North Central Iowa
Genealogical Society
Box 237
Mason City, Iowa 50402-0237

Obituary Archive

Hancock County

Garner Leader
Garner IA
50438-1236

Britt News Tribune
Box 28,
42 Center Street West
Britt, IA
50423-1655
Kanawha Reporter

P.O. Box 190
Kanawha, IA
50447


Keystroke Ctrl F is a page search tool
Ideas to help you power search this obituary archive

The NCIGS Hancock County Archive



Alan W. Smith, 1952-2006

January 4, 2006

Alan W. Smith, 53, of Garner, died on Sunday, January 1, 2006, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a m., on Wednesday, January 4, at the United Methodist Church in Garner with the Rev. David Wagner officiating. Music will be provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who will accompany soloist, Doug Hayes and congregational hymns. Ushers will be Marvin and Maynard Schoneman.

Honorary bearers will be Ron Smith, Mark Huling, Ken Cline, Don Kammrad, Dr. Peter Vidal, Neil Fell, Tim Schmidt, Tom Schultz, Scott Seelhammer, the Garner Rotary Club, the Bethel Masonic Lodge No. 319 and El Kahir Shrine. Interment will be in the Concord Township Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church. The Cataldo Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Alan Wayne Smith, the son of Ronald Everett and Mildred (Thornton) Smith, was born May 24, 1952 at Mason City. He graduated from the Garner-Hayfield High School in 1970. He attended Central College in Pella where he received his BA degree in secondary education in 1974. While in college he spent a semester at the World Campus Afloat, touring around the world.

Al owned and operated Our Own Hardware in Lake Mills from 1974 until 1987. He moved to Las Vegas in 1988, where he was a sales manager at an appliance warehouse for 13 years. He returned to Garner in September of 2001 and commented that the best move he ever made was moving back to Garner. He loved attending sporting events of his nieces and nephews, traveling and dogs.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Garner, the Garner Rotary Club, the Bethel Masonic Lodge No. 319 in Garner and the El Kahir Shrine in Cedar Rapids.

Al is survived by his mother, Mildred Smith, of Garner; sister, Cheryll (Duane) Toppin of Ankeny; brother, Lynn (Kathy) Smith of Garner; nieces and nephews, Heather Toppin, Robin Toppin, Ronald Smith, Taylor Smith, James Aberg, Bethany Aberg and Emberly Aberg; a great-niece, Laura Rose Toppin; and his dog, Maya.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald E. Smith on October 8, 1981; his maternal grandparents, Monte and Lois Creekmore; paternal grandparents, Walter and Mildred Smith; and twin nieces.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Florence Bird, 1920-2006

January 11, 2006

Florence Bird, 85, of Britt, died on Monday, January 2, 2006, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Services were held on Thursday, January 5, at the Zion Church of the Nazarene, Britt. The Rev. Ron McKee officiated. Music was provided by organist, Beverly Meyers who accompanied soloist, Bruce Halverson. Duane Logemann and Lyle Meyers ushered.

Honorary casketbearers were Jolene Duffy, Leslie Christensen, Annie Smidt, Bernice Larson, Pam Pritchard, Della Pommer, Phyllis Janes, Lillian Love, Clara Kwolek and Ella Janes. Casket bearers were Scott Haag, Aaron Bird, Andrew Bird, Adam Bird, Nathan Christensen and Chris Duffy. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Florence Bird, the daughter of Engle and Jessie Schutjer VanDusseldorp, was born on March 27, 1920, in Orthel Township where she grew up and received her education. She worked for various families as a hired girl.

She married Kenneth Bird on November 16, 1940. She worked at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital and the Westview Care Center. Florence was employed at Snap-On. She retired in 1985. After retiring, she babysat for various families and house sat for elderly women.

Florence enjoyed crocheting and embroidering along with quilting, as she made quilts for her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed her flowers, sewing and refinishing furniture. She enjoyed traveling and going to visit family and friends.

She was a member of the Zion Nazarene Church, Rebekah Lodge, V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary, Britt Senior Citizens and the Hospital Auxiliary.

Florence is survived by one son, Ken Bird and his wife, Diane of Britt; two daughters, Sally and her husband, Bob Haag of Algona, Etta and her husband, Dave Mull of Forest City; seven grandchildren, Scott Haag and his wife, Jennifer of Irvington, Jolene Duffy and her husband, Chris of Olathe, Kansas, Leslie Christensen of Overland Park, Kansas, Nathan Christensen of Olathe, Kansas, Aaron Bird of Webster City, Adam Bird and his wife, Molly of Hampton, Andrew Bird of Independence; and seven great-grandchildren, Amanda Claussen, Jacob.

Also surviving are a special niece, Connie and her husband, Ervin Tegtmeyer of Woden; son-in-law, Wayne Christensen and his wife, Nancy of Aurora, Colorado; sister-in-law, Nona VanDusseldorp of Britt; along with nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth in 1978; daughter, Karen in 1994; parents; step-mother, Lillie VanDusseldorp; sister, Pearline and her husband, Merle Johnson; and two brothers, Melvin VanDusseldorp and Carl (Red) and his wife, Emma VanDusseldorp.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Aldora Tripp, 1919-2006

January 11, 2006

Aldora Tripp, 86, of Kanawha died on Wednesday, January 4, 2006, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 7, at the United Methodist Church in Kanawha with the Rev. Paddy Druhl officiating. Burial was in the Amsterdam Cemetery near Kanawha. The Ewing bugger Funeral Home of Kanawha was in charge of the arrangements.

Aldora, the daughter of Fred and Flossie Rood Soper was born November 1, 1919, in Dow City. She graduated from the Lucas High School in 1938.

On March 4, 1940, she married William Earl Tripp in Princeton, Missouri. The couple made their home south of Kanawha until 1942, when they moved to several Iowa towns. They returned to Kanawha in 1952.

Aldora began working at the cafe in Kanawha as a cook and dishwasher in 1958. She worked there for nearly 40 years before retiring. She enjoyed watching the birds, word searches and jigsaw puzzles and looked forward to attending annual family reunions. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Kanawha.

Aldora is survived by daughter, Janet Piper and her husband, Wayne of Des Moines; two sons, Vaughn Tripp and wife, Ellen of Starbuck, Minnesota and Richard Tripp and wife, Donna of Akron; eight grandchildren, Richard Green, Debbie Bracy, Dwana Eslinger, Dawn Peasley Bracy, Chad Tripp, Jason Tripp, Anthony Tripp and Joseph Tripp; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Also surviving are four sisters, Grace Chumbley, Vera Hupton, Alice Gracey, Nellie Critz; two brothers, John Soper and wife, Audrey and Bill Soper and wife, Charlotte; numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Earl in 1971; daughter, Marilynn in 1946; two sisters, Ruth King and Eula West; and two brothers, Lewis Soper and Wayne Soper.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



LaVonne M. Isebrand, 1940-2006

January 11, 2006

LaVonne M. Isebrand, 65, of Woden died on Saturday, January 7, 2006, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 10, at the First Presbyterian Church in Woden with the Rev. Glenn Wilson officiating. Music was provided by organist, Doris Leeck who accompanied soloist, Judy Junkermeier. Ushers were Leonard Leeck and David Snider.

Casket bearers were Ron Dahle, Paul Gerdes, Chris Hinders, Don Krull, Lyle Doege and Bruce Wubben. Burial was in the Bingham Township Cemetery, Woden. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden was in charge of the arrangements.

LaVonne Maxine Isebrand, the daughter of William Jacob and Ethel Mae (Hammond) Wood, was born December 24, 1940, at Woden. She was baptized and confirmed at the Methodist Church in Woden. She graduated from the Woden High School in 1958. After graduation she worked at the Credit Bureau in Mason City and at Dr. Soderling's dental office in Forest City.

On July 11, 1959, she was married to Donald Henry Isebrand at the Methodist Church in Woden. They lived in Woden where they raised their family and owned and operated Isebrand Hardware. She also assisted with visitations at the Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden for many years.

LaVonne enjoyed her family, grandchildren and church. Don and LaVonne's home was the meeting place when all of her brothers and sisters were home for a visit. LaVonne also enjoyed annual fishing trips to Minnesota with the extended family.

She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Ladies Aid and was a Church Elder. She belonged to the Woden Commercial Club, HCMH Auxiliary in Britt, and served on the Woden Library Board.

Survivors include her husband of 46 years, Don of Woden; daughter, Lisa (Tim) Weiland of Britt and their sons, Nathan and Adam; son, Michael (Kim) Isebrand of Forest City and their son, Alex; sisters and brothers, Lois Hanna of Woden, Lorraine Naser of New Richmond, Wisconsin, Don (Ardith) Wood of Mason City, Leona Chestnut of Nixa, Missouri, William A. (Faith) Wood of Richfield, Minnesota, Eugene (Hazel) Wood of Garner, Lola Wittmeier of Fort Dodge, Larry (Betty) Wood of Woden, LaDonna (Don) Gigler of Columbia, Missouri and Linda (Ken) DeWaard of Britt; a sister-in-law, Sharon (Beryl) Buffington of Britt; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Richard; brothers-in-law, Alvin Hanna, Gary Wittmeier, Chuck Chestnut and Wayne Naser; an infant niece, Valerie Jo Wood; and a nephew, Gary Naser.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Shirley A. Ryburn, 1931-2006

January 18, 2006

Shirley A. Ryburn, of Britt, died on Sunday, January 8, 2006, at the Westview Care Center, Britt. She was 74.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 11, at the United Methodist Church in Britt with the Rev. Robert Dodge officiating. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Shirley Ann Hoover, the daughter of Robert and Helen (Perkins) Hoover, was born May 19, 1931, at Algona. She graduated from the Britt High School in 1948.

On May 22, 1949, she was married to James M. Ryburn, Jr. at Stilson. They farmed northwest of Britt until 1965 when they moved into Britt. Shirley worked at various jobs in Britt, including driving bus and helping as a home health care aid. She enjoyed visiting with people, collecting squirrels, figurines, gardening, cooking and, especially, spending time with her family.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Britt, UMW, Rebekah Lodge and the American Legion Auxiliary.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 56 years, Jim of Britt; five children and their families, Robert Ryburn of California and his twin daughters, Maribell and Frances, Cindy (Ted) Kopacek of Maple Grove, Minnesota, and their daughter, Heidi, Mark Ryburn of Hudson, Wisconsin, and his daughter, Desirae and her baby due in May, Christy (Darryl) Dehn of Maple Grove, Minnesota, and their two sons, A.J. and Tyler and Chad (Christi) Ryburn of New Prague, Minnesota, and their five children, Julianna, James, Rebecca, Matthew and a baby due in May; and a sister, Jackie (Paul) MacVey of Ames.

She was preceded in death by her parents.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Marjorie L. Lemke, 1927-2006

January 18, 2006

Marjorie L. Lemke, 78, of Garner, formerly of Klemme, died on Friday, January 13, 2006, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 16, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ in Klemme with the Rev. Donna Buckman officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied congregational hymns. Ushers were Rob Lau and Jamie Schmidt.

Honorary bearers were Emily White, Amanda Rohlf, Rebecca Lemke, Edward Greiman and Angela Homann. Casket bearers were Neal Suntken, Adam Suntken, Joel Rohlf, Brandon Stromer, Joshua Lemke and Matt Greiman. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be given to the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ in Klemme or to the donor's choice.

Marjorie Lorraine Lemke, the daughter of John D. and Lottie (Reikens) Meinders, was born October 22, 1927, at Goodell. She attended the rural schools of Ell Township until the eighth grade and graduated from the Klemme High School in 1945.

On February 1, 1948, she was married to Laurice Allen Lemke at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ in Klemme. They farmed west of Klemme until 1992 when they retired and moved into Klemme. In 2004, they moved into Garner. Marjorie enjoyed spending time with her family, church, sewing and quilt making.

She was a member of the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ in Klemme where she had served as church secretary, taught Sunday School, sang in the church choir and was active in Women's Fellowship and Dorcas. Marjorie also was a 4-H Leader for many years.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Laurice of Garner; four children, Gwen (Byron) Suntken of Meservey, Paige (Dave) Rohlf of Altoona, Lynn (Valerie) Lemke of Olathe, Kansas and Michele (Stan) Greiman of Garner; grandchildren, Neal (Kim) Suntken, Adam (Sandy) Suntken, Emily (Verlyn) White, Joel Rohlf, Amanda Rohlf, Joshua Lemke, Rebecca Lemke and Brandon Stromer; step-grandchildren, Edward (Cindy) Greiman, Angela (David) Homann and Matthew (Angela) Greiman; great-grandchildren, Erin Suntken, Abbie Suntken and Jake Suntken; step-great-grandchildren, David King, Nick King, Andrea White, Cameron White, Blaize White, Taylor Homann, Joshua Homann, Reid Homann, Grace Greiman and Shelby Greiman.

Survivors also include three sisters, Marie Nuehring of Marion, Gladys Jurgemeyer of Garner and Mildred (Duard) Lewis of Tonto Basin, Arizona; a sister-in-law, Lavonne Hain of Mason City; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son-in-law, Doug Stromer; sister, Vergie Josten; and a brother, Elmer Meinders.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Minnie Mennenga, 1911-2006

January 25, 2006

Minnie Mennenga, of Belmond, died on Saturday, January 14, 2006, at the Belmond Medical Center Hospice Unit. She was 94.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 18, at the Immanuel Reformed Church, Belmond. The Rev. Rob Ford officiated. Burial was in the Immanuel Reformed Church Cemetery. The Andrews Funeral Home of Belmond was in charge of the arrangements.

Minnie Mennenga was born July 30, 1911, to Dick and Elizabeth (Kuper) Pals, on a farm east of Belmond. She attended country school through the eighth grade. She worked out of the home as a housekeeper for other area families for a number of years.

On March 5, 1936, she married Carl Mennenga at the Immanuel Reformed Church parsonage. They farmed 37 years east of Belmond, retired and moved to Belmond in 1973. The couple had five children.

Minnie was an active member of the Immanuel Reformed Church, where she taught Catechism and was a member of the Ladies' Guild. She was a member of the Senior Citizens and the Over 60's Club. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, embroidery, and playing cards with family and friends. She and Carl enjoyed fishing in Minnesota several times a year.

Survivors include her daughters, Carol (William) Lockett of Belmond and Velda (Gary) Steenblock of Kanawha; a son, Douglas (Diana) Mennenga of Clemmons, North Carolina; ten grandchildren, Kim (Jon) Gifford, Karleen (Mike) Fournier, Karmen (Josh Maros) Dahl, Kristen (Ken) Paxton, Annette (Mark) Greenwood, Dawn (Jon) Eckhoff, Lisa (Mike) Ver Helst, Kevin (Shery) Steenblock, Tammy (Bill) Freerks, and Todd (Dawn) Mennenga; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Survivors also include four step-grandchildren, Tony Bonjour, Racheal (Chad) Olson, Brandon Bonjour, and Whitney Bonjour; four step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Carl in 1998; daughters, Betty Wenzel and an infant daughter; a great-granddaughter, Morgan; six sisters and five brothers.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Herbert W.H. Schubert, 1915 - 2006

February 1, 2006
 
Herbert Schubert, 90, of Garner, died on Wednesday, January 18, 2006, at the Hospice of the Valley in Tempe, Arizona.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 28th, at 10:30 a.m., at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner with the Rev. Dale Glawatz officiating. Music will be provided by organist, Mary Kopacek with special music by Jim Bussert and Russell Schubert.  Ushering will be Harlan Block and Earl Jaspersen. Burial will be in the Crystal Township Cemetery, Crystal Lake, with military rites by the Crystal Lake Veterans Ceremonial Unit.

Honorary bearers will be Doug Buss, Brian Sorenson, Larry Sorenson and Jimmy Sorenson. Casket bearers will be Bob Navratil, Harlan Baack, Larry Schubert, Jeff Schubert, Greg Greiman and Duane Hutchinson.

Herbert W. H. Schubert, the first child of Wilhelm and Dorothea (Lau) Schubert, was born August 1, 1915, on a farm northeast of Britt. He was baptized and confirmed at the First Lutheran Church in Britt. Herb attended country school at Britt No. 5 through the 8th grade and graduated from the Britt High School in 1935. He continued his education at the Britt Junior College for one semester. Herb then worked for various farmers in the Britt area and in 1936 did road work for Harry Riehm.

On April 16, 1941, he married his teenage sweetheart, Ruth Sorenson at the Methodist Church in Crystal Lake. Their resultant family and friends were to become the primary source of pride and joy throughout their lives. Herb joined the Army Air Corps in 1942 and was stationed at Douglas, Arizona. He served in the South Pacific during WW II on New Guinea and Okinawa. He was in the 89th Squadron, 3rd Bomber Attack Group, 5th Air Force, and worked on A20 and B25 airplanes. He was honorably discharged in 1946 after attaining a Sargeant-750 rating and 747 mechanical rating. After the war, he worked as a Hancock County equipment operator at the Garner Roller Mills and did road work for three construction companies. He was also a Surge dealer for 6 years. He then worked for Urich Implement in Garner and for Sorenson Hardware in Crystal Lake. His last employment years were spent working construction for Maudlin, Weaver and Martin Marietta. He retired in 1983 at the age of 70.

He was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church, was a charter member of the Garner Jr. Chamber of Commerce and a life member of the Garner VFW and the Crystal Lake American Legion.

Herb is survived by his children, Roland (Pam) Schubert of St. Ansgar, Althea (Jim) Bussert of Mesa, Arizona and Mark Schubert of Miami, Florida; grandchildren, Del (Carol) Schubert, Sana (Mike) Iverson, Shelli Schubert, David (Helen) Schubert and Kaila Bussert and husband, Ziad Fahmy; great-grandchildren, Abby and Garrett Schubert and Emily Iverson; two sisters, Alida Baack and Norma Navratil; a brother, Walter Schubert; sisters-in-law, Janice Schubert, Juanita Schubert, Wilma, Genevieve, Marjorie and Leona (Kenneth) Sorenson, Doryce Hanna, Dottie (Gary) Brown, Paulette (Ron) Dahl, and Beth Barnum; brothers-in-law, Lee Duss and Laverne Holtorf; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth in 1997; parents; sister, Lena Duss; brothers, Wilbert and Ewalt Schubert; brothers-in-law, Howard Baack, Louis Navratil, Harlan, Russell, Calvin and Morris Sorenson, Mervin Otis and Bruce Hanna; and sisters-in-law, Evelyn Schubert, Lois Otis, Marvella Holtorf and Jerry Sorenson.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Martha Riggle, 1921-2006

February 1, 2006

Martha Riggle, of Crystal Lake, died on Friday, January 20, 2006, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt. She was 84.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 24, at the United Methodist Church of Crystal Lake. The Rev. Charles Wallace officiated. Music was provided by Anita Eden, who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and congregational hymns. Honorary casket bearers were Galen Wooge, Jim Steffen and Vern Hockett.

Casket bearers were Pete Leuwerke, Lynn Wooge, Lyle Doege, Dennis Zuehl, Jerry Wilson, John Seim, Vernon Hansmeier and Marvin Haugland. Burial was in the Crystal Lake Cemetery, Crystal Lake. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Martha Riggle, the daughter of Emmanuel and Anna (Elgland) Monsen, was born September 28, 1921, in Winnebago County. She attended country schools until moving to Forest City to babysit for families.

On January 9, 1941, Martha married Ernest Riggle at the Grant Church in rural Winnebago County. The couple farmed in the Crystal Lake and Hayfield areas before moving to the home place near Crystal Lake, where they farmed for over 50 years.

Martha enjoyed baking, making numerous wedding cakes. She enjoyed helping with field work, gardening, crocheting, bowling, and going for a drive. She was a member of both TOPS and the Linden Ladies Club.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Ernest; along with numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Elsie Wilson, Gladys Meyer and Ann Jordan; and her brother, Martin Monsen. 
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Darlene R. Schmidt, 1932-2006

February 1, 2006

Darlene R. Schmidt, died suddenly at her home in Titonka, on Saturday, January 21, 2006. She was 73.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 26, at the Immanual Lutheran Church, rural Titonka. The Rev. Arlen Lloyd officiated. Music was provided by organist, Anita Eden who accompanied soloists, Bruce Wubben and Allan Post.

Honorary casket bearers were grandchildren, Jeffrey Schmidt, Ashley Formanek, Scott Schmidt and Chelsey Formanek. Interment will be at a later date in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery. The Oakcrest Funeral Home of Titonka was in charge of the arrangements.

Darlene Ruth Eimers was born on February 4, 1932, on a farm near Burt. She was the daughter of Emil and Adella Meyer Eimers. She received her education in Burt and graduated from the Burt High School. Darlene graduated from the American Institute of Business in Des Moines. After her schooling, she worked for a time at the General Store in Burt.

On February 8, 1953, Darlene was married to Wilfred L. "Whip" Schmidt at the St. John's Lutheran Church at Burt. The couple lived for a short time near Titonka, where Whip worked for Don Budlong. They moved to the home place near Woden and started farming. Darlene helped Whip on the farm and raised her family during this time. She also started working at the Titonka Care Center in the late 1980s, where she eventually became head of housekeeping. Whip and Darlene moved into Titonka in 1995.

Darlene was an active member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church near Titonka, where she belonged to various women's groups. Her husband, Whip preceded her in death on January 7, 2002.

Darlene enjoyed playing cards, golfing, gardening, cooking and bus trips to casinos. She also enjoyed shopping, quilting, attending flea markets and auctions, fishing and trapping with her grandson and watching church league softball. Her greatest pleasure was watching her grandchildren participate in their activities and spending time with friends and relatives.

Survivors include her son, Bob Schmidt of Woden; her daughter, Chris Formanek and husband, Randy of Garner; and four grandchildren, Jeffrey Schmidt, Ashley Formanek, Scott Schmidt and Chelsey Formanek.

Also surviving are four brothers, Ray Eimers and wife, LaVonne of Midway, Arkansas, Jerry Eimers and wife, Darlyn of Dike, Ervin "Shorty" Eimers and wife, Pat of Burt, Don Eimers and wife, Norma, Coon Rapids, Minnesota; and her sister-in-law, Inez Eimers of Storm Lake.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Whip on January 7, 2002; one brother, Everett and an infant sister, Irene.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Fern M. Tiggemann, 1935-2006

February 8, 2006

Former Klemme resident, Fern M. Tiggemann, of Mesa, Arizona, died on Thursday, January 23, 2006.

A joint graveside memorial service will be held in Klemme at a later date for Fern and her husband, Richard.

Fern Merrie (Krull) Tiggemann was born on March 6, 1935, in Algona. She graduated from the Burt High School and Hamilton Business College in Mason City. Fern was employed at the 1st National Bank in Mason City.

She married Richard Clarence Tiggemann on November 20, 1955. They made their home for a short time in Algona, then moved to Klemme. Fern helped run the Tiggemann Trucking business and feed store, also selling snowmobiles and yard tillers.

In 1992, Richard and Fern moved to Mesa, Arizona. Fern worked at the Christine Place Apartments in Mesa as a cook and housekeeper for elderly residents. In 1997 she quit working to take care of Richard, who had cancer and died in 2001.

Survivors include her daughter, Joan Marie Moss and husband Douglas of Maricopa, Arizona; sister, Ruth Bolie and husband, Dave of Thompson; sister, Joan Koestler and husband, Vern of Burt; sister-in-law, June Krull of Clear Lake; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fim and Edna Krull; husband, Richard Clarence Tiggemann, Sr.; a son, Richard Clarence Tiggemann, Jr.; sister, Leona Krull; brother, Louis Krull; and mother and father-in-laws, William and Martha Tiggemann.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Alice M. Rayhons, 1923-2006

February 1, 2006

Alice M. Meints RayhonsAlice M. Meints Rayhons, 82, of Garner, died on Thursday, January 26, 2006, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 30, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner with the Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Lector was Donna Young. Altar server was Marvin Engstler. Music was provided by organist, Carolyn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Robert Kral and Lawrence Engstler.

Casket bearers were Randy Rayhons, Scott Rayhons, Brad Pletcher, Paul Young, Wayne Pals and Terry Meints. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the Hospice of North Iowa or the American Cancer Society.

Alice Mae Meints Rayhons, the daughter of John and Karin (Lynd) Rapp, was born May 31, 1923, at Britt. She attended school at Britt.

On February 22, 1941, she was married to Marvin Richard Meints at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ in Klemme. They lived in Klemme where Alice was a school cook for 15 years. Following the death of Marvin in 1978, she continued to live in Klemme.

On August 16, 1979, she was married to Leonard Rayhons at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner. They lived on a farm northwest of Garner for the next 25 years. Alice loved spending time with her family, friends and neighbors. She enjoyed baking, gardening, flowers, dancing and playing cards.

She was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner, Rosary Society and the Garner VFW Auxiliary.

Survivors include her children, Roger Meints of San Diego, California, Dick (Sheryl) Meints of Meservey and Kathleen (Mike) Embertson of Mason City; grandchildren, Ronald Meints and Robert (Jessica) Meints all of San Diego, California; four great-grandchildren; step-children, Marvin (Nancy) Rayhons of Garner and Jeanette (Allen) Upmeyer of Clinton; step-grandchildren Bonnie (Brian) Cataldo, Amy (Brian) Follmann, Cory (Jennifer) Upmeyer, Shane (Jennifer) Upmeyer and Darci (Jason) Reis; ten step-great-grandchildren.

Survivors also include a sister, Shirley Netland of Garner; a brother, Jack (Roz) Rapp of Caney, Kansas; half-sister, Mildred Hernon of Clear Lake; a brother-in-law, Alvin Nelson of Klemme; sisters-in-law, Esther Rapp of Garner and Cynthia Rapp of Bronson, Texas; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Marvin on March 18, 1978 and Leonard in 2004; a daughter-in-law, Mary Meints in 1994; sisters, Arlis Gilles, June Nelson, Bonnie Ruppert and Wanda Rapp in infancy; brothers, Harold, Dale and Calvin Rapp; half-sisters, Thelma Price, Elvera Welfing, Mavis Hiscocks and Evelyn Hanson; half-brothers, Milbern and Raymond Rapp.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Susan Berhow-Rivera, 1950-2006

February 1, 2006

Susan Ellen Berhow-RiveraSusan E. Berhow-Rivera, 55, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, died on Friday, January 27, 2006, at her home.

Memorial services were held on Tuesday, January 31, at the Cataldo Funeral Chapel in Garner with the Rev. David Wiersbe of the Evangelical Free Church in Clear Lake officiating. Music was provided by Jen Thoe and Kevin Hanson.

Honorary bearers were Jonathan Berhow-Rivera, Nelson Berhow-Rivera, Andrea Berhow-Rivera, Brandon Berhow-Goll, Dalton Berhow-Goll, Blair Berhow-Goll, Rockford Berhow, Natasha Berhow, Abraham Quintus, Samuel Quintus, Erin Fortin and Terra Bill.

Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery in Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Susan Ellen Berhow-Rivera, the daughter of John and Jane (Hare) Berhow, was born July 2, 1950, at Hampton. She attended school at Hampton until 1962 when she moved with her family to Garner. She graduated from the Garner-Hayfield High School in 1968 and continued her education at Greeley, Colorado, where she received her nursing degree.

On April 21, 1978, she was married to Nelson A. Rivera at New York, New York. They lived in New York, Fort Collins, Colorado, Garner and in November of 1986 moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Susan was employed as a registered nurse at the St. Paul United Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota, until ill health caused her to retire in August of 2004. She died at her home after battling breast cancer for the past several years.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, reading, singing and playing guitar. She was a member of the Minnesota Nurses Association.

Survivors include her husband, Nelson Rivera of Minneapolis, Minnesota; three children, Jonathan Berhow-Rivera of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Andrea Berhow-Rivera of Eagan, Minnesota and Nelson Berhow-Rivera of Minneapolis, Minnesota; three grandchildren, Molly Berhow-Swanberg, Mikaella Berhow-Rivera and Taylor Jonathan Berhow-Rivera.

Survivors also include three sisters, Sandra (Steven) Quintus of Garner, Christine (Bill) Greiman of Klemme and Jennifer (Kevin) Berhow-Hanson of Ventura; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Nancy on May 23, 1966.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Arlis H. Meyer, 1911-2006

February 1, 2006

Arlis H. MeyerArlis H. Meyer, 94, of Garner, died on Saturday, January 28, 2006, at the Heritage Care Center, Mason City.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 1, at 11:00 a.m., at the St. Paul Lutheran church in Garner with the Rev. Dale Glawatz officiating. Music will be provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who will accompany soloist, Lisa Albers and congregational hymns. Earl Jaspersen will usher.

Casket bearers will be Jeff Meyer, Brad Meyer, Russ Albers, Dawn Kaduce, Kelley Hammitt, Rick Hammitt and Ryan Albers. Burial will be in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church. The Cataldo Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Memorials preferred to the Hospice of North Iowa.

Arlis Helena Meyer, the daughter of Walter and Etta (Johnson) Geisler, was born January 31, 1911, at La Houge, Illinois. At the age of 4, she moved with her family to Iowa settling on a farm north of Clear Lake. She was baptized at the Garner Methodist Church in 1927. Arlis attended several rural schools and graduated from the Ventura High School.

On February 18, 1930, she was married to Alvin E. Meyer at Clear Lake. They lived on the Meyer homestead southeast of Garner until 1936, when they moved to a farm northwest of Ventura where they raised their family and farmed. They also raised turkeys for many years.

In 1956 they moved to their new home in Ventura, where Arlis continued her love of flowers, gardening and entertaining. In 1970 they moved to a smaller home in Clear Lake. They enjoyed traveling in their trailer and spent many winters in their mobile home in Mesa, Arizona.

Following the death of her husband in 1989, she moved to the Prairie View Apartments in Garner where she lived for the next 12 years. She enjoyed her family, working in the yard, flowers, crocheting, playing cards, pets and horses.

She was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner and was a former member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Ventura.

Arlis is survived by her five children, Alvin (Frances) Meyer. Jr. of Ventura, Jim (Jo) Meyer of Clear Lake, Mari (Carrol) Albers of Garner, Boni (Virgil) Pringnitz of Garner and Bob (Jan) Meyer of Mason City; 15 grandchildren, Cindy Dvorak, Jeff Meyer, Richard (Michele) Meyer, Candy Pitkin, Brad (Nancy) Meyer, Tim Meyer, Juli (Jim) Knapp, Russ (Jenny) Albers, Stefani (Hans) Griesser, Ryan (Lisa) Albers, Dawn (Al) Kaduce, Sue Pringnitz, Kim Frank, Kelley (Rick) Hammitt and Robi Meyer; 21 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Emery Geisler of Nora Springs; two sisters-in-law, June Geisler of Moline, Illinois and Lydia Schneider of Garner; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin; parents; an infant great-grandchild; two sisters, Myrtle Lemke and Dorothy Schmitt; and three brothers, Donald, Lyle and Warren Geisler.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Blanche D. Zeigler, 1955-2006

February 8, 2006

Blanche D. Zeigler, 50, of rural Corwith died on Tuesday, January 31, 2006, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 4, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Corwith with the Rev. Kay Wold officiating. Music was provided by organist, Helen Burrington who accompanied vocalists, Alice Shipman and Allyson Thompson and congregational hymns. Ushers were Dale and Richard Oberhelman.

Casket bearers were Dave Meyer, Darrel Weaver, Victor Weaver, Jason Tripp, Bruce Smidt, Derek Fortner and Mike Ohnemus. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Blanche Darlene Zeigler, the daughter of Weldon and Darlene (Benson) Weaver, was born March 22, 1955, at Webster City. She grew up in Eagle Grove where she was active in the local saddle club participating in the barrels, poles and other timed events. Blanche graduated from the Eagle Grove High School in 1974. Following graduation she was employed at the Eagle Grove Greenhouse.

On July 12, 1980, she was married to David James Zeigler at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Corwith. They lived on a farm east of Corwith all of their married life. Blanche enjoyed spending time with her husband, daughter and step-grandchildren. Her hobbies were gardening, planting flowers, camping, riding horses and boating. She enjoyed caring for her cats, dogs and other small pets. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Corwith.

Blanche is survived by her husband, David of Corwith; daughter, Angela Marie Zeigler of Humboldt; step-grandchildren, Zachary Kiefer and Destiny Fortner; brothers, Darrel Weaver of Webster City, Vic (Bertha) Weaver of Webster City; sisters, Mary (Carrol) Snyder of Adel, Carol Bachman and friend, Jack of Branson, Missouri and Patricia Weaver of Eagle Grove; an aunt, Dorothy Madison of Laurel, Nebraska; mother-in-law, Maxine Zeigler of Corwith; sisters-in-law, Nelda (Kelly) Jackson of Garner and Amber Willier of Nora Springs; a brother-in-law, Ronald Zeigler of Britt; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; father-in-law, Dale Zeigler; and nephew, Ryan Estes.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006



Lida A. Eenhuis, 1916-2005

February 8, 2006

Lida Augusta Eenhuis, 89, of Klemme, died on Tuesday, January 31, 2006, at the Concord Care Center in Garner.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 4, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman officiated. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Andrew Funeral Home of Klemme was in charge of the arrangements.

Lida A. Griffen was born on February 25, 1916, at Klemme, the daughter of Louis and Emma (Schlawin) Griffen. She attended Klemme schools and graduated from the Klemme High School. She worked at the Klemme Coop Grain Company for several years in addition to baby-sitting for various families.

Lida was united in marriage to John W. Eenhuis on November 9, 1939, at the Immanuel Reformed Church Parsonage. The couple farmed west of Klemme for many years. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in November of 1989.

Throughout her life, Lida received great joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren and other extended family. She loved to sew and taught many in her family how to sew. Lida was an excellent quilter.

She enjoyed gardening and was very active in her church during most of her life. She was a long time member of the Quilter's Guild and the ladies circle.

Survivors include her son, James and wife, Cindy Eenhuis of Covington, Georgia, and their children and grandchildren, Brain and Cindy Eenhuis and Taylor and Alexa, all of Melbourne, Florida. Bruce Eenhuis of Satellite Beach, Florida and Brad and Stephanie Eenhuis of Iowa City; daughter, Rosalie and husband, James Prescott, Klemme, and their children and grandchildren, Robert Prescott and Cody and Dylan, of Klemme, Jeffrey Prescott and Stephanie and Courtney of Klemme, and David and Kristy Prescott and Sheila, Skylar, and Dalton all of Hampton; daughter, Marilyn Roisum and husband, Robert of O'Fallon, Missouri and their children and grandchildren, Ronda and Jonathan Hicks and Olivia of Watauga, Texas, and Heather and D. J. Adams and Nathan and Savannah all of Tonganoxie, Kansas; also numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Lida was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John on June 27, 1994; a daughter, Elaine Stroud; an infant grandson, Johnathan Prescott; and two sisters, Gladys Olthoff and Mabel Griffen.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006

Community Project:

Volunteers maintain this archive by posting directly to the web from their home computers.