Donald Chevalier

Donald O. Chevalier, 89, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, September 6, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital and Clinics in West Union. 

He was born on June 21, 1928, at home in Dundee, the son of Freeman and Hattie (Goranson) Chevalier.  Don attended country school near St. Sebald and then graduated from Strawberry Point High School in 1946.  He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country honorably during WWII.

On April 30, 1949, Don was united in marriage to Evelyn Pfrommer in Strawberry Point. The couple began their married life in Strawberry Point. 

Don worked as the parts manager at James Implement in Strawberry Point.  They moved to Cedar Falls and he then worked at Brown Implement.  The family returned to Strawberry Point and Don worked at Seedorf Masonry.  He became the vice president of the company and remained there until the time of his retirement. Evelyn passed away on March 21, 2011.  

Don loved traveling with Evelyn. He also enjoyed dancing, golfing, and bowling.  Tractors were a special interest in Don’s life since his days growing up on the farm. He was especially fond of Farmall and International Harvester.  He was a longtime member of the Strawberry Point Lions Club, receiving the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship Award in 2009.  This award is the highest form of recognition and embodies humanitarian ideas consistent with the nature and purpose of Lionism. 

Don was a longtime member of the Emanuel Lutheran and Mission in Christ Lutheran Churches in Strawberry Point. He was a longtime active member of the Strawberry Point American Legion Post # 218. He loved his family and cherished spending time with them.  

Survivors include his five children, Pamela (Jerry) McManigle of Waucoma, Susan (Monte) Barker of Hazleton, Terri (David) Gould of Strawberry Point, Randal Chevalier of Oelwein, and James (Brooke) Chevalier of State Center; 14 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. 

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Evelyn; one grandson, Mark McManigle; and his siblings, Marvin Chevalier, Mildred Thurn, Darrell Chevalier, LaVerne Chevalier, Maurice Chevalier and Darlene Brady.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com. 

Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, September 11, 2017, at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Strawberry Point, with Reverend Susan Friedrich officiating. 

Interment with Military Rites:  Cass Township Cemetery - Strawberry Point, Iowa.

Joann Vanover

Joann Laurene Vanover, 76 years of age, of Beatrice, Nebraska,  passed away at the Goldcrest Retirement Center in Adams Monday night, September 4, 2017.

She was born on October 22, 1940 in Beatrice to David and Hazel (Danks) Wherry. She lived in Beatrice most of her life, and was a graduate of Beatrice High School in 1959.

At age 10, she was baptized and became a member of the West Side Baptist Church in Beatrice and later had been a member of the choir and helped clean and decorate the church.  

As a teenager, she had worked as a babysitter, and at A&W Root Beer, Hested’s, and Montgomery Wards. Later she worked for Formfit Rogers, and McDonalds for 13 years. Joann married her high school sweetheart Billie Vanover on June 4, 1959 at the West Side Baptist Church in Beatrice. To this union two daughters were born, Pam Ray and Lori Wagers. They lived in Springfield, MO from 1988 until moving back home in 1999. 

Joann worked for the Montclair Retirement Center in Springfield, and for Kids Korner Day Care in Beatrice before retiring in 2002 to babysit a newborn grandson that was born on her birthday. 

Joann loved attending her grandchildren and great grandchildren activities, baking pies (especially Apple Pie), sewing, shopping, and loved to clean and decorate her home. 

Members of Joann’s family still live in the area. Survivors include 2 daughters, Pam Ray (Jeff) of Wymore, and Lori Wagers (Scott) of Diller; 6 grandchildren Tyler Ray (Liz), Ashley Weyers (Craig), Accassia Saathoff, Jayde Blythe (Travis), Trey Saathoff, and Chance Earnhart; 7 great grandchildren, and one more on the way; sisters in law Belinda Wherry, Barbara Wherry, Carolyn Vanover, and Lois Bernadt; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents David & Hazel Wherry; husband Billie Vanover (2016); brothers Larry & Jerry Wherry; brothers in law Jake Vanover and Lee Borgman ; and several nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services were held at 10:30 AM Friday, September 8, 2017 at the West Side Baptist Church with Jon Palmquist officiating. Interment was in the Evergreen Home Cemetery.

A family prayer service was held at 10:15 AM Friday at the church.

A memorial has been established to the church with the funeral home in charge. Sign Joann’s online guest book and watch her video tribute when completed at www.ghchapel.com. 

These services have been entrusted to the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Beatrice, Nebraska.

John Murray

 John T. Murray entered this world on August 25, 1926. The son of Madge (Cline) Murray and Thomas F. Murray, John spent his childhood in and around Wadena, Iowa. Four younger sisters and three younger brothers were added to the family over the following years.

He entered the US Navy on August 24, 1943, just 1 day before his 17th birthday. He claimed that since he had no birth certificate, the recruiter simply made up a birth date on his paperwork, enabling him to enlist. According to John while he was still in high school, he was encouraged by a navy veteran to enter submarine service because the pay was better and subs had the best food in the Navy. “It was a thousand times better than I expected. It was as good as home cooking,  maybe better”, said John. It is probably a good thing his mother didn’t hear that.

 He attended diesel engine school and submarine school in New London, Connecticut and was assigned to the USS Aegir, AS-23, a sub tender in Hawaii. The first submarine that John went on was the S-28. Usually members of the relief crew relieved 10 percent of each sub crew. John and 7 other relief crewmembers got off the S-28 on a Friday and on the following Monday the S-28 sank, taking 49 crewmembers with her. A few days later Murray and a fellow sailor, Frank Maney, were told that one of them was needed on another sub. They flipped a coin and Maney won (lost?) the toss so he boarded the USS Snook. The USS Snook went down in April of 1945 with Frank Maney and 83 other crewmen. John said that for a flip of the coin he was still alive.

 John served on 7 submarines before attending nuclear power school and being assigned to the USS George Washington. He said the difference between the regular subs and the nuclear submarines was like the difference between night and day. John served on the USS George Washington, the first Polaris class nuclear submarine, until retiring with an honorable discharge on August 24, 1963 . . . the culmination of twenty years beneath the sea. Following his retirement he became a millwright and worked all over the United States for the following 40 years.

 Over the years he and his wife Mary never failed to attend reunions with the surviving submariners he had served with in the past. At the reunion he attended in 1994, the first skipper of the USS Rock attended the event. “He looked at me for several minutes. Then he said, “I remember you. You were the 12 year-old kid in the forward engine room.”

 John had many adventures during his navy service but his biggest adventure was meeting Mary Ambrose and marrying her. She was a faithful navy wife, following him around the country raising their two children; John C. Murray of San Francisco and Jeanne M. Murray-Pinkman (Mark) of Austin, Texas.

 John passed away on May 11, 2017, and was preceded in death by his wife Mary, his father Thomas, his mother Madge, his stepfather Martin Anderson, sisters Mary, Yvonne, Sheila and Patricia, and his brothers Robert and Byron. He is survived by his son John, daughter Jeanne, son-in-law Mark Pinkman, brother Jere (John) and many nieces and nephews.

 He was proud to be an American and for having served his country during the Korean War, World War II and Vietnam. His family will miss his tough exterior and his stories from his glory days.

 His remains will be laid to rest next to those of his beloved wife, Mary at the St. Joseph Cemetery on September 23, at 11:00 with a lunch to follow at the Wadena Legion Hall, Wadena.                  

Berniece Walsh

Funeral Services and Mass of Christian Burial for Berniece E. Walsh, 100, of Bettendorf will be 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2017 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 4097 18^th St. Bettendorf. 

Visitation will be Wednesday at St. John Vianney from 9 a.m. until service time.   

Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Davenport.

Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. 

Mrs. Walsh died Sept. 16, 2017 at Kahl Home in Davenport, surrounded by her loving family.

Berniece E. Stelzmiller was born Sept. 2, 1917 in Arlington, IA, the daughter of Henry and Nellie (Manson) Stelzmiller.  

Berniece was united in marriage to John R. “Dick” Walsh on June 20, 1945 in Boise, ID. She cherished her 66 years with Dick. He preceded her in death on May 8, 2012. 

She was a member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church. 

She was a wife, homemaker, musician, needle crafter, teacher, grandma, sister and friend to all. Berniece wanted it known that she always read the sports section of the paper first.

Memorials may be made to St John Vianney Catholic Church. 

Survivors include her six children: James (JoAnn) Walsh, Elm Grove, Wis., Thomas Walsh, Washington, D.C., Margaret Walsh, Bettendorf, Robert (Susan) Walsh, Fairfax Station, Va., Mary Jane (Michael) Deavers, Ashburn, Va., and Barbara (Jill) Walsh, Bettendorf; seven grandchildren; and a sister-in law, Grace Walsh, West Des Moines. 

Berniece was preceded in death by her husband, and a sister, Mildred Bennington.                                  Online remembrances at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.

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David Gage

David Lee Gage, 41, of West Des Moines passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017, in Des Moines. 

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at a later date.

  Known to friends and family as “Gage,” he was born Jan. 17, 1976, in Waterloo. 

He received his education from North Fayette High School in West Union. He loved playing football in high school and was part of the 1992 state championship team. 

Gage enjoyed working as assistant manager at Ace Hardware, helping customers for many years. 

He loved sports, especially the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago Bears and the Iowa Hawkeyes. 

Gage was a kind, gentle and caring man who could not turn away a stray animal. He loved music and spending time with his wife and friends. Gage loved making people laugh and believed his sense of humor was a gift from God.

He is survived by his wife, Melanie (Wood) Gage of West Des Moines; his father and mother, Robert and Mardene Gage of Solon; his sister Marcy (Brad) Wymer of Iowa City; his nephew Jordan Wymer of Fayette; his sister Stacy (Bill) Peterson of Dubuque; his sister Kristi (Pete) Montgomery of Iowa Falls; his niece Alyssa (Eric) Miller of Des Moines; his father- and mother-in-law, Neal and Kathy Wood of Traer; his brother-in-law, Matthew Wood of Traer; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Gage was preceded in death by his sister Amy Manross; his nephew Tanner Wymer; his maternal grandparents, Deane and Mary Davis; and his paternal grandparents, Levi and Alberta Gage.     38u38

David Smith

David J. Smith, 66, of Randalia, died Monday, Sept. 11, 2017, at his rural Randalia home surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 18, 2017, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye with Rev. Jim Harbaugh officiating.  

Interment followed at the Hawkeye Cemetery. 

Becker-Milnes Funeral Home, Hawkeye, was in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be directed to the family for designation at a later date. 

Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com. 

David Joseph, son of Robert and Elizabeth “Betty” (Holtzman) Smith was born Sept. 13, 1950, in Peoria, Ill.

He was baptized in the Lutheran Faith in Illinois and would later be confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Oelwein. 

In 1955, the Smith family moved to rural Oelwein.

David graduated from West Central High School in 1968, and would continue his education at Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis. While in high school, he worked at Rueber’s Chevrolet in Westgate, and also following his time at Dunwoody. 

On July 11, 1970, he was united in marriage with Peggy Fox at St Francis of Assisi in Fayette. The couple would later divorce. 

David ran the Shell Station in Oelwein from 1972 until 1975, when he moved to the farm in rural Randalia. He began farming in the spring of 1976, and did so up until his health no longer permitted. In addition to crop farming he also raised hogs, cows, chickens, and sheep. David was able to have his career also be his passion. 

In 1991, David met Charlene and the couple has been together for 26 years. David was an excellent trap shooter, enjoyed working on machinery, watching his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt, Sr., and reading.

David is survived by his spouse, Charlene; three children and 10 grandchildren, Angie (Jeremy) Hundley of Waterloo and Rylee and Drew, Heidi (Neil) Wilkinson of Fairbank and Tate and Cael, and Derek (Heidi Eitel) and Maeley, Nile, Myla, and Isabell, Lilli, and Blake; step-son, Matthew (Sunny) Schwirtz of California and families; one brother, Chuck (Judy) Smith of Oelwein; one sister, Debbie (Randy) Toenjes of Anamosa; one brother-in-law, John (Sandy) Blaess of Decorah; several nieces and nephews; and beloved companion, Willie.

He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Sadie Smith; step-daughter, Judy Schwirtz; step-granchildren, Hunter and Josie Schwirtz.

David always enjoyed going uptown for coffee or happy hour to spend time with friends, but one of David’s greatest joys was seeing his grandchildren.

Larry Miles

Larry Lorraine Miles, 75, of Elgin died Monday, Sept. 11, 2017 at his home in Elgin. 

Larry was born Nov. 9, 1941 to Virgil and Elna (Robinson) Miles in Aurora. 

He graduated from Valley High School in 1959. 

After graduation, Larry joined the United States Navy in 1960 and proudly served until 1962 as a first-aid attendant in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Vietnam, Guam, Hawaii and Hong Kong. He was involved in the Cuban Missile Crisis in the Bay of Pigs. Larry later served in the Naval Reserve.

Larry was united in marriage with Marcia Dennler on March 9, 1974. Two daughters were born to this union, Sherri Lynn and Kristi Ione.

As a young man he began working at Falb Implement in the parts department, later moving to Standard Oil delivering LP gas. He also worked for Fauser Oil briefly before returning to Falb Implement as parts manager.  He worked at Falb Implement for what would be a total of 35 years. 

Together with his wife Marcia, Larry farmed and raised cattle and hogs. 

In his retirement, he worked at ShaKerr Farms, assisting with farm work and attending to the hired families. Additionally, Larry spent time helping local Amish families with transportation to and from job sites.

Larry grew up attending the Illyria Church and later joined the Highland Lutheran Church. 

His greatest joy was being a grandpa. His grandchildren knew how proud he was of them. Larry eagerly looked forward to their visits and calls.

Larry is survived by his wife, Marcia Miles of Elgin; two daughters, Sherri (Ron) Imoehl of West Union and Kristi (Jeff) Shoultz of McKinney, Texas; five grandchildren, Madison, Brennan and Chase Imoehl and Jillian and Lauren Shoultz; sisters, Marilyn (Norm) Leeman and Julie (Rick) Myott; sister-in-law; Sandy Miles; brother-in-law, Clair Clubine; in-laws, Joel and Kathy Gabrielson and Dan and Sue Winter; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Elna Miles; his brother, Randy Miles; his sister, Ann Clubine; and mother- and father-in-law, Albert and Ione Dennler.

Funeral Services were at 11 am on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017 at Highland Lutheran Church, rural Elkader, with Rev. David Coffin as the Officiant.

Burial followed at Illyria Cemetery, rural Elgin, with Military Honors.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elgin helped the family with arrangements.    38u38

Geraldine Kelly

Geraldine M. Kelly, 76, of Maynard, Iowa died on Monday morning, September 18, 2017 at Allen Memorial Hospital – Unity Point in Waterloo.

Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Thursday, September 21, 2017 at the First Presbyterian Church, Maynard with Rev. John Kerr officiating.

Visitation:  4:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Maynard and for one hour before the service at the church on Thursday.

Interment: Long Grove Cemetery, Maynard.

A Memorial Fund has been established in her name.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Geraldine Marie Polk was born October 18, 1940, at Stanley, Iowa, the daughter of Gerald H. and Helen Edith (Ross) Polk.  She graduated from Stanley Consolidated High School in the class of 1958.  On October 14, 1961, she was united in marriage to Gordon Ernest Kelly at the First Baptist Church in Independence.  To this union they were blessed with five children, Galen, Glenda, Gary, Gerold and Garla.  Geraldine was employed for five years by Northwestern Bell Telephone Company in Independence and Oelwein.  She did babysitting in her home for 23 years, retiring due to health reasons.

Geraldine was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Maynard.  She enjoyed cooking, baking cookies, flowers, camping, playing cards and listening to country music.

Geraldine is survived by her husband, Gordon Kelly of Maynard;

2 sons, Galen (Michele) Kelly of Fayette and

Gary (Lisa) Kelly of Fayette;

daughter, Garla Rader of Osage;

daughter-in-law, Tina Snyder of Winthrop;

9 grandchildren, Amanda Kelly, Travis Kelly, Sasha (Ronnie) Hoover, Amber Snyder, Nace Waterman, Hunter Kelly, Jared Kelly, Jacob Kelly and Keaton Kelly;

1 great grandson, Ryden Hoover;

2 sisters-in-law, Mary Polk of West Union and

Janet Polk of Oelwein;

and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Glenda on May 15, 1968; son, Gerold on May 20, 2014; and 3 brothers, Eldon Polk, Duane Polk & Weldon Polk.

Onalee Oakes

Onalee Baker Oakes, 90, of Maynard, died on Sunday morning, Sept. 24, 2017 at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.

Funeral Service:  4:30 P.M. Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017 at the West Central School Gymnasium, Maynard, with Pastor Julie Ahrens officiating.

Visitation:  3 to 8 P.M. on Tuesday at Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Maynard and from 4 to 4:30 P.M. on Wednesday at the school.

Interment:  Long Grove Cemetery, Maynard, Iowa.

A Memorial Fund has been established for the West Central Playground Equipment Fund.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Onalee JoAnn Coleman was born on Jan. 13, 1927 in Westgate, Iowa, the daughter of Leo Sydney & Vera (Finch) Coleman.  

She graduated from Maynard High School.  

Onalee received her Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education from Upper Iowa University in Fayette and her superintendent’s certificate and master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls.  

Onalee began her career in education in 1944 by teaching in a one-room schoolhouse near Strawberry Point.  She started teaching at West Central in Maynard in 1959.  She eventually progressed to elementary principal to junior high principal to high school principal to superintendent for 17 years, retiring after 47 years in education in 1991. Onalee was the only woman superintendent in Iowa when she started her position at West Central.  She will be remembered as an educator who really cared about the children, staff and alumni of West Central School.

Onalee was united in marriage to Harvey Dean Baker in 1947. The family lived on their farm near Westgate.  Harvey died in 1976.  

Onalee later married Leland Archer Oakes on Nov. 16, 1979 in Rochester, Minn. They lived on an acreage near Randalia for many years. 

After the death of Lee in 2002, Onalee moved to Maynard and then to Maple Crest Assisted Living in Fayette.

Onalee was a member of Grace United Methodist Church and previously a member of the Order of the Eastern Star both in Oelwein.  

In her younger years, Onalee enjoyed dancing.

Onalee is survived by her son: Scott (Dayna) Baker of Maynard; two grandchildren:  Caleb (Cara) Baker of Maynard and Jared (Ali) Baker of Reinbeck; four great grandchildren:  Beckett Baker, Brice Baker, Allen Baker and Olivia Baker and several stepchildren, nieces and nephews.

Onalee was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands: Harvey Baker on Feb. 16, 1976 and Lee Oakes on June 25, 2002; and three brothers: Lee Coleman, Lanais Coleman and Rollis Coleman.         39u39

Bill Corkery

William “Bill” Vincent Corkery, 86, of Marion, formerly of Wadena, passed away peacefully Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017, at his home. 

The family was to greet friends 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2017, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service, in Marion. 

Funeral Services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017, at the funeral home. 

Burial will take place at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Wadena Cemetery, Wadena.

  Bill was born May 1, 1931, in Wadena, Iowa, the son of William and Nica (Fay) Corkery. 

He graduated from Wadena High School. 

Bill served in the United States Navy during the Korean War.

On Oct. 1, 1957, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Bachman in Iowa City. 

Bill was employed with Rockwell in the Tool and Die Department until retiring in 1989.

  Bill is survived by his wife, Marilyn; daughter, Cindy (Gary) Collins of Marion; sons, Blaine (Mary) Corkery of Marion and Bradford (Sharon) Corkery of Coggon; grandchildren Jillian, Christiana, Amanda, Amber, Stephanie, Brandon, Brea, Tanya, Tara, Justin, and Heather; several great-grandchildren; and brothers, Charles Corkery of Manchester, Ellis Corkery of Lisbon, Paul (Beverly) Corkery of Dysart, Steve (Kathy) Corkery of Wadena and Tim Corkery of West Union.

  He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Jeanne, JoAnne, Jane and Barbara.

  Please share a memory of Bill at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under Obituaries.  39u39

Shirley Schmitt

Shirley Ann (Croatt) Schmitt, age 76, of St. Lucas, IA died Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017 at the Barthell Eastern Star Nursing Home in Decorah from complications of Parkinson’s. Her husband and children were with her by her side.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by the Rev. Kyle Digmann on Thursday, Sept. 14, at St. Luke Catholic Church in St. Lucas.

The casketbearers were Shirley’s grandsons, Darren Schmitt, Alexander Schmitt, Justin Fonley, Hunter Baumler, Caleb Kuennen, and           Riley Schmitt.

Interment was held in St. Luke Catholic Cemetery, St. Lucas, Iowa.

Arrangements were handled by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home in Decorah. 

Shirley Ann (Croatt) Schmitt was born on April 7, 1941 to John and Blanche (Tierney) Croatt on the family farm near Waucoma, IA. 

Shirley graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Waucoma in 1959. 

She was united in marriage to Alex A. Schmitt on Oct. 15, 1960 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waucoma, IA. They were blessed with six children: Dennis, Darrell, Dean, Mary Lynn, Nancy and Wayne. She farmed with her husband, while raising their six children. 

Shirley enjoyed gardening, baking, going to garage sales, attending grandkids sporting events and going to the casino. Her favorite room in the house was her kitchen, where she found great pleasure in baking and hosting many family gatherings.  Her greatest joy came from spending time with her 21 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Shirley and Alex loved the vacations they took with friends over the years.  

Shirley was a member of the Legion Auxiliary, National Catholic Order of Foresters, St. Luke Catholic Church and Rosary Society.

Shirley is survived by her devoted husband, Alex, of 56 years of St. Lucas, IA, along with their six children and their spouses: Dennis (Glenda) Schmitt, St. Lucas, IA, Darrell (Tammy) Schmitt, Spillville, IA, Dean (Cheryl) Schmitt, St. Lucas, IA, Mary Lynn (Brad) Baumler, Grimes, IA, Nancy (Deano) Kuennen, Granger, IA and Wayne (Denise) Schmitt, Waucoma, IA; 21 grandchildren: Darren (Carley) Schmitt, Brian (Dana) Schmitt, Brad (Brittany) Schmitt, Derek Schmitt, Jordan Schmitt, Alexander Schmitt, Ty Schmitt, Cole Schmitt, Gracie Schmitt, Justin (Morgan) Fonley, Brandon Schmitt, Hunter Baumler, Carter Baumler, Trever Baumler, Caleb Kuennen, Cade Kuennen, Regan Schmitt, Riley Schmitt, Raquel Schmitt, Ryann Schmitt, Rolin Schmitt; our great grandchildren: Seamus Fonley,  Kora Fonley,  Ellie Schmitt and Brynnlee Schmitt; one sister: Dorma (Dale) Wieck; one brother: Gerald Croatt; two brothers-in-law: Edmund (Norma) Schmitt, West Union, IA; and Gerald (Rosetta) Schmitt, St. Lucas, IA; sisters-in-law: Elaine Croatt, Lawler, IA, Lucy (Urban) Dietzenbach, Cresco, IA and Helen Noska, West Union, IA.     

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents: John and Blanche Croatt; mother- and father-in-law William and Anna (Kuennen) Schmitt; brother: David Croatt; three sisters-in-law and their husbands: Rita in infancy, Della (Leo) Langreck and Irma (Leonard) Bullerman; brothers-in-law Arthur (Agnes) Schmitt and Gene Noska.          39u39

Richard Williams

Richard R. Williams, 71, of Decorah, formerly of West Union, died early Wednesday morning, Sept. 20, 2017, after a hard battle with cancer. 

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Dick Williams

Richard R. Williams, 71, of Decorah went home to be with the Lord, family, and his friends on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2017 after a hard battle with Glioblastoma.

Richard Williams was born Oct. 27, 1945 at St. Mary's Hospital in Minneapolis, Minn., to Earl and Mary (Goodlet) Williams. He grew up in a house on Lake Minnetonka with his father, mother, and sister Carolyn. 

In 1964 he graduated from Minnetonka High School. Shortly after, Richard proudly joined and served in the United States Army Reserves for 15 years. 

He was hired by Northwestern Bell in 1967 where he met his soulmate and best friend Suzanne Bury. 

On Oct. 4, 1969 they were united in marriage at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Fridley, Minn. Officiating was Reverend Oliver “Ollie” Olson. 

Richard and Sue chose their son Bradley. Richard loved Bradley unconditionally and it showed over the years. 

He worked at Northwestern Bell for 10 years. In 1977 he went to college to be a paramedic and worked at North Memorial Hospital in Robinsdale, Minn., from 1977 to 1992, first being a paramedic and later in his career at North in Administrative Ambulance Operations. In 1992 Richard became an independent ambulance billing consultant and did that for three years.

The family lived in and around the Twin Cities until 1995 when they moved to West Union, Iowa where he was employed by Sweet Computer Services for many years doing ambulance service billing. 

They later moved to Decorah in 2003 where they have lived ever since.

Richard was an active and faithful member of West Union United Methodist Church for over 20 years. He was instrumental in the creation, implication, and running of the audio/video recording system the church utilizes for services and many other events.

Richard enjoyed his home very much, some would call him a “homebody”, his favorite place in his house was his “workshop.” He found great pleasure in tinkering with gadgets and building computers, but he also very much enjoyed creating and building household furniture for his house. 

He was an avid Minnesota Vikings and Twins fan. Richard was known by his family for his cooking and especially for his homemade spaghetti and made from scratch stir-fry in his wok. 

He built many amazing memories with family and friends over the years that will be shared for many years to come. He had an exceptional work ethic, possessed a strong moral character and loved his family so very dearly.

Richard was very blessed with amazing family and friends and when he became ill with a brain tumor his friends and family stayed by him loving, encouraging, supporting, and praying for him. He truly knew how much he was loved. 

Richard is survived by his wife Sue and son Bradley (Megan) Williams. 

He was proceeded in death by his parents Earl and Mary (Goodlet) Williams, sister Carolyn (Johnson) Williams, brother-in-law Owen Johnson, grandparents John and Maude (Bohring) Williams, grandparents R.G. and Lily (Kinder) Goodlet, and great-grandparents Franklin and Nancy (Pemberton) Williams.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.     40u40

Robert Holm

Funeral services for Robert A. “Bob” Holm, 83, of West Union were held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in West Union.

Burial was in the West Union Cemetery.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service assisted the family with arrangements.

Bob’s death occurred on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2017, in Winfield, Ill.

Robert Allen Holm was born Sept. 25, 1934, in Bremer County, Iowa. His parents, ReVern and Anna (Fitz) Holm, were blessed with three sons, Robert, Jerry and Randy.  

Bob was baptized and later confirmed at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denver, Iowa.  

Robert graduated from Denver High School in 1952.     He attended Wartburg College, where he and his wife, Marlene, met in 1954.  

On May 30, 1956, Bob was united in marriage with Marlene Schultz at Trinity Lutheran Church in Endicott, Wash. They were blessed with three daughters, Theresa, Kimberly, and Cynthia. 

Throughout their 60 years of married life, Bob and Marlene lived primarily in West Union, then moved to Harpers Ferry and later returned to West Union for almost two years before Bob made Carol Stream, Ill., his final home after Marlene’s passing in 2016.  

After Bob served in the United States Marines, he was a farm hand, then worked at John Deere before becoming a State Farm Insurance agent in West Union. He retired from State Farm in September 2000 after 40 years with the company.  He said he was never a good salesman, but he was successful because he earned the clients’ trust.  

While living in West Union, Bob participated in Jaycees for several years, coached Little League baseball, taught Sunday school for decades, and was a leader for Luther League for many years. Bob could always be found with a stopwatch at the finish line of every cross country and track meet for years and years in West Union.  

He served on the Recreation Board for West Union and under his leadership saw that Rotary Park was built in West Union. In addition, he served several years on the Harpers Ferry town council.  

After returning to West Union a few years ago, he would be found going to many of the activities of the high school sports teams and tooling around town in his golf cart or motorized chair.

On weekends and vacations, Bob could always be found on the Mississippi River.  He enjoyed fishing, driving his boat, pulling water skiers and tubers. The number of family, friends and kids he pulled behind his boat is in the hundreds.  Friends were always welcome at “the river.” He loved to clean fish and taught many how to perform the task with the least loss of flesh.

After retiring full-time to Harpers Ferry, Bob volunteered at all of the community events there. He was a “bottle sorter” for the ongoing library fundraiser for many years. He had a keen eye for the bottles with a deposit.   

Bob was a lover of games and competition.  He was a high school and college athlete in basketball and baseball, being a standout lefty pitcher. He kept his competitive fever by attending nearly every activity and game in which his children participated, then attending those of his grandchildren.  He loved to play cards and board games, happily playing with his family at any point, and always had “game night.”   

Most of all, Bob loved spending time with family and was a devoted father and grandfather, and he recently became a great-grandfather. 

Bob had a huge smile and addictive laugh. He remembered the names of everyone, calling them by name, and always had a large circle of great friends. He had an older life philosophy of getting up every morning and making it a good day, despite health restrictions.

He and Marlene celebrated their 60^th wedding anniversary in May 2016, and he always referred to her as “my bride.”  He loved to work with her at making noodles, sauerkraut, canning and freezing. He always had a garden and willingly helped Marlene on these projects.

Bob lived his last year in Carol Stream, Ill., at Belmont Village Assisted Living. Being the social guy that he was, this was a good life for him as a widower. This gave him a chance to meet new friends and spend more time with his Chicagoland family, and he took full advantage of all that this opportunity offered. He went out on many sightseeing adventures. 

Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene, in 2016; a daughter, Kimberly in 2014; his brother, Randy, in 1968; and his parents, ReVern and Anna Holm. 

He is survived by his brother, Jerry (Jan) Holm of Bella Vista, Ark.; two daughters, Theresa (Doug) Meyer of West Chicago, Ill., and Cynthia Holm of West Union; a son-in-law, Keith Hudon of St. Charles, Ill.; seven grandchildren, Jeremy (Nikki) Meyer,  Brittany (Tom)  Fiebrandt, Nicholas Klendworth, Ethan Meyer, Luke Reicks, Tyler Hudon and Rachel Reicks; and one very much adored great-granddaughter, Vivan Kimberly Meyer; his second great-grandchild is due to arrive in early December.

Memorials made be made to THE SPLASH PAD, c/o Harpers Ferry Booster Club, P.O. Box 162, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146 or to the West Union Recreation Foundation, P.O. Box 363, West Union, IA 52175.      40u40

John Gass

John Charles Gass, 80, of Clermont, Iowa died Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017 at Strawberry Point Lutheran Home, Strawberry Point, Iowa. 

John was born on Nov. 16, 1936 to Herbert Hugo Alphonso and Flossie (Fay) Gass in Postville, Iowa. 

He graduated from Clermont High School in 1955.  

John was united in marriage with Vivian Mae Easler on Feb. 2, 1958 at West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont, Iowa. Three children were born to this union. 

In his younger years, John hauled milk and started what became an over 40 year career of driving a school bus.  He later became head custodian at Valley Community Schools as well. 

John joined the National Guard in 1956 and served until 1962. 

He joined the Clermont Fire Department in 1970 and was fire chief for at least 18 years. He also became an EMT in 1977.  

John was initiated into Freemasonry at Clermont Lodge #160 on Dec. 19, 1957. He obtained his second degree on March 13,1958 and then became a Master Mason on April 10, 1958. He obtained his 33^rd Degree as a member of the York Rite and was a member of the Northeast Iowa Shrine from 1976-1995. He was also a Worshipful Master of the Clermont Lodge.  

John was Mayor for the City of Clermont from 1972 until 1979, president of the God’s Acres Cemetery Board, and a lifetime member of West Clermont Lutheran Church.   

In his spare time, John enjoyed golfing, tinkering in his garage, fishing, listening to old country music, and being very active in the community. But most of all John loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  

John is survived by his three children, Kathy Lynn Havenstrite of Strawberry Point, David John (Dori) Gass of Nevada, Iowa and Melissa Fay Bushong Fiedler of Strawberry Point; four grandchildren, Mason Earl John (Ashley) Havenstrite, Jonathan David Gass, Olivia Maelynn Elise White and Evan Michael John Fiedler; two great-grandchildren, Aiden Dean Havenstrite and Bentley John Havenstrite; sister, Patricia (Don) Cowell of Spencer, and numerous nieces and nephews.  

John was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian; parents, Herbert and Flossie Gass; two siblings that died in infancy; and one son-in-law, Roger Havenstrite. 

Funeral Services were at 2 pm on Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017 at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, with Rev. Phillip Olson and Rev. Susan Friedrich as the Officiants.

Inurnment at God’s Acres, Clermont, at a later date.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, helped the family with arrangements.

    40u40

Linda Larson

Linda Lou (Winter) Larson, 67, of Liberty, Mo., passed away peacefully on Sept. 27, 2017, at her home surrounded by family. She died following complications from ALS. 

Linda was born Nov. 14, 1949, in West Union, Iowa. 

Linda worked 20 years as a customer service representative for Farmland Industries. 

Linda was a member of Liberty Christian Church, its Manna Class and was an active volunteer for Johnny's Cafe. She was also a volunteer grandma at Lewis and Clark Elementary in Liberty and Hawthorne Elementary in Kearney, Mo.  

Linda was also an avid bird watcher and her yard welcomed and fed many. 

She and her husband Larry traveled throughout the United States and especially enjoyed visiting national parks.  

Survivors include her husband of 45 years, Larry; daughters, Jennifer Barnes (Kyle) and Heather Renzelman (Jeff); granddaughter, Ava Barnes; siblings, Connie Dahlke (Bill), Lisa Schneider (Gary), Greg Larson (Wendy), Mary Gravert (Dave), Diane Benhart (Rick), Kathi Stuntz (Steve) and Pam Majewski (Dennis); as well as many nieces, nephews, their families, and many friends. She also leaves her beloved dog, Abbey.

Linda was preceded in death by her father, Richard Winter; mother, Vivian (Hanson) Larson; infant twin sister, Cinda Sue Winter; sister, Sharon Schroyer; brother, Allen Winter; and niece, Sarah Dahlke.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the ALS Association, Mid-America Chapter, 6950 Squibb Road, Suite 210, Mission, KS 66202.

A funeral service celebrating Linda's life was held at 10 am Monday, Oct. 2, at Liberty Christian Church in Liberty, Mo.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017 from 10-11 am at the Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa. 

Burial will follow in Marion Lutheran Cemetery, Gunder, Iowa.

Condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa is assisting the family with the arrangements.

You may also share a message with the family or sign an online guest book via www.parklawnfunerals.com.

Arrangements: Park Lawn Northland Chapel.   40u40

Duane Langerman

Duane Langerman, 60, of West Union passed away Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017 at his home with his family at his side. 

Duane Kent, the second child of Larry and Sandra (Thomas) Langerman, was born March 28, 1957 in West Union, Iowa.  

He attended Maywood Elementary and McKinstry Jr. High in Waterloo, and graduated from Fayette High School in 1975.  

He was baptized and confirmed at United Methodist Church in West Union. 

Duane was united in marriage with Diane Copp in 1978, who passed away. Later he was united in marriage to Edith (Edie) Behnken at United Methodist Church in 1987. 

Duane served as a cook in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Ashtabula. After his enlistment ended, Duane worked for the Iowa State Game and Fish for the summer of 1977. He worked for Wilbur Ford from 1977-1991. From 1991-2005 Duane was self-employed working construction. From 2005-2010 he worked for Lifeline in Sumner, and from 2010-2015 Duane worked at Captive Air in West Union.

Duane enjoyed most outdoor activities, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, woodworking, camping, hiking, and Tang Soo Do. He loved helping children with various activities, especially his grandchildren! He was also actively involved in church, Boy Scouts, Volga Valley Conservation Club, and American Legion Post #15.

Duane is survived by his wife of 30 years of marriage, Edith (Edie); his sons, Jeremiah (Cally) Schlee and grandchildren, Karley, Pacey, Suttyn, and Emery; Tony (fiancée, Irene Carrillo Gregorio); daughter, Bridget (Chris) Blue and grandchildren, Jay, Jayde, and Jackson; brother, Terry; sisters, Cheryl (Greg) Olson, Brenda Cue, LaRue “Rudy” (Rich) Brereton, brother-in-law, Duane (Carol) Behnken; sister-in-law, Nan (Mark) Barnes and many other family and friends.

Duane was preceded in death by his son, Jacob “Jake” Langerman; his parents, Larry and Sandy; younger brother, Anthony; his first wife, Diane; grandparents, Joseph and Orpha Langerman and Earl and Verle Thomas; and his father- and mother-in-law, Duane, Sr. and Jo-Ann Behnken and sister-in-law, Tammy Behnken.

Funeral Services with military rites were at 11 am on Friday, Sept. 29, 2017 at United Methodist Church, West Union, with Rev. Chris Ebbers as the Officiant.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, helped the family with the arrangements.         40u40

Michael Hackley

Michael Richard Hackley, 42, of Ocala, Florida (formerly of West Union, Iowa) died Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 along with his longtime love and mother of his children, Josephine “Josie” Schwirtz.  

Michael Richard, the son of David and Guadalupe “Lucy” (Medina Gallardo) Hackley, was born Aug. 3, 1975 in West Union, Iowa.

He graduated from North Fayette High School in 1993. 

After graduation, Mike worked for H&H Distribution and Martin Brothers as a Truck Driver. He was currently working at E-One Fire Truck Assembly in Ocala, Florida.

Mike and his longtime love, Josie, had five children. He was a devoted father.  He loved his five children dearly.  

Outside of spending every available moment he could with his children, his interests included racing, going to the casino, playing cards with his family, fishing, Iowa Hawkeyes and San Francisco 49ers football, and country music, especially Garth Brooks.  

Mike was also a member of “The Patriots” (Trump Supporters) and spent some time in “Facebook Jail” for his comments supporting Mr. Trump.  

God was a big part of his life and he was well known for his big heart and was loved by all who knew him.

Mike is survived by his children, Jayla Raine Marie, Caelon Michael Ferrell, Braedon Joseph Keegan, Jacob David James, and Iris Danielle Grace, all of Ocala, Florida; his parents, David and Lucy Hackley of West Union; siblings, David Jr. (Rhonda) Hackley of Paulina, La.; Glen (Kristina) Hackley of Washington, D.C.; Ellie (Bob) Hartwig of Dunlap, Iowa; Dina (Rick) Taylor of Clermont; Michelle (Christina) Hackley of Ottumwa; and Jaime (Kari) Hackley of West Union; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mike was preceded in death by his longtime love, Josie Schwirtz; maternal grandparents, Francisco Medina and Maria Gallardo; paternal grandparents, Howard and Doris Hackley; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.     

Celebration of Life Services were held Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017 at 1 pm at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services of West Union assisted the family with arrangements.     40u40

Doris Speer

Doris Ann Lauridsen Speer was born Aug. 18, 1943 in Storm Lake, IA to Lloyd and Lorna Lauridsen.

She passed on to her eternal home on Sept. 26, 2017, after being diagnosed with cancer in 2016.

Her body has been donated to Mayo Clinic. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

She moved with her family to a farm south of Grand Meadow, MN when she was four years old and resided there until she married in 1961.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Robert Speer, Rochester, MN; a daughter, Teresa Speer Bishop (Paul), Burlington, IA; two sons, Neal Speer (Ann) Albuquerque, NM, and Dean Speer (Lori) Powder Springs, Ga.; and one foster daughter, Joni Graves (Dean) Osage, IA. 

She is also survived by grandchildren, Joshua Bishop (Kim), Wapello, IA, Caryn Huisinga (Dale) Aplington, IA, Kylie Speer. Powder Springs, GA, Victoria McKeever, Cortland, NY, Coleman Speer, Albuquerque, NM. She was also blessed with precious great grandchildren and foster grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, LaMonte Lauridsen (Bootsie) of Baldwin City, KS; one sister, Katherine Lauridsen Speer (Dale), Elgin, MN;  a granddaughter, Samantha Ann Speer, Albuquerque, NM; and a nephew, Adrian Speer, Elgin, MN.

While in high school in Grand Meadow, MN Doris worked for Dr. Mori’s family as a nanny. 

After graduating from high school in 1961 she married Robert Speer and then worked in Dr. Mori’s medical office until 1963.

She and Robert and their family lived in numerous places in Minnesota and Iowa (including Fayette, IA) over the next several years, moving to Dryden, NY in 1985. While living in Dryden, Doris loved her career as the instructional technology facilitator at the high school for 20 years. While employed at Dryden high school, Doris served on the Teachers’ Center Policy Board. 

Doris and Bob were fortunate to enjoy extensive traveling over the years, visiting all 50 states.

In 2009 Doris and her husband moved to West Burlington, IA. While in West Burlington, Doris greatly enjoyed volunteering for Great River Hospice. She and her husband were members of Messiah Lutheran Church in Burlington and Doris enjoyed quilting with Messiah’s quilting group.

In June of 2017 Doris and her husband relocated to Rochester, MN to be closer to the Mayo Clinic for treatment of her cancer. They resided at Meadow Lakes assisted living.

Her faith and love for her family were the most important elements in her life. She was deeply grateful for the many golden friendships that she was privileged to have throughout the years. She was particularly grateful for the loving care and support she received from a special niece, LaVonne (Speer) Beck of Elgin, MN, in addition to the lifelong friendship and dedication of her friend Susie Kjeer, of Ostrander, MN.

She was at peace and looking forward to passing on to her eternal home.  In lieu of flowers, memorials suggested to Great River Hospice in Burlington, Iowa.

Raymond Herold

Raymond G. Herold, age 84, of Waucoma, IA, died on Sept. 29, 2017 at Regional Health Services in Cresco.

He had been residing most recently at Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Oct. 5 at 11 a.m. at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, St. Lucas, with burial following in the church cemetery. 

Visitation will be held on Oct. 4 from 4-7 p.m. at St. Luke’s Church.

Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home of Cresco is assisting the family.

  Raymond Herold was born on Jan. 13, 1933, the son of George and Margaret (Martin) Herold. 

He attended St. Luke’s Catholic School in St. Lucas, IA. 

After he finished school, Ray farmed with both of his parents until the death of his father in 1960. Ray continued to farm with his mother for another decade. After she became multiply disabled, Ray cared for her without wavering until her death in 1988. He remained active on his farm until March of 2017 when a series of illnesses led to a long hospitalization followed by a half year of nursing home care.

  Ray liked working with his herd of cattle and enjoyed the companionship of his farm dog, Benji. He liked to discuss current affairs and could lighten any mood with his quick-witted humor. Ray shared his wisdom with gentleness and he maintained his faith through many challenges. 

He will be fondly remembered by his family and friends for his kindness and strong independent spirit.

  Ray is survived by seven nephews: Edward (Inez) Kruse, Dennis Kruse, and Harvey Kruse, all of Cresco; Larry Kruse of Ankeny; Paul (Kelly) Kruse of Crown Point, IN; Joel (Patty) Kruse of Ridgeway; and Tom Herold of St. Michael, MN; four nieces: Margaret Herold of St. Michael, MN; Marilyn (Joe) Kollasch of Ames; Norine Kruse of Spokane, WA; and Sheila (Darren) Hovland of Plymouth MN; four great-nephews: Isaac Kruse, Jonathan and Jeffrey Kollasch, and Nathan Kruse; and three great-nieces: Elizabeth Kruse, her daughter Alexis, and Melia Kruse.

  He was preceded in death by his parents; two half-brothers and his sisters-in-law, Jerome (Romie) and Florence Herold, and Linus and Lucille Kruse; and two nephews, David Herold and Kevin Kruse.

Ray will be laid to rest in the first St. Joseph Casket which was built from the former St. Joseph Church pews.             40u40