Marjorie Ione Ralph

June 11, 2003

Marjorie Ralph, died on Monday, June 2, 2003, in Denver, Colorado.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, June 5, at the Bowling Family Chapel. Celebrant was the Reverend Michael Lemke.

Marjorie was born on June 8, 1924 in Spencer, Iowa, and she lived in Osage, Iowa for 13 years. She resided in Northglenn, Colorado and her occupation was Real Estate Management.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her mother and father.

Her survivors include a sister, Marlene; her daughters, Eileen, Diana and Sandra; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and many other friends and relatives.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Vern M. Merfeld

June 11, 2003

Vern M. Merfeld, 93, of Greene, died on Tuesday, June 3, 2003, at the Liebe Care Center, Greene.

A Funeral Mass was held at the St. Mary's Catholic Church, Greene, Iowa. The Reverend Monsignor Walter Brunken officiated. Burial was in the St. Patrick's Cemetery at Dougherty. Memorials may be given to the St. Mary's Catholic Church, Greene.

Vern was born on December 12, 1909, the youngest of nine children of Matt and Mary (Brunner) Merfeld. He attended rural school at Greene and the St. Mary's Academy, Greene. Vern farmed with his father for several years in the Greene area. He married Kathryn "Katie" Ewen on February 15, 1939 at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Dougherty.

Following retirement Vern's parents made their home with Vern and Katie on their farm near Dougherty. While living in the Dougherty area Vern served as a trustee on the church board and was a member of the Holy Name Society. In 1971, retiring from farming Vern and Katie moved to Greene.

He enjoyed playing cards, fishing and watching boxing on television. Vern and Katie will be remembered by their family as very loving and generous parents and grandparents. They were strong proponents of education. As a young man Vern helped with the construction of the St. Mary's Catholic Church, Greene, where he was a member for many years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn on December 13, 1987; a son, Joseph Merfeld on May 9, 1954; seven brothers, Roy, Ed, George, Clyde, Henry, Father Howard and Harry; a sister, Laura Popes; a son-in-law, Tony Budak; and grandson-in-law, John Peterson.

Vern's survivors include seven children, Elizabeth "Betty" Staudt and husband, Donald of Mason City, Barbara Budak of LaGrange, Illinois, Alice Oswald and her husband, Richard of Annandale, New Jersey, Ann Cracco of Cedar Falls, James Merfeld and his wife, Marilyn of Clear Lake, Tom Merfeld and his wife, LeAnn of Osage and Veronica Fink and husband, James of Waverly; 20 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; a former son-in-law, Sal Cracco of Cedar Falls; sisters-in-law, Edna Merfeld of New Virginia, Hannah Jansen of Nora Springs, Helen Engels and husband, Emil of Rockford, Agnes Foxen of Rockford, Doris Ewen of Clear Lake and Lillian Ewen of Nora Springs.

The Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Elizabeth "Betty Lou" Farrell

June 25, 2003

Betty Lou Farrell, 64, died on Tuesday, June 3, 2003, at her home in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 9, at the St. James the Apostle Catholic Church in Glen Ellyn. Her brother-in-law, Rev. Emmet Farrell officiated.

Betty was born on June 23, 1938 in rural Osage. She attended school in Osage and graduated from the Osage High School in 1956. After graduating from Iowa State College, she was united in marriage to Jerald Farrell on August 13, 1960, at the Sacred Heart Church in Osage. Betty was co-author of four books related to sewing, was Vice-President of Euro-notions and Account Executive of Brewer Sewing Co.

She loved spending time with her family, especially her 15 grandchildren, traveling and sewing.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry in 1999.

Betty is survived by her six children, Lynn (Bob) Martini, Jill (Joe) Bonucci, Jay (Theresa) Farrell, Dawn (Tony) Farruggio, Tod (Roda) Farrell and Lori Farrell; two sisters, Marge Weis and Yvonne Yezek; and one brother, Gene Mayer.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Jefferey T. Crooks

July 2, 2003

Jefferey T. Crooks, 42, died on Wednesday, June 4, 2003, at his home in Jacksonville. Crooks of Jacksonville, Florida, was formerly from Rudd. 

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, July 2, 2003, at the Eden Presbyterian Church, Rudd, Iowa. Jeff’s body was cremated and his ashes were scattered over the water as a memorial for his love for the water, especially water skiing and scuba diving.

Jeff was born on March 24, 1961 in Phoenix, Arizona and graduated from the Osage High School in 1979. He enjoyed mechanical endeavors, especially working on dirt bikes and restoring his 1974 Chevy. Jeff was retired from the United States Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman First Class Petty Officer. He was currently employed with the ABC Liquor Corporation in Jacksonville, Florida.

Jeff was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Effie Retterath; and grandmother, Eva Crooks.

Jeff is survived by two daughters, Keely and Katie of Stone Mountain, Georgia; his parents, Dorothy and Alden Crooks of Rudd; brother, Robert Crooks of Lakeville, Minnesota; sisters, Cheryl Hathcock of Marshfield, Missouri, Angela Nanke of Cedar Rapids and Jennifer Crooks of Washington, Iowa; his grandfather, Robert Crooks of Charles City; and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Richard G. "Dick" Mobley

June 11, 2003

Richard G. "Dick" Mobley, age 69, of Osage, died on Thursday, June 5, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 9, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage. The Reverend Philip Recker officiated. Interment was in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery near Osage.

Dick was born on June 9, 1933 in Marshalltown, the son of Gail and Alice (Huber) Mobley. He was united in marriage to Donna Power on June 30, 1953, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Dick served the city of Osage for 37 years, 25 as police officer and 12 as Chief of Police.

He was a member of the "Midwest Organized Crime Information Center" and a life member of "Iowa Association of Chief's of Police and Peace Officers," where he served as president of the association in 1993. Dick touched many lives through his involvement in implementing the "Daisy" and "RUOK" programs in Osage and also the "North Iowa Drug Task Force." Dick was very active in the Crisis Intervention Center.

He enjoyed spending time with the senior citizens at the center in Osage. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening and visiting with his many friends and family. Dick enjoyed his annual fishing trips with his family to Brainerd, Minnesota. Dick's grandchildren were his pride and joy and "grandpa" was their biggest fan at sports events and other activities. He cherished the time he spent with his family.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Gail and Alice Mobley.

His survivors include his wife of 50 years, Donna of Osage; four children, Bruce Mobley and his wife, Donna of Mason City, Randy Mobley of Ft. Collins, Colorado, Nancy Heinz and her husband, Brian of Mason City and Kent Mobley and his wife, Judy of Osage; eight grandchildren, Isaiah, Josiah and Reniah Mobley, Chris and Jenny Mobley, Hillary Heinz and Ben and Cody Mobley; three great-grandchildren, Alexiah, Madeline and Aniah Mobley; step-mother, Berdine Mobley of Phoenix, Arizona; two sisters, Susan Tyler and her husband, Ted of Golden, Colorado and Donna Atkinson and her husband, Barry of Colorado Springs, Colorado; three brothers-in-law, Cliff Power of St. Ansgar, Ray and his wife, Carol Power of Osage and Tom and his wife, Zoe Power of Kensett; one sister-in-law, Sandy Bushbaum and husband, Dallas of Mason City; and many nieces and nephews.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Richard "Mike" A. Pell

June 11, 2003

Richard "Mike" A. Pell, age 58, of Nashua, formerly of Nora Springs, died on Saturday June 7, 2003, at his home of natural causes.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, June 11, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage. Cremation will take place following the funeral service, with inurnment in the Bohemian National Cemetery in Myrtle, Minnesota.

Richard "Mike" was born on May 7, 1945 in Union Township in Mitchell County, the son of Edward and Helen (Shupe) Pell. Richard "Mike" worked for Hawkeye Auto Body in Mason City for years. He also owned his own business where he restored antique cars. Richard "Mike" also worked for Currys in Mason City for many years until he retired. He played lead guitar and sang in "Dick's Country Masters Band."

His favorite past times were music and antique cars. He will be remembered for his special sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Helen Pell; and a special aunt and uncle, Dale and Anna Stanton.

He is survived by his special friend, Sylvia Koskie of Nashua; three daughters, Pamela Bierbrodt of Marshalltown, Shelly Pell of Mason City and Tammy Pell of Mason City; one granddaughter, Chelsea of Marshalltown; three sisters, Patricia (Chester) Williams of Eucha, Oklahoma, Ardith (Wayne) Heins of Cedar Falls and Mary Lou (Harry) Smith of Waterloo.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Phyllis I. McAlister

June 25, 2003

Phyllis I. McAlister, 69, of Austin, died on Saturday, June 7, 2003, at the Austin Medical Center, after a long battle with respiratory disease.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 11, at the Crane Community Chapel. Pastor Randy Petersen officiated. Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery.

Phyllis was born on November 27, 1933 in Osage, Iowa, to Earl and Gladys (Erbe) Tubbs. She was raised in Osage and later moved to Austin after her marriage to Herbert McAlister on August 21, 1951. He preceded her in death on June 1, 1977. To this union were born five children, William "Bill," Kim, Jack, Kris and Kathy. Phyllis was a homemaker.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband; and daughter, Kim Ellen.

Her survivors include two sons, Bill (Sandy) McAlister and Jack (Carol) McAlister of Austin; two daughters, Kris (John) Wobschall and Kathy Pike, also of Austin; 11 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; brother, Charles (Barb) Tubbs of Oelwein, Iowa; sister, Joan (Bill) Kenney of Osage; father-in-law, R. W. "Bill" McAlister of Austin; and nieces and nephews.

The Mayer Funeral Home had charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Arnold J. Helmers

June 11, 2003

Arnold J. Helmers, age 75, of Polk City and formerly of Orchard and Mason City, died on Sunday, June 8, 2003, at the Mercy Hospice in Johnston.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, June 13, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage. The Reverend Roy Ott will officiate. Interment will be in the Stillwater Cemetery near Orchard. Visitation will be from 4-8:00 p.m., on Thursday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage. The family requests no flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mercy Hospice, Johnston, Iowa.

Arnold Helmers, was born on February 29, 1928 in German Valley, Iowa, the son of John and Cora (Boeckholt) Helmers. He married Ione Mayland in August of 1948. They farmed in the Buffalo Center area until 1972 when they bought a farm near Orchard. In 1989, Arnold retired from farming and moved to Mason City. In 1999, he became a resident of the CLC Polk City Nursing Home.

He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, collecting tractors, playing bingo and making crafts.

Preceding him in death were his parents; wife, Ione in 1986; and a brother, Herman.

His survivors include three sons, Brenton (Penny) Helmers of Weimar, California, Myron (Jean) Helmers of Hillsboro and John (Laura) Helmers of Stewartville, Minnesota; two daughters, Valerie (Steve) Johnson of Polk City and Carla (William) Jordan of Elma; 13 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers, Dale Helmers of Titonka and Raymond Helmers of Riverton, Wyoming; three sisters, Arlene Stecker of Delta, Colorado, Lorraine Freidhof of Ridgeway and Leanna Radcliffe of Tomball, Texas.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Richard W. Cassidy Jr.

July 2, 2003

Richard W. Cassidy Jr., 60, of Logansport, died on Monday, June 9, 2003, in the Logansport Memorial Hospital.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 13, at the Calvary Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Douglas Mankell officiating. Burial was in the Mount Hope Cemetery.

Richard was born on March 3, 1943 in Logansport, the son of Richard W. and Norma P. Laymon Cassidy. He was married on September 13, 1969 in Iowa, to Carolyn Field who survives. His mother, Norma P. Cassidy, preceded him in death.

Others surviving are two sons, Brendon Cassidy and his fiancée, Sandra Yu of Sherman Oaks, California and Michael Cassidy and his wife, Elizabeth Washington, Pennsylvania; his father, Richard Cassidy Sr. of Logansport; one sister, Carol Link and her husband, Michael of Attica; his mother-in-law, Marie Field of San Gabriel, California and formerly of Osage; aunts and uncles, Charles and Joann Ross and Mary Cooper, all of Logansport; nieces and nephew, Melissa Beckner of Fishers, Kai Marie Field of Topeka, Kansas and Craig Beckner of Fishers; two sisters-in-law, Gerry Keeling of San Gabriel, California and Joanne Field of Topeka, Kansas; one brother-in-law, Don Field and his wife, Poca of Topeka, Kansas; and several cousins.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Darrel Rawhouser

June 18, 2003

Darrel Edward Rawhouser age 56, of Riceville, passed away at his home on Wednesday, June 11, 2003, after an extended illness.

Funeral services were held at the Riceville United Methodist Church, on Saturday, June 14. The Reverend Michael Carey officiated. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery, Riceville.

Darrel Edward Rawhouser, was born on December 6, 1946 in Muscatine, Iowa, to Harold and Betty Shontz Rawhouser. He grew up in the Columbus Junction area in Iowa and moved later to the Fort Madison area where he graduated from high school. He was united in marriage to Sue Oulman at the Congregational Church in Riceville. Darrel worked for the Ortho plant in Fort Madison until 1988 when he moved to Slidell, Louisiana, where he took a position with Chevron Corporation as an off shore oil rig operator until his retirement in 1997. Darrel enjoyed spending time with his family and going fishing.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Darci in 1999; his parents, Harold and Betty Rawhouser; one infant sister, Glenda; and a niece, Jodi Oulman.

Darrel's survivors include his wife, Sue of Riceville; three daughters, Elissa and Kendra Rawhouser, both of Riceville and Amy Rawhouser of Marion, Iowa; one son, Andrew Rawhouser of Chicago, Illinois; his parents-in-law, Ronald and Audrey Oulman of Riceville; as well as many family and friends.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Henry Alfred Schmidt

June 18, 2003

Henry Alfred Schmidt, 71, of Manly, died on Thursday, June 12, 2003, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 14, at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Manly, with Reverend Randy Nielsen officiating. Burial was in the Grafton Cemetery.

Henry Alfred Schmidt, was born on December 19, 1931, in rural Worth County near Plymouth, the son of Alfred and Tena (Wirtjes) Schmidt. He attended and received his education in the rural Grafton and Fertile Grade Schools, graduating from the Manly High School in 1950. He was united in marriage to Ruth Ann Lifka on June 4, 1957 in Grafton. After completing his schooling he began working for the Fullerton Lumber Company and Manly Produce. Henry was self employed in the trucking business and also drove a bulk milk truck for the Tri State Company in Wisconsin and for the Lake Mills Coop until his retirement. After his retirement he helped Carroll Nelson in rural Osage with his farming.

He enjoyed woodworking, fishing and camping. He was a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Manly. He also served as a Manly volunteer fireman for over 25 years and was the acting Fire Chief upon his retirement from the fire department. He also belonged to the Osage SAMs Camping Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Tena (Wirtjes) Schmidt; a brother, Dennis Schmidt; and two sisters, Dorothea Schmidt and Viola Bentzen.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Ruth Ann Schmidt of Manly; five children, Roxana Johnson and her husband, Ken of Mt. Clemons, Michigan, Randy Schmidt and friend, Judy of New Port Ritchie, Florida, Ranell Schmidt of Richfield, Minnesota, Rodney Schmidt and his wife, Judy of Richfield, Minnesota and Rex Schmidt and friend, Carol of Belleview, Nebraska; five grandchildren, Andrew, Megan and Ann Schmidt, Taren Denny and Jena McJunkins; a brother, Richard Schmidt and his wife, Helen of Osage; two sisters, Dorothy Mensch and Sharon Sanderson, both of Manly; as well as other relatives and many friends.

The Bride Colonial Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Donald Hemann

June 18, 2003

Donald Hemann, 68, of Stacyville, died on Saturday, June 14, 2003.

Funeral service were held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, June 18, at the Visitation Catholic Church, Stacyville, with Rev. Marvin Salz, Rev. John Hemann and Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Burial was in the Visitation Cemetery. Military honors will be by the Hale Penney Fuller Post #569 of the American Legion.

Donald was born on August 20, 1934 in Stacyville, Iowa, to Anton and Alvina (May) Hemann. He graduated from the Visitation High School in 1952 as the class president and also attended Loras College. He entered the armed services and served with the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957. In 1956, Donald married Roma Salz. He farmed for 35 years.

Donald was a past president of the School Board and the Stacyville Nursing Home. He was past Grand Knight of the K of C, a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and a past Farm Bureau Board Member.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Irene Small.

He is survived by his wife, Roma of Stacyville; five sons, Quentin of Stacyville, Randy (Lynne) of Rochester, Minnesota, Paul of St. Paul, Minnesota, Tim (Kari) of Newton, Iowa and Jamie of New Brighton, Connecticut; four daughters, Lori (Mike) Heimer of Stewartville, Minnesota, Lois (Dan) Stromley of Rockwell, Iowa, Lu Wilford of Coralville, Iowa and Lana (Scott) Sellner of Northfield, Minnesota; 19 grandchildren; one sister, Alice Gerk of Osage; four brothers, Harry of Osage, Vernon of Des Moines, Marvin of Stacyville and Robert of Emmetsburg, Iowa.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home of St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

John L. Rogers

June 18, 2003

John L. Rogers, age 72, of Osage, died on Saturday, June 14, 2003, at the St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 17, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage. The Rev. Roy Ott Officiated. Interment was in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Osage.

John Rogers, was born on March 17, 1931 in Osage, the son of John F. and Margaret (Laughlin) Rogers. He was a life-long truck driver and currently he had been driving for the Golden Ring Trucking out of Fergus Falls, Minnesota.

John was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Lawrence Rogers; and one sister, Dorothy Warner.

His survivors include one daughter, Laurel Richter and husband, Wayne of Batavia, Illinois and their children, Matthew, Meghan and Michael; two sons, Marc Rogers of Santa, Idaho and his children, Cassandra, Michelle and Joni and Bryan Rogers and wife, Renata of Osage and their son, Justin; two brothers, Allen Rogers and wife, Helen of St. Ansgar and Dean Rogers and wife, Charlene of Nevada, Iowa.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home,  had charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Dallas Rowe

June 18, 2003

Dallas Rowe, 86, died on Saturday, June 14, 2003, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Care Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 17, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage. Reverend Dennis Hanson and Reverend Roy Ott officiated. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery in Osage.

Dallas was born on January 30, 1917 in St. Ansgar, Iowa, the daughter of Emil and Sadie (Klein) Nack. She attended school at Mitchell. Dallas was united in marriage to Lester N. Rowe on November 17, 1936.

She was a member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage and helped with many church dinners and fund raisers for the building of the church. She was also a member of the Esther Circle. Dallas was a member of the Sunshine Club and served as chairperson, secretary and treasurer. She enjoyed baking, cooking, gardening and flowers and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dallas was preceded in death by her parents, Emil and Sadie Nack; brother, Donald "Bud" Nack; sister, Dolores Nack Sipe; sister-in-law, Rosella Nack; and a grandson, Jon David Rowe.

Her survivors include her husband, Lester N. Rowe of Osage; two sons, Jerald Rowe and his wife, Pat of Seward, Alaska and David J. Rowe and his wife, Jane of Osage; eight grandchildren, Brian Rowe, Leslie Altac, Donna Leffler, Lynn Swenson, Thyra Burke, Christopher Rowe, Mary Anna Rowe and Joseph Rowe; nine great-grandchildren; a brother, Dean Nack of Osage; a brother-in-law, Alan Rowe and his wife, Phyllis of Port Orchard, Washington; three sisters-in-law, Alice Nack and Marvel Kubicek, both of Osage and Kathleen Rowe of McGregor.

The Champion Funeral Home,  Osage, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Irma A. Theobald

June 18, 2003

Irma A. Theobald, 98, of Stacyville, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2003, at the Stacyville Community Nursing Home.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 17, at the Visitation Catholic Church, Stacyville, with Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Burial was in the Visitation Cemetery.

Irma was born on May 23, 1905 in Meyer, Iowa, to John and Gertrude (Halfman) Durben. She attended school in Meyer. Irma married Carl Theobald on February 3, 1932 at Meyer. She was a member of the Christian Mothers and received a rosary for over 75 years as a member of the Foresters. Irma loved gardening, whistling and flowers. She had a positive good sense of humor.

Irma was preceded in death by her parents; husband; two sons; three brothers; and four sisters.

She is survived by one daughter, Helen Hemann of Austin, Minnesota; three sons, Glen of Lake City, Minnesota, Kenneth of Stacyville and Roger of Elk Horn, Nebraska; 13 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home of St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Norval C. Jensen

June 18, 2003

Norval C. Jensen, age 90, of Osage, died on Sunday, June 15, 2003, at the Good Samaritan Center in St. Ansgar, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 19, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage. The Reverend Dennis Hanson and Reverend Roy Ott will officiate. Interment will be in the Osage Cemetery in Osage.

Norval was born on March 26, 1913, on the family farm near St. Ansgar, the son of Bert and Matie (Hansen) Jensen. He graduated from the St. Ansgar High School. Norval farmed on the family farm. He was well-known for the strawberries they raised. He was a crop duster and was employed as an auto mechanic at Jorde Motors in Osage. He was united in marriage to Erena Dettmann in 1941 and to this union four children were born, Russell, Marvin, Dolores and Joanne. Erena died in 1970. Norval was united in marriage to Thelma Birum in 1981. In 1986 they moved to Osage. Thelma died in 2000.

Norval was preceded in death by his parents; two wives, Erena in 1970 and Thelma in 2000; one sister, Avis Loffgreen; and one grandson, Harley Jensen.

His survivors include two sons, Russell Jensen of St. Ansgar and Marvin (Kathryn) Jensen of Penland, North Carolina; two daughters, Dolores (Gary) Petrak of Minburn, Iowa and Joanne (Edward) Kleinwort of St. Ansgar; one brother, Harlan (Naomi) Jensen of Fort Worth, Texas; 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Neal Richard Fossey

June 25, 2003

Neal Richard Fossey, 46, of St. Ansgar, Iowa, died on Sunday, June 15, 2003, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center, Osage, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 19, at the Deer Creek Lutheran Church, rural Carpenter, Iowa, with AIM Intern Irmgard Ellingson officiating. Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Mona, Iowa.

Neal was born on November 5, 1956 in Austin, Minnesota, the son of Leo and Joan (Bridgeman) Fossey. He was baptized and confirmed at the Our Savior's Lutheran church in Lyle, Minnesota. Neal grew up in rural St. Ansgar and graduated from the St. Ansgar High School in 1975 and continued his education at Iowa Lakes Community College in Emmetsburg, Iowa, studying agriculture. Neal was united in marriage to Cindy Johnson on July 11, 1981, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lyle, Minnesota, by Rev. Harold Luecke. To this loving marriage three children were born, Eric, Heidi and Benjamin. For all their married life, Neal and Cindy were members of the Deer Creek Lutheran Church, rural Carpenter, Iowa.

Neal enjoyed all aspects of sports, whether playing softball or basketball with family and friends; coaching his children's teams; or spectating in his spare time. He especially treasured the time that he spent with his wife and three children. Neal also loved taking care of his livestock and enjoyed everyday to the fullest up until the end, when he died doing what he loved, playing basketball.

Neal was preceded in death by his father, Leo Fossey; mother-in-law, Lucille Johnson; sister-in-law, Kathy Johnson; maternal grandparents and paternal grandparents.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Cindy; children, Eric of Carpenter, Heidi of Carpenter and Ben at home; mother, Joan Fossey of St. Ansgar; brothers, Gary and his wife, Barb and son, Bryan of St. Ansgar; Joel and his wife, Connie and children, Luke and Colby of St. Ansgar; sisters, Lori Hatten and her husband, Jim and children, Michael, Melissa and Amy of Jackson, Minnesota; Lana Blaser and her husband, Jim and children, Brent, Katie, and Jayme of Stacyville, Iowa; father-in-law, Tiny Johnson and special friend, Judy Olson of Carpenter, Iowa; brothers-in-law, Tim Johnson and his wife, Renae and children, Kayla, Kally, Nicole and Landon of Carpenter; Joe Johnson and his wife, Teresa and children, Adam, Emily and Dylan of St. Ansgar; sisters-in-law, Robin Bauers and her husband, Spike and children, Zane and Darby of Northwood, Iowa; and Christy Scott and her husband, Dean and children, Cody, Haley, and Shelby of St. Ansgar; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Rose A. Meyerhofer

June 25, 2003

Rose A. Meyerhofer, age 80, of Osage, died on Tuesday, June 17, 2003, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center Emergency Room in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 21, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage, with Rev. Philip Recker officiating. After the services cremation will take place and inurnment will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Osage.

Rose was born on January 21, 1923 in Walters, Minnesota, the daughter of Joseph and Katherine (Fischer) Schmidt. She was united in marriage to Clemence "Clem" Meyerhofer on April 9, 1947 at the St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rose Creek, Minnesota. They farmed in the Stacyville area until their retirement in 1981 when they moved to Osage. Clem died on August 15, 1998.

She was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and active in the church choir and various church activities. Rose was an avid card player (Bridge & Canasta). She was also an avid baker who enjoyed sharing her baked goods. Her greatest joys were her family, faith and friends. She will be missed by all those who she blessed with her love and joy for life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Clemence "Clem" Meyerhofer in 1998; four brothers, Carl, George, Joe and Tony Schmidt; a sister, Marie Theissen; and a son-in-law, James Young.

She is survived by four daughters, Sister Nancy Meyerhofer of San Diego, California, Arlene (Lowell) Erickson of Kenyon, Minnesota, Bea Young of Altadena, California and Peggy Meyerhofer of Kenyon, Minnesota; four sons, Nick (Cheri) Meyerhofer of Flagstaff, Arizona, Roger (Wanda) Meyerhofer of Owatonna, Minnesota, Ben Meyerhofer of Britt and Andy (Liz) Meyerhofer of Osage; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; four sisters, Theresa (John) Heimerman of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, Catherine Jenkins of Grapeview, Washington, Alice Bulson of Faribault, Minnesota and Dorothy (Ron) Swehla of Prescott, Arizona; and one brother, Ben (Mary) Schmidt of Owatonna, Minnesota.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Jennifer L. Vance

June 25, 2003

Jennifer Vance, age 27, of Clear Lake, formerly of Osage and Sac City, died suddenly on Wednesday, June 18, 2003, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 23, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, with Gary Gilbert officiating. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery in Osage.

Jennifer was born on May 31, 1976 in Osage, the daughter of John and Merry Vance. She attended the Osage Schools and graduated in 1995 from the Sac Community Schools in Sac City. After high school, Jennifer moved to Clear Lake. While in Clear Lake she was involved in various activities at Opportunity Village and also worked part-time at Subway. Jennifer enjoyed family and friends, music, reading and taking naps.

Preceding Jennifer in death were her brother, Richard Vance; maternal grandfather, Warren Isenberger; paternal grandfather, Joseph Vance; and an aunt, Georgia Isenberger Kerch.

Her survivors include her mother, Merry Vance of Sac City; father, John Vance of Osage; a sister, Rebecca (John) Morenz of Red Oak, Iowa; paternal grandmother, Dorothy Vance of Osage; maternal grandmother, Iola Isenberger of Osage; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Donald W. Hinrichsen

June 25, 2003

Donald W. Hinrichsen, 78, of Rock Falls, died on Thursday, June 19, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, at the Rock Falls Old Stone United Methodist Church. Reverend Lisa Locoh and the Reverend Terra Amundson officiated. Interment was in the Rock Falls Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Rock Falls United Methodist Church, KCMR Radio or the Hospice of North Iowa.

Don was born on May 31, 1925 on a farm two miles east of Rock Falls, the son of Martin and Margaret Hinrichsen. He graduated from the Rock Falls High School in 1941. Following high school Don farmed with his brother, Earl and with his parents. On February 24, 1952, he was married to Elizabeth "Liz" Goll at the United Church of Christ in Klemme. Into this marriage were born three children, Jay Allen, Sandra Kay and Dee Ann. For the first five years of their marriage Don and Liz farmed the Hinrichsen farm southwest of Nora Springs. In 1956, they purchased a building in Rock Falls and opened Don's Farm Store. Don and Liz were partners in life and work operating the farm store for 30 years.

Don served his community as Mayor of Rock Falls for 16 years and was a member of the Rock Falls Old Stone United Methodist Church. In 1976 Don and Liz lost their son, Jay in a car accident. Following Jay's death Don and Liz raised Jay's son, Kurt. In 1985, Don and Liz sold the farm store. In retirement Don enjoyed participating in his children's and grandchildren's activities attending numerous baseball, softball, volleyball and soccer games.

Don and Liz loved to travel and took their entire family on many memorable vacations. The entire family has many special memories of their annual fishing trips to Leech Lake, Minnesota. Don enjoyed socializing with their many friends, playing cards and games and spending winters in their home in Alamo, Texas, where they made a whole new set of friends. He was a dedicated father, grandfather and volunteer at KCMR Radio. He had a love for practical jokes, life, his family, friends, church, community and a knack for making people laugh.

Don was preceded in death by his son, Jay; parents; and brother, Earl.

His survivors include his wife, Liz of Rock Falls; two daughters and sons-in-law, Sandra and Tony Wyborny of Fishers, Indiana and Dee and Roger Pearce of Mason City; grandson, Kurt Hinrichsen and his wife, Michelle of Washington, Iowa; grandchildren, Tonya Wyborny of Cedar Falls, Troy Wyborny of Fishers, Indiana, Angela and Ashley Pearce of Mason City; great-grandchildren, Madysen and Kolten Hinrichsen of Washington, Iowa; sister and brother-in-law, Helen and George Reynolds of Mason City; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Louise Hinrichsen of Osage; two sisters-in-law, Betty Hinrichsen of Nora Springs and Emma Johnson of Garner; and many nephews and nieces.

The Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory had charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Margaret L. Hemann

July 2, 2003

Margaret L. Hemann, age 71, died on Monday, June 23, 2003, at the Keokuk Area Hospital.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 26, at the All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk, Iowa. Reverend Paul Connolly officiated. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk. Memorials may be sent to the Keokuk Catholic Schools or to the Southeast Iowa Dialysis Center.

Margaret was born on September 10, 1931 at Washington DC, the daughter of Percy and Julia Burke Murray. She married DeVere Hemann on June 30, 1962 at Washington DC. Margaret was a member of the All Saints Catholic Church of Keokuk and belonged to the Keokuk BPW.

Margaret loved her family very much. She enjoyed spending time with her friends, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In her lifetime she worked at Acacia Life Insurance in Washington DC, Dadant & Sons and My Favorite Pizza in Illinois. Her final job was Assistant Site Manager at the Osage Senior Citizens Center in Osage, Iowa.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Mary Hemann; and one sister, Mary Counsel.

Her survivors include her husband, DeVere Hemann of Keokuk; four daughters, Mrs. Kathy (Lowell) Wigant of Osage, Mrs. Cindy (Jerry) Shank of Fairmont, Minnesota, Mrs. Theresa (Paul) Sestito of Keokuk and Mrs. Peggy (Charles) Brooke of Hagerstown, Maryland; two sons, Steve (Theresa) Hemann of Montrose, Iowa and Robert (Dana) Hemann of Keokuk, Iowa; one sister, Jean Moore of Silversprings, Maryland; 16 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

The Greaves Mortuary, Keokuk, Iowa, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Jack M. Conklin

July 2, 2003

Jack Matthews Conklin, age 84, died on Thursday, June 26, 2003, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 30, at the United Church of Christ in Osage. Reverend Robert Melhorn officiated. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery, with Military Rites by the Osage American Legion Post 278.

Jack Matthews Conklin, was born on October 11, 1918 in Clear Lake, the son of Harry and Helen (Matthews) Conklin. The family moved to Osage in 1927, when Harry became assistant county engineer for Mitchell County. Jack graduated from the Osage High School in 1936. After graduation he completed graduate studies in commercial art and was a vocal soloist for WHO radio and played string bass in the Conky Conklin and His Commodores dance band. Jack was married to Ruth Cordes on September 22, 1940 in Osage. He then served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as the crew chief of a B-25 bomber.

After receiving his discharge, he operated the Conklin Stamp Company, managed the Green Parrot Restaurant in Decorah for a brief period, was a Division Manager for the Motor Club of Iowa, and in 1960 started selling Conklin chemical products with his father. In 1969 Jack, with his brother, Bob, founded the Conklin Company, Inc. in Burnsville, Minnesota, which is now located in Shakopee, Minnesota. Jack was Conklin's Senior Vice President and the creator of the Harry Conklin Museum. He retired in 1992. In 2002, Jack gifted the Harry Conklin Museum to the Mitchell County Historical Society.

Preceding Jack in death were his parents; wife, Ruth on October 2, 2001; and a brother, Robert.

His survivors include one daughter, Ellen Elsbury of Osage; one granddaughter, Mrs. Tanya (David) Womeldorf of Lakeville, Minnesota; one sister, Mrs. Ann (Sam) Erickson of Brick, New Jersey; and one aunt, Mrs. Jean Knutson of Clear Lake, Iowa.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Rose Catherine Halbach

July 2, 2003

Rose Catherine Halbach, age 81, died on Thursday, June 26, 2003, at her home in Cedar Falls.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, June 28, at the St. Stephen Catholic Student Center, Cedar Falls, Iowa. Father Mel Hemann was officiant and interment was in the Fairview Cemetery, Cedar Falls, Iowa. A Flag Presentation was by the American Legion Post #237, Cedar Falls. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Cedar Valley Hospice, St. Patrick Catholic Church or Western Home Communities.

Rose was born on February 12, 1922 in Osage, Iowa, the daughter of Clement and Ruth Agnes (Byrnes) Comisky. She received her BSN Degree from the Mt. Mercy College, School of Nursing and went on to serve her country in the United States Navy during World War II. She was united in marriage to John F. Halbach in Osage on August 21, 1945. Rose was employed as a registered nurse at the Osage Community Hospital, then Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo and finally at the Cedar Falls Lutheran Home. She was a member of the American Red Cross disaster team.

Rose's parents preceded her in death.

Her survivor's include her husband, John of Cedar Falls; three sons, Thomas (Sally) Halbach of Boise, Idaho, Gerald (Patrice) Halbach of North Oaks, Minnesota and Michael Halbach of Burnsville, Minnesota; three daughters, Anne (John) Hanson of Iowa City, Jane (Richard) Westly of Madison, Wisconsin and Patricia (Harold) Moore of Cedar Rapids; 13 grandchildren; and a sister, Marcella (Carl) Obermeier of Osseo, Minnesota.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Selma A. Perkins

July 2, 2003

Selma A. Perkins, 95, of St. Ansgar, died on Saturday, June 28, 2003, at the Good Samaritan Center, St. Ansgar.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 2, at 2:00 p.m., at the Deer Creek Lutheran Church, Carpenter, Iowa, with Rev. Wayne Ellingson officiating. Burial will be in the Deer Creek Cemetery, Carpenter.

Selma was born on April 4, 1908 in Deer Creek Township, Worth County, Iowa, the daughter of John and Maria (Gordon) Johnson. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith at the Deer Creek Lutheran Church, Carpenter, where she was a life long member. Selma attended rural school in Worth County and graduated from the Otranto High School, Otranto, Iowa in 1926. On August 13, 1927, she married Randall Perkins of Lyle, Minnesota. They made their home in the Lyle area for 58 years. Following Randall's death in December of 1985, Selma moved to the Worth Living Center in St. Ansgar. After failing health and vision she became a resident at the Good Samaritan Center.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Randall; an infant son, Allan Eugene Perkins; brothers, Lloyd Johnson and his wife, Minnie and Arthur Johnson; sister-in-law, Viola Johnson; an infant sister, Alice Johnson; and son-in-law, Keith Funk of Osage.

Selma is survived by a daughter, Helen Marie Funk of Osage; a son, John (Ludmilla) Perkins of Cresco; six granddaughters; 11 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; 4 step-grandchildren; 12 step-great-grandchildren; a brother, Maynard Johnson of Northwood; sister-in-law, Mary (Arthur) Johnson of Northwood; and many nieces and nephews.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press

Orville Glen Schofield

July 2, 2003

Orville Schofield, age 93, of rural Riceville, died on Saturday, June 28, 2003, at the Stacyville Community Nursing Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, July 2, at the McIntire Methodist Church, in McIntire, Iowa. Reverend Michael Carey will be the officiant and burial will be in the Wayne Cemetery in rural McIntire.

Orville was born at Rabbit Ridge, Missouri, on December 11, 1909, to Ernest Marian and Lyda Mae Roush Schofield. He attended local schools. Orville was united in marriage to Connie Joyce Kristiansen on May 19, 1950, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Orville farmed his entire life retiring at the age of 88.

Preceding Orville in death were his parents; his wife, Connie in 1997; and two sisters.

His survivors include a daughter, Sharon and her husband, Keith Johnson of Goodell, Iowa; a son, Ernest and his wife, Karen Schofield of rural Riceville; three grandchildren, Michelle Ann and her husband, Ned Burmeister, Darrin and his wife, Kim Johnson and Kristian Schofield; two great-grandchildren, Natasha and Jake Johnson; and a brother, Denver and his wife, Lela Schofield of Rockwell, Iowa.
© 2003 Mitchell County Press