LAVERNE CHRISTENSEN
March 14, 1923 - May 16, 2013

LaVerne Edwin Christensen, 90, of Popejoy, died May 16, 2013 at his home in Popejoy.

LaVerne was born on March 14, 1923 at the family farm north of Popejoy. The son of Andrew Iverson and Clara Helen (Gardalen) Christensen. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church in Dows.

He attended Oakland Distract #1 County School and graduated from the Popejoy High School. After graduation he worked on the farm with his father.

On August 14, 1948 he was united in marriage to Carol Jean Pray; to this union 3 sons were born , Lonnie, Rick, and Anthony.

After retiring in 1988 and moving to Popejoy, LaVerne helped Nile Rollene in the field and also worked at the Gardalen Hardware Store until it closed.

LaVerne served on the Popejoy School board, the Popejoy Council, and Oakland Township trustee, he was also a member of the Popejoy Lions.

He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and had a special love for all his children.

Those grateful in sharing in his life are his wife, Carol; sons, Lonnie (Linda), Popejoy, Rick (Luanna), San Antonia, TX, and Anthony, Garfield, AR; grandchildren, Shaun, Popejoy, Sara and Chad, Story City; great grandchildren, Taylor and Caiden, Story City; brothers, Ray (Kate), Marshalltown, and Andrew, Arizona; sister, Velma (Ron) Fuller, Popejoy; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, three brothers, Henry, Franklin, and an infant brother, and three sisters, Alma, Cora, and Merna.

A Celebration of life was held Thursday (March, 30, 2013) at 10:00 a.m. at the First Lutheran Church in Dows.

A private family inurnment will be held at a future date.

DEAN A MEINDERS
November 3, 1934 - May 21, 2013

Dean A. Meinders, 78, of Thornton, passed away May 21, 2013, at the Rockwell Care Center, Rockwell, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 24, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Thornton, with Pastor Rhea Eavenson presiding. Burial will be at the Meservey Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the Retz Funeral Home, Thornton, on Thursday, May 23, from 5 to 8 p.m., and will continue one hour prior to services.

Dean Allan Meinders was born Nov. 3, 1934, in Belmond, Iowa, to Adolph and Martha (Pals) Meinders. Dean grew up in the Meservey and Thornton area. He attended country school and graduated from Thornton High School in 1953.

Dean served in the Army Reserves from 1956 to 1962.

Dean was married to Shirley Grunhovd on Sept. 29, 1956, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Scarville, Iowa. To this marriage five children were born: David, Darwin, Debora, Doreen and Dale.

Dean was a farmer and his love for farming lasted 55 years. Dean also served as trustee of Grimes Township, was a 4-H leader for 10 years, was a bus driver for the Meservey-Thornton School District for 20 years, and was a member of the Thornton Lions Club, in which he served in many leadership positions. Dean enjoyed playing cards and going to Branson, Mo. Most of all, he enjoyed family holiday and birthday gatherings. He was very proud of his grandchildren.

Dean is survived by his wife, Shirley (Grunhovd) Meinders, Thornton; son, David (Christi Baxter) of Swaledale, grandchildren, Troy Meinders, Krista (Brad) Kramer and Tyler Meinders, great-grandchildren, Jacoby and Avianna Kramer; son, Darwin (Linette) Meinders of Swaledale, grandchildren, Seth, Drew, and Evan Meinders; son, Dale (Dagmar) of Woodbury, Minn., grandchildren, Liv, Hanna, Ava, and Elin Meinders; daughter, Debora (Rus Williams) Popenhagen of Fairfax, Iowa, grandchildren, Tara and Megan Popenhagen, great-grandchild, Ariya Popenhagen; daughter, Doreen (Pat) Cordle of Manly, Iowa, grandchildren, Nathan and Natalie Cordle; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph and Martha (Pals) Meinders.

ALBERT LEROY CAROLUS
July 18, 1922 - May 18, 2013

Albert Leroy Carolus, age 90, of Belmond passed away Saturday May 18, 2013 at the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Leroy Carolus will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday May 25, 2013 at the St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Belmond. Rev. Nils Hernandez will officiate. Burial will take place in the St Francis Cemetery near Belmond.

Visitation for Leroy Carolus will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. Friday May 24, 2013 at the Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane South in Belmond and will continue one hour piror to  services at the church on Saturday. A parrish rosary will be held at 4:30 P.M. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made in Leroy Carolus' name to the donor's choice. 

Albert Leroy, the son of Albert and Elsie Rust Carolus was born July 18, 1922 on the family farm south of Kanawha in Wright County. He was raised on the family farm south of Klemme and graduated from Goodell High School in 1940. Leroy farmed with his father and brother until moving to a farm north of Goodell in the spring of 1965.

Leroy was united in marriage to the love of his life, Josephine C. Dominy at the St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Belmond on February 13, 1971. Their wedding was the last ceremony in the old church. In the fall of 1999, they moved to the Bel Aire Condos in Belmond.

Leroy was a life-long farmer, who was a very well-read student of the trade. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with Josephine. He was patriotic and loved his country very much. No one will ever know the extent his giving to the surrounding communities. Leroy was a member of the St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Belmond.  

Leroy is survived by a sister, Margaret Nuehring of Britt, a brother, Harlan Carolus and wife, Betty of Garner, nieces, Janet (Tom) Boehnke, Linda (Steve) Pringnitz, Rosemary (Dean) Walter, nephews, Dean (Val) Carolus, Marvin (Phyllis) Nuehring, Milvern (Judy Ann) Neuhring, Monte (Candi) Nuehring, , Lt. Col. William Brignon (ret.), several great nieces and nephews, god-son, Steve (Marilyn) Janssen and dear friend and neighbor, Joan Janssen.  

He is preceded in death by his wife, Josephine on September 2, 2007, his parents, brothers-in-law, Howard Dominy, Morris Nuehring, sisters-in-law, Mabel Brignon, Marian Henrickson and niece, Kathy Oxley.


DUGGER FUNERAL HOME
111 LUICK’S LANE SOUTH
P.O. BOX 233
BELMOND, IOWA 50421
(641) 444-3248 begin_
www.duggerfunerals.com

RACHEL ANN BOELMAN
February 25, 1951 - May 22, 2013

Rachel Ann Boelman, age 62, of Belmond, Iowa, died  Wednesday, May 22, 2013, at the Iowa Specialty Hospital-Belmond, Belmond, surrounded by her loving family.

Services will be held at 4 p.m., today, Saturday, May 25, at the Andrews Funeral Home, 516 First St. S.E., Belmond. Pastor Jim Gochenouer will be officiating. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until the time of the service Saturday at the funeral home. Those wishing to express their sympathies through a memorial in Rachel’s name may wish to consider the American Cancer Society, Hospice of Wright County, the family or the donor’s choice.

Rachel Ann Kalkwarf, the daughter of Robert and Ilene (Tegland) Kalkwarf, was born February 25, 1951, at Belmond. She attended and graduated from Belmond Community Schools in the Class of 1969 and then went on to further her education at Iowa State University in the Clothing and Textiles sector.

Rachel was united in marriage to Verlyn Boelman on June 27, 1970, St. John Lutheran Church, Belmond. Their union was blessed with two sons, Lane and Reed, both of which were the “Apple of Rachel’s Eyes.”
Following their marriage, the couple made their home and raised their children in Belmond, before moving to Marble Falls, Texas, in 1981, where they lived until returning to Belmond in 1989. During their years in Texas, Rachel was employed with the Highlander Newspaper.

Rachel was employed as a graphic designer with the Humboldt Newspaper in Humboldt, Iowa, for the past 23 years until her health forced her to retire from this occupation which she loved.

The main focus in Rachel’s life was her husband and two son’s. She absolutely relished her role as a nurturing and devoted life partner to Verlyn and mom to her boys. Both Lane and Reed reflect fondly back on their years growing up and the fact that they could always count on Rachel looking over their shoulder and cheering for them in all that they were involved in. Whether, it was and athletic event or any other extra-curricular activity, Rachel and Verlyn rarely missed being their to support them in their successes and lift them up in their failures. She truly was their life cheerleader. In more recent years Rachel loved playing the role of “Grandma Rachel.”  She couldn’t wait to spoil them when the family got together and they new just how to grab ahold of her heart strings.

Rachel enjoyed golf and for many years she and Verlyn were active members of the Belmond Country Club, where she played in ladies tournaments and couples events with Verlyn. She enjoyed spending time with her many friends. Rachel enjoyed music and was the organist at the St. John Lutheran Church in Belmond for many years. She was one who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and never cared too much about materialistic things in life, however, she truly appreciated the comforts of her most recent vehicle, “Rachel’s Rav.”

Those left to cherish her memory include, her husband of nearly 43 years, Verlyn Boelman, 311 Sixth Avenue N.W., Belmond, IA 50421; sons, Lane Boelman, Austin, Texas, and Reed (Anna) Boelman, and their two sons, Thomas “Peanut” and Joseph “Joe V” all of Redwing, Minn.; mother, Ilene Kalkwarf, Belmond; brother, Earl (Julie) Kalkwarf, Belmond, also a niece, Jessica (Travis) Roma, Colorado Springs, Colo., and Andy Kalkwarf, Wichita, Kan.; also numerous other nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents; and her dad, Robert Kalkwarf.

Andrews Funeral Home, Belmond, Iowa, 641-444-4474

EILEEN D BRANER
NOVEMBER 8, 1942 - June 2, 2013

Eileen D. Braner, age 90, of Belmond, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2013, at 1:34 p.m. at the Belmond Rehabilitation Center.

Funeral services for Eileen D. Braner will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15, at the Immanuel Reformed Church east of Belmond. Pastor David DeKuiper will officiate. Burial will take place in the Immanuel Reformed Church cemetery.

Visitation for Eileen D. Braner will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. Friday June 14, at the Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane S. in Belmond, and will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday.
Eileen D., the daughter of Earl and Buelah Ruka of Goodnell, was born June 9, 1922, in Goodell. She attended country school and graduated from Goodell High School in 1939.

Eileen was united in marriage to Donald Braner on Nov. 8, 1942. The couple made their home in Belmond where they would farm together and raise a family. They were blessed with two sons: Les and Randall. They farmed with Don’s dad until 1949, when his parents moved into Belmond. Eileen and Don then farmed from 1949 until 1981, when they moved into Belmond. They then farmed with son Les, until his passing in 2002.

Eileen joined the Immanuel Reformed Church in 1943 and was active in the church. She was active in women’s group, was a Sunday school teacher, and the Junior Choir director for many years. Eileen was involved in Belmond serving congregate meals and Meals on Wheels. She enjoyed helping out at the nursing home over the years.

Eileen is survived by a son, Randall and wife, Vicki, of Cibolo,Texas; five grandsons: Joshua of Texas, Les Jr. and wife, Jaemi, of California, Michael and wife, Jodi, of California, Nathan of Iowa, Brandon of Iowa; three granddaughters: Colleen of Maryland, Ericka Ross and husband, Wayne, Lesly Stephens and husband, Chris; six great-grandchildren: Ashli, Kelli, Lucas, Erik, Colin and Rebecca; daughter-in-law, Kathleen Foley Braner; and numerous other friends and relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Don in 2009; son, Leslie in 2002; brother, Clive; and sister, Evelyn.

Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane S., Box 233, Belmond, IA 50421, 641-444-3248 www.duggerfunerals.com.

HOWARD F JACOBMEYER
August 24, 1919 - May 31, 2013

Howard F. Jacobmeyer, age 93, previously of Belmond, passed away Friday May 31, 2013, at the Timbers Senior Living in Apple Valley, Minn.

Funeral services for Howard F. Jacobmeyer will be held at 9:30 a.m. Friday June 7, at the United Methodist Church in Belmond. Pastor Cindy Morrison will officiate. Burial will be in the Belmond Cemetery. Graveside military rites will be provided by the Belmond Honor Guard.

Visitation for Howard F. Jacobmeyer will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday June 6, at the Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane South in Belmond, and will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

Howard Frank, the son of Frank and Mabel Meacham Jacobmeyer was born August 24, 1919, in Frazee, Minn. At an early age, Howard’s family moved to Belmond. Howard grew up, raised his family and retired in Belmond. For the last seven months, Howard has been residing in Minnesota near his daughters due to failing health.

Howard graduated from Belmond High School and served in the U.S. Army in North Africa. Upon returning to Belmond, be began working with his father building barns and doing other construction in the local area.

Howard was united in marriage to Alice Cline on June 7, 1947, in Lohrville, Iowa. They continued to reside in Belmond their entire married life. His true passion was his love of carpentry. Howard was truly a craftsman. He built over 80 new homes in Belmond and the local area, plus numerous remodeling projects. His perfectionism and work ethics were above and beyond. His work was his life, and Howard loved what he did, his legacy will live on in his work.

Howard was a wonderful care-taker of his wife, Alice for many years as she battled Alzheimer’s disease. He was extremely devoted and dedicated to her. Howard loved big band music — Lawrence Welk on Saturday night was a must. He also loved Pontiacs and going on road trips.

Howard is survived by his children, Barbara Johnson and husband, Gary of Rosemont, Minn., James Jacobmeyer of Cedar Rapids, Jane Mau and husband, William of Minnetonka, Minn., five grandchildren, Sara, Claire, Connor, Ellen, Julia, two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Brooks of San Diego, Calif., Elaine Cline of Belmond, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Alice, in 2002, and three sisters, Mildred, Gladys, and Joy.
Memorials will be given to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Dugger Funeral Home, 111Luick’s Lane South, Belmond,  641-444-3248  www.duggerfunerals.com.

MARLYS TOFT RICH
July 31, 1933  - May 30, 2013

Marlys Toft Rich, 79, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2013 at Calvin Community in Des Moines.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 6, 2013 at Hamilton's Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 7, at Capitol Hill Lutheran Church, 511 Des Moines Street. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Marlys was born July 31, 1933 in Hampton, IA, to Jake and Nettie Watermiller. Marlys spent her youth in Belmond, IA. She graduated from Belmond High School in 1951 and married Donald Toft. They had three children, Doug, Mike and Wendy. After Don's death in 1982, she married Jack Rich in 1983 and they spent many years in the Beaverdale area and in Johnston before moving to the Calvin Community Retirement Center in Beaverdale in 2009. Marlys was a member of the former Central Lutheran Church and Capitol Hill Lutheran Church.

Marlys is survived by her twin brother, Marlin Watermiller; husband, Jack; sons, Douglas (Joanne) Toft and Mike Toft; daughter, Wendy Wieland; step-daughter, Deleath (Steve) Blomberg; step-sons, Chris (Kym) Rich and Neal (Kim) Rich; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Capitol Hill Lutheran Church or Calvin Community Foundation.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

DUANE L THOMPSON
October 16 1927 - June 7, 2013

Duane L. Thompson, age 85, of Belmond, Iowa, died Friday, June 7, 2013, at the Rehabilitation Center of Hampton, Iowa, where he had been a resident for a short time.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, at the Belmond United Methodist Church, Belmond.

The Rev. Cindy Morrison will be officiating. Burial will be in the Belmond Cemetery.

Visitation will be today, Monday, June 10, from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Andrews Funeral Home, 516 First St. S.E., Belmond, and continue one hour prior to the services at church Tuesday.

The family suggests those wishing to express their sympathies through a memorial in Duane’s name consider the American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association or the donor’s choice.

Duane was born Oct. 16, 1927, at Goldfield, Iowa, the son of Glen and Hazel (Thomason) Thompson. In 1943, the family moved to Belmond, and Duane graduated from Belmond High School in 1946. He worked at General Mills.

In 1949, he married Dorothy TerHark and started farming on a farm southeast of Belmond, later known as the Belmond Hospital Farm. Duane farmed this farm continuously for the next 49 years. Duane and Dorothy had four children: Linda, Leland, Lynne and Leslie.

Duane enjoyed woodworking, playing cards, dominoes and bird-watching, but his passion was fishing, and he made annual fishing trips to Canada for more than 60 years.

Dorothy passed away in 1979, and in 1981 Duane married Norma Jean (Hopkey) Waage. Duane and Jean farmed together, spent winters in Arizona and Missouri, and made numerous fishing trips to Minnesota and Canada. Two of his favorite excursions were to Alaska, one by motor home and one by cruise.

Duane is remembered by his family for being a caring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He life can be summed by his love of the four F’s: family, friends, farming and fishing — not necessarily in that order!

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Norma Jean; children, Linda (Dick) Kehrt, Clear Lake, Iowa, Leland (Cindy), Edgewater, Fla., Lynne (Sam) Karel, Gunterville, Ala., Leslie “Buck” (Gayle), Belmond, Iowa; stepchildren, Wayne Waage, Belmond, Iowa, LaVonne Waage, McKinney, Texas, Nick (Brenda) Waage, West Des Moines, Iowa, Mitch (Deb) Waage, Belmond, Iowa; grandchildren, Chad (Roxanne) Kehrt, Noel (Stacey) Kehrt, Angie (Jon) Schaefer Bottomlee, Sara (Bruce) Kehrt Oberle, Missy Thompson (fiancé, Chris Peters), Whitney Thompson, (fiancé Zach Dahlgren), Brandon Thompson; step-grandchildren, Gene Waage, Beth Waage, Dustin Waage, Maggie Clausman, Neal Schneider, Amanda Schneider; 18 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; a sister, Darlene Dieger; sisters-in-law, Anna Mae Mason, Rosie (Paul) Hunt, Janet (Richard) Skiye; and a brother-in-law, Larry (Sharon) TerHark; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Dorothy; in-laws, Jake and Grace TerHark, and Ed and Gene Hopkey; brother, Don; sisters-in-law, Helen Thompson and Mary Thompson; brothers-in-law, Paul Dieger, Walt Mason, Duane Skiye, Gene TerHark and Jerry Hopkey.

Andrews Funeral Home, Belmond, Iowa, 641-444-4474

SHIRLEY G KUHLERS
March 13, 1922 - June 5, 2013

Shirley G. Kuhlers, age 91, of Belmond passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2013, at the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond.

Funeral services for Shirley G. Kuhlers will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday June 10, at the Immanuel Reformed Church east of Belmond. Pastor David DeKuiper and Pastor Phil Arnold will officiate. Burial will be in the Immanuel Reformed Church Cemetery.

Visitation for Shirley G. Kuhlers will be held from 2 until 4 p.m. today, Sunday, June 9, at the Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane S. in Belmond, and continue one hour prior to services at the church on Monday.

Shirley, the daughter of John and Carolina “Lena” (Gartz) Halfpap, was born March 13, 1922, near Belmond. She grew up on the family farm and graduated from Belmond High School.

Shirley was united in marriage to Carl John Kuhlers on June 13, 1941, in Princeton, Mo. To this union three children were born: Terry, Wil and Penny. They farmed at several locations around Thornton, Meservey and for more than 50 years at the farm east of Belmond where she was born.

They moved to the Belmond Community Apartments for several years before her move to the Belmond Rehabilitation Center. Carl and Shirley were married nearly 72 years.

Shirley taught country school near Clarion before becoming a wife, mother and homemaker. Shirley had a passion for making rhinestone and beaded jewelry, and owned a gift shop, “The Little Showplace,” where she sold her creations and boxed cards. Shirley loved to remember family and friends with cards on their birthdays, and would often send multiple cards each day.

Shirley had many interests including baking, sewing, gardening, canning and crocheting. She crocheted 13 three-foot-by-five-foot wall hangings of the Lord’s Prayer, besides tablecloths, doilies and afghans.
One of Shirley’s greatest joys was playing music on the piano and organ. She accompanied the choir when she was in high school, and then played for other groups and church choirs throughout her life.
Several church congregations were blessed with her faithful playing, including 50 years at Immanuel Reformed Church of rural Belmond, only missing one Sunday in all those years due to a hand injury. Shirley also accompanied services for numerous years at Goodell Methodist and Bethany Reformed churches in Belmond.

She could play just about any music and could play many hymns and songs from memory, even in recent months. One of her favorite songs was: “You Are My Sunshine.”

A handwritten note found among her things said, “I love my music with all my heart and soul. I play it when I’m happy or when I’m feeling low.”

Shirley will be missed by her family and friends, and is survived by her husband, Carl, of Belmond, son Terry and his wife, Eileen, of Eagle River, Wis., son Wil of Belmond, and daughter Penny Fitzgerald and husband, Jeff, of Newhall, Iowa, six grandsons: Todd, Matt, Jeff (Erin) Kuhlers of Lubbock, Texas, Keith (Mindy) Kuhlers of Hudson, S.D., Joel Fitzgerald of Elmwood Park, Ill., and Paul Fitzgerald of Cedar Rapids.

Other survivors include great-grandchildren Kaylee and Mia of Texas and Leighton of South Dakota; one sister, Ruth Pals of Belmond; one brother, Kenneth (Muriel) Halfpap of Belmond; sister-in-law Alvina Kuhlers of Belmond, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Marvyl Halfpap, Phyllis Boelman and Jessie Thayer.

Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane S., Box 233, Belmond, IA 50421, 641-444-3248 www.duggerfunerals.com.

EVELYN J. BARKEMA
October 15, 1919 — June 4, 2013

Evelyn Jean Barkema, age 93, passed away June 4, 2013 at Aberdeen Village in Olathe, Kansas.

Evelyn was born October 15, 1919, in Alexander, Iowa to Minnie Bonte Schulte and Chris C. Schulte. She graduated from Alexander Consolidated High School in 1937 and from Iowa State University in 1941 with a B.S. degree in Home Economics. After college, Evelyn taught in the Corning and Carroll, Iowa high schools for several years.

During her years teaching, Evelyn began dating Foster D. Barkema on weekends and summer visits to Alexander. Evelyn and Foster were married on October 16, 1948 by her uncle George William Bonte of Bristow, Iowa. Evelyn joined Foster on the farm he had rented, and during a snow storm in March 1950, they moved to the farm several miles northeast of Alexander that would be their home for nearly 60 years. Evelyn was an active participant in the growing farming operation, keeping the farm books and being on call during the busy seasons.

Evelyn was deeply committed to her family and many friends. She made family birthdays and holiday celebrations special events, and she was a faithful writer of letters and cards—by hand, by typewriter, and later by email. Evelyn also loved to bake, sew, needlepoint, and cross stitch, and she loved to be outdoors, tending to her large garden and many flower beds and mowing the big farmstead lawn.
Evelyn was a life-long member of the First Reformed Church of Alexander, where she served on numerous committees and taught Catechism and Sunday School classes for 25 years. She was also a charter member of the Alexander Women’s Club.

Evelyn and Foster spent the winter months of their retirement years in Mesa, Arizona, and they always looked forward to the arrival of spring and their return to their Iowa farm home. In November, 2006, she and Foster moved to an apartment in the Aberdeen Village retirement community in Olathe, Kansas.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, infant brother John Edward Schulte, sister Arlene Bier, and daughter Janelle Kay Barkema.

Evelyn is survived by her husband Foster, brother Calvin C. Schulte of Alexander, and son Alan, daughter-in-law Judi, and grandchildren Kyle and Karen, all of Lenexa, Kansas.

A memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 8 at Ath First Reformed Church, 214 Brown Street, Alexander, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Hospice of North Iowa.

ALBERT E. DAHLGREN
January 27, 1922 - June 4, 2013

Albert Edward Dahlgren, lifelong resident of Wright County, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at the age of 91 years young.

Funeral services for Albert Dahlgren will be held on Friday, June 7, 2013 at 10:30 AM at the First Lutheran Church, 420 1st Street North West in Clarion with Pastor Ron Nelson officiating.  Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 6, 2013 from 5:00-7:00 pm at the Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East in Clarion and will continue one hour prior to the services at the church.
He was born on January 27, 1922, to Carl and Eva (Hardy) Dahlgren in rural Wright County. Albert was the fifth of six children in that Swedish farm family. He farmed with horses as a youngster. He graduated from Clarion High School in 1939 and was engaged in farming and the dairy business along with his father and brother (Dahlgren Dairy) until he purchased his own place east of Clarion in the 1950’s (Maple Lane Farm). He took pride in his Guernsey herd and ran a Grade A dairy farm for many years. In the 1970’s he switched over to beef production. Over the years his barnyard also included some hogs, sheep, chickens, Shetland ponies, and many cats and dogs.

In 1954, Albert married Mary Jane Johnsen in Humboldt, Iowa, following a blind date match-up. Together they raised five children on their farm and later moved into Clarion in 1987. He supported his family in whatever endeavor was on the calendar … community events, pinewood derby races, youth group hayrides, ball games of all kinds, wrestling, band and choral concerts, 4-H activities of all kinds, plays and musicals, recitals and so much more. He loved to see his kids and grandkids in action. He was a huge fan of our Choralaires, our Festival in the Park, our County Fair, and our Iowa State Fair.

Albert belonged to the First Lutheran Church of Clarion and served as a deacon, usher, and faithful church member for many years. He especially enjoyed hosting some Japanese guests through the Bridge of Fellowship program in 1974 and his reciprocal visit to Japan in 1977.  Albert and Mary Jane’s trip to Norway in 1981 was another highlight for this hometown farmer. He participated in the Clarion bowling league during the 1960’s and 70’s. He and Mary Jane even learned square dancing and he loved to swing his partner. Albert also loved to play cards, read books, follow high school and college athletics, and to go out for a good steak dinner now and then. He raised some very tasty tomatoes each summer, too. His stubborn determination to care for Mary Jane afforded them several more years of togetherness beyond what was thought to be possible. Though Albert never sought the limelight, his quiet unassuming nature belied his rich sense of humor and teasing skills. A local nickname for him was “Albright” due to his sunny disposition. He was devoted to his wife and family. He was a hard worker. He had a quiet strength and dignity.

Albert is survived by his wife of 59 years, sweet Mary Jane … his children Dave/Kathy Dahlgren of Clarion; Jim Dahlgren of Clarion; Sandy/Chuck Fee of Goldfield; and Pam/Rick Strayer of Andover, MN … his grandchildren Jared/Camie Dahlgren of Colorado Springs, CO; Nick Dahlgren of Clarion; Aubrey Davis of Des Moines; Zach Dahlgren/Whitney Thompson of Waterloo; Caleb Dahlgren of Goldfield; Mikayla Dahlgren of Clarion; Christina Zajicek of Champlin, MN; Ben Strayer of Champlin, MN; Mary Lynn/Brad Snyder of Romeoville, IL; and Danielle Fee of Johnston … seven great grandchildren … numerous nieces and nephews … and many other relatives and friends. He will be missed by all.

Albert was precede in death by his parents, his son Mike Dahlgren, and all of his siblings Verna Lofton, Viola Fisher, Carlton Dahlgren, Melvin Dahlgren, and Elaine Brinkman.

JULIANA LYMAN
October 31, 1925 - June 12, 2013

The funeral service for Juliana Lyman will be 2:30 p.m. Wednesday,  June 12, 2013 in River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home, with Chaplin Lincoln Engleburt officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City, Iowa at a later date. Visitation will be held from 5:00pm to 8:00pm Tuesday June 11, 2013 at Macken Funeral Home and one hour before the service on Wednesday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Lyman, 87, of Rochester, died Friday June 7, 2013 after battling cancer at Seasons Hospice in Rochester.

Juliana was born October 31, 1925 in Ashland, Ohio to Howard and Letha (Schear) Lee. She graduated from Clarion High School, Clarion, Iowa in 1943. November 21, 1947 Juliana married Fred Lyman at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.  She worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone in Mason City, Iowa  and Davenport, Iowa, retiring  in 1977 while working in Decorah, Iowa.  She was a life time member of the Pioneer Club and is also a member of Olmsted United Methodist Church in Rochester. Juliana enjoyed playing bridge, traveling, bird watching, and reminiscing with her husband. Fred worked many years for Interstate Power Company.

Survivors include her husband Fred, son Ron (Linda) Lyman of Rochester ; grandchildren Tammi (Steve) Mosing of Rochester, Jenni (DJ) Horman of Eyota, MN., Kathi  (Jeremy) Hildman of Rochester, Robert (Amy) Lyman of Edina, MN.; great grandchildren Abbie and Sophie Mosing ; Emma and Carter Horman; Sybastyen, Tristyn, and Josiah Hildman. Juliana is also survived by her two sisters Marian Schurtz and Dorothea Miller both of Kansas City, Missouri.

Posted  on 23 June 2013

MILDRED L. ARMFIELD
October 8, 1921 - June 14, 2013

Mildred L. Armfield, age 91, of Latimer passed away Friday June 14, 2013 Franklin General Hospital in Hampton.

Funeral services for Mildred L. Armfield will be held at 2:00 P.M. Monday June 17, 2013 at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Coulter. Pastor David Bernhardt will officiate. Burial will be in the Coulter Cemetery. 

Visitation for Mildred L. Armfield will be held from 12:30 until service-time on Monday at the church. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Dugger Funeral Home, 320 East Street in Latimer.

Mildred Lucille, the daughter of Henry and Bertha VonGemmingen Raisch was born October 8, 1921 at Geneva, Iowa. She graduated from Geneva High School and Ellsworth College, where she obtained her teaching degree. Mildred taught in country school in rural Hampton. In 1942, she married Norman Pedersen of Coulter, Iowa. They lived in Charleston, SC, while Norman served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Following his service, they began many happy years farming in the Coulter area. Norman passed away in 1970. A few years later, Mildred met and married Ken Armfield. They lived happily for the next 37 years in Latimer. Mildred and Ken were retired and enjoyed 20 years of winters traveling south, mostly in Arizona. Ken passed away in 2010.

Mildred was a member of the Nazareth Lutheran Church and Ken was a member of the U.C.C. in Latimer, so, they alternated attending the churches every other Sunday. She was always ready for a game of Dominoes or cards. Mildred belonged to Wednesday Ladies Card Club, and always looked forward to the CAL Over 60s Luncheons. 

Mildred was one of eight children, born to Henry and Bertha Raisch, with only Alice Pickens surviving; also surviving are her daughters, Joy Winters of St Joseph, MO, Jan Kramer and husband, Larry of Omaha, NE, five grandchildren, Todd Winters(Stacy), Kristen Katzmann(Dave), Tammy Kramer, Braden Kramer(Meilin), Matt Winters(Jessica), six great grandchildren, Jack and Avery, Alex and Lily, Keegin and Finley; Mildred is also survived by Kenneth Armfield’s daughters, Sharon, Diane and Audrey and their families.  

She is preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, Adele, Margaret, Dorothy, and three brothers, Arthur, Kenneth, and Norman.  

DUGGER FUNERAL HOME
320 EAST STREET
LATIMER, IOWA 50452
(641) 579-6278 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (641) 579-6278 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
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JANELL KAY HINTON
December 2, 1954 - June 9, 2013

Janell (Fish) Hinton passed away Sunday, June 9, 2013 at Mercy Hospital in Sioux City.

A visitation from 1:30-3:00 pm and Celebration of Life at 3:00 pm will be held in the chapel at the Ankeny Funeral Home on Saturday, June 22, 2013. A second visitation will take place from 2:00-4:00 pm at the United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall in Osage, Iowa on Tuesday, June 25, 2013.

Janell was born on December 2, 1954 in Osage, Iowa to Bob and Annabelle Fish. She attended the University of Northern Iowa and graduated from Hamilton Business College in Mason City. In 1982, Janell was united in marriage in Merle Hinton. She was employed by Mitchell County Memorial Hospital and as a self-employed bookkeeper in her husband's business.

She was preceded in death by her father, Bob Fish; and mother-in-law, Jeannine Hinton. Janell will be missed by her husband, Merle Hinton of Storm Lake; mother, Annabelle Fish of Osage; brother, Tom Fish (Cindy) of Ankeny; father-in-law, R.J. (Jerry) Hinton of Clarion; brother-in-laws, Mark Hinton (Connie) of Clarion, Mike Hinton (Elaine) of Columbia, Missouri; three nieces, and five nephews.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in lieu of flowers.

SHARON PHYLLIS FITZ
June 1, 1939 - June 13, 2013

Sharon Phyllis (Fisher) Fitz passed away peacefully at her home on June 13, 2013. Sharon’s body will be cremated and the family will be holding a private graveside service at a later date.

Sharon was born June 1, 1939 in Nevada, IA to Ernest and Bertha (Wampler) Fisher. She was raised and educated in the Story County area, having attended six different grade schools before entering Roland High School. In 1957 she graduated valedictorian from Roland High School. In high school she won a scholarship from the Iowa Federation of Women’s Clubs on the basis of character, school record, aptitude and financial need. She was one of six women chose of 187 Iowa high school applicants.

While attending the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), she was admitted in the Kappa Mo Epsilon National Honorary Mathematics Fraternity because of her scholastic achievements. She supplemented her scholarship by working summers, weekends, holidays and nights as a nurse’s aide at the state mental hospital in Independence, IA; truck stop waitress in Ames, IA; supermarket cashier in Cedar Rapids, IA; and cleaned rooms at a fishing resort in International Falls, MN.

In 1965 Sharon married Emory Fitz. Sharon was hired as a teacher at the Dows High School. Emory farmed the Fitz family farm east of Dows, while Sharon was the bookkeeper for the farming operation. While teaching at Dows High School she was also the computer coordinator and technology leader. One of her passions was helping struggling students achieve math skills that would serve them for the rest of their lives. She loved to learn and teach. She was a quiet leader with a warm smile for everyone.

Sharon took advantage of many learning opportunities, especially if it would benefit not only her but her students. One of these opportunities included attending summer classes at Central Michigan University for two years. She graduated with a Master Teacher of Mathematics Degree. Sharon completed nine credit hours in physics at Iowa State University which applied towards her graduate degree. The Professor of Physics at ISU (Dr. Good) described Sharon as being dedicated and determined. Sharon then returned to UNI for computer science courses. She also attended Iowa University Marycrest, Morningside Colleges, and Drake University where she mainly took Advanced Computer Programming Classes. She had a 4.0 GPA in most of her graduate work and achieved Dean’s List status throughout her college career. Sharon earned 42 credit hours after her M.A. and completed a multitude of non-credit hours.

During Sharon’s career as a Dows high school teacher many people acquired their High School Equivalency Diploma due to Sharon and one of her colleagues teaching night classes for GED at the Dows Library. Sharon taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School at the Methodist church near their home. She was a member of the United Methodist Women’s Group along with being president for a while. She served on Church Board of trustees and was a member of the Bible Study Group. Sharon was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and spent time as the president.

As a youth, Sharon was an 11 year member of the 4-H and held the offices of treasurer, historian and president. She had several projects but sewing was her favorite. She became a skilled and award winning seamstress. She made clothing for herself and family members. Later in life she made blankets for orphans. While her sons were members she assisted with 4-H and Cub Scouts.

After retiring from Dows High School, she was an adjunct teacher at Ellsworth Junior College and taught Mathematics until her health failed.

Sharon is survived by her husband Emory Fitz; son Mark & Jolee Fitz of Nevada, IA, son Paul Fitz & fiancée Heather Prouty of Des Moines, IA and two granddaughters Savannah and Madison.

She was preceded in death by parents Ernest & Bertha (Wampler) Fisher, and brother Gordon and Judy Fisher.

BARTON BRINKMAN
August 2, 1964 - June 19, 2013

Barton (Bart) Brinkman, age 48, of Dows passed away Thursday June 13, 2013 in Anoka, MN.

Funeral services for Bart Brinkman will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday June 19, 2013 at the United Methodist Church in Dows. Pastor Kalen Fristad will officiate. 

Visitation for Bart Brinkman will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Tuesday June 18, 2013 at the United Methodist Church in Dows and will continue one hour prior to services on Wednesday. Dugger Funeral Home, 100 North Lee Street in Dows is in charge of arrangements.

Barton Allen Brinkman the son of Melvin and Anna Armstrong Brinkman was born on August 2, 1964 at Franklin General Hospital at Hampton, Iowa. He graduated from Dows Community High School in 1983. He also attended Iowa central Community College in Fort Dodge. On (Date Of Marriage) Bart married Lorrie Knoll at Pine Lake Park in Eldora. The couple was blessed with two daughters, Sarah Jane and Paige Lorraine. Bart loved his job where he worked mainly with heavy equipment. He also enjoyed goofing off with his friends, Mark, Frank and Brad. Bart enjoyed spending his time with his girls and beloved friend Jeni Tjarks. He also enjoyed Mc Gyvering anything that needed fixed and even things that didn’t, Morel Mushroom hunting, or just laying in the hammock doing nothing.

Survivors include his daughters, Sarah of Rowan and Paige of Goodell; mother, Anna of Dows; brother Gair of Eldora, twin brother Bradly Lynn (Kim) of Dows; sister, Margaret (Lynn) Worden of Dows; and other relatives and many friends.


DUGGER FUNERAL HOME
100 NORTH LEE STREET
DOWS, IOWA 50071
(515) 571-3143 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (515) 571-3143 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
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LARRY C WILLIS
February 28, 1941 - June 16, 2013

Larry C. Willis, 72, died Sunday, June 16, 2013 at home after a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer.

Larry was born in Iowa Falls, IA on February 28, 1941 to Clyde and Hazel (Dellinger) Willis.  He married Kaye Parker, his college sweetheart, on December 21, 1963 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Elgin, MN.

Larry graduated from Clarion High School, Clarion, IA in 1959. He was involved in many activities and lettered in 3 sports; football, wrestling and baseball. His favorite sport in high school was wrestling and he was captain of the team. He won many tournaments, was unbeaten in his conference, and in his junior and senior year he qualified for the State tournament, winning an Iowa High School Championship in 1959. He was named an All-American.

He went on to attend Winona State College, (now WSU), where he was on a college scholarship for wrestling and lettered four years. He won many tournaments in college and placed 4th in the NAIA National Wrestling Tournament his sophomore year. He was twice captain of the team in college, named to Michigan Tech's “All-Opponent Team” and an All-American. Larry was involved in many other activities while in college and, in his senior year, he was inducted into, “Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges”.

He started his teaching career in 1963 at Bamber Valley School where he taught elementary and was assistant principal for several years. Following Bamber Valley he taught at Churchill, and later Churchill-Hoover. He went on to pursue a Master's Degree in 1967 from the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado, and later his Education Specialist Equivalency at WSU. While teaching in 1976, he was selected as “An Outstanding Leader in Elementary and Secondary Education”.

Sports were Larry's main hobbies. He was active in the past in bowling, golf, church softball league, hunting, fishing, and motorcycling with Kaye. His best golf experience happened when he was 65 years old and hit an albatross, (hole in one on a par 4), at 277 yards, on hole number 10 at Soldier's Field Golf Course. He also was active in the past in the YMCA Big Brother program. He thoroughly enjoyed taxiing his grandchildren, watching them play sports, participating in school and church functions, plus spending time playing with them at the Rochester Athletic Club. The “breakfast club” at HyVee was another enjoyment, along with yearly fishing trips with friends and colleagues, yearly mini-reunions with friends from Clarion, IA and the monthly card club.

During retirement Larry researched, compiled a booklet, and distributed copies of the history of Clarion High School wrestling from 1924-2011. It lists State and Team championships plus place winners. After 2 years of working on this project he then researched and compiled a list of All American NAIA tournament wrestling winners and place winners from Winona State University 1956-1978. The latter is displayed on a creative poster in the Athletic Hall of Fame at WSU along with an old warm-up of Larry's. He was a great fan and follower of high school and college wrestling, especially MN and IA.

He held a lifelong membership in the National Education Association, was a member of the MEA, REA, and was a vice president of the Southeast Rural Educators Association. Larry and his family are all members of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

Larry will be remembered for his fun-loving personality, intelligence, dedication to family and his teaching profession, energy level, repairman skills, plus his wonderful outlook on life even during his illness.
Larry's family would like to especially thank Jessica Mitchell, CPN, all the nurses on Mayo Gonda 10, and Mayo Hospice for their wonderful care, as well as niece Kim. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Larry is survived by his wife Kaye, two children, Sally (Matt) Willis-Oeltjen and Jane (Brett) Willis-Ness, all of Rochester; four grandchildren, Taylor, Katie, Brendan, Colin; one step grandson, Jacob and a nephew, Robert McBurney. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Joyce; and a brother-in-law, Russ.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am Friday, June 21, 2013 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1212 12th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN with Rev. Dr. Charles Ortloff officiating.  Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00pm Thursday, June 20, 2013 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and an hour prior to the service at the church.  Burial will take place at Oakwood East Cemetery.

Memorials can be directed to Pancreatic Cancer Research at Mayo, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, or donor's choice. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.

WILLIAM ROUT JR.
December 25, 1934 - June 15, 2013

William Rout Jr., age 78, of Boone formerly of Kanawha and Dows, passed away Saturday June 15, 2013 at the Eastern Star Masonic Home in Boone, Iowa.

Funeral services for William Rout Jr. will be held at 1:30 P.M. Thursday June 20, 2013 at the First Lutheran Church in Dows. Stan Watne will officiate. Burial will be in the Galt Cemetery north of Galt.

Visitation for William Rout Jr. will be held one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday in Dows. Dugger Funeral Home, 100 North Lee Street in Dows is in charge of arrangements.

Bill Jr., the son of William and Lura Rout, was born December 25, 1934 in Clarion, Iowa. He attended country school Vernon #5, then Dows elementary and high school. William graduated from Dows High School in 1952. After high school, Bill worked building round metal grain bins in Wyoming and Minnesota and at the Morton Pie factory in Webster City. Also at the Clarion Elevator and Coleman Heating in Clarion.

Bill Jr. married Arlyce State on November 11, 1956 at the First Lutheran Church in Dows. The couple moved to Boone, Iowa in August of 1958. In Boone, Bill Jr. delivered Borden Milk and worked at Hale Furniture. He then was hired by the Alleman Coop, where he worked out of the Napier branch. Bill Jr. and Arlyce were blessed with three sons, William L., Wade A. and Michael D.. During their 10 years in Boone the couple made many close friends. In August of 1968, Bill Jr. was hired by the Klemme Coop to work at the Goodell branch. In June of 1972 the family moved to Kanawha, where Bill Jr. managed the Coop Oil Station until 2005. Bill was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2007, and in 2011 entered the Eastern Star Masonic Home in Boone.

Bill Jr. is fondly remembered by his loving family, as a hard-working man who enjoyed life. He and Arlyce traveled extensively. Twice, they drove to Alaska, visiting many sights from Fairbanks to Seward. Also the couple drove the Lewis and Clark Trail from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean. Bill Jr. enjoyed fishing, especially the family trips to Canada for 40 years. He was an accomplished bowler, having attended numerous state bowling tourneys. He was most proud of his sons and grandchildren.

Bill Jr. is survived by his wife, Arlyce of Boone, three sons, William L.(Jody) of Woden, Wade A.(Colleen) of Klemme, Michael D. of Clarion, two grandchildren, David and Rozella, step granddaughter, Krista Sweers(Drew) and their son, Jayden of Garner, six siblings, Margaret Mathews(Jack) of Montgomery, AL, Carol Carlson(Gary) of Madrid, Darrell(Fran) of Cambridge, Dewayne(Wanda) of Springfield, MO, Phyllis Collison(George) of Houston, TX, Roger of Dows and numerous other nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

DUGGER FUNERAL HOME
100 NORTH LEE STREET
DOWS, IOWA 50071
(515) 852-3143
www.duggerfunerals.com

MAMIE LUCILLE ANDERSON
November 20, 1921 - June 17, 2013

Mamie Lucille Anderson, age 91, of Dows, Iowa, passed away Monday, June 17, 2013, at the Rehabilitation Center of Hampton.

Funeral services for Lucille Anderson will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday June 21, at First Lutheran Church in Dows. Pastor David Nerdig will officiate. Burial will take place in the North Lawn Memorial Garden Cemetery south of Iowa Falls.

Visitation for Lucille Anderson will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 20, at the Dugger Funeral Home, 100 North Lee St. in Dows, and continues one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

M. Lucille, the daughter of Ralph Percy and Gunda Marie Evans Moore was born Nov. 20, 1921, near Dows. She grew up in Oakland Township where Lucille attended country school.

Lucille was united in marriage to Orlo Anderson on Feb. 7, 1942. The couple made their home on a farm near Dows. Together they farmed and raised four children, Dallas, Janis, Clinton and David.
Lucille was a member of the Fist Lutheran Church in Dows.

Lucille is survived by her children, Janis Shimp and Dennis of Venice, Fla., David Anderson and Marsha of Clarion, two daughters-in-law, Linda Anderson of Williams, Mary Anderson of Dows, ten grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and numerous other family and friends.

She is preceded in death her parents, husband, and two sons, Dallas and Clinton.

Dugger Funeral Home, Dows, 515-571-2816  www.duggerfunerals.com

DON WILBUR TALLMAN
March 7, 1917 - June 21, 2013

Don Wilbur Tallman, 96, of Newton, formerly of the Clarion and Storm Lake, IA areas, was born March 7, 1917, in Tripp, South Dakota, the son of John A. and Mary E. (Eddy) Tallman. He was a high school graduate, and later served his country during World War II, with the US Army and Army Reserves. Don was a Finish Carpenter, and was self-employed for most of his life.

On December 20, 1940, Don was united in marriage with Margaret A. Munn in Clarion. He had committed his life to his wife, family and friends, and enjoyed woodworking.

Don died Friday morning, June 21, 2013, at the Heritage Manor in Newton, IA, under the care of Skiff Hospice. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Those left to honor Don's memory include his son John (Bonnie) Tallman of LaPorte City, CO; his daughters: Janet (Kenneth) Miller of Longmont, CO, Mary Jane Binder of Storm Lake and Anne (Jim) Willemsen of Newton; his ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; and his sisters: June Feil of Crosby, North Dakota and Mary "Lois" Inman of Udall, Kansas.

A private family service and interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are being designated to Skiff Hospice in Newton.

MELVIN WALTER WEIDEMANN
January 1, 1945 - June 15, 2013

Melvin Walter Weidemann, 68, of Dows, Iowa, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 15, 2013, at Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City, Iowa.

He was born on January 1, 1945, in Dows, Iowa, to Walter H. and Mabel (Fanselow) Weidemann. Mel graduated from Dows High School in 1963. He married Nancy Miller in 1968 and later married Cindy Finney in 1987.

Mel served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He worked for Georgia Pacific in Atlanta, Georgia, for twenty-seven years and later owned and operated Scooters Bar in Dows for eight years.

Mel was a former member of the Vernon Lutheran Church in rural Dows and a current member of the First Lutheran Church in Dows. He enjoyed fishing, camping, spending time at the Weidemann cabin on Napoleon Lake in Minnesota, and cooking for his family; fish fry's were his specialty.

Mel is survived by his children Chris (Carolyn) Weidemann of Augusta, Georgia, Heather (Hughey) Snodgrass of Modoc, South Carolina, Sean Weidemann of Garner and Nick Weidemann of Garner, grandchildren Josh, Amber, Kayle, Chloe and Brooklyn, great-granddaughter Kaliah Dorenkamp, siblings William B. (Beverly) Weidemann of Dows, Dora Sue Smit of Hampton, Jon Weidemann of Angora, Minnesota, Merle (Inez) Weidemann of Dows, Kathryn (Randy) Green of Austin, Texas and Karen (Sam) Keller of Papillion, Nebraska, along with numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Mabel, sister Donna Rae Boll and brother-in-law Dennis Smit.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 29, 2013, at the Fairview Cemetery in Dows, with Rev. Arthur J. Zewert officiating.

PERSHING HELGEVOLD
March 16, 1918 - June 18, 2013

Pershing Helgevold, 95, formerly of Holmes, passed away at his home in Springfield, Massachusetts on Tuesday, June 18, 2013.

Graveside services for Pershing Helgevold will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2013 at 1:00 PM at Holmes Lutheran Church Cemetery with Pastor Rich Taylor officiating.  

Pershing Helgevold, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother passed away at his home in Springfield on Tuesday, June 18, 2013 in the care of his family at the age of 95.

Born on March 16, 1918 in Holmes, Iowa, a loving son of the late Ole and Rose (Richardson) Helgevold, he was a longtime resident of Springfield. He graduated from Eagle Grove High School in Eagle Grove, Iowa, and in 1937 he graduated from Coyne College in Chicago, IL, as a Licensed Electrician.

Pershing served his country honorably, as a PFC, in the U.S.  Army Air Corps. during WW II. He served with the 3502d AAF Base Unit Squadron A, in North Africa, Sardinia and Italy. Also during the war, he came to Bradley Field and met the love of his life, Cora (Pooler) who he has been married to for the past 70 years.

Pershing was employed as an Electrician at Western Mass Electric Company, for 34 years, retiring as Control Supervisor.  He was a very smart and talented Electrician with a great ability to solve problems. While at WMECO, he supervised all tear downs.

Along with his wife Cora, he was a longtime member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Springfield.

Besides his loving wife Cora Helgevold of Springfield, he is survived by his 4 loving children, David P. of Manhattan Beach, CA, Diane L. Helgevold of Albuquerque, NM, Roy R. of Foster City, CA, and Betty L. Laliberte and her husband, AL, a loving and caring son in law who was seen more as a son, of Feeding Hills, MA; 6 cherished grandchildren, Steve Wood of Albuquerque, NM, Jon Wood of Denver, CO, Kristen and Emily Laliberte both of Feeding Hills, and Kristy and Kaity Helgevold both of Foster City, CA, and 1 great grandson, Jace Drake Wood, of Denver, CO; and 2 nieces and 2 nephews.

Pershing was also predeceased by his 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Pershing’s name may be made to

American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.

LAUREL K THOMAS
May 7, 1947 - June 20, 2013

Laurel K. Thomas, 66, well-known rural Williams area farmer, died Thursday, June 20, 2013 at the Mercy Medical Center at Mason City. A Gathering to celebrate his life will be held at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 27 at the Foster Chapel. Visitation will be one hour before the Gathering.

Laurel Kent Thomas, son of Leslie and Mildred Lindaman Thomas, was born May 7, 1947 at Winterset, Iowa. He graduated from Dow High School in 1965 and attended Ellsworth Junior College for two years. He was a member of the Iowa National Guard for ten years. On April 3, 1971, he was united in marriage to Linda Sue Davis of Webster City at the Little Brown Church at Nashua, Iowa.

Farming was the love of Laurel's life, and when you didn't see him out in the field, he could be found in his shop busily repairing or fabricating something. He also did tiling, demolition, and excavation work for himself and others. In his spare time he enjoyed watching stock care races and restoring classic cars. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Linda and brother, Neil Thomas of Dows.

Laurel was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Paul Thomas.

Write a personal tribute or light a virtual candle for the Thomas family at
www.fosterfuneralandcremation.com 

DELORES A. BLAU
October 20, 1933 - June 12, 2013

Delores A. Blau, age 79, of Belmond, Iowa, died Wednesday, June 12, 2013, at the Iowa Specialty Hospital-Belmond, Belmond, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m, Monday, June 17, at the First Reformed Church of Alexander, Alexander, Iowa. The Rev. Philip Arnold will be officiating. Burial will be in the Alexander Cemetery.
Visitation will be today, Sunday, June 16, from 5 until 7 p.m. at the Andrews Funeral Home, 561 First Street S.E., Belmond, and continue one hour prior to the services at church Monday.

Memorials are suggested to cancer research, Iowa Specialty Hospital-Belmond, or the donor’s choice.
Delores Anna Grove was born on Oct. 20, 1933, at Clarion, Iowa, the daughter of Daniel and Anna (Wolfe) Grove. She attended Clarion Schools and was baptized in her home and later confirmed at the United Methodist Church of Clarion.

In her younger years she enjoyed roller skating and dancing. The roller rink is where she met the love of her life and future husband, Daryl B. Dorenkamp. Delores and Daryl were later married at New Hampton, Iowa, on Aug. 13, 1950. Their union was blessed with three children: Arnold, Daryl and Jacqueline. Daryl preceded Delores in death on Aug. 25, 1959.

She later married Clarence Blau on July 28, 1961. Clarence died on July 24, 1991.

Delores was a devoted wife, loving mother and nurturing grandma throughout her entire life. She relished each of these roles as if they were the only thing that mattered in her life, always putting the needs and wants of her family and friends before her own needs.

Her energies and ability to give of herself to others was boundless and unending. Even in the later days of her life she would always be more concerned about how everyone else was doing rather than focusing on the challenges she may have been battling.

In addition to providing for the needs of her family at home, she had worked alongside her husband mowing and maintaining the Alexander Cemetery, and they were custodians at the First Reformed Church of Alexander for a number years. Her kids remember her being their chief assistant and often times their fill-in as a paper carrier over the years when they were growing up.

Delores also had been employed at the Alexander Hatchery and did house cleaning in the area for a time. She was office manager at the Belmond Hospital for 20 years and did housekeeping at the Belmond Health Care Center (today’s Rehabilitation Center of Belmond) for 15 years prior to retiring in the early 2000s.

Delores enjoyed raising a large vegetable garden and strived hard to make it a weed-free garden.
She looked forward to babysitting her grandkids and attending many of their events and activities over the years. They will remember her “Grandma Blau” cookies, her wonderful potato salad, and of course, her famous goulash that she would whip up for them for numerous occasions or just because they looked forward to it.

Delores was always a caregiver to her family as they aged and battled health declines. She gave unselfishly of her time to attend to the needs of both her own and her husband’s families. She enjoyed family vacations and had done some traveling with her daughter Jacki’s family in later years.
She looked forward to visits and coffee time spent at the home of Herb and Laurie Becker with the two of them and friends. In more recent years she loved her time residing at the Belmond Community Apartments, where she expanded her friendships and loved to participate in daily coffee and conversation with her many neighbors there.

After moving to the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond, she continued to look forward to the days ahead and all they had to offer. She loved to participate in the facility’s exercise classes, attend its church and prayer services, bingo and other activities and events.

During her time at the Care Center she enjoyed her fellow residents, and very much anticipated the fun and enjoyable comradery of the staff and her neighbors. She looked forward to her son-in-law, Kenny, coming in every day and checking the “homework” (puzzles) he encouraged her and her roommate to do. As her health deteriorated and she was hospitalized several times she continued to share her unique wit and warm personality with the staff who cared for her there.

When asked how she wished to be remembered by her family and friends, she simply stated, “I want to be remembered by my family and friends for how much I loved each of them!” She continued and referred to herself as “a hen with her wings spread wide as she protects and shares her love and nurturing with her brood of chicks.”

Those who had the privilege of crossing in the steps of her life journey will cherish her legacy and memory as a lady small in stature who had a heart many times larger than her being, as a “true friend” who was full of wit and humor and who had a strong faith and believed in the powers of prayer.

She will be missed for her warm smile and her unique and wonderful character.

She will be deeply missed by her son, Arnold (Christine) Dorenkamp, Hanlontown, Iowa; daughter, Jacqueline (Kenneth) Bock, Belmond, Iowa; and son, Daryl Dorenkamp, Grimes, Iowa; a sister, Sandy (Dave) Helland, Rochester, Minn.; sister-in-law, Lucie Grove, Karnack, Texas; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ken (Sandy) Dorenkamp, Alexander, Iowa; grandchildren, Bryan (Ericka) Dorenkamp, Rochester, Minn., Amy Jo (Rick) Closner, Pine Island, Minn., Curtis (Tammy) Reno, Collin, Ohio, Michelle Johnson (and companion Jake Smith), Belmond, Iowa, Jennifer (Bob) Peffer, Bondurant, Iowa, Ashley (Mike) Ferguson, Marion, Iowa, Stephanie Bock, Belle Plaine, Iowa, Michael Bock, Ankeny, Iowa, Daniel Bock, Belmond, Iowa, Benjamin (Jenny) Dorenkamp, Granger, Iowa, Nicholas Dorenkamp (and companion Amber Weideman), Garner, Iowa, and Jeremy Dorenkamp, Lewisville, Texas; 16 great-grandchildre; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Delores was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Daryl B. Dorenkamp; husband, Clarence Blau; and brother, Daniel M. Grove.

Andrews Funeral Home, Belmond, Iowa, 641-444-4474

MILDRED I ANDERSON
March 6, 1929 - June 21, 2013

Mildred I. Anderson, age 84, of Belmond, passed away Friday June 21, 2013 at the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond.

Memorial services for Mildred I. Anderson will be held at 1:30 P.M. Wednesday June 26, 2013 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Belmond. Pastor Troy Pflibsen will officiate. A privarte family burial will take place in the Belmond Cemetery at a later date.

Visitation for Mildred I. Anderson will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Tuesday June 25, 2013 at the Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane South in Belmond and continue one hour prior to services at the church on Wednesday.

Mildred Ione, the daughter of Otto and Sema Pals Helland was born March 6, 1929 in Belmond. She grew up near Belmond where she attended a one room country school northeast of Belmond for one year. Mildred then attended Belmond Community Schools and graduated from Belmond High School in 1946. She then attended Gates Business College in Waterloo for one year and received a Junior Secretarial Degree and worked at Hoxie Fruit in Waterloo for one year.

Mildred was united in marriage to Duane Anderson on February 22, 1948. The couple made their home in Belmond. Mildred and Duane were blessed with three children, Suzanne in 1948, Jeanne in 1949 and Craig in 1965. Mildred worked first in Belmond at the Steele Memorial Clinic as a secretary and also helped Roy Henderson and Jim Houser with income tax returns. Mildred then worked at the Belmond Independent for 40 years as book-keeper and secretary. She retired from the Independent in 2010.

Mildred really enjoyed golfing, dancing, singing and making crafts. She recorded a hole in one at the Clarmond Country Club in August 1977 on Hole #2. Mildred most loved the time she was able to share with her family. Mildred was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Belmond.

Mildred is survived by two children, Jeanne Anderson of LaValle, WI, Craig Anderson (Laurel) of San Francisco, CA, grandchildren, Danielle Schindler (Fran) of Oconomowoc, WI, their children, Thomas and Autumn, son-in-law, Jerry Robbins (Peggy) of South Haven, MN, twin granddaughters, Lindsay Robbins of Fairbault, MN, and her children, Annabelle and Quincy, Melanie Robbins of Cosmos, MN, and her children, Dominic and Kaitlyn, and numerous other wonderful friends. God made her special family to Kyra Simono of LaValle, WI, Tricia Beaulieu (Brian) and their children Samantha, McKenna and Evan, and Christopher Simono (Kelly) and their daughter, Kendall.

She is preceded in death by husband, Duane, daughter Suzanne Anderson Robbins, sister, Imogene Helland and mother and father, Sema and Otto Helland. 

DUGGER FUNERAL HOMES 
111 LUICKS LANE SOUTH  
PO BOX 233  
BELMOND, IOWA 50421
(641) 444-3248
www.duggerfunerals.com

ELSIE E MEYER
December 14,1914 - June 14, 2013

Elsie E. Meyer, age 98, of Belmond, passed away Friday, June 14, 2013, at the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond.

Funeral services for Elsie Meyer are tentatively set for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 22, at the United Methodist Church in Belmond. Pastor Jim Gochenouer will officiate. Burial will be in the Belmond Cemetery.

Visitation for Elsie Meyer will be from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 21, at the Dugger Funeral Home, 111 Luick’s Lane S. in Belmond, and continues one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday.

Elsie Elaine, the daughter of Ben and Martha Steenblock Daniels was born Dec. 14, 1914, in Palsville, Iowa. She graduated from Belmond High School in 1932. On December 12, 1932 Elsie married James “Jim” Joseph O’Connor Jr. The couple resided in the Belmond area where they operated O’Connor Truck Line. Together they had four children Michael “Mike”, Douglas O’Connor, James Malcom “Mally” O’Connor, Constance “Coni” Martha O’Connor Stetson and Robert “Bob” John O’Connor. She was a devoted wife and loving mother.

After O’Connor Truck Line she worked for Hansel Brothers, in the egg department; first as a candler and later as a grader. She also worked for some time for the Belmond Chamber of Commerce.
On Aug. 11, 1979, she married Gerhardt “Sam” Meyer in the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They lived in farm in Webster City, during the marr

Elsie is survived by her sons, Michael (Ruth) of Long Beach, Calif. and Robert (Bonnie) of Stockbridge, Ga.; 10 grandchildren, Debra Lee (O’Connor) Kohr, Michele Lynn (O’Connor) DeLapp, Shawn Teresa (O’Connor) Harvey, Staci Robin (O’Connor) Reeter, Shannon Patrick O’Connor Sr., Daryl Lynn (Stetson) Ridgeway, Michael Damion Stetson, Stephanie Nicole (Stetson) Nelson, Rory John O’Connor and Paige Renae (O’Connor) Sale, as well as 16 great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Martha; father, Ben; brothers, Bernard and Peter “Pete”; sister, Janette Mosiman; son, Malcom; daughter, Constance “Coni” Stetson; great grandson, Shannon O’Connor Jr.; and husbands, Jim O’Connor and Sam Meyer.

During her life, she was a member of Eastern Star, where she served as organist for some time. She was also a member of the Methodist Church. Elsie loved fishing, gardening, canning, baking, dancing and both listening to and making music. She played the violin, piano and the organ.

Dugger Funeral Home, Belmond, 641-444-3248 , www.duggerfunerals.com.

Posted on 7 July 2013 by Jay Lehmann