Irma J. Alphs

BRITT - Irma J. Alphs, 83, of Britt, passed away Friday, Sept. 14, 2012, at Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services for Irma Alphs will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 17, at the Church of the Nazarene, 195 Second St. S.W., in Britt, with Pastor John Paulus officiating. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Britt.

Visitation will be held from 2 until 4 p.m. today, Sunday, Sept. 16, at Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West, in Britt, and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Irma Jean Alphs, the daughter of Harm and Aletta (Meyer) Eden, was born on July 22, 1929, in rural Woden. She grew up in the Woden area, attended country school and graduated from Woden High School in 1946. After she graduated, Irma went to the Iowa State Teacher's College and received her teaching certificate.

Irma was united in marriage to Donald Alphs on Nov. 25, 1947, at the Woden Christian Reformed Church. The couple made their home on a farm southwest of Woden where they raised their three children. Irma taught at country schools for about five years before dedicating her efforts to helping Donald on the farm.

Irma was a member at the Church of the Nazarene in Britt where she taught Sunday school. She loved to cook, bake, sew, do darning work and garden. Irma was known as one of the best cooks in the area and even had a couple of newspaper articles written telling of her wonderful skills.

Irma is survived by her husband of 65 years, Donald, of Britt; two children, Connie (David) Spear of White, Ga., and Michael John (Deb) Alphs of Britt; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two sisters; three brothers; two brothers-in-law; five sisters-in-law; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her son. Robert Alphs.

Ewing Funeral Chapel, Britt, 641-843-3839, www.ewingfh.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 15 to September 16, 2012

Oscar Graydon "Hunk" Anderson
U.S. Navy   WWII

GREENE - Funeral services for Oscar Graydon "Hunk" Anderson will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 17, 2012, at the First Presbyterian Church, in Greene, with Pastor John Hanna officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by Tack-Barnett Post 268 American Legion of Greene.

Visitation will be from 3-6 p.m. today, Sunday, Sept. 16, at Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St., Greene, and will continue at the church on Monday one hour prior to services.

Oscar Graydon (Hunk) Anderson was born March 29, 1922, in Benezette Township to Oscar and Emelia (Hultgren) Anderson and passed away Sept, 13, 2012, at the Rehabilitation Center of Allison.

He was united in marriage to Bernita Weiers, on Sept. 18, 1949, at the Presbyterian Church in Greene. They were blessed with three sons: Tom, Paul, and Jim.

Hunk attended Iowa State Teachers College and was inducted into the United States Navy on March 31, 1945, serving at the United States Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill., until his honorable discharge.

After farming his entire life in Butler County, his final run in the combine came in 2011.
Hunk also worked for Greene Limestone for many years and was part of the Iozona group that owned and operated land in Arizona.

Active in politics on the local, state, and national level, Hunk served on various committees for U.S. Senator Charles Grassley and Iowa Governors Robert Ray and Terry Branstad.

In 1981, he was appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture and served as the Iowa State Director for the ASCS until 1985.

Hunk, a huge supporter of the local community and American Legion member, served on the Greene Community School board and was Round Grove Country Club President. Hunk was a 32nd-Degree Mason and a member of the local lodge in Bristow. He lent his expertise to the engineering and building of the Spirit of Greene Paddleboat, which was later donated to the city. The Presbyterian Church played a significant role in his life where he was an elder and sang in the choir for 30 years.

Daily drives to check the crops or scout for deer usually ended him in the town bakery. Here, Hunk enjoyed telling stories of fishing trips to Canada and being a founding member of the "20-Pound Plus Club." His proudest moment as a fisherman was reeling in and mounting a 27-pound Northern. Shore lunches with friends and family were a highlight of every summer.

Aside from fishing, Hunk had a passion for railroad cars. His little yellow car took him on adventures to many parts of the country.

Hunk will be remembered for his outgoing personality, wit, and ardent one-liners. His youthful spirit infected everyone he came into contact with and will live on in the lives of his family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Bernita of Greene; sons Tom (Dixie) of Greene, Paul (Terri) of Rockwell, Jim (Doreen) of Mason City; seven grandchildren, James (Michele), Luke, Nick, Katie, Stefanie, Rob, and Ellie; two great-grandchildren, Thomas and Aeryn; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Min Opperrman and Gladys Kollman.

Memorials may be directed to the Hunk Anderson Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 219, Greene, IA 50636.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from September 15 to September 16, 2012

Alida Elizabeth Fredricka Baack

MASON CITY - Alida Elizabeth Fredricka Baack, 95, of Mason City, died Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2012, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 17, 2012, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with Pastor Kathy Graves officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. today, Sunday, Sept. 16, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave.

Memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church or Hospice of North Iowa. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.

Alida was born Nov. 3, 1916, in Britt, the daughter of Wilheim Heinrich Christoph and Dorothea Willelmina (Lau) Schubert. She attended Britt High School, graduating from Klemme High School in 1935. She received her teaching certificate from Iowa State Teachers College in 1936. She then taught school at Britt No. 5 school.

Alida married Howard Charles Baack on Feb. 2, 1938. The Baacks farmed in the Klemme and Mason City area for many years. Alida would later work for SS Kresge Co.

Alida was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday school and was a member of Ladies Circle. She enjoyed crocheting doilies, making her own greeting cards, and baking for her family. Chocolate chip cookies and German pfeffernusse were her specialties. Alida was very proud of her German heritage.

Alida is survived by five sons and two daughters: Gary (Joan) Baack of St. Joseph, Mo., Harlan (Marjorie)Baack of Mason City, Marijane (George) Hoffman of Surprise, Ariz., Howard Baack Jr. of Dubuque, Marilyn (Bernie) Smith of Mission Viejo, Calif., Dennis (Cynde) Baack of Greeley, Colo., and Lonnie (Patricia) Baack of Annandale, Minn.; 20 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild; sister-in-law, Juanita Schubert of Rockford, brothers-in-law, Dorance (Janet) Baack of Clear Lake, and Gordon Baack of Clear Lake.

Alida was preceded in death by her husband, four brothers, two sisters, and one daughter-in-law.

Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, Mason City, 641-423-0924.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 13 to September 16, 2012

Sheldon T. Estes

NORTHWOOD - Sheldon T. Estes, 75, peacefully died at his home after a long battle with cancer on Sept. 13, 2012, surrounded by his family.

Sheldon was a lifelong resident of Northwood, currently living in Hanlontown.

Funeral service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 17, at the First Lutheran Church, Northwood, with the Rev. Tom Martin officiating. Burial will be in the Sunset Rest Cemetery.

Visitation is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. today, Sunday, Sept. 16, at Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, Northwood, and one hour prior to service at the church.

Sheldon was born Dec. 17, 1936, in Worth County, to William and Selma (Olson) Estes. He attended school at Kensett No. 2 until the eighth grade. Sheldon helped on the farm until 1959 when he was drafted into the Army. He drove truck and delivered ammunition out to the guns with the 92nd Artillery. He was discharged in 1961.

Sheldon worked at Sunset Rest Cemetery, helped on the farm and worked at the Northwood Elevator for 12 years. He was a great caretaker to his brother Lloyd and both of his parents.

Sheldon loved his family and was well known for his videotaping of family events.
He enjoyed visiting with his friends and family. He had many special friends and neighbors.

Sheldon is survived by one sister, Sylvia (Merle) Peterson, Hanlontown; two brothers, Wayne (Dorothy) Estes, Northwood and Harold (Kathy) Estes, Crystal Lake; nephews, Kenny Estes, Northwood, Ricky Peterson, Mantorville, Minn.; nieces, Darla Smidt, Jackson, Minn., Diane Simon, Albert Lea, Minn., Lisa Peckham, Minot, N.D., Tami Fish, Corwith, Julie Carlson, Ankeny; many great and great-great nieces and nephews; special friend, Marlene Lindley.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Cliffton, Gilman and Lloyd; nephew, Richard.

Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, Northwood, 641-324-1121, www.schroederandsites. com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 15 to September 16, 2012

Jan Hood

DES MOINES - Jan Hood, 77, former resident of Belmond, most recently of Des Moines, died Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012, at the Ramsey Village Health Center in Des Moines.

Funeral services are set at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, at Andrews Funeral Home, located at 516 First St. S.E., Belmond. Interment will follow the funeral service at the Belmond Cemetery.

A visitation will take place one hour prior to services.
Andrews Funeral Home, 641-444-4474.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 17, 2012

Betty Mae Mitchell

MASON CITY - Betty Mae Mitchell, 80, of Mason City, died at her home on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 21, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 1405 S. Pennsylvania Ave., with the Rev. Keith Scott officiating. Interment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 20, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvanian Ave. Memorials may be sent to the Melvin D. Mitchell Family Scholarship Fund of Boone High School, forwarded by the family. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Major Erickson Funeral Home, Mason City, 641-423-0924.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 17, 2012

Gene L. Payne

MASON CITY - Gene L. Payne, 90, of Mason City, died on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

A private family graveside service will be at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery with the Rev. Patti Aurand of the First Congregational United Church of Christ officiating.

Memorials may be directed to the Gene Payne 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, 641-423-0924, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 17, 2012

Gordon H. Wienke

MASON CITY - Gordon H. Wienke, 89, of Mason City, died Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012 at the Heritage Care Center.

Arrangements are pending at Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, 641-423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 16, 2012

Posted on 17 September 2012

Charles R. "Red" Baker

GARNER - Charles R. "Red" Baker, 83, of Garner, died Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Memorial services will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner with Father Dennis Miller officiating.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. today, Monday, Sept. 17, at the Cataldo Funeral Chapel, 160 E. Fourth St., in Garner, with a Scriptural wake service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Charles Rolly "Red" Baker, the son of George and Lillie (Spicer) Baker, was born March 22, 1929, in Decatur County. He graduated from Leon High School in 1947, where he participated in football. He continued his education at Iowa Barber College, graduating in 1948. Red made his living barbering for sixty-one years in towns in the north Iowa area including Belmond, Klemme, Garner and Britt.

He was united in marriage to Romana "Skeets" Jacobs in 1949 and they had four children. Skeets passed away in January of 1983. In 1985, he married Rose Mae Pletcher at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner. They made their home in Garner. On May 5, 2010, Rose Mae passed away.

Red enjoyed his dog, Meiko, camping, dancing, traveling, telling jokes, card playing, but most of all, barbering. Family was a very important part of his life. Red had a huge zest for life and wanted to experience everything that life had to offer.

He was a member of St. Boniface Catholic Church, Garner Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus.

Red is survived by his children, Barbara (Randy) Helps of Grimes, Deb Baker of Urbandale, Mike Baker of Garner and Tim (Sheri) Baker of Grimes; step- children, Lynn Pletcher of Sacramento, Calif., LeAnn (George) Anderson of Belmond, Perry (Trish) Pletcher of Garner, Darla Pletcher of Garner, Brenda Stoner (fiancé, Jim Anderson) of Iowa City and Brad (Joyce) Pletcher of Garner; grandchildren, Christopher (Eva) Helps, Cali (Chris) Jermier, Lacey and Dylan Schmidt, Jacob Baker, Lucas and Hanna Baker, Jesse Pletcher, Justin (Heather) Helin, Holly (Shane) Fibikar, Jamin (Holly) Anderson, Cody Fundermann, Ashley (Brett) Matern, Andrea Ohrt (fiancé, AJ Youngblut), Alexis Farley, Taylor Stoner, Lauren Stoner, Brandon (Melissa) Pletcher, Meagen (Jayson) Jay and Courtney Pletcher; and twelve great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Skeets; second wife, Rose Mae; and two sisters, Louise and Duen.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 17, 2012

Martin E. Bergquist

MASON CITY - Martin E. Bergquist, 46, of Mason City, died Thursday, Sept. 13, 2012, at his home.

There will be a gathering of family and friends from 4-5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 18, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Martin Bergquist Memorial Fund in care of the family. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Major Erickson Funeral Home, Mason City, 641-423-0924.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 17, 2012

Ardis G. Broadston

GREENE - Ardis G. Broadston, 77, of Greene died Friday, Sept. 14, 2012, at the Liebe Care Center in Greene.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, at Calvary Baptist Church, Greene, with Pastor Ben Hartwig officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene.

Visitation will be one hour before services at the church on Tuesday.

Those planning an expression of sympathy my direct memorials to the American Cancer Society, or Hospice of North Iowa, P.O. Box 219, Greene, IA 50636.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on September 17, 2012

Joseph A. Pavelka
U.S. Army   Korean Conflict

HASTINGS, Minn. - Joseph A. Pavelka, age 77, of Hastings, Minn., died unexpectedly Saturday at home.

Funeral Mass will be at noon Tuesday, Sept. 18, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 15th St. W., Hastings, officiated by Father James Perkl.

Interment with military honors will be in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be Tuesday at the church two hours prior to the funeral.

Joseph was born July 16, 1935, at Britt, Iowa, to Joseph F. and Alice M. (Zabransky) Pavelka. He graduated from Britt High School in 1952 and attended Mason City Junior College. He was a veteran of the United States Army serving during the Korean War. He was a member of VFW, American Legion and Eagles Club in Hastings.

Joseph married Sheryl (Martinson) on June 13, 1959 in Mason City. He was employed for many years for the City of Hastings Street Department.

He is survived by his wife Sheryl; children, Jeff (Kelly) Pavelka of Webster, Wis., Steve (Tracy) Pavelka of Hastings, Dawn (Doug) Houska of Alexandria, Minn.; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters Margaret Hrubes and Leona Hrubes of Duncan; also a sister-in-law, Evelyn Pavelka of Britt.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jim and Paul.

Arrangements are being handled by the Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home of Hastings, Minn., 651-437-9419.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 17, 2012

Posted on 17 September 2012

Justin "Billy" Eisentrager

ALDEN - Justin "Billy" Eisentrager, 31, of Alden, died Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012, at his home in Alden.

Memorial services will be held Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Sheffield. Family will greet friends from 5 until 8 p.m. on Wednesday at Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton.

Burial will take place at the Hillside Cemetery in Sheffield. Pastor Sandi Gobeli will be officiating.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2012

Robert Frank

Mason City - Robert Frank, 81, of Mason City, died Monday, Sept. 17, 2012, at the Heritage Care Center.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2012

JanLaurinne Hood

Des Moines, Iowa - JanLaurinne Hood, 77, former resident of Belmond, Iowa, most recently of Adel, Iowa, passed away Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012, at the Ramsey Village Health Center in Des Moines.

Funeral services are set for today, Tuesday, September 18, 2012, at 11 a.m. at Andrews Funeral Home, located at 516 First St. S.E., Belmond. Pastor David Dekuiper is officiating the services. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the services. Interment will follow the funeral service at the Belmond Cemetery.

Those wishing to express their sympathies in memorials may wish to consider the Humane Society or the Belmond Klemme scholarship fund.

Jan Kelley, the daughter of Laurence and Corrine (Nashold), was born May 16, 1935. Jan Kelley graduated from Belmond High school in 1956. Jan was united in marriage to Kenneth J. Hood in Rockford, Ill. To this union one son was born, Kelley.

Jan had a set of resilient skills in the business profession working for Acco Seed Company as an office assistant and being an important part of administration of the city as an assistant, following her employment with the city of Belmond she then opened up a crafts shop in Belmond.

She later moved to Neenah, Wis., and most recently to Adel.

Jan loved nature and animals, always making sure that her resident "creatures" were well-fed. She enjoyed hand-quilting with meticulous attention to detail and doing a variety of crafts. Jan loved her country and her patriotic home decorations reflected that.

Jan is survived by her son, Kelley (Colleen) Hood of Adel; and one granddaughter, Kristen (Jordan) Lindstedt of Summerlin, Nev., who are expecting Jan's first great-grandchild in March 2013. Although Jan's biological family was small she was blessed by wonderful close friends who were like her second family.

She is preceded in death by her parents Laurence and Corrine and grandparents.
Andrews Funeral Home 641-444-4474.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2012

Joyce E. Schoby Lickteig

Algona - Joyce E. Schoby Lickteig, 88, of Algona, died Saturday at Good Samaritan Communities, Algona.

A funeral Mass will be held Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Cecelia Catholic Church, Algona, with Father Edward M. Girres officiating. Burial will be in East Lawn Cemetery, Algona.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday at Oakcrest Funeral Services of Algona, with a scriptural prayer service beginning at 7 p.m.
www.oakcrest, 515- 295-3731.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2012

John Meyer

CLARION - John Meyer, 74, of Clarion, died Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012, at Rotary Ann Nursing Home in Eagle Grove.

A memorial Mass for John Meyer will be held on Saturday, Sept. 22, at 11 a.m. at St. John's Catholic Church, 608 Second Ave. N.E., in Clarion with Father Nils Hernandez and Deacon Jerry Temeyer officiating. Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 21, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Ewing Funeral Home, 602 N. Main St., Clarion, with a Rosary service beginning at 7:45 PM.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2012

Betty Mae Mitchell

MASON CITY - Betty Mae Mitchell, 80, of Mason City, passed away at her home on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 21, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 1405 S. Pennsylvania Ave., with the Rev. Keith Scott officiating.

Visitation will be from 5 until 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 20, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave.

Interment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to the Melvin D. Mitchell Family Scholarship Fund of Boone High School, forwarded by the family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com

Betty was born on January 20, 1932, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the daughter of Paul H. and Leta D. Brown. She graduated from Wilson High School, Cedar Rapids, North lowa Area Community College, and the University of Northern Iowa. She married Melvin D. Mitchell on April 27, 1952. They moved to Mason City after his discharge from the United States Air Force in 1953.

Betty was employed at the Mason City High School as a paraprofessional for 26 years. She was past president of the Harding School PTA; a Junior Great Books Leader; served on the North lowa Girl Scout Council; was a Girl Scout leader and recipient of the Thanks Badge.
Betty was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church, serving many positions including UMW president, and a member of the Golden Age group. She was a member of the Mason City Women's Club, and a speech judge for the lowa School Speech Association.

For eight years she was a classroom volunteer at Newman Catholic Elementary School. In retirement she enjoyed volunteer work, exercising at the YMCA, writing, sewing, travel, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband Melvin of Mason City; a son, Andrew and his wife Elizabeth of Trenton, Maine; a daughter, Nickol Kruckenberg, and her husband Patrick of Mason City; granddaughter Kathleen and her husband, Nicholas Trask, of Mason City; grandson Carter Kruckenberg of Sioux City, Iowa; granddaughter Emma Mitchell of Dillon, Mont.; and great granddaughter, Machaela Trask of Mason City. Also, she is survived by a special nephew, Paul Watkins, and his wife Ruth, of Chicago.

Betty was preceded in death by her mother, father, sister, Mary Julia Watkins, and brother-in law Robert Watkins.

Arrangements: Major Erickson Funeral Home, Mason City, 641-423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 18, 2012

Henry Mohring

Ionia - Henry Mohring, 89, of Ionia, died Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012, at his home.

Funeral services for Henry Mohring will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charles City. Pastor Dennis Niezwaag will officiate. Burial will be in the New Hampton City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, and Thursday at the church an hour prior to the service.

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 September 18, 2012

Viola H. Sheehy

Mason City - Viola H. Sheehy, 95, of Mason City, died Monday, Sept. 17, 2012, at the Heritage Care and Rehab Center in Mason City.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete with Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, 641-357-2193, ColonialChapels.com

Published in Globe Gazette on September 18, 2012

Gordon Henry Wienke
U.S. Army  WWII

MASON CITY - Gordon Henry Wienke, 89, of Mason City, formerly of Rockford, Ill., died on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012, surrounded by family at Heritage Care Center, Mason City.

Gordon moved to Heritage in September 2011, with his wife, Pearl, who died in February 2012.

There will not be a funeral service at this time. Memorials may be given to First Covenant Church, Mason City, or Hospice of North Iowa. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com

Gordon was born to Henry Frederick Wienke and Ella Sophia Wienke on September 4, 1923, in Elgin, Ill. He grew up in Dundee, Ill., served in the infantry in World War II in Germany and graduated from Bradley University, Peoria, Ill., in 1949. He worked as an accountant for George C. Poole Ford, Arlington Heights, Ill., and Star Ford, Streator, Ill.
Gordon married Pearl Marie Davis on August 28, 1953, in Elgin. They were long-time members of Broadway Covenant Church, Rockford, during their senior years.

Left to cherish his loving memory are children, Richard (Carol) Wienke, Algonquin, Ill., Shirley Crane, Mason City, Nancy (Gary) Golian, Rockford, Margie (Tom) Lineback, Roscoe, Ill., Tammy (Dave) Menke, Palm Bay, Fla., Tom Wienke, Pekin, Ill.: grandchildren, Tim (Linda) Rothenbach, Tracy Harris, Mindy (Dan) Richter, Rod Wienke, Sarah (Steve Locher) Crane, Rachel, Stephen, Hannah and Olivia Crane, Philip, Matthew and Michael Golian, Abigail Lineback, Chelsea Long, Rita and Jack Menke, and Dylan Wienke; great grandchildren, Aaron Rothenbach, Henry, Alden, Miles and Grant Locher; sister-in-laws Mardell Davis and Bessie Davis; many nieces and nephews.

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Pearl, daughter, Rita Harris, infant twin sisters and many sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws. Gordon loved the Lord.

He loved numbers whether it was accounting at work and church, or knowing all the baseball statistics of his beloved Chicago Cubs. He also enjoyed gardening and pinochle.
Arrangements: Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401, 641-423-0924, www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 16 to September 18, 2012

Posted on 18 September 2012

Robert J. "Bob" Frank

Mason City - Robert J. "Bob" Frank, 81, of Mason City, passed away on Monday, Sept. 17, 2012, at Heritage Care Center.

A memorial service will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 20, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with the Rev. Neil Manternach of St. Joseph's Catholic Church officiating. Inurnment will be held in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery.

A gathering of friends and family will be held 4-6 p.m. today, Wednesday, Sept. 19, at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to the Robert "Bob" Frank Memorial Fund, in care of the family.

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

Robert "Bob" Frank was born on Feb. 2, 1931, in Mason City. He was the son of Clemens and Mary Frank. He attended Mason City Schools. He was married to Beverly VanNote on Aug. 29, 1949, and to this union six children were born. Bob was employed at Northwestern States Portland Cement for 35 years.

Bob coached his sons' little league teams for many summers. He loved to hunt and fish with his brothers, sons, and sons-in-law. He had a passion for country music and was a gifted lead guitarist and singer. He shared this love and gift with family and friends by having many "country jam sessions" at his home. His sisters and brothers especially enjoyed these times together. He loved German Shorthair Pointers that he trained and hunted with. Bob loved gardening, especially his rose garden, to the delight of his neighbors.

Bob is survived by his children, Diana and Patrick Holahan, Mason City, Shirley and Brian Trevett, Rockford, Michael and Marilyn Frank, Warner Robbins, Ga., David and Theresa Frank, Mason City, and Marty Frank, Mason City; grandchildren, Chris and Brooke Holahan, Cedar Falls, Kelli and Marlin Duren, Osage, Lori Havig, Des Moines, Robert and Katie Havig, Mason City, Scott and Andrea Havig, Marble Rock, Michael Olson, Mason City, Beverly and Trei Green, Macon, Ga., Brent and Tracie Frank, Warner Robbins, Ga., Lucas and Amanda Frank, Ocala, Fla., Brandon Frank, Clear Lake, Sean Frank, Clear Lake, Christopher Servantez, Mason City, Nicole, Jordan, and Hillary Frank, Mason City, and several beautiful great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his sister Charlotte Walker, Mason City, sister-in-law Shirley Frank, Mason City, and many "very special" nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clemens and Mary Frank, wife Beverly in 1994, and son Randy in 2009, siblings Katie Schwab, Billie Rupp, Rosie Dunahoo, Jean Von Dracek, Jake Frank, Joe Frank, Marty Frank, John Frank, Barbara Frank, Dory Strong, and Willie Frank.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from September 18 to September 19, 2012

Rosemary Meyers

CLEAR LAKE - Rosemary Meyers, 67, of 16 N. 12th St., Clear Lake, died Tuesday Sept. 18, 2012 at her home.

Services are pending at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 N. Fourth St., Clear Lake, Iowa, 641-357-2193.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 19, 2012

John Samuel Roseland, 1929-2012
U.S. Army  Korean Conflict

KAISPELL, Mont., John Roseland died at home in Kalispell, Mont., on Sept. 12, 2012, four years after his diagnosis of throat cancer.

John was born Dec. 7, 1929, in Hartley, Iowa, second child of John Tobias Roseland and Floy Aurit Roseland. He was called Jack by family and school friends.

He attended elementary and high schools in Clear Lake, Iowa, where he excelled in football, sailing and water skiing. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity at the University of Iowa.

In 1948-49 he was a gold miner, trapper and dog musher at Tanana, Alaska. John served with 8th Army Headquarters, Far East Command from 1951-53 and was awarded the Korean Service Medal. After his service, he graduated with a degree in pharmacy from Drake University where he belonged to Kappa Psi pharmaceutical fraternity.

He married Elizabeth Jane Doolittle in Luverne, Minn., in 1951.

John practiced pharmacy in Iowa and Montana, retiring in 1974 with the sale of Roseland Drug in Lewistown, Mont., where he served two terms as Post Commander of the VFW.

He and Liz took time off to sail in the Florida Keys and Bahamas on the sloops Ciao and Wild Goose before returning to Montana to build and operate John's Drive-In at Troy, which they sold in 1980. John and Liz built their retirement home on the Kootenai River at Troy where they lived happily until Liz's passing in 2000.

John was preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth, his parents, and brother Joseph Roseland. He is survived by brother Robert Roseland of Des Moines; sister Patricia Carrell of Clovis, Calif.; daughter Kristine Roseland (Walt) Wolf of Vashon, Wash.; Jennifer (Garry) Hefty of Manhattan, Mont.; son John "Rosey" (Lisa) Roseland of Thorne Bay, Ark.; grandson Morgan Hefty of Manhattan, Mont., and his dear companion, Marlys Barr of Kalispell, Mont.

By the expressed wishes of the deceased, there will be no memorial service.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 19, 2012

Shirley Marie Farrer Sandage

FREDERICK, Md. - Shirley Marie Farrer Sandage, a native of Mason City, passed away on Wednesday, June 27, 2012, in Frederick, Md.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 22, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Mason City, with Pastor Jeni Bohls of St. James Lutheran Church officiating. The family will receive friends for coffee and conversation beginning at 9 a.m.

Immediately after the service, inurnment will take place at Rock Grove Cemetery in Nora Springs. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the "Garrity/Sandage 'Door Opener' Scholarship Fund," NIAAC Foundation, 500 College Drive, Mason City, Iowa, 50401.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from September 19 to September 20, 2012

Viola Helen Sheehy

Mason City - Viola Helen Sheehy, 95, passed peacefully into the hands of the Lord at the Heritage Care Center in Mason City, Iowa on Monday, Sept. 17, 2012.

A funeral service will be held for Viola at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 21, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City, with the Rev. John A. Gossman officiating. Interment will follow in the Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery in Mason City.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel on Friday.

Viola Sheehy was born May 25, 1917, near Calmar, Iowa, the only child of Joseph and Mary Korbel Tuma. She was raised on a farm in rural Calmar Township, Winnishiek County. She attended school in Spillville while living with her great-grandmother, Catherine Bruha Taylor. She also attended schools in Decorah before moving to Mason City to attend Hamilton College.

While in Mason City she met Ted M. Sheehy. They were eventually married on Oct. 13, 1941, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville. Five children were born of this marriage.

She is survived by her children, Mary (Wayne) Casper, Mike (Ann) Sheehy, Rich Sheehy, and Martie (Steve) Sawyer, nine grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Tuma in 1957, Mary Korbel Tuma in 1997, her husband, Theodore Maurice in 1983, and her son, Joseph Stephen in 1993.

The family wishes to extend their most sincere appreciation for the loving care provided by the staff at Heritage Care Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be addressed or sent to the Czech Heritage Center, P.O. Box 186, Protivin, Iowa, 52163, an IRS approved 501(3) Not-for-Profit Iowa Corporation, or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 1216 Third St. N.E., Mason City, 641-423-2372, ColonialChapels.com.

Published in Globe Gazette from September 18 to September 19, 2012

Griffeth Carlson Troester

HAMPTON - Griffeth Carlson Troester died Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012, at his home in Hampton.

Services will be held Friday, Sept. 21, 2012, at 10:30 a.m., at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Hampton.

Family will greet friends from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Hampton. Burial will take place at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church Cemetery in Latimer, Iowa. The Rev. Karl Bollhagen will be officiating.

Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton in Charge of arrangements, 641-456-3232, www.sietsemavogelfuneralhomes. com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 19, 2012

Posted on 19 September 2012

Jerry M. Bahnsen
U.S. Army (1962-1965)

MASON CITY - Jerry M. Bahnsen, 71 of Mason City died Monday, Sept. 17, 2012, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, Minn.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 21, at St. James Lutheran Church, 1148 4th St. S.E., with Pastor Paul Nelson, Pastor Jeni Bohls and Pastor David Anderson officiating.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 20, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, and also one hour prior to the services at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Elmwood-St. Joseph's Cemetery with Military Honors performed by the Mason City Veterans Association.

Memorials may be directed to the American Diabetes Association or the Jerry Bahnsen memorial fund in care of the family to be used toward Mason City Youth Hockey.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.
Jerry was born on a farm 6 miles west of Denison on Dec. 14, 1940. His family lived in Schleswig, Iowa, from 1942-44 when they then moved to Council Bluffs, Iowa. Jerry attended all secondary schooling in Council Bluffs. Jerry attended Omaha University for one year and received his Associates Degree (Business) from North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City.

He worked for Western Electric from 1959-68. Jerry was in the U.S. Army Security Agency for three years (1962-1965) as an Electric Technician; from 1969-70 was a Civilian Electronic Technician for the U.S. Army. In 1970 he went to work for the Federal Aviation Administration and retired in 2002 as a Communications and Navigations Electronic Technician-In-Depth. After retiring, he went to work for Parsons, Inc. (five years) installing electronic equipment for the FAA as an Electronic Technician and a Resident Engineer (Inspector). Jerry worked for the Federal Government for 37 years.

Jerry and Carol Sweetman were married in Council Bluffs, IA, in May of 1966. They lived in Council Bluffs until 1968, then Granite City, Ill., from 1968-70, and then from 1970-72 in Olathe, Kan., then to Mason City where they have been residents since 1972.

Hockey was the sport that he really enjoyed (even though he didn't skate). He was involved in the administration side for 15 years in Mason City Youth Hockey and 16 years in the Iowa High School Hockey League. He held almost every position on the board of directors of both organizations. He coached house league teams (MCYH) for a few years. His latest interest in hockey was working at helping Mason City build a multi-purpose building.

Jerry was a member of St. James Lutheran Church and had served on the church council and head of the stewardship committee. He was a past member of the North Iowa Fair Association Board of Directors. He was also, a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose, lifetime member of the V.F.W., American Legion and V.P. of the local National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association.

He was blessed with a loving wife, Carol, of Mason City; two daughters, Christine Foth of Mason City, her daughter, Morgan Baltierra; her son, Aaron; Lynn Jansen of Norwalk, her son, Josh; son, Brian Bahnsen and wife Michaelle of Des Moines, their children, Joey and Jessica; granddaughter, Nadia Bahnsen; great-grandchildren, Tanna and Hunter Baltierra; several nieces and nephews; two brothers-in-law, two sisters-in-law; brother, Stan Bahnsen and wife Cindy of Florida; sister, Justene Wisemann and husband Dean; Tom and Ann Anderson (in-laws) of Garner.

Jerry enjoyed his family, watching sports on TV (especially the Green Bay Packers), doing repairs around the house, being with his friends and working and playing with his computer. To relax he enjoyed visiting Diamond Jo Casino in Northwood.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents, Raymond and Viola Bahnsen; mother and father-in-law, Charles and Wanda Sweetman; and a younger sister, Shirley Bahnsen.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from September 19 to September 20, 2012

John Hellick Hill
 

BRITT - John Hellick Hill, 85, of Britt passed away Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services for John Hill will be held on Friday, Sept. 21, at 10:30 a.m. at the Evangelical Free Church, 810 2nd Avenue NW in Britt with Pastor Stan Johnson officiating. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Britt.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Sept. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West in Britt, and will continue one hour prior to services at the church.

John was welcomed into the family of Helmer and Mary (Faust) Hill of Kanawha on Sept. 4, 1927. John grew up on the family farm, helping his parents and brother care for livestock and the planting and harvesting of crops.

John enjoyed baseball immensely. At 15 years old he was the winning pitcher for Corwith when they won the 1943 State High School Baseball Championship. His brother, Harold, drove in the winning run that day as John crossed home plate to give Corwith the victory. John graduated at 16 years old from Corwith High School in 1944 and continued to help on the family farm for the next two years despite being offered scholarships to play baseball at three different colleges.

In 1947 John and Harold were both invited to attend spring training in Vero Beach, Florida, with the Brooklyn Dodgers. John played with the Dodgers farm team, the Pulaski Counts in Virginia, for two years. In the spring of 1949, John returned home to play baseball for the Bancroft Lions in the Semipro Iowa State League. He continued to pitch for eight years for Bancroft, Mason City and Albert Lea teams.

On Sept. 3, 1949, John married the love of his life, Evelyn Newton. John and Evelyn enjoyed farming southwest of Britt for over 50 years and took great joy in raising their four children. John was an excellent manager and was a hard-working farmer, taking care of many head of cattle, sheep and hogs along with tending to his crops. John sheared sheep in the area for many years. His carpentry skills included building barns and remodeling their home.

John was an active member of the Britt Evangelical Free Church, serving as a board member, church chairman, Sunday school teacher, youth leader, Awana helper and usher.
He was also involved in the community as a school board member for nine years, of which five years were as chairman. He volunteered as a mentor for the Britt High School baseball team. John received numerous awards, including Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year, Cattleman of the Year, Champion Pork Producer and Master Swine Producer. He organized and served as Master of Ceremonies for fundraisers for the Britt School District.
John was a fiscally conservative man but had a very kind and generous heart which he shared with many over the years. Friends and family appreciated John's engaging cheerfulness and humor throughout his life. He loved the Lord very much. He said shortly before his death that choosing Jesus was the best decision he ever made, with marrying Evelyn the second-best choice of his life. Those two decisions changed John's life. He was always grateful for the many blessings God had given him over his lifetime.

John will be greatly missed by his wife of 63 years, Evelyn, and his children: Lorraine (Jim) Amelsberg of Forest City; Connie (Brad) Field of New Richland, Minn.; Sharon (Charlie) Sweers of Lake Mills; Jeremy (Denise) Hill of Bondurant; grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Jessica (Chris) Hansen, Amelie and Isaiah; Dave (Val) Amelsberg, Ethan, Ava, and Lydia; Cheston (Erin) Field, Isaac, Cadence, and Adalee; Clark (Audra) Field; Carson Field; Ben (Julie) Sweers, Tyler and Jadyn; Melissa (Brandon) Prichard; Johnathan, Jackson, and Hannah Hill.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Harold, son-in-law Tom Anderson and grandchild Adam Anderson.

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

Published in Globe Gazette from September 19 to September 20, 2012

Dagmar Vidal Johansen

HAMPTON - Memorial Services will be held Saturday, Sept. 22, at 11 a.m. at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Rural Hampton, Iowa. Burial will take place at the St. John's Lutheran Church Cemetery in Rural Hampton, Iowa. Pastor David Bernhardt will be officiating.

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

Dagmar Vidal Johansen, 94, of Longwood, Fla., and formerly of Hampton, died Friday, Sept. 14, 2012, at Village on the Green Hospice in Longwood, Fla.

Dagmar, the daughter of Peter and Mette Miller Lund, was born Dec., 10, 1917, in Hampton. She attended Hampton High School, Grand View University and Iowa State Teachers College.

Dagmar taught country school at the Maysville School, south of Hampton, where she arrived at the crack of dawn to light the facility's woodstove. Students in Garner, Cherokee and Mason City benefited during her teaching service to those communities. During World War II, she worked as a weather spotter for the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In 1942, while attending summer school at Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, Colo., Dagmar met a tall veterinary student named Lewis Vidal. They married in June 1944. The couple made their home in Hampton until Dr. Vidal's death in 1990.

Dagmar moved to Miami, Fla., in 1992. While living in Miami, she was active in community affairs such as Habitat for Humanity, the Jackie Gleason Theater and Church by the Sea, Oldsmare, Fla.

In 1992, Dagmar married Ove Johansen, a childhood friend, and moved to Longwood to be with him there. Ove died in 1997. Dagmar resided at Village on the Green until her death.

Dagmar was a devout Christian, teacher, bridge player, hospital volunteer, baker, cook, seamstress, worrier, giggler and above all else a Dane and a Democrat.

While living in Hampton, she was involved in many civic and church activities. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Franklin General Hospital Auxiliary, the Hampton County Club, As You Like It Club, Franklin County Democrats and was a Cub Scout den mother.

In 1960, she was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention which nominated John Kennedy as president. By 1964, Dagmar was a member of the Iowa Democratic State Central Committee, representing the Third Congressional District.

In 1972, she was elected to serve on the Executive Committee of the Democratic National Committee, being re-elected in 1976 and 1980. Dagmar attended five Democratic National (presidential) Conventions and the inaugurations of John Kennedy and Jimmy Carter.

Dagmar was a champion of women, minorities and peace within the political process. She was instrumental in crafting the anti-war plank of the Democratic Platform in 1968 and the Kansas City reforms of 1972. The latter resulted in the development of the caucus system of presidential candidate selection.

Dagmar's life was devoted to family, church and friends. Her home was always ready for guests. She was a most hospitable hostess to neighbors, as well as presidential candidates. She loved music and songs, flowers and spirited debates.

Dagmar lived during an awesome sweep of time; from herding sheep with her father, to the railhead south of Hampton, to the White House - a Democrat to the end. Ha' De Got, Kare Mor.

Left to mourn her passing are her children, Kathy Vidal, Staten Island, N.Y.; Robert Vidal, Hampton; Dr. Peter Vidal, Garner; and Leonard Vidal, Daytona Beach, Fla.; grandchildren, Kirsten Shaw, Jade (Doug) Stull, Dr. Logan Vidal, Sean Vidal, Colette and Chanel Vidal, Ethan and Victoria Vidal; great-granddaughter, Jensina; and great-great-grandchildren, Jesse, Jenna, Timmy and Robert.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2012

Phyllis Gloria Peterson Killian
 

MESA, Ariz. - Phyllis Killian, 88, originally of Mason City, lost her short battle with cancer and died peacefully surrounded by family Thursday Sept. 6, 2012, at the Arbor Rose Hospice House in Mesa, Ariz.

She was born on Sept. 1, 1922, in Lake Mills, Iowa. She attended Mason City High School and lived in Mason City until 1976 when she relocated to Mesa, Ariz. She was one of six children born to Peter and Augusta Peterson, and she was a twin.

She is preceded in death by her mother and father and five brothers, Telford, Donovan, Addler, Phillip and Royden, and her youngest son, Mark Theodore (56). She is survived by her husband Eli Theodore Killian of 61 years of marriage, her son Thomas Killian of Marshfield, Mo., and her daughters Wendy Swim of Stockton, Calif., and Tracey Gilbert of Mesa Ariz. She is also survived by grandchildren, Cheryl Hoshor, Ohio, James Swim, California, and Kayley and Rachael Gilbert of Arizona, and great-grandchildren Brandon and Brittany Hoshor of Ohio.

Phyllis was a multi-talented woman who had a particular savvy with any activity that was crafty. She had the ability to take her talents and turn them into successful businesses that were centered around the things she loved to do. She loved sewing, beading, macrame, crocheting and ceramics and managed to teach classes and evolve businesses out of every idea she sprouted. She was self-motivated, self-driven and hard charging towards any endeavor she took on. Her last business was crafting Bingo Bags and Seat Cushions for the local casino gift shop; she had sold thousands of sets by the end of her life. She was a pioneering entrepreneur.

She had a fantastic sense of humor and was the best mother anyone could ever ask for. She took care of many sick and ailing friends and was always the first one to show up at the door to help in any way she could. She was a bright light and spirit in this world, and will be missed by all who knew her, especially her family.

The family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley for making her passing so peaceful.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2012

Ashton Debra May
 

ADAMS, Minn. -Ashton Debra May, 25, of Adams, Minn., died Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012, at St. Marys Hospital, Rochester, Minn.

Ashton was born June 11, 1987, in Austin, Minn., to Mark and Rosanne (Kiefer) May. Ashton was the proud oldest sister to Maggie, Christopher, Alan and Elizabeth, goddaughter of Eddie May and Debra Lewison, and godmother to Alexis Smith and Emma Ashton Lewison.

Ashton attended Sacred Heart Elementary School in Adams, Minn., and graduated from Southland High School in 2006. While in school, Ashton excelled in academics as well as music, being an accomplished pianist and violinist, and played trumpet in the pep band. A gifted athlete in volleyball, basketball and track and field, Ashton earned all-conference honors in all three sports and was a five-year state qualifier and medalist in track and field in nine events.

Interest in pursuing her track and field career led Ashton to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where she excelled as a four-year member of the women's indoor and outdoor track and field teams. There she became a 10-time All-American. Ashton holds 3 UWL school records, tying the indoor long jump in addition to holding records in the 4x100 and 4X200 relays. Ashton also holds the facility record in the long jump at the UWL outdoor track and field complex. Other honors and awards in track and field include being team captain, WIAC All-Conference member, 2010 WIAC Scholar Athlete of the year, Academic All-Conference and Academic All-American. Ashton graduated in 2010 with a major in elementary education with a math concentration.

Working with youth played an important part in Ashton's life. For six summers, she worked for Austin Parks and Recreation as a coach. She also coached the Adams summer recreation program.

This fall "Miss May" began her dream job as a teacher - as the new eighth grade math and social studies teacher at Holmen Middle School in Holmen, Wis., and spent two wonderful weeks with her students in the classroom.

She continued her involvement in athletics by coaching the middle school volleyball team and was entering her third year as an assistant coach for UWL women's track and field team.

In her 25 years, Ashton accomplished much. Yet her greatest joys came from spending time with her family, attending their many athletic events and being a part of the large May and Kiefer families, rarely missing family events.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents: Vernon Kiefer and Bernard and Regina May; and uncle John May and aunt Jolene Kiefer.

Ashton is survived by her parents, Mark and Rosanne May, Adams, Minn.; brothers and sisters, Maggie May, Adams, Minn.; Christopher May, Adams, Minn.; Alan May, Adams, Minn.; Elizabeth May, Adams, Minn.; grandmother, Priscilla Kiefer, Adams, Minn.; many aunts, uncles and, cousins; godparents, Eddie May, Stacyville; Debra Lewison, Rose Creek, Minn.; goddaughters, Emma Ashton Lewison, Rose Creek, Minn.; and Alexis Smith, Taopi, Minn..

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 22, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Adams, Minn., with Father Thomas Loomis officiating. Interment will be in St. Johns Cemetery, Johnsburg, Minn.

There will be a 3 p.m. Rosary Service on Friday at the Adams Funeral Home where visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. Visitation will also be held on Saturday morning from 9-10 a.m. at the funeral home. There will be no reviewal at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Adams Funeral Home, 300 West Main, Adams, MN 55909, 507-582-3461.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2012

Beulah McVeigh
 

ALGONA - Beulah McVeigh, 84, of Algona died Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, Spet. 21, at the First United Methodist Church in Algona with the Rev. Steven McElroy officiating.

Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. until service time Friday at the church.

The Lentz Funeral Home in Algona is serving the family.

Condolences may be left at www.lentzfuneralhome.com.
Lentz Funeral Home, 515-295-2622.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2012

Paul N. Peterson
 

GARNER - Paul N. Peterson, 86, of Garner, formerly of Nevada, Iowa, died Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012, at Concord Care Center in Garner.

A celebration of Paul's life will be held at noon, Saturday, Sept. 22, at Hickory Grove Lake, Oriole Ridge Lodge in Colo, Iowa. Lunch will be provided. Graveside services will be held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, at Greenwood Cemetery east of Ellsworth.

Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner is in charge of arrangements, 641-923-2841, www.cataldofuneralhome.com.

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2012

Merry Maxine (Crom) Tobiasen
 

NORTHWOOD - Merry Maxine (Crom) Tobiasen, 91, died Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

A gathering of family and friends will be held Thursday, Sept. 20, at the Conner Colonial Chapel, 1008 First Ave. South, Northwood, from 4-6 p.m. followed by a service at 6 p.m. at the chapel, with Pastor Dennis Ganz, and Pastor Wendi Gillan officiating. A private committal service will be held at the Hampton Cemetery on Friday.

Always known as Maxine, she was born on Dec. 22, 1920, in her grandmother's home in Hampton to Harrison and Veda (Hooker) Crom. She attended her formative school years at the Stoney Point Country School. While attending Hansel High School, she was a member of the State championship girls' basketball team until moving to Hampton and graduating with the class of 1938.

Maxine loved the outdoors and in her youth she could be found riding around the countryside on her horse. As a young adult, she joined an equestrian club when her family moved to Mason City where she participated in many riding events and parades.

Maxine met her husband, Bennett Tobiasen, while attending a dance at the Surf Ballroom. They married on March 29, 1944, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. To this marriage a son, James, and a daughter, Linda (Toby), were born. Bennett and Maxine moved to a farm southeast of Northwood where they farmed until moving into town in 1966, when they both began delivering campers and motor homes for Winnebago Industries. After her husband's death in 1973, Maxine continued to deliver motor homes and has driven to every state in the continental U.S. including Alaska. For 15 years, Maxine drove school bus for the Northwood-Kensett Community Schools, and many community members continue to recall fond memories of those days.

Maxine enjoyed reading, driving, chocolate, flowers, country music and anything polka-dot, but her greatest joy in life was spending time with family. She was known for her outgoing personality, quick wit and sense of humor. Fiercely independent, she continued to live alone in the large family residence and drive her big Cadillac around town until her recent illness.

Greeting Maxine in heaven are her parents; her husband Bennett; her brother, Dwight Crom; her daughter-in-law, Vickie Tobiasen; and her grandson, Benjy VanDenBosch.

She will be dearly missed by her children, James (Julia) Tobiasen of Maple Island, Minn., and Toby (Bob) VanDenBosch of Mason City; her grandchildren, Aric Tobiasen of Northfield, Minn., Valerie (Scott) Quiring of Webster, Minn., Lindsay (Jeff) Horner of West Des Moines, and Sasha VanDenBosch of Chicago, Ill.; great-grandsons, Clay and Elias Quiring, both of Webster, Minn.; and sisters-in-law, Clara Nelson of Dallas, North Carolina, and Wanda Crom of Northwood; as well as nieces, nephews, and other extended family members and friends.

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

Published in Globe Gazette on September 20, 2012

Posted on 20 September 2012 by Marie Thompson