Sheffield - Ralph Kramer, 94, of Sheffield, died Friday, December 23, 2011, at the Sheffield Care Center.

Memorial Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, (December 27, 2011) at the Deerfield Assisted Living in Sheffield followed by a light lunch.

Upon Ralph's wishes he was cremated and there will be no vistiation.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association or Deerfield Place in Ralph Kramer's name.

Ralph was born on February 29, 1916, in Rockwell, one of fourteen children to Jake and Gertie (Klopp) Kramer. He attended the Swaledale School. Ralph was united in marriage to Rueberta Walker on September 2, 1939 at Eldora. They farmed in the Sheffield area until 1960 when they relocated to Hampton. Ralph was employed at Maytag Corp. in Hampton and retired in 1981. In 1973 they relocated to Sheffield and during retirement enjoyed woodworking, caring for his yard and flowers, dancing, playing cards and traveling to Wisconsin to see their daughter, granddaughters and families.

Ralph is survived by his daughter, Dixie Lee Prevost of Grafton, Wis.; two granddaughters, Michele Janasik (Gregg) of Cedarburg, Wis., and Roxanne Hanson (Greg) of Dacula, Ga; four great- grandchildren, Brandon, Taylor and Ryan Janasik and Michael Hanson; sister, Dorothy Deam (Don) of Mason City; brother, Marvin (Marlys) Kramer of Sheffield; and many nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by three special sisters-in-law: Lavera Bruns (Ed), Verda Meyer (Willis) of Deerfield Place, Bernice Walker; and brother-in-law, Clyde Walker of Hampton.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rueberta of 72 years of marriage; parents, five sisters; six brothers; a son-in-law, Michael Prevost and brothers-in-law, Ed Bruns and Willis Meyer.

Special thanks is extended to dear friends, Dick Christianson and Vernita Nichols for their support during Ralph's hospital care.

Ralph's humor and jokes will be missed by his friends at Deerfield Place and the Sheffield Care Center. His daughter wishes to than the staff at these facilities for the love and care given to Ralph.

Arrangements: Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City, Iowa 50401, 641-423-0924.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com

Published in Globe Gazette from December 24 to December 26, 2011

Clear Lake- Stanley E. Nash, 69, of Clear Lake, died Friday (December 23, 2011) at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

A Celebration of Life service for Stanley will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday (December 28, 2011) at the Opportunity Village Gymnasium, 1200 N. Ninth St. W., Clear Lake, with Pastor Rich Murray officiating.

A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at Opportunity Village.
Stanley Everett Nash was born on September 10, 1942, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the son of Kenneth and Jeannie (Kerstetter) Nash.

In his earlier years Stanley lived at Woodward and then the County Care Facility before moving to the Cloud Nine Cottage at Opportunity Village on June 17, 1996. While living at Opportunity Village Stanley was blessed with the friendship of many.

He liked to go fishing and bowling, and loved playing Bingo, he was always anxious to show off his latest prize! Stanley also enjoyed watching movies, especially comedies and westerns, attending Wednesday night Spiritual Life services at Opportunity Village, and Stanley always looked forward to his monthly lunch date with his brother, Ken. But anyone who knew Stanley would know that his favorite hobby was his trains! Whether he was visiting the Locomotive Engine in East Park, enjoying the train scenery in his room, from the wallpaper border to his train lamp, or even just watching a T.V. show about trains, Stanley loved everything about trains.

Until 2002 Stanley worked for NIVC where he enjoyed attending their holiday parties and working with his friends. Most recently he worked at the recycling center at Opportunity Village, where he made many friends.

Stanley is survived by his sister, Marie Hamilton, Williamsport, PA; and his brother, Ken Nash, Bedrock Cottage at Opportunity Village, Clear Lake; and his many close friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, five siblings, and his close friend, Kim MaHaffey.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 N. Fourth St., Clear Lake, 641-357-2193. www.colonialchapels.
com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 24 to December 26, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - Vivian M. Anderson, 92, of Clear Lake, died Sunday (December 25, 2011) at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 28, at Faith Lutheran Church in Miller with Rose Visser, lay pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Cataldo Funeral Chapel, 160 E. Fourth St., in Garner and will continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Vivian M. Anderson, the daughter of Theodore and Ruth (Luscomb) Back, was born December 21, 1919, on a farm near Clear Lake.

She attended Grant Center rural school and Fertile High School. On March 10, 1937, she was married to Earl K. Anderson at her parent's home near Clear Lake. Vivian was baptized and confirmed at Ellington Prairie Church in 1938. Earl and Vivian farmed northwest of Ventura for thirty-eight years until retiring and moving into Ventura in 1975. Earl passed away in 1993.

In 2001, Vivian moved to Clear Lake. She enjoyed attending Bible study.

She was a 4-H leader for Ellington Township Girls Club, a Sunday school teacher and an active member of Ellington Prairie Church and later Faith Lutheran Church in Miller.

Vivian is survived by her four children, Fran (Gary) Huling of Hampton, Sharon (Bob) Fischer of Hondo, Texas, Marge (Jim) Brasel of Eden Prairie, Minn., and Jerry (Joanie) Anderson of Clear Lake; thirteen grandchildren; and twenty-five great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Earl, Feb. 11, 1993; and granddaughter, Connie Huling.

Cataldo Funeral Home, Garner, 641-923-2841, www.cataldofuneralhome.com

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

Sheffield - Irene Velma (Priebe) Birkholz, 91, of Sheffield, died Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011, at the Rockwell Community Nursing Home.

Funeral services will be held 10:45 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 31, at Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Sheffield with the Rev. G. Kim Wills presiding.

Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery in Charles City. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m., Friday at Retz Funeral Home, Sheffield.

Retz Funeral Home, www.retzfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

WAVERLY - Rex Paul Bunger, 55, of Mason City, Iowa, and formerly of Waverly, Iowa, died on Dec. 23, 2011, at Hospice of North Iowa in Mason City, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011 at 2 p.m. the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly.

Burial will be held in Grace Lutheran Cemetery, rural Tripoli, Iowa.

Visitation will be held today, Monday, Dec. 26, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home, Waverly, 319-352-1187.

Memorials may be directed to the Opportunity Village in Clear Lake.

Online condolences may be left at www.kaisercorson.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Betty Burris, 77, of Charles City, died Friday, Dec. 23, 2011, at her home.

Arrangements are pending with the Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, 641-228-2323, www.hauserfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

FOREST CITY - Cheryl Hansen, 55, of Forest City died Sunday (Dec. 25, 2011) at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City.

Services are pending at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City, 641- 585-2685, www.petersenlundfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Catherine Hartmann, 82, of Charles City, died Friday, Dec. 23, 2011, at her home.

Funeral services for Catherine Hartmann will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Hauser Funeral Home. The Rev. Todd Sorensen will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery at Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m. today, Monday, Dec. 26, and an hour prior to the service on Tuesday.

The Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, 641-228-2323, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - Jean L. Howell, 71 of 625 14th Ave. N., Clear Lake, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011 at Heritage Care Center, Mason City.

Arrangements are incomplete at Fullerton Funeral Home 123 Second St. S.E., Mason City, IA 50401, 641-423-8676, www.Fullertonfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

LAKE MILLS - Robert D. Kvale, 82, of Lake Mills, died Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011, at Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City, IA.

Services are pending at Mittelstadt Funeral Home, 902 East Main Street, Lake Mills, IA 50450.

You can contact the family with on-line condolences at www.mittelstadtfuneralhome.com, 641-592-0221.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

HAMPTON - Gladys M. Peters 91, of Hampton, died Saturday at the Franklin General Hospital Nursing Facility in Hampton.

Funeral arrangements are pending at the Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton, 641-456-3232 www.sietsemavogelfuneralhomes.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

Mason City - Theodore "Ted" Pierce, 81, of Mason City, died Saturday (Dec. 24, 2011) at the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete with Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, 641-423-2372, www.colonialchapels.com

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

Whittemore - Laura L. Salz, 95, died Friday, Dec. 23, 2011, at the Algona Manor Care Center.

A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Whittemore, with Father Victor Ramaeker officiating. Burial will be in St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Oakcrest Funeral Services of Whittemore, with a rosary beginning at 4:30 p.m. and a scripture prayer service beginning at 7 p.m.

Oakcrest Funeral Services, 515-884-2246 www.oakcrestfuneralservices.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

Rockford - Betty (McLaughlin) Schumacher, 88, of Rockford and formerly of Mason City, died Saturday (Dec. 24, 2011) at the Rockwell Community Nursing Home in Rockwell.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday (Dec. 29, 2011) at Holy Name Catholic Church, 507 First Ave. N.W., Rockford, with the Rev. Rodney M. Allers and the Rev. Kenneth B. Gehling as Con-Celebrants.

Interment will follow in the Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

A visitation will be held Wednesday evening (Dec. 28, 2011) from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Holy Name Catholic Church in Rockford where a Scriptural Wake service will be held at 4 p.m.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, 641-423-2372. www.colonialchapels.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Gloria E. Skuster, 83, of Charles City, died Friday, Dec. 23, 2011, at Cedar Health, Charles City.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at Messiah Lutheran Church, Charles City. Entombment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens rural Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday. Visitation will continue at the church an hour prior to the service.

The Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, 641-228-2323, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 26, 2011

MASON CITY - Wallace Lee Bailey, 59, of 849 12th St.N.W., Mason City, died Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa.

Per Wallace's wishes, he has been cremated and no formal services are planned.

Wallace Bailey was born in Mason City to Oatis Jr. and LeVound Quam Bailey on March 10, 1952. He attended and graduated from Mason City High School in 1970. He played football and wrestled.

He met the love of his life, Doreta Lindloff, in 1978. He was a roofer and worked for Dynakleen and was a courier for some years. Wallace and Doreta were united in marriage on Sept. 8, 1984, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Mason City. He worked at the Farmstead meat packing plant in Albert Lea, Minn., along with another meat packing firm in Monfort, Minn., and Armour in Mason City.

Wallace enjoyed hunting pheasants and deer. He took pride in the black bear that he killed on his first bear trip to Canada. He also was a handyman around the house, fixing almost anything and enjoyed fishing. He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association and North America Hunting Club and was a member of Ducks Unlimited.

He is survived by his wife, Doreta Bailey; three step-daughters, Kathy (John) Adams, Rockford, Shelley Lindloff, Mason City, Lisa (Dave) Julsen, Thornton; 10 step-grandchildren, two step-great-grandchildren; sister, Patricia (Robert) Martin, Rockwell; brother, Dennis Bailey, Mason City; niece, Pam (Matt) Litterer, and their son, JT, Nora Springs, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Wallace was preceded in death by his parents, Oatis Jr. and Levound Bailey; grandparents, Oat and Hazel Bailey and Clayton and Tilla Quam along with his nephew, Todd Martin.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, 641-423-2372, www.colonialchapels.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 23 to December 27, 2011

MASON CITY - Patricia A. Boyden, 83, of Mason City, died Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011, at the I.O.O.F. Home in Mason City.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, with Deacon Brent Hamilton officiating. Inurnment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Highway 122 W., Mason City.

Visitation for Patricia will be 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel.

Should friends desire, memorials may be left in Patricia's name in care of her family.
Patricia Ann Jubb was born on Sept. 20, 1928, in De Queen, Ark., the daughter of Vern and Mona Jubb. During Patricia's younger years the family moved back to Mason City. Patricia attended and graduated from Mason City High School. Following her graduation, she attended nursing school.

Patricia was united in marriage to Guy Bemiss and, following his death, to Karl Boyden, who would also precede her in death.

For many years Patricia worked in nursing at the Park Hospital in Mason City. She also worked with the U.S.O. during the Korean War, as an interior designer at Tyler/Ryan, for Hogan-Bremer Colonial Chapel as an aftercare counselor, and for the Department of Corrections.

In her free time, Patricia enjoyed crocheting and sewing, playing Bingo at the V.F.W., tending to her houseplants, and cooking.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church and the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary.
Those grateful in sharing in Patricia's life are her children, Jon Boyden, Los Angeles, Calif., Glenn Boyden, Mason City, and Chris (Kristin) Boyden, Northwood; grandchildren, Richard Andrews, Amber Boyden, Chelsea Boyden, and Chase Boyden; a great granddaughter, Marlee; a sister-in-law, Marcella Jubb; a niece Rose; and a nephew, Carl.

Patricia is preceded in death by her parents; her two husbands; her special friend, Merit Wike; a daughter, Mona Lynne Andrews; a son, Kenneth Eugene Boyden; and a brother, Robert Jubb.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 641-423-2372, www.colonialchapels.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 23 to December 27, 2011

LITTLE CEDAR - Esther A. Doane, 99, of Little Cedar, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at the Faith Home in Osage.

Services are pending at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, 641-732-3706, www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 27, 2011

WAVERLY - Lorraine R. Eggleston, 88, of Waverly, died Sunday morning, Dec. 25, 2011, at the Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community in Waverly from complications of Alzheimer's disease.

Lorraine was born on Nov. 29, 1923, in Mason City, the daughter of Russell and Estella (Tuegel) Johnston. Lorraine graduated from the Mason City High School and then graduated from Teachers College in Cedar Falls with her teaching certificate.

On Dec. 25, 1944, Lorraine was united in marriage to Maxon W. "Max" Eggleston in Mason City. The couple lived most of their married life in Waverly. Max died on Nov. 6, 1997, and Lorraine continued to make her home in Waverly.

She was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Waverly.

Lorraine is survived by her two sons, Mark Eggleston of Coralville, Kim (Paula) Eggleston of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.; two grandchildren, Max Eggleston, and Matthew Phillips; a son-in-law, Mark Phillips; her brother, Dr. Tom (Pat) Johnston of Mason City; and her sister, Marian Hess of New York. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Max; and her daughter, Marian Eggleston Phillips.

Private family graveside services will be held at a later date at Harlington Cemetery in Waverly.

There will be no visitation as Lorraine's body has been cremated. Memorials may be directed to the donor's choice. Online condolences for Lorraine's family may be left at www.kaisercorson.com.

Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly is assisting the family, 319-352-1187.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 27, 2011

LAKE MILLS - Mary M. Hamm, 68, of Lake Mills, died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011 at Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Mittelstadt Funeral Home, 902 E. Main St., Lake Mills.

You can contact the family with online condolences at www.mittelstadtfuneralhome.com, 641-592-0221.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 27, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Charles E. "Charlie" Hardt, 85, of Charles City, died Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011, at his home.

A funeral Mass for Charlie Hardt will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Monsignor Stanley Hayek will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery at Charles City. There will be a flag presentation by the Charles City Ceremonial Unit.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, today, where the Scriptural Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. followed by the Rosary led by the Knights of Columbus.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that memorials be made to the Charles City Area Dollars for Scholars Fund. The donations can be made online at http://snipurl.com/charleshardtdonation. Memorials may also be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital , 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Please use donor number 29784690.

The Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, 641-228-2323, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 24 to December 27, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - Jean L. Howell, 71, of 625 14th Ave. N., Clear Lake, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at Heritage Care Center, Mason City.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at Fullerton Funeral Home, 123 Second St. S.E., Mason City. Officiating will be Dima Krull. Inurnment will be in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

A gathering for family and friends will be from 4 until 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral chapel. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Jean Howell Memorial Fund. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Mason City, 641-423-8676.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 26 to December 27, 2011

AREDALE - Blair E. Noelting, 55, of Aredale, died Sunday at his home.
Funeral arrangements are pending at the Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont, www.sietsemavogelfuneralhomes.com, 641-456-3232.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 27, 2011

HAMPTON - Gladys Maxine Peters, 91, died Dec. 24, 2011 at the Franklin General Hospital Nursing Facility.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at the Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton. Burial will take place at the Oakland Cemetery in Manchester. Pastor Arthur Zewert will be Officiating.

Visitation will be held 9 a.m. until service time on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home, Hampton, www.sietsemavogelfuneralhomes.com, 641-456-3232.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 26 to December 27, 2011

RUDD -Leona Ida Matilda Philipp, 101, passed away Dec. 25, 2011, at the Manilla Manor in Manilla.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at Eden Presbyterian Church, 3105 Glass Ave., rural Rudd, with the Rev. John Bates officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery, Rudd.

Visitation will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.

Leona was born Oct. 11, 1910, in Rock Falls, the daughter of William and Margaret (Buckman) Schlobohm. She graduated from Rock Falls High School in 1927.

On June 26, 1932, Leona and Robert Philipp were married in Rochester, Minn. They made their home in Rudd and later moved to their farm by Rudd, where they raised three children, Sylvia, Robert, and Daryl.

Leona was a lifelong dedicated member of Eden Presbyterian Church. Sharing her faith with family and friends was her calling. Leona was gifted with artistic talent; her family has many of her works of tatting and paintings. She shared her Dennis the Menace cartoons, rhubarb meringue pie and paper beads with family and friends. In her later years, she enjoyed playing cards and fellowship with family.

Leona is survived by her three children, Sylvia Pluntz, Robert Lee Philipp, and Daryl Craig Philipp and his wife Denise. Leona also leaves behind six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Robert Louis Philipp; son-in-law, Arvy Pluntz; her parents; brother, Otto Schlobohm; and sister, Grace Schlobohm.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com.
Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, 641-732-3706.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 27, 2011

MASON CITY - Theodore "Ted" Pierce Sr., 81, of Mason City, died Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011, surrounded by his family at Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City. Internment will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. The family requests casual attire be worn.

Memorial contributions may be designated to the Theodore Pierce Sr. Memorial Fund.
Ted was born on May 29, 1930, to David and Althea (Bayless) Pierce in Jackson, Minn. He was raised and attended school in Hanlontown.

Ted was united in marriage to Susan K. (Estle) Pierce in the Little Brown Church in Nashua on April 3, 1960. Ted was employed with Master Mechanics in Burlington, Wis., from 1961 to 1992, when he retired.

Ted enjoyed flea markets and loved rummage sales. He spent much of his time with his grandchildren, which he cherished greatly.

Ted will be missed by his wife of 51 years, Susan Pierce; children, Bruce (Karin) Pierce, Janesville, Wis., Theodore Jr. (Misty) Pierce, Kensett, Theresa Pierce-Dean, Northwood; grandchildren, Bryan (Melinda Council) Pierce, San Diego, Calif., Sarah (Jared Chipps) Pierce, Hurricane, W.Va., Levi Gibler, Milwaukee, Wis., Rachel Myrick, Mason City; great-grandchildren, Audrey Lyrik Pierce, San Diego, Calif., Dustin Myrick and Simona Myrick, Mason City; brothers, Frank Pierce, Thompson, David (Rose) Pierce, Cedar Falls; sisters, Rose Dishong, Fairmont, Minn., Phyllis Dickhuis, Garner, and Faye (Charles) Greiman, Garner; brother-in-law, Paul Palmer, Bentonville, Ark., and Larry Koenen, Bentonville, Ark.; sister-in-law, Bonnie Pierce, Mason City along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Loretta Palmer, Marjorie Christiansen, and Betty Koenen; brothers, Robert and Richard Pierce; sister-in-law, Arlene Pierce; brothers-in-law George Dishong and Marvin Dickhuis.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, 641-423-2372, www.colonialchapels. com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 26 to December 27, 2011

LIVERMORE - Charles J. Berte, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, Christmas evening, in his home.

A Funeral Mass of The Resurrection will be celebrated by Rev. James Tigges on Friday, Dec. 30, at 10:30 a.m. in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Livermore, Iowa.

Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery with military rites conducted by the Otto-Field American Legion Post No. 415 of Livermore.

Visitation will be held on Thursday at The Lentz Funeral Home in Algona from 4-8 p.m., with a 4 p.m. Rosary and a 7 p.m. Scripture Service.

The Lentz Funeral Home in Livermore is serving the family, exclusive provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.

Condolences may be left at www.lentzfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 27 to December 28, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - William F. "Bill" Burke, 86, of Clear Lake, died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, at home.

A memorial Mass will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 1001 Ninth Ave. S., Clear Lake. Monsignor Joseph J. Slepicka will celebrate the Mass. Inurnment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Military rites will be provided by the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association.

The family will greet friends from 4-6 p.m. Thursday at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa or donor's choice. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com

Arrangements: Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, IA 50401, 641-423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 28, 2011

LITTLE CEDAR -Esther A. Doane, 99, of Little Cedar, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at the Faith Nursing Home in Osage.

Celebration of Life Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at Little Cedar United Methodist Church in Little Cedar with Pastor Gary Gilbert officiating. Burial will be in Liberty Cemetery at Little Cedar.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Thursday at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.

Esther was born March 19, 1912, in Hazelton Township, Buchanan County, Iowa, and was the oldest daughter of Kyle and Elsie (Shephard) Eastman. Esther married Leonard Doane on May 1, 1937, in Osage. They farmed northeast of Little Cedar from 1937 until their retirement. Esther also worked as a cook for the Little Cedar School and was a member of the Little Cedar United Methodist Church. She resided at the family farm from 1937 until 2007, when she moved to Faith Assisted Living in Osage.

Esther is survived by two sons, Wayne "Jack" (Jeanette) Doane of El Cajon, Calif., Delbert "Dutch" (Carol) Doane of Little Cedar; two grandsons, Dan Doane and Steve Doane of El Cajon, Calif.; three granddaughters, Suzanne (John) Anderson of Moscow, Idaho; Rita Bunting of Indianola, and children, Alex, Trey and Cameron; Lynn Howe of Riceville, and children, Tyler and Olivia; two sisters, Lois Edgeton of Pine River, Minn., and Shirley Bucknell of Adams, Minn.; one brother, Herbert Eastman of Mankato, Minn.; and two sisters-in-law, Mildred Eastman and Sharon Eastman of Riceville.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leonard in 1985; one grandson, Robert Doane; one sister, Lelah Barnes; and six brothers, Dale, Clinton "Bus," Homer, Roger, Amos, and Jim Eastman. Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com.

Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, 641-732-3706.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 27 to December 28, 2011

LAKE MILLS - Mary M. (Fjelstad) Hamm, 68 of Lake Mills, died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, at Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City, from complications of a stroke.

Visitation with her family will be on Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, from 5-7 p.m. at Mittelstadt Funeral Home, 902 E Main in Lake Mills.

A private family service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011, with burial at Salem Memorial Cemetery.

You can contact the family with on-line condolences at www.mittelstadtfuneralhome.com, 641-592-0221.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 27 to December 28, 2011

She was preceded in death by her mother Delores Hollander.

Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 641-585-2685, www.petersenlundfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 26 to December 28, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - Jean L. Howell, 71, of 625 14th Ave. N., Clear Lake, went to be with her heavenly father, on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at Heritage Care Center, Mason City.

Memorial services will be held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 29, at Fullerton Funeral Home, 123 Second St. S.E., Mason City. A gathering for family and friends will be from 4-8 p.m. today, Wednesday, Dec. 28, at the funeral chapel. Officiating will be Dima Krull. Inurnment will be in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Jean Howell Memorial Fund. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com.

Jean Louise was born the second child of five, to Edward and Stella Louise (Van Laningham) Tosel in Mason City. She graduated high school in Sedro-Woolley, Wash., in 1959. She then attended beauty school at La James College in Mason City.

On Oct. 5, 1963, she was united in marriage to John Howell in South Dakota and later divorced. To this union were born two children, Eric and Penny.

Jean worked at various jobs in North Iowa, and for 24 years she worked for Libby Owens, and then retired after 10 years with Minnesota Rubber, both of Mason City.

She grew up, was baptized and dedicated at the Open Bible Church, in Mason City. During her younger years she loved to swim with her grandchildren at State Park, crocheted, snowmobiled, golfed and spent many nights dancing at the Country Crossroads in Manly. She loved watching and feeding the birds at home.

Those surviving Jean include her two children, Eric and his wife Linda Howell, Garner, Penny Kern, Mount Pleasant, Iowa, three grandchildren Jamie Howell and her friend Tiffany Creekmur, Mason City; Coty Howell, Garner; Nicholas (Melissa) Axiotis, Chaparral, N.M. ; and three great grandchildren Chloee Howell, Sidney and Joseph Axiotis, four siblings Gary (Julie) Tosel, Omaha; Dima (Butch) Krull, Ankeny, Judy (Dennis) Schmidt, Mason City; Kevin Tosel, Chandler, Ariz.; and nieces, nephew, and great nieces and nephews.

Her father, Edward in 2011, ex-husband and friend John Howell in 2008, and grandson, Christopher Axiotis in 1999 preceded her in death.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 123 Second St. S.E., Mason City, Iowa 50401-3904 641-423-8676, www.Fullertonfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 26 to December 28, 2011

LAKE MILLS - Robert D. Kvale, 82, of Lake Mills, died Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011, at Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 30, at Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills with Vicar Melinda McCluskey officiating. Burial will be in Sunnyside Cemetery in Lake Mills, with military honors conducted by the Otto/Chose Post No. 235.

Visitation will be on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, from 5-7 p.m. at Mittelstadt Funeral Home, 902 East Main Street in Lake Mills, and will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

Robert Duane Kvale was born on a farm northwest of Lake Mills, on Nov. 8, 1929, to Rudolph B. and Olga T. (Mostrom) Kvale. He was baptized at North Prairie Lutheran Church on Dec. 8, 1929, by Rev. Frethiem, and was confirmed at Salem Lutheran Church by Rev. Blegen.

He attended country school through eighth grade and graduated from Lake Mills High School in the class of 1948. He worked as a farm hand the summers of 1950 and 1951. In October of 1951, Robert was inducted in to the United States Army. He took 16 weeks of basic training at Indiantown, Pennsylvania, and then on Easter Sunday in 1952, he was shipped to Bremer Haven, Germany. Robert then went to Erlangen, Germany, where he was assigned to the 48AAA at AW Sp. Battery D. He was a halftrack driver for three months, and them as a tank driver until September of 1953, when he returned to the States. In October, Robert was released from the Army at Camp Fort Sheridan, Ill. He got a ride to Chicago and took the train to Mason City where he was met by his parents and niece Rozanne Ellwood.

Robert farmed with his Dad until March 1, 1955, when he and his brother, Vernell, started farming 5 miles east of Lake Mills.

On March 20, 1955, Robert and Shirley Meyers were married at the Belmond Baptist Church in Belmond, by the Rev. Roliene. Robert and Shirley had two daughters born on Dec. 1, 1959, and July 23, 1966.

In September of 1974, the family moved into Lake Mills where Robert went to work for the creamery. He delivered dairy products to the school, nursing home, grocery stores, and cafes. He also had two house routes. After two years at the creamery, he began to work at Jerry's Foodland. In 1986, Jerry sold the store to David Fjelstad, and Robert worked at David's until September of 1987. He then went to work at Fleetguard Filtration, retiring in February of 1997.

He enjoyed spending his time woodburning art, drawing pictures with his grandchildren, and sharing jokes with his friends and family.
"Too small to be a man; too big to be a kid."

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Shirley Kvale; two daughters, DeAnn (Don) Peterson, and Raejean (Santos) Garcia, all of Lake Mills; four grandchildren, Shane (Tanya Steele) Peterson, Wade (Ashley Hacker) Peterson, Monica (Dylan Peace) Peterson, and Armani Garcia; and four great-grandchildren, Shae, Grayson, Savannah, and Kennadee. He is also survived by a brother, James (Gloria) Kvale of Lake Mills; ; a sister, Doris (Dick) Ellwood of Sun City, Ariz.; sisters-in-law, Violet Kvale of Lake Mills, Ida Mae Boyd of Des Moines, Thelma Pals of Clear Lake, Ardis Quandt of Hatton Wash., and Arlene Meyers of Holmen, Wis.; a brother-in-law, Anthony (Marge) Meyers of Seattle, Wash.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudy and Olga Kvale; two brothers, Vernell Kvale, and another in infancy; and Shirley's siblings, Helen, Gertrude, Geraldine, Amy, Ruth, Harm, Lawrence, Henry, and Allen Lee.

You can contact the family with online condolences at www.mittelstadtfuneralhome.com, 641-592-0221.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 26 to December 28, 2011

GREENE - A funeral mass for Vena Gail Poppe, of Greene will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, December 29, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Greene with the Rev. Monsignor Walter Brunkan officiating. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m., today, Wednesday, Dec. 28, with a Scriptural Wake service at 7 p.m. at Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. 1st Street, Greene, and will continue at the church one hour before the service.

Vena Gail Sours was born Feb. 18, 1922, three miles east of Marble Rock, Floyd County, Iowa, the daughter of Clifton E. and Vera M. (Bower) Sours and died Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011, at the Leibe Care Center in Greene. She was almost 90 years old.

She received her education in the Union Township No. 10 Country School, Floyd County and graduated from Marble Rock High School in 1940. Vena Gail lived at home until she was 21 years old. She enjoyed farming with her father and especially loved having her pony to ride for 18 years. Vena Gail was married then divorced from Urban Kelly. The couple was blessed with two children.

She was united in marriage to Dale E. Poppe, Oct. 4, 1968. Dale was from Greene and a field representative for P.A.G. Seed Corn Company.

Vena Gail worked along side Dale for many years. In 1972 and 1973 they drove school bus for the Greene Community Schools. In 1974 the couple started delivering Winnebago Motor Homes all over the United States for Winnebago Industries. They delivered to every state in the United States and made four trips to Alaska and extensively in Canada. Vena Gail also transported Winnebagos by caravan to Mexico many times in a three year period. In her 12 years of driving, she accumulated 253,497 miles. Due to health issues, she was forced to give up driving.

Once able to resume work, she and Dale were hired as Regional Directors for W.I. Traveler's. They were responsible for the entire eastern portion of the United States. She and Dale wintered in Florida, Texas, Arizona, California, New Mexico and Oregon for over 23 years. They spent two months in Alaska, three weeks in Maritime Province and Prince Edward Island, Canada. They were avid fishermen at Leach Lake every summer. She and Dale were Captain and Head Hostess on the "Spirit of Greene" which was a 46-passenger paddle wheel boat that toured the Shell Rock River in Greene. They held their positions from 1988 to 1995.

Vena Gail became fully involved with St. Mary Catholic Church following her driving career. She was a C.D.A. member for 44 years and served as president. She was also a member of St. Lucy's Circle and was president for many years. Vena Gail was a member of the Women's Club and the Handicraft Club.

Her interests included traveling, making crafts and playing cards. She was very involved with her family and loved all the family gatherings. Vena Gail enjoyed picnicking, hiking, attending school functions and sporting events.

She is mourned by two children: Joyce Ann Kelly (Jim) Klunder, Paul E. (Dianne) Kelly; three step-children: Dale Poppe, Jr.; Dean M. (Ruth Ann) Poppe and Sharon (Don) Hunt; 10 grandchildren: Jimmy, Joe, Jason, Justin, Jennifer, Jayne Klunder Zwanziger; Paulie, Brian, Laura Kelly Greier; Chris Rowe and 21 plus great grandchildren; sister: Norma Hall; brother: Calvin (Carol) Sours; sisters-in-law: Evalyn Nettleton and Diane Hartman.

She is preceded in death by her husband: Dale; parents, one brother: Claire, nephew: Clifton Sours; sisters-in-law: Vi Tack, Lucille Sours and brothers-in-law: Clair Nettleton and Bud Hall.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Vena Gail Poppe Memorial Fund in care of the family at 244 South Water Ave., New Hampton, IA 50659.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St., Greene, www.reidsfuneralchapel.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 23 to December 28, 2011

LAKE MILLS - Betty Y. Schmidthuber, 83, of Lake Mills, died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills, Iowa, from cancer.

A memorial service for Betty Schmidthuber will be held at a later date at Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills.

Betty wished to be cremated and her ashes will be placed to rest at Salem Memorial Cemetery, rural Lake Mills.

Betty Yvonne (Lukecart) Schmidthuber was born on Jan. 19, 1928, in Hutchinson, Minn., to Cecil and Leone (Fisher) Lukecart. She grew up and attended schools in Albert Lea, Minn.

On July 17, 1954, Betty was united in marriage with Dale R. Schmidthuber in Mason City. They moved to Lake Mills during a blizzard on March 10, 1956.

Betty worked at Deluxe Manufacturing in Lake Mills for many years before she fulfilled a dream to become a hairstylist. On March 11, 1976, she graduated from Capri Cosmetology College in Mason City, Iowa. Upon graduation and receiving her license from the State of Iowa she opened Betty's Hair Styling on Main Street in Lake Mills. Betty had her salon until she retired and then she was able to enjoy her passion of golf with Dale and their many friends.

Betty is survived by her husband, Dale of Lake Mills; two children, Karen Christensen of New Mexico and Lee Schmidthuber of Pennsylvania; five grandchildren, Jodi Christensen of Texas, Joshua Christensen of New Mexico, Amy Schmidthuber, Taylor Schmidthuber and Sam Schmidthuber of Pennsylvania; three great-granddaughters, Jordyn Yates of Texas, Celia Christensen and Gabriela Christensen of New Mexico; two sisters-in-law, Marjorie Lukecart of Albert Lea, Minn., and Doris Stamatelos of West Des Moines; a brother-in-law, Leo Schmidthuber of Lake Mills, Iowa; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by one son Craig Schmidthuber; her parents; three brothers, Kenneth Lukecart, Marshall Lukecart, and Robert Lukecart; a sister, Dorothy Lukecart McFarland; and several brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Betty's family would like to thank and pay a special tribute to Nancy and Rick Oltman … Betty always referred to Nancy as her guardian angel.

You can contact the family with online condolences at www.mittelstadtfuneralhome.com, 641-592-0221.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 28, 2011

WESLEY - Lillian Ellen Stalzer, 95, of Wesley died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center- North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 29, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Wesley with Father Peter Duc Jung Nguyen officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m., today, Wednesday at the Cataldo Funeral Home, 178 First Ave. S.W., in Britt with a rosary at 4 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Lillian Ellen Stalzer, the daughter of William, Jr., and Lillian (Presnel) Tiebe, was born Nov. 19, 1916, on a farm near Primrose. She attended rural school until the eighth grade and then worked in home health care for the elderly in the area.

On Dec. 27, 1951, she was married to Cletus A. Stalzer at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Wesley. They lived on a farm east of Wesley where she was a homemaker and assisted her husband, Cletus, in their refrigeration business. In 1978, they moved into Wesley and added an appliance store to their refrigeration business. In 1989 they retired from the business.

After Cletus passed away in March of 2000, she continued to live at home with the help of her family. She enjoyed reading, listening to talk radio, gardening and working with animals.

She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

Lillian is survived by her five children, Jerry (Karen) Stalzer of Fort Madison, Cecil Stalzer of Clear Lake, Raymond Stalzer of Wesley, Wayne (Christina) Stalzer of Cedar Falls and Edwin Stalzer of Wesley; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Gladys Stalzer of Dallas, Texas, Alice Stalzer of Livermore and Josephine Stalzer of Madison, S.D.; and brothers-in-law, Leroy Stalzer of Kanawha and Earl Stalzer of Humboldt.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Cletus; daughter, Joyce Stalzer; and sisters, Ruth Tiebe and Irene Pyle.

Cataldo Funeral Home, 641-843-3811, www.cataldofuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 27 to December 28, 2011

STACYVILLE - Walter Joseph Adams, 80, of Stacyville, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, at Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville, Iowa, with Father Jack McClure, CPPS, officiating. Burial will be in Visitation Catholic Cemetery with military honors at the grave by American Legion Hale Penney Fuller Post 569 of Stacyville.

Friends may greet the family from 4-7 p.m. Friday at Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville with a rosary at 4:30 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Walter was born April 24, 1931, at Stacyville, Iowa, to Ernest and Clara (Thome) Adams. He graduated from Visitation High School in Stacyville in 1949. He worked for a water tower painting company in Cresco, Iowa, right out of high school, and Hatten and Sons and Stacyville Lumber Company when he returned from serving his country.
He served in battle during the Korean Conflict from 1951 to 1953 when he was honorably discharged. On April 24, 1954, he married Joan Ulven of Austin, Minn., at Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville.

Walter began his own painting and decorating business in 1963, painting barns, houses, interior decorating, interiors of area churches and lettering signs. Walter served on the Stacyville Fire Department for 60 years and was very proud of the new fire station. He served as chaplain of the American Legion Hale Penney Fuller Post 569 of Stacyville, taking care to put out the flags on Memorial Day, and kept records of the cemetery plots.

He served as a Cub Scout leader for several years, receiving the Scouter's Key. He served on the Commercial Club and was instrumental in the formation of the annual Stacyville Bratwurst Daze when the carnival came to town.

Following in his father's footsteps, he was the custodian of the Stacyville Cemetery located west of Stacyville and took pride in its upkeep and gathering history of those buried there.

Walter's favorite holiday was Christmas, enjoying seeing generations of children visiting with Santa for over 60 years. He enjoyed getting together with his family every Friday night for beer and cards.

Walter is survived by his wife, Joan Adams of Stacyville; his children, Julie (Allyn) Brumm of Stacyville, Janet (Gerry) Probst of Appleton, Wis., Jay (Mary) Adams of Stacyville, Jude (Kenny) Adams of Stacyville, Jo (Brian) Saltou of Riceville and Julene (Randy) Mueller of Stacyville; grandchildren, Corissa Meek, Allison Hemann, Scott Brumm, Michelle Gossen, Carie Fischer, Candi Probst, Cathy Rosenow, Paula Beyer, Kyle Adams, Kory Adams, Kelly Adams, Ray Mueller, Sarah Mueller; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Alexis Meek, Raelei and Austin Hemann, Bryanna Vokoun, Abbey, Avery and Aidan Gossen, Anna Hatton and Gavin Fischer, Breahna and A.J. Rosenow, Spencer and Madison Beyer.

He is also survived by a brother, Ted (Carol) Adams of Rochester, Minn.; sisters, Theresa (Dale) Mauer, Louise Walk and Veronica (Ken) Koenigs, all of Stacyville; brothers-in-law, Duane Ulven of Austin, Minn., and Donald (Marion) Ulven of Buffalo, Mo.; sisters-in-law, Jane Gerbig of Stacyville and Sherry (Darrell) Kroneman of Austin, Minn.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Eugene Adams; a brother-in-law, Larry Walk; and a nephew and a niece.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com.
Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, 641-732-3706.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 28 to December 29, 2011

SHEFFIELD - Irene Velma (Priebe) Birkholz, 91, of Sheffield passed away Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011, at the Rockwell Community Nursing Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:45 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, at Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Sheffield with the Rev. G. Kim Wills presiding. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery in Charles City.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Friday at Retz Funeral Home, Sheffield.

Irene Velma (Priebe) Birkholz was born Sept. 23, 1920, to Herman and Wilhelmina (Hemker) Priebe in Dresden Township, rural Fredericksburg. She was baptized at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Boyd, Iowa, on Oct. 17, 1920. Irene attended rural school near Fredericksburg until moving to Charles City in 1927, where she attended public schools until her graduation in 1938. During her senior year she worked at the Iowa State Employment Agency and later at the Oliver plant in Charles City.

Irene was united in marriage with William (Ed) Birkholz at Spencer on Sept. 7, 1940. They moved to the family farm near Oakwood raising hogs, cattle and chickens, producing hatching eggs for Hoover Hatchery for 38 years. They moved to a farm in St. Charles Township in 1956 and Sheffield in 1970 and continued farming until retiring in 1980.

After retirement, summer months were often spent in northern Minnesota camping and fishing and winter months were spent in Harlingen, Texas. Traveling was discontinued in 1989 because of health problems.

In 1970 Irene became a member of Zion St. John Lutheran Church in Sheffield. Many hours were spent on mission projects, quilts, layettes, mittens, clothing protectors for the Care Center along with fellowship. She remained active her entire life, living on the farm at Sheffield until May of 1996 when she fell and broke her hip. Then she moved to the Rockwell Community Nursing Home where she loved to play rummikub, cards and doing some reading. She enjoyed the staff at the care center and the activities that kept her busy. Collecting stuffed animals became one of her favorite things to do.

Irene is survived by a daughter, Patricia (Marnie) Will, Mankato, Minn.; son, David (Mary Lou) Birkholz, Palestine, Texas; 6 grandchildren, 14 great- grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Gladys Nelson, Charles City. She is also survived by her Special Iowa Family.

She is preceded in death by her parents and husband, Ed, in 1997, and one sister, Mable Sido.

Retz Funeral Home, www.retzfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 26 to December 30, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - William F. "Bill" Burke, 86 of Clear Lake died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, at home.

A memorial mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 1001 9th Avenue South, Clear Lake. Msgr. Joseph J. Slepicka will celebrate the Mass. Inurnment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Military rites will be provided by the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association.

The family will greet friends from 4-6 p.m. Thursday at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City. Memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa or the donor's choice. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Bill was born Nov. 11, 1925, in Mason City, the youngest of three children of Dr. Thomas A. and Elizabeth J. (Price) Burke. He graduated from Mason City High School in 1943 and the University of Iowa in 1949 where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity.

Bill served as a U.S. Navy medic in the Pacific during WW II and was honorably discharged in May of 1946. After college Bill lived in Florida in the West Palm area for almost twenty years where he worked in sales. He returned to Mason City in 1968, working in sales for Tyler-Ryan Furniture, S&R Chevrolet and retiring from Guardian Photo in 1992.

Bill married Marcia Kerr Doughman on April 13, 1973, in St. Louis Park, Minn., and they moved to Clear Lake in 1973. He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church.

Bill deeply loved his family and friends and they all loved him because of his kind, generous and caring nature and his wonderful sense of humor. Bill had a joke or quip for every occasion. He loved living on Clear Lake and not a day passed that Bill didn't appreciate the view of the water and sky.

One of Bill's passions was driving, whether it was his classic Corvette, his boat, his motorcycle or a plane. Red was his favorite color. Bill loved to dance with Marcia, especially to the music of the big bands at the Surf Ballroom.

Bill was on the first Honor Flight from North Iowa-Winnebago recognizing WWII Veterans from Mason City to Washington, D.C., in 2009.

Bill is survived by his wife, Marcia K. Burke of Clear Lake; children, Deb (Roger) Samson of Nevada, Iowa, David Doughman (Lindsay Parker) of Corvallis, Oregon, Sheri Doughman (Joe Larson) of Minneapolis, Minn., and Rich Doughman of Mason City; grandchildren, Allison and Rick Samson, Jessica Alonzo and Ariel Doughman, Peter and Jack Larson; 4 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Thomas A. Burke Jr.; and sister, Kathryn Ann Harrer.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice of North Iowa for their kindness and compassionate care.

Arrangements: Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City, Iowa 50401, 641-423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 28 to December 29, 2011

OSAGE - Irwin Richard Hardy, age 85, of Osage, died Tuesday, December 27, 2011, at his residence in Osage.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage with Pastor Gary Gilbert officiating. There will be a flag presentation by Osage American Legion Post 278.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4-7 p.m. Monday at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home. Inurnment will be at a later date at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in Belmond.

Irwin Richard Hardy was born July 4, 1926, at Clarion, the son of Wesley and Charlotte (Rumford) Hardy. He attended grade school at Grant Number 8 and graduated from Clarion High School. He participated in wrestling and was a state qualifier in 1944. In the winter of 1944 he enlisted in the Air Cadet program and was called into active duty on January 1, 1945. He took basic training at Keesler Field in Biloxi, Mississippi, and went to gunnery school at Fort Meyers, Florida. Irwin spent most of 1946 at Erlangen, Germany, with the Army of Occupation.

On Feb. 17, 1947, he married Nelda Fulton at St. Francis Xavier Rectory in Belmond. Irwin worked for Tomco Hybrids and then as an assistant hog buyer for Armour and Co. in Belmond until being transferred to the plant at Mason City in 1951.

In 1964, the family moved to a farm near Stacyville, Iowa, where they lived until moving to Osage in 1981, where he resided until his death.

Along with farming, Irwin worked at the Stacyville Co-op Elevator, McIntire Feed and Grain, and Lenth Feed Store. After moving to Osage, he worked for A to Z Drying.

Irwin was active in the "Right to Life" movement and his poem, "Precious Ones," is engraved on a stone at Immaculate Conception Church in Riceville, Iowa. He enjoyed watching sports and his fantasy football league, as well as going to his grandchildren's activities.

He had a heart for the Lord and was happy and delighted to serve others.

Irwin is survived by his daughter, Charlotte Lusk of St. Ignatius, Mont., and her daughters, Mollie and Sarah; his daughter, Molly (Karl) Jensen of Mitchell; his son, Fred (Paula) Hardy of Stacyville, and their children, Susan and Wesley; and his son, Leslie (Sara) Hardy of Orchard, and their children, Rachel and Danny.

He had three great-grandchildren as well, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nelda, in 2008; his son-in-law, Roland Lusk; his parents; two brothers and three sisters; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com.
Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, 641-732-3706.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 29 to December 30, 2011

NEW HAMPTON - Mary S. Dreckman, 71, of New Hampton died, Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011, at Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City, Iowa, surrounded by her family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph's Center in New Hampton with Father Mark Osterhaus celebrating the Mass. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery at New Hampton.

Visitation will be from 3-8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.

Online condolences for Mary's family may be left at www.conwaymarkhamfh.com. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 30, 2011

CHARLES CITY -Donald Duesenberg, 87, of Charles City died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011, at the Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

Funeral services for Donald Duesenberg will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at the Rudd United Methodist Church in Rudd. Pastors Jerry Avise-Rouse and Wendy Johannesen will officiate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens at Charles City.

Visitation will be Friday at the church an hour prior to the service.

Donald Fredrick Duesenberg was born Dec. 6, 1924, at Rockford, the son of Benjamin and Myrtle (Gauger) Duesenberg. He received his education at Council Bluffs. On June 14, 1953, he was united in marriage to Betty Fluhrer. They farmed all their lives near Rudd, retiring in Charles City. Donald was a member of the Rudd United Methodist Church. His interests included playing basketball, putting puzzles together and traveling. Donald will always be remembered for his love of John Deere tractors.

Living family members include his wife, Betty Duesenberg of Charles City; a son, Russell Duesenberg of Long Beach, Calif.; a daughter, Ruth (Dexter Alexander) Duesenberg of Oklahoma City, Okla.; and a brother-in-law, Bill (Pat) Fluhrer of Charles City.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The Hauser Funeral Home, in Charles City, 641-228-2323, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 30, 2011

MASON CITY - Sheila A. Infante, 64, of Mason City died Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 714 N. Adams Ave., with the Rev. Michael Schuller as Celebrant. Committal services will follow in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

Visitation will be held Friday evening, Dec. 30, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St. N.E., Mason City, from 5-7 p.m.

Should friends desire, memorials may be left in Sheila's name in care of her family.

Sheila Ann Knowles was born on April 12, 1947, in Fort Dodge, the daughter of Harvey and Velma (Collins) Knowles. She attended Fort Dodge and Mason City high schools.

On Sept. 30, 1966, Sheila was united in marriage to Albert Infante in Sioux Falls, S.D.; this union would be blessed with two children. Sheila was a tremendous mother, and in later years a grandmother. Her world revolved around her family - her husband, children, and grandchildren. Sheila was always very involved in their activities and athletics, no matter the sport Sheila was in the stands to cheer them on!

In her younger years Sheila enjoyed horseback riding, and even though she no longer rode horses she still had a fondness for them. She also liked meeting her friends for coffee, and anyone who knew Sheila knew she loved Elvis and was a huge fan.
Sheila's family and friends will remember her as a loving, caring and giving woman who always put the needs of others before her own.

Those grateful in sharing in her life are her husband, Albert Sr., Mason City; her children, Becky (Jeff) Thompson, Forest City, and Albert Jr. (Terri) Infante, Mason City; her grandchildren, Tyler and Timmy Thompson and Sierra and Gabe Infante; her siblings, Sandy Hebert, Fort Dodge, Sonia (Bob) Hampton, Charles City, and Martha (Jerry) Pitt, Omaha, Neb.; her sisters-in-law, Lupe (Guadalupe) Dianda, Mason City, and Jenny Garcia, Mason City; her brothers-in-law, Louis Infante, Mason City, and Val (Margaret) Infante, Mason City; her grand-dogs, Molly, Mo and Herky; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Sheila is preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Knowles and Velma Callender; her step-father, John Callender; her mother-in-law, Mercedes Infante; and her siblings, Bob and Fran.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St. N.E., Mason City, IA. 641-423-2372. www.colonialchapels.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 30, 2011

BEECHER, Wis. - Paul E. "Pat" Meaney, 73, of Beecher, Wis., passed away Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011.

He was born Nov. 8, 1938, in Cedar Falls to the late Cletus and Marie (Fandel) Meaney. After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he achieved the rank of Chief Warrant Officer II. He retired from the Navy in 1976 after serving 20 years. In 1983 he moved to Wisconsin and worked as a bus driver for the Beecher, Dunbar, Pembine School District until 2001. On July 11, 1987, he married Mary Wepner.

Pat is survived by his loving wife, Mary; three sons, Martin (Paulette) of Waxahachie, Texas, Paul of Waxahachie, Texas, and Daniel of Hemet, California; one daughter, Tricia (Don) Meade of Coeburn, Va.; two brothers, David of Kingston, Wash., and Cletus of Mason City; one sister, Mary Smith of Mason City; numerous grandchildren, nieces, aunts and uncles, and numerous special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be no service. Pat is listed in the Navy Log of the Navy Memorial. Donations will be given to the Navy Memorial and Vietnam Veterans.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.messarfuneralhome.com.
Messar Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Wausaukee is assisting the family with arrangements.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 30, 2011

BRITT - Kathleen "Kay" Pistek, 83, of Britt, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt with friends and family in prayer.

A Mass of Christian burial for Kay Pistek will be held on Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 139 Third Street S.E., in Britt with the Rev. Dennis Miller and Monsignor John Hemann officiating. Burial will be at St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Duncan.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, from 3-5 p.m. at Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West, in Britt. A combined Catholic Daughters of the Americas and Catholic Workmen rosary will be said at 3 p.m. A scriptural wake service will be held at 5 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Kay Chizek was born Sept. 24, 1928, at the family home in Britt to Joseph and Ella (Buckley) Chizek. Kay graduated from Britt High School in 1946 and received her teaching certificate at the college in Cedar Falls. Kay taught at the Garfield Township School.

On Aug. 25, 1949, she married Leonard Pistek and quit teaching to raise a family. Leonard and Kay lived on the family farm during their married life. Kay worked at the Britt Nursing Home and cared for both of her husband's parents in their home. Kay was a devoted spouse, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She enjoyed fishing with grandpa, teaching her grandchildren card games (500), doing the crosswords with her sisters, baking kolaches and was faithful to daily prayer.

Kay was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Court of St. Catherine of Siena No. 284 CDA, Rosary Guild, Catholic Workman and the Legion Auxiliary.

Those surviving Kay are her loving husband, Leonard of Britt; her children: Francis (Elaine) Pistek of Garner, Mary (Dennis) Hutchinson of Charles City, Carol (Dave) Moline of Waterloo, Leonard (Cindy) Pistek of Britt, Barbara (Bill) Swift of Dell Rapids, S.D., Joseph (Kim) Pistek of Albia, Theresa (Todd) Decker of Algona, Patricia (Paul) Birkey of Maplewood, Minn., Paul (Julie) Pistek of Plymouth, 37 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her sisters Irene Hiscocks, Rita Stevenson, Veronica Lawlor, Margie Jano and sister-in-law Dorothy Chizek.

Kay was preceded in death by her brother Virgil Chizek, her sister Rosella Daniels, brothers-in-law John Stevenson, Bill Hiscocks, Lester Daniels, a grandson-in-law Scott Koppes and an infant grandson.

Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West, Britt, Iowa 50423, 641-843-3839, www.ewingfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from December 30 to December 31, 2011

NORTHFIELD, Minn. -Dr. Timothy James Twito passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011.

He was born on June 9, 1957, in Albert Lea, Minn., to Donald and Dominy Twito. Tim was married to Deborah (Tomfeld) Twito on Dec. 18, 1999, in Grinnell, Iowa. He practiced general psychiatry for nearly 25 years, first at Park Nicollet Clinic in Burnsville, Minn., and the last 10 years at Allina Medical Clinic in Northfield, Minn.

Tim was preceded in death by grandparents Alfred and Agnes Kingland, Elmer and Regina Twito, and by his father-in-law, Madison Tomfeld.

He is survived by his loving wife, Deb, and devoted children, Sam (Alyssa), Isaac, Emma, Chris and Sarah; his parents, Donald and Dominy; and siblings, Eric Twito (Cyndi), Julie Gergen (Bill), Keith Twito and Sarah Crain (Clint); mother-in-law, Mary Tomfeld; nieces Anna and Emily Gergen, Grace Crain, and nephews Lucas Gergen and Jacob Crain, as well as many dear friends and colleagues.

Tim graduated in 1975 from Lake Mills High School and studied biology at Luther College, graduating in 1979. He obtained his medical degree at the University of Iowa and graduated in 1984. After an internship at Hennepin County Medical Center, he attended Yale University for three years as a psychiatry resident. He participated in a writing group for nearly 20 years, and will be remembered for his love of literature, writing and nature. Tim's kindness, intelligence, humor and devotion to family and friends will be remembered always.

A memorial service will be held mid-January, with date and time pending.

Contributions in Tim's memory can be made to Doctors Without Borders, Minnesota State Parks or S.A.V.E. The family would like to extend a heartfelt "thank you" to Dr. P.J. Flynn and the nurses who cared for him over the last 12 years.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 30, 2011

FORT DODGE - Roger Bode, 62, died Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines.

Memorial service for will be held Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Cecelia Catholic Church, Algona, with Father Edward M. Girres officiating. Inurnment will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Algona.

His family will greet friends from 9:30 a.m. Tuesday until time of the Mass at the church.

Online condolences may be made to www.oakcrestfuneralservices.com.
Oakcrest Funeral Services of Algona in charge of arrangements.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 31, 2011

NORA SPRINGS - Gary Ferch, 58, of Nora Springs, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, at his home in Nora Springs.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete with Sheckler Colonial Chapel, 114 N. Hawkeye Ave., Nora Springs, 641-749-2210, www.colonialchapels.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 31, 2011

GRAPEVINE, Texas - Kathlyn "Kathy" J. Houser died peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011.

Celebration of life will be Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at White's Chapel United Methodist Church, Southlake.

Born in Dover, N.J., on June 7, 1948. Graduated from Miami University in 1970 with a degree in Art Architecture. Received her Texas teaching certificate from Midwestern University.

She met her husband of 41 years, Dave, at Miami; they were married after graduation in August of 1970.

Kathy's number one passion was teaching and she loved her students very much. She taught kindergarten for 34 years in Texas, the last 17 years at Colleyville Elementary School. Kathy had an incredible capacity to remember "her kids' " as they grew and made it a point to attend their high school graduations.

Kathy sang competitively with the Mission Belles, the San Antonio chapter of the Sweet Adeline's and was a long time member of the White's Chapel choir, singing with them on a tour of Austria, as well as at the National Cathedral and Carnegie Hall. She was also a faithful member of her Sunday School class and had been on a mission trip to Mexico.

She was preceded in death by her father, William D. Killpack, a long time Rotarian and community leader in Mason City, Iowa.

Survivors include her mother, Lucille Killpack of Mason City; her husband Dave Houser of Keller, Texas; her sister Sandy Dominy of Houston and four brothers: Bill Killpack of Richmond, Va.; Bob Killpack of Albert Lea, Minn.; David Killpack of Hinsdale, Ill.; and Richard Killpack of Phoenix, Ariz.

Also surviving are two aunts, Mariellen Frank of Chagrin Falls, Ohio and Jane Burger of Bangor, Maine.

Kathy leaves a legacy of over 750 children who got their start and love of learning in "Mrs. Houser's Kindergarten Class." She will long be remembered and truly missed.

Donations honoring Kathy can be made to the Leukemia Society or to the "Friends of the Music Ministry" fund at White's Chapel UMC, Southlake, Texas.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 31, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Milton C. Obermeier, 92, of 509 First Avenue, Charles City, died Thursday Dec. 29, 2011, at the Floyd County Medical Center.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at First Congregational Church, Charles City. Officiating will be Dr. Forrest Cornelius.
Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Monday at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt, Charles City. Interment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, Charles City.

Milton was born on March 24, 1919, the son of Charles and Elda (Polzin) Obermeier. He graduated from Charles City High School in 1938 and attended Upper Iowa University where he played football until he entered the service in early 1942. During World War II he served as a gunnery instructor in the Army Air Force until his discharge in 1945.

He married Orpha Zidlicky on Feb. 4, 1944, in Lime Springs. Following his time in the service, he worked at Oliver White as a supervisor until retiring in 1981 after 35 years of service. He was active in his community, a member of the First Congregational Church, Oliver Athletic Board, and past-president of the Cedar Valley Ducks Unlimited Chapter.

Milton's passion for faith, family, friends and the great outdoors was evident throughout his 92 years. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, loved sports, playing cards and bowling which is what he was doing the day before his admission to the Hospital. He will always be remembered for his keen sense of humor to the end of life.
Milton is survived by two sons, John and William (Kathy) Obermeier; sister Colleen Darby; four grandchildren, Jerilyn Obermeier, Bobby Obermeier, Amy Kay and Michael Obermeier; and three great-grandchildren, Tyler Obermeier, Jerrod Ouzts, Katharinia Obermeier and his special friend and bowling partner, Helen Stonecypher.

He was preceded in death by his parents,, his wife Orpha in 2002 and brother Wendell in 2003.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be given to the First Congregational Church, Charles City Iowa.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt Street, Charles City, Iowa, 641-228-4211. www.fullertonfh.com Facebook.com/Fullerton funeralhome.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 31, 2011

HAMPTON - Dennis E. Smit, 73, of Hampton, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at his home in Hampton.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at the Zion Reformed Church rural Sheffield.

Visitation will be held Sunday from 2-5 p.m. at the Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton, Iowa. Burial will take place at the Zion Reformed Church Cemetery in rural Sheffield. The Rev. Arthur Zewert will be officiating.

www.sietsemavogelfuneralhomes.com, 641-456-3232.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 31, 2011

FOREST CITY - Rose Weiland, 83, of Forest City, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at her home in Forest City.

As per her wishes, her body has been cremated.

A "Celebration of Life" will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Jan. 6, 2012, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Forest City.

Inurnment will be held at a later date at Oak Grove Cemetery in Mitchell, Iowa.

Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 641-585-2685, www.petersenlundfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on December 31, 2011