Darwin Christopher, 93

Published:
Tuesday, January 8, 2013

BLUFFTON - A Mass of Christian Burial for Darwin J. Christopher of Bluffton was held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013 at St. Bridget's Catholic Church in Bluffton, Iowa with Rev. Dennis Cahill officiating. Lectors were Elizabeth Feuerhelm and Sarah Christopher. Organist was Kathy Tollefsrud. Songs were "Shall We Gather at the River", "Holy, Holy, Holy", "Just as I am", "Prayer of St. Francis." Offertory giftbearers were Deirdre and Dawson Christopher. Pallbearers were Scott Tweten, Cody Christopher, Blaine Christopher, Brad Christopher, Ben Christopher, Brent Tweten, Nicholas Christopher, and Jason Hastings. Interment was held in St. Bridget's Catholic Cemetery in Bluffton with military rites by Joseph B. Lund American Legion Post #299 of Mabel, Minnesota

Visitation was held 3-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 2 at the Schluter - Balik Funeral Home in Decorah, also after 10:00 a.m. at the church on Thursday morning.

Darwin, 93, died Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012 at Wellington Place in Decorah.

Darwin Joseph Christopher was born Sept. 18, 1919, in Scranton, North Dakota, the oldest of six children of Karl and Veta (Davis) Christopher. Darwin attended Bluffton School #3 and high school in Burr Oak. Darwin worked for Winneshiek County before entering the service. He served as sergeant in the US Army Corps of Engineers in the Philippines from 1944-46.

On Feb. 12, 1941, he married Shirley Donlan at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Decorah. He again worked for the County until 1952. Darwin and Shirley lived in several Wisconsin and Illinois towns as he worked construction with Ryan and Schultz, along with his uncle and wife, Tom and Helen Davis.

In 1956, they returned to Bluffton and started Christopher Construction, now a third generation company. He built many ponds and terraces in the local area, working with his two sons: Ed and Michael. Darwin received the Roy Schultz Soil Conservation Award. He retired in 1988 and continued to help the boys out when needed.

Darwin enjoyed going to the Mississippi River to waterski and fish, canoeing, gardening, reading, flying the Cessna 150 and 172, (giving rides to all), mowing the lawns and runway, woodworking, hunting, golfing in Harmony (he had a hole in one when he was around 80 years old) playing cards with friends, going to auctions, races, sporting events and visiting with people. Above all, Darwin enjoyed giving candy to his grandchildren. He went on an Honor Flight to Washington, DC on his 91st birthday. Darwin was a member of St. Bridget's Catholic Church in Bluffton, Iowa and the Joseph B. Lund American Legion Post #299 in Mabel, Minnesota

Darwin is survived by his wife: Shirley Christopher of Bluffton; six children: D. Edward (Sharon) Christopher of Bluffton, Sharon Tweten-Henry of Bluffton, Sandy Christopher of Mabel, Minnesota, Tonya (Alan) Jolin of Phillips, Wisconsin, Jacki (Earl Lovelace) Christopher of Wabasha, Minnesota, and Micheal (DeAnn) Christopher of Bluffton/Burr Oak, Iowa; along with 16 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters: Fred (Rosetta) Christopher of Powderville, Mont., Rosemary Christopher of Cresco, Karl Jr. (Diane) Christopher of Hesper, Iowa, and Faye (Walt) Marlow of Bluffton; one sister-in-law: Victoria Christopher of Decorah.

Darwin was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers: Lawrence, Francis, Harold and Carsten Christopher; one sister in infancy; one granddaughter: Brenda Christopher and two sons-in-law: Larry Tweten and Michael Henry.

Published:
Tuesday, January 8, 2013

HESPER - Charlotte C. Corson, 88, of Hesper, Iowa died Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012. The family celebrated Charlotte's life at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 31, 2012 at the Hesper Lutheran Church in Hesper. Pallbearers were Christopher Metzler, Anthony Metzler, Rikki Selbee, Jeffrey Corson, Michael Corson, and Doug Corson.

Visitation with the family was held 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 30 at the Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel, Minnesota

Charlotte Cleone Corson was born Aug. 11, 1924, in Winneshiek County the daughter of Clarence A. and Amy Rosalia (Betts) Clink. She attended rural schools in Winneshiek County and graduated from Cresco High School in 1942. Charlotte spent her childhood in Northeast Iowa riding her horses Bill, Dan and Daisy. She also enjoyed roller skating and playing with cousins in Kendallville.

On Nov. 7, 1946, Charlotte married Ernest Merton Corson of Hesper in Great Falls, Montana. They were married during WWII and enjoyed their time living in Virginia, Nebraska, Missouri and England. After Ernest retired from the Air Force the family moved back to NE Iowa where they raised their six children on the family farm. They spent their golden years sharing their love and heritage with their precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Charlotte's baking skills learned from her mother are well-known throughout Winneshiek County especially her legendary glazed donuts.

Charlotte was a life-time member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, a member of the Hesper Lutheran Church, founding member and President of the Winneshiek County Handicap Society as well as a Girl Scout and 4-H Leader. Her activism for the disabled led to elevators and better accessibility for the handicapped in the area. In life polio had taken her legs.

Charlotte is survived by six children: Dennis (Margaret) Corson of Cedar Falls, Lynda Metzler of Richland, Missouri, Doug Corson of Hesper, Dalton Corson of Ames, Forrest (Barbara) Corson of Des Moines, and Charlene Selbee of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; her grandchildren: Carolyn (Vance), Marisa (Matt), Jeffrey (Louisa), Christopher (Nadja), Timothy (Jen), Anthony, Vickie (Jarrod), Michael (Deidre), Aeriel (Steven), Elizabeth (Manuel), Lena (Teague), Rikki and Cristine (Robert); great-grandchildren: Elena, Alyssa, Sophie, Dylan, Hayden, Madison, Tyler, Jayson, Bradyn, Connor, Jordan, Max, Jordin, Christian, Damien, Toby, Trevor, and Aidan; one brother: Sterling (Jhan) Clink of Story City, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her mother and father; her older sister: Eleanor Kacher; younger brother: Clarence A. Clink Jr.; and son-in-law: David Metzler.

Charlotte Lepa, 86

Published:
Tuesday, January 8, 2013

CRESCO - Funeral services for Charlotte Lepa of Cresco were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 4, 2013 at Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco. Interment was held in Howard Center Cemetery in rural Cresco.

Visitation was held 4-6 p.m. on Thursday at the Lindstrom Funeral Home as well as one hour prior to services.

Charlotte, 86, died Monday, Dec. 31, 2012 at the Regional Health Services of Howard County in Cresco.

Charlotte Lepa was born Dec. 24, 1926, in Cresco, Iowa, the daughter of Ed and Mae (Shaeffer) Dotzler. She graduated from Cresco High School. Following high school she worked candling, for the Howard County Cleaners, construction traffic control, and the majority was spent working in Food Service for the Howard Winneshiek School District.

She entered into marriage with Lawrence Lepa, and to this union four sons were born: Wayne, Larry, Rick, and Craig. They later divorced.

She enjoyed spending time visiting with friends over a cup of coffee. Charlotte loved to spend her spare time in her flower garden, feeding birds, especially hummingbirds and finches, as well as spending time with her family.

She is survived by four sons: Wayne of Cresco, Larry (Carolyn) of Lincoln, Nebraska, Rick (Judi) of Yukon, Oklahoma, and Craig (Robin) of Cresco; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother: Gene Dotzler; one sister: Edith Lepa; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by two infant grandsons: Waylon and Benjamin; her parents; nine brothers; and four sisters.

Marcella Tlusty, 92

Published:
Tuesday, January 8, 2013

CRESCO - A Mass of Christian Burial for Marcella A. Tlusty of Cresco was held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013 at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Cresco with Father Dennis Cahill officiating. Interment was held in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco.

Visitation was held 3-7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 4 at Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home in Cresco with a scripture service held at 7 p.m. Visitation continued one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church.

Marcella, 92, died Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013 at the Cresco Care Center.

Marcella A. Tlusty was born July 19, 1920, in Howard County, the daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Lukes) Moudry.

On October 15, 1941, she married John Tlusty at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin, Iowa. They ran Johnnie's Jack Sprat grocery store on North Elm Street for several years. They were married for 63 years before John's passing in 2004.

Marcella was a wonderful cook, baker, creative shopper, enjoyed reading, and word find puzzles. She loved music especially listening to polka bands. Marcella was involved with her church, helping out with several church events. She was a compassionate and giving person who loved spending time with her grandchildren and children.

Marcella is survived by her daughter: Betty (David) Kupka of Waukon; two grandchildren: Chad Ryan of Cresco and Laura Ryan of Fort Dodge.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her parents; and a brother: Leonard Moudry.

Posted on 9 January 2013

Howard Applen, 93

Published:
Tuesday, January 15, 2013

HARMONY, MN – Funeral services for Howard C. Applen of Harmony, Minn were held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 11, 2013 at the Greenfield Lutheran Church. Interment was held in Greenfield Cemetery in Harmony.

Lindstrom Funeral Home in Harmony handled the arrangements.

Howard, 93, died peacefully Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013 at the Harmony Healthcare Center.

Howard Carl Applen was born Jan. 13, 1918 in Bradley S.D., the son of Carl and Clara (Sanden) Applen.

Joseph Zobeck, 84

Published:
Tuesday, January 15, 2013

KEOSAUQUA, IA – Funeral services for Joseph W. Zobeck of Keosauqua were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013 at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco. Interment was held in New Oregon Cemetery, in rural Cresco.

Joseph, 84, died Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013 at the Good Samaritan Society in Keosauqua.

Joseph W. Zobeck was born March 19, 1928, in Elma, Iowa, the son of Wesley and Margret (Polansky) Zobeck. He was raised and went to school in the area.

On July 28, 1960 he married Mary (Lucas) Cole in Preston, Minnesota. He worked at John Deere in Waterloo, Iowa until he retired.

He is survived by two daughters: Mavis Severson of Washburn, and Nancy Tibbets of Evansdale; several grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary; sons: Daniel Zobeck, Earl Cole, Alfred Cole, and Roger Cole; one daughter: Marlene Matthews; his parents; and two sisters: Gladys Novak and Evelyn Murray.

Marie Decker, 76

Published:
Tuesday, January 15, 2013

ELMA – Funeral services for Marie H. Decker of Elma, formerly of Lawler will be held at 11:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013 at Zion Lutheran Church, Alta Vista, Iowa.

Visitation was held 3-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 15 at the Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home in Cresco. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

Marie, 76, died Friday, Jan. 11, 2013.

Marie H. Decker was born July 28, 1936, in Fayette County, Iowa, the daughter of Harry and Myrtle (Peterson) Oakland.

On Oct. 26, 1958, Marie married Carl Decker in Austin, Minnesota. During her life, Marie worked as a phone operator in Ossian, farm wife, and a waitress in Decorah, Harmony, Charles City, and Cresco.

Marie loved listening to polka music, and dancing to it with Carl. They were known to follow around Malek's Fishermen, Barefoot Becky, Big Ben and the Brian's, and Jim Busta Band. Marie was a wonderful cook, and made enough food to "feed an army". Her bread, pie, zucchini cake, and checkerboard cake with homemade chocolate icing will be missed. Marie spent her time doing embroidery, collecting dolls, plates, and bells. She was a caring, loving, and generous person who loved visiting with family and friends.

Marie is survived by her husband, Carl of Lawler; her daughters: Lorraine (Larry) Mullen of Charles City, and children, Adam and Jessica Howland, Lynn Decker of Cresco and her children, Brandon and Bryan Sickles; brothers: Lloyd (Pat) Oakland of Castalia, Gordon (Marlys) Oakland of Ossian, and Kermit Oakland of Saratoga; sister-in-law: Ileta Oakland of Waukon; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by a son: Randy; her parents; brothers: Herman and Harold Oakland; and a niece: Lisa Hageman.

JoAnn Partelow, 81

Published:
Tuesday, January 15, 2013

TUCKERTON, New Jersey – Funeral services for JoAnn M. Partelow of Tuckerton, New Jersey, formerly of Elma, were held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, at Conway-Markham Funeral Chapel in Elma with Pastor Dan Christensen officiating. Pallbearers were Michael Murray, Kristopher Murray, Ryan Dybevik, Jeff Schwake, Darren Streich, Darwin Streich, Joel Schwake and Jody Schwake. Interment was held in Howard Cemetery in Elma.

Visitation was held 12-1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 9 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in Elma.

JoAnn, 81, died Monday, Aug. 6, 2012 at Colonial Manor in Elma.

JoAnn Marie Partelow was born Aug. 6, 1931, near Elma, the daughter of John and Anna (Beaston) Dybevik. JoAnn graduated from Elma High School in 1950.

On August 27, 1950, she married Henry Spaulding at Saude Lutheran Church near Jerico. The couple made their home in Southhampton, Pennsylvania. and to this union three children were born. Later, the couple divorced, JoAnn moved to Surf City, New Jersey and married Warren Partelow in September of 1970. JoAnn worked as a waitress at Wida's until the age of 74 when the restaurant was sold. She continued to live in New Jersey until she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and was moved back to Iowa to be close to her family.

JoAnn enjoyed reading, people, frogs, crossword puzzles, sewing, and family.

JoAnn is survived by her children: Janet Spaulding of Newnan, Georgia and Bruce (Karen) Spaulding of Rochester, Minnesota: step-daughter: Cindy (Warren) Brown of Bellmawr, New Jersey; grandchildren: Michael Murray of Dothan, Alabama, Rebecca Barden of Newnan, Georgia, Matthew (Kim) Murray of Carneys Point, New Jersey, Kristopher Murray of Jackson, Mississippi, Brittany Spaulding of Warminster, Pennsylvania, Jade Spaulding of Rochester, Minesota.; great-grandchildren: Michael and Logan Murray, Jersey Shelton and Mason Barden; her siblings: Donald (Jackie) Dybevik of Elma, Carol Schwake of Elma, Karen Streich of Charles City, and Daryl (Janice) Dybevik of Cresco; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren Partelow; her son, Scott Spaulding; her parents; and two brothers: Oliver and Gayle Dybevik.

Memorials may be directed to the Elma Public Library.

Kenny Flatland, 78

Published:
Tuesday, January 15, 2013

CRESCO – Funeral services for Kenny M. Flatland of Cresco were held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013 at the Calvary Evangelical Free Church in Spring Grove, Minnesota with Pastor David Allen officiating. Honorary pallbearers were Alan and Donald Bretisprecher, Dave and Pete DeVries, Leland Hovey, Mike Lace, Mark Jones and Larry Welch. Pallbearers were Dean Flatland, Dan, Pat and Tom Gossman, Brian and Jerry Sandeen. Interment was held in Fremont Cemetery, rural Harmony, Minnesota with military rites.

Visitation was held 4-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 8 at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco.

Kenny, 78, died Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013 at Regional Health Services of Howard County in Cresco.

Kenny M. Flatland was born Jan. 1, 1935, at Highlandville, Iowa, the son of H. Albert and Norma H. (Engen) Flatland. He graduated from Canton High School in 1953, that fall he entered the Army and was honorably discharged in 1955.

On June 1, 1958, Kenny married Wanda K. Barnhouse at the Fremont Lutheran Church, rural Harmony, Minnesota. Kenny farmed in Winneshiek County his entire life. Along with farming Kenny worked at Donaldson Co. prior to maintaining a dairy herd for 17 years, which was followed by working at Featherlite for 10 years. For Featherlite he delivered trailers throughout the United States and Canada.

He enjoyed television and for over 30 years Kenny was on a Bowling League. He was an avid book reader; especially detective stories and mysteries. He enjoyed driving a 1941 Chevy pickup restored by his son Randy. Kenny and Wanda traveled to visit family in Virginia, Texas, Colorado, Florida and to Hawaii.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Wanda of Cresco; four children: Rebecca (Bret) McCleary and children Rachel and Hannah all of Houston, Texas, Kathleen Hatfield and daughter Violet of Cresco, Randall (Annita) Flatland and children Avery, Jameson, Whitney and Eston all of Decorah, Steven (Sonya) Flatland and children Cole, Sadie, Logan and Megan all of Springville, Iowa; four sisters: Naomi Gossman of Cresco, Eldie (Alton) Peterson of Cresco, Bonnie Krogstad of Spring Grove, Minnesota, and Susie (Ed) Fontes of Cresco.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents; a brother and sister-in-law: Jesse and Margaret Flatland; and two brothers-in-law: Herbert Gossman and Mervin Krogstad.

Posted on 16 January 2013

Joseph Gansen, 79

Published:
Tuesday, January 22, 2013

ELMA – A Mass of Christian Burial for Joseph G. Gansen of Elma, Iowa was held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Elma with Father Steve Garner officiating. Interment was held in Calvary Cemetery at Elma with his nephews serving as pallbearers.

Visitation was held 4-8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 18 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in Elma with a 4:30 p.m. Rosary and a 7:30 p.m. Scriptural Wake Service. Visitation continued one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Joseph, 79, died unexpectedly on Friday, Jan. 11, 2013 at Escondido, Calif. while on vacation.

Joseph George Gansen was born July 11, 1933 in Elma, the son of Clarence and Geneva (Jacoby) Gansen. He attended Elma Country School #9. He then farmed with his dad and took over farming the family farm in 1961. On Jan. 28, 1953 he married Eleanore Ludwig at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Lourdes. Joe and Eleanore raised their five children on the farm and continued to farm to the present time.

Joe enjoyed golfing, tractor pulls, farming and he especially loved his wife and family. Joe's main joys were his kids, cows and collies.

Joe is survived by his wife Eleanore of Elma; children: Kenny (Jamie) Gansen of Elma, MaryJo (Dennis) Fitzgerald of Elma, Jayne (Joe) Jeffrey of Vista, California, Bob (Dawn) Gansen of Elma, and Richard (Annie) Gansen of Elma; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; sisters: Mary Finley of Story City, Iowa, Katherine White of Alta Vista, Norma (Ken) Kolbet of Naperville, Illinois and Jeannette (Brian) Glaser of Kansas City, Missouri; brother: Gerald (Marge) Gansen of Elma; sister-in-law: Regina Gansen of Elma; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Nicholas; brothers-in-law: Wayne Finley and Daniel White; and daughter-in-law: Debra Gansen.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Mary Richmond, 85
U.S. Air Force Nursing Corps   Korean Conflict

Published:
Tuesday, January 22, 2013

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA – A Mass of Christian Burial for Mary J. Richmond was held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 18, 2013 at the Church of the Nativity of Our Lord, St. Paul, Minnesota. Interment was held in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Visitation was held 4-8 p.m. on Thursday at Willwerscheid Funeral Home in St. Paul.

Mary, 85, died peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013 from complications of influenza.

Mary Jane Richmond was born July 8, 1927, in Elma, the daughter of John and Luella (McCabe) Beecher. She attended St. Joseph Mercy College of Nursing, University of Iowa and postgraduate surgery work at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois She was a Lieutenant in the Air Force Nursing Corps during the Korean War and Active Reserves, taught at De Paul School of Nursing and later spent 15 years at MN Mutual Life as their Occupational Health Specialist.

Mary is survived by her husband of 56 years Edmund Carleton "Carl" Richmond; five children; Bill (Vicky) Richmond of Plymouth, Minnesota, Carla (Dan) Anderson of St. Paul, Minnesota, Jane (Steve) Conlin of St. Paul, Minnesota, Paul (Alicia) Richmond of Fort Worth, Texas and John (Jodi) Richmond of Eagan, Minnesota; 13 grandchildren; siblings: Bernard (Mary) Beecher of Waterloo, Veronica (Lee) Riley and LuAnn Hutchins of Charles City; in-laws: Mary Ellen McGrath, Peggy Beecher, and Leroy Mohrfeld; and many, nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers: Edward, W. Louis and Gerald Beecher; In-laws: Gert Beecher, Gallus Wandro, Luva Mohrfeld, Merle McGrath, and Ernestine Richmond.

Merlin Andera, 84

Published:
Tuesday, January 22, 2013

WATERLOO – Funeral services for Merlin J. "Andy" Andera of Waterloo, Iowa were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 21, 2013 at St. Edward Catholic Church in Waterloo.

Visitation was held 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 20 at Hagarty-Waychoff-Grarup Funeral Service in Waterloo with a 4:00 p.m. Rosary. Visitation continued one hour prior to services at the church on Monday.

Merlin, 84, died on Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013 at his home of advanced age and cardiac disease.

Merlin J. Andera was born June 5, 1928 in Protivin, the son of Charles and Bertha (Wendl) Andera.

On Nov. 8, 1952, he married Patricia Rausch at St. John's Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson.

Andy graduated from Holy Trinity School in Protivin and then graduated from Loras College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. He was employed at Rath Packing Company for 34 years, retiring as a corporate director of quality control. He then was employed with FDL Foods until 1989. In his retirement he was a greeter with Wal Mart for 17 years.

Survivors include two sons: Mark (LuAnn) of Cedar Falls and Michael (Maureen) of Chandler, Arizona; two daughters: Mary Kay (Jeff) Hiatt of Waterloo and Maureen (Charles, Sr.) Nichols of Evansdale; six grandchildren: Katie (David) McCullough, Timothy Andera, Charles, Jr. and Kira Nichols and Lauren and Emily Andera; and a great-granddaughter: Maggie McCullough.

Andy was preceded in death by a granddaughter: Kelly Marie Andera; and a brother: Vitalis.

Memorials may be directed to Cedar Valley Hospice or St. Edward Catholic Church.

James Daly, 69

Published:
Tuesday, January 22, 2013

CRESCO – Funeral services for James "Jim" D. Daly of Cresco were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013 at the Cresco United Methodist Church in Cresco. Interment was held in Oak Lawn Cemetery in Cresco.

Visitation was held 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 21 at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco. Visitation continued one hour prior to services at the church.

Jim, 69, died Friday, Jan. 18, 2013 at home surrounded by his family.

James Dean Daly was born April 9, 1943 in Cresco, the son of Thomas and Ellen (Burgess) Daly.

On Dec. 27, 1961, he married his high school sweetheart Janice Boeke. Jim graduated from Crestwood High School in 1961. Following graduation, Jim attended the Universal Trade School in Omaha, Nebraska. He worked at A.Y. McDonald in Charles City, Iowa, and at Daly Plumbing & Heating in Cresco. Jim bought the business from Tom and Ellen Daly in 1970. He and Jan ran the business for 42 years.

Jim was a life-long member of the Cresco United Methodist Church, a member of the Cresco Fire Department for 25 years, served on the Cresco City Council for 18 years, the "Bluff Country Cruisers", the Cresco Jaycees, the Cresco Wildlife Club, Cresco "Cruise to Cresco" and the Fireman's Association.

Jim is survived by his wife Jan of Cresco; one daughter: Jill (Galynn) Mitchell of Ridgeway; one grandson: Jeremy Dunn of Ridgeway; three step-grandchildren: Nichole (Marcus) Hageman of Decorah, Travis (Kara) Mitchell of Newhall, Iowa and Ashley (Josh) Rauk of Decorah; five great-step grandchildren: Mckenzie, Liam, and Nolan Hageman of Decorah, and Mayson and Kaden Mitchell of Newhall; one sister: Mary Ellen (Dale) Turnmire of Cresco; three brothers: John of Cresco, Dave (Kay) Carmel of Indiana and Steve (Pam) of Oklahoma.

He was preceded in death by one son: Randy; his parents: Thomas and Ellen Daly; and a father and mother-in-law: Vernon and Dorthea Boeke.

Posted on 22 January 2013

Margaret Beecher, 90

Published:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013

ELMA - A Mass of Christian Burial for Margaret "Peggy" A. Beecher of Elma, Iowa was held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 28, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Father Steve Garner officiating. Interment will be held at a later date.

Visitation was held 4-8 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 27 at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in Elma with a 4:30 p.m. rosary and a 7:00 p.m. scriptural wake service. Visitation continued one hour prior to the service on Monday at the funeral home.

Margaret, 90, died on Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013 at Colonial Manor in Elma.

Margaret Ann Beecher was born July 1, 1922 in Alta Vista, Iowa, the daughter of Louis and Margaret (Ruhoff) Kobliska. She attended and graduated from Immaculate Conception School in Elma.

On Feb. 3, 1941 she married John "Ed" Edward Beecher at Immaculate Conception in Elma. They made their home on the Beecher family farm until July 19, 1994 when they moved to town after a tornado destroyed their farm. Peggy enjoyed gardening, quilting, sewing, embroidery and reading. She was a lifetime member of Immaculate Conception Church and Rosary Society.

Peggy is survived by her seven children: Sharon Gansen of Elma, Lindy (Wendy) Beecher of Eagan, Minnesota, Pat (Wayne) Arnold of Elma, Betty Jo (Jack) Hastings of Alta Vista, Mary (Bill) Roths of Cedar Falls, Marcia (Greig) Grimm of Charles City, and June (Arnie) Laures of Waukon; 23 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband: Ed; her grandson: Jason; her parents; her son-in-law: Jim Gansen; her sister: Lucile; and her brother: Leonard.

Rose Spence McMorrow, 55

Published:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013

WESTBOROUGH, MAssachusetts - A memorial service for Rose M. Spence McMorrow of Westborough, Massachusetts will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013 at Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Church in Ankeny, Iowa with Father Steven Orr officiating.

Visitation was held on Friday, Jan. 18 at the Rand-Harper-Pickering Funeral Home in Westborough. Interment was held in Old Westwood Cemetery, Westwood, Massachusetts on Saturday, Jan 19.

Rose, 55, died peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013 at home surrounded by her loving family. She is the wife of John P. McMorrow, Esq. and proud mother of Sarah M. Spence and Kelly A. Spence. Rose also enjoyed the love and presence of John's children, Peggy and Jack McMorrow.

Rose Marie Spence McMorrow was born April 12, 1957, in Ida Grove, Iowa, the daughter of Urban F. and Maria H. (Taphorn) Roeder. The family moved from western Iowa to northeast Iowa in 1969. Rose attended and graduated from Crestwood High School in Cresco, Iowa in 1975. She attended Iowa State University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Horticulture. Rose was the Vice President of Regional Sales for Allied Solutions where she worked for 30 years.

Rose has been a resident of Westborough, Massachusetts since 1994. Her children were educated in Westborough schools. Rose was active in her children's school activities and coached her daughters in community basketball and softball. She was an avid gardener and loved to play golf. Rose also enjoyed growing hybrid tea roses and making homemade raspberry preserves.

Rose is survived by her husband, John P. McMorrow; daughters: Sarah M. Spence of Westborough, Massachusetts and Kelly A. Spence of Boston, Massachusetts; her mother: Marian Roeder of Johnston, Iowa; mother-in-law: Nora McMorrow; her former husband and the father of her daughters: William M. Spence; 12 brothers and sisters: Kathy (Pete) Connors of Star Prairie, Wisconsin, Paul (Kristie) of Waukon, Iowa, Peter of Ankeny, Iowa, Frank (Carry) of Adel, Iowa, Dave (Terry) of Waterloo, Iowa, Darlene of New Hope, Minnesota, Aggie (Rob) Gustafson of Windham, New Hampshire, Maggie (Cody) Spikes of Polk City, Iowa, MaryJane (Robert) Recker of Green River, Wyo., Angie (John) Welch of Clive, Iowa, Joe (special friend Angie Pfeiffer) of Van Meter, Iowa and Judy (Karl) Krueger of Chester, New Hampshire; and a number of aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Rose was preceded in death by her father Urban in 1996; father-in-law: John McMorrow in 2012; niece: Angela in 2003; grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Rose M. Spence McMorrow to support cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via www.dana-farber.org/gift.

Mildred Fossen, 81

Published:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013

LAWLER - Funeral services for Mildred D. Fossen of rural Lawler will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013 at Jerico Lutheran Church in Jerico with Pastor Daniel Larson officiating. Pallbearers will be Bob, Marvin, Mike, Ron, Curtis, Wyman, and Dave Martinek. Interment will be held in Jerico Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. to the time of the service on Thursday only.

Mildred, 81, died on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013 at her home.

Mildred Doris Fossen was born March 27, 1931, in Cresco, Iowa, the daughter of Louis and Bessie (Pecinovksy) Martinek. She attended country school and graduated from Ridgeway High School. Mildred attended and graduated from Luther College in Decorah; earning her teaching degree. She taught country school and then taught fifth grade at Ridgeway School until her retirement in 1971.

On Sept. 5, 1964, she married Harold "Buggs" Fossen at Jerico Lutheran Church. They farmed all of their married life east of Jerico. She was a member of Jerico Lutheran Church and the Protivin Chapter #85 W.F.L.A.

Mildred enjoyed fishing, hunting, farming, and visiting with family and friends. She was the shuttle for nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was a good source for all of the area and family history.

She is survived by her nieces and nephews: Rose Njus of Lawler, Doris (Frankie) Kizer of Bradford, Tenn., Bob (Lori) Martinek of Cresco, Marvin (Michelle) Martinek of Cresco, Carol (Dan) Hrubes of Ankeny, Mike (Ramona) Martinek of Cresco, Betty (Todd) Nash of Belmond, Ron (Beth) Martinek of Rockwell, Susan Martinek of Chicago, Illinois, Curtis (Kirsten) Martinek of Ames, Wyman (Melissa) Martinek of Madrid, Dave Martinek of Cresco, and Janet (Dave) Stalock of Rochester, Minnesota; sister-in-law: JoAnne Martinek of Cresco; and several great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband: Harold "Buggs" Fossen; her parents; and three brothers: Clarence, Arthur, and Edward Martinek.

Alvin Svestka, 71

Published:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013 10:56 AM CST

GARNAVILLO - Memorial services for Alvin J. Svestka of Garnavillo, Iowa, were held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 25, 2013 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church with Rev. Hillary Burns-Kite officiating.

Visitation was held 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 24 at Tuecke-Allyn Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Garnavillo. Visitation continued one hour prior to the service at the church.

Alvin, 71, died Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013 at Guttenberg Municipal Hospital.

Alvin Joseph Svestka was born May 16, 1941 in Cresco, Iowa, the son of William and Philomena (Pecota) Svestka. Alvin graduated from Rudolphinum High School with the class of 1959 and owned and operated the Svestka Trucking Company for over 40 years.

On June 12, 1962, he married Carol Panos. They were later divorced. On Jan. 23, 1988, he married Marilyn "Mitz" Rodenberg at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Garnavillo.

He was an avid Dallas Cowboy, and pro-wrestling fan and enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events.

Alvin is survived by his wife, Marilyn "Mitz"; three daughters: Wendy (Mark) Meirick of Protivin, Kelly (Kurtis) Johnson of Decorah, and Susan (Justin) Elsbernd of Runnells; one step-daughter: Lori Creery of West Union; one son: Galen (Tracy) Svestka of Johnston; nine grandchildren: Lee Meirick, Quinn Meirick, Riley Meirick, Brett Johnson, Marshall Johnson, Gannon Svestka, Colby Svestka, Olivia Elsbernd and Lauren Elsbernd; two step-grandchildren: Nick Creery and Libby Creery; two aunts; one sister-in-law: Beverly Svestka; mother-in-law: Ilo Rodenberg; two sisters-in-law: Karilyn McArthur and Janet (Steve) Christianson; three brothers-in-law: Bill (Bev) Rodenberg, Bob (Vickie) Rodenberg, and Brian (Vicki) Rodenberg; and many nieces and nephews

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother: Roger.

Elizabeth Bigley, 87

Published:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013

ELMA - A Mass of Christian Burial for Elizabeth "Bette" A. Bigley of Elma, Iowa, will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma with Msgr. Carl Schmitt officiating. Pallbearers are her children: Patty Korsmo, Tom Bigley, Mike Bigley, Deb Shroyer, Nancy Bowen and Tim Bigley. Interment will be held in Calvary Cemetery at Elma.

Visitation was held 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 29 with a rosary at 4:30 p.m. at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in Elma. Visitation will continue at the funeral home one hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

Elizabeth, 87, died Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013 at Regional Health Services in Cresco.

Elizabeth Ann Bigley was born Feb. 9, 1925 in Elma, Iowa, the daughter of Edward and Mabel (Roche) McAvoy. She attended Immaculate Conception School in Elma and graduated in 1942. Bette was employed by Chamberlin Manufacturing in Waterloo.

On Sept. 8, 1943, she married Bud Bigley in Texarkana, Texas. They farmed and raised their family near Elma. Bette was employed at Colonial Manor for 17 years.

She enjoyed listening to big band music, dancing, reading, playing cards and spending time with her family. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Elma, the Rosary Society and the Chat and Question Club.

Bette is survived by her children: Patty Korsmo of Cresco, Tom (Sharon) Bigley of Riceville, Mike (Coralee) Bigley of Elma, Deb (Bob) Shroyer of Portland, Oregon, Nancy (Mike) Bowen of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Tim (Linda) Bigley of Johnston, Iowa; 21 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and a brother-in-law: Thomas Bigley of Milwaukee, Wisconsin

She was preceded in death by her husband: Bud in 1985; a grandson: Paul Bigley; two great-grandsons: Devon Korsmo and James Ornelas; her parents; one brother: Leo McAvoy; and one sister: Muriel Gardner.

James Kallevang, 100

Published:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013

CRESCO - Funeral services for James M. Kallevang of Cresco will be held at 11:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013 at First Lutheran Church in Cresco with Pastor Robert Thacker officiating.

Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.

Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco is handling the arrangements.

James, 100, died Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013 which was the eight year death anniversary of his wife Ruth.

James Melvin Kallevang was born April 17, 1912, in rural Winneshiek County, Decorah, Iowa, the son of Julius and Helga Kallevang. He attended school in Springfield Township near Decorah.

On May 5, 1938, Jim married Ruth Mundt at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa. They farmed for 39 years in the Decorah and Cresco areas. During his lifetime of farming, Jim became a steward of soil conservation and firmly believed in and practiced soil conservation. He became a district soil conservation commissioner for Howard County and served for 12 years, four of those years as chairman. He also worked for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) measuring land for farm programs. Jim retired from farming in 1977 and moved to the Cresco community where he worked many odd jobs in carpentry.

He was an active member and officer in many organizations: First Lutheran Church, Farm Bureau, Odd Fellows Lodge, Rebekah Lodge, the Sons of Norway and Square Dancing organizations.

Jim's many interests included fishing, camping, telling stories, carpentry, wood crafting, card playing and dancing. He especially enjoyed square dancing and was a caller in the Cresco area. He also taught the art of square dancing to area youth. Jim and Ruth spent many winters in Texas and Florida.

Jim is survived by three children: Rosalie (Bob) Fountain of Rochester, Minnesota, Carol (Dutch) Doane of Little Cedar, Iowa and Jens (Jane) Kallevang of Waukon; a sister: Mildred Knopf of Decorah; a sister-in-law: Marvel Ode of Lanesboro, Minnesota; nine grandchildren; 17 great-granchidlren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth; a grandchild: Jessica Kallevang; his parents; and a sister: Helen Davis.

Frances Arens, 103

Published:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013

LAWLER - A Mass of Christian Burial for Frances R. Arens of Lawler, Iowa will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler. Interment will be held in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church Cemetery in Lawler.

Friends may greet the family 4-7 p.m. today, Wednesday, Jan. 30 at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton where there will be a 4 p.m. rosary and a 6 p.m. parish scripture service. Visitation will continue an hour prior to the Mass at the church on Thursday

Posted on 29 January 2013