Robert "Bob" Hartmann

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

CHARLES CITY - Robert "Bob" Hartmann, 77, of 801 5th Ave. in Charles City, passed away Friday, October 27, 2006 at his home of natural causes.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 31 at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St. in Charles City with Rev. Dennis Niezwaag officiating.

Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

Visitation is from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church. The visitation will continue Tuesday at the church, one hour prior to Bob's service.

In lieu of flowers those wishing to extend memorials or expressions of sympathy may wish to direct them to the family in the care of Bob's wife, Catherine Hartmann, 801 5th Ave., Charles City, IA 50616.

Robert F. Hartmann was born September 7, 1929, the son of Hazel (Crooks) and August Hartmann at home in rural Ionia. He attended the country brick schoolhouse and high school in Charles City. Robert was united in marriage to Catherine Springer October 23, 1949. They both worked at Salsbury Laboratories at the time. His interests included Oliver tractors, gardening, playing cards, tinkering and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his loving wife, Catherine and their five children, Sandra (Mike) Hueholt, Urbandale, Barbara (Todd) Sorensen, Littleton, CO, August (Carolyn) of Austin, TX, Linda (Mike) Leiva, San Antonio, TX and Christina (Terry) Payne, New Hampton; nine grandchildren, Stephen, Eric, Cory, Matthew, Sean, Laura, Erica and Genie; his twin sisters, Doris Welch of Wisconsin and Dorothy (Robert) Welter, Nashua, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents; a brother-in-law and one grandson.

Verlyn W. “Butch” Buls

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

CRESCO - Funeral services for Verlyn W. “Butch” Buls of Cresco, IA were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 28, 2006 at Notre Dame Parish-St. Joseph's Worship Center in Cresco with Msgr. Stanley Hayek officiating. Lector was Deb Hyke. Lester and Deb Hyke were gift bearers, and Deb Hyke was Eucharist Minister. Suzanne Ollendick was organist and Pam Daley was song leader. Pallbearers were: Tim Slifka, Randy Reinhart, Jerry Nagel, Lowell Heinemann, Charles Heinemann, Danny Buls, Dean Buls, Tim Magee, Lester Hyke, and Bill Rink. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco.

Conway Funeral Home in Cresco, IA handled the arrangements.

Verlyn, 45, died Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at the hospital in New Ulm, MN.

Verlyn Walter Buls was born October 8, 1961 in Waterloo, IA the son of Verlyn Walter and Phyllis Ann (Humbert) Buls. He was baptized in the Trinity United Methodist Church in Waverly, IA. He grew up in Bremer County, Iowa and was confirmed at St. Johns United Church of Christ rural Waverly. He graduated from Tripoli High School. During his school years, he played football and participated in music. He was a beautiful singer and loved country western music, and doing karaoke.

After graduation, he worked for a period at a restaurant in Waverly and then decided to go to Ellsworth Community College and study carpentry. He worked at All Iowa Contractors for a time, and decided he would rather be a truck driver, so he went to truck driving school. At the time he met Karen, he was driving for Wonder Bread. He moved to Cresco in 2002, became a Catholic, and married Karen Rink on May 10, 2003 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Cresco. Both Karen and Butch were active in church, but he being an over the road trucker, was not always at home.

He enjoyed bowling, talking on the phone to his family while he was on the road, and driving, but mostly family time was very important to him. He liked making people laugh and he had a very good heart. He wanted to help everyone, and offered to do almost everything for them.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; his children: Steffany and Jordan Buls of Cedar Falls, Abby Buls of Cresco, and a step daughter: Alicia Rink of Cresco; one granddaughter: Alexis Buls of Cedar Falls; his parents: Verlyn Sr. and Phyllis Buls of Tripoli; and a sister: Karin (Richard) Jones of Lime Springs.

Verlyn is preceded in death by one brother: Michael Lee Buls.

Herman C. Wedeking
 

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

NASHUA - Herman C. Wedeking, 88, of Nashua died Sunday morning, October 29, 2006 at Bartel's Lutheran Home in Waverly. Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 1, 2006 at the United Methodist church in Nashua with pastors Keith Tomlinson and Pastor Karl Schiltz officiating.

Internment will be in Pleasant Valley Cemetery rural Clarksville.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua and for one hour prior to services at the church on Wednesday. Memorials may be directed to the family. On-line condolences may be left for Herman at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com

Charlotte Rink

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

CRESCO - Graveside services for Charlotte Rink of Cresco, IA were held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 28, 2006 at New Oregon Cemetery with Pastor Michael Massa officiating.

Conway Funeral Home in Cresco, IA handled the arrangements.

Charlotte, 87, died Sunday, October 15, 2006 at the Cresco Care Center where she has been a resident since September 8, 2006.

Charlotte Ruth Lienhard was born July 26, 1919 on the family homestead in Howard County, Cresco, IA, the daughter of Gottfried and Lisette (Leuenberger) Lienhard. She was baptized and confirmed in Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco and she attended the rural New Oregon No. 3 School near her home through the eighth grade. As all young ladies of that era, they had to work hard both at home and helping others.

On September 27, 1951, she married Ervin Rink at the Immanuel Lutheran Church. They lived in Cresco all their married lives. They settled on the acreage in Vernon Springs, where Charlotte could keep an immaculate garden, a well mowed lawn and a neatly kept house. She worked hard all of her life. Although she had no children of her own, she enjoyed having her nephews and nieces come to visit.

She is survived by nieces and nephews.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers: Walter, Otto and Fred Lienhard; and three sisters: Lydia Evans, Marie Zoeckler, and Mina Batten.

JoAnn M. Johnson

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

Carlton Cummings

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

HARMONY, MN - Mass of Christian Burial for Carlton Cummings of Harmony, MN was held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 30, 2006 at Nativity Catholic Church in Harmony, MN. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in rural Canton, MN.

Carlton, 93, died Thursday, October 26, 2006 in Rochester, MN.

Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Franklin R. Miller, Sr.

Wednesday, November 1, 2006 1:53 PM CST

LIME SPRINGS - Funeral services for Franklin R. Miller, Sr. of Leland, formerly of Lime Springs, IA were held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 28, 2006 at the Lime Springs United Methodist Church. Interment was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Lime Springs.

Franklin, 71, died Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at his home in Leland.

Lindstrom Funeral Home in Riceville, IA handled the arrangements.

Raymond Leibold

Wednesday, November 1, 2006
 

GRANGER, MN - A Mass for Christian Burial for Raymond Leibold of rural Granger, MN was held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, October 30, 2006 at St. Stephen's Oratory in Chester, IA. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco.

Raymond, 95, died Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at his home.

Lindstrom Funeral Home in Lime Springs, IA handled the arrangements.

Marian Fishbaugher

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

HARMONY, MN - Funeral services for Marian Fishbaugher were held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 29, 2006 at Greenfield Lutheran Church in Harmony, MN. Interment was in Greenfield Cemetery in Harmony, MN.

Marian, 80, died Thursday, October 26, 2006 in LaCrosse, WI.

Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

                          Posted on 11/01/2006 by Gene Manning

LaVern A. Lechtenberg
 

Thursday, November 2, 2006

 

I 

INDIANOLA - LaVern A. Lechtenberg, 53, died of pancreatic cancer Monday, October 30, 2006 at Kavanagh House in Des Moines.

Funeral Services was at 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 3 at Holy Name Church in West Union.

Burial will be at West Union Cemetery.

Visitation were from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at Iles Funeral Homes - Dunn's Chapel and from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Burnham-Wood Funeral Home in West Union where a rosary was said at 5:30 p.m.

LaVern was born in Waucoma and grew up in Fort Atkinson. He graduated from Turkey Valley High School in Jackson Junction and later earned an Associates Degree as an industrial electrician. He lived in West Union for 20 years while he worked as a Maintenance Mechanic for Land's End. He moved to Indianola in 2004 and worked for Titan Tire for two years before retiring for health reasons.

LaVern was active in Boy Scouting, serving as a leader of Troop 54 in West Union and Round Table Chairman and District Commissioner of the Wild River District. He enjoyed woodworking, NASCAR and restoring Cub Cadet Mowers.

Survivors include his wife of 18 years, Theresa White, Indianola; parents, Edwin and Lucille (Tillman) Lechtenberg of Fort Atkinson, son, Tony Lechtenberg, Arlington, TX; step daughter, Tina Franzen, Indianola; step son, Nicholas Tieskotter and step daughter, Danielle Tieskotter both of Clive; two grandchildren, Sebastian and Melanie; eight siblings and their spouses, Lorraine (Russell) Karnik and Linus (Judy) Lechtenberg all of Fort Atkinson; Lyle (Sandy) Lechtenberg, Hokah, MN, Linda (Dean) Kofoot, Fort Atkinson, Joyce (Craig) Numedahl, Urbandale, Jane (David) Brincks, Ossian, Leroy (Kris) Lechtenberg, Delmar, and Judy (Ron) Reynolds, Fredericksburg, VA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jeffery Dean Ehler
 

Thursday, November 2, 2006

T

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NEW BOSTON, TX - Jeffery Dean Ehler, 40, Beebe, Arkansas, died suddenly Thursday, October 26, 2006 in a Searcy, AR hospital.

Funeral services were held Sunday, October 29 at Bates Rolf Funeral Home Chapel in New Boston, with Dr. Ken Cox officiating.

Burial was in Read Hill Cemetery under the direction of Bates Rolf Funeral Home.

Jeffery Dean Ehler was born July 31, 1966 in Waukon, IA. Prior to graduation from High School, Jeffery enlisted in the Air Force in December 1984 under the delayed enlistment program and departed for basic training in August 1985. He attained the rank of Master Sergeant. He flew six different mission design series aircraft and accumulated over 6,000 flying hours during his career. Jeffery served in Iraq and Afghanistan. He received numerous awards and decorations for meritorious service. Jeffery retired in June 2005 from the Air Force after serving 20 years. He was employed by C.A.E. as a loadmaster instructor. Jeffery enjoyed boating and being with family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Carole Torian Ehler and one son, Zachery Ehler, both of Beebe, AR; his mother and stepfather, Carol and Pat Byrnes, Waterloo; his mother-in-law, Maxine Torian, New Boston, TX; one brother, Robert (Amalia) Ehler, East Liverspool, OH; three sisters, Debbie (Gary) Sproule, Mesa, AZ, Barbara (Bill) Martini, Eyota, MN, Diane Shileny (Dennis Kuehn), Lawler; nieces and nephews, Monika and Derrick Sproule, Teresa, K-Lee, Billy Martini, Nicole, Vanessa and Joey Shileny, Robbie and Ryan Ehler.

Memorials may be made to the charity of the person's choice.

Merle L. “Rusty” Peters

Thursday, November 2, 2006

 

MARION - Merle L. “Rusty” Peters, 74, of Marion, formerly of Springfield, IL died Tuesday, October 31, 2006, at Village Ridge in Marion, from complications of diabetes.

Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 3, 2006, at St. Matthew's Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids.

The family will greet friends one hour prior to mass at the church on Friday. Private family committal will be at Linwood Cemetery Mausoleum in Cedar Rapids. Arrangements were made by Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Marion. Please sign the online guest book for Rusty at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

Rusty was born the son of Fred and Regina Seery Peters on July 22, 1932, at New Hampton. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Rusty was an area manager for Getty Oil for many years, which was later known as Texaco.

Survivors include a daughter, Lynn Peters of Marion; a son, David Peters of Richardson, Texas; two sisters, Phyllis Peters Look of Royal Oak, Michigan and Joyce Peters of Hudson.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Marlys B. Rewoldt Schwandt
 

Thursday, November 2, 2006

IOWA FALLS - Marlys B. Rewoldt Schwandt, 58, of Iowa Falls, Iowa, passed away Sunday, October 29, 2006, at her daughter's home.

A Mass of Christian Burial was 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 2 at St. Mark's Catholic Church, Iowa Falls.

Burial was at the Alden Township Cemetery, Alden, Iowa. The Linn's Funeral Homes Iowa Falls Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Visitation was from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Linn's Funeral Home, Iowa Falls, with an 8:00 p.m. Scripture Service.

Marlys Bernice Cutsforth was born March 3, 1948, at New Hampton, Iowa, the daughter of Merlin Edwin and Bernice Thelma [Throndson] Cutsforth. She attended the Turkey Valley Community Schools. She was a member of the Saint Mark's Catholic Church, Iowa Falls. Marlys had been employed at Wal Mart, Iowa Falls.

Survivors include her children, Brian Rewoldt and fiancé Shannan, Iowa Falls, Bruce Rewoldt and wife Jill, Eldora, Brenda Husted and husband Joe, Iowa Falls, Brad Rewoldt and wife Megan, Eldora; sixteen grandchildren; her mother, Bernice Cutsforth, Lawler; and two brothers, Ben Cutsforth and wife Laurie, Lawler and Len Cutsforth and wife Sue, Lawler.

Preceding her in death was her father, Merlin Cutsforth; and one sister, Carole Cutsforth.

Clement “Clem” George Weiss

Thursday, November 2, 2006

MASON CITY - Clement “Clem” George Weiss, 90, of 2004 Hunters Ridge Drive, died Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at Mason City, following a lengthy illness.

A Funeral Mass was held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 28 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 302 Fifth St., SE, Mason City, with the Rev. Harry H. Koelker officiating.

Burial took place in Elmwood - St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

Clem Weiss was the father of Linda Kennedy of New Hampton, the father-in-law of Michael Kennedy, the grandfather of Cara Kennedy-Ode (Jackson), Urbandale, IA and the great- grandfather of their three children Michael, William, and Jack.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Marie Weiss, Mason City and eight other children and their families.

Memorials will be given to Newman Catholic Schools and St. Joseph's Church in Mason City.

Lorna C. Potratz

Thursday, November 2, 2006

CHARLES CITY - Lorna C. Potratz, 92, of Charles City, died Tuesday, October 31, 2006, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City. Reverend Carl Ries, Pastor, will celebrate the Mass.

Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens.

The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Lorna Celia Cooney Potratz was born July 26, 1914, the daughter of Adam and Celia (Freidman) Roethler at Ionia. She received her education from the Ionia and New Hampton Community Schools. On May 5, 1941 she was united in marriage to Leslie Cooney at New Hampton. Leslie died on July 25, 1951. Lorna married Donald Potratz on January 30, 1965 in Nebraska. Lorna was a homemaker until after the death of Leslie when she was employed at J.C. Penny and the United Telephone Company. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City. Her interests included sewing, making quilts, playing cards, gardening, and spending time with friends and family.

Survivors include her husband, Donald Potratz, Charles City; two children, Willa (Harvey) Brasel, New Hampton and Roger (Ruth) Cooney, Maple Grove, MN; nine grandchildren, Lora (Trace) Dungey, Kevin Tenge, Lisa (Kevin) Flick, Rochelle (Joe) Giuliani, Ronda (Matt) Stelljes, Robert Cooney, Karen (Jerry) Wilkenson, Suzanne (Bill) Tretanier, Rick Cooney; 13 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death was her parents; husband, Leslie Cooney; a son, Gordon Cooney; a grandson, Jimmy Cooney; and one brother, Oscar Roethler.

                           Posted on 11/02/2006 by Gene Manning

Ruth Audrey (Rowcliffe) Cannon

Tuesday, November 7, 2006

 

ELMA - Ruth Audrey (Rowcliffe) Cannon, 71, of Elma, died Thursday, November 2, 2006, surrounded by her family at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton. She battled cancer for 13 years with dignity, grace, and courage.

Funeral services were 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 6 at St. Paul's Maple Leaf Lutheran Church, rural Elma with Reverend Dan Christensen officiating. Norma Groth was the organist and Maria Popken was the pianist and both accompanied those in attendance singing “My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less,” “Softly and Tenderly,” and “On Eagles Wings.”

Burial was in the church cemetery with Jack Whitinger, Robert Pietan, Kurt Grover, Rick Baethke, Vern Trachta, Bruce Nilges, Wes Rowcliffe, and John Wills serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers will be Heather Christensen, Dave Christensen, Stephanie Cannon, Jonathan Havlik, Andrew Havlik, Shari Cannon, Katherine Ollman, Sarah Ollman, and special great grandchildren Kalvin and Tylar Christensen.

Friends called from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home in Elma and an hour prior to services at the church.

Ruth Audrey (Rowcliffe) Cannon was born January 8, 1935 in Cerro Gordo County at home, the daughter of Willis and Elsa (Neubauer) Rowcliffe. She graduated from Rock Falls High School in 1953. On September 6, 1953, Ruth Audrey Rowcliffe was united in marriage to Melvin Dean Cannon at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Mason City. This couple was blessed with four children Susan, Keith, Barbara and Steve. They began their married life in Nebraska working for a rancher. After a year, they returned to Nora Springs and she worked as a telephone operator. In 1960 they moved to a farm near Elma. The couple farmed together for many years. Ruth later worked at Sara Lee in New Hampton.

Ruth was an active member of St. Paul's Maple Leaf Lutheran Church of Elma. She enjoyed spending time with her family, camping, bluegrass music and her pets. Her favorite activities included attending her grandchildren's sporting and music events and visiting with her friends and relatives.

Survivors include her daughter, Susan Ollman, Mason City, son Keith (Marcia) Cannon, Elma, and daughter Barbara (Merle) Havlik, Elma. Also surviving are two sisters, Bonnie Willemsen, Mason City, and Lola (Roy) Duff, LaCrescent, MN and one sister-in-law, Eythel Rowcliffe, Osage; seven grandchildren, Heather (Dave) Christensen, Stephanie Cannon, Jonathan Havlik, Andrew Havlik, Shari Cannon, Katherine Ollman, and Sarah Ollman; and two great grandchildren Kalvin and Tylar Christensen.

Preceded in death by her parents, husband Melvin, youngest son Steve, sister Harriett Ostermeier, brother Walter Rowcliffe, son-in-law Kelly Ollman and three brothers-in-law, Earl Ostermeier, Marv Willemsen, and Roy Bitterman.

Lee Shannon

Tuesday, November 7, 2006

 

ELMA - Lee Shannon, 79, of Elma, died Thursday, November 2, 2006 at the Colonial Manor in Elma. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 7 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Reverend Ray Atwood celebrating the Mass. Theresa Burke will be the organist and will accompany the Immaculate Conception Choir and the soloist Kathleen Thiele. Jim Chihak will be the lector for the service and presenting the offertory gifts will be granddaughters, Stephanie Haar, Rebecca Shannon, Jade Gaffney, Rachel Gaffney, and Dayna Doucette. Lee's family will place the pall and Linus Lentz will be a Eucharistic minister.

Burial with military honors will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Elma with Ken Friedhoff, Brian Roske, Justin Roske, Adam Roske, Benjamin Haar, Casey Shannon, and Wyatt Whisenhunt serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers will be Dave Fangman, Harold Thiele, Mark Grinhaug, Dick Wright, and Roger Weiland.

Military Honors will be provided by the Elma American Legion John Frahm Post 597 and the Alta Vista VFW Paul Johann Post 4069.

Friends may call from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home in Elma where there will be a 4:00 p.m. Rosary and 6:00 p.m. Parish Scripture Service. Visitation will also be an hour prior to services at the Funeral Home.

Lee Patrick Shannon was born March 10, 1927 on a farm east of Elma, IA, the son of George and Clara (Elgas) Shannon. He received his education at the Immaculate Conception Academy. On December 10, 1944, Lee enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was a Seaman Second Class and was a cook stationed in Guam during WWII. He was honorably discharged on July 28, 1946. Following his discharge, Lee returned to Elma and was united in marriage to Marion Chihak at the Our Lady of Lourdes Church on November 19, 1946. The couple resided in Elma all of their married life. Throughout the years, Lee worked as a substitute mail carrier for his dad, worked at the family business, the Shannon Quarry, drove semi from Moline, IL to Canada, was a heavy equipment operator during the construction of I-80, served as the Town Marshall in Elma, owned and operated Shannon's Service, managed the Blue Bird Tavern, and was a 25 year member of the Elma Fire Department, serving for many years as the Fire Chief. In April of 2006 he entered the Colonial Manor where he enjoyed singing and playing Bingo.

Lee enjoyed playing cards, especially Euchre and 31, professional wrestling, going on Wednesday rides around the countryside with his wife and he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Elma, Elma American Legion John Frahm Post 597 and Alta Vista VFW Paul Johann Post 4069.

Survivors include a son Mark (Deborah) Shannon, Charles City; three daughters, Kaye Shannon, Elma, Susan Shannon (Jerry) Haar, Elma, and Barbara (David) Doucette, New Hampton; 12 grandchildren; five step grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; two sisters, Jean Shannon, New Hampton, and Marge (Gerald) Gansen, Elma.

Agnes P. (Haus) Mishak
 

Tuesday, November 7, 2006

NEW HAMPTON - Agnes P. (Haus) Mishak, age 91 of New Hampton, died Friday November 3, 2006, at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 10, at Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph Center with Msgr. Carl Schmitt officiating. The pall will be placed on the casket by her children. Agnes' special card club friends will follow the family. Scriptures will be read by Dan Haus and Brian Bezoenik. The offertory gifts will be presented by Sherry Webb, Jackie Van Ginkel, Christine Mishak and Stephanie Mishak.

Burial will be in Calvary cemetery with Craig Mishak, Jason Mishak, Mike Mishak, Dominic Frese, Colin Frese and John Bezoenik, serving as pallbearers.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 9, 2006 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in New Hampton with a 4:00 p.m. Rosary, 7:00 p.m. Scripture Service and 7:30 p.m. Video Memorial Tribute. Visitation will continue for one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. Online condolences for Agnes may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com

Agnes P. (Haus) Mishak was born March 1, 1915, the daughter of Leonard and Margaret (Lentz) Haus. She attended grade school at St. Mary's in North Washington and graduated from North Washington in 1931. On November 20, 1933 she was united in marriage to Lando John Mishak in North Washington at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. To this union six children were born. Agnes enjoyed being a housewife until moving to Algona where she worked as a bookkeeper for Culligan and then Schultz Brothers. The couple moved to New Hampton in 1969 where Lando began working for Walt Hugeback. Agnes began working in the Admissions Office at St. Joseph 's Hospital and after retiring at the age of 72, became the Volunteer Coordinator. She also assisted at Hugeback Funeral home. At the young age of 80 years she learned how to play bridge and continued to do so weekly. Waste Not, Want Not was the mantra of her life. She was frugal but had a generous spirit and loved sharing her life with family and friends.

Agnes enjoyed playing cards and was an avid fan of Tiger Woods. She was an active member of Holy Family Parish, the church choir and the American Legion Auxiliary. She was very faithful in sending birthday cards to family and friends and always enjoyed sharing a good joke. Most of all, she loved the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include three sons, Wayne (Jane) Mishak, Redlands, CA, Frank (Marlys) Mishak, Clear Lake and Len Mishak, Dallas , TX ; two daughters, Karen (Brian) Bezoenik, Milwaukee, WI and Mary (Chub) Frese, New Hampton; 15 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed but has left everyone with many precious memories and gifts of life.

Preceded in death by her husband Lando on February 4, 1992; one son, Joseph G. Mishak, January 26, 2002; five brothers, Tony, Leo, Ed, Matt and Greg Haus; four sisters, Rose (John) Schreder, Lena (John) Pickar, Anna (Henry) Papenheim and Mary (Al) Weber; two grandchildren, Blaine Mishak, October 29, 1992 and Marilyn Mishak September 2, 1994.

Ronald John Kerkhoff

Tuesday, November 7, 2006

ROGERS, ARK - Ronald John Kerkhoff, age 88 of Rogers, Arkansas, died Monday, October 30, 2006, at his home.

Funeral services were 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 4, at Grace United Methodist Church in Rogers, Arkansas with Rev. Mark Ashcroft officiating.

Visitation was Friday, November 3, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Stockdale Funeral Services in Rogers, Arkansas.

If so desired, memorials may be sent to: “The Building Fund” at Grace United Methodist Church, 1801 South Dixieland, Rogers, Arkansas 72756.

Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 7, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg. Military rites will be conducted by the Fredericksburg Amvets.

Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home, Fredericksburg is in charge of local arrangements. 563-237-6212 Online condolences for Ronald may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com .

Marcella Swestka

Tuesday, November 7, 2006

PROTIVIN - Marcella Swestka, age 87 of Protivin, died Saturday November 4, 2006, at the Cresco Care Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 8 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin with Rev. David Beckman officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Protivin where there will be a 4:00 p.m. Rosary and a 6:00 p.m. Scripture Service. Further visitation will continue 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. 563-569-8800.

                          Posted on 11/07/2006 by Gene Manning

Albert G. Franzen
 

Monday, November 13, 2006

ST. LUCAS - Albert G. Franzen, 80, St. Lucas, died Thursday, November 9, 2006 at his home of cancer.

A Funeral Mass was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 13 at St. Luke's Catholic Church, St. Lucas, with Rev. Marvin Salz as celebrant. Music was provided by pianist Jeanette Dietzenbach and vocalist Daryl Kuehner.

Interment was in St. Luke's Cemetery with Jim Franzen, Bob Franzen, Mike Roach, Steve Kuboushek, Tom Pippert and Daryl Kuehner serving as casket bearers.

Visitation was Sunday at St. Luke's Chapel, with a 4:00 p.m. Rosary Society and American Legion Rosary and 7:00 p.m. Scripture Service, with a vocal selection, “Thanks Again”.

Burnham-Wood Funeral Home, West Union, was in charge of arrangements.

Albert G. Franzen was born April 6, 1926 near St. Lucas, the son of Mike and Clara (Schmitt) Franzen. He attended St. Luke's Catholic School. In 1950 he joined the US Army and served as Sergeant First Class in the Korean Conflict. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

On August 20, 1952 Al married Irene Croatt at St. Luke's Catholic Church and they farmed near Waucoma. Al enjoyed farming the land with his family and working with livestock. Old cars held a special meaning for him. Al especially enjoyed his 1948 Packard and 1941 Chrysler New Yorker.

In December 1993, Al and Irene retired from farming and moved into their home in St. Lucas. He continued to enjoy helping on the farm - whether it was driving the tractor or going to town for parts. Al served on the St. Luke's Church Board and the Cemetery Board for many years. He was a member of the St. Lucas American Legion and St. Luke's Rosary Society. Al especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, golfing, playing cards with family and friends and woodworking. Many people will enjoy the fine craftsmanship of Al's woodworkings skills.

Surviving are his wife, Irene; four daughters, Judy (Mike) Roach, West Union, Janice (Steve) Kuboushek, Spillville, Diane (Tom) Pippert, Reinbeck, Bonnie (Daryl) Kuehner, Lawler; two sons, James (Laura) Franzen and Robert (Julie) Franzen, Waucoma; 15 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; five sisters, Marcella Blong, St. Lucas, Anna Laura Leichtman, Mason City, Edna Fay, Sumner, Clarene Humpal, Brentwood, TN, Lorrena Bohr, Waucoma; four brothers, LaVerne (Rosemary) Franzen, St. Lucas, Leo (Helen) Franzen, West Union, Florian (Pat) Franzen and Duane Franzen, Hawkeye.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two nephews, Alan Franzen and Robert Leichtman; one niece, Kathy Fay; three brothers-in-law, Mark Bohr, Tony Leichtman and Leonard Blong.

Joan T. Larson

Monday, November 13, 2006 3:07 PM CST

SEDONA, AZ - Joan T. Larson, 79, of Sedona, Arizona, formerly of Alta Vista, IA, died October 6, 2006 in Sedona, AZ.

A Memorial Mass will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 18 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Reverend Ray Atwood celebrating the Mass.

Inurnment will be in the St. Mary's Cemetery in New Hampton.

Friends may call an hour prior to services at the church.

Joan Theresa Larson was born November 15, 1926 at Alta Vista, IA, the daughter of Joseph and Rose (Stalzer) Frantzen. She attended St. William Catholic School in Alta Vista, graduating in 1944. Joan was united in marriage on November 17, 1951 to Robert Brenner. He passed away on February 23, 1959. In 1963, Joan received a BA in education, and in 1967 a MA in Education from Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ. Joan was united in marriage to Gale Larson on August 17, 1970 and the couple resided in Arizona. From 1963 until 1988, Joan was employed as an Elementary Teacher in the Roosevelt School District in Phoenix, AZ. In 1988, she and Gale moved to the Scenic Red Rock area of Sedona, AZ. Gale passed away on January 4, 2003. Joan was currently residing in the Village of Oak Creek in Sedona, AZ.

Survivors include three sisters, Olivia Ralph, Chicago, IL, Alfrieda Tozzi, Chicago, IL, and Helen (Wally) Fair, Elma; many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents, husbands Robert Brenner and Gale Larson; three brothers, John Frantzen, Joseph Frantzen, Jr., and Leonard Frantzen; three sisters, Marie Hilsman, Dorothy Reynolds, and Bernice Maruska.

Marjorie E. Schacht

Monday, November 13, 2006

CEDAR RAPIDS - Memorial services for Marjorie E. Schacht of Cedar Rapids, IA will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 9, 2006 at First Lutheran Church with Rev. Dr. Kay Slocum officiating. Inurnment will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Lime Springs, IA.

Cedar Memorial Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids, IA is handling the arrangements.

Marjorie, 66, died Saturday, November 4, 2006 at St. Lukes Hospital after a brief illness.

Marjorie was born on Dec. 21, 1939 in Howard County, the daughter of Carl and Edna (Riekmann) Schacht. She was a self-employed, in-home respite caregiver for several years. Marjorie was a member of First Lutheran Church and was a Stephen Minister. She was on the executive board for Habitat For Humanity and enjoyed square dancing.

Survivors include her brother: Everett Schacht and his wife, Carmen, of Cresco. She is also survived by a nephew, several cousins and her significant other, Frederick Rottmiller of Cedar Rapids.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Cletus Joseph Meyer

Monday, November 13, 2006

St. Lucas - Cletus Joseph Meyer, age 82 of St. Lucas died Sunday, November 12, 2006 at the New Hampton Care Center. Funeral arrangements are pending at Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in New Hampton. 641-394-4334

Charles E. Dietz

Monday, November 13, 2006

IONIA - Charles E. Dietz, 91, of Ionia, Iowa, died Tuesday afternoon, November 7, 2006 at the New Hampton Care Center in New Hampton, Iowa.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 13, at St. John's Lutheran Church of Western Douglas, rural Plainfield, with Pastor Kim Thacker officiating. Janice Fritcher will be the organist and lead the congregation in the singing of “Old Rugged Cross”, “How Great Thou Art” and “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”. Kathy Scharnhorst will sing “In The Garden”.

Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery at Nashua with Brent Hennings, Brian Hennings, Darin Dietz, Matthew Dietz, Phil Fuhr and Garrett Rettig serving as casket bearers. Charlie's granddaughters, Vickie Hennings, Dana Fuhr, Denise Rettig and Patricia Dietz will be honorary casket bearers.

Visitation will be Sunday from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral home in Nashua and one hour prior to services at the church on Monday. Memorials may be directed to St. John's Lutheran Church of Western Douglas, 1760 130th Street, Plainfield, IA 50666. On-line condolences may be left for Charlie at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com

Charles E. Dietz was born January 29, 1915 in Douglas Township in Bremer County, Iowa, the son of George M. and Edith L. (Masten) Dietz. He attended Douglas #2 country school through the 8th grade and then helped his parents on the home farm. In 1937, he purchased and moved to his farm 2 1/2 miles east of the home place.

Charlie was united in marriage to Sadie Ann Klimes on November 18, 1942 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Waterloo and they made their home on the farm until Sadie's death on May 10, 1992. He continued to live on the farm until moving to the Homestead Co-op in New Hampton in January of 2000.

Charlie was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church of Western Douglas where he enjoyed playing dart ball. He was an avid card player and enjoyed training his many dogs to do tricks. He also enjoyed watching softball games and fishing with his grandchildren. Charlie will be remembered for his heart of gold, pleasant smile and friendly personality. He was a great role model for everyone.

Survivors include his daughter, Barbara (Donald) Hennings, Frisco, TX; two sons, Charles (Twila) Dietz, Nashua and Ray (Mary) Dietz, Ionia; eight grandchildren, Brian, Brent and Vickie Hennings; Darin Dietz and Dana Dietz-Fuhr; Matthew Dietz, Denise Rettig and Patricia Dietz; seven great-grandchildren, Ellen, Dean, Clair, Nicholas and Andrew Hennings, Kylie and Isabella Dietz; two sisters, Edith Vohsman and Mildred Caswell both of Nashua; one brother-in-law, Lumir (Anna) Klimes, Ely.

Preceded in death by his wife, Sadie; his parents; three brothers, Alvin, George, Jr. and Clarence; four sisters, Emma Dietz, Bessie Runyan, Martha Wagner and Effie Conklin.

                             Posted on 11/13/2006 by Gene Manning

Brian P. Burke

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

 

LIME SPRINGS - A Mass of Christian Burial for Brian P. Burke of rural Lime Springs was held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 13, 2006 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Rev. Ray Atwood officiating. Pallbearers were: Paul Winkels, Andy Worple, Kyle Finnell, Aaron Burke, Kevin O'Brien, Scott O'Brien, Chuck Larson, and Jeremiah Larson. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Elma.

Friends were to call from 3 to 8 p.m. Sunday, November 12 at Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home in Elma where there was a 4 p.m. Rosary and 6:30 p.m. Parish Scripture Service. Visitation was also held from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Monday, November 13 at the funeral home.

Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home in Elma, IA handled the arrangements.

Brian, 16, died Tuesday, November 7, 2006 near his home.

Brian Paul Burke was born February 17, 1990 at New Hampton, the son of Joseph and Sandi (Dohlman) Burke. He was baptized at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma and confirmed at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Chester. The family lived north of Elma until 1993, when they moved to their rural Lime Springs home. He attended Riceville Community Schools and was currently a Junior at the Riceville Community High School. During the summer months and after school, Brian worked at O'Brien Construction in Elma.

He also spent much of his time caring for his nieces and nephews and was always willing to set things aside to help someone else.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed sharing these pastimes with his brothers, nephews and cousins. Brian loved muscle cars and spent time researching them on the internet and drawing pictures of them, listening to country music, and helping others. He dreamed of joining the Air Force, becoming a pilot and flying jets. He was proud of his family and Brian will always be remembered as the little “Big” brother because his brothers and sisters could always turn to him for advice and because of the concern he showed toward others especially his nieces and nephews.

He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Elma.

Brian is survived by his parents: Joe and Sandi Burke of rural Lime Springs; grandparents: John and Eleanor Burke of Elma; two brothers: Tom Burke and friend Tonya Kelly of Harmony, MN and Nick Burke and his friend Sara Richardson of Cresco, IA; two sisters: Amanda Burke and Amy Burke, both of rural Lime Springs; three nephews: Brandon Burke, Brady Burke, and Shane Burke; two nieces: Chloe Burke and Brooklyn Shelby Burke.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Floyd and JoEtta Dohlman; and a niece: Shelby Rose Burke.

Thelberta C. Norman

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

DENVER, CO - Funeral services for Thelberta C. Norman of Denver, CO were held on Friday, November 10, 2006 at Zion United Methodist Church in rural Cresco with Rev. Mike Carey officiating. Interment was in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Thelberta, 86, died Sunday, October 22, 2006 at the Porter Hospice in Centennial, CO.

Thelberta Claire Bigalk was born September 26, 1920 in Albion Township, the daughter of Charles and Clara (Mandelko) Bigalk. She attended Lincoln rural school and graduated from Cresco High School in 1937, earning her teaching certificate. Too young for it to be issued, she enrolled in post-graduate business courses and worked in Cresco. She taught rural school for three years, then left to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder. With WWII in progress, she moved to Denver after summer school, worked as a receptionist, and attended night courses on aircraft maintenance. When the course was completed she was assigned to the Air Force base in Casper, WY. It closed two years later and she was transferred to San Bernardino, CA until the end of the war.

After spending time with family in Iowa, she began working at the Mayo Clinic and remained there almost 10 years. She had always enjoyed traveling, spending her vacations touring the United States and much of Canada, so she left her job to make a six and one half month around-the-world trip and arranged to spend the Christmas holidays with her sister, Shirley, who was with the American Embassy in New Delhi, India. Arriving home in late spring, she again returned to the University of Colorado, working at Altman's, and later becoming manager of their branch store near the campus.

On November 26, 1958, she married William T. Norman in Denver, CO and has remained a resident there since that time.

As a homemaker, she especially enjoyed entertaining family and friends, various hobbies, and for many years was an active member of her church and neighborhood.

Thelberta is survived by her daughter and son-in-law: Anne and Robert Kidd of Parker, CO; and three sisters: Beryl Lahr of Compton, CA, Carol Downey of Rogers, AR, and Shirley Davis of Cresco.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William on March 2, 1998; her parents; and three brothers; Clinton, Arvid, and Roger Bigalk.

Emmett Borseth

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

CRESCO - Funeral services for Emmett Borseth of Cresco, IA will be held at 11:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, November 15, 2006 at the First Lutheran Church in Cresco. Interment will be in New Oregon Cemetery in rural Cresco, IA.

Friends may call at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday evening, November 14, and one hour prior to services at the church.

Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco, IA is handling the arrangements.

Emmett, 88, died Sunday, November 12, 2006 at the Regional Health Services of Howard County.

Emmett Borseth was born May 23, 1918 in Cresco, IA the son of Emil and Annie (Benson) Borseth. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church.

On February 24, 1943 he married Lucille Ott. Emmett worked at the Iowa Ordnance Plant in Burlington, IA from 1943 through 1945. He then went to work for Hawkeye Tri-County R.E.C. in Cresco, for over 36 years.

Emmett enjoyed camping, fishing, bowling, and hunting. He also enjoyed H.A.M. radio and watching baseball games.

He is survived by his wife Lucille of Cresco; sister: Irene (Danny) Slifka of Cresco; and several nephews, nieces, cousins, sisters-in-law, and brothers-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Elmer, Marvin, Melvin; and two sisters: Alice and Agnes.

                                    Posted on 11/15/2006 by Gene Manning

Major Robert Gerald Mende

Friday, November 17, 2006

NEW HAMPTON - Major Robert Gerald Mende, 90, died at the New Hampton Care Center on November 13, 2006 after a short illness.

There will be no local services.

Major Mende was born August 11, 1916 in Flint, MI, son of Harold Walter Mende and Clothilde Schwartz Mende. After enlisting in the Army, he served as an Army Air Corps flight instructor during World War II. He retired from the Air Force in 1961 and was employed by AC Electronics in Milwaukee for several years before retiring to Arkansas.

Survivors include daughters, Cathy Mende Halverson (Greg), New Hampton and Mary Mende Sharratt Smart (Gordon), Des Moines; son, John Robert Mende (Marsha), Silvis, IL; grandchildren, Laura, Daniel and Brian Halverson, Christopher and Stefan Mende, Lee Sharratt and Stephanie Sharratt Horak; great-grandchildren, Jenneessa and Lainey Sharratt, and Garrett and Eleanor Horak.

Preceded in death by his first wife, Laura Gant Mende, an infant son, Robert G. Mende, Jr., his second wife, Elizabeth Thompson Mende, sister, Irene Cavanaugh and brother, George Mende.

Philip J. Rink

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

CRESCO - A Mass of Christian Burial for Philip J. Rink of Cresco was held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 18, 2006 at Notre Dame Parish-St. Joseph Worship Center in Cresco with Rev. Richard J. Ament officiating.

Dave Rink was reader, gift bearers were: Karen and Abby Buls and Alicia Rink, Eucharist Minister was Karen Buls. Organist was Suzanne Ollendick and Pam Daley was the song leader. Honorary pallbearers were: Paul Seifried, Mel Henkes, Don Shea, Dick Zak, George Schumacher, and Russell Fitzgerald. Pallbearers were: Dave Rink, Richard Ollendieck, Jeff Rink, Dana Shea, Dave Reinhart, and Corey Weidow. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco with military rites performed by the American Legion Post #135 and V.F.W. Post 4561.

Conway Funeral Home in Cresco, IA handled the arrangements.

Philip J. Rink, 81, of Cresco died Thursday, November 16, 2006 at the Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco of an apparent heart attack.

Philip Joseph Rink was born August 8, 1925 in Stewartville, MN, the son of Henry Alfred and Norah Rose (Ware) Rink. He attended high school until the 10th grade when due to his father's illness, had to go help on the family farm. In 1946 he joined the Army and in 1947 was honorably discharged when he had to return home to assist on the family farm. Philip worked at Rath Packing in Waterloo and then Wapsie Produce in Decorah, where he spent 20 years.

On August 16, 1965, he married Monica Havlik at Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. To this union two children were born.

He enjoyed horses, attending horse sales, playing Bingo, and traveling. He especially enjoyed spending time with his granddaughters; they were the “sunrise and sunshine” of his life. He was a member of the American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and the Howard County Farm Bureau.

Philip is survived by his wife Monica; his son: Bill; his daughter: Karen Buls, all of Cresco; his grandchildren: Abby Buls and Alicia Rink; and a brother: Robert (JoAnn) Rink of Waterloo, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and son-in-law: Verlyn “Butch” Buls.

Catherine Reicks

Wednesday, November 22, 2006 11:27 AM CST

CRESCO - Funeral services for Catherine Reicks of Cresco, IA were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 16, 2006 at Notre Dame Parish, St. Joseph's Worship Center in Cresco with Rev. Richard J. Ament officiating. Organist was Marilyn Novak, cantor was Joe Wacha, lector was Lisa Johnson, gift bearers were Timothy and Carla Richert, and Eucharistic Minister was Marilyn Ott. Pallbearers were: Wayne Riniker, Rick Reicks, Dale Lickteig, Dean Reicks, Robert Reicks, and Ron Hyberger. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco.

Conway Funeral Home in Cresco, IA handled the arrangements.

Catherine, 75, died Monday, November 13, 2006 at Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco.

Catherine Reicks was born March 1, 1931 in Winneshiek County, east of Cresco, the daughter of John Christian and Frances Catherine (Schemmel) Riniker. She attended elementary school at St. Joseph and graduated from Cresco High School. She then continued her education at Iowa State Teachers College and became a teacher. Catherine taught school for a while and then moved to Rochester and worked at a printing place.

On February 15, 1958, she married Cleo Reicks at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Cresco. They made their home on the farm north of Cresco, until Cleo's death in 1999. Catherine moved to town and while living in town she sold Watkins Products.

She was a lifetime member of St. Joseph's Church, and the Altar and Rosary Society.

She enjoyed playing Bingo, going to the boat, watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, gardening, bird watching, and her cat “Kitty”. Mostly, Catherine enjoyed her family, especially her granddaughter Whitney.

Catherine is survived by her children: Judy (Stephen) Bohr of Cresco, Carla (Timothy) Richert of New Hope, MN, John of Cresco, Joe of Iowa City, and Doug of Cresco; her grandchildren: Whitney Bohr, Ann Retterath, Lisa Johnson, Brian Bohr, and Michelle Kuhn; great-grandchildren: Collin, Tyler and Michael Rettrath, Hailey and Carter Johnson, Dylin Kuhn and Olivia Bohr; and one brother: Paul Riniker of Cresco.

She was preceded in death by her husband Cleo; her parents; an infant son: John; and three brothers: Cletus, Lawrence, and Giles Riniker.

                                      Posted on 11/22/2006 by Gene Manning

Joe McAvoy
 

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

ALTA VISTA - Joe McAvoy, 75, of Alta Vista, died Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at his home.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, November 25 at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Alta Vista with Reverend Ray Atwood celebrating the Mass. Jane Karels was the organist and accompanied the St. Bernard Church Choir and those in attendance singing “On Eagles Wings,” “Amazing Grace,” “Let There Be Peace On Earth,” “Fill My Cup Lord,” & ”O Loving God.” The lector for the service was Lois McAvoy and Miranda White and Becky Mahoney presented the offertory gifts. The eucharistic minister was Sue Mahoney and the pall was placed by Joe's wife and children. Mass servers were Levi and Mandi McAvoy.

Burial with Military Honors was in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Alta Vista with Corey McAvoy, Kyle McAvoy, Kurt McAvoy, Chris White, Brian Mahoney, and Jim McAvoy serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers were Dale Meirick, Fred Gardner, John Loes, Ron Gebel, Dick Breitbach and Merle Halvorson.

Military Honors were accorded by the Paul Johann VFW Post 4069 of Alta Vista.

Friends called from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home in Elma where there was a 4:00 p.m. Knights of Columbus Rosary and 7:30 p.m. Parish Scripture Service. Visitation was also from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Saturday at the Funeral Home.

Joseph Francis McAvoy was born September 8, 1931, in Elma, IA, the son of James and Marguerite (Kennedy) McAvoy. He received his education at the Immaculate Conception Academy in Elma, graduating in 1949. On September 1, 1950, Joe enlisted in the United States Air Force and served during the Korean War until his honorable discharge on August 31, 1954. While he was serving in the Air Force he was on the baseball and bowling teams. Following his discharge, Joe returned to Elma and began working for Oral Phippen Trucking. On August 10, 1957, Joe was united in marriage to Mary Gebel at the St. Bernard Catholic Church in Alta Vista. The couple resided in Alta Vista ever since. In 1960 he began working at Oliver in Charles City and remained there until becoming a rural mail carrier out of the Alta Vista Post Office in 1967. Joe retired from the Postal Service in 1994. Throughout the years, Joe enjoyed golfing, fishing, playing baseball, bowling, traveling, watching the Hawkeyes and St. Louis Cardinals, and he especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events and going to dances with his wife in Spillville. Joe was a true “Irishman” and anyone that has seen him on St. Patrick's Day would surely know this to be true.

Joe was a member of the St. Bernard Catholic Church in Alta Vista, Knights of Columbus Council 4144 of Elma and a Life Member of the Paul Johann VFW Post 4069 of Alta Vista.

Survivors include his wife Mary; son Pat (Jill) McAvoy, Denver; two daughters Ann (John) White, Kansas City, MO and Sue Mahoney, Alta Vista; seven grandchildren Corey McAvoy, Kyle McAvoy, Kurt McAvoy, Miranda White, Chris White, Becky Mahoney, and Brian Mahoney; brother Jack (Lois) McAvoy, Elma, and sister Marlene Hogan, Waterloo and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death was his parents and a sister Jean Nosbish.