William "Tom" Casey

November 6, 2002

William "Tom" Casey, 81, of Waterloo, formerly of New Haven, died at home on Friday, November 1, 2002.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, November 6, at the St. Edward's Catholic Church. Burial was in the Waterloo Cemetery. Military flag-folding rites were conducted by the American Legion Post 138 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1623. Memorials may be directed to the Cedar Valley Hospice.

William "Tom" Casey, was born on March 27, 1921 in Elma, a son of Frank and Florence Kane Casey. He married Mary Jane Kullen on July 31, 1948 in Waterloo. Casey served as a tech sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He worked as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for 40 years, retiring in 1982, then later worked at Greenwood Drug for 11 years.

Casey was preceded in death by a brother, James.

His Survivors include his wife; two brothers, Francis of Texas and Maurice "Dick" of Waterloo; and a sister, Patricia Lewis of Des Moines.

The Hagarty-Waychoff-Grarup Funeral Service on West Ridgeway was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Albin Nerad

November 6, 2002

Albin Nerad, 96, of St. Ansgar, died on Friday, November 1, 2002, at the Good Samaritan Center in St. Ansgar.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 5, at the St. Ansgar Catholic Church, St. Ansgar, Iowa. Father Mark Reasoner officiated. Burial was in the St. Ansgar Cemetery.

Albin Nerad, was born on September 15, 1906 in Freeborn County, Minnesota, the son of August and Anna (Jilek) Nerad. On October 4, 1929, he was united in marriage to Clara Jean Kerckhove in Osage, Iowa. In 1930, they moved to a farm east of St. Ansgar where they farmed until 1972 when they retired and moved to St. Ansgar. In 1992, Albin and Clara observed their 63rd wedding anniversary and later that year Clara passed away.

Albin enjoyed gardening, fishing, playing cards with special friends and his family and especially his grandchildren. He also liked to pick black walnuts, crack and clean them and sell them to many customers. In the fall of 2000 he moved to the Good Samaritan Center.

Preceding Albin in death were his wife, Clara; brothers, Frank, Louis and Ed; sisters, Frances Eklund and Bessie Kerckhove; and his parents, August and Anna Nerad.

Survivors include his sons and wives, Victor and Linda of St. Ansgar, Richard and Marilyn of Osage, Kenneth and Harriet of Walker, Minnesota; eight grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and four step-great- grandchildren.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Barry Klapperich

November 13, 2002

Barry Klapperich, 49, of Whitefish, Montana, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 2, 2002, from complications of Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.

A private viewing was held last week and cremation has taken place. A memorial service, officiated by Tim Bartholomew, was held on Saturday, November 9, 2002, at the Stillwater Free Lutheran Church, Kalispell, Montana. A memorial prayer service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, November 30, 2002, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Meyer, Iowa. Fellowship and lunch will follow in the church basement.

Barry was born on July 23, 1953 at Osage, to Lawrence and Esther Klapperich. He grew up on the family farm near Stacyville. He was raised there with his brothers, Owen and Reid and sisters, Rose and Dorette. He attended school in Meyer and St. Ansgar. On December 15, 1979, he married Beverly Fisher in Riceville. They moved to Montana in 1981 and made their home in Whitefish. They have one daughter, Tina.

Barry enjoyed many things especially spending time with his daughter, Tina. Fishing, camping, hiking, horseback riding, spending time with friends and family, playing cards and golfing, were among his joys.

Through the years, Barry was a guide on horseback tours in Glacier National Park, he did ranch work, trained horses, and shod horses. He also guided hunting and fishing trips into the Bob Marshall and Great Bear Wilderness areas. He and his wife, Bev owned and operated the Spring Prairie Garden in Whitefish.

Barry was preceded in death by their daughter, Julie Ellen Klapperich eight months old; and an infant sister, Judy.

Barry is survived by his wife, Beverly Fisher Klapperich and daughter, Tina of Whitefish; his parents, Lawrence and Esther Klapperich of Stacyville; brothers, Owen (Linda) Klapperich of Kalispell, Montana and Reid (Barb) Klapperich of Stacyville; sisters, Rose (Dave) Schubert of Austin, Minnesota and Dorette (Leonard) Fravel of Cresco; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Barry's spirit touched many people. He shared his love of the outdoors with family and friends. He was quick to lend a helping hand, and had a wonderful spirit towards many people.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Howard James Richmond

November 6, 2002

Howard James Richmond, age 77, of Osage, died on Sunday, November 3, 2002, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, November 7, 2002, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage. The Rev. Jerry Newland will officiate. Visitation will be from 1-2:00 p.m., on Thursday, at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Osage Cemetery, with Military Rites conducted by the American Legion Post 278.

Howard James Richmond, was born on January 2, 1925 in Frederika, Iowa, the son of Charles and Edna (Flood) Richmond. He served in the U.S. Navy during WW II as a signalman. Howard was united in marriage to Charlette Shadbolt on January 12, 1946, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. He owned and operated the Delta Printing Company in Osage for many years. He was also employed by the Marigold Dairy and then by Winnebago Industries as a printer in the advertising department, until retiring in 1986.

Howard enjoyed woodworking, making clocks and sports, especially fishing. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Osage and the Osage American Legion Post 278.

Richmond was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Maxine Richmond; and his wife, Charlette on October 5, 1995.

Howard's survivors include three sons, Ron Richmond and wife, Mary of North Liberty, Iowa, Keith Richmond and wife, Lisa of Chariton, Iowa and Kent Richmond and wife, Lana of Champaign, Illinois; and seven grandchildren.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Walt Vining

November 6, 2002

Walt Vining, age 90, of Osage, died on Monday, November 4, 2002, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage. Walter was born on February 14, 1912.

A private family service was held on Monday, November 4, 2002. The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home of Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

G. Marjorie Bruggeman

November 13, 2002

G. Marjorie Bruggeman, 84, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2002, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 6, at the St. Peter Lutheran Church, Toeterville, Iowa. Pastor Elaine Siemson officiated. Burial was in the St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery at Toeterville.

Bruggeman was born on November 16, 1917, the daughter of Henry K. and Bertha Hovland Nelson in Scarville, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church and remained a faithful member until her peaceful death on November 4. Marge was married to Frederick Bruggeman on March 22, 1942 and they were the parents of Frederic, David, Ruth Ann, Mark and Mary.

Her 84 years of life were packed full of wonderful memories of her days as a teacher in rural schools, wonderful mother to five grateful children, co-partner in the grocery store with her husband, assistant to Dr. Blong and Dr. Smith, and then back to just being the best mother and grandmother one could hope for. She is well-known for her quick wit and willingness to come to the aid of anyone in need, being a friend to all.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Gladys Purrnington; brothers, Harry and Conrad; and her husband, Fred.

Survivors include her children, Fredric and his wife, Glory of Yuba City, California, David and his wife, Vickie of Toeterville, Ruth Ann of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, Mark and his wife, Dawn of Edina, Minnesota and Mary and her husband, John Muller of Carpenter; eight grandchildren, Scott and Greg, Tammy and Stacy and her fiancée, Chad Huhn, Laurie and Jay and his wife, Jenna, Meghan and Katie; brother, Kenneth Nelson and his wife, Agnes; sisters-in-law, Ruth Nelson of Stacyville and Darlene Kittleson and her husband, Galen; and nieces and nephews.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Vera Katherine "Kay" Gutman

November 13, 2002

Vera Katherine "Kay" Gutman, 77, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Monday, November 4, 2002.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 6, at the Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, Iowa. Rev. Paul Phillips officiated and burial was in the St. Ansgar Cemetery.

Kay was born on July 11, 1925 in Mitchell, Iowa, to William Daniel and Vera (Tesch) Robertson. The family moved to Osage, where she completed her education and later became a teacher. She taught country school in Grafton and in March of 1944 she married Rudy Gutman of St. Ansgar. To this union were born three sons, Michael, Verne and David who died shortly after birth.

Vera was preceded in death by her parents; husband; one son; and one brother, Gene Robertson.

She is survived by her sons, Michael and his wife, Annett of Chrtismas, Florida and Verne and his wife, Vicky of Greene, Iowa; daughter, Mary Rosenthal and her husband, Bob of Austin, Minnesota; sisters, Ann Atchley of El Derado Springs, Missouri and Ruth Collette of Austin, Minnesota; 14 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Leona Jacobs

November 13, 2002

Leona Jacobs, 83, of Nora Springs, Iowa, died on Monday, November 4, 2002, at the Nora Springs Care Center. 

Funeral services were held on Friday, November 8, at the Rudd United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Lisa Locoh, senior pastor, officiating. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery at Rudd.

Leona Lydia Lacour Jacobs, was born on September 25, 1919 in rural Charles City, the daughter of Fredrick and Martha (Hirsch) Lacour. She graduated from the Orchard High School in 1936. On February 28, 1940, she was united in marriage to John A. Jacobs, Sr. at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They were married 62 years and were members of the Golden Wedding Club.

Leona was a devoted farm wife starting at Bristow and moving to Rudd where they resided until moving to the Nora Springs Care Center. She loved tending her garden of vegetables and flowers. Her kitchen was often filled with the aroma of fresh baked goods. Leona enjoyed writing poetry, reading books, doing jigsaw puzzles and playing 500.

She was an active member of the Rudd United Methodist Church, the UMW, receiving a lifetime membership pin in 1974, served as an officer at the local and district level and was a devoted Sunday School Teacher. Leona was a 4-H Leader and mentored her children and many other youth. She enjoyed the Rudd Senior Citizens Group and volunteering her time for church and community activities. Leona lived life to the fullest and enjoyed her family.

Jacobs was preceded in death by her husband, John on June 9, 2002; her parents; two brothers, Milton and Clarence Lacour; and two sisters, Mabel Shorey and one in infancy.

Her survivors include her four children, John Jr. and Norma Jacobs of Manson, Kathy and George Tumilson of Rockford, Barb and Steve Thiher of Cedar Rapids and Deb Weiss of Iowa City; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and two future great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and four step-great-grandchildren.

Memorial may be made to the Rudd United Methodist Church or to Alzheimer's research.

The Hauser Funeral Home had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Pamela Marie Gast

November 13, 2002

Pamela Marie Gast, age 53, of rural Nora Springs, died on Wednesday, November 6, 2002, at her home following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Funeral services were held on Monday, November 11, at the Rock Creek Lutheran Church southwest of Osage. The Reverend R. Dawson Tornes officiated and interment was in the Rock Creek Cemetery, rural Osage.

Pam was born on October 3, 1949 in Osage, the daughter of Kenneth and Bertilla (Isaac) Pint. She attended Osage Schools and graduated from the Osage High School in 1968. Pam received her nurse's training from the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Sioux City, graduating in May 1971. She was united in marriage to Thomas Gast on June 25, 1971 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage. They lived and farmed southwest of Osage. She was employed as a nurse at the White House Nursing Home, Osage Medical Clinic, Faith Lutheran Home, all in Osage and then at the Mercy Family Clinic-Forest Park in Mason City.

Pam was an active member of the Rock Creek Lutheran Church. She enjoyed gardening, sewing and cooking. She also loved watching her children participate in sports and lately spoiling her grandchildren. She was the family and neighborhood "Ask A Nurse."

Pam was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Pint in 1975; maternal grandparents, John and Lizzy Isaac; and paternal grandparents, Laurence and Helen Pint.

Survivors include her mother, Bert Pint of Osage; husband, Tom Gast of rural Nora Springs; two daughters, Nicki Prantner and husband, Michael of rural Hampton and their children, Cody and Jordan, Robin Gast of rural Nora Springs; one son, Eric Gast of rural Rudd; three sisters, LuAnn Budahn and husband, Bruce of Austin, Minnesota, Lynda Johnson and husband, Larry of Osage and Gwen Driscoll and husband, Mark of Osage; three brothers, Curt Pint and wife, Jeanne of Dickeyville, Wisconsin, Lynn Pint of Osage and Neil Pint and wife, Missy of Lenexa, Kansas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Phyllis Dieterichs McComas

November 13, 2002

Phyllis Dieterichs McComas, 76, a retired teachers assistant, died on Wednesday, November 6, 2002, in Glen Rose, Texas.

Funeral services were held on Friday, November 8, at the Wiley Funeral Home in Granbury, Texas. Burial was in the Granbury Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Lutheran Women's Missionary League at Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Granbury, Texas.

McComas was born on September 11, 1926 in Osage, Iowa, to Maylon and Agnes Bertram Dieterichs. She married Jack Fredrick McComas on February 20, 1959 in Hollywood, California and was a member of the Our Saviour Lutheran Church, the Lutheran Women's Missionary League and the Indian Harbor Ladies Club.

Survivors include a daughter, Cyndy Hatton and husband, David of Granbury; son, Mark McComas and wife, Cathrine of Ocean Side, California; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Jacob, Katie, Laila, Jennay, Alex and Valerie; brother, Edgar Dieterichs and wife, Lorita of Wichita Falls, Texas; and an aunt, Katharina Cole of Granbury.

The Wiley Funeral Home, Granbury, Texas, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Obert E. Nelson

November 13, 2002

Obert E. Nelson, age 87, of Osage, died on Wednesday, November 6, 2002, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center-Hospice Unit in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 9, at the Rock Creek Lutheran Church southwest of Osage. Reverend R. Dawson Tornes officiated and interment was in the Rock Creek Cemetery, rural Osage.

Obert was born on August 28, 1915 on the family farm in Floyd County, Iowa, the son of Oscar and Etta (Iverson) Nelson. He was educated in rural county schools and attended the Osage High School. Obert was united in marriage to Lola Barrett on June 10, 1936 at the Barrett family home. They farmed in Floyd County. Obert was a saddle, leather and western wear salesman. They owned and operated a saddle shop on their farm. They have lived in Osage since 1966. Obert was a faithful member of the Rock Creek Lutheran Church, where he was baptized and confirmed. He enjoyed woodworking, horseback riding and fishing and loved his family very much.

Preceding Obert in death were his parents; one daughter, Joyce in 1954; and one sister; Alma Kling.

Survivors include his wife, Lola Nelson of Osage; one son, Gary Nelson and his wife, Mary Ann of Mason City; two granddaughters, Shawna Germundson of Osage and Angela Haag of Coralville, Iowa; and three great-grandchildren, Chelsey, Garet and Greysen Obert Germundson.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Darwin K. Sloan

November 13, 2002

Darwin Keith Sloan, age 81, of McIntire, Iowa, died on Thursday, November 7, 2002, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City, Iowa.

Memorial services were held at 12:00 noon, on Sunday, November 10, at the Hindt-Hutchins Funeral Home in LeRoy, Minnesota. There was no viewing. The body was cremated and burial was in the Wayne Cemetery following the service. Memorials are suggested to the Muse Norris Hospice of North Iowa.

Darwin Keith Sloan, was born on September 28, 1921 in Bailey, Iowa, to Ervin Sloan and Dathryn Papach Sloan. He worked as a construction supervisor.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Darwin's survivors include a daughter, Leona (Roger) Rasmussen of Nora Springs, Iowa; sons, Roger (Cathy) Sloan of Atalissa, Iowa and Dennis Sloan of Cedar Rapids; daughters, Charlene (Ken) West of Cedar Falls and Rose Hubler of Anamosa and Debra (Tim) Frame of Dewitt; 16 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

The Hindt-Hutchins Funeral Home in LeRoy, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Harry B. Mack

November 13, 2002

Harry B. Mack, age 90, of Osage, died on Friday, November 8, 2002, at the Faith Home in Osage. 

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 12, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage. The Reverend Karen Nichols Dungan officiated. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery.

Harry was born on November 26, 1911 in Howell, Michigan, the son of Glen and Alma (Birdseil) Mack. He was united in marriage to Madeline O'Conner on October 9, 1948 in Gaylord, Michigan. They moved from Michigan to Osage in 1984 and farmed west of Osage.

Preceding Mack in death were his parents; wife, Madeline in 2001; and granddaughter, Melissa Mack.

His survivors include one son, Robert Mack and his wife, Carol and their children, Michael, Mitchell, Matthew and Marshal of Osage; and one sister, Marjorie Mack of Osage.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Marie Boggess Zimmerman

November 13, 2002

Marie Boggess Zimmerman, 86, of Charles City, formerly of Bassett, passed away on Saturday, November 9, 2002, at the 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City, of natural causes.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, November 13, at the Chenoweth & Son Funeral Home in Nashua. Burial is in the Mt. Carroll Cemetery, rural Ionia. 

Marie was born in Howard County on October 3, 1916, the daughter of Harry and Myrtle (Weber) Clark. She was united in marriage to Raymond Boggess in Waterloo on June 20, 1934 and to Farrald Zimmerman on October 17, 1986 at Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. She attended the Colwell High School and worked as a housekeeper.

Preceding Marie in death were her husbands, Raymond Boggess on June 3, 1985 and Farreld Zimmerman; a son, Jerry in infancy; two daughters, Lorraine Boggess and Wilma Fisher; her parents; four brothers, Harold, Kenneth, Delbert and James Clark; one sister, Lola Venz; and a grandson, Bob Goodale.

Marie's survivors include four children, Phyllis (Dennis) Stock of Ionia, Ruby (Kenneth) Goodale of Osage, Donald (Lanora) Boggess of Cedar Falls and Donna (Dean) Lynch of Floyd; 21 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

The Chenoweth & Son Funeral Home, LTD. Nashua-Fredericksburg, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Mildred J. Borchert

November 20, 2002

Mildred J. Borchert, age 78, of rural Grafton, died on Wednesday, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Grafton. The Reverend Wayne Ellingson officated. Interment was in the Grafton Cemetery, Grafton, Iowa.

Mildred was born on August 11, 1924 in Lake Mills, Iowa, to Andrew and Otilda (Breckson) Chose. She married Warren Borchert on October 24, 1942, at the Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills, Iowa. She and her husband farmed near Grafton.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Warren; sons, Steve and Larry; daughter-in-law, Barb; seven sisters; and two brothers.

Her survivors include one son, Stanley Borchert and his wife, Kathy of Auburndale, Wisconsin; two daughters, Charlotte Cole and her husband, Gary of Plymouth and Linda Patterson and her husband, Virgil of St. Ansgar; seven grandchildren, Michael Cole and his wife, Nichole, Michelle Hill and her husband, Andy, Nathan Bochert, Kyli Borchert and her fiancée, Jeremy Brown, Adam Borchert and his wife, Tracy, MacKenzie Patterson and Corey Patterson; and two great-grandchildren, Mitchell Cole and Hannah Hill.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Lorraine Carolyn Gonnerman

November 20, 2002

Lorraine Carolyn Gonnerman, 63, of Camp of the Woods, Dinorwic, Ontario, Canada, went to be with her Savior on Wednesday, November 13, 2002, in Mason City, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 16, at the St. Ansgar Baptist Church. Pastor David Moore of Waterloo officiated. Burial was in the St. Ansgar Cemetery, St. Ansgar, Iowa.

She received Jesus Christ as her personal Saviour in October 1953, after seeing Billy Graham's film "Oiltown U.S.A." Lorraine graduated from the Dysart High School and later from Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Lorraine worked as a secretary at both the Back To The Bible Broadcast, Lincoln, Nebraska and the Normandy Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Florida. She began her ministry as a missionary at Camp of the Woods in Canada on July 3, 1975 and faithfully served the Lord there until she had to leave because of cancer on Friday, November 8, 2002.

Gonnerman was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Beverly; and two brothers-in-law, William Dwyer and Wentzel Kern; and sister-in-law, Nita Gonnerman.

She is survived by four sisters, Angelene of Elkader, Virginia of Toldeo, Maydine of St. Ansgar and Vir Jean of Union Gove, Wisconsin; five brothers, Burnell of Ankeny, Dean and his wife, Eunice of Portland, Oregon, LaVerne and his wife, Esther of Bondurant, Gary and his wife, Sheryl of St. Ansgar and Allen and his wife, Jan of Montgomery, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home of St. Ansgar, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Delores Elaine Thompson

November 20, 2002

Delores Elaine Thompson, age 76, of Toeterville, Iowa, died on Wednesday, November 13, 2002, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 16, at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Toeterville. The Reverend Doctor Elaine Siemsen officiated. Interment was in the St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery, Toeterville.

Delores Elaine Thompson, was born on August 25, 1926, the daughter of Edwin and Mary Johnson Pike in Otranto Township. She was baptized at the Deer Creek Lutheran Church and confirmed at the First Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar. She married M. Dean Thompson on November 10, 1946 and to this union were born Mavis, Vickie, Geraldine and David. Delores was a bookkeeper at the Northwood Lumber Company and then at the Stacyville Lumber Company, until her retirement.

Her interests included gardening, word puzzles, bingo, embroidery and baking. She always enjoyed giving to others.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Dean; her parents; three sisters, Laura Hendrickson, Evelyn Nelson and Diane Pike; and six brothers, Earl, Pearl, Erwin, Anton, Lawrence and Warren.

Thompson is survived by three daughters, Mavis and husband, Harvey Fischer of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Vickie and husband, David Bruggeman of Toeterville and Geraldine (Jerry) of Marion, Iowa; son, David also of Marion; four grandchildren, Tammy and Stacy and her fiancée, Chad Huhn, Lucas and Connor Burr; two sisters, Edna Knutson of Riverside, California and Chrystal and her husband, Everett Braun of Grafton; sisters-in-law, Bernice Pike, Marion and husband, Howard Bless; brother-in-law, Harvey and wife, Betty Thompson; and many nieces and nephews as well as a host of other relatives and friends.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Alma J. Mennenga

November 27, 2002

Alma J. Mennenga, age 92, of Belmond, died on Thursday, November 14, 2002, at the Belmond Health Care Center in Belmond. 

Funeral services were held on Monday, November 18, at the Immanuel Reformed Church east of Belmond. The Reverend Rob Ford officiated. Burial was in the church cemetery.

Alma Dorenkamp, was born on September 29, 1910 in Wright County, Iowa near Meservey, the daughter of Bene and Emma (Stadtlander) Dorenkamp. She attended Meservey Schools. Alma made her confession of faith at the Immanuel Reformed Church. In earlier years of her life she had done housekeeping and cooking for various families in the area. She was united in marriage to George Mennenga at the Immanuel Reformed Parsonage, rural Belmond, on February 11, 1931. They lived and farmed northeast of Belmond until 1970, when they retired and moved into Belmond. They moved to the Belmond Retirement Home in 1989.

Alma was a member of RCW. She taught Sunday School and catechism for a number of years. She was a member of the Senior Citizens in Belmond.

Preceding Alma in death were her parents; husband, George in August 1998; an infant son; and a brother, Emil Dorenkamp.

Alma's survivors include a son, Curtis Mennenga and wife, Kaye of Ankeny; a daughter, Marilyn Cance and husband, Don of Vero Beach, Florida; son, Craig Mennenga and wife, Carol of Osage; a sister, Esther Bohning of Belmond; sisters-in-law, Alida Dorenkamp of Belmond, Minnie Mennenga of Belmond and Janet Boelman and husband, Jelto of Belmond; three grandchildren; one great-grandson; and many nieces and nephews.

The Tenold-Andrews Funeral Homes at Belmond, were in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Betty J. Kruse

November 20, 2002

Mrs. Betty J. Kruse, 72, of DeWitt, Iowa, died on Friday evening, November 15, 2002, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, following an extended illness.

A service of Christian burial was held on Tuesday, November 19, at the Grace Lutheran Church, DeWitt, with the Rev. Keith Speaks officiating. Interment was in the Davenport Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the Grace Lutheran Church, DeWitt.

Mrs. Kruse, the former Betty Joan Petersen, was born on January 11, 1930 in DeWitt, the daughter of Henry A. and Clara M. (Gade) Petersen. She married Harold H. Kruse on June 4, 1950 at Grand Mound. He preceded her in death on October 25, 1971.

Betty graduated salutatorian from the Grand Mound High School in 1946 and worked at the Iowa Mutual Insurance Company of DeWitt until she married. She was a homemaker and then returned to Iowa Mutual in 1974 until retirement in 1998, and was a member of the Iowa Mutual 20-Year Club. She was a devout member of the Grace Lutheran Church, DeWitt and the LWML. Betty enjoyed her family and visiting with friends.

Surviving are her six children, Marilyn Mundt and her husband, Robert of DeWitt, Alan Kruse and his wife, Janice of DeWitt, Bill G. Kruse and his wife, Susan of DeWitt, Nancy Spain and her husband, Larry of Delmar, Janet Ham and her husband, Jim of Osage and Jolene Kruse of Davenport; 13 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; two step-grandsons; five step-great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary E. (Mrs. Henry) Scott of Maquoketa; three sisters-in-law, Lola Petersen of Davenport, June Petersen of DeWitt and Edeline Schmidt of Davenport.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Howard and Robert; a sister, Margaret Moeller; and an infant sister, Dorothy Lucille.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Lewis Charles "Chuck" Lindgren

November 27, 2002

Lewis Charles "Chuck" Lindgren, 56, of Clear Lake, Iowa, died at his home on Tuesday, November 19, 2002.

Memorial services were held on Friday, November 22, at the Zion Lutheran Church, Clear Lake. The Rev. Kermit Roisen officiated and inurnment will be at a later date.

Lewis Charles "Chuck" Lindgren, was born on October 19, 1946 in Mason City, Iowa, the son of Oliver A. and Clara (Metcalf) Lindgren. He graduated from the Arnolds Park High School in 1964 and earned his B.A. Degree in English in 1968. He was united in marriage to Nancy Freeburg on August 26, 1967 at Arnolds Park. Chuck also earned his Master's Degree in School Administration in 1975 at the University of South Dakota.

After completing his schooling he taught 10th grade English in Hawarden. In 1976, he became Vice Principal in the Le Mars Community School until 1983 when they moved to Charles City where he owned a Sears franchise store. Upon moving to Clear Lake in 1986, he taught classes in economics at Buena Vista and NIACC in Mason City, until 1991. In 1992 through 1994, he worked as a sales representative for Gateway computers, and in 1995 until the time of his death he worked as the safety and transportation director at Opportunity Village in Clear Lake.

He enjoyed photography, fishing, boating, cars, and Harley Davidson motorcycles, but his great love and enjoyment was his family and grandchildren. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Clear Lake and was a former member of the First United Methodist Church in Charles City.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Nancy Lindgren of Clear Lake; his children, Andrea Baltzell and her husband, John of Eden Prairie, Minnesota and Erik Lindgren and his wife, Dawn of Osage; two grandchildren, Morgan and Lauren Baltzell of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; as well as other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel of Clear Lake, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Leon Hanford Lindley

November 27, 2002

Leon Hanford Lindley, 80, of La Porte City, formerly of Osage, died on Wednesday, November 20, 2002, at his home, following a short illness of cancer.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, November 23, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church, Washburn. Inurnment will be at a later date in the Rock Creek Cemetery.

Leon was born on November 4, 1922 in Osage, Iowa, to Carl and Cora Kensrue Lindley. He married Georgia I. Pike on September 8, 1943 in Bethany, Missouri. He was an Electrician working for several different companies. He served in WW II with the US Marines.

Survivors include his wife, Georgia; three sons, Larry and wife, Hetti of Hampton, Terry and wife, Carol and Leon Jr. and wife, Sandra, all of La Porte City; two daughters, Carolyn Hewitt and husband, Ron and Marilyn Lindley, all of Des Moines; a sister, Ione Anderson of Northfield, Minnesota; sixteen grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Harlan; and a son, Steven.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Washburn, or to the Cedar Valley Hospice.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Bruce E. Roethler

November 27, 2002

Bruce E. Roethler, 40, of Elma, died of natural causes on Friday, November 22, 2002, at the Colonial Manor Home in Elma.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 26, at the St. Peters Lutheran Church in Riceville. Reverend Michael Parris presided. Inurnment will be at a later date in the church cemetery.

Bruce Edward Roether, was born on February 15, 1962 at Des Moines, the first child of Donald and Lavonne (Worple) Roethler. He was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith at the St. Peters Lutheran Church in Riceville. He lived with his parents and sister on farms between Riceville and Elma and attended school in Riceville. In June of 1991, at the age of 29 he was severely injured in an automobile accident that left him totally disabled.

Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Donald Roethler; and a nephew, Brandon Pearson.

His survivors include three sons, Mark of Elma, Paul stationed with the U.S. Navy in Washington state and James of Hampton; a grandson, Dillon of Elma; his mother, Lavonne Roethler of Riceville; a sister, Brenda (Steve) Schroetter of Lime Springs; and three nephews, Joshua, Jacob and Daniel Schroetter of Lime Springs.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Mazie Grace Stearns

November 27, 2002

Mazie Grace Stearns, 93, of Osage, died on Friday, November 22, 2002, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Saturday, November 30, at the United Church of Christ in Osage. Reverend Robert Melhorn will officiate. A gathering of family and friends will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. Inurnment will be at a later date in the Osage cemetery. Her body was donated to the University of Iowa Medical School.

She was born on October 11, 1909 in Osage, the first child of Fred and Zadie (Tupper) Stearns. Her entire life was spent in Osage except for her years at college. She attended the Osage Schools and graduated in 1927 and attended Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, graduating in 1931 with an English and Latin Degree. Because of the depression she was unable to find employment with her degree, so she worked at Scott's Store, tutored students, substitute taught 8th graders, wrote the Osage News for the Mason City newspaper and worked for Bill Burns Insurance from 1942 to 1947. In 1947 Mazie and her brother-in-law, Claire French, brought a women's and children's clothing store from Jenny Kelly and operated the store until 1972, when they sold it to Jeannine Horn.

Mazie golfed, bowled, played cards, bicycled, gardened, knitted and entertained her four nieces and one nephew. She was a member of the United Church of Christ where she was envelope secretary for 62 years. She was a member of P.E.O. for 69 years. Mazie loved the Osage community and especially Spring Park. Many days were spent walking in the park and enjoying a family picnic. She moved into her home on State Street 1n 1925 and lived there until her death. Mazie will be sadly missed and forever remembered by her family.

Preceding her in death were her parents; a younger brother, Dr. Fritz Stearns in 1949; and a younger sister, Bee Bradford in 1998.

Stearns's survivors include a brother, Bill Stearns of Iowa City; sister, Helen French and husband, Claire of Osage; four nieces, Anne Tanner of Iowa City, Nancy Danforth and husband, Jerry of Cedar Rapids, Sally Miller and her husband, Bob of Osage and Jean Larson and her husband, Lars of Fairfax, Virginia; one nephew, Dr. Rick Stearns and his wife, Linda of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and all of their families.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Mildred Margaret Caffrey

November 27, 2002

Mildred Margaret Caffrey, 89, formerly of McIntire, died on Saturday, November 23, 2002, at the Riceville Community Rest Home in Riceville, Iowa.

Private family funeral services were held on Monday, November 25, at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Riceville. Reverend Michael Carey officiated. Burial was in the Clear Lake Cemetery in Clear Lake, Iowa.

Mildred was born on July 16, 1913 at Ventura, Iowa, to John C. and Maude Thomas Grell. She attended school at the Ventura Consolidated School and graduated in 1931. After graduating she attended Iowa State Teacher's College and taught in a rural school during the 1931-32 school year. She was married to Virgil Caffrey of Swaledale, Iowa, on August 5, 1933 at New Hampton, Iowa and to this union two daughters, Leora and Geri were born.

During the teacher shortage she returned to college and taught for 35 years including schools in Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas and Minnesota, the last 19 years at Caledonia, Minnesota. Virgil Caffrey passed away in 1967 and she continued to live in McIntire until her death. She loved flowers and her yard was a place of beauty. She was an ardent quilter and made quilts for her entire family.

Preceding Mildred in death were her parents; husband; two brothers, Carl and Walter Grell; three sisters, Alice Barton, Nettie Zook and Cora Spurrier; a step-son, Darrell Caffrey; and two granddaughters, Becky and Diane Martin.

Her survivors include two daughters, Leora Huddleston of McIntire, Iowa and Geri Martin of Schaller, Iowa; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Ruby Barlow of Mason City.

The Lindstrom Funeral Home, Riceville, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Harold E. Hauge

December 4, 2002

Harold E. Hauge, age 76, of Osage, died on Tuesday, November 26, 2002, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, November 30, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage. The Rev. Roy Ott officiated. A gathering of friends and family was held one hour before the services. Inurnment was in the Osage Cemetery, with a Flag Presentation by the Osage American Legion Post 278.

Harold E. Hauge was born on August 26, 1926 in Litchfield, Minnesota, the son of Elmer E. and Ruby F. (Finch) Hauge. He graduated from the Faribault High School in Faribault, Minnesota in 1944. He entered the Navy in 1945 for 18 months. Following his service in the Navy he attended Waldorf College where he met his future wife. He moved to Osage after college and worked at Art's Shoe Store. He was united in marriage to Phyllis Olson on May 23, 1948, at the Lutheran Church in Austin, Minnesota. They made their home in Osage.

After Art's Shoe Store was sold Harold started his own business, "Harold's Saddlery," which he operated for many years. Harold was a CB Radio buff for many years. He was a member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage and the Osage American Legion Post #278. Harold was also a Boy Scout Leader many years ago.

Preceding Harold in death were his adoptive parents; wife, Phyllis on May 7, 1975; father-in-law, Art Olson; and mother-in-law, Ruth Olson.

Survivors include a step-mother-in-law, Eleanor Olson of Osage; and dear friends, Leona and John Dontje of Estherville, Berdene Heck of Osage and her three children, Charlene and Donald Vickers of Kennedale, Texas, Luella and Richard Mueller of Forest City, Joseph and Charlene Heck of Northwood and their families.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Doris W. Brandau

December 4, 2002

Doris W. Brandau, 87, of Osage, died on Thursday, November 28, 2002, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage.

Memorial Services were held on Monday, December 2, at the Eden Presbyterian Church, rural Rudd. Reverend John Bates officiated and inurnment was in the Eden Presbyterian Cemetery.

Doris was born on July 2, 1915, to Hattie Muller and William Bortz and graduated from the Rudd High School in 1933. She was married to Chester Brandau on February 18, 1938 at her family farm. They made their home north of Rudd. After spending many winters in Harlingen, Texas, they retired in Osage. She was the first resident at the Evergreen Apartments and then moved to the Faith Lutheran Home. She was a member of the Eden Presbyterian Church.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Chester in 1991; son, Harlan in 1999; sister, Tillie Schmidt; and brother, Alvin Bortz.

Her survivors include a daughter, Lavon (Mel) Johansen of Harlingen, Texas; sons, Loren (Sue) Bradnau of Osage and Max (Karen) Brandau of Nora Springs; daughter-in-law, Linda Brandau of Nora Springs; nine grandchildren, Christine (Tony) Ximens of Raymondville, Texas, Melinda (Abel) Almendarez of Harlingen, Texas, Curtis (Cheryl) Brandau of Rudd, Jerry (Lisa) Brandau of Ames, Scott (Vicki Brandau of Osage, Justin Brandau of Bloomington, Minnesota, Dawn Brandau of Ames, Kathie (Tim) Blake of Osage and Teresa Brandau of Mason City; and by 14 great-grandchildren.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home had charge of the arrangements.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Cleonora Weness

December 11, 2002

Cleonora A. Weness, 87, of Adams, Minnesota, formerly of Melvin, Iowa, died on Friday, November 29, 2002, at the Austin Medical Center.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, December 3, at the Six Mile Grove Church, with the Rev. Lydia Mittag officiating. Casket bearers were David Weness, Brian Sampson, Roger Weness, Brian Weness, Steven Sampson and Mark Weness. Burial was in the Six Mile Grove Lutheran Cemetery in Lyle, Minnesota.

Cleonora was born on March 13, 1915 in Lyle, Minnesota, to Oscar and Rena (Nelson) Sampson. She was baptized and confirmed at the Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church and graduated from the Lyle High School. Cleonora worked as a housekeeper until her marriage to Kenneth S. Weness on November 22, 1942 at the St. Olaf Parsonage in Austin. Following Kenneth's time in the service, they made their home in Adams, Minnesota until 1950, when they moved to Melvin, Iowa, where they owned and operated the locker plant. They traveled to Norway in 1975 and 1978 and have wintered in Mission, Texas. They moved back to the Adams area in November.

Cleonora was an avid needle worker, enjoying quilting and other crafts. She was a member of the American Lutheran Church in Melvin and active in the Trinity Lutheran Church in Mission, Texas.

Cleonora is survived by her husband, Kenneth S. Weness of Adams, Minnesota; sisters and brothers-in-law, Enid and Don Patterson of St. Ansgar, Mildred and Keith Westling of Osage, Marilyn and Dean Rockafellow of St. Ansgar; brother and sister-in-law, Russell and Gladys Sampson of St. Ansgar; and nieces and nephews.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press

Mercedes M. (Chisholm) Bredehoft

December 4, 2002

Mercedes M. (Chisholm) Bredehoft, 78, of West St. Paul, Minnesota and formerly of Osage, died on Saturday, November 30, 2002, at her home.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, December 3, at the St. Matthew's Catholic Church, West St. Paul, Minnesota. Burial was in the Glen Haven Memorial Gardens.

Mercedes was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gustav in 1981; two brothers, Bob Chisholm in 1992 and Jim Chisholm in 1997; and one sister, Kay (Chisholm) Sloan in 2002.

Her survivors include two daughters, Pat (Roy) Abrego of St. Paul, Minnesota and Pam Kiley of Minneapolis; one son, Paul Bredehoft of West St. Paul, Minnesota; three grandsons, Alex and Nick Abrego and Dan Kiley; three brothers, Leo (Elsie) Chisholm of Osage, Larry (Sherrie) Chisholm of White Bear Lake, Minnesota and Daniel (Cathy) Chisholm of Mason City; one sister, Joan Cole of Coon Rapids, Minnesota; one brother-in-law, Del Sloan of Coon Rapids, Minnesota; two sisters-in-law, Inga Chisholm of Glen Burnie, Maryland and Barbara Chisholm of Osage.
© 2002 Mitchell County Press