Iner "Ray" Baake, 86

January 9, 2007

Iner “Ray” Bakke, age 86, died on Friday, January 5, 2007, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills, Iowa.

Funeral service was held on Tuesday, January 9, at the Fertile Lutheran Church in Fertile, with Mr. David Halverson officiating. Burial was in the Brush Point Cemetery, rural Fertile, with military honors conducted by the Clear Lake VFW.

Visitation was held on Monday at the Mittelstadt Funeral Home and continued one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday.

Iner Raymond Bakke, was born on October 27, 1920, to Torborn (Tom) and Lena (Eggen) Bakke at Callendar, Iowa in Webster County. The family lived there until Ray was 7 years old, and then moved to the Forest City area. He finished eighth grade and went to work for area farmers to help his family out. After farming for some time, Ray went to work for Eddie Knutson at Leland in the produce business.

In December of 1942, Ray was drafted and served in the Armed Forces until February of 1946. He spent most of his time in Newberry, England. When he was discharged, Ray came back to Fertile to drive a lime truck for the quarry.

On August 3, 1947, Ray was united in marriage with Lorraine Gilbertson at the Concordia Lutheran Church in rural Joice.

Just prior to and for a short time after his marriage, he ran a restaurant in Fertile. But always a farmer at heart in 1950, he and Lorraine started farming southwest of Fertile and farmed for 11 years. In 1961, they purchased the feed mill in Fertile which they ran until he started working in the RV industry. Ray first worked at Kayot Forrester, then at Winnebago Industries until his first retirement in 1987. Not one to be idle, he started a lawn and garden service - twice.

He was a past Commander of the VFW in Clear Lake, and also served as Treasurer for the Fertile Lutheran Church, which included the building fund.

In 1992, Ray and Lorraine moved to Lake Mills, where Ray kept busy taking soil samples part time and coffeeing full time, thoroughly enjoying his coffee buddies. He entered the Lake Mills Care Center in late August 2006.

Ray never met a stranger, always friendly with a humorous wit. Who can forget his Victor Borge readings with punctuation, or the laughter, many times at his own expense? In his younger years, he sang in a quartet and always enjoyed music. As an accomplished dancer, he and Lorraine taught ballroom dancing for many years.

Ray always loved children, which lead to many years of playing Santa Claus in the Fertile/Forest City areas.

Having only an 8th grade education, education was very important to Ray. He lived to see all 6 grandchildren graduate from college, 4 of which he attended personally. He was happiest when all of his family could be together. The last time was in early September when the entire family gathered to celebrate Lorraine's 80th birthday.

Survivors include his wife, Lorraine of Lake Mills; three children, Steven R. Bakke and his wife, Anne of Forest City, Craig L. Bakke and his wife, Judy of Bucklin, Missouri and Carolyn Swanson and her husband, Allan of Lake Mills; grandchildren, Aaron Bakke and his fiancée Keiru Mbah of Evanston, Illinois, Laura Bakke of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dr. Ryan Bakke and his wife, Jana of Newton, Rachel Holmberg and her husband, Trent of Adel, Dr. Tim Colby of Des Moines and Katy Blomgren and her husband, Jim of Cumming; great-grandchildren, Alayna and Ashlyn Bakke, Bennett Holmberg, Aidan and Keaton Colby, and Hunter Blomgren; sisters and brothers-in-law, Gretchen Bakke of Lebanon, Missouri, Shirley Sheimo of Garner, Darlene Ziesmer of Garner, and James and Judy Gilbertson of Ackley; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Lena; two sisters, Blanche Helland and Agnes Ryerson Robinson; two brothers, Alvin and Truman Bakke; three nieces, Kathy, Joann, and Sandra; and three nephews, Jerome, Ron, and Richard.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Curtis R. Peterson, 90

January 16, 2007

Curtis R. Peterson, age 90, formerly of Forest City and presently residing in Britt, died at his home in Britt, on Sunday, January 7, 2007.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 11, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Pastor Barb Spaulding officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City. Visitation was held an hour prior to services at the church. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Curtis R. Peterson, was born in Wallingford, Iowa on November 14, 1916, the son of Peter P. and Josie (Berdahl) Peterson. He attended rural school near his home and began farming at an early age. Curtis loved farming. In 1971 he was awarded the Iowa Soil Conservation Achievement Award for terrace farming.

Curtis was very active in the Forest City community after retiring from farming. He served as an officer in the Kum Along Club, volunteered with the “Toys for Tots” program, drove his pickup to help deliver clothing for the “Country Cousins” outreach program and was involved with starting the Senior Citizens Center. Curtis received several awards for his volunteer service, from both Governor Branstad and the Kum Along Club.

He enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and had delivered motor homes for Winnebago Industries. Repairing tricycles & bicycles was another hobby he enjoyed.

Curtis loved to play the accordion and entertain at special events. He took up flying and owned an airplane. Curtis enjoyed being a handyman by helping others in the community. Quite often he volunteered his services without being asked. He was confirmed and a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City.

He is survived by two sisters, Judith and Margaret Peterson of Britt; one sister-in-law, Mary Peterson of Mason City; three nieces; and four nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and five brothers, Elmer, Maurice, Eddie, Raymond and Earl.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Steven Gerdes, 39

January 16, 2007

Steven D. Geddes, 39, of West Richland, passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2007 in Richland, Washington.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 13, 2007, at the Einan's Funeral Home in Richland, Washington. Visitation was held on Friday at the funeral home.

He was born on March 30, 1967 in Britt, to Dean and Karen Geddes. Steven went to school in Forest City through the ninth grade and was baptized at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner.

The family moved to Searchlight, Nevada in 1982. Steven graduated from High School in Boulder City, Nevada in 1985, where he was involved in wrestling and football.

He and Susan Marak were married on February 2, 1986. Becoming a Dad and watching his children grow was his proudest family achievement. Steve was always willing to help people out whenever they needed it and enjoyed his time working as an EMT in Searchlight, Nevada. He liked camping and boating.

Survivors include his wife, Susan A. Geddes; daughters, Aleshia E. Geddes (20) and Amanda R. Geddes (19); sons, Stephen R. Geddes (16) and Adam S. Geddes (15); mother, Karen Geddes; grandmother, Helena Zuehl; sister, Dawn and her husband, Muzi Naim; brother, Greg and his wife, Debbie Geddes and their three children, Quinten, Christian and Alexandra.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dean Geddes; and his brother, Mike Geddes.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Ruth Mergertie Swyter, 91

January 16, 2007

Ruth Mergertie Swyter, 91, passed away on Monday, January 8, 2007, at the Mercy Hospital in Mason City, Iowa.

There will be no visitation as the body was cremated. A memorial service will be held at the Britt Christian Reformed Church on Thursday, January 18, at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Joel DeBoer officiating.

Ruth, the daughter of Neal and Mirinda Michelsen VanDusseldorp, was born on September 20, 1915, on a farm south of Kanawha. She attended area rural schools.

On January 1, 1939, she was united in marriage with Carl Swyter at her parents' home near Kanawha. The couple farmed on Carl's home place near Britt in Erin Township, until retiring and moving into Britt in 1978.

Ruth was a member of the United Methodist Church of Britt. She was a member of the church circle and served on various church committees. She was a long standing member of the Rebekha Lodge. Ruth enjoyed quilting and doing embroidery work, and made quilts and many embroidery items for all of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed her flower gardening, reading, and keeping up with current events. She also enjoyed keeping in contact with her many relatives.

After raising her family Ruth obtained her GED. She then attended NIACC and Iowa Lakes Community College where she received her LPN nursing degree in March 1974. In 1976, she received her EMT Certification and was a charter member of the West Hancock Volunteer Ambulance Service. She also worked as a nurse's aide at the West View Care Center.

Ruth is survived by three sons. Ross (Sandy) Swyter of Britt and daughters, Emily and Hannah. Roger (Beth) Swyter of Nashua and children, Michael (Tana) Swyter and Pam Swyter. Robert (Peggy) Swyter of Hoffman Estates, Illinois and sons, Robert JR., (fiancée, Stacy) and William. She is also survived by six great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carl in 1992; two children, David in 1943 and Sue Ann in 1945; and a sister, Mildred Bloxham.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Deryl Underbakke, 77

January 16, 2007

Deryl Wayne Underbakke, passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2007, at his home in Hoover, Alabama.

Deryl the son of Bert and Alida Oswald Underbakke, was born on September 3, 1929 in Rake, Iowa. He was a graduate of the Rake High School and attended Luther College in Decorah. He was an Army Sgt. Veteran of the Korean War.

Left to honor his memory are his sons, John (Marcia) Underbakke of Stafford, Virginia and Clark Underbakke of Pelham, Alabama; three grandsons, Jacob, Caleb and Lucas of Virginia; a brother, Dennis (Alyce) Underbakke of Forest City; and many nieces and nephews.

Deryl was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jane; his parents; one brother; and two sisters.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Elizabeth H. "Betty" (Branstad) Burtness, 95

January 16, 2007

Elizabeth H. (Branstad) Burtness, 95, of St. Paul, Minnesota, died peacefully on Thursday, January 11, 2007, at the Lyngblomsten Care Center.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 16, at the Saint Anthony Park Lutheran Church, with burial in the Oakland Cemetery, Forest City. Memorials may be directed to the St. Anthony Park Lutheran Church or to the donor's choice. The Gill Brothers Funeral Directors, Minneapolis, was in charge of the arrangements. 

Elizabeth was born on February 17, 1911 in Irene, South Dakota, the daughter of Ida Bjerke Lokken and K. O. Lokken. Betty and Oscar Branstad were married on August 9, 1947. Oscar died in 1982. On October 3, 1989, Betty and Ernest Burtness were married.  Burt passed away in 1995. 

Thanks be to God for Betty the wise educator. A graduate of Augustana College, Sioux Falls, Betty did graduate work at the University of Minnesota and the University of Colorado. She was a high school teacher in Mt. Vernon and Freeman, South Dakota and in Lake Mills and Forest City. Her calling to teach included serving as a counselor of student nurses at Fairview Hospital and on the faculty of Waldorf College.

Reflecting upon her life, Betty quoted her baptismal certificate "Elizabeth Harriet Lokken - Child of God".  She continued, "And that is the rock of my life, Child of God. Thanks be to God."  Thanks be to God for Betty the loving family member.   

Betty showed her faith as a Sunday School teacher, Bible study leader, tutor, writer and speaker. Thanks be to God for Betty the vibrant, grace filled woman of faith, a devoted friend and respected leader. Betty's many gifts were affirmed when she served as National President of the Lutheran Daughters of the Reformation (1946-48) and the Women's Missionary Federation (1954-58). Betty's strong faith, delightful personality and enduring love will continue to illumine our lives.

Betty was preceded in death by her siblings, Olin, Chester, Inga Basara and Myrtle Hanson; niece, Helen Hay; nephews, Tom and Richard Lokken. 

She is survived by her nieces and nephew, Phyllis (Warren) Day of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Joanne (Rev. Allan) Negstad of Minneapolis. Minnesota, Mary (Chris) Trodahl of Bethel, Connecticut, Karolyn (Jim) Foreman of Centreville, Maryland and Rev. Mark (Ione) Hanson of Chicago, Illinois; 17 great-nieces and nephews; the Branstad and Burtness families; and a host of friends and former students. 
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Edgar Etherington, 87

January 16, 2007

Edgar W. Etherington, 87, of Monticello, Iowa, died on Friday, January 12, 2007, at the Anamosa Care Center, after a short illness.

A memorial service was held on Tuesday, January 16, 2007, at the Kramer Funeral Home, in Monticello, Iowa with burial in the Oakwood Cemetery, Monticello.

Edgar was born on March 1, 1919 in Lake Crystal, Minnesota, the son of Roy and Elma (Rollings) Etherington.  He married Faye Hakes on Nov. 23, 1938 in Garner. Together they farmed near Plymouth, Clear Lake and Woden, then in Talmoon, Minnesota for 25 years. They moved to the Monticello area in 1995. When the chores were done, Edgar loved to fish. He also enjoyed swapping jokes and playing cards with family and friends.

Survivors include his 2 daughters, Shirley (Tom) Gutzeit of Monticello and Nancy (David) Cink of Mantica, California; 2 sons, Rick (Mary) of Garner and Mike (Linda) of Titonka; 8 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 3 brothers, Bob (LaVon) of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, Ralph (Roberta) of New Hope, Minnesota and Jerry (Judy) of Mapleton, Minnesota; one sister, Vivian Thomas of Lake Crystal, Minnesota; and a brother-in-law, James Roberts of Lake Crystal, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Faye in 2000; a son in infancy; one sister, Berneatha Roberts; and a sister in infancy, Bonnie.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Milton Hanson, 93

January 16, 2007

Milton O. Hanson, 93, of Forest City, died on Saturday, January 13, 2007, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, January 17, at the Faith Lutheran Church in Miller, with Pastor Rose Visser officiating. Burial will be in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City.

Visitation was held from 4-6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City and one hour prior to services at the church.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Robert T. Kelly, 88

January 23, 2007

Robert T. Kelly, 88, of Britt, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2007, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 19, 2007, at 10:30 a.m., at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt, with Father Henry Huber officiating.  Burial was in the St. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery near Britt. Military graveside services were under the direction of the Britt Ceremonial Honor Guard.

Visitation was held on Thursday, January 18, 2007, from 4-7:00 p.m., at the Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel in Britt and continued one hour prior to services at the church. A Scriptural Wake Service was held at 7:00 p.m., with a Knights of Columbus Rosary at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral chapel.

Robert Terrance Kelly, the son of Frank V. Kelly and Ella (Mullin) Kelly, was born on October 28, 1918 on a farm southwest of Britt, Iowa. He was educated his first five years in the rural schools of Hancock County. Later, the family moved to a farm in Britt township. So his later schooling was completed in the Britt Public Schools, graduating in 1936.

After graduation, he worked on the family farm for two years before attending Iowa State College, graduating with a degree in General Engineering. In 1942, he started working for Glen L. Martin in Omaha, where they were building the B-26 airplanes. In 1943, he transferred to Seattle as a Liaison Engineer between Glen L. Martin and Boeing for the manufacture of B-29 bombers. In 1944, he enlisted in the Navy Reserve as an Ensign. The War ended in 1945 and he was discharged from the Navy as a Second Lieutenant.

On January 3, 1946, he was married to Evangeline Cruise at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt. He went to Indianapolis where he worked for twenty years for Factory Insurance Co. as a Fire Protection Engineer. During this time, he also received his Master's Degree from Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana. Upon the receipt of his Master's Degree, he elected to join the staff at Wright Patterson AFB in Ohio in the same capacity. Three years later, he went to St. Paul to work for the 3M Co. After thirteen years, he retired and moved back to Britt.

He was an active member of the Knight's of Columbus, the National Fire Protection Association, Society of Fire Protection Engineers, Society of Certified Safety Engineers, the Britt Historical Society and the Britt Library Board. Upon his return to Britt, he volunteered to be the area Weatherman with the assistance of Bernard Kunkel.

After his retirement, Bob was able to enjoy one of his favorite hobbies, traveling. He and his wife spent many years enjoying tours and spending the winter in Arizona, Texas and California.

Survivors include his wife, Evangeline; two daughters, Elizabeth (Ken) Gigax and Paula Kelly. He is also survived by his three sisters, Arlene McDermott, Rose Mary Stevermer and Teresa Rottinghaus; and one brother, Paul (Marlys) Kelly.

In addition, he is survived by two sisters-in-law, Bonnie Kelly and Noreen Kelly. He is also survived by many cousins, nephews, nieces, great-nieces and nephews and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Joseph and Francis.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Rick Gremmer, 50

January 23, 2007

Rick Gremmer, 50, of Wesley, Iowa, passed away on Friday, January 19, 2007, as a result of an accident that occurred on Highway 17, near Renwick, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday January 24, 2007, at 2:00 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church in Wesley, with Pastor Allen Poore-Christensen officiating.  Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery in Wesley.

Visitation for Rick Gremmer will be held on Tuesday, January 23, 2007, from 5-7:00 p.m., at the Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West, in Britt and continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Ricky Allen Gremmer, the son of George and Pearl Smith Gremmer, was born on May 17, 1956 in Britt, Iowa. He was raised in the Britt area graduating from the Britt High School in 1974. After high school Rick enjoyed his work with Morton Buildings.  

From 1977 to 1983, Rick was married to Debra Lichman and this marriage was blessed with two daughters. In 1990, Rick met Veleta Mausehund, they moved to Wesley and have been together ever since. Rick worked for K & H in Wesley for nine years, most recently driving truck for Ludwig Service.  

He enjoyed camping with family and friends, golfing with friends, especially with his "Garner buddies" and restoring many classic cars, just finishing his '57 Chevy. Rick was a huge Minnesota Vikings fan. He loved socializing with people and hosting football parties in his garage. Rick was an animal lover, leaving behind a bird, cat and 2 dogs. 

Rick was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Wesley and was a retired volunteer fireman.    

Rick is survived by his significant other, Veleta Mausehund of Wesley; two daughters, Tracy Ludwig and her husband, Lance of Wesley and Stacy Gremmer and her boyfriend, Jack “Ben” Smith of Wesley; two step-daughters, Theresa Grady and her husband, Steve Earles of Wesley and Paula Pals and her husband, Chad of Britt; one step-son, Terry Mausehund and his special friend, Shelley Sawyer of Neola; four grandchildren, Brody Ludwig, Taylor Earles, Amanda Grady and Kaylyn Earles; one great-grandson, Justin Bauer; two sisters, Carol Brunsen and her special friend, Donald Preuschl of Wesley and Linda Gremmer of Britt; one brother, Dennis Gremmer and his wife, Judy of Wesley; along with other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Pearl Gremmer; and by two grandsons, Eric Grady and Ryan Mausehund.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Rose Hinderaker, 79

January 23, 2007

Rose Hinderaker, age 79, of Lake Mills, died at the Muse Norris Hospice at Mason City, on Sunday January 21, 2007.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2007, at 1:30 p.m., at the Bethel Lutheran Brethren Church, south of Joice. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Virginia A. Stegman, 73

January 30, 2007

Virginia A. Stegman, 73, of Britt, passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2007, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 26, at 1:00 p.m., at the Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel in Britt, with Pastor Joel DeBoer officiating. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery in Britt. Visitation was held on Friday, from 11:00 until 1:00 p.m., at the Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel, Britt.

Virginia, the daughter of Everett and Alberta Winderss Garbett, was born on December 5, 1933 in Webster City, Iowa. She was raised in the Eagle Grove and Humboldt areas and graduated from the Eagle Grove High School. Following high school she attended the University of Iowa. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in English in 1956. Virginia was united in marriage with Jacob “John” Stegman at Iowa City, Iowa, while he was a student at the university.

Virginia and her husband, John owned the Britt News-Tribune from 1966 to 1986. After raising her children, she worked in the Britt High School library. In the 70's and 80's she assisted John at the News-Tribune. Virginia also worked at Gunther's Food for several years before she retired.

Virginia enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, especially at their school activities. She was a big Hawkeye fan, enjoying both basketball and football.

Virginia is survived by one daughter, Catherine Stegman of Omaha, Nebraska; four sons, James Stegman of Spencer, Michael Stegman of Clear Lake, John Stegman of Wesley and Thomas Stegman of West Des Moines; six grandchildren, Christina and Courteney Stegman of Spencer, Brent and Samantha Stegman of Wesley, Madison and Jacob Stegman of West Des Moines; great-grandson, Kayden Stegman; and sister-in-law, Dr. Mary Ruth Stegman of Omaha, Nebraska.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, John in 1998.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Helen M. Baker, 94

January 30, 2007

Helen M. Baker, age 94, formerly of Hayfield, Iowa, died on Tuesday, January 23, 2007, at the Valley Vue Care Center in Armstrong, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 27, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Pastor Barb Spaulding officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City. Visitation was held on Friday, January 26, at the funeral home and continued one hour prior to the service at the church. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Helen Marie Baker, was born in Sandhills, Nebraska on July 13, 1912, the daughter of Oscar and Mary (Bankson) Gorman. She received her education in country schools in Gowrie, Iowa and Woden, Iowa. She was confirmed in the Lutheran faith at Gowrie.

On March 15, 1933, she was united in marriage to Ben C. Baker at Britt, Iowa. The couple made their home in Hayfield for many years. Helen worked in the Housekeeping Department at Waldorf College until retiring. She loved to spend time with her children and grandchildren. Sitting on the lakeshore fishing for bullheads with Ben was a perfect way to spend time together. Helen liked doing handwork of all kinds, sewing, crocheting and embroidering. She enjoyed caring for her flower gardens.

In August of 1996, Helen moved from Hayfield to Swea City, Iowa, to be closer to family. A year later, in August of 1997, she made her home at the Valley Vue Care Center in Armstrong, Iowa.

Helen is survived by two sons and their wives, Dean and Millie Baker of Algona and Bob and Gloria Baker of Swea City. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ben; sisters, Leone and Lola; and brothers, Oliver and Clarence.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

William L. Gerdes, 79

January 30, 2007

Surrounded by his loving family, William L. Gerdes, 79, of Woden, died on Wednesday, January 24, 2007, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, January 31, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Woden, with Rev. Bill Peters officiating. Burial will be in the Bingham Township Cemetery, with military rites by the Woden Veterans Ceremonial Unit. Visitation will be held from 4-6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, at the Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden and will continue one hour prior to services at the church.  

William Leroy Gerdes, the son of William T. and Bertha (Gerdes) Gerdes, was born on April 13, 1927, on a farm east of Woden. He attended the rural schools of Bingham Township and graduated from the Woden High School in 1945. Bill served his country in the U.S. Army from July of 1945 to January of 1947.  

On September 10, 1949, he married Velma Mildred Geerdes at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Woden. They made their home in Woden where they raised their five sons. Bill worked in the family construction business, Gerdes Construction, building many homes, business buildings and other landmarks in the Woden area. Bill remained active in the business with his brother, Dennis, for many years. Most recently, he was helping his sons in their construction and woodworking businesses. 

He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and fishing trips to Canada and Minnesota with family and friends.

He was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church, where he was baptized and confirmed. He had served as Mayor of Woden and was a member and past commander of the Woden American Legion.

Bill is survived by his wife, Velma of Woden; 5 sons, Gary (Ann) Gerdes of Forest City, Tim (Lori) Gerdes of Lake Mills, Dale (Kristin) Gerdes of Forest City, Steve (special friend, Sharla Krein) of Crystal Lake and Bruce (Christine) Gerdes of Buffalo Center; 12 grandchildren, Jodie (Al) Steen, Matthew Gerdes, Andrew Gerdes, Lucas Gerdes, Jamie Gerdes, Christopher (Crystal) Gerdes, Joshua Gerdes, Caleb Gerdes, Justin (Miho) Gerdes, Heather (Andy) May, Jonathon Gerdes and Zachary Gerdes; 3 great-grandchildren, Nicole Steen, Dillon Gerdes and Taylor May; 2 brothers, Paul (Betty) Gerdes of Woden and James (Helen) Gerdes of Osage; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dennis (Darlene) Gerdes; and sister-in-law, Geraldine Gerdes.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Catherine A. Davis, 90

January 30, 2007

Catherine “Kate” A. Davis, 90, of Clear Lake, died on Wednesday, January 24, 2007, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 27, at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, with Lay Assistant Richard Scott officiating. Interment was in the Clear Lake Cemetery. Visitation was held on Friday, at Ward-Van Slyke. Memorials may be given to the Hospice of North Iowa.

Kate was born on November 18, 1916 in Clear Lake, the daughter of Orren and Dorcas Rose (Pester) Porter. She graduated from the Clear Lake High School. She lived in Clear Lake her entire life.

Kate married Charles “Chuck” Davis on March 3, 1935, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They were married for over 69 years.

Kate was a great cook. She loved baking, sewing and her cats. Her greatest love was spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was a very thoughtful mother and grandmother to all. She enjoyed playing scrabble, cards, and especially 500 at the Clear Lake Senior Citizens Center and at home. She was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church.

Kate is survived by four children, Sandra Cesar of Clear Lake, Jill Deuel and her husband, Rick of San Antonio, Texas, Joni Anderson of Kingman, Arizona and Scott Davis and his wife, Rene of Forest City; eight grandchildren, Shaun Cesar and his wife, Lori, Tracy Connell, Dwayne Davis, Stacie Peavy and her husband, David, Chad Deuel and his wife, Michelle, Cody Deuel, Christie Anderson and Heidi Spurlock and her husband, Davy; thirteen great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Kate was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles on July 3, 2004; son, Michael; two infant great-grandsons; four sisters, Flossie Skellenger, Ella Bruns, Lucille Franklin and Esther Evans.

The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Elsie L. Miller, 86

February 6, 2007

Elsie Lena (DeWaard) Miller, 86, of Britt, passed away on Friday, January 26, 2007, at the Westview Care Center in Britt

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 30, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., at the Britt Christian Reformed Church, with Pastor Joel DeBoer officiating. Burial was in the Woden Christian Reformed Church Cemetery near Woden.

Visitation was held on Monday, January 29, from 4:30 until 7:30 p.m., at the Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel in Britt and one hour prior to services at the church.

Elsie, the daughter of John and Lyda Vreeman DeWaard, was born on February 11, 1920 in Luctor, Kansas. At a young age, she moved with her family to a farm near Kanawha, where she attended country school.

On April 24, 1941, Elsie was united in marriage with John H. Miller at the Woden Christian Reformed Church. She and her husband farmed in the Britt area until they moved to town in 1961. 

She was a charter member of the Britt Christian Reformed Church and was currently serving on the 50th Anniversary Committee of the Church and Ladies Aid Society. Elsie was employed in the housekeeping department of the Westview Care Center for 22 years.

Elsie is survived by her son, Merlin (Lola) Miller of Iowa City, Iowa; three daughters, Darlene (Lee) Buseman of Aplington, Iowa, Shirley (Steve) Hasty of Kanawha, Iowa and Marge (Doug) Reed of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; seven grandchildren, Denise, Chad, Linda (Todd), Brenda (Tom), Scott (Dina), Shannon and Sara; eight great-grandchildren, Brady, Emmy, Brandi, Colby, Caleb, Jack, MacKenna and Clarissa; four step-grandchildren; twelve step-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Henry (Josie) of Kanawha and Jake (Lorraine) of Titonka; one sister, Sereina Holleman of Hancock, Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Ruth DeWaard of Woden and Wilma DeWaard of Independence.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; parents; three brothers; and one brother in infancy.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Florence Graff, 91

January 30, 2007

Florence Graff, age 91, of Mason City, died on Friday, January 26, 2007, at the Muse Norris Hospice in Mason City.

A Mass of the Resurrection was held on Monday, January 29, 2007, at the St. James Catholic Church in Forest City, with Fr. Henry Huber officiating.

Burial was in the St. James Catholic Cemetery in Forest City. Visitation was held on Sunday, January 28, at the funeral home and an hour prior to service at the church. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home  was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Hilda Bess, 85

February 13, 2007

Hilda Bess, age 86, passed away on Friday, January 26, 2007, in Tempe, Arizona. Hilda was born on October 8, 1920.

Hilda Bess is survived by two daughters, Trudy Hauan of Thompson and Jeriann Lennox of Chandler, Arizona; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at a later date.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Leon D. Eymann, 82

January 30, 2007

Leon Donald Eymann, 82, of Clear Lake, died on Saturday, January 27, 2007, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Memorial services were held on Wednesday, January 31, 2007, at the Zion Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, with Reverend Dean Hess officiating. Family received friends one hour prior to the church services. Following the services there was military honors at the church by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Clear Lake. According to his wishes his body was cremated. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

The family of Leon Donald Eymann has requested that memorial contributions be made to the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa West Campus Dialysis Center in his memory. 

 Leon Donald Eymann, was born on August 2, 1924 in Forest City, Iowa, the son of L.K. and Vesta (Lewis) Eymann. Don attended school in Forest City and graduated from the Forest City High School. He enlisted into the Army Air Corps during World War II and served overseas in the European Theater. He was a co-pilot on a B-17 bomber and was honorably discharged as a 2nd Lt. 

After his honorable discharge, Don attended the University of Iowa in Iowa City. Don returned to Forest City, to join his brother, John in the family business Eymann's, selling cars and John Deere equipment. He moved to Clear Lake in 1986, working as a realtor for Northern Realty in Clear Lake.

He was united in marriage to Shirley on August 15, 1950 in Mason City, Iowa. 

He enjoyed mowing his yard, traveling, fishing, playing cards, hunting, and golfing, but his great love and enjoyment was his family and friends.

He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Clear Lake, and the Clear Lake Veterans of Foreign Wars.   

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Shirley Eymann of Clear Lake; three children, Suzanne Wright of Oregon City, Oregon, Joni Fields and her husband, Dan of Shorewood, Minnesota and Jan Eymann-McConville and her husband, Tim of Verona, Wisconsin; five grandchildren, Jenny, Stephanie, Leanna, Tyler and Kolby. Don is also survived by his sister, Marilyn Hanna and her husband, Tom of Kensett; as well as other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Lewis and John; and two sisters, Pat and Norma.

Don's family would like to say a special thanks to the Dr's. Nurses and staff at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa West Campus in the Dialysis Center.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Edward R. Stadler, 50

February 8, 2007

Edward R. Stadler, age 50, of Fairmont, Minnesota, and formerly of Medford, Minnesota, died on Monday, January 29, 2007, at the Fairmont Medical Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, February 2, 2007, at the Christ the King Catholic Church in Medford, with Fr. Clayton Haberman, officiating. Interment was in the Resurrection Cemetery in Medford.

Visitation was held at the Lakeview Funeral Home in Fairmont on Wednesday, from 4-7:00 p.m. Visitation was also held at the Parker Kohl Funeral Home in Faribault on Thursday and continued Friday for one hour prior to the services at the church. A prayer service was held on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to the American Cancer Society, Stadler Family Relay for Life Team.

Ed was an industrial arts teacher at the Forest City High School for a short time.

The Parker Kohl Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2007 Forest City Summit

Novella Bredbenner, 89

February 6, 2007

Novella Bredbenner, age 89, of Klemme, Iowa, most recently a resident of the Concord Care Center, Garner, died on Tuesday, January 30, 2007, at the Concord Care Center in Garner. 

Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 1, at the Klemme United Methodist Church. Burial will be in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Andrews Funeral Home, Klemme. Memorials are suggested to the Klemme United Methodist Church, Kappa Phi Club, Hancock County Historical Society, Izaak Walton League, or charity of the donor's choice.

Novella Dorothy Bredbenner, the only daughter of Clark and Martha (Lau) Bredbenner, was born on September 8, 1917, in Klemme, in the home originally owned by H.J. Klemme, for whom the town was named. In the Klemme Public School, she participated in declamatory contests, school plays and band and graduated as valedictorian of the Class of 1934.

The church has always been an important part of Novella's life. She was confirmed in the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1928 and was active in Standard Bearers and Epworth League. She taught Sunday School and Bible School and served as director of Bible School and associate director of Camp Quest. In the Klemme United Methodist Church, she was active in the United Methodist Women, the Administrative Council, and the Iowa Annual Conference in many ways. She attended World Methodist Conferences in places as diverse as Singapore, England and Kenya. While in college, Novella joined the Kappa Phi Club, a religious organization for university women, and held many offices locally and nationally. Starting in 1939 she attended many of the National Kappa Phi Councils, often as council photographer. In 1988 she was selected national “Kappa Phi Sweetheart” of the year.

For many years Novella alternated teaching and attending college. In 1935 she started her college education at Iowa State Teachers College (now UNI). At age 18, she began her teaching career at Riverside School, two miles south of Klemme, with a salary of $50 a month. In the “terrible winter of 1936,” she tramped two miles daily through the deep snow to and from school. The road down the big hill to the school was closed to traffic most of the winter, but Novella plowed through it on foot, even at thirty degrees below zero! Those were the days when the teacher not only taught school, but also built the fire, swept the floor, washed the blackboard, etc. But being young had its advantages. Even as the teacher, she enjoyed playing ball with her students, skating on the river ice, sliding downhill on a toboggan in a snowstorm, or chasing butterflies in the spring. In addition to Riverside School, she later taught at Allison, and then at Brooks, Greenwood and Maple Grove Schools in Des Moines.

Novella received her two-year elementary degree in 1939, and was back at Cedar Falls in 1944 for her junior year of college. She completed her B.A. in elementary education and graduated with honors from ISTC in 1948. In 1954, Novella was awarded a “Ding” Darling Fellowship from the National Wildlife Federation and completed her Masters Degree at Cedar Falls. Her thesis was even printed for distribution by the Iowa Conservation Commission. After returning to Des Moines, she taught elementary science and social studies for 27 years at Hubbell School. “Miss Bredbenner” saw many different educational trends come and go, but she always enjoyed working with students.

Butterfly collecting, genealogy, photography, and traveling were among her hobbies.  Novella and her mother, Martha enjoyed many trips together. She traveled to all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and many countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and the Pacific Islands. She shared slide shows and artifacts from her travels with her students, with church mission study and women's groups, and with many other organizations.

In Des Moines, Novella was active in many school, church and community organizations, the Des Moines Science Teachers' Club, the Iowa Association of Science Teachers, the National Education Association, the National Science Teachers' Association, First United Methodist Church of Des Moines, the Des Moines Area Religious Council, the “Ding” Darling Chapter of the Izaak Walton League, and the Des Moines Area Church Women United.

When Novella retired after 42 years of teaching, then Governor Robert Ray attended the celebration as his daughters had been her students. When Novella retired to her house in Klemme, she wasn't content to take it easy. She spent many hours assisting with the book on Klemme history for the Klemme Centennial in 1989. She participated in the Hancock County Genealogical Society, Hancock County Historical Society, Federated Women's Club, Federated Garden Club, and the Klemme United Methodist Church.

Although she was an only child, Novella embraced her extended family, aunts, uncles and close or distant cousins were always very important to her. She enjoyed gathering with family for the holidays, at Lau reunions in eastern Iowa, or for simple Sunday dinners with the cousins. Her many close friends became “family” as well. 

She will long be remembered for her positive disposition, her kindness to all, her generosity to others, and her unfailing service to her church and community. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; but is survived by numerous loving friends and extended family members.
© 2007 Forest City Summit