Arthur Gerzema
October 2, 1925-February 1, 2012

February 8, 2012

ACKLEY—Arthur Gerzema, 86, of Ackley, died on Wednesday, February 1, 2012, at the Presbyterian Village in Ackley.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 6, at the St. Peter’s UCC in rural Geneva, with burial in the church cemetery. The Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley, was in charge of the arrangements.

Arthur E. Gerzema, was born on October 2, 1925, on the family farm at Ackley, the son of Ebbel and Johanna (Ennen) Gerzema. Arthur went to school at Grant Center and was affiliated with the St. Peter’s UCC in rural Geneva. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, auctions, garage sales, bicycles and guns.

Arthur is survived by his sister, Lena Gerzema of Ackley; his brother, Harvey Gerzema of Iowa Falls; a sister-in-law, Vera (George) Gerzema of Iowa Falls; and 11 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Claus, John, Fred, Matt, George and Ebbel; sisters, Hattie (Albert) Heins, Johanna (LaVern) Lemke, Mattie (Sam) Green and Grace (Ewald) Poley; and two nieces, Darlene Bucholz and Nancy Kornfeld.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Alice Kosanke
Thursday, February 2, 2012

February 8, 2012

MISSOURI—Alice Kosanke, 83, of Missouri, formerly of Eldora, passed away on Thursday, February 2, 2012.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 8, at 10:00 a.m., at the First Baptist Church in Eldora. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will follow the funeral services in the Eldora City Cemetery in Eldora. The Creps-Abels Funeral Home of Eldora, is in charge of the arrangements.

Alice is survived by her nephew, Jerilei Harms of Iowa Falls; and a niece, Judy (Dan) Swesey of Denver, Colorado.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Gladys Mae Kosanke Harms; brother, Irvin Kosanke; and a niece, Katy Lu Harms.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Mark Duane Swart
November 22, 1967-February 4, 2012

February 8, 2012

STEAMBOAT ROCK—Mark Duane Swart, 44, of Steamboat Rock, died on Saturday, February 4, 2012, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, February 9, at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, at the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls. A memorial fund has been established for his children and may be directed to his wife, Michele.

Mark was born on November 22, 1967 in Iowa Falls, the son of Duane and Susan (Kurth) Swart. He graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1986 and Ellsworth Community College in 1987. He went to the University of Iowa in 1995 and then went on to Iowa State in 1996, graduating in 1997 with a degree in agriculture management. Mark was united in marriage to Michele Hendrickson on February 8, 2002, in Key Largo, Florida.

Mark was passionate about farming, deer hunting, the outdoors and spending time with his family at the home he built on the Iowa River. He is loved and will be missed by many.

Mark is survived by his wife, Michele of Steamboat Rock; his son, Jake Swart at home; his daughter, Cheyenne Swart at home; his parents, Duane and Susan Swart of Iowa Falls; and two brothers, John Swart and his wife, Tina and their children, Nathan and Eric of Gilbert and Dale Swart and his daughter, Brenna of Iowa Falls.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents and maternal grandparents.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Frances Van Slyke
June 6, 1933-February 4, 2012

February 8, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Frances Van Slyke, 78, of Iowa Falls, passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2012, at the Heritage Care Center, Iowa Falls.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, February 8, at the First Christian Church, Iowa Falls, with Pastor T.J. Norman officiating. Burial will be in the Friends Cemetery, Iowa Falls. Memorials may be directed to the North Iowa Hospice or to her son, Tim Silvey. The Linn’s Funeral Homes Iowa Falls Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Frances Darlene Frailey, was born on June 6, 1933 at Iowa Falls, the daughter of Harvey Logan and Orpha Mae (Waldo) Frailey. She attended the Iowa Falls Community Schools. She was married to Darrell Van Slyke. She was a homemaker and worked for Grace Indexing at Riverside Book and Bible, Iowa Falls.

Frances Van Slyke is survived by Linda (Keith) Jenkins of Fort Worth, Texas, Tim (Sheree) Silvey of Iowa Falls, Dan (Susan) Silvey of Shellharbour, New South Whales, Australia, April (Ross) Childers of Grand Prairie, Texas, Linda Van Slyke of Mankato, Minnesota and Rebecca (Ronnie) Boelkes of Tyler, Texas; 19 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Virginia Cayler of Lacrosse, Wisconsin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Logan and Orpha Frailey; her husbands, Veachel Silvey and Darrell Van Slyke; a son, Tony Silvey; an infant sister, Roberta Jean Frailey; and a brother, Harvey Frailey.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Lewis Jess Clark
April 29, 1912-February 6, 2012

February 15, 2012

CHARITON—Lewis Jess Clark, 99, of Chariton, died on Monday, February 6, 2012, at the Corydon Nursing Home in Corydon.

Lewis’s cremated remains will be interred in the Union Cemetery in Iowa Falls at a later date.

Lewis was born on April 29, 1912 in Webster City. He was one of 12 children born to Jess W. and Emma C. (Box) Clark. The family moved to Lucas County where Lewis received his education by attending rural schools. On November 10, 1936, Lewis was united in marriage to Emma Ione Kline of Russell. Lewis was a farmer, then worked in a war plant in Moline, Illinois during World War II. After the war they moved to Iowa Falls where he worked for the water department for many, many years.

Lewis enjoyed fishing, camping, mushroom hunting and arrowhead hunting. After his wife passed away in 1989, he moved to southern Iowa where he resided until his passing.

Survivors include one daughter, Betty Fritz of Wever; two sons, Tom Clark of Chariton and Jim Clark of Dewitt; eight grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; two sisters, Jessie Morton of Hubbard and Ruby Lunning Mills of Missouri; along with many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; seven brother; two sisters; one son-in-law; one grandson; and one great-grandson.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Roy Engel
November 18, 1923-February 6, 2012

February 15, 2012

ELDORA—Roy Engel, 88, formerly of Radcliffe, died on Monday, February 6, 2012, at the Eldora Nursing & Rehab Center in Eldora.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, February 11, at the Faith Evangelical Church in Radcliffe. Roy’s cremated remains were interred in the Eldora Cemetery in Eldora. The Boeke Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Roy I. Engel, was born on November 18, 1923, on the family farm east of Radcliffe, to German immigrants Eberhard and Elizabeth (Landau) Engel. He was the youngest of four children. He attended the Salem Evangelical United Brethren Church in Hubbard and began his public education at the McCoy Country School, being taught by his oldest sister, Ida. Roy received the Award of Honor Diploma in 1936 from the County Superintendent of Schools for having the highest class average in Hardin County. Roy went on to graduate with the class of 1940 from the Radcliffe High School. On January 30, 1944, he was united in marriage to Mildred L. Northrup at the Berlin Community Church near Eldora, by the Rev. J. H. Engel, Roy’s uncle. Roy and Mildred lived together on the family farm near Radcliffe for 64 years, where they raised four children.

Roy enjoyed farming and could fix about any piece of broken-down machinery or build whatever he needed. He farmed and did custom harvesting for 45 years, but that’s not all he did. After his crops were hailed out in 1956, he enrolled in a correspondence course and received a degree in accounting through AIB in Des Moines. He focused on income tax preparation and became employed during the winter months at the Alden State Bank. In 1977, he and Mildred established their own successful accounting and tax office in Alden, specializing in farmers of course!

Roy and Mildred also enjoyed traveling, and enjoyed camping as members of the We-Wan-To-Go Chapter of Winnebago Itasca Travelers. They retired from “the office” after 35 years but Roy continued to be involved in the farming operation. He moved for the first time in his life to their new home in Eldora in February 2008. He joined Mildred at the Eldora Nursing and Rehab Center in November 2010.

Roy was a charter member of the Faith Evangelical Church, Radcliffe, when the church was organized in 1969. He served on the building committee as well as serving in all the various offices of the church. He lived a life of faith which was passed down to him through his ancestors and was devoted to studying the Bible and history books to understand God’s word. In his retirement years Roy joined the ICOCC (International Coalition of Covenant Congregations) traveling to their meetings and developing a lending library of videotapes of some world-renowned pastors.

Those remaining to cherish his memory and continue his legacy include his wife, Mildred of Eldora; one daughter, Teresa Shoemaker and her husband, Roger of Webster, South Dakota; three sons, Thomas and his wife, Linda of Radcliffe, Terry of Ames and Timothy and his wife, Sherri of Story City; six grandchildren, Aaron (Kris) Whitney, Amber (Will) Fish, Elizabeth Engel, Evan (Kristen) Engel, Jacob Engel and Sarah Engel; seven great-grandchildren, Triston, Taylor and Tyler Whitney, Carvin and Dannica Fish and Charlotte and Eleanor Engel; three step-grandsons; and nine step-great-grandchildren; along with other relatives and friends.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Ida Durbin, Alice Feind and Edwin Engel.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Irene Lucille Hackbarth
June 28, 1913-February 9, 2012

February 15, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Irene Lucille Hackbarth, 98, of Iowa Falls and formerly of Dows, died at the Heritage Care Center on Thursday, February 9, 2012.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 14, at the First United Methodist Church in Iowa Falls, with burial in the Northlawn Memory Gardens, rural Iowa Falls. The Surls Funeral Home of Iowa Falls, was in charge of the arrangements.

Irene was born on June 28, 1913 in rural Alden, the daughter of Alfred and Sylvia (Coy) Langesen. Irene went to school at the Oakland Valley District 8 and graduated from the Popejoy High School and the State Teachers College, now known as UNI, in Cedar Falls. She had taught three years of country school (Sunny Corner) at Oakland No. 9 for $50 a month, taught three years at Popejoy Junior High School and taught one year at the Alexander Junior High. Irene was united in marriage to Dale Hackbarth on December 20, 1941 in Kansas City, Missouri.

She was a member of the Morgan United Methodist Church in Dows, Morgan UMW, the Morgan Study Club, Franklin County Conservation Board member, Franklin County Extension Council member, Franklin County 4-H Council member, 4-H Leader, Girl Scout Leader and was a Cub Scout den mother.

Irene is survived by her daughter, Sandy Harris and her husband, Bruce of Iowa Falls; a son, Kevin Hackbarth of Muncie, Indiana; a grandson, Shane Harris and his wife, Laurie of Altoona; a granddaughter, Shelby Phippen and her husband, Chuck of Exira; and two great-grandsons, Spencer Harris and Lucas Harris of Altoona.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dale; a brother, Glen Langesen; and a sister, Velma Mae.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Luella Peterson
October 4, 1931-February 10, 2012

February 15, 2012

PERRY—Luella Peterson, 80, of Perry, formerly of Marshalltown, died on Friday, February 10, 2012, at the Madrid Home for the Aging in Madrid.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 17, at 11:00 a.m., at the Hope United Methodist Church in Marshalltown. Visitation will be on Friday, from 10:00 a.m. until the service time at the church. Burial will be in the Tipton Norwegian Lutheran Cemetery in rural Hardin County at 2:30 p.m. Memorials may be given to the Iowa Lions Eye Bank or Muscular Dystrophy and may be left at the funeral home. The Carris Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Luella Carolyn Peterson, was born on October 4, 1931 at Radcliffe, to Lauritz Johan and Kristine Karoline (Harkestad) Haaland. She graduated from Radcliffe in 1949. She married Everett Peterson on February 17, 1951 at Radcliffe. She returned to college and graduated from Ellsworth College in 1972 and then attended the University of Northern Iowa. Luella was a State Farm Insurance agent in Marshalltown from 1979 to 1997. She worked many years as a tax preparer in Iowa Falls and Marshalltown.

Luella grew up in the Lutheran faith and later joined the Methodist Church. She loved music, led music in Sunday School and church choir, would gather her family around the piano and play and sing and also enjoyed golfing and reading.

Luella was preceded in death by her parents, Lauritz and Kristine Haaland; husband, Everett (Gene) Peterson; and a brother, Bertin Haaland.

Survivors include her children, Judy (Richard) Cope of Liberty, Missouri, Roger (Gretchen) Peterson of Mason City and Lisa Peterson (Donald Nordyke) of Perry; three granddaughters, Anne Peterson, Kate (Brian) Knoll and Tressa (Eric) Voss; one great-grandson, Quade Knoll; sister, Klara Steelman of Cedar Rapids; and several nieces and nephews.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Gerene M. Gilmore
May 31, 1925-February 11, 2012

February 15, 2012

WEBSTER CITY—Gerene M. Gilmore, 86, of Webster City, died on Saturday, February 11, 2012, at the Van Diest Medical Center in Webster City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 14, at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alden, with the Rev. Jay Jaeger officiating. Burial followed in the Alden Cemetery. The Foster Funeral and Cremation Center in Webster City, was in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed in Gerene’s name to the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alden or Camp Courageous in Monticello.

Gerene Mae Puttkamer, daughter of Charles and Frieda Brandt Puttkamer, was born on May 31, 1925 in Hubbard. She received her education and graduated from the Alden Senior High School. On January 9, 1946, she married Robert D. Gilmore at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. The couple resided near Alden where they farmed in the Alden and Williams areas. Following their retirement, they moved to Webster City in January of 2001. Mr. Gilmore died on September 28, 2008. She had been residing at the Southfield Wellness Community since January of 2010.

Gerene was a member of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alden, where she was active in the Alden Ladies Aide. She loved cooking, dancing, flower gardening, shopping and most of all spending time with her family and friends.

Survivors include her sons and daughters-in-law, Jeffrey and Cynthia Gilmore of Ames and Kent and Helen Gilmore of Mankato, Minnesota; daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Mark Hild of Webster City; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law, Jack Gilmore of Iowa Falls.

In addition to her husband, Robert, she was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Pat Puttkamer; and sister, Elaine Trousdale.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

John Barron Bremner
April 6, 1936-February 12, 2012

February 18, 2012

IOWA CITY—John Barron Bremner, whose lifelong career at Coe and Cornell Colleges touched the lives of many, died on Sunday, February 12, 2012, at home in Iowa City. He was 75.

Though ill with cancer for far too long, Barron lived every moment fully and with an intense love of life, family and his many, many friends. Barron was born on April 6, 1936 in Knob Lick, Missouri, to parents Noel and Bertha Marie (Bess) Bremner. He moved to Iowa with his family in 1943 and graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1954. Barron pursued and found success in football and wrestling at the University of Iowa where he earned his B.A. and M.A. Degrees. He was a member of the 1957 Big Ten and Rose Bowl Championship football team and the Big Ten Championship wrestling team. Barron was president of the Delta Upsilon social fraternity, the Phi Delta Kappa educational fraternity and the Iowa Lettermen’s Club.

Barron was a college educator at Coe College and Cornell College for 42 years. He firmly believed in the value of athletic experiences in building individuals of strong character. Barron coached football, wrestling and tennis at Cornell from 1959–1978; coached football and wrestling and served as athletic director at Coe from 1971–1978; coached wrestling and served as athletic director and assistant to the president at Cornell from 1978–1982; served as vice president at Cornell 1982–1993; and ended his career at Coe as athletic director and assistant to the president 1993–2001. Barron served as president of the NCAA College Wrestling Coaches Association and served on the NCAA Wrestling Committee and NCAA Swimming Committee. He was elected to the College Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame, to the Coe College Athletics Hall of Fame, and to the Cornell College Sports Hall of Fame. In 2001, Coe College created the annual “Barron Bremner Outstanding Athlete Award” in honor of Barron’s many years of outstanding service to the college, its students and the community. In 2011, Coe and Cornell established “The Bremner Cup,” an all-sport traveling trophy in honor of Barron and his 42 years of service with both colleges. Barron married Elizabeth “Bette” (Bates) Bremner on August 9, 1961, in Allee Chapel on Cornell’s campus. Always celebrating the abundance in life, they enjoyed a family of six children. After 29 years of marriage, Bette preceded him in death in 1990. He married Virginia “Ginne” (Fristedt) Bremner on December 16, 1994, at their home in Mt. Vernon, adding in countless ways to both the family and their shared fun.

In addition to his wife, Ginne, he is survived by five children and their spouses, Barbara Bremner and her husband, Peter Stevenson of Des Moines, William Bremner and his wife, Lynn (Klinge) of Minneapolis, Brenda (Bremner) Clark and her husband, Dr. Jeff Clark of Cedar Falls, Dr. Rebecca Bremner and her husband, Matthew Pigg of Portland, Oregon and Dr. Barron Bremner and his wife, Britt (Skogman) of Des Moines; and by stepson, Steven McLeran and his wife, Laura (McComas) of North Liberty.

Known as “Papa” to them all, Barron is survived by 16 grandchildren, Gabriel and Xavier Stevenson, Samantha, Madeline and Abigail Bremner, Gabriel and Jenna Clark, Perry Henderson, Sabine, Henry and Eleanor Pigg, Maclain, Kylie and Tatum Bremner and Lucas and Samuel McLeran; and by two brothers and a sister, Dr. Robert Bremner of Cedar Falls, Rear Admiral Bruce Bremner of Colorado Springs and Elizabeth (Bremner) Isaac of New Virginia.

Barron was preceded in death by his wife, Bette in 1990; his daughter, Elizabeth Noel Bremner in 1992; and his brother, Dr. George W. “Bill” Bremner in 2007.

Barron was larger than life. He touched the lives and shaped the futures of countless students and athletes over the years. He has left the world a much greater place and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A public celebration of Barron’s life will be held on Saturday, March 3, at 2:00 p.m., in the Sinclair Auditorium at Coe College. A reception will follow at Coe’s Clark Alumni House. Friends may, if they wish, make a memorial gift to Coe College, Cornell College, Iowa City Hospice or as Barron suggested some time ago, “give a double-dip ice cream cone to a child.”
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Darrel S. "Brownie" Brown
July 12, 1931-February 13, 2012

February 18, 2012

IOWA CITY—Darrel S. "Brownie" Brown, 80, passed away on Monday, February 13, 2012, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, after a lengthy illness.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at the St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Mt. Pleasant, on Friday, February 17. Interment followed in the St. Alphonsus Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Brownie’s memory to the Mt. Pleasant Community High School Athletic Booster Club, Baskets of Hope, which is an organization that provides “entertainment baskets” to hospitalized children or H2O (Help to Others), a local organization that supports families in medical crisis. The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel, Mt. Pleasant, was in charge of the arrangements.

Brownie was born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska on July 12, 1931, the third child of Byron Arden and Alta Mae Thurman Brown. Brownie lived with his family in Banner County, Nebraska until 1947, when they moved to Iowa Falls. He graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1949 and began working as a meat cutter at a local grocery store. On January 29, 1950, he married Mary Ann Smith in Iowa Falls. During the early 1950s, Brownie and Mary moved around northern Iowa, as Brownie sought better positions with a variety of grocery store chains. In 1957, Brownie joined Hy-Vee Food Stores at their Ames location. He moved to the Corydon store as the meat market manager in 1958 and then to Mt. Pleasant in 1961. He managed the meat market at the Mt. Pleasant location until his retirement from Hy-Vee Foods in 1991.

In his retirement years, Brownie enjoyed playing golf, spending time with his wife and family, vacationing during the winter months in New Braunfels, Texas and enjoying morning coffee with friends at Dickey’s in Mt. Pleasant. During the majority of his retirement years, Brownie worked part-time during the summer as the assistant greens-keeper at the Mt. Pleasant Golf and Country Club (MPGCC).

Brownie was a member of the St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Mt. Pleasant, where he served on the first Parish Council and was a past chairman of the St. Alphonsus Old Threshers Steering Committee. Brownie was a charter member of the Knights of Columbus Council 7294. In the 1970s, he served on the board of directors of MPGCC and was president of the Mt. Pleasant Goal Line Club (now the Mt. Pleasant Community High School Athletic Booster Club).

He was preceded in death by his parents; an older sister, Maxine Brown; and an older brother, Arden Leon Brown.

Brownie is survived by his wife, Mary, of 62 years; five children, Stephen (Susan) of Lockport, Illinois, Becky Zickefoose (Bryan Molyneux) of What Cheer, Marty (Donna) of Mt. Pleasant, Michael (Kristi) of Comfort, Texas and Scott (Juli) of Cumming, Georgia; 16 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Kathy (Robert Burkle); a brother-in-law, Robert Smith; 15 nieces and nephews; many cousins and many, many friends.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Joan Reagan
April 20, 1930-February 13, 2012

February 18, 2012

ALDEN—Joan Reagan, 81, of Alden, died on Monday, February 13, 2012, at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Monday, February 20, at the Immanuel Memorial United Church of Christ in Alden, with inurnment in the Rowan Cemetery. There will be no visitation. The Surls Funeral Home in Alden, is in charge of the arrangements.

Joan Marilee Reagan, was born on April 20, 1930 in Galt, to Shirley and Mildred (Duffy) Ketchum. Joan attended various country schools and graduated from the Alden High School in 1947. Joan was united in marriage to Merlyn H. Reagan in 1958, at the Immanuel Memorial United Church of Christ in Alden.

Joan is survived by her husband, Merlyn; a daughter, Renee Opperud; a brother, Richard (Isabelle) Ketchum; an uncle, Robert Duffy; three sisters- in-law; and several grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Alma Mae Raber
Monday, February 13, 2012

February 15, 2012

PARKERSBURG—Alma Mae Raber, 59, of Parkersburg, died on Monday, February 13, 2012, at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo, from cancer.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Friday, February 17, at the Christian Reformed Church in Parkersburg. The Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg, is in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Roland C. Newby
February 15, 1922-February 14, 2012

February 18, 2012

STEAMBOAT ROCK—Roland C. Newby, 89, of Steamboat Rock, passed away on Tuesday, February 14, 2012, at his winter home in Weslaco, Texas, from complications of COPD.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, February 20, at the Steamboat Rock Presbyterian Church, with burial in the Steamboat Rock Cemetery. Visitation will be from 7-8:00 p.m., on Sunday, at the Creps-Abels Funeral Home in Eldora.

Roland was born on February 15, 1922 in New Richmond, Wisconsin, the son of Samuel and Hazel (Dunn) Newby. Roland graduated from the Owasa High School in 1940. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II and upon returning home, he attended GI farm school. On December 22, 1946, Roland was united in marriage to Oscarolia Voy. The couple welcomed three children. Roland and Oscarolia were married for over 40 years until her death in 1987. Roland later married Crystal Logsdon and the two were married for several years.

He is survived by his children, Jane (Tony) Doolaard of Steamboat Rock, John (Lora) Newby of Wasilla, Alaska and Sam (Mary Ann) Newby of Anchorage, Alaska; grandchildren, Jeremy (Dawn) Doolaard, Emily (Jeff) Lentzkow, Eric (Kari) Newby, Vance (Jody) Newby, Amber (Greg) Johnson and Alex (Anna) Doolaard; great-grandchildren, Jacob and Caitlyn Lentzkow, Claire and Drew Johnson, Sebastian Newby and Jacob and Jonah Newby; sister, Alice (Robert) Fitzgerald of Marshalltown; several nieces and nephews and special friends, Luke Starr and Crystal Logsdon.

Roland was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Oscarolia; brothers, Gale Newby in infancy and Dale Newby; sisters, Effie Harms and Twyla Winters; and a niece, Gloria Jean Hoveland.

Memorials may be directed to the Steamboat Rock Veterans Memorial, the Steamboat Rock Cemetery or to the family.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Jake H. DeVries
Thursday, February 16, 2012

February 22, 2012

APLINGTON—Jake H. DeVries, 97, of Aplington, died on Thursday, February 16, 2012, at the Maple Manor Village, from natural causes.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 20, at the First Reformed Church, with burial in the Pleasant View Cemetery, both in Aplington. The Redman-Schwartz Chapel in Aplington, was in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Murl A. Biery, Sr.
August 24, 1929-February 17, 2012

February 22, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Murl A. Biery, Sr., 82, of Iowa Falls, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2012, at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital, Iowa Falls.

Private family graveside services will be held at a later date. The Linn’s Funeral Homes Iowa Falls Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Murl Arthur Biery, was born on August 24, 1929 at Dudley, Minnesota, the son of Arthur and Clara (Randall) Biery. He attended the Estherville, Iowa Community Schools. He served with the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1955 on the USS Fletcher during the Korean Conflict. On May 20, 1954, Murl was united in marriage to Geraldine Mae Tromp at Estherville. To this union four children were born, Marcia, Murl Jr., Daniel and Randy. The couple lived in Estherville, West Bend and Iowa Falls, while Murl worked for the Rock Island Railroad.

Murl attended the Baptist, Methodist and First Christian Churches. He loved to work in his garden, enjoyed watching sports and spending time with family and friends. He also enjoyed trapping and golfing with his sons.

Murl A. Biery, Sr. is survived by his children, Marcia (Dave) Ziemann of Iowa Falls, Murl (Janna) Biery, Jr. of Iowa Falls, Dan (Kelly) Biery of Nora Springs and Randy (Linette) Biery of Eldridge; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and three sisters, Ruth Ferraro of Maplewood, Minnesota, Barbara Carney of Las Vegas, Nevada and Helen (Harley) Wheeler of Henning, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Clara Biery; his wife, Gerry Biery; one brother, Robert Biery; and one sister, Grace Biery.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Ronald Brinkmeyer
October 18, 1942-February 17, 2012

February 22, 2012

HUBBARD—Ronald Brinkmeyer, 69, formerly of Hubbard, died on Friday, February 17, 2012, at the Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 20, at the Zion United Church of Christ in Hubbard. Ron was buried in the Hubbard Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Zion United Church of Christ in Hubbard. The Boeke Funeral Home of Hubbard, was in charge of the arrangements.

Ronald Fredrick Brinkmeyer, was born on October 18, 1942, the son of Frederick “Fritz” and Yvonne (Fasse) Brinkmeyer. He was baptized and confirmed in the Zion United Church of Christ in Hubbard. After graduating from the Hubbard High School in 1960, he attended Ellsworth Jr. College in Iowa Falls. In September 1964, he enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard taking his training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. After returning from service, Ron went into a farming partnership with his father. Ron retired from farming and moved to the Gustav Brinkmeyer homestead and went to work for Pella Windows in Story City.

Ron was a member of the Zion United Church of Christ and served on the Farmer Cooperative Board of Directors. Ron was proud to have served as Adjutant for both the Hardin County and Hubbard American Legion Post #4. He was always willing to assist in recruiting new Legion members and held his position proudly.

Those thankful for having shared his life include his brother, Marc and his wife, Vicki of Sandpoint, Idaho; two nephews, Todd and Bryan; one great-niece, Maxie; three uncles, Francis of Rock Island, Illinois, Dennis of Windsor Heights and Gary of Austin, Texas; and special friend, Sharon Kissinger of Hubbard; along with many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, “Fritz” and Yvonne Brinkmeyer; and nephew, Gregg Brinkmeyer.

Ron, like his father, considered himself most fortunate and uniquely blessed for sharing his heritage, the many friends, relatives and the beautiful way of life in rural America.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Robert D. “Bob” Cook
April 23, 1933 February 17, 2012

February 22, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Robert D. “Bob” Cook, 78, of Iowa Falls, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2012, at the Eldora Nursing and Rehab Center, Eldora.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 21, at the First United Methodist Church, Iowa Falls. Burial was in the Alden Township Cemetery, Alden, with military honors provided by the Hyman-Peavey American Legion Post #188, Iowa Falls. The Linn’s Funeral Homes Iowa Falls Chapel was entrusted with the arrangements.

Robert Dean Cook, was born on April 23, 1933 at Ord, Nebraska, the son of George William and Charlotte Alice (Bushman) Cook. After the family moved to Alden, he attended and graduated from the Alden Community Schools. After high school he served in the U.S. Army. On June 15, 1956, Bob was united in marriage to Ruth Elaine Hansen at Hubbard. To this union three boys were born, Ronald, Randy and Richard. Bob worked for the Iowa Department of Transportation for many years, retiring as the area maintenance supervisor in 1995.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Iowa Falls; the PAC-N-GO Campers Club; the North Iowa Antique Tractor Club; and the Hyman-Peavey American Legion Post #188, Iowa Falls.

Bob is survived by his wife, Ruth Cook of Iowa Falls; three sons, Ronald (Kim) Cook of Ellsworth, Randy (Donna) Cook of Alden and Rick (Mary Jo) Cook of Des Moines; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two brothers, Rev. Clive (Mavis) Cook of Cedar Falls and Harold (Ramona) Cook of Middletown, Delaware; one sister, Charlene (Joe) Shore of Eldora; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Catherine Smalley.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Lois A. Hansen
February 14, 1916-February 17, 2012

February 22, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Lois A. Hansen, 96, of Iowa Falls, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2012, at the Heritage Care Center, Iowa Falls.

Private graveside services will be held at a later date this spring. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in her memory to your favorite charity. The Linn’s Funeral Homes, Iowa Falls, is in charge of the arrangements.

Lois Arlene Stowe, was born on February 14, 1916, at her parents’ home south of Iowa Falls. She was one of five children born to Charles V. and Lena (Bates) Stowe. She attended country school and the Iowa Falls Community Schools. On November 13, 1934, Lois was united in marriage to George Lewis Hansen at Waterloo. To this union a daughter, Marlene was born. During her life she worked at the Rath Packing Plant in Waterloo, for the Waterloo Community School System, and then lived on a farm southwest of Iowa Falls. She retired with her husband to Waterloo for eight years before returning to Iowa Falls. Later she worked in the Iowa Falls Community School System (in the West and Jr. High lunch programs). She lived briefly in Portland, Oregon, before again returning to Iowa Falls. In later years she lived at Cedar Ridge Independent Living for eight years, Ashbrook Assisted living for three years and then the Heritage Care Center, all of Iowa Falls.

She loved her family and enjoyed seeing them frequently. She was an excellent homemaker, cook, pie baker and knitter. Lois was a lifetime member of the First Christian Church, Iowa Falls, the Women’s Christian Fellowship of the church, a 50-plus-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star and White Shrine. She was also a member of the Thimble Club, Iowa Falls Garden Club and the Ellsworth Hospital Auxiliary. She will be remembered as gentle, quiet, hard working and strong-willed.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Lena Stowe; her husband, George L. Hansen; her sisters, Geraldine Maas and Maxine Sharar; and her brothers, Quinten Stowe and Burnelle Stowe.

She is survived by her daughter, Marlene (Mrs. Wayne) Grove of Los Altos, California; a granddaughter, Jeanine (Mrs. John) Vella of Wilsonville, Oregon; a grandson, Brad (Sue) Grove of Lake Oswego, Oregon; and four great-grandchildren, Lisa and Kevin Vella, and Max and Jackson Grove.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Bernadette “Bernie” Veronica Etjen
Friday, February 17, 2012

February 22, 2012

PARKERSBURG—Bernadette “Bernie” Veronica Etjen, 75, of Parkersburg, died on Friday, February 17, 2012, at the Maple Manor Village in Aplington, from natural causes.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 21, at the Holy Family Parish-St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, with burial in the St. Patrick Cemetery, both in Parkersburg. The Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg, was in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Lester W. Edler
December 28, 1925-February 18, 2012

February 22, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Lester W. Edler, 86, of Iowa Falls, formerly of Davenport, passed away on Saturday, February 18, 2012, at the North Iowa Mercy Medical Center, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 21, at the Linn’s Funeral Chapel, Iowa Falls. Burial with military honors will be at 11:30 a.m., on Wednesday, February 22, at the Rock Island National Cemetery, Rock Island, Illinois.

Lester Walter Edler, was born on December 28, 1925 at Fairfield, the son of Charles Walter and Jennie Esther (Havener) Edler. He attended Country School Central #11 from 1930 to 1939. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945, serving on two different ships that were shot out from under him in Hawaii, then being transferred to Guam after that. On February 16, 1946, he was united in marriage to Virginia Darlene Wyatt at Fairfield. To this union two daughters were born, Cheryl and Karen. The couple later divorced. On March 3, 1956, he was united in marriage to Thata Iona Hoke in Missouri. To this union two sons were born, Kevin and Lester A. Lester worked for Alloy Metals, Davenport, for over 30 years, retiring in 1985.

He was a hard worker, very seldom missing a day of work, and loved playing baseball with his boys. After retirement he loved to spend time with his wife on the President Gambling Boat, playing cards and enjoying his family. He had a love of dogs starting with his Mitsi. After moving to Iowa Falls to live with his daughter, he enjoyed playing pitch, listening to country music, betting on the Chicago Cubs with his granddaughter and he really enjoyed seeing and loving his great-grandbabies.

Lester W. Edler, is survived by one daughter, Karen Shogren of Iowa Falls; two sons, Kevin (Dawn) Edler of Toronto, Iowa and Lester A. (Rhonda) Edler of Moline, Illinois; twenty-seven grandchildren; forty-two great-grandchildren; two sisters, Esther Keen of West Burlington and Wanda Edler of Fairfield; one uncle, Lloyd Edler of Cedar Rapids; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Thata Edler; a daughter, Cheryl Bohall; a son-in- law, Dale Shogren; one brother, Rex Edler; and four sisters, Avis Edler, Eva Edler, Louise Edler and Maxine Jackson.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Marjorie Squier
January 4, 1920-February 18, 2012

February 22, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Marjorie Squier, 92, of Iowa Falls, passed away on Saturday, February 18, 2012, at the Heritage Care Center, Iowa Falls.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 22, at the First Christian Church, Iowa Falls. A time of visitation will be from 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday until the service time at the First Christian Church. Burial will be in the Union Cemetery, Iowa Falls. The Linn’s Funeral Homes Iowa Falls Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Marjorie LaVonne (Judson) Squier, was born on January 4, 1920 in Dows, the daughter of Lucy Amelia (Maryhew) and James Edgar Judson. She was 6 years old when her father died in November of 1926. Marjorie was the middle child of a family of five and they lived with her grandmother, Lydia Olivia Maryhew, in a home without running water and a cook stove as their only heat in the wintertime. She attended school in Dows and was married in 1937 to Kenneth L. Surls and to that union one child, Connie, was born. She worked as a clerk for J.J. Newberry and then became a cashier for Clifton’s Supermarket in Iowa Falls for many years. When it closed in 1957, she traveled to California where she worked for Safeway Supermarket in Burbank, California, as a cashier and retired from there some years later. She met and married Mark V. Squier in August of 1959. In 1989, she returned to Iowa Falls to make her home on Sanford Drive.

Marjorie loved the LA Dodgers and attended many ball games while living in California. She was a wonderful cook and enjoyed cooking. Her grandchildren requested her potato salad and her pea salad and most of all her peanut butter fudge. She was talented in playing the organ by ear. She was an avid reader and a crossword puzzle champion. She collected lifelike dolls and over 100 dolls were displayed in her “doll room” in her home. She enjoyed her family and looked forward to Christmas, far in advance, when everyone would be together. Writing letters to her nieces, nephews and friends was a favorite pastime of hers.

Marjorie Squier is survived by her daughter, Connie; her five grandchildren, Bret (Beth Jensen) Thies of Indianola, Tony (Mari) Thies of Iowa Falls, Ann (Tom) Humphrey of Polk City, Bruce (Laura) Thies of Iowa Falls and Jill (Kenny) Agan of Ankeny; 15 great-grandchildren, Brooke (Tyler) Williams, Brandon (Jody) Thies, Ryan Humphrey, Jaime Thies, Ashlee Humphrey, Emilee Humphrey, Cody Thies, Andrew Humphrey, Austin Thies, Brayden Thies, Brodie Thies, Olivia Agan, Ella Agan, Kaitlyn Thies and Samuel Agan; four great-great-grandchildren, Turner and Ava Williams and Montana and Tatum Thies; her sister-in-law, Bonnie Judson of Clarion; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband; and four siblings, Richard C. Stewart, Avis K. Lentz, Donnabelle Silvey and James E. Judson Jr.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Florence Bachman
Saturday, February 18, 2012

February 22, 2012

HUBBARD—Florence Bachman, 86, formerly of Hubbard, died on Saturday, February 18, 2012, at the Southridge Nursing & Rehab Center in Marshalltown.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 21, at the Zion United Church of Christ in Hubbard, with burial in the Hubbard Cemetery. The Boeke Funeral Home in Hubbard, was in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Florence Topp
Saturday, February 18, 2012

February 22, 2012

RADCLIFFE—Florence Topp, 94, of Radcliffe, was found dead in her home on Saturday, February 18, 2012.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 25, at 10:30 a.m., at the Faith Evangelical Church in Radcliffe. Florence will be buried in the Sherman Township Cemetery in rural Hubbard. The family will receive friends at the Boeke Funeral Home in Radcliffe on Friday, from 6-8:00 p.m.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Thais Lawton Wilson
July 13, 1918-February 20, 2012

February 22, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Thais Lawton Wilson, 93, of Iowa Falls, passed away on Monday, February 20, 2012, at the North Iowa Hospice, Mason City.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, February 22, at the First United Methodist Church, Iowa Falls. A time of visitation and refreshments will follow the services at the church. Burial will be in the Union Cemetery, Iowa Falls. The Linn’s Funeral Homes Iowa Falls Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Thais Arlene Lawton, was born on July 13, 1918, on a farm north of Alden, the daughter of Harry William and Golda Belle (Lieser) Lawton. She graduated from the Iowa Falls High School with the class of 1936. On March 26, 1938, Thais was united in marriage to Herbert Wayne Wilson at Alden. They lived in Iowa Falls where a son, Ronald, was born on August 4, 1939.

In 1947, they moved to Des Moines, where they lived 27 years and she worked for the state of Iowa for 22 years. After that time they moved back to Iowa Falls for a few years, before moving to Lansing, Michigan, where Herbert passed away on January 22, 1996. She soon moved back to Iowa Falls.

Thais Wilson is survived by her brother, Donald (Joyce) Lawton of Iowa Falls; and two nieces and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Herbert in 1996; her son, Ronald in 1995; and a sister, Annabelle Pryum.

The family wishes for thank you for your many acts of kindness and sympathy at this time.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Jean Marie Fry
December 23, 1927-February 20, 2012

February 25, 2012

MASON CITY—Jean Marie Fry, 84, of Mason City, died on Monday, February 20, 2012, at the Rockwell Community Nursing Home.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 23, at the Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, with the Rev. Sid Bohls officiating. Burial was in the Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City. Memorial contributions may be designated to the Jean Fry memorial fund in care of the family.

Jean Marie Fry, was one of 12 children born to George and Myrtle Auchampach Brownlee in Popejoy, on December 23, 1927. Jean attended grade school in Popejoy and later in Iowa Falls. Jean was a waitress in Iowa Falls and was united in marriage to her first husband, J. Fred Mills, on May 10, 1945 and to this union, two children were born, Twila and Tanya. Years later, the marriage ended and she married Darwin Fry in 1964, bringing his son, Kip Fry, into the family. Jean was a homemaker all of her life, taking care of her three precious children.

Jean and Darwin enjoyed traveling all around the United States and Europe. Darwin passed away in May of 1987. Jean was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mason City. Jean was an immaculate housekeeper and a fabulous cook where the family had many gatherings at her home. Jean enjoyed playing cards and mushroom hunting. Her passion was being in the outdoors, walking, gardening and attending to her flowers. She also enjoyed reading and had exceptional crocheting skills. Most importantly, her family came first and she enjoyed spending her time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Left to cherish her memory includes her children, Twila (Norm) Luker of Mason City, Tanya (LaVern) Dahl of Mason City and Kip Fry of Grapevine, Texas; grandchildren, Deanna (Duane) Loeschen of Mason City, N. Scott (Elisabeth) Palmer of Carrollton, Texas, Lorri (Steve) Caster of Clive, Tiffani (Brad) Allen of Hampton and Courtny Trappe and fiancé, Josh Beals of Mason City; great-grandchildren, Brittany, Nate, Parker, Jake, Drake, Derek, Wyatt, Kylie, Tucker and Sophia; sister, Bernita Noble of Sioux City; and her sister-in- law, Yvonne McGavock of La Crosse, Wisconsin.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, J. Fred and Darwin; siblings, Gerald, Winston, Arlis, Arlene, Phebe, Graydon, Delores, Crystal, Delpha and Calvin; and great-granddaughter, Zimry.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Lola M. Callaway
Tuesday, February 21, 2012

February 25, 2012

STEAMBOAT ROCK—Lola M. Callaway, 93, of Steamboat Rock, died on Tuesday, February 21, 2012, at the Valley View Nursing and Rehab Center in Eldora, while under the care of Iowa Hospice.

Following private family graveside services in the Steamboat Rock Cemetery, a memorial service was held on Thursday, February 23, at the First Baptist Church of Eldora. The Creps-Abels Funeral Home of Eldora, was in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Joyce Joan Kirkbride
Tuesday, February 21, 2012

February 25, 2012

HAMPTON—Joyce Joan Kirkbride, 66, of Hampton, passed away on Tuesday, February 21, 2012, at the Rehabilitation Center of Hampton.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, February 25, at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton. Visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 a.m., on Saturday, at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Hampton Cemetery.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Darlene E. “Dee” Meints
March 27, 1940-February 24, 2012

February 29, 2012

STEAMBOAT ROCK—Darlene E. “Dee” Meints, 71, of Steamboat Rock, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, February 24, 2012, at the Valley View Nursing and Rehab Center in Eldora. Her strong will was evident in her courageous battle against scleroderma for more than 25 years.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 28, at the Eldora United Methodist Church in Eldora, with Pastor Bruce Baillie of the First Presbyterian Church of Steamboat Rock officiating. Following cremation, a private family burial will be held at a later date, in the Steamboat Rock Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Dee’s family and will be used to further scleroderma research. The Creps-Abels Funeral Home in Eldora, is in charge of the arrangements.

She was born on March 27, 1940 in Iowa Falls, daughter of Walter and Esther (Frerichs) Steinfeldt. Dee attended school in Iowa Falls and then graduated from the Steamboat Rock High School with the class of 1957. She was united in marriage to Larry Meints on November 18, 1960, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Eldora. They made their home on the family farm east of Steamboat Rock and to this union were born four children, Brad, Bryan, Renee and Loree.

Dee was known for her hard work, working on the farm while raising four children. In 1978, she bought The Green Door Restaurant where for more than 21 years she created great food, a lively atmosphere and lifelong friendships. She also owned and operated the Rock Stop for 14 years. Dee was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church, where she was presently serving as a deacon. She enjoyed caring for her flowers and greatly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially the Sunday night tradition that continues. Her biggest smiles came from every moment spent with her seven grandchildren, and she felt blessed that her family was so emotionally and physically connected.

Dee is survived by her husband, Larry; sons, Brad and his wife, Deb of Steamboat Rock and Bryan and his wife, Jo of Eldora; daughters, Renee Balvanz of Eldora and her friend, Daryl Hartwig and Loree Salvo of Eldora and her husband, Greg; by seven grandchildren, Dakota, Dayton and Dru Balvanz, Brandon and Justin Meints and Emma and Ava Salvo; and a sister-in-law, Liz Steinfeldt of Steamboat Rock.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Duane Steinfeldt.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Eugene Te Grotenhuis
March 22, 1922 February 25, 2012

February 29, 2012

ORANGE CITY—Mr. Eugene Te Grotenhuis, 89, of Orange City, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, February 25, 2012, at the Orange City Area Health System Hospital.

There will be a memorial service on Wednesday, February 29, at 10:30 a.m., at the First Reformed Church in Orange City. The Rev. Mark Haverdink and the Rev. Timothy Breen will officiate. Interment will be prior to the service in the West Lawn Cemetery in Orange City. There will be a prayer service on Wednesday, at 9:30 a.m., at the Oolman Funeral Home in Orange City.

“Gene” was born in Orange City on March 22, 1922, to Gerrit and Rena (Bonnema) Te Grotenhuis. He was raised on the family farm west of Orange City and attended the Orange City Public School. He served during World War II with the United States Armies 149th Engineers, from February 1943 through December 1945. He landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day II. Gene was united in marriage to Leola Van Wyk on January 8, 1946, at the First Reformed Church in Orange City. They recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary. They made their home north of Orange City, where they farmed. In 1973, they moved into town, where he worked as a custodian and drove a bus for the Maurice-Orange City Schools.

Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved to tell stories and talk about the weather. Some jokes his grandchildren and great-grandchildren told brought tears rolling down his cheeks. He had a servant’s heart. Gene and Leola opened their home several times to foster children, both on the farm and at their home on Kansas Avenue. He was a faithful member of the First Reformed Church, where he served as an elder and he cherished the family of believers he had there. He also belonged to the Pressman-Kosters American Legion Post in Orange City.

For the last two years, Gene and Leola have enjoyed living in the Pioneer Memorial Home in Orange City. They were so thankful to God for their many years together. He left his family with a legacy of faith and love, which has lasted through good and difficult times.

Gene is survived by his wife, Leola; four children and their spouses, Gary and Linda Te Grotenhuis of Orange City, Dan and Allyson Te Grotenhuis of Greencastle, Indiana, Jane and David Van Gorp of Iowa Falls and Doug and Peggy Te Grotenhuis of Orange City; 13 grandchildren, Jeff Te Grotenhuis, Kris (Jason) Olson and Todd (Diane) Te Grotenhuis; Joshua Te Grotenhuis and Abby (Matt) Chatelain; Joseph Van Gorp, Paul (Kyla) Van Gorp, Stephen Van Gorp, Rebekah Van Gorp and Gabrielle Van Gorp; and Jennifer Te Grotenhuis, Sarah Te Grotenhuis and Aaron Te Grotenhuis; and nine great-grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; and his three brothers and their wives, Arthur and Kate Te Grotenhuis, Russell and Dorothy Te Grotenhuis and Milo and Gert Te Grotenhuis.

Memorials may be directed to the First Reformed Church Cornerstone Fund for children and youth ministries.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Mark A. Kramer
July 4, 1951-February 25, 2012

February 29, 2012

STEAMBOAT ROCK—Mark A. Kramer, 60, of rural Steamboat Rock, died at his home on Saturday, February 25, 2012.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, February 29, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Eldora, with Pastor David Splett officiating. Burial will follow in the Steamboat Rock Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church for one hour prior to the services. The Creps-Abels Funeral Home in Eldora, is in charge of the arrangements.

Mark was born on July 4, 1951 in Eldora, son of Merle E. and Mildred “Mick” (Polzin) Kramer. He graduated from the Steamboat Rock High School in 1969 and lived and farmed on his family’s farm west of Steamboat Rock. He was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church. Mark was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Iowa Hawkeye fan and enjoyed playing “pepper” with friends and also enjoyed regularly calling on some of his very special friends.

Mark is survived by his mother, Mick; by brothers, Randy and his wife, Laura of Steamboat Rock and Marvin and his wife, Lora also of Steamboat Rock; sister, Robin Nicholson and her husband, Doug of Fairbanks, Alaska; and by many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Merle in December of 2008; and by a sister, Diane in 1959.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Letha M. Hanson
December 19, 1913-February 25, 2012

March 10, 2012

HUBBARD—Letha M. Hanson, 98, formerly of Hubbard, died on Saturday, February 25, 2012, at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, March 10, at 10:30 a.m., at the Salem United Methodist Church in Hubbard. Letha’s cremated remains will be interred in the Hubbard Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Hubbard Library Building Fund, P.O. Box 265, Hubbard, IA 50122. The Boeke Funeral Home of Hubbard, is in charge of the arrangements. Relatives and friends are invited to join for lunch and fellowship in the church’s fellowship hall following the committal service.

Letha Marian (Lake) Hanson, was born on December 19, 1913, on a farm in the “Cottage Community.” She was one of six children born to Charley and Oca (Katsch) Lake. She received her education by attending the Cottage School and graduated from the Iowa Falls High School in 1932. After high school she went to work for the Corn - Hog Office in Eldora. On November 29, 1934, Letha was united in marriage to Silas Hanson in Eldora. They spent their entire lives living in Hubbard, except Letha’s last six years that she spent at the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls.

Letha was an avid reader and fisherman. She enjoyed bird watching and flowers. She was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church in Hubbard.

Those remaining to cherish her memory include her daughter, Shila and husband, Bill Stowe of New Providence; her son, Paul Hanson of Alden; six grandchildren, Steven (Michelle) Hanson, Stephanie (George) Faust, Michael (Sandy) Stowe, David (Diana) Stowe, Cary (Janelle) Stowe and Craig (Richelle) Stowe; 14 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Arleta Evans of Dows and Lois Terry of Colorado Springs, Colorado; along with many other relatives and friends.

Letha was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Silas; daughter-in- law, Charlene Hanson; sister, Gail Brightwell; and two brothers, Emery and Howard.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Lester O. Ostercamp
Saturday, February 25, 2012

February 29, 2012

APLINGTON—Lester O. Ostercamp, 98, formerly of Aplington, died on Saturday, February 25, 2012, at the Rehabilitation Center of Hampton.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 28, at the Aplington Baptist Church, with burial in the Pleasant View Cemetery, both in Aplington. The Redman-Schwartz Funeral Chapel in Aplington, was in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Jennie O. Haines
Monday, February 27, 2012

February 29, 2012

IOWA FALLS—Jennie O. Haines, 96, of Iowa Falls, passed away on Monday, February 27, 2012, at the Altoona Nursing and Rehab Center, Altoona.

Funeral services are pending with the Linn’s Funeral Home, Iowa Falls.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Harold Lloyd Heffner
Monday, February 27, 2012

March 3, 2012

PARKERSBURG— Harold Lloyd Heffner, 89, of Parkersburg, died on Monday, February 27, 2012, at the Maple Manor Village, from natural causes.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 2, at the St. Patrick Catholic Church, with burial in the St. Patrick Cemetery, both in Parkersburg. The Redman-Schwartz Funeral Home in Parkersburg, was in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Marion E. Jorgensen
Monday, February 27, 2012

March 3, 2012

HAMPTON—Marion E. Jorgensen, 81, of Hampton, passed away on Monday, February 27, 2012, at the Franklin General Hospital in Hampton.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, March 3, at the Hampton United Methodist Church in Christ Chapel. Inurnment will take place in the Hampton Cemetery. The Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Nancy J. Adams
February 2, 1949-February 28, 2012

March 3, 2012

EL PASO, Texas—Nancy J. Adams, 63, of El Paso, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, February 28, 2012, of complications of a stroke.

She was born on February 2, 1949 in Waterloo, Iowa, to Frank and Bessie Mokosak. She was married to A.J. Adams.

She is survived by her husband, A.J.; one son, Troy Prugh of Las Cruces, New Mexico; one daughter, Heather Prugh of Rockford, Illinois; her mother, Bessie Mokosak of Denver, Iowa; one sister, Barbra Eighmey of Iowa Falls, Iowa; one brother, Richard (Janet) Mokosak of Waterloo, Iowa; and three grandchildren.

Preceded by her father, Frank Mokosak; one brother-in-law, Jim Eighmey; one sister-in-law, Carol Mokosak; one nephew, Bill Eighmey; and one niece, Lisa Eighmey.

Funeral arrangements are pending in El Paso, Texas.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Donald William Tresemer
February 16, 1936-February 29, 2012

March 3, 2012

COUNCIL BLUFFS—Donald William Tresemer, was born on February 16, 1936 and passed away on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, at the Regency Rehabilitation Facility after many health challenges.

He was a resident of Council Bluffs and lived with daughter, Randie Kunkle and family. Don was born in Iowa Falls, to parents Dorothy and William Tresemer. Don graduated high school from Iowa Falls and then went on to obtain a civil engineering degree from Iowa State University. Don married Harriet Lucille Tresemer on January 28, 1962 and they were married for 49 years before Harriet’s death in 2010. Don enjoyed his work at Welden Brothers in Iowa Falls for 35 years, before moving to Denton, Texas, where he acted as an independent consultant.

Donald and Harriet moved back to southwest Iowa in 1990, where he worked as the county engineer for Montgomery County, as well as Adair County. Don’s passion for engineering was obvious as he was always seen carrying a tablet of paper and calculator, constantly designing. Donald had several hobbies he was involved in such as studying American history, reading mysteries and watching numerous sporting events.

Don is survived by children, Ray and Patty Tresemer of Centerville, Roxane and Gary Rolph of Steamboat Rock, Rowene Barber and Ed Eischen of Eldora and Randie and Jim Kunkle of Council Bluffs; grandchildren, Megan Tresemer Phillips, Tom Tresemer, Kasey and Korey Rullestad, Ryan Rolph, Katie Rolph Drum, Brandon Barber, Charles Barber, Jessica Barber Peters and Jennifer, Samantha and James Kunkle Jr.; great-grandchildren, Lauren and Lucas Phillips; Palmer, Gracie and Lily Drum; Rhonda Rullestad; Chance Tamminga and Legend Rolph; Tyler, Bea, and Mikey Barber; and Joey and Becca Barber; and his sister, Pat Keough.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and William Tresemer; wife, Harriet Tresemer; and daughter, Rhonda Rullestad.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Joel Eddy
Wednesday, February 29, 2012

March 3, 2012

LATIMER—Joel Eddy, 53, of Latimer, passed away on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, as a result of a traffic accident on Highway 3, near his home in Latimer.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, March 6, at the Nazareth Lutheran Church in Coulter. Visitation will be from 4-8:00 p.m., on Monday, at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton. Burial will take place at a later date.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012

Verdelle Hoth
Wednesday, February 29, 2012

March 3, 2012

STORY CITY—Verdelle Hoth, 99, of Story City, died on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, at the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, March 9, at the Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Radcliffe, with burial in the Radcliffe Cemetery. Friends may call at Bethany Manor in Story City, on Thursday, March 8, from 2-4:00 p.m. or at the Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Radcliffe, on Thursday, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Boeke Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
© Iowa Falls Times Citizen 2012