Inga A. Bolstad, 94

March 12, 2008

Inga A. (Kloster) Bolstad, 94, of Lake Mills, died on Monday, March 3, 2008, at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City.

Funeral servicew were held on Saturday, March 8, at the Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills, with Pastor W. Paul Woog officiating.

Visitation was held on Friday evening at the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in Lake Mills and again one hour prior to services at the church. Burial was in the Salem Memorial Cemetery in Lake Mills.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Jeffrey W. Doyle, 46

March 12, 2008

Jeffrey W. Doyle, 46, of rural Garner, died on Monday, March 3, 2008, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Barb Spaulding and Rev. Wendy Johannesen officiating. Burial was in the Olena Mound Cemetery in Buffalo Center. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Jeffrey William Doyle, the son of William and Connie (Forthun) Doyle, was born November 30, 1961 at Albert Lea, Minnesota. He was confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Buffalo Center. He attended Albert Lea schools and graduated from Buffalo Center-Rake High School in 1980. During his high school years, he worked on the farm for Howard and Elaine Michaelson. Following high school, he continued his education at NIACC in Mason City. After college, he was employed by CEI Enterprise in Cedar Rapids and later at Iowa Mold and Tooling in Garner.  

On June 18, 1983, he married LeAnn Hagenson at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Buffalo Center. They lived in Miller until moving to their current home northwest of Garner where they were raising their boys, Eric (20) and Drew (15). In 1989, Jeff began his own business, Doyle's Welding and Repair. He enjoyed camping, snowmobiling and visiting with his customers. He also enjoyed taking a dear friend to appointments and going to the annual Windstock Country Music Festival at Winsted, Minnesota. Special times for Jeff included teaching his boys his trade of welding and seeing them enjoy four-wheeling, snowmobiling and fishing.

He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. Jeff served for many years on the Hancock County Zoning Board and was currently on the Hancock County Conservation Board.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, LeAnn of Garner; sons, Eric of Mason City and Drew of Garner; a sister, Kim (Duke) Powell of Mason City; four half-brothers, Chad Doyle of Buffalo Center, Cory (Erica) Doyle of Ireton and  Ryan and Kyle Doyle of Minneapolis, Minnesota; his parents-in-law, Keith and Shirley Hagenson of Buffalo Center; sisters-in-law, Sheryl (Kim) Davids of Buffalo Center and Vicki (Rodney) Wubben of Buffalo Center; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents; a half-brother, Brandon Doyle; paternal grandparents, Richard “Claire” and Helen Doyle; maternal grandfather, Oral Forthun; maternal grandmother, Hazel Forthun Berhow; and maternal step-grandfather, Bud Berhow.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Eva Mae Anderson, 77

March 12, 2008

Eva Mae Anderson, 77, died on Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at the Good Samaritan Center in Indianola.

The family received friends Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are being directed to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, American Diabetes Association or the Alzheimer's Association.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 8, at the Iles Funeral Homes-Grandview Park Chapel. Burial will be in the Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Eva Mae was born in Forest City on June 6, 1930 to Emery and Hannah Brown. She married Arden Anderson and lived in Des Moines most of her life. She was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church. She enjoyed camping and traveling, especially to Branson, Missouri. She loved spending time with her family.

Eva Mae is survived by her son, Greg (Sherrill) Anderson of Des Moines; daughter, Juleen (Fred) Jones of Indianola; eight grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; one brother and two sisters.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arden and son, Dan.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Stephenie K. Abrahamson-Baxter, 47

March 12, 2008

Stephenie K. Abrahamson-Baxter, age 47, of Clear Lake, died on Thursday, March 6, 2008, at her home in Clear Lake.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Fertile Lutheran Church in Fertile, Iowa on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at 11:30 a.m., with Lay Pastor David Halverson officiating. Visitation was held from 5-7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, March 11 at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City. Inurnment will be in the spring in Oakland Cemetery in Forest City.  

Stephenie Kay Abrahamson-Baxter, was born in Forest City on December 8, 1960, the daughter of Steven and Lannie (Hanson) Abrahamson. She received her elementary education in Forest City and graduated from high school in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She continued her education in Minneapolis, pursuing a degree in accounting. She later worked for Ron Erdman Accounting in Forest City for a time. 

Stephenie lived and worked in Minneapolis for many years as well as in other small communities in the Midwest but always considered Fertile her home. She was a bright young woman with a passion for history who could spend hours absorbed in the pages of Smithsonian Magazine or National Geographic. An adventurous free-spirited individual, Stephenie lived life to its fullest - whether that was a spontaneous trip across country or a long ride on a Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Stephenie is survived by 2 daughters, Sheyanne (Stanley II) Schultz of Clear Lake and grandson, Ethan Awe; Sara Jo O'Connell-Dobbins of Minneapolis, Minnesota and grandchildren, Sadrea, Sade & Frank. Also surviving is her father, Steve (Roberta) Abrahamson of Forest City; step-father, Earl Kilen of Fertile; three brothers, Jerry (Julie) Abrahamson of Fremont, Nebraska, Ken (Sharon) Kimes, presently stationed in Virginia and Timothy (Shary) Kimes of Fremont, Nebraska; her aunt, Sonia (Gerald) Dyste of Forest City; special friend, Drew Arndt of Clear Lake; goddaughter, Holly Lovick; and many nieces and nephews.

Stephenie was preceded in death by her mother and her grandparents, Tom and Ella Abrahamson and Lenus and Kate Hanson.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Rosella Hrubes, 89

March 11, 2008

Rosella Hrubes, 89, of Britt, died on Saturday, March 8, 2008, at the La Porte City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Funeral services were 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, March 11, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt, with Fr. Henry Huber officiating.  Burial was in St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Duncan. Visitation was held at the Cataldo Funeral Home in Britt.

Rosella Ethel Hrubes, the daughter of William and Ethel (Johnson) Morris, was born March 31, 1918 at Britt. She attended the rural schools south of Britt and graduated from Britt High School in 1934. She continued her education at Britt Junior College graduating in 1936. Rosella then taught in the rural schools of Erin Township in Hancock County for three years. On November 22, 1939 she was married to Elmer Joseph Hrubes at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan. They farmed north of Garner, Thompson, Duncan, Forest City and for 29 years in the Crystal Lake area. In 1966, they moved into Britt and retired from active farming in 1984. In 1998, Rosella became a resident of the La Porte City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She enjoyed flowers, baking, gardening and working on the farm.

She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt and the Jolly Circle Club.

She is survived by her son, Marvin (Sue) Hrubes of La Porte City; daughter-in-law, Kathy (Joe) Gibbs of Garner; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Elmer on September 2, 1989; and her son, Roger, March 20, 1975.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Evelyn Allen, 86

March 11, 2008

Evelyn E. Allen, 86, of Clarion, passed away on Saturday, March 8, 2008, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Thursday, March 13, 2008, at the Clarion Church of Christ with Pastor Tim Platt officiating. Burial will take place in Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion, Iowa.

Visitation for Evelyn E. Allen will be held from 5-7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at the Ewing Funeral Home, in Clarion and continue one hour prior to services at the church.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Rose Gerdes, 78

March 26, 2008

Rose A. Gerdes, 78, of Britt, passed away on Monday, March 10, 2008, at her home in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 14, at 1:00 p.m., at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt, with Rev. Brian Delleart officiating. Burial will be in the Bingham Township Cemetery near Woden, at 3:00 p.m. Visitation was held on Thursday, March 13, from 5-7:00 p.m., at the Ewing Funeral Chapel in Britt and one hour prior to the services at the church.

Rose Agatha Studer, was born on November 5, 1929, daughter of Alphonse and Isabelle (Haverly) Studer in Wesley, Iowa. Rose attended school in Wesley graduating from the Wesley High School.

Rose married Ernest (Wink) Gerdes on December 28, 1949 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Wesley. Rose and Wink lived all of their married life in Woden, Iowa. They had six sons, Roger, Robert, David, Mark, Richard and Thomas. Rose worked at Winnebago Industries in Forest City, owned and operated Rose's Retail and Resale in Woden and then worked at Goodnature's in Garner.

Rose was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and sang with the Sweet Adeline's for a number of years. She loved spending time with her family and friends.

Rose is survived by Roger and Rosie Gerdes of Pleasant Hope, Missouri, Bob and Marcia Gerdes of Woden, Dave and Cyndi Gerdes of Kanawha, daughter-in-law, Paula Gerdes of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and Rick Gerdes of Dubuque, Iowa. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jamie (Lei) Kaauamo and Keikai; Nick (Lindsey) Gerdes and Kaleb; Angie Gerdes; Rob (Angie) Gerdes Taylor and Jenna; Jill (Alex) Schutjer and Drew and Sam; Chad (Kim) Gerdes and Karissa and Cade; Jesse (Courtney) Gerdes and Drew; Lucas, Logan and Grace; Jason (Rhonda) Gerdes and Austin and Landon and Matt Gerdes; sisters, Mae (Dick) Haiden and Julie Jarvis; brother, Gerald Studer; sisters-in-law, Betty (Don) May, Leota Gerdes and Barbara Shipman; and many nieces and nephews.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wink; sons, Thomas at birth and Mark in 2004; daughter-in-law, Janet Gerdes in 1991; sisters, Phyllis Kelch, Elaine Downs, Rita Young; brothers-in-law, George Kelch, Ed Downs, Leo Young and Ralph Jarvis.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Lawrence Leibrand, 88

March 18, 2008

Lawrence Leibrand, age 88, of Buffalo Center, died on Thursday, March 13, 2008, at the St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Funeral service was held on Sunday, March 16, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City. Visitation was held an hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the spring in the Graceland Cemetery in Buffalo Center.

Lawrence Henry “Saint” Leibrand, was born on November 29, 1920 at Mountain Lake, Minnesota, a son of Lee W. and Grace (Asmus) Leibrand. In 1928, the family moved to Spirit Lake for a short time before moving to Buffalo Center in 1929. Lawrence was baptized and confirmed in the Reformed Church of Buffalo Center. He graduated from Buffalo Center High School with the class of 1938.

Lawrence, along with his father, Lee, ran a dairy in Buffalo Center for a few years. On October 16, 1944, he was united in marriage to Mildred Heitland in Forest City. The couple made their home in Buffalo Center where they purchased the Ice Cream Shop in April of 1945 and ran it for a year.

Lawrence then went to work for the W. E. Ley Ford dealership in Lakota as a salesman. In 1964, he was selected as a top salesman among the nation's leading Ford dealerships. He later sold feed for the Kerber Milling Company of Emmetsburg.

Lawrence loved baseball and was a serious fan of the New York Yankees. He enjoyed buying homes and remodeling them. Millie passed away on January 5, 1986. Lawrence married Karen Hanson Blanshan Gordon in 1989. She passed away on July 19, 2005.

Lawrence is survived by two step-sons, Douglas Blanshan of Albert Lea, Minnesota and David Blanshan of Buffalo Center; one step-daughter, Ann Gordon Wenthold and her husband, Chuck of Jefferson; three step-grandchildren, Jessica, Adam and Ashley Blanshan of Albert Lea, Minnesota; cousins, Elmer “Shorty” Leibrand of Buffalo Center and Dorothy Heesch of Thompson; sister-in-law, Ruth Leibrand of Forest City; nephew, Les (Belinda) Leibrand of Crystal Lake; nieces, Nancy (Tom) Bugler of Frederick, Maryland, Lorrie (Mike) Tritch of Indianola, Iowa and Patti Jo Leibrand of Fort Dodge, Iowa; 12 great-nieces and nephews and 8 great-great-nieces and nephews.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents; both wives; brother, Harold Leibrand in 1994 and sister, Lucille Burma in 2007.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Elsie Vavrik, 91

March 26, 2008

Elsie E. Vavrik, 91, of Garner, died on Monday, March 17, 2008, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt.

Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan, with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating. Burial was in the St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Duncan. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Elsie Eleanor Vavrik, the daughter of Jilji and Rosa (Hejlik) Hrubes, was born August 29, 1916 on the home farm in Hancock County. She attended rural school in Garfield Township. On October 11, 1938 she was married to Frank Vavrik at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan. To this union three children were born, Marge, Francis “Sonny” and Dort. Frank and Elsie farmed all of their married life near Hayfield. Elsie worked at various restaurants over the years. 

As a young girl, music influenced her life. At the age of 16, Elsie began playing the piano in the family band. She later joined Ray's Accordion Band and the Jolly Fisherman, entertaining throughout the Midwest. She also sang and played the organ at various nursing homes in the area.

She was a member of the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church where she was the church organist for many years, Rosary Society and the Catholic Workman FCSLA Branch W51.

Elsie is survived by her  daughters, Marge (Edward) Gutzmer of Mason City and Dort Lehmann (fiancée', Tom Bock) of Belmond; grandchildren, Mark (Joan) Gutzmer, Michelle (Kent) Grandgenett, Kevin (Angela) Gutzmer, Stephanie (Phil) Colon, Tami (Greg) Torrance and Jill Lehmann; great-grandchildren, Helena, August, Daniel, Emilee and Thomas Gutzmer, Max and Megan Grandgenett, Sloane and Kennidea Hubler, Carson Torrance, Oliver and Casey Colon; sisters, Helen Malek and Mary Trca; brothers, Joe (Leona) Hrubes, Clarence (Joan) Hrubes; and sisters-in-law, Margaret Hrubes, Alice Hrubes, Lillian Malek and Marge (Louis) Vavrik.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank; son, Francis, “Sonny”; her parents; and numerous other relatives. 

We will miss you mom, grandma, but your musical talents live within us. Now you can play the “Grand” piano of Heaven.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Eugene F. Nicholson, 93

March 25, 2008

Eugene “Gene” Nicholson, 93, formerly of Iowa, died on Monday, March 17, 2008, at his residence.

A memorial service was held on Friday, March 21, at the Christ Our Hope Presbyterian Church in Wake Forest, North Carolina, with Rev. Scott Cook and Rev. Chris Bower officiating. Memorial contributions may be given to the Christ Our Hope Presbyterian Church in America, Wake Forest, North Carolina. The Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center was in charge of the arrangements.

Mr. Nicholson was born on June 11, 1914 in Little Cedar, Iowa, the only child of the late Mary Cross Nicholson and Fred Nicholson. He graduated from the Little Cedar High School. Mr. Nicholson was a veteran of the United States Army serving in WW II in General Patton's 3rd Army as a motor pool mechanic. He married Rachel Gambell who preceded him in death in 1968.

He was employed as an auto mechanic, appliance repairman, and a foreman designing lampshades and also in later years as a custodian.

In 1972 he married Doris Spitler Floy. He lived 91 years in the state of Iowa, in Forest City, Clear Lake, Clarion and Grinnell, before moving to Wake Forest, North Carolina in 2005.

He was a much loved and well respected member of Christ Our Hope PCA Church in Wake Forest.

Mr. Nicholson is survived by his wife of 35 years, Doris Nicholson; sons, Gary Nicholson of Buckeye, Arizona and Greg Nicholson of Columbus, Ohio; two daughters, Gail Wallace of La Vergne, Tennessee and Gloria Miner and husband, Ken of Grinnell, Iowa; two step-daughters, Liana Anderson and husband, C. Michael of Wake Forest, North Carolina and Mary Locke and husband, Rodney of Glenwood, Iowa; seven grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and seven step-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law; great-granddaughter; step-grandson; and two step-great-grandsons.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Orvin H. Schnebly, 73

March 25, 2008

Orvin "Orv" Schnebly, passed away on Monday, March 17, 2008, in Downey, California, from inoperable brain cancer diagnosed just a month before his death.

A celebration of Life was held on Saturday, March 22, at the United Methodist Church in Placentia, California for his family members and friends in California. Another memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Church in Forest City on April 12, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. for friends and family in Iowa. Burial will follow in the Forest Home Cemetery in Leland (in the family plot, next to son Kelly). Following the burial, a reception will be at the United Methodist Church.

Orvin was preceded in death by his youngest son, Kelly Leigh; father, Oliver Henry Schnebly; mother, Eva Belle Goodrich Schnebly; and sister, Zelma Schnebly Petersen.

He is survived by older sisters, Winona Schnebly Schulz and Wanita Schnebly Priebe; younger brothers, Russell & Roger Schnebly; former wife and mother of his children, Wanda Ann Carlson Schnebly; sons, Kirby Layne and Kyle Lynne and daughter, Kerry LeAnn (The “KLS Kids”); three grandchildren, Kelly Leigh, Brandon Layne & Brittany Marie Schnebly; their mother, Rachael Schnebly, his very special companion in life for the past seven years, Martha “Marty” Drury; and numerous relatives and friends.

Born on January 1, 1935 in Kanawha, Iowa, Orvin grew up in Hayfield, Iowa, and graduated from the Hayfield High School in 1952. He was an all-sports star and excelled in basketball. With “springs for legs” and standing just under 5'11", Orvin played point-guard but jumped as center to start the games because he could 2-hand slam-dunk a basketball from a standing position. He averaged over 20 points per game during his high school playing days.

In November of 1954, Orv and his brother, Russ (who were both under the legal age of 21 at the time & needed their dad to sign for the sales tax license) purchased the Phillips 66 station in Forest City. Orv and Russ enjoyed their “Schnebly Brothers 66” partnership for approximately 25 years. As many will remember, this was a true service station where, with a fill-up, you could have your oil & fluids checked, windows washed, tires checked and have your car vacuumed too! After their partnership ended, Russ and his son, Rick ran the station. Last year, after 53 years of business, Russ sold “Schnebly's Service and Repair” (a.k.a. “Schnebly Brothers 66”) to his son, Rick. Russ has stayed on to help Rick with the many aspects of running a business.

In August of 1955, Orvin married Wanda Ann Carlson of Forest City and they had four children, Kirby, Kerry, Kyle and Kelly. Orvin was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Forest City, and especially enjoyed singing with the choir. He was a community booster serving in many volunteer efforts and he was especially active with the Forest City Lions Club.

On June 8, 1964, Orvin and Wanda's son, Kelly Leigh was born. Following his birth, he suffered irreparable brain damage that left him profoundly retarded and physically impaired. Kelly died on April 14, 1984, at age 19. Wanda & Orvin turned this tragedy into a blessing for many others with similar impairments. In 1968, with son, Kelly and three other handicapped children, a day care center was started in their home. The “WEE ARC CENTER” grew from their family room to the many facilities now operating under the “Krysilis” name. In past years, these programs were named “Winnebago Handicapped Services” and “North Central Human Services.”

Today, Krysilis is the second largest employer in Forest City and serves the needs of many disabled children and adults. Three of the homes built in Forest City after Kelly's death are on Kelly's Court, a street named as a tribute to Kelly and to Orvin and Wanda's tireless work for the disabled. Orvin & Wanda were also founding members of Handicap Village in Clear Lake. This program is now known as Opportunity Village. Many are familiar with Wanda's work on a local, statewide and national level, all with constant support from Orvin.

In 1978, Orvin and Wanda moved to Ames, Iowa where they owned & operated the Singer Sewing Center. In 1981, after his separation from Wanda, Orvin moved to Downey, California. He and Wanda, who had also moved to Downey, remained close friends. Together they shared in the lives of their children and grandchildren. There was nothing Orvin enjoyed more than watching his three grandchildren, Kelly, Brandon & Brittany, play baseball & softball. Starting with T-Ball when they were barely strong enough to swing a bat and throughout the following two decades of school and community games he cheered endlessly at their numerous games and tournaments.

For the last 26 years, Orvin worked at and eventually bought A-Rodgers Vacuum and Sewing Center. For the past six years, he worked there with Marty, also his business partner, until his cancer was diagnosed a month ago. Orv's customers affectionately referred to him as "Mr. Rodgers" because he was such a kind and caring businessman, friend and overall good person.

After living such a full and blessed life, in the presence of Marty, Kirby, Kerry, Wanda, niece, Traci Cox, and grandson, Kelly, Orvin died peacefully at 11:10 p.m. on March 17 at his & Marty's home in Downey, California. May God Bless father, grandfather, husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend & companion Orvin Schnebly eternally! He was a blessing to all of us.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Kenneth R. Brager, 83

March 25, 2008

Kenneth R. Brager, age 83, of Forest City, died on Tuesday, March 18, 2008, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 22, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Pastor Barb Spaulding officiating. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City. Visitation was held on Friday, March 21, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City and an hour prior to the service at the church.

Kenneth R. Brager, the son of Willard and Velma (Hollingsworth) Brager, was born on October 4, 1924 at Ventura. He was baptized and confirmed at the Ellington Prairie Lutheran Church near Miller. He attended Ventura Community School and graduated from the Ventura High School in 1942.

On June 7, 1947, he was united in marriage to Althea Hanna at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Ken farmed in the Buffalo Center vicinity for approximately 20 years. The family later moved to Forest City where Ken was employed at Winnebago Industries until he retired in 1987. Ken and Althea wintered in Florida, Arizona and Texas until the later years.

Ken and Althea enjoyed many exciting games of ping pong and pool, besides card games with friends and relatives. Ken was an avid sports fan and enjoyed working with wood for family and friends.

Ken is survived by his wife, Althea of Forest City; daughter, Joline Freisinger and husband, Peter of La Crosse, Wisconsin; son, Douglas Brager and wife, Patresa of Forest City, Illinois; two granddaughters, Kristine Freisinger Marzetta and husband, Dean of Fairfax, Virginia and Brooke Brager of Ft. Hood, Texas; grandson, Benjamin Brager of Bloomington, Illinois; two brothers, Marvin and Larry Brager; two sisters, Darlene Wells and husband, Derwood and Venita Statser.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Jonathan Brager; brother, Ronald Brager; brother-in-laws, Earl Schwisow and Jack Statser; and sister-in-law, Gina Brager.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Ruth Bolie, 75

March 25, 2008

Ruth Bolie, age 75, of Thompson, passed away on Thursday, March 20, 2008, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills.

Her funeral ceremony was held on Monday, at the Methodist Church in Thompson, with Pastor Shannon Pascual. Burial followed the luncheon at the Buffalo Township Cemetery, south of Titonka. Visitation hours were held on Sunday at the Winter Funeral Home in Thompson.

Ruth Ann Bolie, was born on April 5, 1932 to Fim and Etna (Sifert) Krull in Algona, Iowa. She was raised on farms near Cylinder and in Portland Township, Kossuth County, Iowa. She graduated from high school in Burt, Iowa. After graduation from high school, she attended Hamilton Business School in Mason City. 

Ruth married David Bolie at the Algona United Methodist Church on January 13, 1952. This union was blessed with five children, Dana, Renee, Douglas, David Jr. and Calvin. Ruth and David first farmed her father's farm in Kossuth County and later continued farming in Winnebago County. In 1992, they retired to their home in Thompson.

Ruth was very active in the Thompson United Methodist Church. She was a part of the county Democratic Party and was an active member of the VFW Auxiliary in Buffalo Center. She had been part of the Winnebago County Pork Producers. She was also active with Young at Heart and the Senior Citizen Center.

Ruth enjoyed sewing, quilting, and hand-crafts. In addition she enjoyed doing word puzzles and watching NASCAR on TV. She enjoyed gardening and was a prize-winning cook.

She is survived by her children, Dana Bolie and special friend, Lynne Lord of Mason City, Renee Struecker and husband, Gary of Burt, Iowa, Douglas Bolie and wife, Mary Beth of Algona, Iowa, David Bolie Jr. and wife, Cari of Forest City and Calvin Bolie of Thompson; her grandchildren, Troy Haayer of Coal Grove, Ohio, Jeremy Bolie and wife, Molly of San Diego, California, David Bolie III and Brittany Bolie of Buffalo Center; her step-grandchildren, Shelby, Shaelyn and Shayne Hoeft of Forest City; her sister, Joan Koestler and husband, Vern of Burt, Iowa; her brothers-in-law, Wayne Bolie of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Paul and wife, Shirley of Brea, California; her sisters-in-law, June Krull of Clear Lake, Rose of Lamoni, Iowa, Violet Bolie of Orange City, Iowa and Mary Jean Bolie of Cherokee, Iowa; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Leona Krull; sister, Fern and husband, Richard Tiggeman; brother, Lou Krull; three brothers-in-law, Faye, Weldon and Kenneth; two sisters-in-law, Donna and her husband, Marreld Millard and Erleen Bolie; and her beloved granddaughter, Sarah Bolie.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Kenneth H. Hagen, 89

March 25, 2008

Kenneth H. Hagen, 89, of Forest City, died on Thursday, March 20, 2008, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills.

Funeral services were held on Monday, March 24, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scarville, with Pastor Randy Baldwin officiating. Burial took place in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, rural Scarville, with military honors by the Otto Chose Post #235, Lake Mills. Visitation was held one hour prior to the services at the church on Monday.

Kenneth Harold Hagen, was born on April 22, 1918, to Thomas and Hilda (Knudtson) Hagen at Leland. He was baptized on June 30, 1918, at Winnebago Lutheran Church, Lake Mills, and later confirmed in the Christian faith affirming Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.

Kenneth graduated from the Lake Mills High School in 1936 and worked on the farm until he was inducted into the United States Army in 1942. During the following three years and five months, he participated in the battles of Sicily, Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Algeria, French Morocco, Ardennes, and Central Europe. Kenneth received seven bronze stars, the Good Conduct Medal, and was entitled to wear the European African Middle Eastern Theatre campaign ribbon and five overseas bars. He was honorably discharged from the Army on October 11, 1945. After his return home, Kenneth was active for many years in the V.F.W., especially enjoying being part of the Honor Guard.

Kenneth married Marjorie Amundson on October 28, 1949 at Forest City. Together they dairy farmed near Scarville until they retired in 1980 and moved to a home near Forest City. Kenneth was a devoted and faithful husband to Marjorie for 57 years.

He also was a faithful and dedicated member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scarville, where he actively served in many areas of ministry, especially the church council and choir. He also enjoyed singing in barber shop quartets and was active in the Christian Businessmen's prayer group in Forest City.

Kenneth always enjoyed farming, especially his dairy herd and tractor driving. Visiting friends and family was also special to Kenneth as well. He enjoyed meeting people as he walked in the Forest City auditorium, he kept in touch with relatives locally, and visited friends and relatives in Norway on seven occasions.

Kenneth is survived by his brother, Elvin Hagen and sister, Myrtle Hagen, both of Scarville; along with cousins, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Marjorie.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Robert K. Erickson, 79

April 1, 2008

Robert K. Erickson, age 79, of Forest City, died on Monday, March 24, 2008, at the Good Samaritan Care Center in Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 28, at the United Methodist Church in Forest City, with Pastor Jerald Swanberg officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City. Visitation was held on Thursday, March 27, at the funeral home and an hour prior to the services at the church.

Robert K. Erickson, was the youngest of four children born to Martin and Jennie (Nonnweiler) Erickson on April 16, 1928 in Crystal Valley, Iowa. He attended school in the Forest City school district. On October 14, 1950, Bob was united in marriage to Ione Nesset. To this union six daughters were born. The family made their home in Forest City.

Bob served in the United States Army from 1950-1952. During that time he served in the Korean Conflict from 1951-1952, in the ammunition dumps with the 461st Ordinance Ammunition Company in Wanjou at the 38th Parallel.

Bob spent his career working in the field of auto parts. Upon retirement, he drove a school bus for the Forest City School District. He was an avid sports fan and fisherman and cherished the time spent at the family's lake home near Mankato, Minnesota. He was a proud father of his girls and proud grandfather to their children and loved attending their activities.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church, the Forest City American Legion Post and the Leland VFW Post.

Bob was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2004. In May of 2007 he made his home at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City. He died there on Monday, March 24, 2008 at the age of 79 years.

Bob is survived by his wife, Ione of Forest City and six daughters and their spouses: Carol (Randy) Shirk of Forest City, Julie (Don) Olson of Thompson, Linda (Larry) Severson of Forest City, Sheila (Bob) Berger of Lake Mills, Jenifer (Claude) Thayer of Emmetsburg and Amy (Rod) Faulkner of Iowa City; 11 grandchildren: Mason (Amanda) Shirk and Clay Shirk, Joshua and Aaron Olson, Tiffany (Seth) Young and Marcus Severson, Jared, Jennie & Jordynn Finer and Bennett Berger, Brianna Faulkner; and a great-grandson soon to join the family; and one niece, Kathryn Kirkwood of Pennsylvania.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, James Erickson; sisters, Kathryn Boman and Norma Fraizer; and a nephew, Fred Fraizer.

The family suggests memorials be directed to the Hospice of North Iowa, The Good Samaritan Care Center, The Alzheimer's Association or the United Methodist Church.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Elliott E. Cooper Sr., 84

April 1, 2008

Elliott E. Cooper Sr., age 84, of Forest City, died on Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at the Good Samaritan Care Center in Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, March 31, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Pastor Barb Spaulding officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City, with Graveside Military Rites by the Forest City American Legion Post 121. Visitation was held on Sunday, March 30, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City and an hour prior to the services at the church.

Elliott E. Cooper, was born on January 15, 1924, to Carl and Mary (Williams) Cooper in New Hampton, Missouri. After graduating from the New Hampton High School in 1941 he attended the University of Michigan on a National Defense Scholarship. In 1943 he entered the United States Army and served until being Honorably Discharged in 1945. Notably he was the last living Winnebago County resident to have participated in the Normandy Invasion, and his Unit was one of the first United States Army Units to enter the Concentration Camp at Buchenwald.

He and Anna J. Oline were united in marriage on November 25, 1945 in Independence, Iowa. The couple then moved to Des Moines, Iowa where he completed his education at Drake University.

He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Drake University on May 30, 1949 and his Juris Doctor Degree from the School of Law at Drake University on January 28, 1951. He was admitted to the Bar on February 17, 1951. He and Anna then moved to Forest City where he practiced law until his retirement in 2005.

He was instrumental in creating Winnebago Industries, Inc. from the ruins of Modernistic Industries, and during his tenure as an Officer and Director saw the Company rise to membership in the Fortune 500. He founded what is now Manufacturers Bank and Trust Co.

He was a member and supporter of many local organizations, and was a member of the Forest City Lions Club for over 50 years. In 1958 he and Anna were chosen by the Lions of Iowa to be the Official Escort for Miss Iowa when the Iowa Hawkeyes played in the 1959 Rose Bowl Game.

Throughout his adult life he was an enthusiastic supporter of Drake University, and in 1969 he and Anna were named Drake University Parents of the Year.

He had a keen interest in American History especially Colonial America, the Revolutionary War, and the American Civil War. He was a supporter of a number of organizations dedicated to preserving those periods of our History, and constantly strived to improve his knowledge on those subjects.

He was an avid fisherman, flower gardener, woodworker, and baseball fan. He and Anna traveled the world yet nothing gave him more pleasure than simply being at home with his family.

He is survived by his wife of more than 62 years, Anna Cooper; sons, Elliott Cooper, Jr. of Forest City and Robert Cooper and wife, Donna of Forest City and her children, Katy and Derek Juhl; grandson, Michael Cooper and wife, Christie of Dallas, Texas and her daughter, Amber Davison and granddaughter, Amy Cooper of Mason City.

Those wishing to extend a memorial may direct it to the Good Samaritan Society of Forest City or the Hospice of North Iowa.
© 2008 Forest City Summit

Coleen Davison, 70

April 15, 2008

Coleen Margaret Davison, 70, of Mary Ester, Florida, left this earthly life to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 30, 2008.

Coleen taught school in Marble Rock and Garner after her graduation from NIACC. They moved to California where she worked for the Bank of America in Southern California for 20 years before moving to Florida, where she worked for Ferguson Insurance for the past 10 years.

Coleen was a very active parishioner at the St. Peter Catholic Church in Mary Ester, Florida. She was a loving wife, mother and mother-in-law, who will be missed by all of those who knew and loved her.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, April 2, at the Emerald Coast Funeral Home, Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, April 3, at the St. Peter Catholic Church, Mary Ester, Florida.

Coleen is survived by her husband of 44 years, Joseph; her son, Christopher and daughter-in-law, Kristi; three sisters, Michele (Robert) Horstman and Kathryn (Paul) Smith of Britt, Iowa and Mary Lewerenz of Santa Clara, California.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Winifred Hughes; and brother, Thomas, all of Britt, Iowa.
© 2008 Forest City Summit