FOREST CITY - Frances Bienert, age 74 of Forest City, died Monday, Sept. 12, 2011, at the Concord Care Center in Garner.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at Calvary Baptist Church in Forest City with Pastor Douglas Farrell officiating. Burial will be at Madison Township Cemetery in rural Forest City. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 16, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 505 N. Clark St. in Forest City, and will continue an hour prior to service at the church.

Frances Irene Bienert was born on Jan. 5, 1937, in Winnebago County, the daughter of Selmer and Stella (Wolfs) Carlson. She grew up on a farm a mile from Leland. She attended elementary school in Leland and graduated from Forest City High School with the Class of 1955. She loved music and was very involved in choir and in band where she played the clarinet and in the school's drama productions.

She received her degree in elementary education from Waldorf College and taught in elementary schools in Klemme and Forest City. On June 7, 1958, she was united in marriage to Franklin Bienert. She taught for another year after being married, then remained at home to care for her family.

She continued to share her gift of music by playing piano at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Leland and as organist for the United Methodist Church and Trinity Lutheran Church as well as playing for numerous weddings and funerals. Frances had an eye for antiques and loved to decorate. She frequented sales and auctions, enjoying the time visiting with people as much as searching for that special item.

She loved to take long walks, rode her bike when weather allowed and she enjoyed raising beautiful flowers. Faith and family were the most important things in her life.
Frances is survived by her two children: Christopher (Kimberly) Bienert and Kristina Tracey and her fiancée, Anthony Sumo, and their children, Anthonio and Zoey. Also surviving are sisters Joyce Aske of Ames, Ruth Feldick of Buffalo Center and Elanor Vulgamott of Webster City, and brother Luther Carlson of Marshalltown.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Franklin, in 1993 and her parents.

Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 505 N. Clark St., Forest City, IA 50436; 641-585-2685; www.petersenlundfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 13 to September 16, 2011

KENSETT - Betty Jane Bratrud, 87, Mason City, formerly of the Kensett area, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.

A funeral service for Betty will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, at the Elk Creek Lutheran Church, 4108 Killdeer Ave., Kensett, with the Rev. Tom Martin officiating. Burial will be in the Elk Creek Lutheran Church Cemetery, Kensett.

Visitation will be held from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday at the Conner Colonial Chapel, 1008 First Ave. S., Northwood. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to service time on Monday at the church.

Family has suggested that memorials may be directed to the Elk Creek Lutheran Church, Alzheimer's Memory Walk, or Hospice of North Iowa in her memory.

Betty J. Bratrud was born on Sept. 3, 1924, in Mason City, the daughter of Reinhard and Neva (Higley) Beisel. Betty was the middle child of three. Betty was raised in Mason City, and attended Mason City Schools, graduating in 1943.

Betty worked for a short time in the slice bacon department at the Decker's Meat Packing Plant before marrying Orrin Bratrud on Oct. 2, 1949, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Mason City, and to this union three girls were born, Jean, Jane and Judy, who died in 1988.

Betty and Orrin farmed west of Kensett until the fall of 1986 when Orrin passed away. Betty moved into Kensett and lived there for 16 years, then three years at the Kentucky Ridge Assisted Living in Mason City, and then at Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City until her death.

Betty held many jobs at her church, TOPS, and was a 4-H leader for many years. She enjoyed the refinishing of furniture, sewing, and baking. Her favorite baking was an assortment of Christmas Cookies, doughnuts and Norwegian foods. Betty loved her family very much and loved to spend time with them and making crafts for them.
She was a loving wife, mother, sister, daughter, grandmother, great grandmother and great-great-grandmother. In countless ways, she had a positive influence on the lives of those who loved her and she will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.

Betty's family is grateful to all the nurses and care staff of Hospice, Good Shepherd and Kentucky Ridge, for their compassion missed.

Those left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Jean (Larry) Oltjenbrun of Reed Springs, Mo., and Jane (Everett) Johannes, of Mason City; six grandchildren, Rhonda Felbab of Imperial, Mo., Jody Schulz and special friend, Chris Mehmen, of Charles City, Brian (Genesis) Oltjenbrun of Kimberling City, Mo., Christopher Bentzin and special friend Brook Smith of Mason City, Julie (Brian) Ntem of Ankeny, and Andy (Mary) Bratrud of Charles City; six great-grandchildren, Dylan, Stephanie, Rayne, Kyle, Aleah and Michael; three step-great granddaughters, Lindley, Charlie, and Cherokee; and three step-great-great grandchildren; and special friend of the family, Bruce Full of Sergeant Bluff; as well as many nieces, nephews, and many other extended family members and friends.

Waiting for her in heaven are her husband, Orrin; daughter, Judy; her parents, Reinhard and Neva Beisel; two brothers and their wives, Everett and Alvena Beisel and Harold and Eleanor Beisel; a son-in-law, Mike Bentzin; a sister-in-law and a brother-in-law, Joel and Bernice Janson, and a grandson-in-law, Chris Felbab.

Conner Colonial Chapel, 641-324-1543, www.colonialchapels. com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 17, 2011

FOREST CITY - Margie Kirschbaum, 92, of Forest City, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.

Mass of the Resurrection will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 19, at St. James Catholic Church in Forest City, with the Rev. Dennis Miller officiating. Burial will be at St. James Catholic Cemetery in Forest City.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 18, at Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 505 N. Clark St. in Forest City, and will continue an hour prior to the service at the church.
Petersen Lund Funeral Home, Forest City, www.petersenlundfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 17, 2011

MASON CITY - Jacquelyn Irene "Jackie" Markwardt, 41, of Mason City died Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011, at her home. A visitation will be held from 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Christopher Markwardt College Fund at 3 Westview Drive, Mason City, IA 50401. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Jacquelyn was born Sept. 8, 1970, in Norwalk, Calif., the daughter of James and Delores Guile. She graduated from Huntington Beach High School, Huntington Beach, Calif., in 1989.

Jackie and her father worked at a printing company in Fullerton, Calif., where she met her husband, Cory. On Aug. 18, 1999, Jackie married Cory Markwardt in Las Vegas, Nev.

She worked in various sales/customer service jobs in Mason City such as Head Start, Ultimate Playground, Hy-Vee and Ruby Tuesday. She loved spending time with family and friends and especially loved all little babies. She could not resist showering them with attention and kisses if mothers didn't mind when she saw them at work or at the mall. She especially enjoyed family gatherings, where she was often the life of the party. Jackie also enjoyed showering love on her cats Petey and Chips, and making her own jewelry and sharing it with her family and friends.

Jackie is survived by her husband, Cory Markwardt of Mason City; her 16-year-old son, Christopher James Markwardt; one sister, Jamie Guile of California; niece and nephew, Lori and Sam Jr.; and friend/mother-in-law, Donna Bull of Tucson, Ariz. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and several special friends she made while living in Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her adoptive parents, James and Delores Guile, and father-in-law, L. Carl Markwardt.

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 September 16, 2011

CHARLES CITY -Loretta Wiltse, 69, of Charles City died Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011, at the Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City.

Funeral services for Loretta Wiltse will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday at Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Pastor Dennis Niezwaag will officiate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens rural Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday and at the church an hour prior to the service on Monday.

Loretta Jean Wiltse was born March 3, 1942, in Mitchell County, the daughter of Leonard and Anna (Anderson) Whitmarsh. She graduated from Charles City High School in 1961. On July 23, 1960, she was united in marriage to Orme Wiltse, Jr. at Lyle, Minn. From 1986 to 2007 she worked at Mediacom in Charles City. She was a member of Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church. Loretta enjoyed watching shopping networks, walking, riding her bicycle, cooking, baking and going on trips with her family.

Living family members include three sons, Richard Wiltse of Colorado and Randall (Minessa) Wiltse and Ryan Wiltse, both of Charles City; three grandchildren, Ashley Wiltse and fiancé Jerad Damjanovic, Shane Wiltse and special friend Lindsay Aspholm and Tyler Wiltse; two great- grandchildren, Mikenna Wiltse and Payten Damjanovic; a sister, Betty Spurbeck of Charles City; two brothers, Charles Whitmarsh of Waterloo and Mike Whitmarsh of Calif.; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband on June 16, 2010; and a sister, Janice Whitmarsh.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on September 16, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Donald Holthaus, 68, of 506 Ninth St., Charles City, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at the Floyd County Medical Center.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20, at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City. Officiating will be the Revs. Dennis Niezwaag and David Werges.

Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Monday at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home in Charles city. Internment will be at Sunnyside Memorial Gardens, Charles City.

Condolences and stories may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com or Facebook.com/Fullerton funerahome.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt, Charles City, IA, 50616, 641-228-4211, www.fullertonfh.com, Facebook.com/Fullerton funeralhome.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 17, 2011

John P. Nelson

ELMORE, Minn. - Avis M. Weringa, 83, of Elmore, Minn., died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at St. Luke's Lutheran Care Center in Blue Earth, Minn.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19, at Shiloh Lutheran Church in Elmore, Minn., with the Rev. Robert Roettger officiating.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services. Burial will be at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Lakota.

Online condolences and personal emails may be left at www winterfuneralhome.com.
Winter Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 105 S. Grove St., Blue Earth, MN, 56013, 507-526-2216, www.winterfuneralhorne.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 17, 2011

CLEAR LAKE - Walter Amos Wood, Jr., 79, 916 Main Ave., Clear Lake, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, from complications of heart disease.

Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 508 Second Ave. N., Clear Lake, with the Rev. Diana Hoover officiating.

Visitation will be held 4-7 p.m. Monday at Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 N. Fourth St., Clear Lake, and then one hour before the service on Tuesday at church. Interment will be at the Clear Lake Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the Clear Lake V.F.W.

Memorials can be made to Clear Lake School Air Plane Project, E.A.A. Treasurer, 3385 Saratoga Project, Mason City, IA 50401, Clear Lake United Methodist Church or Hospice of North Iowa.

Walter Amos Wood, Jr. was born on the family farm south of Clear Lake and Bayside Park on June 26, 1932, the son of Walter Amos, Sr. and Alma (Crosby) Wood. Having two older sisters, Amos was welcomed as their first son. He attended Eden Country School through eighth grade and graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1950.
Amos served in the Army, stationed in Germany, from 1951 to 1954. He married Rachel Zirbel on January 9, 1955, at the Swaledale Methodist Church. To this union four children were born.

Returning from Germany, Amos farmed with his parents and drove a milk truck route north of town, for the Clear Lake Creamery and often picked up two ten-gallon cans of milk at a time. He was employed as a mechanic by Jerry Dwyer at the airport, and for Phil Ong and Carl Woollums at John Deere Implement in Mason City.

Amos' farming career progressed when Rachel's dad sold him his machinery and rented them land and home near Zirbel Slough. Later Amos and Rachel moved to their own farm west of Burchinal where they and their children set up a progressive cattle feeding system, raised cattle and buffalo and expanded their farming acreage.

After selling the farm in 1982, they moved to Clear Lake and sustained his love for farming by working on the farm alongside his son Dan and continued sharing his valuable knowledge for many years until his death.

It was while working at the airport that Amos became enthused about flying. He was a licensed pilot and built two airplanes in his workshop. Each plane held two persons and was capable of flying over 200 mph.

They traveled to Mesa, Ariz., in the winter and made many friends during the six seasons in Apache Wells RV Resort. Their home was within one mile of Falcon Field where airplanes were a constant source of enjoyment.

Amos is survived by his wife Rachel Wood, children Dan and wife, Wendy (French) of Garner, Roger of Des Moines and Dianne Bojorquez, Clear Lake; grandchildren Jennifer Brown, Joslyn Wood, Jacob Wood, Austin Wood, Alex and Gracie Bojorquez and Millie Wood; great grandchildren Nevaeh and Christian Brown; and siblings Dolores Zirbel, Ellery and Donald Wood.

Amos was preceded in death by his son Walter Amos III (Jan. 23, 2001), sister Faith Boyd (2007) brother Jon Rosger (infant 1943) father (1987) and mother (1993).

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 N. Fourth St., Clear Lake, IA 50428, 641-357-2193, www.colonialchapels. com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 17, 2011

MASON CITY - A. D. "Bud" Bowers, age 77, of 960 Briarstone Drive, Mason City, died Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011, at Manly Care Center, Manly, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19, at First United Methodist Church, 119 S. Georgia, Mason City, with the Rev. Sean McRoberts officiating.

Inurnment will be in Memorial Columbarium at Memorial Park Cemetery, Highway 122 W., Mason City.

The family will greet friends at a viewing which will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. today, Sunday, Sept. 18, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City.

Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer's Association , P.O. Box 96011, Washington, D.C. 20090-6011 or visit: www.Alz.org to donate.

Bud was born May 7, 1934, at Mason City, the son of Elmer and Gladys (Benedict) Bowers.

He was united in marriage to Colleen Wynn on Dec. 23, 1979, at Mason City.

He attended Mason City schools, and was a 1952 graduate of Mason City High School. He later attended the University of Iowa.

Bud was the president of Farmers State Bank, Grafton for over 30 years. In 1989, he moved to Scottsdale, Ariz. While in Arizona, he served as the president of TTI Performance Systems, until retiring in 2005. Bud and Coke returned to Mason City in 2005 and continued to winter in Arizona.

Bud enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf and attending NASCAR races. He especially loved to travel with Coke, and taking trips in their motor home.

He is survived by his wife, Colleen "Coke" Bowers, Mason City; his children, Tracey (Mike) Fossey, St. Ansgar, Pamela (Shaun) Symond, Flagstaff, Ariz., Rick (Ashley) Bowers, Scottsdale, Ariz.; Coke's children, Jeff DeVary, Mason City, Scott (Lori) DeVary, Mason City; grandchildren, Will (Sara), Tom, Brianne (Brad), Cody, Logan, Noah, Lynzy, Carter, Blake, Jenna, and Jordain; great-grandchildren, Reagan Fossey and Kannon Axdahl; two sisters, Clarice (Jack) Venechuk, Grafton, and Joy (Jerry) Buechele, Grafton; sisters in-law, Marlene (Parke) Behn, Cedar Falls, Beverly (Bill) Riess, Des Moines.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Gladys Bowers.
Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, 641-423-2372 www.colonialchapels. com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 18, 2011

MASON CITY -Lois Ditch, 86, Mason City, died Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, at her home in Mason City.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Donald F. Holthaus, 68, of 506 Ninth St., Charles City, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at Floyd County Medical Center, Charles City.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Charles City. Officiating will be the Revs. Dennis Niezwaag and David Werges. Interment will be in Sunnyside Memorial Garden, Charles City.

Visitation will be from 4 until 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19, at the Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt, Charles City. Memorials in Don's honor may be given to St. John Lutheran or Hospice of North Iowa. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com or Facebook.com/Fullerton funeralhome.

Donald Frederick was born, the second oldest of four children, to Harley and Mabel (Duesenberg) Holthaus on Oct. 14, 1942, in Colesburg. At a young age, Donald moved with his family to Rockford. He graduated with the Class of 1960 from Rudd-Rockford-Marble Rock Schools.

Don began his police career as a dispatcher in March 1972, and became a police officer in December 1973, taking his law enforcement training at Camp Dodge in Des Moines. Over the years he continued his police education at North Iowa Area Community College.

Don met his future wife through his sister and love bloomed. He married Marlene Ann Slinger on May 27, 1972, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, where they have been long-time members. Two children were born from this union.

In their early years, they bowled on Friday nights and got together with friends. In September 1990, Don retired from law enforcement due to his failing eyesight. After retirement, he worked for the Parks Board mowing lawns, and maintained the Calvary Cemetery. Don remained active tending his garden, having "coffee" with the guys, and collecting Duesenberg model cars. The original Duesenberg car was built by his great-uncles. Recently, Don mowed lawns and removed snow for his neighbors. Don shared his love of life and laughter with his family and friends until the very end.

Don was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Farm Bureau, Heritage Club at First Citizens National Bank, and served on the Flood Creek Cemetery Board.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 39 years, Marlene; two children, Joel Donald Holthaus, Waverly, and JoAnn Marie (Edgar) Hervert, Charles City; Sister Marilyn Thoe, Lake City, Minn.; three grandsons, Branden, Josiah, and Isaac Hervert; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews; and special friends Vern "Bud" and Jeanne Castle, Waterloo, Dennis Ginther and Bonnie Marth, both of Rockford.
Those preceding him in death are his parents; brothers Herbert (in infancy) and Lester; and brother-in-law Norman Thoe.

Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, Charles City, 641-228-4211.

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

CHAPIN - Bernice Jacobson, 86, formerly of Chapin, died Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, at Living Center West Care Center in Cedar Rapids.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Retz Funeral Home, Sheffield, www.retzfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2011

FOREST CITY - Margie Kirschbaum, 92, of Forest City, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.

Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 19, at St. James Catholic Church in Forest City with Father Dennis Miller officiating. Burial will be at St. James Catholic Cemetery in Forest City.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. today, Sunday, Sept. 18, at Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 505 N. Clark St., in Forest City, with a Scripture Service beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Visitation will continue an hour prior to service at the church.

Margie Kirschbaum was born on March 19, 1919, to Robert and Rosa (Gelner) Clark in rural Forest City. She attended country school through the eighth grade and lived around the Forest City area all of her life.

On Nov. 23, 1937, she was united in marriage to Cecil Kirschbaum at St. James Catholic Church in Forest City. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in November 1987. They farmed most of their life. She also worked as a nurses aide at the Forest City Hospital for several years and dearly loved her job.

Margie was a member of St. James Catholic Church all of her life. She also belonged to the Senior Citizen Club in Crystal Lake for many years and was very involved in that. They had a "Kitchen Band" of which she was the drum player and she thoroughly enjoyed playing in that band. She loved to dance.

In December 1996, the couple moved off the farm and made their home in a condo in Forest City. Margie continued living there after Cecil died until August 2007, when she moved to Apple Valley Assisted Living in Clear Lake, and then in September of 2009 moved to Good Shepherd in Mason City, where she resided until her death.

Margie is survived by five daughters: Ruth Smith of Pequot Lakes, Minn., Carol (Russell) Burress of Ventura, Judy (Jim) Prideg of Cedar Falls, Cathy (Paul) Yoch of LeRoy, Minn., and Susan Kirschbaum of Fox Lake, Ill. Also surviving are a sister, Sharon (DeWayne) Schneckloth, and a brother, Robert (Jan) Clark of Stewartville, Minn.; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-eight great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Marjorie (Louis) Vavrik and Michaela Clark; brother-in-law Eugene (MaDonna) Kirschbaum and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; infant twin daughters, Marlys and Marlene; four brothers, Kenneth, Milton, Gordon and Richard Clark; two sons-in-law, Gary Hulme and Dewey Smith.

Petersen Lund Funeral Home Forest City, www.petersenlundfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 18, 2011

MASON CITY - Wilma I. Cappel, 82, of Mason City, died Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, at the Good Shepherd Health Center.

Arrangements are pending at Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 641-423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 19, 2011

 Lois Sieleman Ditch

MASON CITY - Lois F. (Sieleman) Ditch, 86, of 354 Willowbrook Drive, Mason City, died Saturday Sept. 17, 2011, at her home.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Holy Family Catholic Church, Mason City, with the Rev. Michael J. Schueller officiating. Burial will be in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

Visitation will be Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. at the Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, with a rosary at 6 p.m. and a scriptural wake service at 6:30 p.m. Family suggests memorials to Holy Family Catholic Church or Hospice of North Iowa.

Lois was born Sept. 24, 1924, in Hawkeye, a daughter of Martin and Mildred (Cook) Timm. She attended school in Fayette, and graduated from Fayette High School in 1942. She then attended Upper Iowa University, graduating in 1944 with a two-year degree in business. Upon her graduation, she spent the next five years as secretary and office manager for Farmers Home Administration in West Union and later in the state office in Des Moines.

She married Donald J. Sieleman on June 22, 1949, at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union. They made their home in Iowa City. She transferred to the Department of Interior and was secretary to the state geologist until the birth of her first child. They relocated in Mason City in 1960. After being a stay-at-home mom, Lois returned to the work force in 1970 as a paraprofessional and later secretary at Roosevelt Middle School, retiring in 1986.

Upon her husband's retirement in 1987, they moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., for three and a half years. They returned to Mason City on Oct. 1, 1991. Don passed away on Jan. 16, 1992.

Lois and Harold Ditch were united in marriage on Nov. 1, 1997, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Mason City. Harold Passed away Dec. 15, 2007.

Lois was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, St. Theresa circle, Holy Family Funeral Choir, and a volunteer for Hospice of North Iowa and Community Kitchen. She liked to travel, read, do handiwork and dance. Much joy and pride was derived from her family.

Survivors include her one daughter, Debra K. Johnson and husband Jerry, Marshalltown; two sons, Michael T. Sieleman, Mason City, and James M. Sieleman and wife Cathy, of Bettendorf; four granddaughters, Kate Davis (Dan), Des Moines, Erin Johnson, Dallas, Texas, Maggie (Ethan) Conner-Ross, Philadelphia, Penn., and Emily Sieleman, San Angelo, Texas; one grandson, Jack D. Sieleman, Bettendorf; two great-grandchildren Daniel and Jude Davis; Des Moines; two-stepsons, Alan Ditch, Tucson, Ariz, Dean Ditch, Rocheport, Mo.; one stepdaughter, Karen VanBlair and husband Rick, Pensacola, Fla.; two step grandsons, Jonas Ditch, Columbia, Mo., Josh VanBlair, Crestview, Fla.; two step-granddaughters, Amanda VanBlair, Orlando, Fla., and Nell Hasheider and husband Craig, Jackson, Mo.; sister-in-law, Laura Timm, Des Moines; sister-in-law Beverlee (Sieleman) Drugan, El Paso, Texas; brother-in-law, Rodney Sieleman and wife Maxine, Des Moines. She also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Donald J. Sieleman (Jan. 16, 1992) and Harold Ditch (Dec. 15, 2007); her parents; four brothers, Bryce, Loel, Wayne and Virgil (in infancy) Timm; sisters-in-law, Bertha Timm, Irene Finberg, Ann Sieleman, and brothers-in-law, Robert B. Sieleman and George Drugan.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from September 18 to September 19, 2011

CHAPIN - Bernice Jacobson, 86, formerly of Chapin, died Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, at Living Center West, Cedar Rapids.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, at Retz Funeral Home, 203 Maple St., Sheffield, with Pastor Sandy Gobeli presiding. Interment will be at the Wayside Cemetery in Chapin.

Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. Tuesday and continue until the service starts at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to the Bernice Jacobson Memorial Fund.

Bernice I. Jacobson was born in Algona, a daughter of Elmer and Ethel (Blake) Gross. At a young age, her family moved to the Rockford area and she was educated in the Rockford schools.

On April 19, 1943, Bernice was united in marriage with LaVerne Clifford Jacobson at Austin, Minn.

Bernice worked as a cook at cafes in Hampton and Clear Lake, she also worked as an aide at the Sheffield Care Center.

She enjoyed working with flowers and in her garden.

Living family members include her children, Judy (Larry) Stockberger, Ackley, Barbara (Richard) Thomas, Henning, Minn., Clifford (Sue) Jacobson, Luzerne, Norman (Elaine) Jacobson, Springville, Paul Jacobson, Kansas City, Mo., Patrica (Tony) Harris, North English; sister, DeEtta Erickson, Plymouth, Minn.

Bernice is preceded in death by her parents; husband, LaVerne; infant daughter, Carol Edna; 13 brothers and sisters.

Retz Funeral Home, www.retzfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 18 to September 19, 2011

CHARLES CITY - Dennis Joseph Knecht, age 60, died Sept. 17, 2011, at Charles City, in a farm/ construction accident.

Funeral arrangements are being made through Fullerton Funeral Home.
Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. today, Tuesday, Sept. 20, at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt, Charles City.

A scripture service will be held at 7 p.m. followed by a Knights of Columbus rosary Tuesday evening. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at 10:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church in Charles City. Officiating will be the Rev. Father Carl Ries with Sister Diana Blong conduction the scripture service.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you make a donation in Dennis' name to Immaculate Conception School, Immaculate Conception Church or the Knights of Columbus.

Dennis was born Dec. 1, 1950, in Algona, to Herbert and Esther Knecht. He was the first of fourteen children born to the Knechts.

He attended school in Wesley and Forest City, before graduating from Charles City High School in 1969. He attended NIACC and graduated in 1971 with an A.A.S. in automotive technology. After completing college he returned to Algona and worked with his uncle as a mechanic. He returned to Charles City in 1976 and again engaged in automotive repair. He established Knecht Farm Drainage with his father and brother and continued his work as a mechanic. He enjoyed annual salmon fishing trips, working in the farm shop, and assisting his brothers and nephews as part of the crew in the "pits" during the annual demo derby. For the last 15 years he has worked side by side with Kisch Excavating and with his brother at T&C Machine.

Dennis was a talented, caring, innovative person who used his talents to assist his family, friends, church and community. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church of Charles City and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Dennis' final act of giving is evidenced by the gift of bone and tissue donation.

He is survived by his mother, Esther Knecht of Charles City; his siblings, Irvin Knecht of Orchard; Brian Knecht of Centerville; Mary (Paul) Hurley of Greeley, Colorado; Diane (Mike) Lavenz of Cedar Falls; David (Tami) Knecht of Charles City; Daniel (Bette) Knecht of Ionia; Mark (and special friend, Kathleen Tlusty) of Nashua; Steven (Julia) Knecht of Charles City; Jean (Bruce) Oudekerk of New Hampton; Theresa (Ron) Stewart of Floyd; Catherine (Russel) Groesbeck of Charles City; Charles (Teresa) Knecht of Charles City; Francis (Steph) Knecht of Tripoli; 36 nieces and nephews; and 27 great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert Knecht, and by his grandparents and several aunts and uncles.

Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt, Charles City, Iowa 50616, 641-228-4211; www.Fullerton fh.com, Facebook. com/Fullerton funeralhome.

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

MASON CITY - Lorraine E. Powell, 86, of Mason City, died Saturday Sept. 17, 2011 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, with Pastor Paul Nelson of St. James Lutheran Church officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Lorraine Powell Memorial Fund, in care of the family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com
Lorraine was born Sept. 1, 1925, in St. Paul, Minn., the daughter of Arthur S. and Sadie L. (Minder) Lien. At age 12, Lorraine's family moved to Albert Lea, Minn., where she graduated from the Albert Lea High School.

Before settling in Mason City, Lorraine worked as a cook for Theti Chi in Ames, and TTT Camp in Rice Lake, Minn.

She was a Foster Grandmother at Roosevelt Elementary School in Mason City, where she was named "Grandparent of the Month" by the Foster Grandparent Program in February - 2004.

Lorraine enjoyed crafts, cooking and baking for family and friends, sewing, and volunteering at the voting polls. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family. Lorraine was a member of St. James Lutheran Church.

Lorraine is survived by her children: Robert Powell and wife Sharon of Circle Pines, Minn., William Powell of Mason City, Richard Powell and wife Sherri of Mason City, Barb Stuchel and special friend Larry Smith of Mason City, Robert Powell and wife Cheryl of Mason City; son-in-law: William Fitzpatrick of Mason City; and one sister: Leona Halverson and husband Arlin of Glenville, Minn. She is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Arthur and Sadie Lien; son: Michael Powell; daughter: Judy Fitzpatrick; grandson: Jason Powell; brother: Leonard Lien; sister: Alberta Lieght, and a sister in infancy.

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 September 19 to September 20, 2011

MASON CITY - Larry D. Schaer, 64, passed away Sept. 17, 2011, at Good Shepherd Health Center, Mason City, due to complications with inoperable cancer and heart disease.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday Sept. 22, in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City, where military honors will be provided by members of the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association.

A reception will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the V.F.W. San Juan Marne Post No. 733, 1603 S. Monroe Ave., Mason City.

Larry Dean Schaer was born on Sept. 2, 1947, in Mason City, to Lawrence Andrew and Gwendolyn G. (Harriott) Schaer. He attended Mason City and Clear Lake schools and graduated high school in Tom Bean, Texas, in 1965.

He was in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam Era.

Larry had a fun and rich life. He had his fingers in many businesses and he enjoyed making money and friends. Some of his special interests in life were fishing, deer hunting, and making friends. Larry was always there to drop what he was doing to help his friends.

He loved opening up Larry's Wrecker and Crane Service with no trucks and grew the business to seven trucks and one crane. He then needed more projects so he became a deputy sheriff in Cerro Gordo County.

His very special friends were too many to mention. Just to name a few were Dennis Diekhuis, Dave Smith (owner of Smitty's), Danny Miller, Joe Lea, Tom Schmidtke, John Stone, Al Hessness, Bill Dewey, Randy Olson, and special friend, Roxie Francis.

Larry also used to love to swap fish stories with his attorney, Matt Berry.

His former wife, Debbie Morris, stayed friends with Larry throughout his lifetime. She came to see him in his last days. Larry wishes to thank all of his special friends for their devoted friendship throughout the years. He would also like to give thanks to the staffs of the Veterans Association, Hospice of North Iowa, and Good Shepherd Health Center.

Survivors include his mother, Gwendolyn Schaer, Uncle Dick, Aunt Viney, Aunt Linda and Uncle Larry Zimmerman, Aunt Karen and Uncle LaVern Vaage, Uncle Keith and Aunt Clarice Harriott, Uncle Ora and Aunt Robin Stossivich, sisters Cheryl Glenn of Longmont, Colo. and Amy (Chad) Kuhlers. He had one daughter, Shelly Schaer.
He was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Schaer and grandparents John A. and Sophia (Smith) Schaer and Ben U. Harriott and Oval C. (Scobee) Toland.

Memorials may be directed to the charity of the donor's choice or Hospice of North Iowa or the American Cancer Society .

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 September 18 to September 20, 2011

MASON CITY - Joy Mae Solum, 78, of 2215 19th Street S.W., died Sept. 18, 2011, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, at the Grace United Methodist Church, 200 14th Street N.W. Mason City, with Pastor Steve Hansen officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.

Visitation will be held from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third Street N.E., Mason City.

Should friends desire, memorials may be directed to the Joy M. Solum Memorial.

Joy Mae McDougle was born May 11, 1933, the daughter of Herman and Ethel (Hackman) McDougle. Joy attended Mason City and Osage Schools graduating from Osage High School in 1951. She was united in marriage to Melvin Hoy in 1953.
Melvin passed away in 1958, and Joy was united in marriage to Carl Solum on April 11, 1960. Joy was blessed with five children.

Joy worked at Libby Owens Ford Glass Co. for 20 years. She started working at Walmart in 1994, as a greeter; and retired after 16 years.

She has lived in North Iowa, Seattle, Fort Smith Arkansas and Rapid City, South Dakota. Joy enjoyed vegetable and flower gardening, canning, baking and cooking. She loved crocheting and knitting, Bingo and pets. Joy's greatest love was spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joy was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church, Life Member V.F.W. Auxiliary, and the Senior Citizens Center.

Joy is survived by her children: Bill Solum, Westford, Mass., Mitchell (Mona) Hoy, Mason City, Sherrie Solum, Clear Lake, Carla (Mark) Sampson, LaCrescenta, Calif., Daniel Solum and companion Shelley Huebner, Mason City; step-children Carol Wine and Mark Solum, both of Houston, Texas; grandchildren Zarrie, Anisa, Justina, Jordan, Tanner, Rhea, Ryan, Taylor, Nicole, Kasandra, Sarah-Jo, Tyler, Samuel, Eric, Travis, Nick, Zach, Chris, and Jamie; great-grandchildren Evan, Ehren, Isaiah, Ty, Dylan, Carly, Aurora, and expected arrival Mailey Joy; one brother-in-law Dick Blunt; her best friends Dola and Ethel; along with many nieces and nephews other relatives and friends.

Joy is preceded in death by her parents, first husband Melvin Hoy, three brothers and two sisters.

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

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

CHARLES CITY -Gertrude "Trudy" M. Street, 88 of 28 Cedar Terrace, Charles City, died Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011 at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services will be held 2 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt, Charles City.

Officiating will be the Rev. Paul Phillips, of Floyd Gospel Lighthouse Church. Visitation will be from 5 until 8 p.m., Tuesday (today) at the funeral home.

Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

Those planning and expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Foster Grandparents Organization.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com.
Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt Street, Charles City, IA, 641-228-4211. www.fullertonfh.com.

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

BRITT - Marie Wilson, 74, of Britt passed away Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, at her home in Britt.

Funeral services for Marie Wilson will be held on Thursday, Sept. 22, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Lutheran Church, 70 Fifth Avenue N.W., in Britt with Pastor Lee Nelson officiating. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Britt.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 21, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Ewing Funeral Home, 178 Center Street West, in Britt and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Marie is survived by her children: Bonny Fox of Garner, Larry Wilson of Colorado Springs, Colo., Michael Wilson of Britt, and Deborah Wilson Lau of Albert Lea, Minn.; grandchildren: Troy (Tina) Fox, Alex Lau, Haley Lau, and Keith Lau; two sisters: Helen Gremmer of Britt and Erlene Schutter of Titonka; brother Walbert Mayland, Sr. of Britt; and sisters-in-law Ina Mayland of Clear Lake and Beverly Mayland of Britt.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband John; siblings: Herman, Jeanette Gremmer, William, Engaline, Ben, Lewis, Donald, and Ernest; and sister-in-law Caroline Mayland.

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

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

HUMBOLDT - Gary M. Basler, 77, of Humboldt formerly of Renwick, died Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011, at his home.

Visitation will be held today, Tuesday, Sept. 20, from 4-7 p.m. at Oakcrest Funeral Services in Renwick.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Renwick with Pastor Lynn J. Noel officiating. Inurnment will be at Elmwood Cemetery.

Oakcrest Funeral Services-Renwick, 515-824-3465, www.oakcrestfuneralservices.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2011

MASON CITY - Karen K. Johnson, 57, of Mason City, died Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011, at her home.

Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with the Rev. Craig E. Steimel of St. Joseph Catholic Church officiating.

Per Karen's request, she will be cremated and there will be no viewing.

Memorials may be directed to the Karen K. Johnson Memorial Fund in care of the family.

Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.
111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401, 641-423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2011

CLARION - Sharon (Woodley) Nail-Magee, 76, formerly of Clarion died Aug. 15, 2011, in Sun City, Ariz.

A memorial graveside service for Sharon Nail-Magee will be held at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22, at Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion with Pastor Warren Curry officiating.

Ewing Funeral Home in Clarion is assisting the family with local arrangements.
Ewing Funeral Home, 602 N. Main St., Clarion, IA 50525, 515-532-2233, www.ewingfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2011

FOREST CITY - John Osnes, 86, of Forest City, died Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete with Petersen Lund Funeral Home, Forest City, www.petersenlundfh.com.

MOUNTAIN HOME, Ark. - Wayland Gene Rasmussen, 98, of Mountain Home, Ark., died Friday, Sept. 16, 2011, at Hiram Shaddox Geriatric Center.

Funeral Services for Wayland Gene Rasmussen, will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Kirby Family Funeral Home Chapel, with Dr. Terry Moser officiating. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., today, Tuesday, Sept. 20.

Wayland was born Oct. 23, 1912, in Mason City, the son of Martin and Anna Akeson Rasmussen. He married Margaret Rosemeyer on Oct. 17, 1955, at Newkirk, Okla.

He worked as a Ceramic Engineer Plant Superintendent for Mason City Brick Tile. Wayland Rasmussen was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and received a Silver Star and two Purple Hearts.

He moved from Mason City to Gassville, Ark., in 1977 where he served as mayor for 14-1/2 years. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion. He liked to bowl, and was an avid reader.

Wayland is survived by his wife, Margaret Rasmussen, two sons, James (Joanne) Rasmussen of Hampton, Joel (Shirley) Rasmussen of Clear Lake; two daughters, Jae Leigh Woodsmall of Gassville, Ark., and June Erwin of Woodbridge, Va.; eight grandchildren, Capt. James (Sheri) Vierkant, Adam (Sam) Rasmussen, Daniel Rasmussen, Ben Erwin, Alicia Rasmussen, Matt Erwin, Katie Rasmussen, John Erwin; one great-granddaughter, Hayley Vierkant. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and two brothers.

Burial will be in the Gassville Cemetery with military honors by the American Legion Post 52 Honor Guard with Capt. James Vierkant, Adam, Daniel, Alicia, and Katie Rasmussen, Justin Hansen, and Jake Walker serving as pallbearers. Robert Ripple will serve as an honorary pallbearer.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Arrangements are by Kirby Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2011

LAKE MILLS - Orene E. Sanden, 94, Lake Mills, died Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, at Muse Norris Hospice in Mason City.

Services 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 September 20, 2011

TITONKA - Kathryn Sexton, 81, formerly of Titonka, died Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, at Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt.

Arrangements are pending at Oakcrest Funeral Services, Titonka, 515-928-2735, www.oakcrestfuneralservices.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2011