until starting Dave Reicks Plumbing, Heating and Electric a few years ago. During the past year much of his time was spent remodeling his family's entire home.

He enjoyed a fishing trip to Alaska which included driving the Al-can Highway 4000 miles from Alaska to Iowa.

He enjoyed fishing, camping, tractors, tinkering, working on inventions, and playing cards.

He was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin.

He is survived by his wife Sue of Protivin; two children: Trisha and Cory, both of Protivin; his parents Eugene and Grace Reicks of Lawler; seven brothers and sisters: Al of Pella, Eileen Nelson of Eau Claire, WI, Kathy VanWinkle of Farmington, Duane of Protivin, LeeAnn Hogan of Anchorage, AK, Mike of Lawler, and Steve of Solon.

David was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Marjorie Hughes

Private graveside services for Marjorie Hughes were held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, October 11 at Oaklawn Cemetery.

Marjorie, 90, died Sunday, October 10, 2004 at the Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Majorie R. Hughes was born February 13, 1914 in Pipestone, MN, the daughter of Emory and Blanche Adams. She graduated in 1933 from Sioux Falls High School in South Dakota. Following graduation, she moved to Cresco to care for her grandfather, the late W.B. Perry. It was in Cresco where she met her first husband, James Lee Loughrey. To this marriage were born three children: Delores Nielsen of Branson, MO, Dr. Tom Loughrey of Kirkwood, MO, and Mary Lea Fredericksen of Cedar Rapids. James passed away in June of 1948. In 1955, she married H. Henry Hughes of Cresco. They became the parents of Lillian E. Hughes of Branson, MO.

Marjorie was a member of the United Methodist Church and was actively involved in many areas of the church.

She is survived by her children: Delores Nielsen, Tom Loughrey, Mary Fredericksen, and Lillian Hughes; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Marjorie was preceded in death by two husbands; her parents; and her siblings: Irvine Bertram Adams, Ethel Blanche Floyd, Laura May Aldridge, Leonard Allen Adams, and Roger Warren Adams.

Merlin Lubbert

Funeral services for Merlin Lubbert of Riceville were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 12 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church at Maple Leaf in rural Elma with Rev. Dan Christensen officiating.

Interment was in Riverside Cemetery in Riceville. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Merlin, 70, died Friday, October 8, 2004 at Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Merlin E. Lubbert was born December 9, 1933 in Riceville, the son of Louis and Leota (Lauck) Lubbbert. He attended local schools and graduated from Riceville High School in 1952. He served his country in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958. During this time, Merlin helped in the testing of the atomic bomb program. After the service he became a realtor and worked in the State of Washington and Arizona.

He is survived by his mother: Leota Lubbert of Riceville; and one sister: Marlys Grete of Muscatine.

Merlin was preceded in death by his father Louis in 1981; and one brother: Kenneth.

Urban Drilling

Funeral services for Urban Drilling of Cresco were held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 12 at Notre Dame Parish-St. Joseph's Worship Center in Cresco with Rev. Henry W. Charipar officiating.

The family placed the pall. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Pallbearers were grandchildren: Jeannie Twine, Brenda Osborne, Dave Kriener, Dalton Prochaska, Jared Morrison, Jerry Morrison, Jeff Drilling, and Dan Kriener. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Urban, 88, died Saturday, October 9, 2004 at his home.

Urban was born June 3, 1916 on the family farm near Cresco, the son of Mathias and Catherine (Hageman) Drilling. He attended St. Joseph's Elementary School through the eighth grade. He spent two years taking a farming short course at Cresco High School.

On September 12, 1939 he married Mechtildis Kuennen at St. Luke's Catholic Church in St. Lucas. They farmed in the Cresco area until he retired in 1983. He served on the FHA County Committee and on the Parish Council.

He was a lifelong member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

He enjoyed dancing, playing cards and traveling. He was interested in horses, antique cars and farm equipment.

He is survived by his wife Mechtildis of Cresco; two sons: Wayne of Cresco and Mark of Nashua; two daughters: Karen Morrison of Dale, TX and Gayle Jirak of Waucoma; 22 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one sister: Ethel Funke of Cresco.

Urban was preceded in death by one daughter: Geniece Kriener and his parents.

Elizabeth Roe

Funeral services for Elizabeth Roe will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 14 at St. Michael Catholic Church in Norway with Rev. Paul Baldwin officiating.

Interment will be in St. Michael Cemetery in Norway.

A Vigil Service will be held Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. at Teahen Funeral Home in Walford where friends may call Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and at the church after 9:00 a.m.

Elizabeth, 96, died Sunday, October 10, 2004 at the Solon Care Center where she has lived since March 1997.

Elizabeth Mary Roe was born July 22, 1908 at the family homestead near Chester, the daughter of Patrick and Elizabeth (O'Haire) Kelly. She attended a one room schoolhouse near Chester through eighth grade and graduated from Chester High School. She graduated from the University of Iowa with three degrees. Elizabeth spent 23 years at Norway High School as a teacher of English, Literature, Speech, Drama and later became the head school librarian. She was instrumental in founding the Norway Library.

On August 21, 1935 she married Oakley Arlington Roe in Cresco. He died on Christmas day 1997.

She is survived by three sons: Terrance and Patrick, both of Hesperia, CA, and Michael of Wellman; three daughters: Maureen Salat of Spearfish, SD, Ellen Kashino of Hailey, ID, and Kathleen Schmid of Dubuque; 18 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren, and Patricia Roe; and two sisters: Margaret Eddy of Colorado Springs, CO and Patricia Johnson of Cresco.

Posted on 10/14/2004 by Gene Manning

Clarence Wendl

Funeral services for Clarence Wendl of Nashua, formerly of Cresco and Elkader were held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 14 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Nashua with Monsignor John Hemann officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Pallbearers were: Joe Wendl, Dick Wendl, Jeff Wendl, Dean Swenson, Matt Bruening, and Josh Bengfort. Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Clarence, 88, died Monday, Ocotber 11, 2004 at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

Clarence Paul Wendl was born September 20, 1916 in Cresco, the son of Joe and Anna (Hosek) Wendl. He graduated from Notre Dame High school in Cresco and later attended Loras College.

On October 4, 1940 he married Mayme R. Houdek at St. Raphael's Cathedral in Dubuque. He worked in the grocery business most of his life owning the U-Save Grocery in Cresco from the early 1950s to 1965. They moved to Elkader in 1965, where he worked as the meat department manager in various supermarkets in Elkader, Guttenberg, and Prairie du Chien, WI. Clarence managed the St. Olaf Co-op Grocery in St. Olaf until retiring in 1984, and moving to Nashua.

He was a lifetime member of Knights of Columbus.

He enjoyed sports of all kinds, especially baseball. He loved woodworking and tinkering around the house, and had a passion for his cars.

He is survived by his wife Mayme of Nashua; three sons: Gil of Charles City, Ron of Rochester, MN, and Steve of Anamosa; two daughters: Diane Foley of Rochester, MN and Judy Bengfort of Winona, MN; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Clarence was preceded in death by a stillborn daughter: Nancy; his parents; and two brothers: Eddie and Leonard.

Pauline Puffer

Funeral services for Pauline Puffer of Lime Springs were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 18 at Notre Dame Parish-Assumption Worship Center in Cresco with Rev. Henry W. Charipar officiating.

The family placed the pall. Interment was in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery in rural Elma. Pallbearers were her grandchildren. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Pauline, 76, died Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN.

Mary Pauline Puffer was born December 28, 1927 in Howard County, south of Davis Corners, the daughter of Peter S. and Elizabeth E. (Nibaur) Kovarik. She was baptized and confirmed in her faith in the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church where her family attended. She attended the rural school through the eighth grade, then moved to Cresco to attend Assumption High School. In order to pay for her living in town without her family, she started her long career in the restaurant business; she worked at the Klemmer's Caf/. Following her graduation in 1945, she attended a technical school in Chicago to learn to be a Teletype operator, then moved to the Twin Cities and worked for Cargill.

On October 22, 1948 she married William F. Puffer in Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

In 1955, Pauline opened the Davis Corners Store and continued to operate a top quality eating place for 49 years. She was known for many miles around for her homemade pies and quality meals.

She was a member of Assumption Church in Cresco, the Assumption Altar and Rosary Society and the American Legion Auxiliary.

She is survived by her children: William of Spring Valley, MN, Peter of Crystal, MN, Timothy of St. Paul, MN, and Dana of Rochester, MN; and 12 grandchildren.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother: Joseph Laverne.

Trudie Lienhard

Funeral services for Trudie Lienhard of Cresco will be private family services held at a later date and interment will be in New Oregon Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, October 20 at the Conway Funeral Home.

Trudie, 60, died Sunday, October 17, 2004 at her home after a long courageous battle with cancer.

Gertrude Kay Lienhard was born July 17, 1944 in Mitchell County, near Riceville, the daughter of Ben H. and Harriet A. (Volkart) Stevenson. She was employed as a cook at the Howard-Winneshiek Community School from 1990 until May of 2004 when she retired because of health.

She is survived by her husband Loel; five children: Jodi Henderson of Mission, KS, Jack Henderson of Austin, TX, Billi Johnson of Lime Springs, Amy Mauer, and Andy Lienhard, both of Rocheser, MN; one sister: Elizabeth Wherry of Riceville; and two brothers: Richard of Sheffield and Ben of McIntire.

Trudie was preceded in death by her parents; one brother: William; and two sisters: Margaret Lockhart and Virginia Stevenson.

A complete obituary will appear in next week's issue of the Times Plain Dealer.

Bessie Gillund

Funeral services for Bessie Gillund of Canton, MN will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 21 at the Henrytown Lutheran Church in Henrytown, MN.

Friends may call at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Harmony, MN from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening and one hour prior to services at the church.

Interment will be in Henrytown Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Bessie, 89, died Monday, October 18, 2004 at Gunderson Lutheran Hospital in LaCrosse, WI. Bessie has resided at the Green Lea Manor in Mabel, MN the last three years.

Bessie Irene Gillund was born July 5, 1915 in LaFarge, WI, the daughter of Franklin and Bertha Betts. She graduated from LaFarge High School and graduated from Normal.

On October 3, 1945 she married Norman Gillund in Harmony, and they lived in Canton. Norman died on October 31, 1961. After the death of her husband, Bessie worked many years at several area businesses including Control Data in Spring Grove, MN and Rush Products in Rushford. She was the coordinator for SEMCAC Dining Site, and driving dispatcher in Canton for seven years.

She was named Senior Citizen of the year for Fillmore County and Minnesota State Senior Citizen of the year. She was an active member of Henrytown Lutheran Church.

She is survived by three sons: Norman of Beloit, WI, Randy of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Jack of Alexandria, VA; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Bessie was preceded in death by her husband; one son: Dennis; two brothers; and three sisters.

Arlene Tveter

Funeral services for Arlene Tveter were held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 16 at Madison Lutheran Church, rural Decorah with Pastors Philip and Ginny Olson officiating.

Interment was in Madison Lutheran Cemetery, rural Decorah. Pallbearers were her grandchildren. Schluter & Balik Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Arlene, 83, died Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at the Winneshiek County Memorial Hospital in Decorah following a long illness.

Arlene Edna Tveter was born August 24, 1921 in Calmar Township, near Calmar, the daughter of Joseph and Myrtle (Wheatman) Flaskerud. She was baptized on September 15, 1921 at the Calmar Lutheran Church and confirmed on May 19, 1935 at the First Lutheran Church in Decorah. She attended country school and graduated from Ridgeway High School in 1941. She attended Luther College for one year from 1941-42 and then taught country school for two years.

On December 1, 1944 she married Louis Melvin Tveter at the First Lutheran Church in Decorah. They farmed in Madison Township until they retired in the fall of 1985. Arlene worked at Wapsie Produce and then for 10 years at the Silvercrest Golf Club.

She enjoyed doing counted cross-stitch, and was a wonderful cook and baker. She was a member of the Madison Lutheran Church, where she held various offices in Women of the ELCA.

She is survived by one son: David of Rosemount, MN; two daughters: Janelle Olson of Longmont, CO and LouAnn Bremer of Decorah; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and two sisters: Pearl Gilbertson of Ridgeway and Ruth Branhagen of Decorah.

Arlene was preceded in death by her husband Louis on November 29, 1991; one grandson; her parents; and one brother in infancy.

Posted on 10/21/2004 by Gene Manning

Jack Schulz

Funeral services for Jack Schulz of New Hampton were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 26 at Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in New Hampton with Pastor Kevin Frey of Trinity Lutheran Church officiating.

Inurnment was in the New Hampton City Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers were his five grandchildren: Tony Scherber, Matt Scherber, Hannah Schulz, Michelle Phillis and Adrianna Schulz.

Jack, 68, died Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at his home of natural causes.

Jack Schulz was born March 1, 1936 in Fredericksburg, the son of John T. and Emily (Klusmeier) Schulz. He attended school in New Hampton and was a 1954 graduate of New Hampton High School. He attended a year of college at Iowa State University in Ames.

In August of 1956 he married Delores Mae Shirley of Charles City. The couple later divorced. Jack worked as a carpenter and cabinet builder for the former Northern Great Plains Lumber Co. in New Hampton and then worked for many years for contractor, Al Bach in New Hampton.

In his later years he enjoyed building crafts at Christmas time with his brother, Richard and his daughter, Diane. He also enjoyed NASCAR, working on his cars, as well as collecting them.

He is survived by two sons: David of Ionia and Bob of New Hope, MN; one daughter: Diane DeVries of Floyd; five grandchildren.

Jack was preceded in death by an infant son: Allen; his parents; and two brothers: Gerald and Richard.

Ben Busta

Funeral services for Ben Busta of Protivin were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 26 at Assumption Parish, Little Turkey with Rev. John Moser officiating.

The pall was placed by his wife and four children. Interment was in St. Mary's Cemetery in Little Turkey. Pallbearers were grandsons: Jeffrey Ott, Tracey Ott, Kam Miller, Brian Sipos, Dan Kuennen, and Matt Busta. Honorary pallbearers were granddaughters: Natalie Busta, Sara Busta, Carrie Busta, Melissa Miller, Angie Sipos and Jeanne Kuennen. Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Ben, 90, died Saturday, October 23, 2004 at Regional Health Services in Cresco.

Ben W. Busta was born November 21, 1913 in rural Chickasaw County near Little Turkey, the son of W.A. and Anna (Jirak) Busta. He attended school at Rudolphinum High School, Protivin, graduating in 1934.

On Novemher 18, 1941 he married Lorraine Dvorak of Ridgeway at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville. They farmed south of Little Turkey. They retired into Protivin in 1986. Ben had been a Chickasaw County Supervisor for 21 years, a board member of the Hawkeye Tri County REC for 31 years and on the Dairyland Power Board for 13 years.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing cards, traveling, politics, and had been a pitcher on various baseball teams in his younger years.

He is survived by his wife Lorraine; two daughters: Mary Ann Ott of Waucoma and Alice Kuennen of Cedar Falls; two sons: James of Cedar Rapids and Steven of Little Turkey; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Robert; and six sisters: Anna Vrba, Elenora Skoda, Regina Pechota, Mayme Vrba, Nellie Denner, and Clara Soukup.

Bernice Wilkes

Funeral services for Bernice Wilkes of Dorchester, formerly of McIntire will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, October 27 at the Riceville United Methodist Church with Rev. Michael Cary officiating.

Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in Riceville. Lindstrom Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Bernice, 93, died Friday, October 22, 2004 at the Veteran's Memorial Hospital in Waukon.

Bernice Wilkes was born August 10, 1911 in Riceville, the daughter of William and Rosa (Gerhardt) Schrode. She attended local schools and graduated from Riceville High School.

On June 7, 1933 she married Ralph Wilkes in Hawkeye. She was a homemaker.

She is survived by one daughter: Dixie Lee Cook of Roseville, CA; two sons: Milo of Riceville and Lyle of Dorchester; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Bernice was preceded in death by her husband Ralph in 1987; her parents; and two sons: Mayo and Quentin.

Patricia Miller

Funeral services for Patricia (Dempewolf) Miller, of Waterloo, formerly of Cresco, were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 4 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Inurnment was in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Hagarty-Waychoff-Grarup Funeral Service handled the arrangements.

Patricia, 70, died Thursday, September 30 at Allen Hospital in Waterloo of natural causes.

Patricia L Miller was born April 25, 1934 in Cresco, the daughter of Theodore and Eunella (Herold) Dempewolf.

She marred Jack L. Miller in 1952 in Waterloo, and they later divorced.

Patricia was a homemaker.

She is survived by three sons: Ardie of Bettendorf, Craig of New Albin, and John of Clinton; two daughters: Kay Miller and Shellene Miller, both of Waterloo; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three sisters: Joann Sutton and Cindy Verbeck, both of Waterloo, and Sandy Turner of Cedar Falls.

Patricia was preceded in death by two sisters: Janice Dempewolf in infancy and Karen Scully; and one brother: Arden.

Barb Dagit

Funeral services for Barb Dagit of Lawler are pending with Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Lawler.

Barb, 64, died Saturday, October 23, 2004 at her home in Lawler.

Trudie Lienhard

Family services for Trudie Lienhard of Cresco were held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 21 at the Conway Funeral Home.

Interment was in New Oregon Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Lindsey, Louis and Jeromy Lienhard, Brendan, Jamie, Jared and Derek Stevenson.

Trudie, 60, died Sunday, October 17, 2004 at her home after a long courageous battle with cancer.

Gertrude Kay Lienhard was born July 17, 1944 in Mitchell County, near Riceville, the daughter of Ben H. and Harriet A. (Volkart) Stevenson. She attended elementary and high school at Riceville and graduated with the class of 1962. Following graduation, Trudie moved to Rochester, MN and started working.

In August of 1964, she married Jerald Henderson in Ricveille. They had two children: Jodi and Jack. They were later divorced.

On September 18, 1978 she married Loel Lienhard in Cresco. The had three children: Billi, Amy and Andrew. In 1990, Trudie started working as a cook for the Howard-Winneshiek Community School District, retiring in May of 2003 because of ill health. She was an outdoor girl who liked sports, and wouldn't miss a ball game that her children played in. She went fishing and hunting with Loel and also enjoyed bowling.

She is survived by her husband Loel; five children: Jodi Henderson of Mission, KS, Jack Henderson of Austin, TX, Billi Johnson of Lime Springs, Amy Mauer, and Andy Lienhard, both of Rochester, MN; one sister: Elizabeth Wherry of Riceville; and two brothers: Richard of Sheffield and Ben of McIntire.

Trudie was preceded in death by her parents; one brother: William; and two sisters: Margaret Lockhart and Virginia Stevenson.

Adeline Kovarik

Funeral services for Adela "Adeline" Kovarik were held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 23 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Lourdes with Msgr. John W. Hemann officiating.

Interment was in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery in Lourdes. Pallbearers were: Don Bartels, Joe Neubauer, Tony Neubauer, Tom Spindler, Edward Ondrashek, and Leland Truka. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Adeline, 79, died Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at Gundersen Lutheran in LaCrosse, WI after suffering a massive stroke on October 13. She had been living at home with her daughter Diane.

Adela Edith Kovarik was born August 2, 1925 in Winneshiek County, near Spillville, the daughter of Frank and Barbara (Kabela) Barta. She attended parochial schools until the seventh grade. After her schooling, she returned home with her parents to help with the daily farm life and care for her polio stricken brother, Edward.

Leaving her birthplace in 1947, the family moved to town.

Prior to her marriage she was employed at various restaurants in Cresco as a cook, including Cresco Caf/ owned by Ray Jaeger, Black and White Caf/ owned and operated by Arnold and Ada Baker and South Side Caf/ owned by Schoeberl's. Adeline worked at a restaurant in Lake Mills owned by Clarence and Margaret Hruska.

On June 14, 1955 she married Leonard Kovarik at Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco by Rev. Vernon Peters. They farmed in the Lourdes area, living on the farm where Leonard was born and raised. They moved to Cresco on March 31, 1978. While living on the farm near Lourdes, Adeline continued to assist in the care of Edward, during the summer months.

Adeline was best known for her kolaches. A meticulous housekeeper, she enjoyed gardening, canning, and hosting people in her home. She enjoyed the company of her Pomeranians, Brandi and Truffles.

She was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Rosary Society and a member of the Notre Dame Altar and Rosary Society and briefly belonged to The Catholic Workman organization.

She is survived by one daughter: Diane of Cresco; one brother: Leonard of Cresco; and one sister: Margaret Hruska of Apache Junction, AZ.

Adeline was preceded in death by her husband Leonard on March 31, 2000; her parents; six brothers: Julius, Edward, Frank, Emil, August, and Daniel; and one sister: Otilia Barta.

Melvin Zimmerman

Funeral services for Melvin Zimmerman were held Tuesday, October 26 at Lime Springs with Ministers Earvey Ensz, Richard Unruh, and Raymond Ensz.

Interment was in Wayne Cemetery in rural McIntire. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Melvin, 53, died Wednesday, October 20, 2004 from a heart attack while hunting in the mountains in Washington.

Melvin Zimmerman was born December 29, 1950 in Lancaster Co., PA, the son of Edwin and Annie (Hoover) Zimmerman. He lived in Lancaster Co. until second grade, then moved to Berks Co., PA where he grew up. Melvin was very much a farm boy at heart, enjoying farm activities with parents and siblings.

On October 26, 1972 he married Mabel Sauder. They lived in Berks Co. and were members of the Old Order Mennonite Church until 1982. They were baptized into the Church of God in Christ Mennonite in November of 1983. In 1989 they moved to Howard Co. beginning the Church of God in Northeast Iowa.

Later he bought a wheat farm in Washington and lived and farmed there the last several years.

He is survived by his wife Mabel of Lime Springs; two sons: Nelson and Edwin, both of Lime Springs; four daughters: Laura Warkentin of Cartwright, MB, Canada, Erma Esau of Pincher Creek, AB, Canada, Brenda Zimmerman and Thelma Wedel, both of Lime Springs; Blake and Laurie Meighen of Lime Springs, became a special part of the family; nine grandchildren; his parents: Edwin and Annie Zimmerman of Shiloh, OH; four brothers: Ammon of Kutztown, PA, Harvey, Edwin, and Glen of Shelby, OH; five sisters: Lizzie Sauder and Martha Weaver both of Kutztown, PA, Anna Nolt, Rachel Burkholder, and Annetta Martin, all of Shiloh, OH.

Melvin was preceded in death by one sister.

Burdette Keune

Funeral services for Burdette Keune of Cresco will be held at 1:30 p.m. today, Wednesday, October 27 at the First Lutheran Church in Cresco.

Lindstrom Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Burdette, 78, died at the Cresco Care Center in Cresco.

A complete obituary will appear in next week's issue of the Times Plain Dealer.

Posted on 10/28/2004 by Gene Manning