Ronald L. Kissel

SHELBY, Ohio — Ronald L. Kissel, age 83, resident of Shelby, Ohio, died Thursday, September 19, 2013, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born May 31, 1930, in Mount Morris, Michigan, to Howard and Kathleen (Brown) Kissel, he had been a Shelby resident since 1955. He was a farmer all his life and a retired employee of Ohio Brass in Mansfield. Ronnie’s greatest passion was farming.

Ron was a member of the First Church of the Brethren where he served on the Disaster Response Team and helped with the church upkeep. He was a great handyman who could fix anything.

Survivors include his wife, Carolee (O’Green) Kissel whom he wed November 9, 1952; his six children, Pamela Hoffman of Shelby, Joyce (Terry) McKown of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, Jerry (Debbie) Kissel of Shelby, Wayne Kissel of Shelby, Bonnie Bishop of Fredericktown and Michael Kissel of Shelby; 20 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Shirley Nelson of Mansfield and Rebecca O’Green of Kissimmee, Florida, brother-in-law, George Newman of Mason City, Iowa; nieces, nephews and other relatives.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Kissel and Paul (Lucille) Kissel; his in-laws, Arthur and Arlene O’Green, sister-in-law, Sharon Newman; granddaughter, Jennifer Hoffman and two great-grandsons, Ethan McKown and Harley Kissel.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, September 23, 2013, at the First Church of the Brethren. Friends may call at the Barkdull Funeral Home in Shelby on Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Memorial expressions may be made to the First Church of the Brethren, 889 Grace St., Mansfield, Ohio 44905.

On line condolences may be made at www.barkdullfuneralhome.com.

Wilma M. (Thompson) Long

CORWITH — Wilma M. (Thompson) Long, 96, of Corwith, died Friday, Sept. 20, 2013, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. at the Evangelical Free Church, 810 Second Ave. N.W., in Britt, with the Rev. Stan Johnson officiating. Burial will be at Corwith Cemetery in Corwith.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, from 5 until 7 p.m. at Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center St. W., in Britt, and continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center St. W., Britt, IA 50423, 641-843-3839, www.ewingfh.com

William L. Robinson III

HAMPTON — William L. Robinson III, 71, of Hampton, died Wednesday at the Franklin General Hospital in Hampton.

Family will greet friends Monday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. at the Hampton Cemetery in Hampton.

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

Susan Vining

CHARLES CITY — Susan Vining, 69, of Charles City, formerly of Forest City, died Thursday, Sept. 19, 2013, at her home.

Funeral services for Susan Vining will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, at the Hauser Funeral Home. Sister Diana Blong of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church will officiate. Inurnment will be at a later date in Riverside Cemetery at Charles City.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday and an hour prior to the service on Tuesday.

Susan Mary Jones Vining was born April 5, 1944, in Charles City, the daughter of Donald and Catherine (Dickhoff) Jones. She attended school at Nashua and later received her GED. Susan married Dennis Usher and to this union four children were born. They later divorced. In 1983 Susan married the joy of her life Bill Vining and they made their home in Charles City. Over the years Susan worked at Salsbury Laboratories and then dedicated her life to helping others at the Chautauqua Guest Homes, Comprehensive Systems and Mosaic (formerly Krysilis) at Forest City. Susan enjoyed bowling, camping, fishing on the Mississippi and going to family reunions.

Living family members include four children, Steve (Karen) Usher of Forest City, Lisa Monsen of Charles City, Brad (Camille) Usher of Belmond and Troy (Sue) Usher of Nashua; 21 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a brother, Dick (Diane) Jones of Waterloo.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bill on Feb. 24, 1992; granddaughter, Kristie Usher; and sister, Kay Westervelt.

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.

Stephanie M. Abendroth

MASON CITY — Stephanie M. Abendroth, 32, of Mason City, died Thursday, Sept. 19, 2013, at her home.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with the Rev. Dan Gerrietts officiating.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

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

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

Helen Margaret Fisher

MASON CITY — Helen Margaret Fisher, 93, of Mason City, died on Sept. 19, 2013, at the Heritage Care and Rehabilitation Center in Mason City.

Her funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at Grace Evangelical Free Church, 440 N. Illinois Ave., Mason City, with the Rev. Scott Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City.

Visitation with a public viewing will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Monday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Hospice of North Iowa, 232 Second St. S.E., Mason City.

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

 Lloyd C. Maine

MASON CITY — Lloyd C. Maine, 65, of Mason City, died Thursday, Sept. 19, 2013, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

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

Posted on 22 September 2013

Dolores E. Hudson

MASON CITY — Dolores E. Hudson, 87, of Mason City, Iowa, died Tuesday, September 17, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, September 23, 2013, at the Church of Christ, 710 North Kentucky Ave., with Pastor Alan Sheldon officiating. Inurnment will be held in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of North Iowa, Church of Christ or the Senior Citizens Center.

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

Dolores E. Hudson was born Dolores Elizabeth Gossweiler, to Albert and Louise (Forster) Gossweiler, on November 10, 1926, in rural Rockford, Iowa. She attended rural country school, and graduated from Rockwell High School in 1944.

She worked at Lyons Laundry & Drycleaners in Mason City two years after graduation and before her marriage. She later worked at the Rockwell and Mason City Post Offices, retiring 26 years later in 1988. She lived all her life in Rockwell and Mason City, except a year as a Navy Reservist wife in New Orleans, Louisiana. (1951-52).

She enjoyed a full life of family, friends, church, travel, and community service, where she was an active volunteer in church and town and school organizations.

She recently recovered from a 10-month interval of illnesses and physical rehabilitation, so her sudden collapse and passing is a huge shock to family and friends.

Dolores Hudson died peacefully Tuesday, September 17, 2013, at the age of 86 years, 10 months, surrounded by family, her pastor, and the hospital chaplain.

Mrs. Hudson will be deeply missed by her family: two daughters, Dr. Charlene G. Gooch (Massachusetts) and Laurene K. Gooch Podley and husband, Bob, (Forida), and one son, David L. Gooch (Mason City); grandchildren, Amanda Laurene Herro (Florida) and Robert James Gooch, his wife, Anissa, and their newborn son, Gabriel David Gooch (Mrs. Hudson’s first great-grandchild), of St. Paul, Minnesota.

She is also survived by five siblings and their spouses: sisters Helen Teeple and Selina E. Gossweiler (both Mason City), and Nell Crafton (Lakewood, Colorado); brothers Albert Gossweiler and wife, Dorothy (Mason City), and Richard Gossweiler and wife, Naomi (Rockwell), and many nieces and nephews in both the Gossweiler and Gooch families; stepsons Jeff, Larry and Dan Hudson; plus many dear and good friends from church, Women’s Club, American Legion Auxiliary, Hospice families, Senior Center exercise group and activities, NARFE.

Dolores was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Louise Gossweiler, and grandparents, her beloved second husband, James Hudson, brothers-in-law, Roy R. Crafton and Max Teeple, first husband, Laurence E. Gooch, and nephew, Nick Quinby.

Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

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

Joyce M. Schweizer

Rockford — Joyce M. Schweizer, 91, of Rockford died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete with Sheckler Colonial Chapel, 114 N. Hawkeye Ave., Nora Springs, 641-710-2210, ColonialChapels.com.

 Stephanie M. Abendroth

MASON CITY — Stephanie M. Abendroth, 32, of Mason City, died Thursday, September 19, 2013, at her home, surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 23, 2013, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with Pastor Dan Gerrietts officiating.

Visitation will be held from 4 until 7 p.m. today, Sunday, September 22, 2013, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Stephanie M. Abendroth Memorial Fund in care of her family.

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

Stephanie was born February 3, 1981, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, the daughter of Thomas D. and Lisa D. (Stanley) Batten. She graduated from Albert Lea High School and also received her A.A. in Criminal Justice from Hamilton College. She lived in Hayward and Albert Lea, Minnesota, before moving to Mason City.

She was married to Scott L. Abendroth on February 1, 2006. She worked at the Good Shepherd Health Center as a CNA for four years until her illness worsened in 2011.

Stephanie was a caregiver at heart. She loved helping people and loved caring for her family, especially her two children. She enjoyed reading, spending time with her family, butterflies, and loved listening to music, especially Keith Urban. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her husband, Scott Abendroth of Mason City; two children: Tavn Batten and Jordis Abendroth; brother, Brandon Batten and wife Kassi Batten-Reich of Austin, Minnesota; mother, Lisa Batten of Rose Creek, Minnesota; father, Thomas Batten of West Virginia; brother, Michael Batten and wife Sandra of Albert Lea, Minnesota; uncle, Jayson Ruble and wife Roxanne of Hayward, Minnesota; aunts, Sue Ruble of Hayward, Minnesota, and Sam O’Rourke and husband Dan of Albert Lea, Minnesota; mother-in-law, Marlene Tvedt; sisters-in-law, Tina Abendroth, Jayne Peterson and husband Gary and Terry Abendroth; brothers-in-law, Michael Abendroth, Donald Abendroth, David Abendroth and Johnnie Howell and wife Kelly; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Larry Stanley; grandmother, Mary Stanley, and brother-in-law, Steven Abendroth.

Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

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

Neva Baehne

CHARLES CITY — Neva Baehne, 91, of Charles City died Friday, Sept. 20, 2013, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Funeral services for Neva Baehne will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Trinity United Methodist Church. Pastor Jim Beranek will officiate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens rural Charles City.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Hauser Funeral Home, and at the church an hour prior to the service on Tuesday.

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

The Hauser Funeral Home, 641-228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements.

Helen Margaret Fisher

MASON CITY — Helen Margaret Fisher, 93, of Mason City, Iowa, passed away on September 19, 2013, at the Heritage Care and Rehabilitation Center in Mason City.

The funeral service for Helen will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, September 23, 2013, at Grace Evangelical Free Church, 440 N. Illinois Avenue, Mason City, with Pastor Scott Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City.

Visitation with a public viewing will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Monday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to North Iowa Hospice, 232 Second St. S.E., Mason City.

Helen was born in Rockford, Iowa, on March 20, 1920. Helen was married to Merlin Edwin Fisher Sr., on November 24, 1944. They were married 49 years. They moved to Chicago and she worked at Federal Tool and Plastics for more than 25 years.

She enjoyed dancing, playing cards, watching the birds, and playing the organ. She was also actively involved in the local Senior Center where she loved to serve others.

On April 24, 1986, she accepted Christ as her personal Savior and now stands in glory before Jesus.

The family of Helen wishes to thank Heritage Care Nursing Center where she has lived for the past year and a half.

Helen is survived by her son, Merlin “Sonny” Edwin (Donna) Fisher Jr. of Algonquin, Illinois, and daughter, Judy Kay Fisher of Evanston, Illinois; grandchildren, Christine (Alan) Sponem of Madison, Wisconsin, Jennifer (Ted) Chropkowski of Algonquin, Illinois, Todd (Jill) Fisher of Lake in the Hills, Illinois, Carrie (Brett) Ratajczak of Algonquin, Illinois; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Cummings of Cedar Falls, Iowa; and her brother, Ralph (Mary Helen) Luecht of Mason City, Iowa; along with other family and friends.

Helen is preceded in death by her husband, Merlin Edwin Fisher Sr.; her parents, Reent and Maria Nannen Luecht; and her four brothers and four sisters.

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

Elinor Randolph Graper

GRANBURY, Texas — Elinor Randolph Graper died on Sunday, Sept. 15, 2013, at her home in Granbury, Texas.

A memorial service will be held at Lakestone Terrace in Granbury, Texas, on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 10:30 a.m in the chapel. Graveside services will be held in Iowa at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Hood County.

She was born Dec. 27, 1917, in Nora Springs, Iowa, to James A. and Anna Cutler. She earned the Eaglet Award (currently the Gold Award) in Girl Scouts. She attended Principia College in Illinois and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Iowa State Teachers College (currently the University of Northern Iowa) and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Yale University in New Haven, Conn. She worked for Rockwell Collins in Richardson, Texas, for 16 years in the publication department as a proofreader and editor of technical manuals. She retired in 1978.

She married Ivan Graper on Aug. 19, 1978. They lived in Tyler, Texas, before moving to Granbury in 2005. She was a devoted mother and grandmother. She delighted in the accomplishments of all of her family. She was an avid bridge player, golfer, and reader. She had a wonderful sense of humor.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 2005, and a granddaughter, Kathryn Randolph in 1985.

She is survived by her son, Paul Randolph and wife Mary of Cheyenne, Wyoming, daughter Anne Cox, of Denver, Colorado, and daughter Sue Bates and husband Jim of Granbury; grandchildren, Jennifer Bates Miller and husband Roscoe of Weatherford, Texas, Jill Bates Sczech and husband Joey of McKinney, Texas, Rebecca Bier-Moebius and husband Tyler of Carbondale, Colorado, Abigail Bier Ziv and husband Nathan of Santa Barbara, California, Daniel Randolph of Steamboat Springs, Colorado; and seven great-grandchildren: Ryland Miller, Brody Miller, Asher Bier-Moebius, Alexis Bier-Moebius, Isabella Bier-Moebius, Taj Bier-Moebius, and Oliver Bier Ziv; and a cousin, Margaret Wiley of Irvine, California.

Wiley Funeral Home, Granbury, TX 76048, 817-573-3000.

Jesse William Wilson

CHARLES CITY — Jesse William Wilson, 22, of Charles City died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, as the result of an automobile accident.

Funeral services for Jesse Wilson will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Hauser Funeral Home. Pastor Dennis Niezwaag of Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church will officiate. Inurnment will be at a later date.

Visitation will be 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Hauser Funeral Home, and an hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

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

The Hauser Funeral Home, 641-228-2323, in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.

Donald D. Muhlstein

MASON CITY — Donald D. Muhlstein, 80, of Mason City died Friday, Sept. 20, 2013, at the Nora Springs Care Center.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with Pastor Kathy Graves officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Donald D. Muhlstein Memorial Fund in care of her family.

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

Wilma M. (Thompson) Long

CORWITH — Wilma M. (Thompson) Long, 96, of the Corwith area, passed away Friday, September 20, 2013, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt.

Funeral services for Wilma Long will be held on Monday, September 23, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. at the Evangelical Free Church, 810 Second Avenue N.W., in Britt, with Pastor Stan Johnson officiating.

Burial will be at Corwith Cemetery in Corwith following a time of fellowship over lunch at the church.

Visitation will be held today, Sunday, September 22, 2013, from 5 until 7 p.m. at Ewing Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West, in Britt, and continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Wilma Marie Thompson was born on May 15, 1917, to William and Tena (Luthro) Thompson at Calendar, Iowa. She graduated from Kanawha High School and studied nursing for one year in Chicago.

She was united in marriage to Terry L. Long on June 30, 1941, at Bethany, Missouri, and they made their home on the same farm that his grandfather homesteaded. Terry died on July 21, 1980, and Wilma remained on the farm until 2007, when she moved to Britt.

For the last year she made her home with son Tim and his wife Janice.

Wilma loved the Lord, her family and friends, music, and was a true farmwife. In later years she worked at the Britt Milk Plant and the Kanawha Care Center. She never tired of encouraging her four children, 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren in their faith walk.

She is survived by her children, Lorris (Myrna) Long of Mason City, Leanne (Lawrence) Hartley of Fort Dodge, Cynthia (Vernon) Gidley of Waverly and Timothy (Janice) Long of rural Wesley; sister, Viola (Stephen) Engelstad of St. Ansgar; brother, Dwane (Ruth) Thompson of Minneapolis, Minnesota; sister, Marguerite Petersen of Orting, Washington, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; one brother and one sister. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Memorials will be directed to some of Wilma’s favorite mission projects.

Kevin Patrick Rose

HAMPTON — Kevin Patrick Rose, 57, of Hampton died Thursday, Sept. 19, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Hampton.

Burial will take place at a later date. Father Mike Tauke will officiate.

Memorials can be mailed to his son, Chance Rose, 103 N. Main St., Allison IA 50602.

Sietsema Vogel Funeral Homes, Hampton IA 50441, 641-456-3232.

Posted on 22 September 2013

Lyle Dahlgren

ALGONA — Lyle Dahlgren, 89, of Algona died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at the Kossuth Regional Health Center in Algona.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at the First United Methodist Church in Algona, with the Rev. Steven McElroy officiating.

Burial will be in East Lawn Cemetery, with military rites conducted by the VFW Post No. 2541 and the Hagg-Turner American Legion Post No. 90 of Algona.

Visitation will be 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. today, Monday, at the Lentz Funeral Home in Algona.

Lyle’s video tribute may be viewed at www.lentzfuneralhome.com.

Lentz Funeral Home, 515-295-2622.

 Esther E. Johnson

Clear Lake — Esther E. Johnson, 90, of Clear Lake died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, at the First Congregational Church, 205 W. 10th Ave. N., Clear Lake, with the Rev. Brad Thornton officiating.

Inurnment will be held at a future date in the Johnson family plot in the Highland Cemetery, Eddyville.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to Esther’s service at the church on Wednesday.

Memorials may be left in Esther’s name in care of Hospice of North Iowa.

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

Donald D. Muhlstein

MASON CITY — Donald D. Muhlstein, 80, of Mason City, died Friday, September 20, 2013, at the Nora Springs Care Center.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 24, 2013, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N. Pennsylvania Ave., with Pastor Kathy Graves officiating.

Visitation will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. today, Monday, September 23, 2013, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave.

Interment will be held in Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Donald D. Muhlstein Memorial Fund in care of his family.

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

Donald D. Muhlstein was born July 14, 1933, in Mason City, Iowa, the son of Walter H. and Lydia (Beisel) Muhlstein. He graduated from Mason City High School.

He was married to Sharon J. Boyd on September 8, 1962, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Mason City. To this union two children were born: Eric and Stacie.

Don worked for Armour Co. for forty-three years until his retirement in 1996. He was a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church and the local union. Don took great pride in his home and especially his yard. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Don is survived by his wife, Sharon J. Muhlstein of Mason City; two children: Eric Muhlstein and wife Donna of Nampa, Idaho, and Stacie Goebel and husband Mark of East Bethel, Minnesota; four grandchildren: Lydia and Logan Muhlstein and Morgan and Mia Goebel ; siblings, Walter Muhlstein Jr., Dixie Harris and husband Charles, Donna Meyer and husband Edwin and Richard Muhlstein and wife Trudy; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Darlene Muhlstein; and sister-in-law, Miriam “Mokey” Muhlstein.

Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

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

Dean Eikenberry

CHARLES CITY — Dean Eikenberry, 87, formerly of Charles City, died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at Silvercrest Assisted Living in Clive.

Funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at First Baptist Church, 105 Chapel Lane, Charles City, with the Rev. Ruth Yeaton officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Charles City.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. today, Monday, Sept. 23, at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St., Charles City.

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

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt St., Charles City IA 50616, 641-228-4211.

Posted on 23 September 2013

Craig A. Millard

NASHVILLE, TennESSEE — Craig A. Millard, 58, formerly of Mason City, Iowa, died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, at his home in Nashville, Tennessee.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 Third St. N.E., Mason City.

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

Opal DeNio

DOWS — Opal DeNio, 85, of Dows died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, at her home in rural Dows.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, 2013, at the Abundant Life Chapel, 202 Fairview St. in Dows. with Pastor Bruce Klap officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Dows.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013, at Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Ave. E., Clarion, and will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday.

Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Ave. E., Clarion, IA 50525, 515-532-2233, www. ewingfh.com.

 Della Toftey

KANAWHA — Della Toftey, 85, of rural Kanawha, died Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at her home in Kanawha.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Andrews Funeral Home, Belmond.

Andrews Funeral Home, Belmond, IA, 641-444-4474.

Carol June DeBuhr

DUMONT — Carol June DeBuhr, 72, of Dumont, died Sunday, Sept. 22, at Mercy Medical Center- North Iowa, Mason City.

Visitation will be held on from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home in Dumont. Burial will take place at a later date.

Sietsema-Vogel Funeral Home, Dumont, IA, 641-456-3232.

Ann Marie Anderson

CLEAR LAKE — Ann Marie Anderson, 83, formerly of Clear Lake, died Thursday Sept. 19, 2013, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake.

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

Walter E. Ward

PLYMOUTH — Walter E. Ward, 89, of Plymouth, died Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at his home.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, 2013, at St. James Lutheran Church, 1148 Fourth St. S.E., Mason City, with Pastor Jeni Bohls and Pastor Paul C. Nelson officiating.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City. Interment will be in the Plymouth Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Walter Ward Memorial Fund in care of his family.

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

Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory,

111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City, IA 50401, 641-423-0924. www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

George W. Medlin

NORA SPRINGS – George W. Medlin, 65, of Nora Springs, died Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center- North Iowa, Mason City.

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

Inez Mae Marzen

GREENE — Funeral services for Inez Mae Marzen, 96, of Greene, will be 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Greene with the Rev. Monsignor Walter Brunkan officiating.

Burial will be in the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Greene.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013, at Reid’s Funeral Chapel, 519 N. First St., Greene, and will continue at the church until the time of service.

Inez Mae Franke was born on July 24, 1917, in rural Floyd County, Iowa, the daughter of Lou Herman and Jessie Adeline (Meek) Franke and died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, at the Liebe Care Center in Greene.

She received her education in District 6 Pleasant Grove School.

She was united in marriage to J. Edwin Marzen on Feb. 14, 1939. This union was blessed with eight children. They made their home on the family farm until 1985 when she moved into Greene.

Inez was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church and was a member of the Royal Neighbors of America. She was known for being a wonderful cook. Inez enjoyed visiting with family and friends and was an avid card player.

Living family members include her children: Pat Kilby, Nashua; Sue (Gene) Smid, Merrill; Dixie (Jerry) Johnson, Gaylord, Minnesota; Darlys (Garry) Krull, Greene; Mike (Elaine) Marzen, Marble Rock; Audrey (Gary) Smith, Greene; Jerome (Cathy) Marzen, Springfield, Mo.; John (Sherry) Marzen, Marble Rock; 28 grandchildren; 59 great-grandchildren; 15 great- great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Inez was preceded in death by her husband, J. Edwin; her parents; two brothers, Ray Franke and Robert Franke; son-in-law, Ron Kilby, and great-grandson, Zack Marzen.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Inez Marzen Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 219, Greene, IA 50636.

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

 Lynn Allen Marchant

KLEMME — Lynn Allen Marchant, 63, of Klemme, died, Thursday, Sept. 19, 2013, at his home in Klemme.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, at Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme, with the Rev. Donna Buckman officiating. Full military honors will be provided by the Klemme Military Unit.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Andrews Funeral Home, Klemme, and at the church one hour prior to services.

Andrews Funeral Home, Klemme, 641-587-2510.

Marty L. Moulton

ALGONA — Marty L. Moulton, 56, died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at Kossuth Regional Health Center.

A memorial service will be held at 5 p.m. Wednesday at Oakcrest Funeral Services of Algona. His family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

www.oakcrestfuneralservices.com, 515-295-3731.

Dean Elmer Eikenberry
U.S. Army   WWII

CHARLES CITY — Dean Elmer Eikenberry, 87, formerly of Charles City, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at Silvercrest Assistant Living in Clive.

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

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. today, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2013 at First Baptist Church, 105 Chapel Lane, Charles City. The Reverend Ruth Yeaton will be officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Charles City.

A visitation was held from 4-8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt Street, Charles City.

Dean was born on Dec. 5, 1925, in rural Marble Rock, to Chester and Josie (Miller) Eikenberry. He grew up in Greene, and attended school there through the eighth grade. Dean served in the United States Army during World War II and received a Purple Heart. After the service, Dean lived in Waterloo, and then in 1948 he moved to Charles City where he lived most of his life.

In 1952 he was united in marriage to Mary Testroet. To this union two children were born. Dean worked at Salsbury Chemical for 31 years as a welder until he retired in 1988.

Dean was a member of the V.F.W. and First Baptist Church in Charles City. He enjoyed spending time outside in his shop fixing things. He was a very hands-on person and could fix almost anything. He also enjoyed gardening, talking on the phone, and riding around on his specialized wheelchair.

During his younger years Dean played a lot of pool. As he got older he liked playing card games, especially 500. For as long as he could, Dean liked going out for coffee with family or friends. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, hardworking mentality, and warm heart.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Debra Eikenberry of Grimes, and Karen (Robert) Boscaljon of Clive; grandchildren, Daniel (Becky) Boscaljon of Iowa City, Andrew (Kari) Boscaljon of Dallas Center, Kari (Ramiro) Rivadeneira of Texas, and Kristin Boscaljon of Kona, Hawaii; six great-grandchildren; and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; parents, Chester and Josie Eikenberry; three brothers, Raymond, Myron, and Byron Eikenberry; and two sisters, Jean Nikolas and Claudia Boyd.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt, Charles City, IA 50616 641-228-4211.

Esther E. Johnson

CLEAR LAKE — Esther E. Johnson, 90, of Clear Lake, died Saturday (Sept. 21, 2013) at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City, surrounded by her loving family.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday (Sept. 25, 2013), at the First Congregational Church, 205 W. 10th Ave. N., Clear Lake, with the Rev. Brad Thornton officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to Esther’s service on Wednesday.

Inurnment will be Thursday (Sept. 26, 2013) in the Johnson family plot in the Highland Cemetery, in Eddyville.

Should friends desire, memorials may be left in Esther’s name in care of Hospice of North Iowa.

Esther Eileen VanLoon was born on July 13, 1924, in Eddyville, the daughter of David and Helen (TenHagen) VanLoon. She attended and graduated from Eddyville High School in 1941 with a normal teaching certificate. She began her teaching career in country schools near Monroe and Mahaska during World War II.

On Jan. 12, 1946, Esther was united in marriage to Wayne Johnson in Oskaloosa and moved to Clear Lake the following year, where they lived the rest of their lives. Wayne preceded Esther in death on April 26, 2006.

Esther was a member of the First Congregational Church in Clear Lake. She was an active Sunday school teacher, served as the Sunday school superintendent for seven years, as well as president of the Women’s Fellowship. She sang in the church choir for 47 years and served on the church board, the Altar Guild, church flower committee, women’s fellowship, holiday church bazaar, and on the church library board for several years.

She was a member of P.E.O. chapter EA, Crescent Club, Friendly Garden Club, and Central Gardens Public Garden of Clear Lake. She served on the Girl Scout Council and was a Girl Scout and Cub leader, working with both her children to receive their badges.

Although Esther never returned to teaching, she often helped in the school classroom. She worked for the Clear Lake Public Library as a library clerk for 35 years before her retirement at the age of 70.

Her greatest joy, aside from her family, was singing in the church choir (rarely missing a Sunday service), working at the library, and tending to her flower garden.

Those grateful in sharing in her life are her children, Eileen Johnson, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Steven (Marilyn) Johnson, Clear Lake; her grandchildren, Abbie (Jason) Smith, Mesa, Arizona, and Gregory Johnson, Peosta, Iowa; her great-grandchildren, Mia and Gabe Smith, and Lauren Johnson; her siblings, Theo (Connie) VanLoon, Dorothy (Fred) Celsy, and Joy (Don) Vanamerongen.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Wayne.

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

Posted on 24 September 2013

Dylan “D-Paul” L. Paulsen

Manly — Dylan “D-Paul” L. Paulsen, 18, of Manly died Monday, September 23, 2013, at his home in Manly.

A funeral service for Dylan will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 29, 2013, at Bethel United Methodist Church, 503 East South Street, Manly, with Pastor Don Preston officiating. Burial will follow in the Manly Cemetery.

A visitation with a public viewing will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Friday, at the church.

The family suggests that casual dress be worn at the funeral service.

Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Dylan Paulsen Memorial Fund in care of his family.

Dylan Lee Paulsen, son of Jeffery and Michelle DeKruif Paulsen, was born December 19, 1994, in Mason City, Iowa. He attended school in Garner until the fifth grade and the family moved to Manly where he graduated with the Central Springs Class of 2013 in Manly. During his high school career, he participated on the Central Springs Trap Shooting team, was involved in track and enjoyed lifting weights. During his senior year, he attended North Iowa Area Community College where he was enrolled in the automotive program. Most recently, Dylan began working at Curries Manufacturing in Mason City.

Dylan enjoyed deer hunting and playing Xbox Live with his friends. He loved working with his dad on the house in Manly and most importantly, family was very important to him, spending time with them and his dog Daisy, who he would take for a run and walk every night.

He is survived by his parents, Jeff and Michelle Paulsen, Manly, Iowa; two brothers, Dustin and Deven Paulsen, Manly; Danielle Kampfe of Britt, who was like a sister to him; maternal grandparents, Bill and Barb DeKruif of Garner, Iowa; and paternal grandparents, Jim and Gloria Paulsen, Mason City. He is also survived by his three aunts, Belinda (Jason) Schultz, Mason City, Melissa (Joe) Adams, Mason City, and Suzanne Paulsen, Albert Lea, Minn.; two uncles, Larry (Jacque Sabin) DeKruif, Colfax, Iowa, and Bob DeKruif, Waseca, Minn.; special friend, Ted Cordle, Kensett, Iowa; along with several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his uncle, Jimmy Paulsen.

Bride Colonial Chapel, 110 East Spring, Manly, 641-454-2242, ColonialChapel.com.

Della G. Toftey-Hanson

KANAWHA — Della G. Toftey-Hanson, age 85, of rural Kanawha, Iowa, died Monday, September 23, 2013, at her home in rural Kanawha.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, September 25, 2013, at the St. Olaf Lutheran Church, west of Belmond, Iowa. The Reverend James Harbaugh will be officiating. Burial will be in the St. Olaf Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be today, Wednesday, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Andrews Funeral Home, 516 First Street S.E., Belmond, and will continue one hour prior to the services at church Thursday.

Memorials may be directed to the St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the family or the donor’s choice.

Della Georgienna (Reuben) Toftey, the daughter of William and Jennie (Albers) Reuben, was born on November 12, 1927, near Kanawha. She was baptized and confirmed at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme, Iowa. She attended school in Kanawha and graduated from Kanawha High School in 1945.

She married Bernard Toftey in 1948 at the church in Klemme. One son, Rodney, was born to them in 1951. She was a member of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Belmond. In past years, she was a member of the Altar Guild, Kennsington Club, and Home Study Club. She enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, flower arranging, gardening, decorating and most of all acrylic painting. She enjoyed nature, feeding and watching birds. She took care of multiple kitties and Shasta was special. Dogs were special also.

Della enjoyed shopping and going out with her Kanawha friends to eat for each one’s birthday.

In 1984, she married Laurence Hanson, after a few years she divorced and moved back to the farm where she has since resided.

She is survived by her son, Rodney (wife Susan) Toftey, and one granddaughter, Stefanie Toftey, who also meant so much to her. Also, three step-grandchildren, Derek, Laura and Phil; and two great-grandchildren, Kyle and Drew. Nephews: Gary (Robin) Mewes, Craig Toftey, Bruce (Michelle) Toftey, Brian (Beth) Toftey, Bob and Jane, Scott and Cindy, Jay Provorse and Bradd Provorse, Jane, Cindy, Michelle, Kasey, and a sister-in-law, Donna Toftey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bernard in 1979, and a sister, Doris, and sister-in-law, Avis.

Andrews Funeral Home, Belmond, IA, 641-444-4474.

George William Medlin

NORA SPRINGS — George William Medlin, 65, of Nora Springs died Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013, at the First United Methodist Church, 21 Third St. N.W., Rockford (via the Nora Springs exit) with Pastor Judy Wooton officiating.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 5 until 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City. The family requests casual attire.

Memorials may be directed to the George Medlin Memorial Fund in care of his family.

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

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

 Maynard Rieks

IOWA FALLS — Maynard Rieks, 96, of Iowa Falls, and formerly of Owasa, died Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at Scenic Manor, Iowa Falls.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 313 Lee Lane, Iowa Falls.

Visitation will be one hour before services at the church on Friday. Burial will be at the Northlawn Memory Gardens Cemetery, Iowa Falls, with military honors provided by Hyman Peavey American Legion Post No. 188, Iowa Falls.

The Linn’s Funeral Home, 1521 Washington Avenue, Iowa Falls, is in charge of arrangements.

Joyce M. Schweizer

ROCKFORD — Joyce M. Schweizer, 91, of Rockford, Iowa, died Saturday, September 21, 2013, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 27, 2013, at the Rudd United Methodist Church, 611 Sixth St., with Pastor Wendy Johannesen officiating. Burial will be held in Evergreen Cemetery, Rudd, Iowa. Visitation will be held at the Rudd United Methodist Church on Thursday, September 26, 2013, from 5-8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Joyce Schweizer memorial at 1704 Indigo Ave., Rudd, Iowa, 50471.

Joyce M. Schweizer was born Joyce Maxine Witzel, daughter of Wilbur and Christine (Frankson) Witzel, on May 6, 1922, in rural Rudd, Iowa.

She married Francis Leroy Schweizer on June 15, 1946, in Albert Lea, Minnesota.

Joyce was an active farm wife, church secretary, hospital volunteer, an avid card player, and had a heart of gold. She enjoyed family, friends, and neighbors, relishing the banter never realizing she was 91 years old. Her feistiness, and life force will be greatly missed.

She is survived by four sons and their spouses: James Leroy (Elaine), Loren Wilbur (and friend Deb), Merlyn Dale (Carol), Craig Lyle (Laurie); eleven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and four step-grandchildren.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Francis in 1999, daughter Alice, her parents, one brother, Lyle Witzel and one sister, Norma Toole.

Sheckler Colonial Chapel, 114 N. Hawkeye, Nora Springs, Iowa, 641- 749-210, ColonialChapels.com.

Lynn Allen Marchant

KLEMME — Lynn Allen Marchant, age 63, of Klemme, Iowa, died Friday, September 20, 2013, at his home in Klemme, Iowa, of complications of a variety of health issues.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, 2013, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman will officiate. Full military honors will be held at the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. Visitation will be today, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Andrews Funeral Home, 528 East Main, Klemme, and continue one hour prior to the service at church Thursday.

Memorials may be directed in care of the family to P.O. Box 224, Belmond, IA 50421.

Lynn A. Marchant, the son of John and Arlene (Pals) Parrish, was born July 26, 1950, at Fort Dodge, Iowa. He attended Clear Lake, Iowa, schools through the 10th grade. Lynn was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church.

Lynn proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, commencing his tenure on December 28, 1967, and served faithfully and valiantly until he was honorably discharged on December 14, 1970, at the Rank of SP4. He received the following commendations for his service including the Viet Nam Service Medal, 2 Bronze Service Stars, Sharpshooter Rifle, National Defense Medal, and Republic of Viet Nam Medal.

Lynn was united in marriage to Carol Kluckhohn. They were later divorced.

Upon returning to civilian life commenced a career as a self-employed contractor mostly in the residential sector. He later began a career as a welder with Winnebago Industries and later Stellar Manufacturing which he did for more than 20 years. Due to a decline in his health he retired at an early age.

Lynn had a life long love of the martial arts and attained his black belt in tae kwon do. He had also actively judged many competitions as a Level 3 Judge. He enjoyed golfing in earlier years and enjoyed assisting neighbors, family, and his friends with various tasks. He was always up for an afternoon outing, whether it was in his mini van, or more commonly one might see him tooling about Klemme in his jacked-up golf cart with his two faithful companions, his dogs, Peaches and Molly, perched in the seat on either side of him as they made there way around the community. He was always checking on the pulse of the town happenings and looked forward to many conversations as they went about their journey. His conversations with friends and acquaintances might also be heard on the airwaves of the CB radio that he faithfully communicated on nightly.

Lynn loved to collect many different things, including tractors, motorcycles, Coca-Cola memorabilia and numerous other items. He enjoyed collecting weapons such as guns and swords. He enjoyed old TV shows, and was always up for some banter about the politics of the times. He had been active in the Republican Party and served on the Republican National Campaign Committee in the 1970s. He had also belonged to the Klemme American Legion for many years.

He was a true patriot in so many different facets of his life. In recent times as his health kept him homebound, he looked forward to visits from his friends and family and his home health aide Tammy. He also enjoyed spending time on his computer.

He is survived by his son, Jeff and companion Amanda, Mason City, Iowa, and their son, Carter Allen Marchant; step-daughter, Angie Kluckhohn (Ted) Smith, Dubuque, Iowa; sister, Carla Thomason, and brother, Tom Marchant, both of Mason City, his aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous other family and friends.

Andrews Funeral Home, Klemme, Iowa, 641-587-2510.

Walter E. Ward

PLYMOUTH — Walter E. Ward, 89, of Plymouth, Iowa, died Monday, September 23, 2013, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 26, 2013, at St. James Lutheran Church, 1148 Fourth Street S.E., Mason City, with Pastor Paul C. Nelson officiating.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. today, Wednesday, September 25, 2013, at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Mason City. Interment will be held at the Plymouth Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Walter Ward Memorial Fund in care of his family.

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

Walter was born in Plymouth, Iowa, on April 8, 1924, the son of Homer and Loretta (Everhart) Ward. Walter attended Plymouth High School and graduated in 1943. Shortly after graduation, Walter entered the U.S. Army, receiving basic training in El Paso, Texas. While in Europe during World War II, Walter was wounded when their train was bombed while serving with a medical unit transporting the wounded from the front lines back to France. Although Walter enjoyed traveling, after being honorably discharged after the war Walter returned to the only place he ever considered living, Plymouth, Iowa.

On August 29, 1948, Walter married Irene Borchardt at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Rock Township, Mitchell County, Iowa.

Over the years, he worked for International Mineral and Chemical Corporation (27 years) and the Chicago and North Western Railway Co. (19 years) before his retirement in 1986.

Walter enjoyed spending time with his family. He also enjoyed woodworking, gardening, traveling, stamp collecting and was an avid antique collector.

Walter was thankful that he was able to cross a couple things off his bucket list: visiting the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., via the Honor Flight and traveling with his grandson, Dan, to see the California Redwoods. He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church.

Walter is survived by his wife of 65 years, Irene Ward of Plymouth; his children, David (Julie Braun) Ward of Mason City, Paul (Debra) Ward of Plymouth, Donna (Marlin) Jensen of Mason City and Julie (Steve) Nuehring of Mason City; nine grandchildren, Matthew Ward of Des Moines, Iowa, Daniel (Jen) Ruyter of Oviedo, Florida, Kristin Ruyter of Oviedo, Florida, Lucas Ward of Mason City, Christopher Jensen of Marion, Iowa, Ashley Ward of Mason City, Abbie (Blake) Upmeyer of Des Moines, Whitney Nuehring (fiancé, Derek Grote) of Boone, Iowa, and Cortney Nuehring of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; three great-grandchildren, Owen, Ethan and Lauren; and one sister, Marilyn Ward of Mason City. He is also survived by nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Diane Hagen; son, Dale Ward; and sister: Marjorie Murren.

Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

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

David Ray Stange

CLEAR LAKE — David Ray Stange, 33, Clear Lake, died Monday, September 23, 2013, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City, from complication from a brain injury.

A funeral service for David will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, September 27, 2013, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1309 South Kentucky Ave., Mason City, with Bishop Kevin Runolphson officiating. Burial will be in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Highway 18 West, Mason City. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time on Friday at the church.

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

David Ray Stange was born on November 7, 1979, in Columbia, Missouri, and was adopted by Larry and Kozette (Elbert) Stange at the age of 8 years old. David graduated from Mason City High School, and worked at Opportunity Village workshop, and the Kinney Lindstrom Center where he worked in packaging, and paper shredding.

David enjoyed eating out, music, going to the Iowa Cubs baseball games, watching football games with his friends and staff at the Opportunity Village in Clear Lake. David was always happy and warm and was able to make friends easily, and in high school, his nickname was Bopper.

Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Larry and Kozette Stange of Mason City; his siblings, Samuel (Tina) Stange of Mason City, Odessa (Michael) Pham of Mason City, Sophia (Venus) Limcharoen of Rochester, New York, and Abebi X. Stange of Opportunity Village in Clear Lake; his nieces and nephews, Samantha, Christina, Lily, Vincent, Vivian, Sebastian, Sariah, and Quentin; as well as other extended family members and friends.

David was preceded in death by his sister, Daisy; and his grandparents, Richard and Hope Elbert; and great-grandparents, Andrew and Agnes “Lou” Meyer.

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

Michael “Mike” L. Zubrod

CHARLES CITY — Michael “Mike” L. Zubrod, 39, of Charles City died Monday, September 23, 2013.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, September 27, 2013, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City.

Michael “Mike” Lee Zubrod was born December 27, 1973, in Charles City, Iowa the son of Larry and Cheri (Haugen) Zubrod. He received his education in Charles City and graduated from Charles City High School. Mike helped Larry with farming and recently worked at Mitas Tires North America Inc. in Charles City.

He loved golfing with his father, cousin Shawn and friend Gary, fishing and playing softball. Mike had a very loving heart and soul.

Mike is survived by his parents, Larry and Cheri Zubrod of Charles City; paternal grandparents, Orville and Velma Zubrod of Alta Vista; maternal grandmother, Beverly Haugen of Cresco; children, Ronan Michael, Levi Zachary and Alexandria (his step-daughter); two sisters, Kacie Mink of St. Peters, Mo., and Rebecca Wright of Sherman, Texas; two nephews, Taylor Mink and Garrett Wright; lifelong special friend, Denise Stout; along with many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, other family members and numerous friends.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Gordon Haugen, and his two beloved uncles, Rich Haugen and Roger Tibbitts.

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.

John T. “Jack” McGuire

ALGONA — John T. “Jack” McGuire, 50, of Algona died Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, at the Good Samaritan Society-Algona.

Visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 27, from 4 until 8 p.m. at Oakcrest Funeral Services in Algona.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28, at St. Cecelia Catholic Church with Father Edward Girres officiating. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery.

Oakcrest Funeral Services-Algona, 515-295-3731, www.oakcrestfuneralservices.com.

Posted on 25 September 2013  by Marie Thompson