Frances D. Pannhoff, 1934-2005

June 8, 2005

Frances "Frannie" D. Pannhoff, 70, a resident of the Concord Care Center, Garner, formerly a resident of Klemme and Kanawha, died on Friday, June 3, 2005, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City. She was 70.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 7, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman officiated. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme was in charge of the arrangements.

Frances Delores Otto, was born on November 2, 1934 at Rockford. She was the daughter of Charlie and Helen (Hutchison) Otto. She attended the Rockford Area Schools and graduated from the Rockford High School in 1953.

Frances was united in marriage on January 13, 1956, to Kenneth "Kenny" D. Pannhoff at the Little Brown Church, Nashua. The couple made their home and raised their family in the Klemme and Kanawha areas. They lived in Klemme from 1962-82. They moved to Kanawha in 1982, residing there until Frannie moved to the Concord Care Center on July 13, 2001. Kenny also resides at the Care Center.

Frances was a life long home maker, devoted wife, loving mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed times spent with her family and friends. Family fishing excursions and get togethers were some of her favorite pastimes.

Her faith life was very important to her and she was very active in both the Klemme and Kanawha church families. Enjoyment came from times spent with various Bible studies. In later years she liked to attend church services at the Care Center.

Frannie enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles and playing card games. She enjoyed doing embroidery and needlepoint. She was a volunteer at the Concord Care Center for a number of years prior to becoming a resident. She will be remembered fondly for her wonderful sense of humor.

Survivors include her husband and life partner of nearly 50 years, Kenny Pannhoff of Garner; three sons, Jim of Forest City, Al and wife, Connie of Swea City and Doug and wife, Tracie of Klemme; two daughters, Patty and special friend, Dan Smith of Klemme and Sharon and husband, Donny Reysack of Klemme; 11 grandchildren, Teri Jo Cohrs of Klemme, Andy Cohrs of Garner, Tanya Harley of Klemme, Jeremy Pannhoff of Mason City, Michael Pannhoff, Nathan Pannhoff, Ashley Pannhoff, Telsie and Brittney, all of Klemme and Serena and Collin Pannhoff of Swea City; and seven great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are a sister, Joyce Constein of Greene; half-sisters, Nancy Holm of Mason City and Janice Fisher of Waterloo; and also many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Larry; a daughter, Jean; brothers-in-law, Francis Constein, Dean Pannhoff and Lyle Pannhoff; sister-in-law, Arlene (Pannhoff) Lovik; and a niece, Linda Constein.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Fern M. Linahon, 1925-2005

June 8, 2005

Fern M. Linahon, 79, a long time resident of Klemme, most recently a resident of the Concord Care Center, Garner, died on Friday, June 3, 2005, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient, Mason City.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, June 8, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman will officiate. Burial will be in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, from 5-8:00 p.m., at the Immanuel Reformed UCC Church, Klemme and continue one hour prior to the services at the church. The Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme is in charge of the arrangements.

Fern Marjorie Linahon, the daughter of Edward and Christine (Ausborn) Gifford, was born on October 28, 1925, on a farm south of Klemme. She attended various country schools and the Ventura High School.

Fern married William Dale Linahon in November 1946 and to this union was born two children, Jerry D. Linahon and Marlene F. Linahon-Smith.

Fern enjoyed gardening, horses, and dogs. She was also well known for her outstanding wedding cakes and decorating skills. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and creating her own designs. She was also well known for her wonderful cooking skills.

Fern was an active member and served in various roles, including as an officer in the Veterans Ladies' Auxiliary. In her younger years she was a Cub Scout Den Mother.

She has resided at the Concord Care Center since August 2002.

Survivors include her son, Jerry and wife, Melba of Laurel, Montana; her daughter, Marlene and husband, James (Jack) Smith of Klemme; grandchildren, Kristal Hodges of Redmond, Oregon, Nicole Eastlick of Wichita, Kansas, Matthew Linahon of Forest City, Michelle Rodriguez of Redmond, Oregon, Christina Smith of Klemme and Teri Smith of Klemme; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; various aunts, uncles, cousins, and special friends.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Thelma M. Arnold, 1918-2005

June 8, 2005

Thelma M. Arnold, age 86, died on Friday, June 3, 2005, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 8, at 10:30 a.m., at the Klemme United Methodist Church. The Rev. Paddy Druhl will officiate. Interment will be in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5-8:00 p.m., at the Andrews Funeral Home, 528 East Main St. Klemme and continue one hour prior to the services at the church on Wednesday.

Thelma Maxine Chambers Arnold, was born on July 28, 1918 in Millston, Wisconsin, to John Arthur Chambers and Lois Ann (Tabb) Chambers. In 1922, the Chambers family moved to Delta, Utah. In 1925, they moved to Corwith, where Thelma spent her formative years among a close knit extended family. Thelma was valedictorian of the Corwith High School class of 1936. She graduated from Iowa State College (now Iowa State University) in 1940, where she majored in Home Economics. After graduation from ISC, she taught Home Economics for two years in Lamont, then at Britt, until she married.

After marriage to Roy Elmer Arnold on June 18, 1946, Thelma became a full time wife and eventually mother of four, William, Arlys, Don and Lance. Her family was very important to her, and many activities centered around it, baking special birthday cakes, helping with her sons' Cub Scout activities and Arlys's 4-H demonstrations.

She enjoyed gardening and frequently canned many summer foods to enjoy later in the year. She was interested in genealogy, particularly of the Tabb and Chambers families and enjoyed numerous family gatherings.

Over the years, Thelma was involved in a variety of clubs and organizations. She was a 4-H Club Leader in Avery Township and an in demand 4-H judge in all nearby counties before county fair time. She was a member, and often officer, of these organizations: United Methodist Women, the American Legion Auxiliary, Farm Bureau Women, the Hancock County Historical Society, the Riverside Club, Eastern Star, Potpourri, Garden Club and the Grandmothers Club.

On May 31, she suffered a stroke from which she never recovered.

Survivors include her husband of nearly 59 years, Roy; her sons, William "Bill" (Lanette Charbonneaux Trca) Arnold and Lance (Christine "Tish" Berner) Arnold; her daughter, Arlys Arnold (Carol Lilygren), all of Klemme and her son, Don Arnold (Gail Spensley) of Taos, New Mexico; seven grandchildren, Monica Trca-Charlie (Jason Charlie), Michelle Trca, Tami Trca, Travis (Trisha Barz) Trca, Bradi Arnold, Kelly Arnold and Robert Arnold; and six great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are brothers-in-law, Wilbur Arnold and Bruce Arnold; sister-in-law, Evelyn Arnold; eight nieces and nephews and their families; cousin, Novella Bredbenner; other extended family members; and special long time friends, Betty Masterson Williams, Irene Schaal Potter and Ruth Moeller.

Preceding Thelma in death were her parents; brother, Wayne Chambers; and sister-in-law, Nancy Chambers.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Jennie Lewerke, 1913-2005

June 15, 2005

Former Crystal Lake resident, Jennie Lewerke, 91, of Mason City, died on Saturday, June 4, 2005, at the I.O.O.F. Home, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 9, at the Rolling Acres Christian Reformed Church, Mason City, with the Rev. Jack Vanden Heuvel officiating. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. The Hogan-Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City was in charge of the arrangements.

Jennie was born on August 3, 1913 in Barnevold, Holland. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dick VanRavenhorst. She came at the age of 6, with her parents and siblings to America. They settled in Rock Valley and later the Hollandale, Minnesota, area where she attended school.

Jennie married Lewie Lewerke on February 26, 1934 at Hollandale, Minnesota. They moved to the Crystal Lake area where they were vegetable farmers. Due to their strong Christian beliefs, there was a large entry sign stating "No Sale On Sunday" that greeted everyone. They retired in 1967 and moved to Mason City. She worked as a banquet waitress for over 25 years at the Sheraton and Hanford Inn, Mason City.

She enjoyed canning, gardening, morning coffee and afternoon tea with her family and friends, but the greatest joy in life was spending time with her family. She was a member of the Woden Christian Reformed Church until she moved to Mason City and became a member of the Rolling Acres Christian Reformed Church, Mason City.

Survivors include four children, Ella Frenz, Dick Lewerke and his wife, Bonnie, Al Lewerke and his wife, Barb and Zelda Elwood and her husband, Larry all of Mason City; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are three sisters-in-law, Hilda Loecker of Clarks Grove, Minnesota, Esther VanRavenhorst of Albert Lea, Minnesota and Lois VanRavenhorst of Lake Mills.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and his 14 brothers and sisters; son-in-law, Bob Frenz; and 12 brothers and sisters.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Marvin Ziesmer, 1914-2005

June 15, 2005

Marvin W. Ziesmer, 90, of Garner, died on Tuesday, June 7, 2005, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, June 22, at the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner, with the Rev. Dale Glawatz of the St. Paul Lutheran Church officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Garner Veterans Ceremonial Unit. There will be no visitation. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner is in charge of the arrangements.

Marvin William Ziesmer, the son of William and Magdalena "Lena" (Haes) Ziesmer, was born on September 13, 1914 at Garner. He was baptized and confirmed at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner. He graduated from the Garner High School in 1932 and Drake University in Des Moines in 1936. While in college he lettered in football and in track as a pole vaulter.

On August 3, 1940, he married Ellamae Goodell in Clear Lake. He started his teaching career in the Battle Creek School System. On June 1, 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

He was commissioned as an officer and served his country in the Pacific Theatre until 1945. Following his honorable discharge he attended the University of Minnesota where he received his master's degree. The next eight years he spent as Superintendent of Schools at Galva. He then accepted the position of Assistant Superintendent and Director of Education at the Cedar Falls Schools. After 21 years at Cedar Falls, he retired and moved to Mesa, Arizona.

Marvin is survived by three sisters, Robertine Gatchel of Garner, Jeanne (Clinton) Stille of Emmetsburg and Doris (Dean) Goll of Garner; and a sister-in-law, Virginia Ziesmer of Bend, Oregon.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ellamae on October 20, 2001; his parents; two sisters, Lucille Yohn and Ruth Solschied; and a brother, Leland Ziesmer.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Clifford Anderson, 1918-2005

June 15, 2005

Clifford K. Anderson, 87, of Klemme, died on Wednesday, June 8, 2005, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 11, at the Peace Reformed Church, south of Garner, with the Rev. Jeff DeBoer officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mrs. Connie Greiman, who accompanied congregational hymns. Special music was provided by Clifford's family. Ushers were Gary Lenz and Bill Katter.

Casket bearers were Grant Anderson, Mike Anderson, Paul Anderson, Jill Anderson, Lee Blank and Dan Huinker. Honorary bearers were Shelly Blank, Shawn Huinker and Laura Anderson. Burial was in the church cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home, Garner, was in charge of the arrangements.

Clifford Kenneth Anderson, the son of Verdie and Loraine (Sandry) Anderson, was born on June 6. 1918 at Goodell. When he was nine months old, his mother passed away and Cliff was raised by his paternal grandmother, Mrs. Mary (Andrew) Anderson in Garner. He graduated from the Garner High School in 1935.

On January 30, 1941, he married Evelyn Lenz at the Peace Reformed Church near Garner. To this union two sons were born, Donald and Robert. They farmed near Goodell for a short time and then moved to a farm near Klemme in 1944. Evelyn died on October 15, 1956, at the age of 38.

Clifford continued to live and farm on their farm following her death until moving to Prairie View Apartments in Garner in October of 2004. He enjoyed farming, cattle shows, sports of all kinds and playing cards, especially cribbage. He loved all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much and enjoyed watching all of their sports and other activities. He always looked forward to family gatherings. Cliff will be lovingly remembered for his pleasant personality and smile.

He was a member of the Peace Reformed Church, where he had been a deacon and taught Sunday School. Clifford was active in many organizations and boards, including the Klemme School Board, where he was president for many years.

Clifford is survived by his two sons, Donald (Alice) Anderson of Sioux Falls, South Dakota and their three children, Paul, Jill and Laura Anderson and Robert (Sheryl) Anderson of Garner and their four children, Shelley (Lee) Blank, Shawn (Dan) Huinker, Grant (Brenda) Anderson and Mike (Abby) Anderson; ten great-grandchildren; two half-sisters, Marian Lou (Roland) Kinseth of Belmond and Loretta Smith of Belmond; and a half-brother, Harold (Bonnie) Anderson of Goodell.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn; his parents; step-mother, Mary E. (Goodridge) Anderson; two brothers, William "Andrew" Anderson and Harry Anderson; a sister, Mary (Carl) Prelip; a half-sister, Harriet (Bernard) Halfpop; and two half-brothers, Verdie "Harvey" Anderson and Leonard Anderson.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Barbara Formanek, 1940-2005

June 22, 2005

Barbara E. Formanek, 65, of Clear Lake, died on Tuesday, June 14, 2005, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, after a five year struggle with multiple myeloma.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 17, at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan, with the Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Anton Trca was the lector. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were George Tusha and Don Trca.

Casket bearers were Seth Foy, Eric Elliott, Craig Arndt, Michael Arndt, Darrell Brown and Ben Blasberg. Burial was in the St. John's Catholic Cemetery, Duncan. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner was in charge of the arrangements.

Barbara Ellen Formanek, the daughter of George and Dorothy (Greiman) Wilson, was born on January 31, 1940 at Mason City. She attended school at Ventura and graduated from the Swaledale High School in 1958.

On September 11, 1958, she was married to Allan Dwayne Formanek at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan. They farmed south of Hayfield for ten years and then owned and operated Al's Grocery in Duncan for five years. In 1974, they purchased the A & W in Britt which they operated for 17 years. They also owned and operated an A & W in Clarion. They lived in Clear Lake since 1989. Her first job experience was with the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company in Garner.

After retirement, she enjoyed managing Kasey Kathleen's Boutique and then at the Red Geranium, both in Clear Lake. She cherished spending time with her family, decorating her home and wintering in Arizona. She was a member of the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Rosary Society, Catholic Workman Branch No. 51 and T.T.T.

Survivors include her husband, Allan of Clear Lake; two daughters, Lori Foy and husband, Shawn of Elko, Minnesota and Kathi Morris and husband, Kenneth of Phoenix, Arizona; three grandchildren, Amanda Barbara Elliott and husband, Eric, Seth Foy and Kenneth Joseph Morris III (Trey).

Also surviving are three sisters, Nancy Ward and husband, Dennis of Rockwell, Linda Lapierre and husband, Mike of Universal City, Texas and Beth Milbrandt and husband, Dennis of Rockwell; a brother-in-law, Robert Arndt of Rockwell; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Janet.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Ileene A. Ptacek, 1921-2005

June 22, 2005

Ileene Agnes Ptacek, 84, of Britt, died on Thursday, June 16, 2005, at the Hospice of North Iowa in Mason City.

A funeral Mass was held on Monday, June 20, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt, with the Rev. Jerry Blake officiating. Interment was in the St. John Cemetery, Duncan. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Chapel of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Ileene, the daughter of Bernard and Caroline Lang Kunkel, was born on June 7, 1921 in St. Benedict. She was raised on the family farm along with her 14 siblings. As a young child, Ileene attended parochial school at the St. Benedict Catholic School.

Ileene was united in marriage with Anton Ptacek on January 6, 1942 in St. Benedict. The couple made their home on a farm near Corwith where Ileene was a full time wife and homemaker. The family left the Corwith area in 1954, and moved to the Ptacek family farm south of Duncan. They resided there until 1959 when they moved into Britt.

Ileene was employed with the Nebraska Milk Packaging Company in Britt until it was closed, she then went to work at Winnebago Industries in Forest City until 1986 when she retired. Following her retirement, she enjoyed playing cards, knitting, reading and making crafts. She also enjoyed playing bingo and volunteering for the residents at the local care center.

She was a member of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt and the Rosary Society. Ileene was also a member of a birthday club and knitting group.

Survivors include three daughters, Sondra Schleuger and her husband, Darold of Forest City, Jan Farquhar and her husband, John of Klemme and Sharon Holck and her husband, Tom of Quincy, Illinois; eleven grandchildren, Cheryl Goll and her husband, Brian, Carol Kirschbaum and her husband, Mike, Carla Campbell, Curt Schleuger and his wife, Gina, Tracy Potbury and her husband, Philip, Tony Raw and his wife, Jennifer, Tammy Bigwood and her husband, Steve, Ryan Holck, Steve Holck, Kevin Holck and Ian Holck; 14 great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are nine brothers and sisters, George Kunkel and his wife, Evelyn, Kathleen Becker, Rita Frankl and her husband, Gerald, Bernard Kunkel and his wife, Elsie, Virgil Kunkel, Omer Kunkel and his wife, Margaret, Conrad Kunkel and his wife, Rosella, Edna Ziemet, Rose Marie Schiltz and her husband, Ed; and numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Anton in 1991; two sisters, Veronica Spangler and Jean Marie Kunkel; three brothers, James, Robert and Clarence Dean; and son-in-law, Bill Raw.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Robert DeWaard, 1944-2005

June 22, 2005

Robert D. DeWaard, 61, of Woden, died on Thursday, June 16, 2005, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 20, at the Woden Christian Reformed Church south of Woden, with the Rev. Kevin Jordan officiating. Music was provided by organist, Marjorie Harringa who accompanied congregational hymns. Special music was provided by a men's quartet.

Casket bearers were Scott Mouw, Todd Mouw, Jay Regnerus, Steve Regnerus, Kevin DeWaard and Grant Whiteley. Burial was in the church cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home of Woden was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.

Robert Dean DeWaard, the son of Adrian and Ruth (Meyer) DeWaard, was born on January 13, 1944 at Wesley. He was baptized and confirmed at the Woden Christian Reformed Church. He attended the rural schools of Bingham and Grant Townships in Hancock County and graduated from the Woden-Crystal Lake High School in 1962. He continued his education at Dordt College.

He taught school at the Colton Christian School in Colton, South Dakota and also did some painting and janitorial work. He enjoyed fishing and playing basketball and baseball.

Bob is survived by his mother, Ruth DeWaard of Woden; two sons, Dale DeWaard and wife, Kelly of Lincoln, Nebraska and Jon DeWaard of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; three grandchildren, Amber and Grant Whiteley and Peyton DeWaard; a great-granddaughter, Adrianna Kersey; two sisters, Lois Mouw and husband, Roger of Colton, South Dakota and Carol Regnerus and husband, Gary of Orange City; a brother, Don DeWaard and wife, Jean of Pella; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Adrian in 1979.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Ruth Neuberger To Celebrate 103rd Birthday

June 22, 2005

Concord Care Center resident, Ruth Neuberger will celebrate her 103rd birthday on Sunday, June 26, 2005. Ruth was born east of Klemme in a family of nine children and is now the last of those children.

Ruth has been a resident of the Concord Care Center since May of 1997. In her younger days, Ruth worked at Wilson's Drugstore, Thada's Grocery Store and Kluckhohn's Grocery Store in Klemme. Later she worked at the Concord Care Center in Garner and the Garner Bakery. Ruth loved gardening and was known for her lovely flower gardens.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Leo W. Barkema, 1927-2005

July 13, 2005

Leo W. Barkema, 83, of Belmond, died on Saturday, June 18, 2005, at the Belmond Care Center, Belmond.

Graveside memorial services will be held at a later date in the Amsterdam Cemetery in Goodell. The Major Erickson Funeral Home of Mason City is in charge of the arrangements.

Leo Barkema, was born on June 27, 1921 in rural Goodell. He was the son of Hauko and Grace (Lieuwen) Barkema. He attended school in Goodell and served his country in the United States Army, achieving the rank of corporal.

Leo was united in marriage to Noreen McMahon on November 21, 1942 in Belmond. They moved to Mason City in 1961. He worked for the Iowa Department of Transportation for 36 years in the maintenance department. He traveled extensively and made many trips to Northern Minnesota to fish. He also enjoyed golfing.

Survivors include his wife, Noreen Barkema of Belmond; brothers, Harvey Barkema and wife, Irene of Forest City and Mervin Barkema and wife, Irene of Klemme; sisters, Marvel Stadtlander of Sheffield and Jean Ostendorf of Klemme; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Theodore and Leland.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Dewie Schultz Gibbs, 1918-2005

June 29, 2005

Dewie H. Gibbs, 86, of Garner, died on Tuesday, June 21, 2005, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 24, at the United Methodist Church in Garner, with the Rev. David Wagner officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied soloist, Warren Torkelson and congregational hymns. Ushers were Marvin and Maynard Schoneman.

Casket bearers were Scott VanDusseldorp, Ray Ryerson, John Strange, Arlyn Askildson, Gary Schisel and Darl Schmidt. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery in Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the Hospice of North Iowa.

Dewie Harriet Schultz Gibbs, the daughter of Halvor and Josephine (Beckjordan) Halvorson, was born on November 13, 1918 at Leland. She was baptized and confirmed at the Winnebago Lutheran Church northeast of Leland. Dewie attended the rural schools near Leland. When she was six years old her father died and she and her siblings helped her mother on the farm.

On January 7, 1939, she was married to Joe Virgil Schultz at the Methodist Parsonage in Klemme. They lived in Forest City until 1948, when they moved to Garner, where she did some baby sitting and worked at several cafes in town. She also worked for the Garner-Hayfield School District in the lunch program and later at Concord Care Center until she retired at the age of 67. On December 31, 1990 her husband, Joe died.

On April 9, 1994, she married Asa Gibbs at the United Methodist Church in Garner. In August of 2004, they moved to the Cardinal Grove Assisted Living in Garner. The past few months Dewie resided at the Concord Care Center. She enjoyed her family, gardening, playing cards, working puzzles, reading, fishing and going to garage sales. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and the UMW's Ruth Circle.

Dewie is survived by her husband, Asa of Garner; children, Judy Wetterling and fiancée, Ray Ryerson of Garner, Susan Strange and husband, John of Azle, Texas and Tom Schultz and wife, Julia of Garner; a step-son, Joe Gibbs and wife, Kathy of Garner; grandchildren, Jim Wetterling of Garner, Debra (Brian) Morel of Watagua, Texas, Kim Gibson of Fort Worth, Texas, Ron (Ellen) Wetterling of Parker, Colorado, Tracy (Justin) Klimisch of Galveston, Texas, Angie (Scott) VanDusseldorp of Garner, Joe Schultz of Garner, Tara Schultz of Garner, Heather Ross of Azle, Texas, Marisa Gibson of Azle, Texas; step-grandchildren, Pam Hrubes of Chanhassen, Minnesota, Dan (Carol) Hrubes of Ankeny, Melissa (Bob) Oborny of Ankeny and Joe Gibbs Jr. of Mason City; ten great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; a sister, Pearl Peters of Forest City; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Joe on December 31, 1990; her parents; son, Gary on November 19, 1976; sisters, Lillian, Bella, Amy and Florence; and a brother, Menford.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Tammy L. Fallon, 1963-2005

June 29, 2005

Tammy Lynn (Heller) Fallon, 41, of Sweaberg, Nebraska, and formerly of Crystal Lake, died on Wednesday, June 22, 2005, as the result of a motorcycle accident.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 25, at the Ewing-Dugger Funeral Chapel in Britt, with Janelle Siffring AiM, officiating.

Tammy Lynn Fallon, was born on December 18, 1963 in Osage. She was the youngest of six children to Kenneth Heller and Lois (Jennings) Thomas. She attended grade school at Lincoln Elementary in Osage.

In 1973, she moved to Des Moines with her mother, Lois and step-father, Charles Thomas. She continued her schooling at Lincoln High School in Des Moines.

She was married to Kirk Welch of Des Moines and was blessed with a daughter, Courtney Welch and a son, Charles Welch. She worked in the Britt area for Armour and Con-Agra and later moved to the Nebraska area. She held various jobs in her life time and loved working with people wherever she went.

Tammy was a friend to all that she met and had such a big heart. Some of her most special times were spent with her family at the holidays. She was known for her cooking, her love of animals, riding motorcycles, singing, and kids.

She had many children that called her Mom and Aunt Tammy, with whom she had so much joy sharing in their lives. She will be missed by all the friends she has made over her life time, but especially by her children and family.

She is survived by her children, Courtney Welch of Clear Lake and Charles (Chuck) Welch of Crystal Lake; her mother, Lois Thomas of Crystal Lake; one brother, Ken (Rebecca) Heller of Tallahassee, Florida; and three sisters, Cindy (Duane) Caroon of Hibbing, Minnesota, Anne (Greg) Brandt of Woden and Sandy (Matt) Wiesen of Raleigh, North Carolina; her special friend, Charles Fallon of Sweaburg, Nebraska; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her step-father, Charles Thomas; her father, Kenneth Heller; and an infant sister, Patty Heller.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Mildred Anderson, 1911-2005

July 6, 2005

Mildred Anderson, 94, of Britt, died on Sunday, June 26, 2005, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 29, at the Evangelical Free Church in Britt. The Rev. Stan Johnson officiated. Music was provided by organist, Mrs. Dwight Anderson who accompanied soloist, Jay Burgardt and a congregational hymn.

Casket bearers were Chuck Anderson, Kurt Harle, Don Anderson, Ned Harle, Mary Beth Etherington and Alan Steiff. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. The funeral services were under the direction of the Ewing-Dugger Funeral Chapel, Britt.

Mildred Marie Anderson, was born on June 21,1911, on the family farm in Orthel Township in Hancock County. She was the eldest of eight children born to Henry and Charsty (Munson) Anderson. She attended country schools in Orthel Township. She graduated from the Britt High School in 1928 and from Britt Junior College in 1930. Following graduation, she taught country school at the Orthel Township School for ten years and was a teacher to two of her sisters, Blanche and Marlys.

After teaching for ten years, she decided to enter the nursing profession. She attended nurse's training at the Kahler School of Nursing in Rochester, Minnesota and graduated in 1943. She worked in surgery at the Kahler Hospital for three years. She was a head nurse in the operating room and worked some with Dr. Chuck Mayo. She also worked for the Mayo Clinic Blood Bank and then moved to Dubuque where she worked for the clinic for three years.

She moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1951 where she worked in a doctor's office and surgery for 18 years and later worked in the hospital for eight years. Mildred retired in 1977 and returned to Britt.

Mildred enjoyed both teaching and nursing and was very good at both. She was a member of the Evangelical Free Church in Britt and a very devout Christian. She taught Sunday School at the Second Baptist Church in Little Rock for many years and made it a point to read her Bible through each year.

Survivors include four sisters, Florence Carlson and her husband, Lowell of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Hazel Larson of Garner, Blanche Friedow and her husband, Verlyn of Kanawha, Marlys Bergstrom and her husband, Don of Minneapolis; brother, Norman Anderson and his wife, Ruth of Peoria, Illinois; sister-in-law, Bettie Anderson of Britt; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Donald Anderson; sister, Charoltte Hunsley; nephew, Tom Anderson; and four brothers-in-law, Harvey Steiff, Morton Larson, Lee Hunsley and Herman Harle.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Ruth Neuberger, 1902-2005

July 6, 2005

Ruth Matilda Neuberger, age 103, a resident of the Concord Care Center, Garner, died on Monday, June 27, 2005, at the Concord Care Center in Garner, where she had resided for many years.

Funeral services were held on Friday, July 1, at the Klemme United Methodist Church, Klemme. The Rev. Paddy Druhl officiated. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Andrews Funeral Home, Klemme was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials are suggested to the Hospice of North Iowa, Klemme United Methodist Church or to the donor's choice.

Ruth M. Neuberger, the daughter of John and Marie (Yahnke) Neuberger, was born on June 26, 1902, on her parents' farm east of Klemme in a family of nine children. She attended rural school in Hancock County where she graduated from the 8th grade. As a young lady, Ruth began her life long devotion to her family. She helped raise her brother, Merlin.

Ruth was always willing to put the needs of others before those of her own. She was a diligent, hardworking, and independent lady who wasn't afraid to help out with various chores. For most of her working life she was employed in retail sales. She worked at Wilson's Drug Store, Larson's Store, Thada's Grocery Store and Kluckhohn's Grocery Store in Klemme. Ruth also worked for periods of time at the Garner and Clear Lake bakeries. She was a cook at the Concord Care Center.

Ruth loved gardening and will be remembered for her beautiful flowers. Her morning coffee was her time of relaxation, as was time spent writing stories about everyday life happenings. She was a meticulous housekeeper. She was a member of the Klemme United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her sister-in-law, Betty Neuberger of Klemme; and brother-in-law, Asa Gibbs of Garner.

Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews, including Leo (Dixie) Blumer of Etowah, North Carolina, Ivan (Bonnie) Blumer of Omaha, Nebraska, Mary Ann (Luverne) Schmidt of Klemme, Marlene (Cecil) Jacobs of Woodbury, Minnesota, Marie (Paul) Jurgens of Latimer, Bill (Madonna) Neuberger of Klemme, David (Judy) Neuberger of Garner, Marna (Elwyn) Herman of Brownsville, Texas, Marlys (Guy) Luscombe of Klemme, Margaret Parrott of Cedar Falls, Marilyn Cox of Des Moines, Marcia (Mike) Evans of Thompson, Marcia Garrett of Austin Texas, John William (Barbara) Neuberger of Denton, Texas, Dean Neuberger of Aplington, Marolee Neuberger of Michigan, Brad (Dana) Neuberger of Lee's Summit, Missouri and Joe (Kathy) Gibbs of Garner. Also numerous great and great-great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Mae, Faye, Margaret, Clarence, Walter, John, William and Merlin; niece, Margie (Ray) Wille; and nephew, Glenn (Darlene) Blumer.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Robert D. Reibsamen, 1931-2005

July 6, 2005

Former Hancock County Supervisor and Mayor of Corwith, Robert Dale Reibsamen of Corwith, died on Tuesday, June 28, 2005, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt. He was 74.

A funeral Mass was held on Saturday, July 2, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt. The Rev. Jerry Blake officiated. Paul Daniels was the lector. Music was provided by organist, Kristi Hejlik who accompanied soloist, Diane Nall. Honorary casket bearers were Dick Ludwig, Bill Ludwig, Dave Ludwig, Robert Shipman, Bob Berte and Gene Dornbier.

Casket bearers were Ray Ludwig, Allen Ludwig, Jim Ludwig, Lance Ludwig, Steve Ludwig and Thomas Shipman. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery in Britt. Funeral services were under the direction of the Ewing Funeral Home, Britt.

Bob Reibsamen, was born on March 15, 1931 in Britt. He was the son of Forest and Fern (Fillenwarth) Reibsamen. Bob was a graduate of the Britt High School, Britt Junior College and the Wisconsin School of Banking.

Bob married LaDonna Glieden of LuVerne at the Livermore Catholic Church on June 29, 1950. They resided in Corwith and raised a wonderful family of four children.

Bob worked in the Corwith State Bank for 46 years, where he performed many roles including Director and Vice-President. In addition to working at the bank, Bob also left his mark in Corwith serving as an avid volunteer. One of his most prominent volunteer efforts was his 46 years as a Corwith Firemen, 15 of which he served as the Corwith Fire Chief. Additionally, he was a volunteer EMT for WHAS for 15 years. During that time period, Bob was the initiator of the Emergency Satellite program in Corwith. Bob served two terms as Corwith Mayor and numerous terms as a city councilman.

Bob's services expanded beyond Corwith and into all of Hancock County. He served as Hancock County Supervisor for two terms, on the Hancock County Compensation Board, the County Board of Health and on the Economic Development Board of Directors.

At the state level, Bob's recent volunteer services included serving for the Elderbridge Agency on Aging and the State OIL (Older Iowan's Legislature). He was a member of the Hancock County Republican Central Committee and served as Secretary of the Britt Alumni Association for the past 15 years.

As a result of his many years of volunteer efforts, Bob received numerous awards including; 1990 Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame, Iowa Governor's Leadership Award and the Britt Alumnus of the Year.

Bob will be remembered as the Corwith Santa Claus who delivered Salvation Army care packages to the young and old, or for the Boy Scout Leader who took his family and troops to the Philmont Boy Scout Camp in Cimmeron, New Mexico, both of which he did for many decades.

In his spare time he enjoyed spending time outdoors, "Reibo" enjoyed fishing trips to Canada, bird watching, hunting, spending time with his family, playing with his dog, Astro, learning the newest technologies and a good cigar.

Survivors include his wife, LaDonna of Corwith; four children, including two sons, Cary and wife, Nicole Reibsamen of Cayucos, California and Tom and wife, Elaine Reibsamen of Hollister, California; two daughters, Kathie and husband, Bob Kittel of Long Beach, California and Susan and husband, David Weiland of Britt; three grandchildren, Candace and husband, Paul Daniels of Parkersburg, Hans Kittel and Heidi Kittel, both of Long Beach, California; five step-grandchildren, Michael and Marsan McCoy, Diane and husband, Anthony Devera, Lisa and husband, Robert Netzeley and Gina Caianiello, all of California: two great-grandchildren; and two step-great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are one brother, Bill and wife, Betty Reibsamen of Hampton; one sister, Janet West of Forest City; one sister-in-law, Lucille and husband, Charles Hall of Colorado Springs, Colorado; one brother-in-law, Raymond Domek of Emmetsburg; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Forest and Fern Reibsamen.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005