Wayne M. Burman, 86

Published January 11, 2006, Page B-5

Wayne M. Burman, 86, died on Sunday, January 1, 2006, at the Bickford Cottage in Burlington.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 4, at the Lunning Chapel, with the Rev. Dr. Forrest Krummel officiating. The Veterans Honor Guard of VFW Posts 10102 and 9162, American Legion Post 52, Hamilton Walters Marine Corps League and AMVETS Post 29 conducted Military Rites. Burial was in the Aspen Grove Cemetery.

Born on March 31, 1919 in Forest City, he was the son of Raymond E. and Myrtle Mae (Braund) Burman. On September 1, 1940, he married Kathryn Jane Willcox in Burlington. She died on February 24, 1997. Mr. Burman worked for General Electric in production control for 22 years retiring in 1983. He also worked at Coca-Cola Co., J. I. Case Co. and the Campbell Chain. He was a 1937 graduate of the Forest City High School.

He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Burlington. He also was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans. Mr. Burman was a former Prisoner of War in Germany. He enjoyed bowling, fishing and woodworking. He was an avid Cardinals fan.

Survivors include one daughter, Nancy Crew of Mediapolis; two sons, Raymond Burman of Middletown and Donald Burman of Davenport; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his wife; his parents; one brother; and one sister.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Florence Bird, 85

Published January 11, 2006, Page B-5

Florence M. Bird, 85, of Britt, died on Monday, January 2, 2006, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 5, at the Zion Church of the Nazarene in Britt, with Rev. Ron McKee officiating. Interment was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt, with the Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel in charge of the arrangements.

Organist was Beverly Meyers and soloist was Bruce Halverson. Honorary casket bearers were Jolene Duffy, Leslie Christensen, Annie Smidt, Bernice Larson, Pam Pritchard, Della Pommer, Phyllis Janes, Lillian Love, Clara Kwolek and Ella Janes. Casket bearers were Scott Haag, Aaron Bird, Andrew Bird, Adam Bird, Nathan Christensen and Chris Duffy. Ushers were Duane Logemann and Lyle Meyers.

Florence, the daughter of Engle and Jessie (Schutjer) VanDusseldorp, was born on March 27, 1920 in Orthel Township. Florence grew up and received her education in Orthel Township. She worked for various families as a hired girl. She married Kenneth Bird on November 16, 1940. She worked at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital and the Westview Care Center. Florence worked at Snap-On and retired in 1985. After retiring she babysat for various families and house sat for elderly women.

Florence enjoyed crocheting and embroidering along with quilting, as she made quilts for her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed her flowers, sewing and refinishing furniture. She enjoyed traveling and going to visit family and friends. She was a member of the Zion Nazarene Church, Rebekah Lodge, VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Britt Senior Citizens and the Hospital Auxiliary.

Florence is survived by one son, Ken (Diane) Bird of Britt; two daughters, Sally (Bob) Haag of Algona and Etta (Dave) Mull of Forest City; seven grandchildren, Scott (Jennifer) Haag of Irvington, Jolene (Chris) Duffy of Olathe, Kansas, Leslie Christensen of Overland Park, Kansas, Nathan Christensen of Olathe, Kansas, Aaron Bird of Webster City, Adam (Molly) Bird of Hampton and Andrew Bird of Independence; seven great-grandchildren, Amanda Claussen, Jacob and Katelyn Haag, Conor, Kieran and Aidan Duffy and Teaghan Bird; special niece, Connie and her husband, Ervin Tegtmeyer of Woden; son-in-law, Wayne Christensen and his wife, Nancy of Aurora, Colorado; sister-in-law, Nona VanDusseldorp of Britt; along with nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth in 1978; daughter, Karen in 1994; parents; step-mother, Lillie VanDusseldorp; sister, Pearline and her husband, Merle Johnson; two brothers, Melvin VanDusseldorp and Carl (Red) and his wife, Emma VanDusseldorp.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Thea Siebrecht, 91

Published January 11, 2006, Page B-5

Thea L. Siebrecht, 91, of Northwood, died on Thursday, January 5, 2006, at the Lake Mills Care Center, Lake Mills.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 9, at the First Lutheran Church, Northwood, with Rev. Wayne Hagen officiating. Burial was in the Sunset Rest Cemetery, Northwood, with the Schroeder and Sites Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Thea Lila Rose, was born on April 23, 1914 in Norway Township, Winnebago County, to Christopher G. and Tina K. (Egland) Lien. Thea was baptized in the Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills, Iowa and confirmed in 1927 in the Silver Lake Lutheran Church, Worth County.

Thea was united in marriage with Palmer C. Siebrecht on November 30, 1933. They lived and farmed with Palmer’s parents until the death of Palmer’s father in 1958. Palmer and Thea moved into Northwood where Thea worked for Esther Roberts. She also worked for Ron and Sherrie Sietsema at the drive-in restaurant in Northwood. Palmer and Thea purchased “Jumbo’s Cafe” which was renamed it the Hiway Cafe but was affectionately known as “Ma’s” by the “kids” that frequented the cafe. They sold the cafe in 1966. Thea was then employed as a cook at the Lutheran Retirement Home, Northwood, for a number of years until she retired.

After Palmer’s death in 1991, Thea lived with Pam in Northwood, then moved to Thompson in 1999. Thea entered the Lake Mills Care Center after her health began to fail.

Left to cherish her memory are four daughters, Darlene (Earl) Pedersen of Albert Lea, Minnesota, LaDonna Frye of Topeka, Kansas, Pam Williamson of Thompson and Francene (John) Lee of Forest City; two foster daughters, Joan (Paul) Barber of Northwood and Betty Cichy of Bluffton, Minnesota; five grandchildren, Brian (Maleah) Pedersen of Mapleton, Minnesota, Tim Pedersen of Albert Lea, Kathleen Holford of Topeka, Sandra Arrett (Rex Swalve) of Thompson and Kimberly (Jeff) Soost of Buffalo Center; two step-grandchildren, Monica (Scott) Lamoreux of Britt, and Debbie (Jeff) Marsh of Richmond Hill, Georgia; 14 great-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Preceding Thea in death were her husband, Palmer; parents; brother, Cyrus Lien; and two sisters, Gilma Belt and Carol Rugland.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Lavonne Isebrand, 65

Published January 11, 2006, Page B-5

Lavonne M. Isebrand, 65, of Woden,  died on Saturday, January 7, 2006, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 10, at the First Presbyterian Church in Woden, with the Rev. Glenn Wilson officiating. Burial was in the Bingham Township Cemetery, Woden, with the Cataldo Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Arthur Carlson, 93

Published January 11, 2006, Page B-6

Arthur Carlson, 93, died on Monday, January 9, 2006.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 12, at 11:00 a.m., at the Christ the King Lutheran Church in Mankato, Minnesota. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment will be in the Oakland Cemetery, Forest City, at 2:30 p.m., with the Washburn-McReavy Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Arthur Sherman, the son of Albert and Anne Carlson, was born on March 14, 1912 in Leland. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He received his education in the local schools and soon after chose farming as his vocation. He bought a farm in rural Winnebago County and farmed there several years.

He was married to Katherine Hanson on November 19, 1937. The couple had two daughters. In 1950, he moved with wife and daughters to Forest City where he was employed by the Olson Furniture Company for a short time. He then began work for the Forest City Coop Oil Company. In 1952, he was asked by the company to take over its management. He continued in that capacity for 14 years.

In 1966, he and his wife moved to Mankato, Minnesota, where he accepted a position in property management with the Atwood Realty Company. In 1969, he and his wife moved to Minneapolis where he continued in property management until 1974 when he retired. They returned to their home in Mankato.

During his lifetime, he was active in many church and civic affairs. He was chairman of the Board of Deacons at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City and sang in the church choir. He was chairman of the United Fund, chairman of the Agriculture Bureau of the Chamber of Commerce, and was active in the Lions Club. After moving to Mankato, he and his wife became members of Christ the King Lutheran Church. He was an usher and a volunteer for the church’s building and grounds committee.

Arthur is survived by his wife, Katherine of Park River Estates Care Center in Coon Rapids, Minnesota; two daughters, Sherill (Richard) Bright of San Antonio, Texas and Lois (Dean) Wagner of Andover, Minnesota; three grandchildren, Deborah (Bill) Hill of Salt Lake City, Utah, Kevin Wagner of Fridley, Minnesota and Lori (Erik) Vigesaa of Osseo, Minnesota; four great-grandchildren, Joe (Audra) Veroeven of Waseca, Minnesota, Lucas Veroeven of Yankton, South Dakota, Whitney Veroven of St. Clair, Minnesota and Haydyn Vigesaa of Osseo; and three great-great-grandchildren; a twin sister, Agnes of Forest City; and sister, Ethel of Wanamingo, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Odin and his wife, Florence; sisters and brothers-in-law, Henrietta and Olaf Vogen, Ruth and Maurice Monson; and a brother-in-law, Oswald Haugen.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

John Hummel, 76

Published January 18, 2006, Page B-6

John (Bud) Hummel, age 76, of Forest City, died on Tuesday, January 10, 2006, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

As per his wishes, his body was cremated and a Memorial Mass will be offered in his honor at a later date.

John (Bud) Franklin Hummel, was born in Beloit, Wisconsin on May 18, 1929, the son of Clarence and Edith (Hollister) Hummel. When he was a young child he moved with his family to Spencer, where he grew up. He graduated from the Spencer High School and continued his education at Morningside College in Sioux City. It was there he met his future wife, Adella Campbell. They were married at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Sioux City on July 1, 1949. The couple made their home in Spencer and began raising a family.

John farmed for several years and then was employed by Spencer Foods as vice president of transportation. In 1971, the couple moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where John worked as a regional sales representative for Crete Carrier until his retirement in 1996. John and Adella moved to their present home in Forest City in 2001. They attended the St. James Catholic Church in Forest City. John liked playing golf with his friends and enjoyed keeping his yard neat. He treasured time spent with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Adella Hummel of Forest City; and two children, Michael Hummel of Orlando, Florida and Cindy Haugen of Leland, Iowa; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Charlotte and Helen; and a daughter, Nancy Wright.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Jean Stephenson, 87

Published January 25, 2006, Page B-6

Jean Roalson Stephenson, died on Tuesday, January 10, 2006, following a short illness.

In accordance with her wishes, her body has been donated to Science Care Anatomical of Phoenix, Arizona for research and will be cremated.

Jean was born on September 9, 1918 in Forest City, to Oscar and Mayme Roalson. She graduated from the Forest City High School and Waldorf College. On August 6, 1938, she married Robert W. Stephenson.

For 24 years, she played the piano or organ for the First Congregational Church and was very active in Eastern Star and Girl Scouts, serving as President of the North Iowa Girl Scout Council. She was employed by the Winnebago County Courthouse and later at the Shopper. In Bozeman, Montana, she was employed by the University of Montana in the placement office. She and Robert retired in 1981, finally settling in Earp, California along the beautiful Colorado River. Even after Robert’s death, she continued to live there and played bridge three or four times a week.

She is survived by her children, Douglas Stephenson and Margaret Bowman of East Helena, Montana, Kathleen Shafer of Taylorsville, Utah and Jacqueline Barton of Cedar Rapids; and a sister-in-law, Rozella Stephenson Harder of Ames.

She will be remembered as a loving mother of four, grandmother of 12, great-grandmother of 19 and great-great-grandmother of three.

Jean was preceded in death by her brothers, John and James Roalson; as well as her husband, Robert.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Isabell Helgren, 95

Published January 18, 2006, Page B-6

Isabell Helgren, 95, of Thompson, died on Wednesday, January 11, 2006, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 14, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery, Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Isabell Eleanor, was born in Juliaetta, Idaho, on January 8, 1911, the daughter of Harry and Lucy (Mickaelson) Frowick. As a young child, she moved with her family to Thompson, where she grew up. She attended rural school near Thompson and graduated from the Thompson High School. She continued her education at Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls.

Isabell taught for two year before her marriage to Oscar Ness in 1930. The couple made their home on a farm near Forest City. Oscar passed away in 1966. She married Leonard Helgren in 1967 and the couple made their home in Thompson. They enjoyed spending the winters in Arizona. Leonard died in 1981.

Isabell was a member of the Winnebago Lutheran Church in rural Lake Mills. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed music and loved to dance. She liked to travel and had visited all 49 states in the continental United States. Isabell treasured times spent with her family and was an outgoing person who loved to socialize with her friends. She entered the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City in September of 1999.

Isabell is survived by her son, Oscar Ness of St. Paul, Minnesota; brother, Larry Frowick; two grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Rolfe Holtan of Forest City; step-son, Jack; step-daughter, Beverly; and five step-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Oscar and Leonard; daughter, Maretta Holtan; great-granddaughter, Emily Holtan; sisters, Vera Westby, Luluvon Ostrander and Edna Pelz; and a brother, Lloyd Frowick.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

June Behrends, 82

Published January 18, 2006, Page B-6

June Behrends, 82, of Forest City, died on Friday, January 13, 2006, at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City.

Memorial services were held on Monday, January 16, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home, with Pastor Ed Bard officiating. Inurnment was in the Madison Township Cemetery south of Forest City, following the services with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

June F., the daughter of Herman and Katie (Nelson) Weaver, was born on August 18, 1923 in Vermillion, South Dakota. June grew up in the north Iowa area. She was married to Ray Behrends and one son, Keith, was born from this union.

June is survived by her son, Keith of Nora Springs; one brother, Cecil (Paula) Weaver of Mason City; two sisters, Lois (Leonard) Harms and Bonnie (Dennis) Hoeft, both of Forest City; and two sisters-in-law, Doris (Dennis) Weaver of Forest City and Lillian (Herman) Weaver of Thompson; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Herman, Dennis and Allan Weaver; and one sister, Shirley who died in infancy.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Avis Daken, 82

Published January 18, 2006, Page B-6

Avis J. Dakin, 82, of Joice, died on Friday, January 13, 2006, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 16, at the First Congregational Church in Forest City. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Douglas W. Book, 58

Published January 25, 2006, Page B-6

Douglas W. Book, age 58, of Forest City, died on Friday, January 13, 2006, at his home in Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 20, at 10:00 a.m., at the Hansen Fieldhouse in Forest City, with Rev. Jerry Blake of the St. James Catholic Church officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home, Forest City, was in charge of the arrangements.

Douglas Wayne Book, was born in Forest City, on November 3, 1947, the son of Olaf and Ellen (Homes) Book. He grew up in Forest City and graduated from the Forest City High School in 1965. He attended Waldorf College before being hired as a full-time patrolman in 1968. He graduated from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy in January 1969 and took a leave of absence from the department in 1972 to complete his bachelor’s degree at Northeast Missouri State University.

On December 3, 1973, the Forest City Council voted to hire Book as its Police Chief, replacing retiring Chief Harvey Hosier. Less than a month later, he was sworn in to a job he would never leave.

In addition to heading up the North Central Narcotics Task Force for the past ten years, Doug, at various times in his career, served as the Chairman of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Board, was President of the Iowa Association of Chiefs of Police and Peace Officers, a member of the Juvenile Justice Advisory Council, the Narcotic Enforcement Council, the Drug Abuse Prevention & Violent Crime Council, the Drug Abuse Prevention and Education Council, the Public Safety Committee of the Governor’s Commission on Down-Sizing State Government, and worked with the Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team for Emergency Personnel that helped New York City police officers deal with issues in the aftermath of the 9-11 terrorist attacks.

He held Instructor ratings in the following: Law Enforcement Firearms, Chemical Munitions, Rifle, Striking Instruments, and DARE. He previously taught Law Enforcement classes at Waldorf College and was a guest instructor at the Basic Recruit Class of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. Doug is remembered as a dedicated professional who cared deeply for his fellow officers and his community.

He is survived by his father, Olaf Book of Forest City; his uncles, Albert and Dell Book of Forest City, Harold Book of Fertile, Bud Homes of Oregon, Bob Homes of Arizona and Harold Reese of Colo, Iowa; an aunt, Violet Charlson of Red Wing, Minnesota; and many cousins and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ellen Book; and two aunts and four uncles.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

'Good guy, good cop, good friend'

Longtime Forest City Police Chief Doug Book
dies at the age of 58

Posted Online 17 January 2006
By Bob Fenske and Bob Link
Of The Summit

FOREST CITY—His voice choked with emotion, Forest City Assistant Police Chief Dan Davis tried to put into the words his feelings for his longtime boss and friend.

It was that kind of Monday for scores of law-enforcement officers throughout the state of Iowa, a day after the body of Forest City Police Chief Doug Book was found at his Forest City home.

“He was a real close friend. My kids grew up knowing him as an uncle and in a lot of ways, he was a part of our family,” Davis said. “It’s hard to imagine Doug not being a part of our lives.”

When Book didn’t respond to several pages from the Law Enforcement Center, Davis went to Book’s home to investigate around 4:30 p.m. and discovered the chief’s body.

Authorities believe Book died as the result of an accidental fall on Friday.

In Forest City and all across the state, Book was remembered as a man who was passionate about law enforcement and had a keen sense of dealing with all types of people. His death marked the end of a remarkable career that began in 1968 when he landed a job as a patrolman with the Forest City Police Department.

In 1974, he took over as the department’s chief, a position he held until his death. He spent the past 10 years as the head of the North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force.

Bill Basler, an agent with the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, said Book was “a good guy, a good cop and a good friend.”

Book’s classmate, former Gov. Terry Branstad, mourned the loss “of a good friend and an outstanding police officer. He will be greatly missed by many people all around the state.”

SCORES OF LAW enforcement officers from around the state are expected to attend Book's funeral.

It will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at Waldorf College's Hanson Fieldhouse. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Petersen Lund Funeral Home.

BOOK WAS THE only child of Olaf and Ellen Book and he grew up in Forest City, graduating from high school in 1965.

Branstad remembered Book as a popular student who made just about everyone laugh.

“In high school, he was always a fun guy,” Branstad said. “The thing about Doug is he could do these impersonations and I’m telling you, he was really good at them. He could do just about anyone and I can’t tell you how many times he cracked us up.”

Branstad also vividly recalled Book’s nickname in high school.

“He had this peach-colored skin so we always called him ‘Peaches,’” Branstad said with a laugh. “Doug always took it in stride. He was one of those guys who could joke with people but also take a joke.”

After graduating, Book attended Waldorf College before being hired as a full-time patrolman in 1968. Four years later, he took a leave of absence to complete his bachelor’s degree at Northeast Missouri State.

On Dec. 3, 1973, the Forest City Council voted to hire Book as its police chief, replacing retiring chief Harvey Hosier. Less than a month later, he was sworn in to a job he would never leave.

“I always got along great with Doug, but especially in those early years — when he was a patrolman and I was a deputy — we chummed around a lot,” Winnebago County Sheriff Tom Lillquist said. “He was very serious about law enforcement, don’t get me wrong, but we had some good times. He had a way of putting people at ease.”

At the time of his death, Book was believed to be the longest-serving police chief in the state. News of his death sent shockwaves not only through Forest City but Iowa as a whole.

In addition to heading up the area’s drug task force, Book at various times in his career served as the chairman of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Board, the president of the Iowa Association of Police Chiefs and Police Officers and worked with the Critical Incident Stress Management team that helped New York City police officers deal with issues in the aftermath of the 9-11 terrorist attacks.

“Doug is going to be sorely missed by all of us in law enforcement in Iowa,” Mason City Police Chief David Ellingson said. “Doug was just one of those natural leaders who understood cops. It didn’t matter if you were a chief or a patrolman or a dispatcher, he treated everyone with respect and trusted that we were doing the best job we could.”

FOREST CITY MAYOR George Wilson said Book should be remembered for his dedication to his hometown.

“Doug really believed in Forest City,” Wilson said Monday afternoon, “and no one can say he didn’t work as hard as he could to make it an even better place. He was extremely loyal to his officers, and he always put them first.”

Davis said that those who worked for Book appreciated that loyalty.

“The thing about Doug — on a professional level — is that you could always count on him to back you up — be it on a call, or dealing with the City Council on an issue, with the community or whatever. Doug would go the extra mile to support you as a policeman.”

Lillquist and Basler both said that in many ways Book was married to his job.

“The time he put into it, I’m not sure people realized all that he did,” Lillquist said. “I know this: Forest City certainly got its money’s worth out of Doug Book.”

One of Book's specific passions in recent years was taking on the issue of illegal drugs. He was one of the spearheads in forming the drug task force that he headed since 1996.

In an interview with the Summit last year, Book talked about fighting the good fight against drugs like methamphetamine.

“People say we’ll never stop it,” he said a year ago, “but even if you buy that — and I don’t — you can’t stop trying. It just ruins too many lives for us to give up.”

Book was also zealous in furthering the education of law enforcement officers throughout the state.

“A lot of people don’t know this, but Doug was one of the first people I knew who saw the importance of education for law enforcement,” Davis said. “I remember when he got back [from college], he told me, ‘Dan, you wait, there will be a day when almost every police officer is going to have a college education.’ And he was right.”

That educational passion was one reason Branstad appointed him to the academy board.

“He helped me a great deal to understand the issues facing officers in the state, and he passionately believed in education for police officers,” Branstad said. “In my mind, it was people like Doug Book who helped make me a better governor.”

The flags at the Forest City Police Department flew at half-staff on Monday. Inside, the shock of Book’s death had yet to wear off.

Less than 24 hours had elapsed since Davis had found the body of his longtime friend.

“To go to his house and find him ... I can’t tell you how difficult that was. I know Doug would tell us to move on, but ...”

For a moment, there was silence. And the voice, cracking with emotion again, returned.

“It’s just been hard.”

Bob Link is a reporter at the Globe Gazette in Mason City.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Farwell to the chief

they came from all over the state of Iowa and beyond to salute a man who loved his hometown

Every walk of law enforcement and public safety—beat cops, detectives, chiefs, firemen and EMTs—came to say goodbye to a man who loved his profession
By Bob Fenske
Of The Summit

FOREST CITY—The paths of Doug Book and John Graham crossed many times during their careers as law-enforcement officers, and they did so one final time on Friday.

Graham was one of hundreds of law-enforcement officers who attended the funeral for Book, the longtime Forest City police chief who died on Jan. 13. And as he eulogized Book, Graham talked about two of Book’s passions — his love for his job and his ability to make a point.

“He was a guy who would argue with you one minute and drive across the state of Iowa to back you up the next,” said Graham, an agent with the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. “He was a true friend to all law-enforcement officers.”

Book was 58 when he died as the result of an accidental fall, and his impact on Forest City, the North Iowa area and the law-enforcement community throughout the state and beyond could be seen at his funeral that was attended by more than 1,200 mourners at Hanson Fieldhouse.

When the moving ceremony ended, scores of patrol cars from dozens of agencies snaked through Forest City on their way to Madison Township Cemetery where hundreds paid their last respects to the man who had led the Forest City Police Department since 1974.

“It’s been a very hard week,” Forest City Acting Police Chief Dan Davis said, “but to know that officers from everywhere, it seems, have offered their support and sympathy has helped us get through it.”

The Rev. Jerry Blake, pastor of St. James Catholic Church, noted the number of officers in the crowd during his homily.

“I’ve been pulled over a few times,” Blake said before joking that he was sure he had never had “this many [officers] watching me.”

For the most part, however, the service was a poignant one — one that began with bagpiper John Morris playing “Amazing Grace” as pallbearers and members of the North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force Special Operations Group, which Book commanded, escorted the casket into the service.

Officers from throughout the state and southern Minnesota filled one side of the Fieldhouse and came from as far away as Minneapolis, Sioux City and Burlington.

The service’s first hymn, “How Great Thou Art,” concluded with only the law-enforcement officers singing the final verse.

Blake said Book had “a life of generous service,” and he said Book should be remembered, as media outlets reported, as a “good guy, good cop, good friend.” Blake talked about Book’s commitment to his job and his community.

He noted that Book was an only child who never married or had children, but that he could count hundreds of law-enforcement officers as his brothers and sisters and that he was a father figure to many in Forest City.

“Doug loved kids,” Blake said. “He wanted what was best for them and for them to grow up in a community that valued their safety.”

The priest noted two verses from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount — one dealing with those who seek righteousness and the other dealing with the peacemakers — and said Book lived “a life of generous service. ... We are here to show respect and gratitude to Douglas for his generosity, virtue and dedication.”

But Blake also shared humorous anecdotes about Book. “He was serious about his work, but there was also a lighter side of him. He was a practical joker.”

Blake shared an oft-told prank that Book loved to pull on his rookie officers.

As the new officer began work, Book would run him through the ropes about the simple but important duties a small-town cop must do. So he would tell officers that it was important for them to check downtown businesses to make sure their doors were locked.

And then Book would take the officer to a local cemetery and show them a mausoleum and tell the new officer that Forest City police always checked to make sure the mausoleum’s door was also locked.

As the new officers, usually with trepidation, made their way to the mausoleum, Book would wait until they had just reached the door and then sound the patrol car’s siren.

Following the service, officers in more than 80 squad cars — along with several fire trucks, ambulances and paramedic vehicles — made their way through Forest City to Madison Township Cemetery. Along the route, Forest City firefighters blocked traffic and many offered salutes to the motorcade.

On a raw winter day, hundreds of officers paid their last respects to Book. A 21-gun salute, the sounds of “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes and “Taps” filled the air as hundreds of officers gathered to support Book’s family and friends.

An hour later, those same officers gathered at the Civic Auditorium for lunch. Stories were swapped and laughter was heard.

“Doug would want us to tell some stories,” Graham said. “And he would have loved to see so many officers together. He was a good guy and a great cop, and that’s why we’re all here."
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Ardys Nelson, 71

Published February 1, 2006, Page B-5

Ardys L. Nelson, age 71, formerly of Forest City, died on Tuesday, January 24, 2006, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Friday, January 27, at the Winnebago Lutheran Church rural Leland, with Rev. Ted Gullixson of the Forest Evangelical Lutheran Church officiating. Burial was in the Winnebago Lutheran Church Cemetery. Visitation was held on Thursday, January 26, at the Mittelstadt Funeral Home.

Ardys Lenore (Flugum) Nelson, was born on May 30, 1934 in Winnebago County, to parents Clarence and Myrtle (Monson) Flugum. She was baptized and confirmed at the Winnebago Lutheran Church of rural Leland. As the second oldest child in her family of eight, Ardys often babysat for her siblings. She attended country school at the Haugland School near her home and graduated from the Forest City High School.

Following her education, Ardys worked as a secretary for various law firms in Forest City and Mason City and in Washington, D.C., most notably for Mr. John J. Sirica, who was a trial lawyer in the Watergate trial. Upon returning to the Midwest, Ardys began working for the Winnebago County Selective Service and Winnebago County Human Services, where she helped families and elderly with medical and social assistance.

In her spare time, Ardys enjoyed traveling, whether it was to countries in the United Kingdom, or on a car ride with her family to go out for dinner. Ardys loved her children and grandchildren, and took part in their lives as often as she could.

Survivors include her three children, Frederic Nelson and his wife, Beth of Lake Mills, Bruce Nelson and his wife, Linda and Gail McCarthy and her husband, Gary, all of Forest City; six grandchildren, Jill Nelson and her fiancée, Brian Budach of Lake Mills, Rob Nelson of Scarville, Ryan McCarthy, Kristen McCarthy, Laura Nelson, and Sarah Nelson, all of Forest City; three sisters, Marilyn Tweeten and her husband, Maynard of Joice, LeAnn Meier of Mason City and Karen Johns and her husband, Wayne of Forest City; three brothers, Bernard Flugum and his wife, Arlene of North English, Curtis Flugum and his wife, LaDonna of Forest City and Neal Flugum and his wife, Joyce of Forest City; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Kelly McCarthy; a brother, Dennis Flugum; and brother-in-law, Francis Meier.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Senora Jenson, 98

Published February 1, 2006, page B-5
Published February 8, 2006, Page B-8

Senora I. Jenson, age 98, of Forest City, died on Thursday, January 26, 2006, at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City.

Graveside services were held on Monday, January 30, at 10:30 a.m., at the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City, with the Rev. Lee Laaveg, pastor of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, officiating. There was no visitation. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home of Forest City, handled the arrangements.

Senora Irene Jenson, was born in Leland, Iowa, on March 28, 1907, the daughter of Michael and Julia (Brackey) Anderson. She was baptized and confirmed at the Winnebago Lutheran Church and received her education in rural Leland schools. She married Joseph Jenson and the couple began farming near Wells, Minnesota.

In 1931, they moved to a farm in Ellington Township near Forest City. The family moved to Forest City in 1937, where Senora worked for the Forest City Bakery and at Forest City Produce. After her husband passed away in 1960, Senora moved to Des Moines, where she worked as a nurses' aide at the Lutheran Hospital for many years. She made her home with her son, Stanley at different times in her life and cared for an aging aunt in Charles City for several years. After retiring, Senora returned to Forest City, entering the Good Samaritan Center in 1981.

Senora is survived by her son, Stanley Jenson and his wife, Florence of Marietta, Georgia; two grandchildren, Murray (Elaine) Jenson and Colleen (Gary) Cato; five great-grandchildren, Sean, Jeanette, Christina, Rebecca and Brooks; and a great-great-grandson, Gavin Porter.

Senora was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph; and a brother, Gordon Anderson.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Lilia D. McCauley, 49

Published March 22, 2006, Page B-5

Lilia D. McCauley, 49, of Fairfield, California, wife of former Forest City resident, Mark H. McCauley, died on Friday, January 27, 2006, as the result of a car accident between Fairfield and Vallejo.

Visitation was held at the Bryan-Braker Funeral Home in Fairfield, on Monday, February 6. Funeral Services were conducted in the Philippines on Tuesday, February 14. Memorials will be used to further the education of children in the Philippines.

Lilia was born in Tabtabungae, Rosaria, La Union, the Philippines, on September 2, 1956, to Marciana F. Decayment and Delfin Diaz. Lilia received her education there, graduating from the Jose Rizal College, Philippines. In the mid-1980's she emigrated to the United States. Lilia Evangelista and Mark Henry McCauley were married on October 29, 2001 in the Philippines. Planning to eventually retire there, a home was completed this past year just south of Manila. Lilia was employed for 15 years at the Fairfield Kmart. In 2000, she assumed management of TowerMart N. 86 in Cordelia. Most recently Lilia managed TowerMart No. 99 in Suisun Valley.

Survivors include her husband, Mark Henry McCauley; siblings, Lourdes (Arsenio) Cologne, Leticia (Jose Daulef) Diaz, Delfin (Luz) Diaz Jr., Ernesto (Marilou) Diaz and Miguel (Emilia) Flores; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Marcianna E. Diaz; and her father, Delfin Diaz, Sr.
© 2006 Forest City Summit

Maccine Lovik, 92

Published February 1, 2006, Page B-5

Maccine R. Lovik, age 92, of Forest City, died on Saturday, January 28, 2006, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 2, at 11:00 a.m., at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Thompson, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Decker officiating. Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Forest City.

Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, at the funeral home and an hour prior to the services at the church. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home, Forest City, is in charge of the arrangements.

Maccine Ramona Perkins Lovik, the daughter of Oren and Sina (Anderson) Perkins, was born on May 17, 1913 in Worth County, rural Northwood and was the second youngest of 7 children born to this union. She was baptized and confirmed at the Silver Lake Lutheran Church, Worth County, rural Northwood. She received her education at the Hartland Township Rural School and graduated from the Northwood High School in May, 1931. In 1932, she married Harry Lovik. To this union 3 children were born.

The couple farmed near Northwood, later moving to a farm near Hanlontown and then purchased a farm near Thompson in 1948. In 1979, they divorced. Maccine was active in the Bethany Lutheran Church and in a group called JFF Club which met “Just For Fun” and fellowship.

Her hobbies included gardening, reading and crafts. She especially liked doing the art of quilling. She moved to Forest City in 1978 where she worked as a kitchen aide for about 20 years at the Good Samaritan Center. Because of failing health, she entered the Lake Mills Care Center in August of 1997.

 She will be remembered by her family as a very loving mom and grandmom who made the best sugar cookies and lefse ever.

Survivors included her daughter, Kathryn Olson and her husband, Don of Forest City; son, Ronald Lovik and his wife, Jill of Birmingham, Alabama; sister, Lois Ellgen and her husband, Clifford of Clear Lake; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her son, Gary; three daughters-in-law, Janet Lovik, Margaret Lovik and Helen Lovik; her parents; two brothers, Raymond, in infancy and Claude; and sisters, Frances Rusley, Esther Herr and Lula Scara.
© 2006 Forest City Summit