Lloyd R. Loux, 1919-2004

September 8, 2004

Lloyd R. Loux, 84, of Clear Lake, died on Thursday, September 2, 2004, at the Apache Junction Nursing Home, Apache Junction, Arizona.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, September 7, at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, with Lay Assistant, Richard L. Scott officiating, Zion Lutheran Church, Clear Lake. Burial was in the Clear Lake Cemetery, Clear Lake.

Lloyd Robert Loux, was born on December 31, 1919, in Wall Lake Township, Wright County. He was the the son of John R. and Mary (Carpenter) Loux. Lloyd attended school in the Lake Township School in Wright County.

He married Shirley (Lindsey) Loux, on July 14, 1940. The couple had two children. They lived and farmed in Woolstock. Lloyd worked as a parts man for Howie Implement in Garner for 12 years. He retired in 1983 from Iowa Mold and Tool, Garner.

Lloyd enjoyed woodworking, fishing, and remodeling houses. His greatest love was his family. He was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church, Miller. He also attended the Zion Lutheran Church in Clear Lake.

He is survived by wife, Shirley Loux of Clear Lake; children, Dennis and his wife, Virginia "Tootie" Loux of Clear Lake and Diane and her husband, Willard Netland of Mesa, Arizona; grandchildren, Valerie and her husband, John Burtness of Clear Lake, Vonnie and her husband, Scott Amosson of Clear Lake, Dino and his wife, Dawn Loux of Clear Lake, Jeanne Helling and her husband, Jerry Hanson of Dubuque, Jodi and her husband, Ron Claydon of Mesa and Tammy and her husband, Kris Burckhard of Mesa; great-grandchildren, Whitney and Colby Dye, Chase and Cameron Burtness, Jade and Myah Loux, Dustin and Tyler Claydon, Lisa and her husband, Nick Kies, Cody and Rebecca Wolter and Carter Hanson.

Also surviving are a sister, Fern Claude of Woolstock; two sisters-in-law, Nadine Rapp of Clarion and Darlene Lindsey of Webster City; special friend, Carle Rasmuson of Mesa; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his by parents; two sisters, Gladys Kastler and Leona Reiland; two brothers, Lawrence and Clarence Loux; two sisters-in-law, Hilda and Margaret Loux; four brothers-in-law, Everett Lindsey, Buster Kastler, Pete Reiland and Archie Claude.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Richard L. Starry, 1937-2004

September 8, 2004

Richard L. Starry, 67, of Garner, died on Thursday, September 2, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, September 6, at the Cataldo Funeral Chapel in Garner, with the Rev. Edward Bard, Chaplain for Hospice of North Iowa officiating. Music was provided by organist, Connie Greiman who accompanied soloist, Jennifer Lewis and a congregational hymn.

Honorary bearers were Bob Stark and Gordy Beier. Casket bearers were Gene Oswald, Don Ristau, Joel Gracey, Hoc Cam Lai, Travis Fadale and Jordan Gracey. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery in Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Richard LeRoy Starry, the son of Frank and Ramona (Iliff) Starry, was born on December 26, 1937 at Webster City. He attended school in Webster City.

On December 23, 1956, he married Ilo Mae Simons at Webster City. They lived in Maquoketa, Clear Lake and for the past 14 years in Garner.

Richard was employed at Fareway Stores for 15 years and Caterpillar for 20 years, retiring in 1988. Following his retirement, he did some carpentry work and worked at C and A Hobby and Miniature Shop in Mason City. He enjoyed building dollhouses and collecting planes, trains and toys. Richard loved spending time with his family and spoiling his grandchildren and two dogs, Lizzie and Fritz.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Ilo Mae Starry of Garner; daughter, Barbara Kruser and husband, Gregory of Maquoketa; son, Shawn Starry and wife, Hope of Garner; seven grandchildren, Jennifer, Travis, Derek, Kathryn, Joseph, Cody and Brooke; two great-grandchildren, Daisy Mae and Rasta; and two sisters, Kay Ades of Indianola and Jeanne Taylor of California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Nancy Lewis; granddaughter, Carla Fadale; and a sister, Sue Dahlager.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Harold F. Slagle, 1912-2004

September 8, 2004

Harold F. Slagle, 92, of Garner, died on Thursday, September 2, 2004, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

His funeral was held on Saturday, September 4, at the Cataldo Funeral Chapel in Garner, with the Rev. Edward Bard, chaplain of Hospice of North Iowa officiating.

Casket bearers were Scott Weaver, Rich Weaver, Brandon Weaver, Michael Barkhaus, Daniel Barkhaus and James Barkhaus. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Harold Francis Slagle, the son of Oscar and Nellie (Kephart) Slagle, was born on February 29, 1912 at Riceville. He graduated from high school in 1928 at Neilville, Wisconsin.

On April 13, 1935, he married Edna Lucille Womack at Cresco. They farmed in the Riceville area from 1935 to 1947 and then moved to Callender where they continued to farm until 1956. In 1956 they moved to Garner where Harold was employed as a blacksmith and welder. He enjoyed dancing, woodworking and camping.

Harold is survived by his five children, Dale (Ruth) Slagle of Garner, Norma (Dennis) Barkhaus of Pomeroy, Jean (Bob) Wilson of Clear Lake, Nadine Weaver of Clear Lake and Nancy (Frank) Johnson of Panora; 22 grandchildren; 49 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna on January 9, 1997; his parents; a son-in-law, Dick Weaver; two grandchildren, Dawn and Douglas Slagle; a great-grandson, Caleb John MacDonald; a brother, Ralph Slagle; a sister, Ethel Wietzel; and a special friend, Thelma Wier.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Roger D. Johnson, 1931-2004

September 15, 2004

Roger D. Johnson, age 73, of Hayfield, died on Friday, September 3, 2004, at the Concord Care Center in Garner.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, September 7, at the Forest Evangelical Lutheran Church in Forest City, with the Rev. Ted Gullixson officiating. Burial was in the Crystal Lake Cemetery in Crystal Lake. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home, Forest City, was in charge of the arrangements.

Roger D. Johnson, was born on a farm in Winnebago County, near Lake Mills, on August 19, 1931. He was the son of Wilford and Anna (Chose) Johnson. He was baptized and confirmed at the Center Lutheran Church near Scarville and received his education in a rural school near his home.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge from the service, he returned to Forest City and began working for Gjellefald Construction.

On August 31, 1957, he married Janice Farrell in Garner. The couple made Hayfield their home since 1958. For 33 years Roger worked as a custodian for the Garner-Hayfield Schools, retiring in 1993. He enjoyed attending community events and parades all over north Iowa. He took great pride in caring for his vehicles and home and enjoyed gardening and lawn care. For years he would ride his bike to Forest City in the early morning to have biscuits and gravy with his friends at Hardee's. He was a member of the Forest Evangelical Lutheran Church in Forest City.

Survivors include his wife, Janice Johnson of Garner; two sons, Arlyn Johnson and wife, Karrie of Forest City and Joel Johnson and wife, Wendy of West Des Moines.

Also surviving are five grandchildren, Alyssa, Kelsey, Christopher, Haiden and Grace; and one great-granddaughter, Angeleah. He is also survived by two brothers and a sister, Arthur Johnson (Sophie) of Des Moines, Duane Johnson (Virginia) of Albert Lea, Minnesota and Sharon Leegaard of Barrett, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Lon; brothers, Raymond, Oliver and David; and sisters, Evelyn Severson, Wilma Walkup and Helen Tschirki.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Keith Cottington, 1917-2004

September 15, 2004

Keith P. Cottington, of Crystal Lake, died on Saturday, September 4, 2004, at the Westview Care Center, Britt. He was 87.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 8, at the United Methodist Church in Crystal Lake. The Rev. Catherine A. Luck officiated. Music was provided by Kristie Kirshbaum, who accompanied soloists, Bruce Wubben and a congregational hymn. Kenneth Sorenson ushered.

Burial was in the Crystal Lake Cemetery with military graveside rites provided by the Crystal Lake American Legion Post #409. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements. Honorary casket bearers were Dr. A. J. Cullen, Russell Burress, Rodney Swanson, Jeff Cottington, Marvin Hackbarth, Terry Hecker, Ann Tendell, Curt Watson and Wray Hallett. Casket bearers were Kirk Rolland, Kent Penquite, Jim Cottington, Keith Cottington, Doug Cottington, Zane Hobbs and Randy Cottington.

Keith P. Cottington, was born to Levi Bridge and Gertrude Gienap Cottington of rural Crystal Lake, on May 17, 1917. He resided on the family farm in Linden Township until 1941, when he joined the army. Keith served in the 34th Red Bull Division as a sergeant from February of 1941 to August of 1945. He served in campaigns in Africa, Italy and Germany. He was awarded the Purple Heart among many other citations.

He was honorably discharged and upon his return home he married Maxine Enderson in Webster City on June 2, 1946. Keith farmed in the Crystal Lake area until his heart attack. He delivered Winnebago RV's until his retirement in 1990. He resided at the Prairie View Apartments in Garner and later moved to the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Keith was a member of Post #409 American Legion in Crystal Lake and a life member of VFW Post #2818 in Litchfield, Minnesota.

Survivors include eight brothers and sisters, Donald "Red" Cottington of Britt, Richard and Flo Cottington of North Sioux City, South Dakota, Gwen Rolland of Bode, Rex and Beverly Cottington of Phoenix, Arizona, Bruce and Marie Cottington of Litchfield, Minnesota, Marilee and Jim McAlpine of Oak Harbor, Washington, Barbara and Don Penquite of Ankeny and Levi Jr. and Doris Cottington of Crossville, Tennessee.

He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Carol Jean Jensen of Westminster, Colorado; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Maxine; half brothers, Lyle Cottington and Dwight Cottington; half sister, Gladys Siekmeier; and sister, Pauline Watson.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Carol A. McAfee, 1936-2004

September 15, 2004

Carol A. McAfee, 69, of Garner, died on Saturday, September 4, 2004, at her home.

Her funeral was held on Thursday, September 9, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner, with Fr. Jerry Blake officiating. Donna Young was the lector. Music was provided by organist, Carolyn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Robert Kral and Lawrence Engstler.

Honorary bearers were the CD of A-Court Isabella No. 642. Casket bearers were Tim McAfee, Terry McAfee, Sean McAfee, Seamus McAfee, Nick McAfee and Matt Swaim. Burial was in the St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Carol Ann McAfee, the daughter of Derward and Marcella (Hatten) Neitzel, was born on June 3, 1936 at Bancroft. She graduated from the St. John's High School in Bancroft in 1954.

On April 30, 1955, she was married to Dean Edwin McAfee at the St. Michael's Catholic Church in Whittemore. They made their home in Garner where they raised their family and Carol was employed as a home care aide for Hancock County. She enjoyed her family, reading and going to games and musicals of her grandchildren.

She was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church where she had served as a lector, Eucharistic Minister and taught catechism. She was also a member of CD of A, Rosary Society and the Garner VFW Auxiliary.

Survivors include her five children, Tim (Jan) McAfee of Overland Park, Kansas, Tom McAfee of Colleyville, Texas, Terry (Stacy) McAfee of Sacramento, California, Becky (John) Hejlik of Britt and Brenda (Chuck) Swaim of Ames; nine grandchildren, Andrea (A.J.) Spiker, Allison Hejlik, Amber Hejlik, Matthew Swaim, Jessica Swaim, Sean McAfee, Seamus McAfee, Nicholas McAfee and Alexander McAfee; and a great-granddaughter, Katherine Spiker.

Also surviving are three brothers and a sister, Ed (Hope) Nietzel of Seguin, Texas, Tom (Janet) Neitzel of Silverdale, Washington, Mary Kay Strickler of Mason City and Jim (Charlotte) Neitzel of Olympia, Washington; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Dean on December 28, 2001; and a granddaughter, Shannon McAfee.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Viola Lewerke, 1916-2004

September 15, 2004

Viola Lewerke, of Garner, died on Wednesday, September 8, 2004, at the Concord Care Center, Garner. She was 88.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 11, at the Zion Church of the Nazarene in Britt. The Rev. Brandt Freeburg and the Rev. Ron Van Wey officiated. Music was provided by pianist, Frances Freeburg who accompanied vocalists, Jacklyn Malek, Marcia Upmeyer and Brenda Haag. Myrlen Olsen and Kenny Shipler ushered.

Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. Services were under the direction of the Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt. Casket bearers were Ron Lewerke, Tim Lewerke, Bob Lewerke, Jim Powers, Jeff Powers, Brent Powers, Mark Lewerke, Rich Lewerke, David Lewerke, Tom Langlitz and Eric Imel.

Viola, the daughter of William H. and Mary Alice Edwards Broome was born on March 10, 1916 in Williams.

She was united in marriage with Pete Lewerke, on April 5, 1935, in Britt. She worked at Stitchcraft at Forest City for 14 years, retiring in April of 1978.

Viola enjoyed gardening, canning, quilting and music. Her greatest love was serving the Lord and spending time with her family. She was a faithful woman of prayer. She was a member of the Britt Zion Church of the Nazarene.

Survivors include her husband, Pete Lewerke of Garner; three sons and two daughters, Bob Lewerke and his wife, Marline of Mason City, Wanda Powers and her husband, Jack of Garner, Jerry Lewerke and his wife, Susan of Britt, David Lewerke and his wife, Diane of Prescott, Arizona and Sherry Langlitz of Garner; 20 grandchildren, Ron (Betsy) Lewerke, Tim (Lisa) Lewerke, Bob (Terri) Lewerke, Marcia (Ron) Upmeyer, Jacklyn (Don) Malek, Jim (Pat) Powers, Jeff (Biz) Powers, Brenda (Jim) Haag, Brent (Teri) Powers, Mark (Joann) Lewerke, Rich Lewerke, Andrea (Randy) Hayungs, Eric (Mikki) Imel, Shannon Imel, David (Angela) Lewerke, April (Josh) Gross, Angela Lewerke, Autumn (Dustin) Butler, Tom Langlitz, Nancy (Matt) Anderson; 38 great-grandchildren; and ten great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; six sisters; ten brothers; daughter-in-law, Pat Lewerke (1992); great-grandson, Andy Upmeyer (1992); grand-daughter, Marne Lewerke (1998); and son-in-law, Bill Langlitz (2000).
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Roberta Cooper, 1932-2004

September 22, 2004

Garner native Roberta Cooper, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, died on Saturday, September 12, 2004, at Sioux Falls. She was 72.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 16, at the Wildflower Presbyterian Church, Sioux Falls. The Rev. Jennifer Swier officiated. Pallbearers were Dennis Kiner, Dave Forseth, Scott Cooper and Buddy Cooper. Burial was in the Hills of Rest Memorial Park, Sioux Falls. The George Bloom Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Roberta Joan Armstrong, daughter of Burt W. and Vera (Stewart) Armstrong, was born on January 15, 1932 at Garner, where she grew up and graduated from high school.

She was united in marriage with Ralph D. Cooper on April 9, 1952 at Garner. Following their marriage the couple lived in Mitchell and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Bobbie worked for J C Penney and for Citibank for many years. She was an active member of the Wildflower Presbyterian Church, where she participated in circle, Bible Study, prayer chain, and also served as a Deacon.

Bobbie's family was the most important aspect of her life. She was active as a volunteer for the RSVP Program, driving friends to various events, recycling newspapers for the Humane Society, attending J C Penney and Citibank retiree get-togethers, playing Bunko and helping with Sunday School at church. She also traveled extensively by bus tour and plane including Branson, Missouri, Hawaii, and most recently to Las Vegas with her sister, Delores.

She became a resident at Sunnycrest Apartments five months ago, where she was involved in the day-to-day activities of the community.

Survivors include her son, Mike (Terri) Cooper of Sioux Falls; daughter, Brenda (Garry) Forseth of Sioux Falls; three grandchildren, Becky Cooper of Colton, South Dakota, Scott Cooper of Hutchinson, Minnesota and Madi Forseth of Sioux Falls; one great-granddaughter, Taylor Lindekugel of Colton, South Dakota; and one sister, Delores Shoger of Charleston, West Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph on April 9, 2000; her parents; and one sister, Eunice Kammrad.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Alvin Halverson, 1924-2004

September 22, 2004

Alvin H. Halverson, 80, of Garner, died on Wednesday, September 15, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 18, at the United Presbyterian Church in Garner, with the Rev. Linzy Collins officiating. Music was provided by organist, Audrey Sonnenberg who accompanied congregational hymns. Special music was provided by Rev. Collins and Sheree Pedersen. Ushers were Bill Adams and Mark Katuin.

Honorary bearers were the North Garner Community Club and the North Iowa Woodcarvers. Casket bearers were Mike Halverson, Terry Hammond, Donovan Blumer, Jim Crone, Paul Nelson and Jeff Powers. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery in Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Alvin Harry Halverson, the son of Harland and Fern (Juhl) Halverson, was born on March 9, 1924, on a farm near Miller. When Alvin was 6 years old his mother, Fern, passed away and his father then married Viola Olson. He attended country school near Miller and helped his father on the farm.

On May 21, 1945, he married Betty Jane Blumer at the Miller Lutheran Church. They lived north of Garner where he farmed and worked at the Butz Hatchery in Garner. Alvin drove school bus for the Garner-Hayfield Community School District for 28 years. When they moved into town, Alvin began working in the livestock artificial insemination business and was a substitute driver for the Star mail route. He enjoyed his family, woodcarving and visiting with people.

He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church in Garner, the North Garner Community Club and the North Iowa Woodcarvers.

Survivors include his wife, Betty of Garner; four children, Gerald (Carol) Halverson of Coralville, Gloria Halverson of Garner, Brenda (Dave) Zimple of Badger and Sandra (Matt) Crone of Garner; three grandchildren, Stephanie Zimple of Waterloo, Melinda Zimple of Fort Dodge and Logan Crone of Garner; a sister, Norma Hammond of Leland; a sister-in-law, LaVera Halverson of Garner; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother; and a brother, Franklin Halverson.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Cynthia Blumer-Francis, 1960-2004

September 29, 2004

Cynthia (Cindy) L. Blumer-Francis, 44, of Mason City, died on Wednesday, September 15, 2004, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, September 20, with the Rev. Wendy Johannesen officiating. Interment was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.

Cindy Lou Francis, was born on January 13, 1960 at Britt. She was the daughter of Harold Blumer and Marlys (Rafferty) Hyland.

Cindy was caring, artistic and a loving person with her number one job of being a mother and taking care of her family. She enjoyed spending time with her family and taking care of abandoned animals. She was a Hot Wheel collector and member of the Hot Wheels Club of Iowa.

Survivors include her husband, Steve Francis of Mason City; six children, Heather Blumer of Mason City, Hanna Blumer, Angela Francis, Nicholas Francis, all at home, Tanya (Brad) Dalluge of Grafton and Jeff (Tina) Francis of Manly; her parents, Harold (Dorothy) Blumer of Garner and Marlys (Bob) Hyland of Des Moines.

Also surviving are two brothers, Douglas Blumer of Mason City and Thomas Blumer of Garner; one sister, Sheila Blumer of Garner; five step-sisters, Darlene (Larry) Backer of Bayfield, Colorado, Nancy (Clyde) Gumbert of Hampton, Virginia, Lynn (Craig) Patterson of Cedar Falls, Regina (Bill) Pirtle and Jeanne (John) Crise; one step-brother, Richard Wille of Garner; six grandchildren, Anthony Harris, Jacob, Damon and Cierra Dalluage, Jacey and Zoey Francis; a special friend, Danike Piper of Mason City; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephew and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Tom and Elsie Rafferty and Jacob and Fannie Blumer; a grandchild, Christian Dalluge; two cousins, Jody Kaster and Karen Ausmus.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Bernhard Vierkant, 1929-2004

September 29, 2004

Bernhard E. Vierkant, of Mason City, died on Saturday, September 18, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa. He was 74.

Graveside funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 22, 2004, at the Meservey Cemetery with the Rev. Rodney Meester of First Reformed Church, Meservey, presiding. Veteran's rites were conducted by the Mason City Veteran's Memorial Association. The Retz-Grarup Funeral Home of Meservey was in charge of the arrangements.

Bernhard Eugene Vierkant, was born on December 25, 1929 in Franklin County. He was the son of Herman H. and Grace (Fekkers) Vierkant. He was baptized and confirmed in the First Reformed Church in Meservey. He attended country school.

Bernhard was united in marriage with Lucille A. Schultz in Aberdeen, Maryland. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He returned to Meservey with his family and drove truck with Vierkant and Son Trucking. Later he sold the business and drove truck for Doden trucking and others. For the last 22 years Bernie drove a bus for Mason City Transit.

He was a life member of the VFW in Mason City and a member of the American Legion and Moose Lodge. Bernie was quite a good mechanic and liked tinkering with cars and trucks. He liked reading western books, gardening and traveling.

Survivors include his four children, Linda Wessels of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Robert and Meri (Kathy) Vierkant of Belmond, Carol Schoenwetter of Garner and Vicki Taylor of Ankeny; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; a sister, Noreen (Ed) Schwierjohann of Sheffield; special friends, Lorraine Brackey and Barb Laughlin of Mason City.

Bernie was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, LaVerne Vierkant.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Marie M. Vogel, 1928-2004

September 29, 2004

Marie M. Vogel. 76, of Garner, died on Monday, September 20, 2004, at the Concord Care Center in Garner.

Her funeral was held on Thursday, September 23, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church, with Fr. Michael Schueller officiating. Donna Young was the lector. Music was provided by organist, Carolyn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Special music was provided by Mary Chambers.

Honorary bearers were Marvin Engstler, Bill Young, Paul Young and Phil Garland. Casket bearers were Brad Butin, Jimmy Butin, Mark Vogel, Chris Vogel, Nick Weber and Jim Weber. Burial was in the St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the Hospice of North Iowa.

Marie Matilda Vogel, the daughter of Charles A. and Coletta (Sondag) Webb, was born on July 16, 1928 at Sigourney. She attended the Plank Township #9 Country School near Sigourney and helped her family on the farm.

On January 21, 1948, she was married to Joseph Richard Vogel at the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Harper. They lived in Sigourney until moving to Garner in 1958. Marie was employed as a school cook in Garner for 32 years. She retired in 1992. She enjoyed her grandchildren, cooking, sewing and gardening. She was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church and Rosary Society.

Marie is survived by her husband, Joseph of Garner; three children, James (Kathy) Vogel of League, Texas, John (Lee Ann) Vogel of League, Texas and Bonnie (Robert) Butin of Garner; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Jane (Tony) Weber of Washington and Helen (Dale) Barnhart of Sigourney; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by infant twin daughters, Teresa and Mary; her parents; and two brothers, Paul and Francis Webb.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

William F. Chizek, 1931-2004

October 6, 2004

William F. Chizek, of Britt, died on Saturday, September 25, 2004, at the Hospice House of North Iowa in Mason City. He was 73.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, September 28, at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Duncan. The Rev. Michael Schuller officiated. Jerry Chizek and Donald Chizek were lectors. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied soloist, Louis Zrostlik. Anton Trca and Dean Rieke ushered.

Honorary casket bearers were Matthew Chizek and Jackson Chizek. Casket bearers were Matthew Chizek, Jared Chizek, Travis Chizek, Nathan Chizek, Zachary Chizek and Ryan Chizek. Burial was in the St. John's Cemetery, Duncan, with graveside military services provided by the Britt Veteran's Ceremonial Unit. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

William Francis Chizek, the son of William A. and Lillian (Kopacek) Chizek was born on September 1, 1931 at Garner. He graduated from the Britt High School with the class of 1949. Following graduation he served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

William was united in marriage with Blanche Rose Formanek on June 19, 1956. The couple farmed and made their home on the family farm near Britt.

William was a life time member of the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan, where he served on the church and hall boards and was a member of the Catholic Workman Branch #51. He was active in the Britt VFW Post #4370 and Britt American Legion Post #315, serving as Commander with both organizations. William was also Chairman of the Britt Easter Egg Hunt for a number of years. He enjoyed fishing and dancing and spending time with family and friends.

William is survived by his wife of 48 years, Blanche; and their six children, Jerry (Pam) of Manson and children, Matthew (Rhiannon), Jared and Travis, Donald (Mary) of Cedar Rapids and children, Ryan, Katelyn and Patrick, Bonnie (Pete) Wilhite of Corwith and children, Chelcee and Luke, William G. (Karen) of Prairie City and children, Nicole, Nathan, Zachary, Jazmine, Mathew and Madyson, Patricia (Don) Swanson of Ottumwa and children, Jacob and Erica, and James (Renee) of Loganville, Georgia and son, Jackson; and a sister, Marie (Gary) Wieck.

Survivors also include his sister-in-law, Lorraine Chizek; brother-in-law, Francis Arndorfer; mother-in-law, Elsie Formanek; brother-in-law, Robert (Alvera) Formanek; and sisters-in-law, Marge (Tom) Ryerson and Marlene (Craig) Leerar; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Ashlee Noel Chizek; sister, Lorene Arndorfer; and brother, Arthur Chizek.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Jack Hernon, 1912-2004

October 6, 2004

Jack Hernon, of Forest City, died on Monday, September 27, 2004, at the Westview Care Center in Britt. He was 92.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 30, at the Ewing-Dugger Funeral Chapel in Britt. The Rev. Penny Thacker officiated. Music was provided by organist, Brenda Smith who accompanied soloist, John Weishaar. Casket bearers were Jon Hiscocks, Donald Hiscocks, Dean Hiscocks, Milo Kollasch, Jim Hoffmann and Jim Hansen. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt.

Jack, the son of Thomas and Millie Iverson Hernon, was born on June 16, 1912, at Medicine Lake, Montana. After the death of his father in 1915, the family moved to Forest City. He graduated from the Forest City High School in 1929. He was united in marriage with Mildred Rapp on July 23, 1938 in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Jack was employed by Richardson Tire Shop, Forest City Municipal Power Plant and Dairyland Coop. The couple moved to Algona in 1951, where Jack was employed by the Algona Municipal Plant until retiring in 1977.

Following retirement, Jack and Mildred moved to their cottage in Clear Lake, where they would spend their summers. They would travel and spend time at Bermuda Palms in Earp, California during the winter. In 1992, they decided to spend full time at the lake. Jack and Mildred moved to Forest City in 2001.

A veteran of World War II, Jack was a life time member of the American Legion Post #121 in Forest City. He had a love for nature and birds and was a photographer.

Survivors include his wife, Mildred; a sister-in-law, Ethel Hernon of Houston, Texas; two nephews, Patrick Hernon of Pasadena, Texas and Peter Hernon of Farmington, Maine.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Robert and Horace.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Barbara Cromwell, 1945-2004

October 6, 2004

Barbara E. Lorenzen Cromwell, 59, of Woden, died on Tuesday, September 28, 2004, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, October 2, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Woden. The Rev. Arlen Lloyd officiated. Music was provided by organist, Karen Post who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and a congregational hymn. Ushers were Bill Gerdes and Lyle Doege.

Casket bearers were Clay Hobbs, Bryce Juhl, Larry Flatebo, Corey Williams, Darrell Brandt and Lisa Lorenzen. Interment will be at a later date in the Bingham Township Cemetery, Woden. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Barbara Ellan Lorenzen Cromwell, the daughter of Willie and Charlotte (Smith) Phillips was born on March 24, 1945 at Buffalo Center. She attended country school near Woden until the age of 11, when she moved with her family to Marietta, Minnesota.

On October 25, 1961, she was married to Vernon Lorenzen at Madison, Minnesota. They lived in South Dakota where they raised their six children before moving to Woden in 1969. In May of 1971 another child, Scott, was added to their family. Barb was employed at Winnebago Industries from 1971 to 1974. She drove school bus from 1974 to 1980 and in 1975 started Barb's Poultry Picking, which she operated until selling it to her daughter, Tammy in 1983. She began driving semi in 1975 for Bituminus in Algona and later for Brazos Transport in Fort Dodge. On July 27, 1986 her husband, Vernon, died in a semi accident. After his death, Barb continued to live in Woden and in 1988 began driving for Kelm Transport and ran the terminal.

On June 9, 1990, she was married to Marlin Cromwell at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Forest City. They lived in Woden and drove semi together for Norseman Trucking in Lake Mills. They continued to drive as a team until August 6, 2004.

Barb enjoyed her grandchildren, gardening, tending to her flowerbeds, camping, NASCAR racing, needlework and collecting dolls, beanie babies, angels and music boxes. She also enjoyed playing bear claw machines and would give her prizes to her grandchildren or children in need. She was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church and the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

Survivors include her husband, Marlin of Woden; seven children, Kimberly (Larry) Flatebo of Woden, Susan (Darrell) Brandt of Bricelyn, Minnesota, Robert (Lisa) Lorenzen of Mason City, Tammra Lorenzen and significant other, Corey Williams of Buffalo Center, Patricia (Clay) Hobbs of Britt, Pamela (Bryce) Juhl of Fort Dodge and Scott (Tina) Lorenzen of Lincolnton, Georgia; a step-daughter, Terry Rogers of Boone; grandchildren, Kristi, Jeremy, Renae, Matthew, Shannon, Lucas, Austin, Laura, Daniel, Brianna, Ryan, Evan, Logan, Morgan, Cassandra, Dakota and Devin; step-grandchildren, Jessica, Jon, James, Jessa and Janelle; a brother, Billy (Ingrid) Phillips of Rockford, Illinois; a sister, Beverly Phillips of Fort Worth, Texas; and many nieces, nephews and other family.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Vernon; and her parents.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Maria del Carmen Delao, 1923-2004

October 6, 2004

Maria del Carmen Delao, of Britt, died on Wednesday, September 29, 2004, at the Westview Care Center, Britt. She was 81.

Her funeral was held on Monday, October 4, in Sioux City. Burial was at Ponca, Nebraska. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Maria del Carmen Delao, the daughter of Cliofas and Joaquina (Herrera) Torres, was born on February 18, 1923 at San Felipe, Guanajuato, Mexico. In 1939 she was married to Jose Nemecio Delao in San Felipe. They lived in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico.

In 1981 they moved to the U.S. settling in Sioux City. For a short time, Carmen and Jose lived in McAllen, Texas where he died on June 15, 1984. Carmen then moved to Denison to live with her daughter, Hermelinda Zamago. In 1988, the family moved to Britt. She enjoyed her family and many friends. She was a member of the Catholic Church.

Survivors include her children, Guadalupe (Angela) Delao, Juana (Anastacio) Gonzales, Maria De La Luz (Claudio) Rodriguez, Ignacio (Nancy Brady) Delao, Celia (Juan) Ramirez, Amalia (Sergio Antonio) Casanova and Hermelinda (Raymundo) Zamago; a daughter-in-law, Guadalupe Mancillas; and grandchildren, Jesus, Ester, Carmen, Guadalupe, Martin, Elizabeth, Griselda, Melisa, Angela, Juana, Martin, Anastacio, Elvira, Alma, Blanca, Angelina, Natali, David, Martin, Marilu, Maribel, Jesus, Ignacio, Irma, Dora Alicia, Javier, Claudio, Claudia, Alejandro, Anita, Rodrigo, Jose Luis, Jessica, Marilu, Alejandro, Noel, Nicolas, Tono, Lorena, Denisse, Antonio, Raymundo Jr., Rolando and Crystal.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jose; her parents; and six children, Gilberto, Maria del Carmen Delao, Hector, Nemecio, Adrian and Rosalie Delao.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004

Bernadine Standley, 1923-2004

October 13, 2004

Bernadine E. Standley, of Mount Pleasant, formerly of the Clear Lake and Klemme areas, died on Thursday, September 30, 2004, at the Henry County Health Center in Mount Pleasant. She was 80.

Funeral services for Bernadine Standley were held on Tuesday, October 5, at the Weir and Kimzey Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant. The Rev. Jeffrey L. Crawford of the Calvary Baptist Church, Mount Pleasant, officiated. Burial was in the Forest Home Cemetery, Mount Pleasant.

Bernadine Elaine Standley, was born on October 2, 1923 in Clear Lake. She was the daughter of Orris and Lenora (Lawhorn) Lundy. She was raised and attended schools in the Clear Lake and Klemme areas. On May 30, 1940, Bernadine Lundy and Donald Clark Standley were married at Sheffield.

Mrs. Standley worked at the Surf Ballroom and the Holiday Restaurant in Clear Lake. In 1966, the family moved to make their home in Mount Pleasant. Mrs. Standley was employed by Emerson Electric, Heatilator and Motorola, all in Mount Pleasant. For several years after that she was the secretary for the Mount Pleasant office of the Iowa Department of Health. She retired in 1985.

Bernadine enjoyed sewing, baking and cooking. She also found time to engage in several forms of craft making.

Survivors include two sons and their wives, Don W. and Lois Standley of Garner and Jim and Linda Standley of Fultondale, Alabama; three daughters, Donnitta Hayungs and her friend, Joe Shafer of Garner, Cindy Koelm an her husband, Raymond of Altamont, Illinois and Kathy Kimbrough and her husband, Keith of Mount Pleasant; one sister, Madelyn Paca of Garner; one sister-in-law, Aretta Van Dorin of Mount Pleasant; 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald on September 3, 1971; a son-in-law, Robert Hayungs; and a brother-in-law, George Paca.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2004