Jim Sullivan

August 2, 2011

James Ervin Sullivan, age 59, of Osage, died on Monday, August 1, 2011, at his home in Osage, of renal cancer, under the loving care of his family and the Hospice of North Iowa.

A Celebration of Jim's Life will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, August 6, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage, with Father Jack McClure, CPPS officiating. Burial will be in the St. Peter's Cemetery in New Haven. The family will greet friends from 5-7:30 p.m., on Friday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, with a Knights of Columbus rosary at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of North Iowa.

Jim was born on July 2, 1952 in Osage, Iowa, the son of Keith and Marilyn (Groth) Sullivan. He served in the National Guard from 1971 to 1977 while farming with his dad on the family farm. Jim loved all sports, especially boating, bowling, baseball, and snowmobiling. He also played amateur baseball with the North Stars when Al Christiansen was manager and coach. After Jim sustained a head injured in 1977, he continued living at home, going daily to the library and Senior Citizens in his wheel chair. He traveled with his parents to southern Texas every winter for the last 12 years.

Jim is survived by his parents, Keith and Marilyn Sullivan of Osage; three sisters, Linda (Al) Marquesen of Albia, Kathy (Larry) Vaira of Lambert, Montana and Mary (Michael) Irigoin of Brockton, Montana; six brothers, Joe (Deb) of Olympia, Washington, Bill of Ames, Dan (Diane) of Osage, Mike (Lisa) of Kasson, Minnesota, Tom (Donna) of Osage and Ed of Charles City; 14 nieces and 11 nephews; and his many friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harold and Marie Sullivan and Ervin and Esther Groth.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Irene Gauger

August 9, 2011

Irene Gauger, age 85, of Osage, died on Monday, August 8, 2011, at the Good Samaritan Society in St. Ansgar. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, August 12, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, with Pastor Sam Mack officiating. Burial will be at 1:00 p.m., on Friday, in the Riverside Cemetery in Charles City. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m., on Thursday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home.

Irene Gauger, was born on March 29, 1926, in Floyd County near Charles City, the daughter of Walter and Josephine (Gregory) Goddard. She attended rural schools and schools at Fredricka and Charles City and graduated from the Floyd High School in 1945. Irene married Harlan Gauger on March 12, 1950 at Charles City. They lived in Mason City and Lake Mills, moving to Osage in 1954.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Osage, where she was co-chairperson and treasurer of her church circle several times, served on the flower committee and was treasurer of the United Methodist Women for four years. Irene and Harlan for many years gave devotions each Sunday morning at the Mitchell County Care Facility and at the former Maple Manor Nursing Home. She served as a leader of Brownies, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Irene was a member of the Federated Women's Club of Osage and served as its chairperson. She was also a member of the A.R.C. and of the Naturalist Club and served as treasurer for both organizations. Irene was an avid bird and squirrel watcher and enjoyed fishing trips with her husband and family.

Irene is survived by two daughters, Nancy Chitwood of St. Ansgar, Kathy (James) Squier of St. Ansgar and children, Jamie (fiancé, Kyle Adams) and Jason (wife, Rachel); two sons, Harlan, Jr. "Gene" (Lee) Gauger of Jamestown, North Carolina and daughter, Jennifer (Joel) Turner, Gary (Theresa) Gauger of Omaha, Nebraska and daughters, Jessica and Emily; a daughter-in-law, Kathleen Gauger of Forest City and daughter, Amy; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Pat (Melvin) Decklever of Cheyenne, Wyoming; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harlan Gauger in 1997; her son, Mark Gauger in 2011; a sister, Phoebe Lacour; and a son-in-law, Weyman Chitwood.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Dr. H James Nickerson

August 16, 2011

Dr. H James Nickerson, passed away in Marshfield, Wisconsin, on Wednesday, August 10, 2011, at the age of 73 years.

A celebration of his remarkable life will take place with a visitation at the Rembs Funeral Home, Marshfield, from 4-7:0 p.m., on Thursday, August 18 and at 12:00 p.m., on August 19 at the church. His memorial service will be held at the Christ Lutheran Church, at 1:00 p.m., on Friday, August 19, with Rev. Mark A. Krueger officiating. Memorial contributions may be given to the Children's Miracle Network, House of the Dove in Marshfield, Christ Lutheran Church, or a charity or organization of your choice.

He was born on December 7, 1937 in St. Ansgar, Iowa, the fourth of five children. He was raised on a farm in Iowa and began his education at a country school in Mitchell County, before attending the community public school in his hometown of St. Ansgar. After graduating from high school in 1956, Dr. Nickerson enrolled at Iowa State University with the intention of studying civil engineering. He soon discovered that his real professional aspiration was to be a physician and changed his major to pre-medicine. While at Iowa State, he was a member of Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity. In 1959, Dr. Nickerson began medical school at the University of Iowa, where he was a member of the Phi Beta Pi medical fraternity.

In 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Gretta Ellen Mueller. During medical school, he received an officer's commission to the United States Navy and after graduating in 1963, moved to Philadelphia where he completed his pediatric residency at the Naval Hospital and Children's Hospital. In 1966, Dr. Nickerson was assigned by the Navy to the military hospital at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. While stationed at Camp Lejeune, he successfully passed the Board Certification examination in Pediatrics. In 1969, he was honorably discharged from the Navy and moved with his young family to Clinton, Iowa, where he began a private practice in Pediatrics. In 1970, he moved to Marshfield to continue his Pediatric practice at the Marshfield Clinic. Dr. Nickerson was dedicated and steadfast in providing medical care to children, his professional passion, until his retirement in 2002. During his career, he received Board Certification in Hematology and Oncology and was a clinical researcher, publishing numerous papers on Hematology, Oncology and Pediatrics, including ground breaking research on the effects of iron deficiency in female adolescent athletes.

Dr. Nickerson belonged to several professional organizations including the Children's Oncology Group of the Upper Midwest, the International Society of Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Nickerson loved his family and friends and will always be remembered as a gentle, humble humanitarian, a man of few words. He was a member of the Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield and enjoyed singing in the church choir.

He is survived by his wife, Gretta; son, Bill Nickerson of Longmont, Colorado; daughters, Martha (Gary) Cousino of Mackinac Island, Michigan, Jennifer (David) Youngberg of Rochester, Minnesota and Katie (David) Carson of Camas, Washington; five grandchildren, Nicole, Madeline and Julia Youngberg and Emily and Andrew Carson; and three step-grandchildren, Kipp, Gordie and Riann Cousino; two brothers, Verle (Evelyn) Nickerson of St. Ansgar and Gene (Nedra) Nickerson of Paridise Valley, Arizona; and two sisters, Joanne Borchardt of Holland, Iowa and Mary Loomer of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

His parents, Harold and Rose Nickerson preceded him in death.

The Rembs Funeral Home of Marshfield, Wisconsin, was in charge of the arrangements. www.rembsfh.com

Laura Kuntz

August 18, 2011

Laura Augusta Eske Kuntz, age 92, of Grafton, died on Wednesday, August 17, 2011, at the Lutheran Retirement Home in Northwood.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, August 20, at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Grafton, with Rev. Ronald Bolinger officiating. Burial will be in the Grafton Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6-7:30 p.m., on Friday, at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Grafton and will continue one hour before the services at the church on Saturday.

Laura was born on May 9, 1919, to Wilhelm and Augusta (Wilde) Eske in rural Mitchell County, Iowa. She was baptized on June 1, 1919, at the St. John's Lutheran Church near Grafton and was confirmed there on March 25, 1934. She attended rural school in Rock Township, southwest of St. Ansgar. Laura married Vernon Kuntz on December 25, 1943, at the St. John's Lutheran Church. They began their married life on a farm northwest of Grafton. They later moved to an acreage one mile west of Grafton. To this union were born two sons, Rodney and Corrie. Vernon and Laura farmed 37 years in the Grafton area until they retired in 1980.

They spent many winters down in Florida and went fishing in Minnesota in the summer. They attended the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Grafton. After Vern passed away in 1988, Laura moved to the Kuntz family farm northeast of Grafton, where she lived until her health declined. In July of 2008, she became a resident of the Lutheran Retirement home in Northwood. Laura was a dedicated farm wife and mother. She was ‘born to cook' and was known for her great meals. She spent a lot of time with her grandchildren and loved their company.

Laura is survived by her sons, Rodney (Emily) of St. Ansgar and Corrie (Kimberly) of Grafton; seven grandchildren, Stacy (Dameian) Schwarte of Ankeny, Ramon (Sara) Kuntz of Osage, Brandy Lueders of Des Moines, Sally (Bryce) Mayer of St. Ansgar, Cody (Jennifer) Kuntz of Cedar Rapids, Annie (Scott) Michels of Bondurant and Sadie (Clint) Dee of Ankeny; and nine great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Harriet Kuntz of Mason City, Lois (Clair) Westendorf of Des Moines and Marcella Kuntz of Mason City; brother-in-law, Eugene (Arliene) Kuntz of St. Ansgar; any many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Vernon; a brother, Roland Eske and wife, Margaret; sisters-in-law, Ruth Krueger and husband, Albin, Ella Priem and husband, Glenn, Pearl Rosenberg and husband, Elmer, Ethel Walk and husband, Clarence; and brothers-in-law, Earl Kuntz and wife, Alice and Kermit Kuntz.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.

Oral Keith "Bud" Leraaen

August 23, 2011

Oral Keith "Bud" Leraaen, 82, of St. Ansgar, died on Thursday, August 18, 2011, in Rochester, Minnesota.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 24, at 1:30 p.m., at the First Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar, with Rev. Robert Porisch officiating. Burial will be in the First Lutheran Cemetery. Military Honors will be by the Walter T. Enneberg Post # 358 of the American Legion. Bud was also a member of the VFW in Osage. Visitation will be on Tuesday, from 5-8:00 p.m., at the Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar.

Bud was born on May 12, 1929 in Newburg Township, Mitchell County, Iowa, to Gustav and Sena (Knutsen) Leraaen. He was baptized on July 7, 1929 and confirmed on April 18, 1943 both at the First Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar. Bud married Beverly Jean Bachman on May 15, 1955. Bev died on May 13, 2001. He married Barbara Rosenberg November 16, 2002. Bud was a carpenter in the St. Ansgar area until moving to Boone, Iowa in 1984. He then was a building inspector in Urbandale, Iowa from 1984 to 1997, when he moved back to St. Ansgar.

Bud enjoyed fishing, especially his fish trips to Northern Minnesota & Canada with family & friends. He was an avid bowler, loved to do carpentry work and took special pride in spending time with his grand and great-grandchildren and of course socializing with his friends. Bud was extremely proud of his 58 years as a Legionnaire (included time as Post Commander & Sergeant of Arms) and his 18 years with the Fire Department, where he spend 7 years as Fire Chief. Bud was a total patriot and Veteran, having served in the Army, with most of his service in Korea.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Beverly; son, Steven; step-son, Raymond Rosenberg, Jr.; step-daughter, Debra Rosenberg White; and brother-in-law, Bruce Bachman.

Bud is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons, Scott (Denise) Leraaen and Eric (Lynn) Leraaen; daughter, Nancy Johnson; step-sons, Randy Rosenberg and Rick Rosenberg; step-daughters, Terri (Gary) Johnson, Karen (Charles) Kittleson, Sharon (Mark) Krebsbach and Rebecca (Rusty) Horak; one brother, Galen (Janice) Leraaen; one sister, Bonnie (Bill) Petznick; one sister-in-law, Sue Ellen Young; 6 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; 22 step-grandchildren; and 36 step great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.  

Family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation to a memorial of your choice would be appreciated.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.

Norman Christiansen

August 23, 2011

Norman C. Christiansen, age 93, of Osage, died on Sunday, August 21, 2011, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, August 24, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Inurnment will be in the Osage Cemetery, with military honors at the grave by the U.S. Marine Corps, Osage American Legion Post 278 and Osage V.F.W. Post 7920. There will be a time for refreshments and fellowship following the services at the church. 

Norm was born on December 14, 1917, to Charles and Linda (Tessman) Christiansen in Osage, Iowa. After graduating from the Osage High School, Norm and his brother, Dave, were employed at McCoy Ice Cream Company in Osage. Norm enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps on May 19, 1942. Prior to being sent overseas, Norm and Dolores Intorf were married on November 14, 1942 in San Diego, California. Norm was sent overseas in January of 1943 for two years. He served with the Regimental Weapons Company, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, in the Pacific War. Norm served on Guadalcanal, Bouganville, the Solomon Islands, and the Liberation of Guam, Marianas Islands. He was discharged on October 15, 1945. Norm returned to his job with his brother, Dave, at McCoy Ice Cream Company. In 1958, Norm and Dolores purchased the Sugar Creek Drive-In, which they operated until 1971. In June 1971, they moved to Sedona, Arizona, where Norm worked for Sedona Liquors and Mile High Distributors. He retired in 1982 and assisted Dolores in her business that she founded, Creative Clothing. They returned to Osage in March of 2001.

Norm was a lifetime member of the 3rd Marine Division Association and the Marine Corps League. He was also a member of the American Legion and the V.F.W. Norm enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and dancing. 

Norm is survived by his wife of 68 years, Dolores Christiansen of Osage; three daughters, Jeanne (Willi) Resler of St. Paul, Minnesota, Janet Murdock of Gilbert and Marcia (Jack) McKee of Floyd; two granddaughters, Anne (Collin) Wittnebel of Greenfield, Minnesota and Elizabeth (Dale) Hittle of Story City;  and three great-granddaughters, Grace Hittle, Lauryn Wittnebel and Evelyn Wittnebel; and a niece, Cara Witkowski of Rockford, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Robert Christiansen and Dave Christiansen.

Gertrude "Gertie" E. Kroneman

August 23, 2011

Gertrude "Gertie" E. Kroneman, 89, formerly of Charles City, died on Monday morning, August 22, 2011, at the 9th ST. Chautauqua Guest Home. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, August 25, at the St. John's Episcopal Lutheran Church, Charles City. Officiating will be the Rev's Dennis Niezwaag and David Werges. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment will be in the First Lutheran Cemetery, St. Ansgar, at 12:45 p.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the St. John's Lutheran Church. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com or Facebook.com/Fullertonfuneralhome

Gertrude Edna was the oldest child born to Carl and Esther "Tesch" Nack on September 13, 1921 on the family farm in Rock Township in Mitchell County. There she attended school. During her younger years she would rather be outdoors helping her father around the farm than be inside. Prior to her marriage she worked for several families in Osage. On December 9, 1945, she was united in her home church Immanuel Lutheran Church, in Grafton where she was baptized and confirmed.

Gertie was active with the YMCA and Senior Citizens and especially with her church where she belonged to the Ruth Circle, spent many years in attendance and working on the newsletter. Having a very loving heart she also delivered Sunday flowers after services to the infirmed and homebound members. She and her husband for several years donated the huge church Christmas trees for decoration. She enjoyed traveling and one of her favorite trips was to the holy land, taking bus trips and going to California in the winter. Gertie had a mind of her own and made all of her own major life decisions. She was independent and strong in her faith to do the right things for others and herself. Even though she and her husband never had children they always thought well and cherished family including all her nieces and nephews and greats. Many Sunday's they would attend dinner at her house where she went all out making everyone feel comfortable.

Surviving Gertie are her sister, Marjorie Schroeder of Osage; brother, Gene (Rose Marie) Nack of Grafton; and many nieces and nephews.

Her husband on May 4, 1983, parents, and two sisters, Alpha Walling and Ruth Beneke preceded her in death.

The Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Charles City, was in charge of the arrangements.

Mervin "Bob" D. Muller

August 23, 2011

Mervin "Bob" D. Muller 89, of Nora Springs, died on Monday, August 22, 2011, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

It was Mervin's request that his body be donated to the University of Iowa Anatomical Program. A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m., on Monday, August 29, at the Rudd Methodist Church, Rudd, with Pastor Jerry Avise-Rouse officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church, with military honors conducted by the American Legion H. D. S. Post 449. Should friends desire, memorials may be directed to the Mervin "Bob" Muller Memorial.

Mervin D. Muller, was born on May 30, 1922 in Hubbard County, Minnesota, the son of Otto and Nora (Dobler) Muller. After the 8th grade Bob moved to Iowa to help his family farm in Floyd County. He attended Rockford and Rudd Schools while working on the farm. On June 21, 1941, he was united in marriage to Irene Roberts and to this union two daughters were born, Kay and Dianne.

Bob joined the Merchant Marines in 1943, taking steam engine schooling in Sheepshead Bay, New York for four months. He sailed on Merchant ships as an engineer during the European Theatre until being honorably discharged. Bob returned home to farm where he also worked at Kollman Quarry and helped his father-in-law shell corn. Later Bob took the business over and began M.D. Muller Trucking and Shelling. After retirement in 1984, Bob enjoyed doing backhoe work. After dating for 13 years, Bob was united in marriage to Phyllis Roberts on February 2, 1998. They resided on the Robert's farm in Rudd until moving to Nora Springs in 1994.

Bob enjoyed tractors and antique farm equipment shows, playing cards and fishing. In the winter, Bob loved heading south! He was a member of the Rudd United Methodist Church.

Bob is survived by his wife, Phyllis Muller of Nora Springs; step-children, Keith Roberts and Karen (Dale) Herren; four step-grandchildren; 5 step-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Delores Muller of Rockford, Donna Folmer of Osage, Joan (Duane) Polsdofer of Rockwell and Barbara DeVary of Mason City; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Irene; daughters, Kay and Dianne; three brothers, Ralph, Forrest and Lawrence Muller; two sisters, Evelyn Hilsman and Bernice DeVries; step-children, Daryl Roberts and Jerry Roberts. 

The Sheckler Colonial Chapel of Nora Springs, Iowa, was in charge of the arrangements. www.colonialchapels.com

Angela Ginder

August 25, 2011

Angela M. (Mayer) Ginder, age 89, of Stacyville, died on Wednesday, August 24, 2011, at the Stacyville Community Nursing Home. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, August 27, at the Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville, with Father Jack McClure, CPPS officiating. Burial will be in the Visitation Catholic Cemetery. Friends may greet the family from 4-7:00 p.m., on Friday, at the Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville, with a rosary at 4:30 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour before the services at the church on Saturday. Memorials should be directed to The Family of Angela Ginder. 

Angela was born in Stacyville on April 10, 1922, the daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Adams) Mauer. She attended the Visitation School in Stacyville through eighth grade. She then stayed home to help care for her 10 younger brothers until her marriage to Ralph Mayer on June 3, 1941. Ralph and Angie were blessed with six children and enjoyed 31 years of marriage. Ralph died suddenly on November 7, 1972. Angela continued to raise her three children still at home. She returned to school to complete her education. Her family celebrated with her when she received her GED on February 27, 1974. She also provided in-home day care, worked at the Stacyville doctors' office and eventually managed the bar at the Stacyville American Legion Hall. When customers at the Legion Hall were scarce, Angie filled in as a fourth player for a mean game of 500 or Euchre. She also took on some of the regulars in a game of cribbage, but found her match in a dapper gentleman named Richard Ginder. After both Angie and Richard retired, they married on September 17, 1986. They resided in their new home in Stacyville until moving to the Stacyville Community Nursing Home in 2009.

Besides playing cards, Angela enjoyed cooking and baking for family and friends. She created many fine pieces of work through her quilting and crocheting. She was an excellent seamstress, enjoyed gardening, making crafts and collecting dolls. Angela was a life-long member of the Visitation Catholic Church. She also belonged to the Catholic Order of Foresters, the American Legion Auxiliary and Christian Women's Association. She served as president for both the Auxiliary and Christian Women's Association. Angie served as church circle leader and Den Mother for a local Cub Scout troop.

Angela was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Ralph in 1972 and Richard in 2010; son-in-law, John Welch; step-daughter, Jo Ann Rice; grandson, Aaron Brown; step-great-granddaughter, Mallory Newton; and four brothers, Othmar, Roman, Arthur and Orville Mauer.

Family members who will continue to celebrate and cherish her life are her children, Tom (Beverly) Mayer of St. Ansgar, DeeLyn Mayer of Waterloo, Joyce Welch of New Hampton, Tony (Lori) Mayer of St. Ansgar, Barb Fossey of St. Ansgar and Mary (Paul) Brown of Auburn, Alabama; step-daughters, Rose Ann (Steve) McCarthy of McIntire and Gladys (David) Kasel of LeRoy, Minnesota; grandchildren, Heather (Paul) Nielsen, Ryan (Laura) Mayer, John (Jalisa) Mayer, Kathy (Chris) Weber, TJ (Erica) Mayer, Bryan Fossey, Elizabeth Brown, Bridget Brown, Rachel (Kyle) Ross, Maria Brown, and Simon Brown; great-grandchildren, Jordan, Brady, and Cassie Nielsen, Jillian and Melanie Mayer, Jaeda and Jarett Mayer, and Connor Weber; and several step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are her brothers, Dale (Theresa) Mauer of Stacyville, Dean (Jeannie) Mauer of Riceville, Darwin (Marlene) Mauer of Denver, Danny (Dorothy) Mauer of Agency, Howdy (Judy) Mauer of Waterloo, Bill (Darla) Mauer of Charles City; and sister-in-law, Mary Lou Mauer of Waterloo.

Angela touched the hearts of many during her 89 years on this earth. Her witty sense of humor brought smiles to the faces of those she encountered. She will be greatly missed.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

James "Jim" Leslie Midlang

August 30, 2011

James "Jim" Leslie Midlang, age 64, of Kearney, Nebraska and formerly of Osage, passed away on Friday, August 26, 2011.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, September 1, at the Evangelical Free Church, Kearney.

James was born on December 25, 1946, the son of Leslie and Mildred Midlang.

Jim is survived by his son, Anthony (DeeAnn) Midlang and their daughters, Tatum and Sydney, all of Osage; his father, Leslie Midlang of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota; his sister, Joanne (Bruce) Dahlberg of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota; his niece, Chris Orluskie of Lake Park, Minnesota; his nephew, Erick Griffin of Ceylon, Minnesota; several great-nieces and nephews and many friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Midlang.

Mary Anne Kluender

September 6, 2011

Mary Anne (Copp) Kluender, age 74, of rural Osage, died on Sunday, September 4, 2011, at her home. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, September 8, at the St. John's Lutheran Church, south of Osage, with Pastor Byron Northwick and Pastor Dave Byrd, Iowa Hospice Chaplain, officiating. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery at Rockford, Iowa. Visitation is from 5-8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.

Mary Anne was born on September 28, 1936 in London, Minnesota, the daughter of William and Agnes (Pell) Copp. She graduated from the Lyle High School in 1954. Mary Anne married Gary Kluender, Sr. on July 22, 1978 in Reno, Nevada. They owned and operated the Orchard Tavern.

Mary Anne enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, taking care of loved ones, helping on the farm and loved meeting new people. She collected many antiques and loved doing puzzle books.

Mary Anne is survived by her husband, Gary Kluender, Sr. of rural Osage; her son, Gary Kluender, Jr. (fiancée, Diane Toussaint) of Ionia; her grandchildren, Brett Kluender and Arianna Kluender of Ionia; sister, Reta Perrin of Osage; brother-in-law, Daryl Kluender (fiancée, Donna Eggena) of Orchard; nieces and nephews, Kevin Perrin, Sue Wilson, Brian Perrin, Vernon Kluender and Katie Wood.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Billy Copp.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.

Lorell Delphin Christensen

September 13, 2011

Lorell Delphin Christensen, age 83, of Riceville, lost his courageous, three year battle with pancreatic cancer in his home on Wednesday, September 7, 2011.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, September 10, at the St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Riceville. Reverend Tom Wegener officiated. Burial was in the St. Peter's Lutheran Cemetery in rural Riceville. Memorials can be sent to the St. Peter's Lutheran Church, The American Cancer Society and the Howard County Hospice.

Lorell was born on September 23, 1927 in Hardy, Nebraska, to Ansgar Emil and Mabel Emily Andrea Christensen. As a teenager, the family moved to Iowa where he graduated from the Riceville High School. Lorell was joined in marriage to Reberta Marie Ring on October 3, 1946. To this union, six children were born, Dee (Jon) Baldock of Verona, Wisconsin, Dennis (Ann) Christensen of Riceville, Iowa, Gerald (Lori) Christensen of Nora Springs, Iowa, Judy (Galen Mehl) Christensen of Lehigh, Iowa, Chris (Cindy) Christensen of Riceville, Iowa and Sue (Dan) Barnes of Adams, Minnesota. Lorell farmed in the Riceville area until retirement.

He enjoyed his winters in Arizona, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, fireworks, fishing, golfing, horses, watching chuck wagon races and the Kentucky Derby, card parties with friends, shooting pool, campfires and traveling.

Following Reberta's death, he married Myrtle Linkenmeyer on August 3, 1991. On this date his family more than doubled with the addition of Myrtle's six children, Kathy Shaw of Riceville, Mary (Jim) Langreck of Lawler, Dona (Lee) Braun of Lakeville, Minnesota, Richard (Rita) Linkenmeyer of Riceville, Susan (Craig) Burggraf of Grand Rapids, Minnesota and Ruth (Dennis Peyton) Meirick of Kasson, Minnesota; 25 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. 

Lorell is survived by his wife, Myrtle; his six children; his 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; his 6 stepchildren; 25 step-grandchildren; 7 step-great-grandchildren; his sisters, Zelda Buse Christensen and Berdean Ring; his brother, Merlin (Fay) Christensen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ansgar and Mabel Christensen; his first wife, Reberta Christensen; and his brothers-in-law, Marvin Ring and Earl Buse.

Marvel J. Kubicek

September 13, 2011

Marvel J. Kubicek, age 81, of Osage, died on Tuesday, September 13, 2011, at the Osage Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Osage.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, September 16, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Burial will be in the Osage Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-7:00p.m., on Thursday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home.

Marvel Jane (Rowe) Kubicek, was born on a farm 9 miles southwest of Osage on April 11, 1930. She was the sixth and last child born to Ray Lester and Tena (Nelson) Rowe. Marvel was baptized on September 12, 1942 and confirmed on May 28, 1944 at the Osage Lutheran Church, by Rev. T. P. Solem. She attended country school at Rock #7 through 8th grade and graduated from the Osage High School in 1947. On August 8, 1948, Marvel was united in marriage to Donald Daryl "Wig" Kubicek at the Osage Lutheran Church, by the Rev. T. P. Solem. This union was blessed with two children, Dennis Daryl and Kathy Jane. Marvel was employed as a secretary to Osage High School Principal Ira E. Larson for six years and then became an employee of Farmers Mutual Insurance Association in 1955, from where she retired in December of 1993.

She was a member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage and of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post # 7920. Marvel enjoyed playing cards, bingo and visiting casinos with her special friends, Delores Hemann and Arlene Brown. She also sent cards to family and friends for all occasions.

Marvel is survived by her son, Dennis and his wife, Theresa of Glendale, Arizona; two grandchildren, Kelly John Kubicek of Galesburg, Illinois and Amy Jane Kubicek of Scottsdale Arizona; a great-grandson, Vincent William Thomas, Jr. of Scottsdale Arizona; a great-granddaughter, Josephine Barbara Kubicek of Galesburg, Illinois; a brother, Alan Rowe of Port Orchard, Washington; three sisters-in-law, Dona Kubicek of Osage, Olive Ellis of Charles City and Ruth Kubicek of Mason City; and many nephews and nieces.

Marvel was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald "Wig" in 2001; a daughter, Kathy in 1975; and four brothers, Paul in 1984, Clyde in 1976, Earl in 1977, and Lester in 2005.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.

Birney B. Gast

September 20, 2011

Birney Bryce Gast, age 83, of Osage, died on Tuesday, September 13, 2011, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage, from complications of Parkinson's disease. 

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Sunday, September 18, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Burial was in the Rock Creek Lutheran Cemetery, rural Osage. Visitation was from 5-7:30 p.m., on Saturday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.

Birney was born on November 9, 1927 near Nora Springs, Iowa, the son of Glen and Christine (Bahnsen) Gast. He graduated from the Plymouth High School. On December 26, 1949, Birney married Betty Williams at the Rock Creek Lutheran Church in Meroa. They farmed near Nora Springs and Riceville. In 1958, Birney started working as a State Farm Insurance agent in Cresco. They moved to Osage in 1959, where Birney continued working as a State Farm agent for the next 45 years.

He was a charter member of the Comprehensive Systems Board and also served as president. Birney enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren participate in their activities.

Birney is survived by his wife, Betty Gast of Osage; his sons, Bryce Gast (special friend, Jean Canny) of Osage, Brock of Jonesboro, Arkansas and Bryan Gast of Osage;; his daughter, Becky Jo (Keith) Meinders of Osage and children, Shanlyn (Adam) Doll of Adel and Judd Meinders of Vinton; his daughter, Bunita (Dennis) Sponheim of St. Ansgar and children, Shawn (Amanda) Sponheim of St. Ansgar, Drew Sponheim of Urbandale and Kara Jo Sponheim of St. Ansgar;  and two great-grandchildren, Brevin and Jaeley Doll.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Wally Gast.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.

Gloria (Moore) Strupp

September 20, 2011

Gloria (Moore) Strupp, 70, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away surrounded by her family and friends, at the Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, on Wednesday, September, 14, 2011, after complications from surgery.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 17, at 3:00 p.m., at the Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Home, La Crosse. Rev. Travis Marshall officiated. A Private burial was in the Oakland Cemetery, Dresbach, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, Gloria and family would like people to "pay it forward" and help others in need. The family also intends to establish a scholarship in Bill and Gloria's memory.

She was born on June 7, 1941 in Onalaska, to Allan and Odessa (Severson) Moore. Gloria was raised in Dresbach, Minnesota and graduated from the Central High School in La Crosse in 1959. Gloria married William "Bill" Strupp on August 13, 1960 in Coon Valley. She and Bill started Strupp Trucking, a trucking and excavating company, where she was the co-owner, secretary, and treasurer. Bill preceded Gloria in death on March 24, 2010.

Gloria was known to have been an adventurous traveler and losing track of time while fishing and playing games. She was a passionate reader, an aspiring writer and enjoyed staying connected with her dear friends. Gloria's greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Gloria is survived by three daughters, Gennean (David) Vetrano of Bangor, Tracy (Terry) Scharper of Osage, Iowa and Kelly (Art) Herbst of La Crosse; three sons, Brian (Janice), William "JR" (Marie) and Patrick (Amy), all of Holmen; her beloved grandchildren, Stuart, Megan, William "Bud," Michael, Benjamin, Coleton and Braxton Strupp, Jessica Vetrano, and Brooke, Samantha and Luke Scharper; her mother, Odessa Moore; two brothers, David (Clydine) Moore and Dennis Moore; sisters-in-law, LaVon (Karl) Leinfelder and Diane Strupp; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her father; an infant twin sister, Gennean Moore; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edward and Berdina Strupp; and a brother-in-law, James Strupp.

Besides being a mother to her own six children, Gloria was very generous and opened her door to numerous others lending them support and considered them part of the family. Gloria and her family have been blessed with many friends and relatives who have offered their help, support and prayers through this difficult time. The family is grateful and proud to know that Gloria meant so much to so many.

Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Ruth V. Newton

September 27, 2011

Ruth Vera Newton, age 96, of Stockton, California and formerly of Riceville, passed away on Wednesday, September 14, 2011, in Stockton, California.

Private graveside services were held at the Liberty Cemetery in Little Cedar, with Pastor Gary Gilbert officiating.

Ruth was born on Christmas Day, 1914, to Mary and Joseph Baldwin. She lived most of her adult life on the Newton farm near Riceville and lived the past ten years in California near her daughter. She enjoyed needlework and jazz, and was a member of the San Joaquin Dixieland Jazz Association, Widowed Persons Association and enjoyed attending church at Central United Methodist Church in Stockton. While in Iowa, she was active in the David Community Church and David Ladies Aid.

 She is survived by her daughter, Neta M.Wright-Martin of Stockton California; her son, Jerry Lee (Joyce) Newton of Riceville; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded by her husband, Stanley G. Newton in 1999; her great-grandson, Richard Newton; five brothers and two sisters.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.

Shirley J. Kittleson

September 27, 2011

Shirley J. Kittleson, 73, of St. Ansgar, died on Wednesday, September 21, 2011, in Hospice Care of North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 24, at 10:30 a.m., at the First Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar, with Rev. Ed Bard officiating. Burial was in the First Lutheran Cemetery, St. Ansgar. Visitation was on Friday, September 23, from 4-7:00 p.m., at the Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar.

Shirley Jean Clausen Kittleson, was born on January 5, 1938, to Elmer and Marie Clausen near Stacyville, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed into the Christian faith at the Union Presbyterian Church, Stacyville. She attended the Union School and graduated from the St. Ansgar High School. On September 16, 1956, Shirley was united in marriage to Norman Kittleson in Toterville, Iowa. They made their home near Carpenter, farming for 16 years before moving to St. Ansgar in 1982. She enjoyed working the fields alongside Norm and loved caring for their horses.

Shirley held bookkeeping and accounting positions for several employers including the Carpenter Elevator, Gross & McPhail until taking a position as Office Manager with the St Ansgar Grain and Feed (currently Grain Millers) in St. Ansgar. She held that position for 34 years until her retirement in 2006. She was described by the Chairman of the Board, Rolf Abdon in the following way: "Shirley was a part of the foundation of Grain Millers and she set the tone from the beginning in the company. Her human great qualities have been of immense importance to our success."

Shirley spent a great deal of her time traveling and following the many activities her sons and grandchildren participated in. She and Norm were inducted into the STA Booster Club "Hall of Fame" in 2004 for their many years of dedication to STA athletics. Shirley was active in the First Lutheran Church as a Sunday School teacher, Church Choir and Hand Bell Choir member. She enjoyed a large garden including her many flower beds. Family was her priority, especially her grandchildren who were her pride and joy. Shirley loved music including piano, accordion, guitar and spent many hours teaching her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Marie Clausen; and sister, Myrna Heskett.

Survivors include her husband, Norm of St. Ansgar; three sons, Brian (Sheila) of Janesville Iowa, Barry (Pam) of St. Ansgar and Randy (Pam) of Verona Wisconsin; seven grandchildren, Matt, Megan, Trevor, Kelsey, Stephanie, Kaden and Kyrah Kittleson; one sister, Ann (Dean) Boynton of Anoka Minnesota; two brothers, Ronald (Audrey) Clausen of Rochester Minnesota and Rodney Clausen of Red Wing Minnesota; and one brother-in-law, Eugene Heskett of Madera, California.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.