DORIS MCMILLAN
Published: Wednesday, April 3, 2013    

Doris McMillan, 93, Cedar Rapids, died Monday, April 1, 2013. Services will be held Saturday afternoon at First Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids. Doris is the mother of Lyn (Rob) Courson of Belmond.

CHRIS COX
March 7, 1974  -  March 24, 2013

Christopher G. Cox, 39, Belmond, a long time employee of Fareway Food Stores in Iowa, most recently store manager in Belmond, died unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, March 24, 2013. Services were held March 29 at the Belmond United Methodist Church. Burial was in the Belmond Cemetery.  

Christopher Gary, the son of Gary and Jennifer (Edlin) Cox, was born March 7, 1974 at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego, CA. He was baptized at the Catholic Church in Ellsworth and confirmed at the Catholic Church in Iowa Falls. Chris attended school in Estherville and later Iowa Falls, graduating in 1992.

During his school years he was active in a variety of extra-curricular activities. Chris’s life long love of sports and his competitive spirit came early on and continued to blossom throughout his life. Chris had a yearning to be the best at whatever he was participating in. He was always looking to better himself and the competition. He loved the adrenaline rush of dirt track racing and was known to have the gas pedal hammered to the floor for entire laps of the race. Christopher was the 3rd generation of a long history of Cox family race car drivers. Chris looked forward to the camaraderie of hunting and enjoyed the pulse quickening burst as he and his family and friends made their way through the timber in pursuit of white tail deer. He absolutely loved the outdoors. Chris enjoyed golf, be it a quiet stroll on the fairways with Katie as they enjoyed their time together, or more spirited golf outings with his countless friends as they tried to one up each another. Chris was all about fun, and he loved to tease others.

Chris always wanted to make the lives of others better and brighter.  He strived to put the needs of others before his own. His vision of life, love for his fellow man and the world around him was boundless. This wonderful characteristic was truly a gift that made him the man that he was, an awesome trait that will be one of the greatest legacies.

Chris was united in marriage to Kathryn Marie Dennis on October 25, 1997 at the Ackley United Methodist Church. Their union was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Kylie and Emma. His three ladies were the most precious things in his life.

Chris’ yearning to manage his own grocery store commenced at age 16 when he started employment at the local Fareway Store in Iowa Falls.  This career journey evolved over the next 23 years as he climbed the company ladder through seven stores, including Iowa Falls, Atlantic, Perry, Eldora, Boone, Muscatine, and his present management position in Belmond, where the family landed four years ago. Chris and Katie never looked at their frequent moves as anything other than a new adventure and a chapter in their lives. Each move brought new friends and challenges and left strong bonds with countless friends. Chris, Katie, Kylie and Emma where excited to become a part of not only the Fareway family in Belmond, but the community as a whole as Chris' new role brought them new found comfort and closer to their roots and family.

Chris’ outgoing personality and strong leadership skills allowed him to melt right into the Fareway Store in Belmond. Chris believed in a strong work ethic and was not afraid to put in the effort and time to make the store better for his employees and their customers. He instilled the values of customer service in a warm and friendly environment in those who worked around him. He was always the first one to greet them when they came to work and would always find a moment to say hello and welcome the customers into the store, the majority of which he knew by name. Chris was always visioning what service or product they could add to the store to make it better. He was very much looking forward to making Belmond the final stop on his career journey and wanted to stay in Belmond.

Chris was a community minded man who felt it was important to give of his time, energies, and knowledge to whatever organizations he was involved in. He had recently completed his tenure as president of the Belmond Area Chamber of Commerce where he brought many new thoughts and ideas. Chris and Katie shared a passion for Belmond-Klemme Schools and were serving on the B-K Booster Klub Board. Chris and Katie's love of golf and their Belmond Country Club friends found Chris in the role of country club president. He was also a part of the Belmond Bowling Association. Throughout his years in his various communities, Chris was involved in each one in different ways. 

Though Chris spent a great deal of time in his professional role, nothing was more precious than the times spent with his life partner and love of his life, Katie, and his role of dad to Kylie and Emma. No matter how busy he was at the store, he would always make time to attend their extra-curricular activities. Chris and Katie loved to spend time with the girls and simply hang out as a family. Chris loved to take Katie out on “date night” and cherished their couple times together. He looked forward to family vacations and trips with friends. He and Katie recently returned from a trip to Las Vegas, and he was anxiously anticipating an early spring golf excursion to Kansas City with some close buddies. He looked forward to attending Iowa Hawkeye football games, and in more recent times with so many of his friends being Cyclones fans, Chris became somewhat of a convert. He was an avid Minnesota Vikings and Twins fan as well. Chris loved to hang out on Saturday nights in his “man cave” filled with sports memorabilia, and visiting with his buddies about last night’s ball games. His love for the Vike’s will be remembered through the tune of their fight song every time his cell phone rang. Having just celebrated his 39th birthday, one of his proudest moments was having daughter Kylie join him as an employee at the store the day of his birthday. His smile was as long as the aisles in the grocery store.

To say he was just a “people person” would be an understatement.  People were his life, whether it was his employees, his customers, his family or his friends. If one looked up the definition of “people person extraordinaire,” Chris Cox would be the ultimate. Chris thrived and was so comfortable around others. He loved to spend time in the backyard playing bean bags with his family, throwing a steak on the grill, or just relaxing over a Dewka.

Chris will be remembered for his sayings such as “How about them Apples”, “His Six P’s”, and other mottos. The one he lived by the most may have been, “Work hard and play harder!” As hard as he worked, his playing hard meant that Chris would have been a “superstar”.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Chris will remember his warm and welcoming personality, his friendly smile, the twinkle in his eyes, his willingness to serve, his boundless ambition, and his undying love for his family.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his great grandparents.

His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of his wife and life partner Katie, and their two daughters Kylie and Emma, all at home in Belmond; his parents Gary and Jennifer of Webster City; sisters Stacey (Tom) Klysen and their children McKayla and Maddie of Montevideo, MN, and Laura (Terry) Austin of Stratford; his mother and father-in-law Joe and Teresa Dennis of Wellsburg; brothers and sisters-in-law Joedy (Malena) Dennis and their kids Damon, Scott and Joebie of Alden, and Jesse (Kristi) Dennis and their children Tristen and Landen of Wellsburg; and extended family members Ken (Deb) Saul and their family of   Wellsburg, and Pam Groenwold and her children of Carlisle.

GLADYS SHAHAN
Published: Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Gladys I. Shahan, 95, Belmond, died March 28, 2013 in Oklahoma. Arrangements are pending at Dugger Funeral Home.

KEVIN KETCHUM
Published: Thursday, April 4, 2013

Kevin Ketchum, 56, Belmond, died Wednesday, April 3 at the hospital in Belmond following a battle with cancer. Visitation will be Friday from 4-7 p.m. at Andrews Funeral Home and one hour prior to his service Saturday. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 6 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Belmond.

M. DELORIS SIMKINS
January 24, 1921 - March 31, 2013  

Mary Deloris "Dory" (McVicker) Simkins was born January 24, 1921 In Eagle Grove, Iowa, the fourth child of Cassius Virgil and Lydia Anne (Badley) McVicker.

After graduating from Eagle Grove High School she taught elementary school for 10 years in Troy Township. Deloris graduated at the age of 17, so she had to wait a while before she started teaching. Her first year of teaching she had 22 pupils in nine grades, and her salary was $65/mo.

She started working at the Eagle Grove post office in the 1940s, earning 65¢ an hour. She worked her way up the ranks and served as postmaster at Eagle Grove for many years.

Deloris also cared for her mother for many years and after the death of her mother in 1963, she became an "Honorary Grandmother" to her nieces and nephews and their children and grandchildren.

Deloris married Clifford Simkins on March 16, 1974 in Eagle Grove, Iowa. Clifford passed away on September 9, 2000.

She spent her entire life in the Eagle Grove area until moving to Ft. Dodge in 2010. She enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing, camping, spending time with her extended family, antiques and entertaining in her home.

Deloris was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, White Shrine, D.A.R., Neighborhood Club, Antique Study Club, Troy Culture Club, and United Methodist Women, where she held a district office several times. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Eagle Grove, IA her entire life.
Deloris, 92, of Eagle Grove, passed away Sunday, March 31, 2013, at Paula J. Baber Hospice Home in Ft. Dodge, IA. She was also preceded in death by her parents; sister and brother-in-law, Rosetta & Frederick Schrader; brother, Lawrence McVicker; sister and brother-in-law, Irene & Ray Wardrip; sister and brother-in-law, LaVonne & Phillip Peterson; niece, Maryann McVicker and nephew, Roger Schrader

Survivors include: Step-son, Stephen (Donna) Simkins, step-grandson, Clayton Simkins, step-granddaughter, Carter Simkins, all of Sturgeon, MO. Deloris was very close to all her nieces and nephews: Karen Kline, Janice Peppmeier, Patricia Campbell, Shellie Mayne, Kenneth Wardrip, Susan Friday, Shari Peterson, Marilyn Peterson, and Margaret Schmidt, who all have fond memories of spending time on the farm with Aunt Dory where she taught them to bottle feed the lambs, drive the Farmall tractor and swing on the old bag swing. She is also survived by 17 great-nieces and nephews, and 21 great-great nieces and nephews, sister-in-law, Gladys McVicker of Milford, IA, and her special cat, "Kitty".

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday April 3, 2013, 1:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Eagle Grove with Pastor Mike Agnew officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to service times at the church. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Eagle Grove.
Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.

Posted on 4 April 2013

EARL (DOUG) NELSON
July 21, 1923 - April 7, 2013
Published: Tuesday, April 9, 2013    

Earl D. Nelson, 89, Belmond, died April 7, 2013 at the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 12 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Eagle Grove. A family burial will take place at the Goldfield Cemetery with military honors by the Goldfield American Legion. Visitation will be Thursday, April 11 from 4 to 7 p.m. A rosary will begin at 3:45 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Friday. Memorials may directed to the family at 123 Country Club Drive, Belmond.

Earl Douglas, the son of Earl H. and Ethel (Attebury) Nelson, was born July 21, 1923 in Goldfield. He graduated from Goldfield High school in 1941. Doug attended Eagle Grove Junior College and then Buena Vista College for a short period. On August 17, 1942 Doug married Mildred Ann Plunkett at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. This union was blessed with seven children. In 1943 Doug joined the U.S. Army, and was honorably discharged in January 1946. Doug was stationed in numerous locations, including Cape Cod with the Signal Corps and China with the 36th Flight Control Squadron where he received the Bronze Star. 

After his military service Doug worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in egg inspections at Manning, then farmed near Goldfield. Doug then worked for Standard Oil as a tank wagon agent. He then advanced to a jobber and owner of Nelson Petroleum Products. Doug retired in 1982 after selling his business which he built from scratch. He stayed busy in his community after retirement with numerous groups, including his cherished American Legion Post #370 in Goldfield. Doug was a member of the China, Burma and India Association. He served on Goldfield City Council, as a parish council member at Sacred Heart, and on the Goldfield School Board. He was president of the low income housing project for several years.

Doug enjoyed raising animals, especially his standard poodle Lute. He was an avid sports fan, rooting for his favorite team, the Iowa Hawkeyes. His favorite sport was basketball. In high school Doug’s nickname was Sparky because he was the team’s sparkplug. Doug adored waking up at their cabin at Lake Borden, MN. He enjoyed fishing and being one with nature. He enjoyed social events with friends and family. In 1969 Doug and Millie built a home on the south side of Lake Cornelia. Doug loved to have fun and joke around. He enjoyed every day of his life and proved it by water skiing on his 70th birthday. Doug loved golf and his circle of friends at Oakridge Golf Course in Goldfield. Doug was a kind-hearted, loving person and enjoyed uniting with the sick and elderly. 

Doug was preceded in death by his brother Marshall and wife Lucille, and sister Pauline Graves and husband Bud.

His memories and love will carry on in the hearts and minds of his family, including his wife Millie of Belmond; children Kathleen Nelson of Belmond, Michael (Kaaren) Nelson of Bettendorf, Susan (Dan) Girard of Belmond, Thomas (Rick Goodhead) Nelson of Tulsa, OK, Geoffrey (Barb) Nelson of Bettendorf, Gregory (Cathy) Nelson of Davenport, and Scott (Monica) Nelson of Davenport; grandchildren Kara (Fred) Vitt, Dana (Justin) Holstein, Chad (Meredith) Lenning, Melissa (Tim) Slapnicher, Mark (Stacy) Lenning, Collin Nelson, Seth Nelson, Blake Nelson, and Brett Nelson; and great grandchildren Kailey, Bryce and Zane Vitt; Jacob and Olivia Holstein; Malia, Micah and Amara Slapnicher; Carter and Grant Lenning;  Elizabeth and Natalee Lenning; Dylan and Ellie Lenning.

FRANCES BERNS
May 5, 1934 - April 1, 2013
Published: Tuesday, April 9, 2013    

Frances Berns, 78, Belmond, died April 1, 2013 at Iowa Specialty Hospital-Belmond. A memorial visitation was held April 8 at Dugger Funeral Home. Inurnment was in the Belmond Cemetery.

Frances Edith, the daughter of Ward Sr. and Ennis C. Allen Palmer, was born May 5, 1934 in Belmond. She grew up in Belmond and graduated from Belmond High School in 1952.

Frances was united in marriage to Robert W. Berns on July 11, 1952 in Wichita Falls, TX. They made their home on several U.S. Air Force Bases until returning to Belmond in 1955. Frances worked as a housewife and mother. She also worked at the Acco Seed Company mail department in Belmond and the Federal Land Bank in Clarion. In 1985 the couple moved to Belle Plaine where they would owned the very successful Sharkees Bait and Liquor Store. After Bob’s death in 2007 Fran continued to run the store. She sold the business in 2010 and returned to Belmond in 2011. She lived at the Belmond Community Apartments.

Frannie loved to sew and quilt, and had made numerous quilts over the years for family and friends. She was an avid reader and had a great sense of humor. She is remembered as a people person who lived her life as an open book and never knew a stranger.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; grandson Anthony; daughter-in-law Connie; two sisters; and a brother.    

Frances is survived by her children Robert (Roxanne) of Belmond, Brian (Kim) of Jefferson and Lisa Vileta of Marengo; grandchildren Brandon (Emily) and Mandi; sister-in-law Vernadean and Dallas Boatman of Portland, OR; brother-in-law Ted and Nancy Berns of Sierra Vista, AZ; and special family friend Bob Vileta.

KEVIN KETCHUM
June 7, 1956 - April 3, 2013
Published: Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Kevin L. Ketchum, 56, Belmond, died April 3, 2013 surrounded by his family at Iowa Specialty Hospital-Belmond following a year long battle with cancer. Mass of Christian Burial was held April 6 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Belmond. Burial was in the church cemetery near Belmond. 

Kevin Lynn, the son of Robert and Inez (Koenen) Ketchum, was born June 7, 1956 at Belmond. He grew up in Rowan and graduated from Belmond High School in 1974. During his school years Kevin was involved in a variety of activities, and especially excelled in wrestling.

Kevin was united in marriage to Marcia Spitler on July 21, 1979 at St. Francis Xavier. Their union was blessed with daughter Nikki and son Mark. They made their home in Belmond where they worked and raised their children.

Kevin was employed in maintenance at Eaton Corporation, then spent a number of years at Kinseth Plumbing and Heating before becoming an employee/owner at Packard Electric in Belmond.

Kevin enjoyed the people he worked with throughout the years. Foremost in his life was his family and the memories they had together. He and Marcia looked forward to raising their children, taking them on family vacations and creating lifetime memories. Kevin enjoyed spectating at his children’s activities and was their number one fan. In more recent times he couldn't wait to spend time with his granddaughter Lilly, who was the apple of his eye. 

Kevin relished times with people, whether at a family gathering or an afternoon on the golf course with friends. He loved to be outdoors and enjoyed all that nature had to offer. In the earlier years he might have been found climbing the banks of a creek checking his trap lines, or in a duck blind on a frosty fall morning. Another passion was fishing, whether an afternoon at Lake Cornelia or a more distant spot, Kevin was in his element. He enjoyed gardening, cooking, and was an avid woodworker. He was very meticulous, be it his well-manicured lawn or garden, or his spotless fishing boat.

Kevin was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers. He looked forward to Thursday evening “board meetings” with his family and friends at Cattleman’s, as well as new adventures. A favorite motto was, “You get out of life what you put into it.” 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandparents.

His memory will be cherished by his loving wife and life partner Marcia of Belmond; daughter Nikki (Matt) Olson and their daughter Lilly of Mason City; son Mark  Ketchum of Belmond; sisters Julie Ketchum of Belmond and Jody Ketchum (companion Steve Briola) of Aurora, CO; father and mother-in-law Jack and Mary Ann Spitler of Belmond; sister-in-law Pat (Mark) Fisher of Clarion; and brother-in-law Paul (Missy) Spitler of Belmond.

PATRICIA A. (Murray) HORTON
February 17, 1949 - April 7, 2013

Patricia A. Horton, 64, of Clarion passed away Sunday, April 7, 2013 at Mercy Medical Center – North Iowa in Mason City.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Patricia Horton will be held on Friday, April 12, 2013 at 10:00 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church, 608 2nd Avenue North East, in Clarion with Reverend Nils Hernandez officiating.  Burial will take place at the Iowa Veteran’s Cemetery in Van Meter at a later date.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2013 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East, in Clarion with a scriptural wake service beginning at 7:00 PM.

Patricia Ann (Murray) Horton was born February 17, 1949 in New Hampton to James and Florine (Nosbich) Murray.  She attended Catholic school through the 8th grade before graduating from Turkey Valley High School in 1967.

Following high school, Patricia attended the University of Northern Iowa where she graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in elementary education.  She later earned her Master’s degree in special education from Morningside College in Sioux City alongside raising four children.

Patricia began her teaching career in Burt, where she spent two years prior to another two years in Eagle Grove.  After receiving her advanced degree, she taught special education in the Britt school system until her retirement in May of 2012.  

Patricia was united in marriage to Gary Horton on June 30, 1972 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler.  Her family was incredibly important to her.  She especially loved spending time with her three grandchildren and taking family vacations each year.

Patricia was an active member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Clarion where she was a member of the Mom’s group and attended bible study.  She also loved to read and enjoyed attending book club at the library, going for walks with the dog, and jazzercise.  Patricia was also a member of the AAUW.  

Patricia is survived by her husband Gary of Clarion; children Laura (Shaun) Hogle and their daughters Grace and Emma of Pleasant Hill, Jennifer (Keith) Golly and their daughter Claire of Altoona, Kari Horton of North Liberty and David (Hanna Lunde) Horton of Oceanside, California; her sister Donna Murray of Perry and numerous other family members and friends.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Domestic/Sexual Assault Outreach Center in Fort Dodge.

JOLAINE BEVERLY TWEETEN
May 7, 1933 - February 11, 2013

A memorial service is planned for Jolaine Tweeten at 1 pm on Friday, April 12, 2013 at the Eagle Grove Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Jolaine died on February 11 at Morningside Heights Care Center in Marshall, MN. Jolaine Beverly Tweeten, the daughter of Oscar and Olga (Haugen) Jordahl was born May 7, 1933 in Lake Mills, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at the Winnebago Lutheran Church just a few miles from her home.

Jolaine graduated from Lake Mills High School and then enrolled in the Navy Hospital nursing program and received her nursing license in 1953. On August 16, 1953 Jolaine was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart Arden Tweeten.

She worked as an RN in the Forest City Hospital and farmed with Arden in Winnebago County until 1963 when they moved to a farm in Woolstock, Iowa. Jolaine was an active member of the Eagle Grove Evangelical Lutheran Church and she continued her nursing career at the Clarion Hospital.

Jolaine and Arden enjoyed flying small planes for both farm business and pleasure and she obtained her own pilot’s license. Jolaine was also active in Weight Watchers and at one time was the leader of three different groups.

She enjoyed sewing, knitting, gardening, cooking and spending time with her family and community. In December of 2003 she entered a new community at the Story City Bethany Manor Home. She later moved to a Sioux Falls assisted living facility.

In June of 2007 Jolaine became a resident in Marshall, MN at the Avera Morningside Heights Care Center. She received devoted and loving attention from Arden and all of her care givers.

Jolaine is survived by sons, Lon Tweeten and wife Darla of Woolstock, IA and Larry Tweeten and wife Jolene of Lexington, KY; daughters, Lori Afdem and husband David of Marshall, MN and Linda Luneburg and husband Steven of Winterset, IA, sister Noreen (Doug) Davis of Eagle, Idaho, and brother Owen (Trish) Jordahl of Thatcher, Arizona : 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Olga Jordahl, husband, Arden, brothers Burnell and Weldon Jordahl, and grandson, Brandon Tweeten.

 Arrangements by: Rehkamp & Horvath Funeral Directors Marshall, Minnesota www.rehkamp-horvath.com.

 Posted on 13 April 2013

EUGENE BLAU
March 4, 1930 - January 28, 2013

Gene Blau, age 82, formerly of Alexander, passed away Monday, January 28, 2013 at his home in Mesa, AZ.

Graveside services for Gene Blau will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, April 20, 2013 at the Alexander Cemetery east of Alexander. Pastor Art Zewert will officiate. Military graveside rites will be provided by the Belmond Honor Guard. A time of fellowship will follow at the Alexander Community Center.

Gene Edward Blau was born March 4, 1930 in Alexander, IA to Dick and Leona Blau. He was the eldest of seven children. One of his proudest accomplishments was serving his country in the United States Navy and United States Marines.

Gene was not one to sit idle and did not shy away from hard work. Throughout his career, he was employed in construction, agriculture, and at Winnebago Industries and Wal-Mart. He had a passion for dancing and spent man evenings doing so at places such as The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake and Val Air Ballroom in Des Moines. He also had a great appreciation for nice cars and spent many hours polishing those prize possessions. His retirement years were spent in the warmer climate of Arizona where he enjoyed coffee time with a group of friends every morning at McDonalds.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Marlin and Gary.

Gene is survived by his son, Derek; brothers Duane (Nancy) Blau, Granger, IN, and Richard (Sue) Blau, Alexander; sisters Madonna Brcka, Indian Wells, CA, and Sandra (Ken) Dorenkamp, Alexander; also several cousins and nieces and nephews.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Sandra Dorenkamp, 2611 N.E. Chevalia Court, Grimes, IA, 50111 to be given to Serenity Hospice in Mesa, AZ.

GERALD B. BLACKMAN
August 26, 1920 - April 12, 2013

Gerald B. Blackman, 92, of Clarion passed away Friday, April 12, 2013 at the Clarion Wellness and Rehabilitation Center.

Funeral services for Gerald Blackman will be held on Tuesday, April 16, 2013 at 10:30 AM at Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East, in Clarion with Mr. Stan Watne officiating.  Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 15, 2013 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East, in Clarion and will continue one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home on Tuesday.

Gerald Byron Blackman was born August 26, 1920 in Clarion to Byron Scott and Gladys Irene (Hanson) Blackman.  He was raised on the family farm south of Clarion, and graduated from Clarion High School in 1938.

After graduation, Gerald moved to Gary, Indiana where he worked in a steel mill, until he enlisted in the United States Navy on August 31, 1942 and his pre-flight training began on November 7, 1942 in Iowa City.  During his military career, he was a pilot, flying both the F6F Hellcat and F4U Corsair fighter planes during World War II.  Following the war, Gerald remained in the Naval Reserves until retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

Gerald was united in marriage to Bernice McPeak on February 22, 1947 and to this union, five children were born.

Gerald enjoyed flying, attending auctions, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Gerald is survived by his wife, Bernice Blackman of Clarion; children Harvey Blackman of Polk City, Lyle (Shirley) Blackman of Windsor Heights, Shirley Vanni of Granger, Jerry (Janet) Blackman of Clarion, and Bonnalee (Bill) Hocraffer of Bonner Springs, Kansas; grandchildren Bryant (Amanda) Blackman, Andrea Blackman, Conrad Sandahl, Stescey (Ron) Blum, Jesse (Natchaya) Blackman, Karl Blackman, Kelly Blackman, Ryan (Penni) Blackman, Rodney Blackman, Troy Vanni, Tyler Vanni, Brian Vanni, Travis (Christine) Hocraffer, Tricia (Kurtis) Goone; great-grandchildren Evan Blackman, Gabriella and Gillian Gaffney, Brice Sandahl, Jayce and Nevaeh Halfpop, Charlye James, Chaiya and Kiana Blackman, Stella and Nolan Blackman, Caitlyn and Tristin Hocraffer, and Anabelle and Karson Goone; sisters Margery Fasel of Valparaiso, Indiana and Luella Brotherton of Fallbrook, California; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. 

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, sister Phyllis Wald and brother Dennis Blackman.

The family suggests that memorial gifts may be directed to Wright County Public Health.

JUANITA A OLESON
August 9, 1913 - April 13, 2013

Juanita A. Oleson, age 99, of Dows passed away Saturday April 13, 2013 at the Wiseman Home in Williams. 

Funeral services for Juanita A. Oleson will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday April 19, 2013 at the Morgan United Methodist Church east of Dows. Pastor Judy Eilder will officiate. Burial will take place in the Morgan Township cemetery following the funeral service. 

Visitation for Juanita A. Oleson will be held from 10:00 A.M. until service-time on Friday at the church. Dugger Funeral Home, 100 North Lee Street in Dows is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made in Juanita A. Oleson’s name to the donor’s choice.

Juanita Alice, the daughter of Andrew and Maggie Stockdale McCollough was born August 9, 1913 in Hampton. She grew up on a farm near Hampton. Juanita graduated from the Hampton High School in 1930. Juanita after high school, went on to work many years for the D.O.T. office in Clarion. It was a position and job, in whick Juanita took great pride in. While working in Claron, Juanita was active in the Professional Women of Iowa.

Juanita was united in marriage to LuVerne Oleson on December 28, 1940 at Juanita’s parent’s home in Hamilton Township in Franklin County, Iowa. Together the couple farmed in Franklin county for many years. LuVerne passed away in 1999. Juanita spent the last eleven years under the exceptional care of Lori and Doug Wiseman in Willaims.

Juanita was a long-time member of the Morgan United Methodist Church. She served the church in several capacities, including Treasurer.

Juanita is survived by several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband LuVerne, a sister Fern McVicker and a brother Sterl McCollough.


DUGGER FUNERAL HOME
320 EAST STREET
LATIMER, IOWA 50452
(641) 579-6278
www.duggerfunerals.com

PHYLLIS ILENE WOODLEY
July 30, 1919 - April 12, 2013

Phyllis I. Woodley, 93, of Clarion passed away Friday, April 12, 2013 at the Clarion Wellness and Rehabilitation Center.

Funeral services for Phyllis Woodley will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at 10:30 AM at the Church of Christ, 420 North Main Street, in Clarion with Pastor Warren Curry officiating.  Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 16, 2013 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East, in Clarion and will continue one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.
Phyllis Ilene Woodley, the daughter of Floid and Estella (Bell) Bisgrove, was born on July 30, 1919 on the family farm north of Clarion.  She attended school in Clarion and graduated in 1937.  Phyllis immediately started working for the Wright County ACSC after high school, and was there for 38 years.

On February 11, 1946, Phyllis was united in marriage to Clair Woodley at the Little Brown Church in Nashua.  The couple was blessed with one son, Gary and the family lived on the farm until 1974.
Phyllis was a member of the Church of Christ in Clarion.

Phyllis is survived by her son Gary (Sally) of Clarion; grandchildren:  Grant (Nicole) Woodley of Grimes, Amber Schippers of Indianola and Rachelle (Adam) Freybler of Nevada; six great-grandchildren; along with nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Floid and Estella Bisgrove; her husband Clair Woodley; her sister Ila Mae Sebert; and her brother Cleo Bisgrove.

 Posted on 20 April 2013

ADA MARIE (Pletcher) PERRY
February 24, 1925 - April 19, 2013

Ada Marie (Pletcher) Perry, 88, of Clarion passed away Friday, April 19, 2013, at her home. 

Funeral services for Ada Perry will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, April 24, 2013, at the United Church of Christ Congregational, 121 3rd Avenue Northwest in Clarion with Pastor Bill Kem officiating.  

Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Tuesday, April 23, 2013, at the Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East in Clarion and will continue one hour prior to the service. 
Ada Marie Pletcher was born to Tillie Mabel Kepler and Walter Everett Pletcher on February 24, 1925, in Florence, Iowa. She and her twin sister, Ardith, were the youngest of seven children who lived on the family farm southwest of Clarion. Ada attended grade school in Dayton Township and graduated from Clarion High School in 1943, participating in choral groups and piano.

On May 23, 1945, Ada married her high school sweetheart, Bob Perry, in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Following Bob's discharge from the Army Air Corps, they returned to Clarion to live and raise their children, Kent, Connie, and Barbara. Ada was a homemaker and a member of the United Church of Christ Congregational Church. For many years, she served as a volunteer at the voting polls and worked with Mueller's Studio to take school pictures across the state. Ada enjoyed many talents and interests - cooking, sewing, gardening, reading (especially The New Yorker magazine), playing bridge, following golf and college sports, feeding the birds, and dancing to Big Band and Swing with Bob. She loved cats and gave a home to many that needed care and shelter. As a newlywed, Ada joined the annual Perry family vacation at Spirit Lake and continued the traditional trek to the lake, armed with cribbage board and fresh green beans and tomatoes from her garden. She will be remembered for her wit, humor, and wonderful laughter.

Ada was preceded in death by her husband Bob, her parents, brothers Raymond (Rab), Gerald, and sisters Doris King and Evelyn Maxine Pletcher. She is survived and loved by her sister Ardith (Dick) Madson, children Kent (Trish) Perry, Connie (Steve) Sutton, and Barbara (Kelly) Wicks, grandchildren Dustin Andersen, Erin (Michael) Perry, Quinn Wicks, and Josey Wicks, six great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and beloved cat, Baby.

JUANITA A OLESON
August 9, 1913 - April 13, 2013

Juanita A. Oleson, age 99, of Dows passed away Saturday April 13, 2013 at the Wiseman Home in Williams. 

Funeral services for Juanita A. Oleson will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday April 19, 2013 at the Morgan United Methodist Church east of Dows. Pastor Judy Eilder will officiate. Burial will take place in the Morgan Township cemetery following the funeral service. 

Visitation for Juanita A. Oleson will be held from 10:00 A.M. until service-time on Friday at the church. Dugger Funeral Home, 100 North Lee Street in Dows is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made in Juanita A. Oleson’s name to the donor’s choice.

Juanita Alice, the daughter of Andrew and Maggie Stockdale McCollough was born August 9, 1913 in Hampton. She grew up on a farm near Hampton. Juanita graduated from the Hampton High School in 1930. Juanita after high school, went on to work many years for the D.O.T. office in Clarion. It was a position and job, in whick Juanita took great pride in. While working in Claron, Juanita was active in the Professional Women of Iowa.

Juanita was united in marriage to LuVerne Oleson on December 28, 1940 at Juanita’s parent’s home in Hamilton Township in Franklin County, Iowa. Together the couple farmed in Franklin county for many years. LuVerne passed away in 1999. Juanita spent the last eleven years under the exceptional care of Lori and Doug Wiseman in Willaims.

Juanita was a long-time member of the Morgan United Methodist Church. She served the church in several capacities, including Treasurer.

Juanita is survived by several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband LuVerne, a sister Fern McVicker and a brother Sterl McCollough.


DUGGER FUNERAL HOME
320 EAST STREET
LATIMER, IOWA 50452
(641) 579-6278
www.duggerfunerals.com

RUTH J. (Daggett) SHEEHAN
March 18, 1915 - April 13, 2013
 
Ruth Sheehan, 98, of Clarion passed away Saturday, April 13, 2013 at the Clarion Wellness and Rehabilitation Center.

Funeral services for Ruth Sheehan will be held on Thursday, April 18, 2013 at 1:30 PM at First United Methodist Church, 201 3rd Avenue North East, in Clarion with Pastor Don Morrison officiating.  Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East, in Clarion and will continue one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Thursday.

Ruth Jeanette (Daggett) Sheehan was born March 18, 1915 to Harry and Nora (Gangstead) Daggett in Iowa City.  

Ruth graduated from Clarion High School in 1933 and worked for the Northwestern Bell telephone service in Clarion following high school.

Ruth was united in marriage to Paul R. Sheehan on June 17, 1939 at Spencer, Iowa.  Paul operated a laundry in Armstrong, Iowa and the couple later moved to Spencer, Des Moines and Iowa Falls before settling in Clarion in 1943.

Ruth worked at the Clarion Hospital for 26 years as a nurses aid, assisting in the delivery of countless babies, including her eldest granddaughter Anita, as well as working on the floor in the hospital until her retirement.

Ruth was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Clarion where she served on one of the circles.  She was also a past member of the Rebekah Lodge in Clarion.

Ruth enjoyed playing cards, especially 500, sponge painting, knitting and crocheting, having crocheted blankets for each of her children and grandchildren.  She also loved flower gardening, cooking and baking, especially kumla, kringla, and chicken and noodles from scratch.  Most of all, she took great pride in her family and enjoyed spending time with all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ruth is survived by her children Lanora (Don) Boggess of Cedar Falls, Jean (Ron) Brooks of Rowan, Pauline Michels of Des Moines, John (Candy) Sheehan of Clarion, Kathy Steen of Cedar Falls and Michael (Cynthia) Sheehan of Cedar Falls; grandchildren Anita (Jerry) Boland, Brenda (Jamie) Swanson, Chris Sheehan, James (Nickie) Michels, Kevin Brooks, Shelly (Mark) Murray, Matt (Jennifer) Sheehan, Teresa Olsen, Diana Michels, Gina (Kevin) Jaeger, Melissa (John) Sifert, Scott (Kimberly) Sheehan, Joe (Jennifer) Sheehan, Stephan (Monica) Brooks, Katie (Andy Meyer) Sheehan, Todd (Eileen) Boggess and Marc (Becky) Boggess; 35 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Darlene Daggett of Cedar Rapids; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, husband Paul in 1992, sons Dennis and Nick Sheehan, granddaughter Amanda Sheehan, grandson Jeff Steen, great-grandchild Jesse Lynn Swanson, sister Helen Bloomfield, brothers George and Floyd Daggett, daughter-in-law Linda Sheehan.

GARY TENOLD
November 21, 1941 - April 21, 2013
Published: Tuesday, April 30, 2013    

Gary R. Tenold, 71, died April 21, 2013 in Spirit Lake. Services were held April 25 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with burial in St. Margaret’s Cemetery.

Gary Robert, the son of Alton and Carma (Reinsmoen) Tenold, was born November 21, 1941 in Forest City. He graduated from Joice High School in 1959 and attended North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City, South Dakota State in Brookings, and graduated from the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science in Dallas, TX in 1963. He married DeEtta Schleusner on September 3, 1960, and to this union four children were born.

Gary served funeral homes in Oelwein and Fort Dodge before he purchased a funeral home in Spirit Lake, which he and Dee operated until 1980 when they moved to Belmond and purchased funeral homes there and in Klemme. They lived in Belmond until Gary retired in 2001. They moved back to Spirit Lake, but Gary could not stay retired. He began a part time relationship with Schuchert Funeral Home for the next several years. He loved the funeral business and the service he provided to thousands of families for over 45 years.

Gary was active in the Catholic Church by serving on the parish council and teaching religion classes. He was also a Eucharistic Minister and usher for many years. He was past president of the chamber of commerce, served six years on the Belmond Hospital Board of Trustees, and was an active member of the 3rd and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, serving two terms as Grand Knight. Gary enjoyed playing golf, working on the computer, and hunting and fishing with friends and family. He loved teaching his grandchildren how to hunt, and he especially liked building things in the wood shop for his family. The past six years Gary and Dee enjoyed getting out of the cold and being “Winter Texans.”

Preceding him in death were his grandson Wesley and brother-in-law Lyle Goll.

Surviving are his wife DeEtta of Spirit Lake; daughter Kim (Mark) Ingwersen and their children Dr. Laura Ingwersen of Spirit Lake and Sarah (Brandon) Fonken and son, Brayden of Jewell; son Dr. Scott (Dr. Lee) Tenold and their children Jake and Cole of Chippewa Falls, WI; daughter Kristi Funk and her fiancé Bruce of Woodbury, MN and her children Austin Eide of Spirit Lake and Garrett of Milford; son Dr. Steven Tenold and his children Mackenzie, Cael, Carson and Cade of Belmond; sister Gloria Goll of Klemme; and brother Arlyn (Judy) Tenold of Joice.

RUBY KLINEFELTER
June 9, 1923 - April 26, 2013
Published: Tuesday, April 30, 2013    

Ruby L. Klinefelter, 89, died peacefully on April 26, 2013 at Iowa Specialty Hospital - Belmond. Services were held April 29 at the Belmond United Methodist Church with burial in the Belmond Cemetery.

Ruby Leah was born in Liscomb on June 9, 1923 to Ella and Julius Wagoner. When she was two years old the family moved to Belmond where she grew up, attended school, and then raised her own family. She joined her parents in operating the Café & Bus Stop in 1945. Later she worked at Hokel’s Café, Lynn's Lounge, PSI and Super America. 

Ruby married E. R. (Shorty) Klinefelter on April 19, 1949. They had three children: Michael, Roland and Toni. In 1973 they bought the Mello-Maid Café and enjoyed operating it until retiring in 1976. Ruby loved to fish, golf, play bingo and cards. She liked to cook, bake and make jams and jelly for friends and neighbors. She cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren. She was a member of the United Methodist Church. She enjoyed participating in a local bowling league, playing with her poodles, and attending Mike’s football games.

She was preceded in death by her husband; an infant son; three sisters; three brothers; and a great grandchild.  

Ruby is survived by her son Michael (Marcia) of Shell Rock and daughter Toni (Jeff) Anderson of Belmond; grandchildren Erika (Brad), Josh (Megan), Blair (Beau), and Shelley (Todd); seven great-grandchildren; sister Patty Blau; and brother Lloyd Wagoner.

JOSE LUIS MARTINEZ
March 8, 1980 - April 21, 2013
Published: Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Jose “Chito” Luis Martinez, 33, Belmond, died April 21, 2013 as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Services were held April 26 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Belmond. Memorials may be directed to the family at Northwest Bank, 120 E. Main, Belmond.

Jose, the son of Jose “Joe” Renato and Olga (Alvarado) Martinez, was born March 8, 1980 in Nava Coahuila, Mexico. He attended school in Mexico through the 9th grade before moving with his family at age 16 to Britt. He later lived in Klemme and Goodell before making his home in Belmond.

Jose celebrated the union with his wife Soccorro Lopez on June 17, 2000. The couple later married in Garner that August. Their marriage was blessed with daughter Janeth and son Jose, Jr. They have raised their children in Belmond these many years. 

Jose had been employed for 14 years with Sparboe Farms in Goodell, then Hawkeye Pride in Corwith, and most recently with Centrum Valley Farms in Galt.   

Jose was a hardworking and dedicated employee. He was proud to help provide for the needs of his family. He enjoyed time relaxing with his family and friends. Jose looked forward to taking Janeth and Jose, Jr. fishing, a friendly game of Hangman, Tic Tac Toe, or pretend boxing with his children. Jose had a warm, friendly personality and smile, and was always willing to lend a hand to help others. He was always joking around and trying to make others laugh and be happy. He loved animals and was especially fond of horses, dogs and roosters.  He loved soccer and was a proud fan of the CruZ Azul soccer team.

Jose will be greatly missed by his wife Socorro and their children Janeth Brizeida and Jose Luis, Jr.; his parents of Kanawha; mother and father-in-law Albert and Olivia Lopez of Belmond;  brothers Pedro (Tere) Martinez and Heber (Maricela) Martinez, all of Belmond; sister Esmerelda (Victor) Lucio of Mexico; sisters-in-law Anna (Franciso “Paca”) Garcia of Belmond; sister Rose (Jesus) Zepeda of Waterloo; and godchildren Dulce and Victor Lucio, and Osvaldo Benavidez.

DONALD E ROSELAND

Donald E. Roseland of Sun City West died April 15, 2013. He was born in Eagle Grove, Iowa, June 1, 1929. Son of Julius and Esther Roseland.

He is survived by his lifetime partner of 57 years, Ronald R. Mueller; sisters: Shirley Spangler (Jerry) and Ellen McCurry; and many nieces. Bonnie Mueller and nephews.

Don moved to Arizona 1961 employed in banking, finance and State of Arizona.

Memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at 2:00 P.M. at American Lutheran Church, 17200 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City. Ashes interred at American Lutheran Church of Sun City.

Contributions to Arizona Humane Society, Phoenix Symphony Orchestra or American Lutheran Church Music Department.

RICHARD GRANDGEORGE
April 22, 1934 - April 18, 2013

Richard Lee Grandgeorge, the son of Charles and Velma (Norcross) Grandgeorge, was born on April 22, 1934, at his grandmother's home in Woolstock, Iowa. He was raised and educated in the Webster City area graduating from Webster City High School. Richard enlisted in the United States Army serving during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in October of 1955.

On August 8, 1958, Richard was united in marriage to Lorene Carlson at Trinity Lutheran Church in Webster City. They made their home and raised their family on a farm southwest of Webster City. He lived in the Webster City area for 68 years before moving to Eagle Grove for the last 11 years.

Richard passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2013, at his home in Eagle Grove, at the age of 78 years. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law, Maynard Finch, Jack Hill, Jack Carlson and Marty Martin and a niece Lynette VanVleet.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Lorene of Eagle Grove; four daughters, Peggy (Larry) Lang of Pasco, WA, Sheila (Mike) Scott of Webster City, Beth Lawrence of Carlisle and Tina (Randy) Bailey of Humboldt; son, Kurt (April) Grandgeorge of West Richland, WA; nine grandchildren, Rob (Donna) Taylor of Tri Cities, WA, Stephanie (Laymon) Boschert of Tri Cities, WA, Blake Bailey of Livermore, Adam Lawrence of Ames, Sarah Scott of Webster City, Jarred Grandgeorge of West Richland, WA, Courtney Bailey of Humboldt, Tyler Grandgeorge of West Richland, WA and Zachary Scott of Webster City; two great-grandsons, Austin and Jackson Taylor of Tri Cities, WA; six step-grandchildren; four step great-grandchildren; four step great-great-granddaughters; two sisters, Charlotte Finch of Webster City and Phyllis Hill of Stanhope; brother-in-law, Leonard (Verla) Carlson of Webster City; sister-in-law, Loraine Martin of Carlisle and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 22, 2013, at Evangelical Lutheran Church in Eagle Grove at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jason Cooper officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Foust Funeral Home, Eagle Grove. Burial will be in French Church Cemetery near Woolstock.

Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.

DONALD E. ASCHE
July 25, 1931 - April 27, 2013 

Don passed away at Rotary Senior Living in Eagle Grove at the age of 81 years.

Survivors include children: Michael Asche (Sue) of Durango, Barbara Greenwood (Ken) of Eagle Grove, Cindy Campbell of Eagle Grove and Don Asche (Jan) of Eagle Grove; grandchildren Michael Greenwood (Christy), Matthew Asche, Eric Asche, Kristin Asche, Jacob Asche (Mallory), and Adam Asche; a great-granddaughter, Lily Greenwood; four sisters and five brothers.

LAVERN EDWARD BARMORE
August 10, 1928 - April 19, 2013 

Ole was born to Jane and William Barmore on Aug. 10,1928 in Adams, Neb. Died on April 19th 2013 from Alzheimers related pneumonia. Married Nadine Luedemann Oct. 1954.

Survived by his 6 children; Rita Barmore, Mary Jo Barmore, Gary (Diane) Barmore, Craig (Jamie) Barmore, Phillip (Crissy) Barmore, Janet Barmore, 12 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, brother Earl (Ellen) Barmore, sister Betty Ann (Alvin) Werkmeister, and sister-in-law Arleen Starman. Preceded in death by his wife, Nadine; mother and father, 2 brothers and one sister.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 27, 2013, at the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 1840 S. 75 E. Bountiful. Friends and family may visit Friday evening from 6-8:00 p.m. at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, and from 12:15-12:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Interment at the Bountiful City Cemetery. On line guest book at www.russonmortuary.com.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 27, 2013, at the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 1840 S. 75 E. Bountiful. Friends and family may visit Friday evening from 6-8:00 p.m. at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, and from 12:15-12:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Interment at the Bountiful City Cemetery.