MASON CITY - Teressa Adeline Kumsher Anderson, died Friday, Nov. 11, 2011, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City. Teressa celebrated her 101st birthday on Sept. 12, 2011.

A funeral Mass for Teressa will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 139 Third Street S.E., Britt, Iowa, with the Rev. Dennis Miller officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church on Saturday.

Teressa's family would like to suggest that those wishing to give a memorial in her memory may wish to consider memorial contributions be made to Hospice of North Iowa, or to a charity of ones choice.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third Street N.E., is in charge of the cremation.

Teressa was born on September 12, 1910, the fourth child of Mike and Stella (Cipera) Kumsher and was raised on the family farm south of Britt.

While in high school, Teressa began her work career as a telephone operator for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company in Britt, Iowa. During World War II, and while living in Garner, Iowa, Teressa resumed her career with Northwestern Bell until its closing. Teressa then transferred to Bell Telephone in Mason City, retiring in 1975, with 30 years of service. During her retirement years she did volunteer work at Mercy Hospital in Mason City, made Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, quilts and donated many lap blankets to Birth Right. She was a member of the Secret Pal Club which consisted of 12 ladies at Saint Boniface Catholic Church while living in Garner, and St. Joseph's Catholic Church after she moved to Mason City. She was a lifetime member of the Telephone Pioneers.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Linda (Jerry) Cook of LeClaire, Iowa; granddaughter, Kim (Eric) Lindquist of Rock Island, Ill., grandson, Brent (Amy) Cook of Allentown, Pa.; five great-granddaughters, Logan and Kaylee Jawoisz, of Rock Island, Ill., and Ashley, Abbey and Alexis Cook of Allentown, Pa.; two step-great-grandsons, Brandon and Juniper of Texas and Devin Lindquist of Rock Island, Ill. Also left to cherish her memory are thirteen nieces and nephews.

Teressa was preceded in death by her parents, Mike and Stella Kumsher; sisters, Clara Loy, Anna Kumsher; brothers, Ed Kumsher and wife Eva, Mike "Bud" Kumsher and wife Agnes and niece Evelyn Stalzer all of Britt.

Teressa was always there for here family and her two grandchildren, Kim and Brent were so special to her. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and her family will always treasure their time with her on this earth. May she rest in Peace.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 12 to November 16, 2011

LAKE MILLS - Sharon Nylene Brackey, 71, of Lake Mills, died Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011, at Saint Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 17, at Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills, Iowa, with Pastor David E. Jordon officiating. Burial will be in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, north of Scarville.

Visitation will be today, Wednesday, Nov. 16, from 4-7 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 Thursday.

Sharon Nylene Brackey was born on June 23, 1940, in Lake Mills, the daughter of Selmer and Nettie (Bergland) Thorson. She was baptized at Bethel Lutheran Church in Vinje, Iowa, and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scarville. She graduated from Scarville High School in 1958.

On June 30, 1962, Sharon was united in marriage with Leroy Brackey at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scarville. They had three children, Natalie, Lois, and Wayne.

Sharon started working at an early age. While still in high school she worked at the grocery store in Scarville. After graduation, she worked at Stamper's in Wells, Minnesota, and then at Deluxe in Lake Mills. After their children were born, Sharon was a full time housewife and mother until all the children were in school. Then she worked at the Lake Mills Care Center, and later at the Fleetguard Child Care Center until she retired. Sharon had the pleasure of spending a lot of time caring for her grandchildren.

She was very active in her church and often volunteered to play bingo with the residents at the Lake Mills Care Center. She enjoyed traveling with the family on vacations, and taking trips with Leroy after their family was grown. This year she was instrumental in getting the Thorson family farm recognized as a Century Farm at the Iowa State Fair. She loved to make scrapbooks for her children and grandchildren, and was very interested in genealogy.

She is survived by her husband, Leroy of Lake Mills, and their children, Natalie (Mike) Fell of Waseca, Minn., Lois (Mike) Jamtgaard of Lake Mills, and Wayne Brackey of Joice; and four grandchildren, Evan Fell and Joe, Samantha, and Christopher Jamtgaard. She is also survived by sisters and brothers, Arden (Delores) Thorson, Roger (Lynn) Thorson, and Nancy (Richard) Helland; sisters-in-law, Janice Winklbauer and Fern (Morris) Jones; brother-in-law Steven (Beverly) Brackey; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Selmer and Nettie Thorson, and an infant daughter, Sarah.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 14 to November 16, 2011

MASON CITY - Wayne A. Erland, 69, 4067 S. Federal Ave., Mason City, died Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, after a long illness.

At his request, there will be no visitation or memorial service. His body has been cremated. Inurnment will be at a later date in Clear Lake Cemetery.

Wayne was born Sept. 11, 1942, in Cedar Rapids, to Carol and Dorothy Erland. He spent his childhood on the family farm, and graduated from Vinton High School. In 1962, he and his wife Alice were married. They moved to North Iowa in 1971, first to Clear Lake, and in 1994 to Mason City. He owned and operated several businesses in the area, including All-State Drywall, and Celluspray Insulation LLC. He retired in 2004.
Wayne enjoyed maintaining his property and helping to improve his neighborhood. He also loved to fish, especially on the Mississippi, Pool 4, and sitting by a campfire enjoying a cold beer. He loved his family, including his little dogs, Eddy and Lily and was a friend you could count on.

He is survived by his wife Alice, of Mason City, his mother, Dorothy Erland of Branson, Mo., his sisters, Joyce Sullivan, Branson, Mo., Jan Barth (Maurice) also of Branson, Rita West (Louis) of Unionville, Mo., a brother, Larry Erland, Douglas, Ariz., and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, and his son Jeffrey Wayne Erland, who died July 10, 1980.

Memorials may be directed to the Humane Society of North Iowa, 2700 S. Birch Drive, Mason City, IA 50401, or Hospice of North Iowa, 232 Second St. S.E., Mason City.

Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from November 15 to November 16, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - Julie Rae Haberkorn, 54, of Clear Lake, died Friday, Nov. 4, 2011, with her parents and the caring staff at Wildwood Cottage (Opportunity Village) by her side.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, at Opportunity Village Gymnasium, 1200 N. Ninth St. West, Clear Lake, with Chaplain Janet Dorenkamp, Hospice of North Iowa, officiating.

Upon her wishes, she was cremated and there will be no visitation. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Opportunity Village. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com
Julie Rae Haberkorn was born Sept. 5, 1957, in Mason City, Iowa. Opportunity Village became her home in 1982. Julie brought love and laughter to everyone whose lives she touched.

Survivors include her parents, Jo and Jerry Lienemann, Fergus Falls, Minn., Don Haberkorn, Mason City; brothers, Dennis Haborkorn, San Carlos, Calif., Greg Haberkorn, Pilot Mound, and Jeff (Kelly) Haberkorn, Bunker Hill, W.Va.; niece, Sara Haberkorn and nephew, Kyle Haberkorn, Bunker Hill, W.Va. , aunts, uncles and cousins.

Julie passed much too soon, but her light will shine on in all our hearts.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Frank and Bernadine Long, Charles and Freda Haberkorn and Ben and Nora Lienemann; aunts, uncles and cousins.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 5 to November 16, 2011

FOREST CITY - RetaMae Lewis, 90, of Forest City, died Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, at the United Methodist Church in Forest City with Pastor Jerald Swanberg officiating. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery in Forest City.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday (today) at Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 505 N. Clark St., in Forest City, and will continue an hour prior to services at the church.

RetaMae Lewis, the daughter of Elmer and Bonnie (Dow) Brooker, was born July 28, 1921, at the home of her parents eight miles west of Forest City. When two years old, she moved with her parents and brother, Wayne, southeast of Forest City, where she lived until her marriage. She attended a rural school nearby and graduated from Forest City High School with a normal training certificate. Retamae later taught at a rural school.

On July 26, 1942, she married Lloyd Lewis. They moved to Austin, Minn., where he was employed at Hormel until called into service. She followed later to California when he was stationed in Fresno, Calif., and Santa Maria, Calif.

While there she was employed in Civil Service at the base of offices. They were moved to Orlando, Fla., base and to Montgomery, Ala., where he was discharged.

Returning home from the service, they lived and were employed in Britt. They then joined in a family partnership and started the original "Hi-Way-Market" in Forest City.
They later moved to Northwood, where Lloyd was employed in Nelson Hardware. RetaMae attended Mason City Junior College and taught school again until the arrival of their son Lonny Lee in December 1953. In 1954, the family moved to Belmond where they started the "Belmond Hardware." While there, they were joined by a second son, Spencer Ray, in December 1959. Because of health reasons the store was sold and they moved to Mason City where Lloyd was employed at Curries Hardware. RetaMae was employed at Penny's Store and Madison School as a para-professional. Moving back to Forest City in 1970, RetaMae was in the elementary school as a substitute teacher and teacher associate until she retired in 1990, after nineteen years.

RetaMae always enjoyed her home, family, five grandchildren, church work, Senior Citizens, gardening and camping. She was active in church and circles, Rebekah Lodge filling all stations and the Retired Teachers.

RetaMae is survived by her husband of sixty-nine years, Lloyd Lewis of Forest City; two sons, Lon (Nancy) Lewis and their daughter, Mary and Spencer (Janet) Lewis and their four daughters, Amanda, Kaitlyn, Bonnie and Rhiannon; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Wayne and his wife, Helen.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 14 to November 16, 2011

OSAGE - Stanley W. Pringnitz, 83, of Osage passed away Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, at the United Church of Christ in Osage with the Rev. Duane A. Lookingbill officiating and a flag presentation by the Osage V.F.W. Post 7920. Inurnment will be held at a later date.
There will be a gathering of family and friends from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 22, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.

Stanley was born Feb. 7, 1928, in Kanawha, the son of Frank and Minnie (Heinz) Pringnitz. He attended country school for eight years and graduated from Kanawha High School. Stanley served in the Army during the Korean War.

On April 23, 1955, he was united in marriage to Eunice Button at the First Congregational Church in Riceville. Stanley was a farmer, a fertilizer plant manager at McIntire and Grafton, and a salesman of feed and livestock products. He was a member of United Church of Christ, served on the Osage School Board for nine years, was a 4-H leader for seven years and was a lifetime member of the V.F.W.

Stanley and Eunice enjoyed spending 14 winters in Texas and traveling with friends and family. Stanley's hobbies included fishing, gardening, playing cards and having coffee with friends at Hardee's, Stangs and Kountry Kupboard. He had a passion for farming, agriculture and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren.

Survivors include, his wife, Eunice, of Osage; daughter, Diane (Wayne) Budding of Wilton; daughter, Kathy (Jim) Abens of Eau Claire, Wis.; son, Doug (Nancy) Pringnitz of Spirit Lake; son, Dick (Loni) Pringnitz of Nevada, Iowa; son, Scott (Deana) Pringnitz of Clarksville, Ohio; daughter, Wanda Hoven of Ankeny; and 16 grandchildren.

Stanley was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Arthur, Lloyd and Harley Pringnitz; sister, Evelyn Mehus; and infant sister, Cleva.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 14 to November 17, 2011

ALGONA - Carol Kay "Toots" Youngwirth, was born Nov. 20, 1937, at Algona, Iowa, to Joseph and Marjorie (Sparks) Goetz.

She attended country school through the sixth grade and graduated from Wesley High School in 1955. She attended Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls and taught school for three years in Corwith and Britt.

On June 5, 1958, Toots married John Youngwirth in Wesley. The couple lived in Germany for one and a half years until John was discharged from the service. They moved back to Wesley where they owned and operated Johnny's Grocery Store for 24 years. From 1990-2006, Toots was a rural mail carrier. In 2008, Toots and John celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Toots was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Wesley, the C.D.A., the St. Joseph's Guild, the Corwith-Wesley School Board, the Wesley Library Board, the Township Election Board, the American Legion Auxiliary, and a Cub Scout leader.

Toots enjoyed gardening, sewing, sports, biking, puzzles and hosting and entertaining family and friends.

Toots died of cancer on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, at the Hancock County Hospital in Britt at the age of 73.

Survivors include her husband John of Wesley, daughter Gail and husband Kim Rueter of Grand Junction, Iowa, and their children Kyle and Sean Kenan; daughter Dawn and her husband John Rasmussen of Wesley and their children, Devon (John) Kenyon and Patrick; great-grandchildren Connor and Carilyn Kenyon; son Ed and wife Staci of Lenexa, Kansas, and their children, Derek, Jill, Ryan, Natalie and Reese; son Joe and his wife Diana of Des Moines, Iowa, and their children, Ellie, Abbie and Emilie; son Tom and his wife Elizabeth of Windsor Heights, Iowa, and their children George, Hannah and Jack and daughter Jill and her husband Michael Chalfie of Shawnee, Kan., and their children, Lily, Luke and Grace.

Also surviving are two sisters, Joan Grandgenett of Wesley and Norma Biegger of Polk City, Iowa ,as well as a brother-in-law, Paul Kelly of Britt.

Toots was preceded in death by her parents and three siblings, Bill Goetz, Lois Weiland and Marlys Kelly.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Wesley, Iowa, Thursday, Nov. 17 with Father Tim Johnson and Father Peter Duc Hung Nguyen officiating.

Interment will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery, Wesley, Iowa.

Published in Globe Gazette from November 15 to November 16, 2011

MASON CITY - Sylvia Mae Boelman 93, of Mason City died Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, at the Good Shepherd Health Center, Mason City.

A prayer service will be held at the Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, on Saturday, Nov. 19, at 1 p.m. Burial will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.

Memorial contributions may be designated to the Good Shepherd Health Center in Sylvia's name.

Visitation will be held two hours prior to the prayer service at the funeral home.
Sylvia was born on June 23, 1918, in LaVerne, Iowa, to LeRoy and Alsena (Walkner) Smith. Raised on a farm in the LaVerne and Livermore area, she attended a country school and completed eighth grade. She worked as a housekeeper at a hotel in Mason City.

On Nov. 28, 1964, she was united in marriage to Roy Boelman in Meservey. Following her marriage, she became a homemaker and spent many years working at the Calvary Alliance Church which was once established in Mason City.

Sylvia was an avid reader and enjoyed cardinal birds. Her love for birds included a large extensive collection of birds at her home. She also enjoyed baking and was known for her delicious pies.

She is survived by her niece, Sandra (Vic) Streeby, Eldon; grand-nieces, Sherry (Jim) Chebuhar, Marshalltown, and Carrie (Tony) Teninty, Eldon; grand-nephew, Steven (Suzanne) Streeby, Eldon; and a special friend and cousin, Gladys Ritchie, Mason City.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Roy (1987); and three sisters, Izola, Adaline and Madaline Smith.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, Iowa 50401; 641-423-2372, www.colonialchapels.com

Published in Globe Gazette from November 14 to November 18, 2011

KASSON, Minn. - Baby Boy Christiansen, infant son of Shannon and Lori (Parkinson) Christiansen, was born and died on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, at Methodist Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 301 Eighth Ave. N.W. in Kasson, Minn. Burial will take place in North Shell Rock Cemetery, rural Northwood, Iowa.

Mittelstadt Funeral Home, 902 East Main Street in Lake Mills, is in charge of local arrangements.

Survivors include his parents, Shannon and Lori Christiansen of Kasson, Minn.; grandparents, Barb and Larry Parkinson of Lake Summerset, Ill., Roger Christiansen of Lake Mills, and Patricia and William Searles of Albert Lea, Minn.; aunts and uncles, Rob (Suzanne) Parkinson of Woodbury, Minn., Nicole Bourne of Omaha, Neb., Troy (Lisa) Christiansen of Kensett, Marnie (Mike) Mueller of Manly and Natalie (Josh) Hewitt of Rochester, Minn.; and many cousins and extended relatives.

He will be welcomed in Heaven by his grandmother, Fran Christiansen.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on November 17, 2011

MASON CITY - Charles O. "Orv" Gordon, 94, of Mason City, died Thursday, Nov. 16, 2011, at the Good Shepherd Health Center.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 21, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with Pastor Kathy Graves officiating.

A gathering of friends and family will be held 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Broadhus, Texas.

Memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Hospice of North Iowa or Good Shepherd Health Center. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, Iowa 50401; 641-423-0924.

Published in Globe Gazette from November 17 to November 18, 2011

WASHINGTON, Texas - Shari Lee Payne Irwin, 45, of Washington, Texas, died Friday morning, Nov. 11, 2011, at her home.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 18, at the Zion Reformed Church, rural Sheffield, Iowa, with burial in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Thursday at the Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton. The Rev. Arthur Zewert will officiate the service.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 12 to November 17, 2011

GREENE - Lois G. Kemming, 101, formerly of Greene, passed away in Anoka, Minn., on Monday, Nov. 14, 2011.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene, with Pastor Gary Hatcher officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene.

Visitation will be 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Greene.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St., Greene, 641-823-4457, www.reidsfuneralchapel.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 17, 2011

MADISON, Wis. - Robert Mealy, 53, of Madison, Wis., and formerly of Mason City, died Monday, Nov. 14, 2011, at his home in Madison of natural causes.

A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 21, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 714 N. Adams Ave., Mason City, with the Rev. Michael Schueller as celebrant. Interment will follow in the Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

Visitation will be held Sunday evening, Nov. 20, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, from 3-5 p.m., where the Catholic Daughters of America will recite the rosary at 5 p.m. followed by a scriptural wake service.

Should friends desire, Robert's family has asked memorials be given to a charity of their choice in Rob's name.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 17 to November 18, 2011

NEW VIENNA - Arthur A. Ries, 94, of New Vienna died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011.

Friends may call from 2-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, where a parish Scripture service will be held at 3 p.m., and may continue to call on Saturday at the church after 9 a.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna, Iowa, with burial in the church cemetery. The Rev. Carl Ries will officiate with the Rev. John O'Connor co-celebrating.

Survivors include his wife, Louise; 11 children, Father Carl Ries of Charles City, Judy Ries of Omaha, Neb., Nancy Ries of Downers Grove, Ill., Larry Ries of Dubuque, Susan (Steve) Shirk of Wilton, Doris (Al) Wessels of Dyersville, Dale (Karen) Ries of New Vienna, Barbara (Stan) Radio of Omaha, Neb., Donna (Dan) Drexler of Bettendorf, Sandra (Mike) Ries-Wandrey of Ankeny and Connie (Dennis) Deutmeyer of Rye, N.Y.; 27 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; four sisters, Loretta Brunsman of Dyersville, Bernice Gassmann and Alma Brunsman, both of Manchester, and Esther Steffen of Edgewood; and a sister-in-law, Alvina Ries of Dyersville.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on November 17, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Sue Wagoner, 92, of Charles City, died Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011, at Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

Funeral services for Sue Wagoner will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, at Trinity United Methodist Church. Pastor Jim Beranek will officiate. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Riverside Cemetery at Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, and Wednesday 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 from November 17 to November 18, 2011

MASON CITY - Gerald E. "Jerry" Wike, 70, of Mason City died Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, with the Rev. Steve Palo and the Rev. Kathy Graves officiating. Private family inurnment services will take place in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave.

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

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 13 to November 17, 2011

GREENE - Funeral Services for Lois G. Kemming, 101, of Coon Rapids, Minn., formerly of Greene, will be 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene with Pastor Gary Hatcher officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene.

Visitation will be 10-11 a.m, Saturday, Nov. 19, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Greene.
Lois Gladys Garvey was born July 7, 1910, in Minneapolis, Minn., daughter of Byron B. and Emma (Budd) Garvey, and entered her rest Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011.

She finished eighth grade and began working at Manning's Bakery in Minneapolis at age 12. She developed a wonderful relationship with many of the clientele, and continued to work there until age 24, at which point Lois moved to Charles City, where she met Walter D. Kemming.

On May 30, 1936, Walter and Lois were united in marriage at St. John's Lutheran Church in Charles City, The marriage was blessed with one child, Craig Kemming, now of Andover, Minn.

Lois enjoyed life as a homemaker, participating in church and school activities, mission band and Cub Scouts. In 1983 Lois moved to Coon Rapids, Minn., to be close to her son and daughter-in-law, and to help raise her two granddaughters.

Lois loved to cook and bake and was known for blessing others with her baked goods. She was a lover of all animals, especially dogs. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family.

Lois is survived by her son, Craig (Susan) Kemming; granddaughter, Jessica (Robert) Dass and Bethany Kemming; many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by husband, Walter; and brothers, George and Herman Garvey.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St., Greene; 641-823-4457, www.reidsfuneralchapel.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 18, 2011

KANAWHA - Jack Mewes, 75, of Kanawha, died Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Ewing Funeral Home in Kanawha.
Ewing Funeral Home, 118 East Second St., Kanawha, Iowa 50447; 641-762-3211, www.ewingfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 18, 2011

ROCK FALLS - Sam F. Donisi, 89, died Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011, at the IOOF Home, Mason City.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 22, at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, with the Rev. Kenneth B. Gehling officiating with full military honors conducted by members of the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association at the funeral home.

Inurnment will be in the Rock Falls Cemetery, Rock Falls.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service Tuesday at the funeral home.

Should friends desire, memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa and Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.
Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapels, 126 Third St. N.E, Mason City, IA 50401, 641-423-2372, www.colonialchapels.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 19, 2011

MASON CITY -Charles O. "Orv" Gordon, 94, of Mason City, died Thursday, Nov. 16, 2011, at the Good Shepherd Health Center.

A Celebration of Life will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 21, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, with Pastor Kathy Graves officiating.

A gathering of friends and family will be held 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Broaddus, Texas.

Memorials may be di-rected to Trinity Lutheran Church, Hospice of North Iowa or Good Shepherd Health Center. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Charles O. "Orv" Gordon was born May 25, 1917, in Lake Mills, the son of Otis T. and Clara (Savre) Gordon. He graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1934, Waldorf College, and the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce, where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity.

During World War II he served as a lieutenant junior grade in the United States Navy aboard the USS Pompon. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

He was united in marriage to Ruth Green on May 25, 1946. She preceded him in death on January 15, 1985.

Following the war, he was the owner/operator of Gordon Hardware in Lake Mills for nine years, after which time the family moved to Mason City. He was the Allstate Insurance Company general agent in Mason City for 31 years, retiring in 1986.

On June 20, 1987, he was united in marriage to Dorothy Smith. They lived in Clear Lake until returning to Mason City in 2004.

Orv's activities included Senior Chamber of Commerce of Clear Lake, V.F.W., and times spent at the lake home in Nisswa, Minn.

He was a past member of American Legion and Lions Club. He was proud of his Norwegian heritage and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church for over 50 years, where he enjoyed the Wednesday morning men's Bible study and many other activities.

Orv is survived by his wife, Dorothy of Mason City; daughters, Sharon Meyer and husband Bob of Mason City, and Linda Buzzetti of Deerfield Beach, Fla.; step-daughter, Kathy Bartilotta of Denver, Colo.; step-sons, Kip Smith and wife Sherrie of Helena, Mont., and Doug Smith and wife Jane of Barrington, Ill.; five grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Don Gordon and wife Ruth of Normal, Ill.; sisters-in-law, Janiece Gordon of Albert Lea, Minn., Allie Gordon of San Clemente, Calif.; brother-in-law, Bill Vinzant and wife Bonnie of Centerville; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Ruth in 1985; three brothers; and four sisters.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 17 to November 19, 2011

MADISON, Wis. - Robert Mealy, 53, of Madison, Wis., and formerly of Mason City, Iowa, died Monday, Nov. 14, 2011, at his home in Madison of natural causes.

A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 21, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 714 N. Adams Ave., Mason City, with the Rev. Michael Schueller as Celebrant. Interment will follow in the Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

Visitation will be held Sunday evening, Nov. 20, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, from 3-5 p.m., where the Catholic Daughters of the Americas will recite the Rosary at 5 p.m., followed by a Scriptural Wake service.

Should friends desire, Robert's family has asked memorials be given to a charity of their choice in Rob's name.

Robert Charles Mealy was born in Iowa City, Iowa, on May 24, 1958, the son of Carl Joseph Mealy and Alice (Norton) Mealy. Rob's early years were spent in Horicon, Wis.
His family moved to Mason City, Iowa, when he was ten years old. Rob graduated from Mason City High School in 1975. In 1979, he graduated from Iowa State University with a B.A. in Business. Many hours were spent working in his father's store, C & A Hobby Shop, where he was particularly interested in rockets and building model ships.

From 1982 until 1998, he worked as manager of Toys R Us stores in Los Angeles, Calif., San Diego, Calif., and Las Vegas, Nev.

During this time he opened two new stores for the company.

After a lengthy bout with brain cancer, Rob went back to Iowa State University and graduated with a degree in accounting. For the past ten years he has worked for Wal-Mart in Madison where along with his other duties, he took pride in playing the role of Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny.

Throughout his life he was a devoted player of board games and cards. In his younger years he was active in many sports, including bowling, basketball, hockey and football. He was an avid sports fan, and especially enjoyed rooting for the Packers, Twins, Cyclones, and Badgers. Before his cancer he enjoyed hiking camping and hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon multiple times. He never lost his joy of traveling. There were many challenges, injuries, and illnesses that he endured without complaint.

Rob had a kind heart and generous nature and was always there to help others. He particularly enjoyed time spent with family and friends. His faith, courage, determination and sense of humor were an inspiration to all. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Those left to cherish his memory are his mother, Alice Mealy, Mason City, his brother, Carl Mealy and wife, Cynthia, Seattle, Wash.; sisters, Cindy Mealy and her husband, Bob Steinberg, Verona, Wis., Cathy Shea and her husband Kevin, Cedar Rapids, and Ann Janechek and her husband, Lon, Independence; nieces and nephews, Katie Shea, Nick Schilke, Matt Shea, Ben Schilke, Mandy Schilke, Megan Shea, Teresa Mealy, Lisa (Janechek) Klein and her husband Matt, Tim Mealy, Mike Janechek, Brian Shea, and Tedrick Mealy; as well as his extended family, and his many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date in Madison, Wis.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from November 17 to November 19, 2011

DENVER, Colo. - Anita J. Orvick, 90, of Denver, Colo., died Monday, Nov. 14, 2011, in Colorado.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 22, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Ave.,with the Rev. Jim Magelssen officiating.

Upon her wishes, she was cremated and there will be no visitation. Inurnment will be in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Anita J. Orvick Memorial Fund in care of the family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, IA 50401, 641-423-0924.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 19, 2011

ROCK FALLS - Margaret J. Byington, 79, of rural Rock Falls, died Friday, Nov. 18, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center North Iowa.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Nov. 23, at the Old Stone United Methodist Church in Rock Falls, with Pastors Wendy Johannesen and Jerry Abise-Rouse officiating. Interment will be in the Rock Falls Cemetery.

Visitation will be Tuesday Nov. 22, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Old Stone United Methodist Church and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be directed to the Margaret J. Byington Memorial Fund in care of the family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City, Iowa 50401, 641-423-0924.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 20, 2011

ROCK FALLS - Sam F. Donisi, 89, died Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011, at the IOOF Home, Mason City.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 22, at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third Street N.E., Mason City, with the Reverend Kenneth B. Gehling officiating with full military honors conducted by members of the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association at the funeral home.

Inurnment will be in the Rock Falls Cemetery, Rock Falls.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service Tuesday at the funeral home.
Should friends desire, memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa and Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.

Sam Fred Donisi was born May 28, 1922 in Dayton, Ohio, the son of Stephano and Nancy Donisi. He enlisted into the United States Army in 1941, serving in the 353rd Combat Engineers, attached to a Marine Battalion, in the South Pacific and the Pacific Theatre during World War II; he was later honorably discharged.

Sam was a self- employed carpenter/contractor most of his life. In 1988, Sam retired from Mercy Hospital where he was the hospital's carpenter.

Sam enjoyed woodworking, collecting rocks, singing, food, and family. He liked Louis L'Amour books on tape and John Wayne movies. Sam was a member of the VFW and the Masonic Temple.

Sam is survived by his wife Maxine Donisi, Rock Falls, children David Donisi, Platteville, Wis., Mark Donisi, Manchester, Kimm Donisi, Mason City, Kip Donisi, Seattle, Wash., Tami Donisi (Bob Eisner), Argyle, Wis.; step-children, Sue Frauli, Garland, Texas, Rod (Sandy) Kimpling, Fertile, Bobbi (Craig) Lewin, Salt Lake City, Utah, Ken Kimpling, Ankeny; grandchildren, Nick, Mindi, Samantha, Koby, Giovanni, Justin, and Marissa; six step-grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Bob (Cathy) Wells, Clear Lake, along with other relatives and friends.

Sam is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Traci Donisi and six brothers and sisters.

Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third Street N.E., Mason City, Iowa 50401, www.colonialchapels.com, 641-423-2372.

Published in Globe Gazette from November 19 to November 20, 2011

MASON CITY - David L. Graff, mechanic, modeler, friend, father, and grandfather, age 63, of Mason City, died Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

Per Dave's wishes he was cremated and the family will be holding a small private service next summer in LaCrosse, Wis.

Dave left us early last Thursday morning just before dawn. He was surrounded by loved ones when he said his last goodbye. He spent his final week in his home in Mason City, filled with airplane models in various stages of completion, much like his life.

He lived most of his life in La Crosse, Wis., graduating from Logan High School in 1966. He was a patriot, a veteran of the Air Force and National Guard. Dave worked for Chrysler for many years and later owned two auto service centers where he fulfilled his passion for building and racing late model modified stock cars.

He was formerly married to Patty Graff of Onalaska, Wis., and fathered two children with her, Terri (Graff) Toft of Moorestown, N.J., and Paul Graff of Onalaska, Wis. He was the proud "GrandPa" of Jessica, Emily and Patrick Toft and leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Dave was an independent and strong willed Norwegian to the end. Much like a fine wine or cheddar for you Packer fans of which Dave was one, he got much better with age. For those lucky enough to have been close with him in his later years, you'll remember him as a proud and loving grandfather and friend. He struggled through life more than most, but in the end he gave back, he loved and was loved. He will be missed.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City, Iowa 50401, 641-423-0924.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 20, 2011

KANAWHA - Jack Mewes, 75, of Kanawha, passed away Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral services for Jack Mewes will be held on Monday, November 21, at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Kanawha with Pastor Tim Rieckhoff-Faris officiating. Burial will be at Amsterdam Township Cemetery in Kanawha.

Visitation will be held today, Sunday, Nov. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at Ewing Funeral Home, 118 East Second Street, in Kanawha, and will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Monday.

Jack Leroy Mewes, the son of Herbert and Jessie (Gorton) Mewes was born Aug. 27, 1936, near Kanawha. He was a graduate of Kanawha High School and played on the Kanawha Spring Baseball State Championship team in 1952.

Jack was united in marriage to Jane M. Walk on July 2, 1966 in South Dakota. They were blessed with four children. He engaged in farming to support his family and lived on the family farm until moving to the Kanawha Community Home in 2010.

His love for hunting and fishing was only outdone by the love he had for his family. He enjoyed a good card game and was a skilled cribbage player. In addition to farming, Jack delivered Winnebago units across the country, drove a school bus route for the Kanawha Community School and also was a crop hail adjuster for many years.

Jack is survived by his four children: Doug of Apache Junction, Ariz., Tammy (Dana) Kraft of Kanawha, Jack Jr. of Kanawha and Kim (Jeff) Bates of Kanawha; 12 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and his brother, Don (Faye) Mewes of Kanawha.

He was preceded in death by his parents Herbert and Jessie; his sister, Rowene; and his wife of 43 years, Jane.

Ewing Funeral Home, 118 East Second Street, Kanawha, Iowa 50447, 641-762-3211, www.ewingfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 20, 2011

CLARION - Robert Mosher, Jr., 88, of Clarion, died Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011, at the Wright Medical Center in Clarion.

Funeral services for Robert Mosher, Jr., will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 23, at 10:30 a.m. at the United Church of Christ Congregational, 121 Third Avenue North West, in Clarion with Pastor Bill Kem officiating. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 22, from 5- p.m. at Ewing Funeral Home, 602 North Main Street, in Clarion and will continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Ewing Funeral Home, 602 North Main St., Clarion, Iowa 50525, 515-532-2233, www. ewingfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 20, 2011

ALGONA - Margaret Umbaugh, 71, of Algona, and formerly of Minneapolis, Minn. died on Friday, Nov. 19, 2011, at the Algona Manor Care Center.

Funeral services are pending at the Lentz Funeral Home in Algona.

Published in Globe Gazette on November 20, 2011