Dr. Rudolph Kraus, 75, of Fayette, died Monday, October 2, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospitals and Clinics in West Union. Arrangements are pending with Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette. Please check www.beckermilnesrettig.com or call 563-578-3451 for further information.
Joan Martin, age 83, of West Union, IA (formerly of Calmar), died peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, Sept. 29, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union.
A graveside service was held Tuesday, Oct. 3, at St. Aloysius Catholic Cemetery in Calmar. The Rev. Donald Hawes officiated.
Casket bearers were Charles Barr, Gene Houdek, John Paul, and Tom Price.
Arrangements were handled by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home, French Chapel, in Calmar.
Joan Ann Martin was born at home in Calmar, IA on Nov. 18,1933 to Charles and Marcella (Houdek) Barr.
She attended school in Calmar.
She met her soulmate and the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Martin at Art’s Roller Rink in Ossian.
On March 26, 1951, Robert and Joan were united in marriage at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clermont by Father Robert Cooney. This union was blessed with two daughters: Patricia Ann and Donna Jean.
Joan lived in Calmar all of her married life. She enjoyed a wonderful and happy life with Bob and her daughters.
In earlier years, she worked at Phil’s Café in Calmar, at Calmar Manufacturing, did daycare in her home and was a stay at home mother raising her daughters.
She loved making wedding flowers, doing crafts of all kinds and entering many craft shows.
She was a loving wife and mother and made many friends throughout her lifetime. She enjoyed all the family get-togethers and birthday parties. Joan was an excellent cook and baker and loved going shopping and eating out at her favorite places with her daughters.
She touched the lives of everyone who knew and loved her. She will be dearly missed.
Joan is survived by her two daughters: Patricia (Tom) Price, Waterloo, and Donna Martin, Calmar; Yorkie Grand Puppy: Lilly; Brother: Roger Barr, Mason City; Nephew: Charles Barr (Marlene), Rochester, MN; Niece: Deb Higley, Northwood; many cousins.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Martin, in 1997; and her parents: Charles and Marcella (Houdek) Barr.
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Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” R. Kraus, 75, of Fayette died Monday, Oct. 2, 2017 at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital and Clinics in West Union surrounded by his loving family.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 6, 2017, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette with Rev. Don Komboh and Rev. James Brokman concelebrating.
Military Rites were conducted by American Legion Post 339 of Fayette following Mass.
In accordance with Rudy’s wishes, following the services his body was deeded to the University of Iowa for the advancement of medical research.
Becker-Milnes Funeral Home of Fayette was in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.
After a brief period as a practicing dentist in Kalona, Iowa, Rudy became “the village dentist” for Fayette in 1982, having graduated from Loras College and the University of Iowa Dental School.
Also a licensed pharmacist, Dr. Kraus served patients from around the country for 30 years until his retirement in 2012. His goal as a dentist was to improve the oral health of his patients as painlessly as possible while respecting their wishes. As much as he enjoyed his profession, it was the relationships he developed with his patients that he prized most.
Rudy served four years active duty in the United States Air Force, performing duties as an Ordinance Lieutenant in Thailand during the Vietnam Conflict. Later he became a member of the Iowa Army National Guard, serving as a dentist. He eventually transitioned to the Army Reserves, from which he retired as a Colonel in 2002. He continued his commitment to the country by becoming active in the American Legion Post 339 of Fayette.
Throughout his life Dr. Kraus was committed to serving his community beyond his role as the local dentist. He served as a member of the Fayette City Council, on the Upper Iowa Board of Trustees, the library Board of Trustees, and the city tree board. He was also a general cheerleader for Fayette and Upper Iowa University.
When he retired from his dental practice he became a hospice volunteer and served as member and chair of the Palmer Memorial Hospital Foundation Board.
He had also been an active lay minister at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette.
Rudy enjoyed many hobbies including running, gardening (was a master gardener), kayaking, and birding, but mostly anything his grandchildren did.
Rudy is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Martha (Wolfe) Kraus, and their children, Karl Kraus and wife Tiffany, Sarah Waldoch and husband Chad, Kate Miller and husband Chris, Maggie Gardner and husband Mark, and grandchildren Zach DeClusin (24), Isabelle Gardner (19), Kohl Kraus (17), Sierra Arthur (16), Chloe Gardner (15), Abby Kraus (14), Ben Miller (13), Cameron Gardner (11), Ruby Gardner (7) and Sophia Gardner (7) and one sister, Mary Kraus.
Rudy was preceded in death by one son, Benedict Matthew Kraus; his parents, Richard and Marjorie (Falconer) Kraus; a brother, John; and sister-in-law, Gloria.
Memorials may be made in Rudy’s name to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette, Palmer Memorial Foundation, Fayette Community Library or North Fayette Valley Fine Arts Boosters. 41u41
Dale Dwight Halverson, 86, of West Union, Iowa died Thursday, October 5, 2017 at the Good Samaritan Society in West Union, Iowa. Dale was born September 8, 1931 to Elmer and Maude (Sprague) Halverson on a farm near Calmar, Iowa. Dale graduated from West Union High School in 1949. He attended Boys State and was the Homecoming King.
Dale was united in marriage with Lois Ann Hegland on October 8, 1950 at Zion Lutheran Church. Lois passed away in January of 1986. Dale was then united in marriage with Marjorie Marie (Quinn) Dunt on May 16, 1992. Dale was confirmed in the Methodist church and after his marriage to Lois, became a longtime member of the Zion Lutheran Church. Dale was unable to locate a record of his original baptism and renewed his baptism on April 19, 2009 at Zion, surrounded by his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Dale farmed west of West Union for many years and also worked as Fayette County Clerk of Court for fifteen years, retiring in 1996. Dale was a member of the West Union Lion’s Club, Zion Lutheran Church Council, Iowa Corn Growers Association and was a longtime member of the Iowa Cattleman’s Association. He was passionate about family and music, singing his first solo at nine years old for his teacher’s wedding and he continued singing for weddings, baptisms, funerals and family events. He participated in “The Messiah” for many years. Dale received an outstanding young religious leader award and served on the North High School Board for several years. Many of his children were handed their diplomas by Dale on their graduation day.
Dale is survived by his wife, Marjorie; six children, Jane (Gene) Ott of Winton, Minnesota, Mark (Pam Stanbrough) Halverson of Wadena, Iowa, Kent (Bonnie Martin) Halverson of West Union, Iowa, Bradley (Lori McIntyre) Halverson of Hawkeye, Iowa, David (Debra Amdahl) Halverson of Hawkeye, Iowa and Eric Halverson of West Union, Iowa; Marge’s children, Jack (Sue McKay) Dunt of Reno, Nevada, Mary (Dunt) Buenzow of Waseca, Minnesota, William (Joyce Mork) Dunt of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, Brian (Kathy Schmitt) Dunt of West Union, Iowa, Steven (Linda Solheim) Dunt of West Union, Iowa, Dean (Jana Cochran) Dunt of Urbandale, Iowa, Karen (Dunt) Kime of Sac City, Iowa and Ron (Krista Moser) Dunt of Hampton, Iowa; thirty- one grandchildren and thirty-seven great-grandchildren.
Dale was preceded in death by his first wife, Lois; parents, Elmer and Maude Halverson; grandson, Travis Halverson; brothers, Arthur, Earl and Vern Halverson; and sisters, Zelda Halverson, Ethel Patterson and Edna Beermann.
Dale was a hard worker but he knew the importance of relaxing. He enjoyed boating, camping and golfing; times he shared with his family. He rarely missed a sporting, musical, or County Fair event where his children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren participated. Dale was loved and respected by his family and all who knew him.
Visitation will be held 4-7 pm, Thursday, October 12, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa with a one hour visitation before services at the church on Friday.
Funeral Services will be 10:30 am on Friday, October 13, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa with Rev. Adam Starrett as the Officiant.
Inurnment will follow at West Union Cemetery, West Union, Iowa.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.
Armella Zweibohmer, age 91, of Decorah, IA, died on Monday, October 2, 2017, at Aase Haugen in Decorah, IA.
Armella Margaret (Jauert) Zweibohmer was born on May 7, 1926, the daughter of William and Mathilda (Klemmer) Jauert in Auburn Township, Fayette County, IA. She grew up in the Ossian and West Union areas. She attended school at St. Francis de Sales Catholic School in Ossian. She was united in marriage to Gustave Zweibohmer on October 9, 1945 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, and they became the parents of nine children. Armella was a busy homemaker and mostly stayed at home raising her family. She briefly worked at Wapsie Produce. She and Gus farmed near Decorah before moving into Decorah in 1977. Armella volunteered at The Depot, sorting and repairing jewelry. Armella enjoyed travelling, woodcarving, crocheting, knitting, tatting and playing cards. She was an active member of St. Benedict Catholic Church, the Catholic Daughters of America, the Red Hat Society, the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, and RSVP - playing cards with nursing home residents.
Armella is survived by her three sons: James (Judy) Zweibohmer, Lawton, OK; Ronald (Nancy) Zweibohmer, Decorah, IA and Dale (Judy) Zweibohmer, Ridgeway, IA. Six daughters: Mary Jane (James) Wenthold, Ossian, IA; Karen (Howard) Hanson, Cresco, IA; LouAnn (Rick) Holthaus, Decorah, IA; Jeannette (Steve) Kimber, Cresco, IA; Michelle (Kevin) Weidow, Calmar, IA; and Joan (Dale) Harrison, Decorah, IA; 27 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren; eleven siblings: Ernest Jauert, Horicon, WI; Leon (Betty) Jauert of Georgia, Doris Stade of IL; Jean Player of TX; Mark Jauert, Spring Valley, MN; Inez Willingham, Decorah, IA; Kenny (Ruth) Jauert, Decorah, IA; Carol Boe, Decorah, IA; Bonnie diGesualdo of TX; Marilyn Gibner of AZ; and Joe Jauert, Clear Lake, IA; a brother-in-law Adrian Friedhof in New Hampton, IA; along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Armella was preceded in death by her loving husband Gustave, January 29, 2008, her grandson Matthew Zweibohmer (1979), grandson Brent Holthaus (1995) and great grandson Jonathon (1997); all of Gus's siblings - Felix (Veronica) Zweibohmer, Hubert (Hilda) Zweibohmer, Hugo (Angela) Zweibohmer, Aloysius and Alphonse Zweibohmer, Marie (John) Bullerman, Elizabeth (Herman) Rust, Rita (Vendolyn) Tiimp, Josephine (Ray) Bullerman, Helen Friedhof; and spouses of Armella's siblings - Delores Jauert, Bill Player, Phyllis Jauert, Neil Gibner, Neil Boe, Ed Willingham.
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
12:00 Noon on Saturday, October 7, 2017
St. Benedict’s Catholic Church
Decorah, Iowa
CLERGY
Rev. Phillip Gibbs
LECTORS
Jill Hahn, Gavin Hanson, and Amanda Nesburg (grandchildren)
MUSIC
Mary Beth Bouska– Organist
Cindy Schissel– Cantor
“Here I Am, Lord” “On Eagles Wings”
“Amazing Grace” “Be Not Afraid”
SERVERS
Dawson and Karissa Wenthold, great grandchildren
OFFERTORY GIFTBEARERS
Armella’s Sons
EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS
Ron Zweibohmer
URN BEARERS
Jennifer Bohr - oldest grandchild
Jarrett Holthaus - youngest grandchild
HONORARY URN BEARERS
all of Armella's Grandchildren
INURNMENT
St. Benedict’s Catholic Cemetery
Decorah, Iowa
Arrangements by
Schluter – Balik Funeral Home
Decorah, Iowa
Ruth Marie Friederich, 82 of Elgin died Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017 at Gundersen Lutheran Health System in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
Ruth was born May 12, 1935 in rural Clayton County. She was the daughter of William and Bertha (Hofer) Rainey.
She graduated from Elgin High School in 1954.
On March 31, 1955 she was united in marriage to Russell Friederich at the Elgin Lutheran Church.
Ruth worked as the Elgin City librarian and then she owned and operated the Friederich Insurance Agency in Clermont and Elgin with her son, Steven.
Ruth was a very caring woman, a great cook and enjoyed hosting large family Christmas celebrations. She loved to golf and was a club champion numerous times at the Elkader Golf Course and Pleasant Valley Sport Course. She liked bowling, crossword puzzles, slots at the boat, Yahtzee, attending auctions and reading. She was a good mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
She is survived by one son, Steven of Elgin; three daughters, Connie Popelar (Ed) of Cedar Rapids, Bonnie Friederich of Elgin and Karen Friederich of Cedar Rapids; two grandchildren, Cassie Peterson (Kris) of Clermont and Stephanie Loftsgard (Nate Martin) of Coon Valley; three great-grandchildren, Waylon and Lawson Peterson and Clayton Loftsgard; a sister, Nora Cousins of Jesup; one brother, Kenneth Rainey of Illinois; and special friend Jerry Medberry of Elgin.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Russell on Oct. 13, 1990; two sisters, Barbara Dennler and Shirley Drenkhahn.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017 at 11 am at Elgin Lutheran Church. The Rev. David Coffin will officiate.
Friends may call from 4 to 7 pm on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Elgin and one hour before services at the church.
Interment will be at the Elgin Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elgin Legion, Schori Park Fund, or the NFVCC
Bonnie M. Blue, 71, of Arlington, Iowa died Thursday afternoon, October 12, 2017 at Unity Point – Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa.
Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Monday, October 16, 2017 at St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington with Pastor Margaret Yackel-Juleen officiating.
Visitation: 3:00 to 7:00 P.M. Sunday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Arlington and after 9:30 A.M. Monday at the church.
Interment: Long Grove Cemetery, Maynard, Iowa.
Memorials may be directed in her name to St. John Lutheran Church or Arlington EMS.
Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com
Bonnie Mae Blue was born January 16, 1946, on a farm south of Arlington, Iowa the eldest of twin daughters of Earl John and Viola Malinda (Jacobsen) Blue. She was baptized at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Maynard on November 3, 1946 and confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington on May 17, 1959. Bonnie attended kindergarten through sixth grade at Fairfield Township Number 5 and graduated on May 18, 1964 from Arlington High School. During her high school years, she enjoyed playing basketball and softball. After graduation, Bonnie was employed by A.E. Berry, M.D. Ophthalmologist in Oelwein for two years. She then joined City Laundering Company in Oelwein, where she was employed until her retirement in 2011. She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington, where she served as financial secretary for 15 years. Bonnie enjoyed houseplants, gardening, walking for exercise, tropical fish and caring for her kitties. She was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan and attended several games each summer.
Bonnie is survived by her 2 sisters: Connie (Lavern) Schaefers of Wadena and
Alice (John) Wanderscheid of New Hampton;
2 brothers: Robert (June) Blue of Wadena and
Allan (Cheryl) Blue of Altoona;
sister-in-law: Carole Blue of Tifton, Georgia;
and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother: Leon Blue; sister: Frances Nelson and brother-in-law: Ture Nelson.
Mary Lou Meyer, 89, of West Union died Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, at her home in West Union.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. today (Wednesday, Oct. 18) at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union.
Interment will be held in the West Union Cemetery following Mass.
Visitation was to be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home in West Union. There was to be a 4 p.m. rosary and a 7 p.m. Scripture service at the funeral home on Tuesday.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services of West Union is assisting the family with arrangements.
Duane Clarence Walter, 87, of McGregor, Iowa died Monday, September 25, 2017 at Central Community Hospital, Elkader, Iowa. Duane was born November 28, 1929 to Clifford and Bertha (Sonstegard) Walter in rural Luana, Iowa. He attended Eno Country School through the eighth grade. Duane proudly served in the United States Army.
Duane was united in marriage with Vivian Olive Davis on October 13, 1956 at Gaetz United Church in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada. Two daughters were born to this union. Duane and Vivian farmed east of Gunder for many years before moving to Luana. They lived in Luana for thirteen years before building a house near McGregor, Iowa. Duane was also proud when his wife became a United States Citizen in 1983. He was a member of Living Faith United Methodist Monona Parish. Through the years, Duane received many awards, including corn and soybean awards, Cattleman of the Year Award, two Pork Producer trophies, two tractor pull trophies, Century Farm and Heritage Farm Awards and he was a lifetime member of the St. Olaf American Legion.
Duane is survived by his two daughters, Kay Darlene Walter of Seneca, Wisconsin and Connie Lee (Dean) Reierson of Clermont, Iowa; three grandchildren, Daniel (Breanna) Reierson, Zackary (Erin) Reierson and Mark (fiancée, Alex Crawford) Reierson; five great-grandchildren, Brayden, Merrick, Gaige, Sydney and Cora; and three sisters, Elaine Gehring of Luana, Iowa, Jean Hofer of Luana, Iowa and Margie Walter of Orange Park, Florida.
Duane was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian; parents, Clifford and Bertha Walter; and one brother, Bill Walter.
Visitation was Tuesday, October 10, 2017 from 4-8 pm at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Wednesday.
Funeral Services were held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at Living Faith United Methodist Parish, Monona, Iowa with Rev. Harold McMillin as the Officiant.
Burial followed at Wagner Township Cemetery, rural Farmersburg, Iowa with Military Rites.
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.
Marjorie Wenthe, 95, of West Des Moines and formerly of Hawkeye, died Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye with Rev. Jim Harbaugh officiating.
Interment will follow at Hawkeye Cemetery.
Friends could call from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding services at the church on Wednesday.
Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.
Marjorie Marie, daughter of Rolland and Marie Mittlestedt Granger, was born Aug. 7, 1922, on the family farm in Fayette County, Iowa between Hawkeye and West Union.
She was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in West Union.
Marjorie received her education in the West Union Schools, graduating from West Union High School in 1939.
On Oct. 10, 1948, she was united in marriage with Levere Wenthe at Zion Lutheran Church in West Union.
During Marge’s working career, she worked five years for Lauer Implement in Hawkeye, worked at the Hawkeye Post Office from 1944-1986, and assisted her husband with his construction business and carpet and drapery business for many years prior to retiring in 1990.
She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye and WELCA.
She enjoyed gardening and word find puzzles.
She is survived by two sons, Daryl (Patricia) Wenthe of Marion and Dean (Sue) Wenthe of West Des Moines; a son-in-law, Dave Goss of Waterloo; six grandchildren, Todd Anderson, Amy (Bryon) Howland, Jeff (Katie) Wenthe, Jennifer (Senica) Fisher, Allison (David) Pierce, and Abigail (David) Harrison; and seven great-grandchildren, Tyler Anderson, Carson Anderson, Austin Kugler, Payton Howland, and Gracelyn, Beckett, and Reid Fisher.
In addition to her husband, Levere, who died in 2010, Marjorie was preceded in death by a daughter, Marlene Goss; her parents; three great-grandchildren, Tanner, Macy, and Morgan Anderson; three sisters, Evelyn Lauer, Ila Appelman, and Helen Lauer; and one brother, Richard Granger.
Leo F. Woods, 84, of Dyersville, formerly of Clermont, passed away Saturday, Oct 21, 2017. As requested he was at home and surrounded by his family.
Visitation was to be held 2-8 pm Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave. SW in Dyersville where an Ancient Order of Hibernians service was to be held at 7 pm. Visitation will continue Wednesday from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.
Leo was born Aug. 18, 1933, near Hopkinton, Iowa the son of John and Sadie (Burke) Woods. He was the youngest of seven children.
He married Judy Swenson on Sept. 14, 1952, in Clermont.
They moved to Clermont, Iowa and began a career delivering gas and fuel oil, then moved into the sales of agricultural products such as feed and livestock.
They moved to Dyersville in 1976, where they made many new friends and became active in St. Francis Xavier Parish.
After retirement he enjoyed driving an RTA bus for special needs adults.
Leo was a talented salesman because he loved talking to people. His interest in people guided his association with the Ancient Order of Hibernians where he was named 2016 Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Leo was also loved by many local friends, known for often telling a good story or joke and visiting his big family frequently, especially his grandchildren.
Leo is survived by his wife of 65 years, Judy, two sons: Michael Woods and Katie Pague of Berthoud, CO, and Stephen Woods and Carol Katsumes of Elgin; his very dear grandchildren: Jonathan and Nadine Woods of Johnstown, IA, Stephen and Melodee Woods of Hawkeye, Kara and Bud Johnson and Danny and Aleisha Woods, both of West Union, and Emily and Steven Beard of Gilbert, Ariz.; great-grandchildren include Conner, Duncan, and Megan, Brody, Ali, Kade, Megan, Addison, Mia, Kole, Jackson and Liam with Sarge, Brielle and Esaias; two brothers: Thomas and Carolyn Woods of Oelwein and James Woods of Cedar Rapids; and a brother-in–law, Sheldon Fox of Oelwein.
He was preceded in death by his son, David Woods in 2002, siblings: Donald (Jean) Woods, Paul (Carolee) Woods, Margaret (Thomas) Henry and Betty Fox; a sister-in-law: Patricia Woods.
Memorials are preferred and can be made in his name to the Ancient Order of Hibernians, St. Francis Xavier Church and Schools, or Hospice of Dubuque.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com.
Mary Lou Meyer, 89, of West Union, Iowa died Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017 at her home in West Union.
Mary Lou, the daughter of Otto and Alice (Hayes) Kubitz, was born July 16, 1928 in Houston County, Minn.
She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Albin, Iowa and graduated from New Albin High School in 1945.
Mary Lou was united in marriage with Ferris Meyer on Oct. 30, 1947. Ten children were born to this union.
In addition to raising her kids, Mary Lou worked at the Humphry Café and Traeger’s Jack and Jill in West Union. She worked at the registration desk for Palmer Lutheran Clinic and after her retirement, in medical records at Palmer for 29 years.
Mary Lou was very active in Holy Name Catholic Church, Holy Name Rosary Society, and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas.
She enjoyed baking bread, sewing, gardening, walking, embroidery, crossword puzzles, having coffee with her friends, playing Bingo, and making “Gramma Jam”. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family.
Mary Lou is survived by her 10 children, Sister Jean Ann Meyer of Oklona, Miss.; James (LaVanda) Meyer of West Union; Wanda (Pete) Bilden of Cedar Rapids; Richard (Marilyn) Meyer of Chatfield, Minn.; Shelley (Doug) Detert of Cedar Rapids; Sandra Busta of Cedar Rapids; Jacqueline (Ron) Snowbarger of Hiawatha; Michael (Kay) Meyer of Oelwein; Charles (Cathy) Meyer of Henderson, Nev.; and Todd Meyer (Trish Darling) of Waukon; 28 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; a sister, Dorothy Ann Weiand of Calmar; brother-in-law, David Meyer of Denver, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Ardell Begalske of Cedar Rapids and LaVonne Volle of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband, Ferris Meyer; her granddaughter, Elizabeth L. Meyer; her parents, Otto and Alice Kubitz; her daughter-in-law, Lori Meyer; and two brothers, Billy and Dick Kubitz.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017 at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union. Rev. Don Komboh and Rev. Dale Rausch were the concelebrants.
Interment was held in the West Union Cemetery following the burial Mass.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services of West Union assisted the family with arrangements. 43u43
Mary Louise Swale Hamilton, 88, of Clarksville, Tenn., and formerly of Victor, Iowa, died on Oct. 12, 2017, at Signature Healthcare of Clarksville.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, at Victor United Methodist Church with Rev. Jim Davis officiating.
Organist was Fred Stieffel.
Burial was in the Victor Memorial Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Charles Hamilton, David Hamilton, Benjamin Kallemyn, Mitchell Kallemyn, Ted Hamilton and Daniel Kallemyn.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Victor United Methodist Church.
Mary was born on Sept. 18, 1929 in West Union, the daughter of Albert and Ethel Matzenger Swale.
Her mother was from Mobile, Ala. and passed away on Jan. 4, 1939 when Mary was 9 years old. She and her three brothers, Albert Jr., Ralph, and Don, were raised by their dad. He had a hard task but did well.
Mary attended Upper Iowa University in Fayette where she studied to be a teacher. Her friends all called her by her nickname of Mort.
In the summers she worked at the Mental Health Institute in Independence, where she met another Mort, her future husband, Bernard Hamilton.
Mary and Bernard Hamilton of Winthrop were united in marriage on June 4, 1949 at The Little Brown Church in the Vale, Nashua.
They lived in various places before settling in Winthrop to raise their children Charles, David, and Rosemary.
Mary kept busy working with and enjoying her three.
She also did many things in the United Methodist Church: teaching Sunday school and Bible School, Lay Speaker, a delegate to Annual Conference, and a certified Lab Teacher.
Boy Scouts took up many family hours with Charles and David becoming Eagle Scouts and their dad serving as Scoutmaster. Later there were five Eagle Scouts in the family and one Gold in Girl Scouts. The entire family rode the El Capitan train to Philmont Scout Ranch in 1966 where everyone participated.
After their children left home for the U.S. Air Force and college, Mort and Mary moved from Winthrop to Victor. They loved to travel in their Airstream, spending many winters in Florida and visiting their children around the country. They liked living on County Line Road where they enjoyed gardening.
Mary cared for her husband his last eight years, first in Victor and then in Bowie, Md., close to their daughter. They had been married almost 59 years when he passed away.
Mary moved to Clarksville, Tenn. close to son Charles where she enjoyed playing the piano on Sunday afternoons at Uffelman Estates for the residents to sing hymns.
Her immediate family, mother, father, and three brothers, all preceded her in death.
She is survived by her three children, Charles (Carole) Hamilton of Clarksville, Tenn., David (Mary) Hamilton of Houston, Texas, and Rosemary (Daniel) Kallemyn of Upper Marlboro, Md.; four grandchildren, Benjamin (Heidi) Kallemyn, San Antonio, Texas, Gretchen Walker (Raymond), Phoenix Ariz., Mitchell (Kristina) Kallemyn, Odenton, Md., and Ted Hamilton, Houston, Texas; and six great-grandchildren, Simon, Caleb, Levi, and Phoebe Kallemyn of San Antonio, Texas and Lillian and Henry Kallemyn of Odenton, Md. 43u43
Verla J. McIntyre, 85, of West Union, Iowa died Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette, Iowa.
Verla Jean was born Oct. 4, 1932 to Thomas and Ruby (Robbins) Benson.
She graduated from Elgin High School and attended Cosmetology School in Des Moines.
Verla was united in marriage with Newell McIntyre on Feb. 24, 1952 at United Methodist Church in Elgin. She worked as a hairdresser at The Hair Hut in West Union until her retirement.
Verla is survived by her children, Nick (Marjorie) McIntyre of Eldorado, Julie (Wally) Ash of Charles City, Holly (Ron) Heying of West Union, and John (Tami) McIntyre of Hiawatha; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Beverly Yancey; and one brother, Tom (Mary Lou) Benson.
Verla was preceded in death by her husband, Newell McIntyre; one brother, Robert Benson; and her parents.
Funeral Services were held at 10:30 am on Friday, Oct. 20, 2017 at United Methodist Church, West Union, with Rev. Chris Ebbers as the Officiant.
Burial will be held at a later date at West Union Cemetery, West Union.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of West Union is helping the family with arrangements. 43u43
Jim Werhan
James Alfred “Jim” Werhan, 79, of West Union died Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at Gundersen Health Systems, La Crosse, Wis.
James Alfred was born on Aug. 27, 1938 to Alfred and Eleanor (Bergan) Werhan in Cresco.
He attended Holy Name Parochial School and graduated from West Union High School, where he was chosen as Homecoming King.
After graduation, Jim joined and proudly served in the United States Army.
Jim was united in marriage with Sherryl “Sherry” Keig on April 20, 1963 at Holy Name Catholic Church, West Union. Two children were born to this union.
He was a member of the Holy Name Catholic Church.
Jim farmed near Lima, worked at Ken’s Conoco in West Union and was a “vault guy” for over 47 years for Reyner Vault and Wilbert Vault.
In his spare time, Jim coached Little League Baseball, was a leader for Cub Scouts, Webelos and Boy Scout Troop 54 for several years.
He enjoyed fishing, spending time with his family, the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers.
Jim is survived by his two children, Kelly (Taina) Werhan of Riverview, Fla. and Karla (Mike) Snyder of West Union; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters, Ann (Duane) Moen of Decorah, and Mary Wilbur of Decorah; and one brother, Robert “Pat” Werhan of West Union.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Sherry; parents, Alfred and Eleanor Werhan; one grandson, Craig; three brothers, John, Charles and David Werhan; sister, Ruth Werhan; parents-in-law, Ralph and Lena Keig; brothers-in-law, Ralph Keig Jr. and Harold Wilbur; and one sister-in-law, Katherine Keig.
Funeral Services were at 10:30 am on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017 at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, with Rev. Dale Rausch as the Officiant.
Burial will follow at Lima Cemetery, rural Fayette, with Military Rites.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, helped the family with arrangements. 43u43
Gladys Hackmann, 100, of West Union died Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette.
Gladys May Yearous was born on March 25, 1917 to Jacob and Ethel (Voshel) Yearous in Elgin. Because of the untimely death of her mother, Gladys was lovingly cared for by her paternal grandparents, Jacob Sr. and Rebecca Yearous until her marriage.
She attended rural schools and graduated from Elgin High School in 1934. Gladys received her teaching certificate from Iowa State Teachers College and taught four years in rural schools.
Gladys received Christ as her personal savior and was baptized and became a member of First Baptist Church at the age of 15 years old, where she served faithfully as long as health permitted.
Gladys was united in marriage with Hugo Hackmann on June 4, 1940.
At Elgin Baptist Church, Gladys taught Sunday school and Bible School and was a member of the Tabitha Society.
She enjoyed sewing, reading and entertaining her relatives and friends in her home. She was a farm wife and homemaker and also worked as a secretary at the law office of Traeger and Koempel in West Union for about 25 years.
Gladys is survived by her children, Rachel Munger of Cedar Rapids, Stanley (Dianne) Hackmann of Elgin, and Mark Hackmann of Tempe, Ariz.; three grandchildren, Paul Hackmann, Nathaniel (Nicole) Hackmann and Shawn Munger; one great-grandson, Alex Hackmann; one half-brother, Charles (Charlotte) Yearous of LeClaire; many nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.
Gladys was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years; mother, Ethel Yearous; her father, Jacob Jr. and step-mother, Bertha (Medberry); a brother, Cornelius Yearous; a half-sister, Juanita Guinn; a half-brother, Jerome Yearous; a son-in-law, Ted Munger; and a grandson, Christopher Munger.
Funeral Services were at 11 am, on Friday, Oct. 20, 2017 at First Baptist Church, Elgin, with Rev. Lee Boleyn as the Officiant.
Burial followed at Elgin Cemetery, Elgin.
In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church and the West Union Library.
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elgin helped the family with arrangements. 43u43
David J. Melchert, 62, of Maynard died Sunday morning, Oct. 29, 2017 at Mercy Hospital of Franciscan Sisters in Oelwein surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Mass of Christian Burial: 11 A.M. Friday, Nov. 3, 2017, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein with Father Ray Atwood officiating.
Visitation: 3 to 8 P.M. Thursday and from 9 to 10:15 A.M. Friday at Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Maynard. Knights of Columbus Rosary: 3 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Parish Scripture Service: 8 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home
Inurnment: Long Grove Cemetery, Maynard and St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery, Worthington.
Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.
David Joseph Melchert was born July 4, 1955 at Monticello, Iowa, the son of Alfred Earnest and Ramona (Bacon) Melchert.
In 1973, he graduated from Maquoketa Valley High School in Delhi.
On May 15, 1976, he was united in marriage to Janet Ann White at Worthington. This union was blessed with three children, Jay, Cristy and Jodi.
After high school Dave did construction work for seven years and then was employed at Kramer Brothers in Monticello for 11 years. In 1991, he purchased Oelwein Dairy Supply in Oelwein and in 2002, he moved the business to West Union and is still operating under the name United Dairy Systems.
Janet died on November 1, 1997.
On Oct. 21, 2000, he was united in marriage to Cheryl Kay Oltrogge Tyler at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Maynard.
Dave was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein and Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree of the Oelwein Council #1168.
He was also a volunteer firefighter for 35 years, safety officer for five years, served on the Emergency Management for Fayette County, the DeLaval Dealer Advisory Board and was Master Gardener for seven years.
Dave was an avid Hawkeye fan. He loved his work, gardening and most of all spending time with his grandkids. He always said, “Every day is a good day.”
Dave is survived by his wife: Cheryl Melchert of Maynard; three children: Jay (Kim) Melchert of Oelwein, Cristy (Chuckie) Geilenfeld of Urbandale and Jodi (Cori) Little of Hazleton; two step-children: Zac (Lois) Tyler of Westgate and Megan (Amy Johnson) Tyler of Davenport; 12 grandchildren: Damon and Joslynn Melchert, Logan and Damon Penhollow, Kennedy and Nile Geilenfeld, Addi Miller,
Emma, Charlie and Jared Little and John and Jed Tyler; mother: Ramona Melchert of Hopkinton; four brothers: Doug (Lynn) Melchert of Hopkinton, Chuck (Becky) Melchert of Hopkinton, Gary (Cindy) Melchert of Hopkinton and Stan Melchert of Geneseo, Ill.; one sister: Nancy (Jeff) Uden of Hudson; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father: Alfred; first wife: Janet; and parents-in-law. 44u44
Carmen Dean Loftsgard, age 87, of Fort Wayne, IN, and having family in Huntington County, IN, died Oct. 27, 2017, at Lutheran Life Villages, in Fort Wayne.
Mr. Loftsgard spent most of his professional career in construction, working for many years as a foreman for the Kirk Gross Co. in Iowa.
He attended Iowa State University for one year, and served in the United States Army in Korea during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954.
He was a member of the West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont, IA, and the Independence United Methodist Church in Independence, IA.
He was born July 18, 1930, in Elgin, IA, to Theodore and Nora Nelson Loftsgard.
He married Mary Wetmur on July 8, 1956, at the Independence United Methodist Church, in Independence, IA, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 11, 2006.
Surviving are two daughters, Theresa (Scott) Trauner, of rural Huntington, and Denise (Don) McFarland, of Griffin, Georgia; a son, Brad (Bonita) Loftsgard, of Bradenton, FL; a sister, Annabelle Flores, of Lee’s Summit, MO; six grandchildren; Nicole (Travis) Edwards, of Atlanta, GA; Jennifer (Matthew) Rowe, of Denver, CO; Erica Harriss, of Lake City, FL; Adam Trauner, of Houston, TX; Matthew Bates, of Bonney Lake, WA; and Lyndsay (Tommy) Bottichio, of Marietta, GA; and seven great-grandchildren.
A private service will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, in Ladysmith, WI.
Preferred memorials are to Lutheran Life Villages Foundation or the VA Northern Indiana Health Care System, in care of Deal-Rice Funeral Home, 338 E. Washington St., Huntington, IN 46750.
Online condolences to dealricefuneralhomes.com. 44u44
Steven A. “Lamar” Franzen, 53, of Hawkeye died Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017 at his home in Hawkeye.
Steven Al was born Jan. 6, 1964 to Florian and Patricia (Carter) Franzen in West Union.
He was baptized and confirmed at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union.
He was a member of North High School Class of 1983.
Steven was united in marriage with Marlys Schmalle on May 11, 2016.
He worked on the railroad, drove a truck and did custom farming for Steve Bushman.
Lamar had a passion for coyote hunting and was a mentor for many other hunters. He was well known for his dogs “Running Walkers”, which were some of the best dogs around.
Lamar also enjoyed riding his Harley and working on cars.
Lamar is survived by his wife, Marlys of Hawkeye; a daughter, Alicia (Kyle Ostrander) Franzen of West Union; granddaughter, Kylie Marie Ostrander; parents, Florian and Pat Franzen of Hawkeye; step-daughters, Angela Bohle of Ohio, Andrea (Curtis) Davis of Altoona, and Kimberly Kallis of Spring Grove, Minn.; siblings, Keith Franzen of Hawkeye, Mark (Julie) Franzen of Elgin, John Franzen and Paul Franzen of Hawkeye; and his dogs, Beaver, Banjo, Rusty, Pearl and Hoss.
Lamar was preceded in death by his grandparents, several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and father-in-law, Verdell Schmalle.
Steve fought his disease hard and never gave up. He would like to impress upon everyone that acid reflux caused his esophageal cancer, and he would urge everyone to talk to their doctors to be checked.
Funeral Services were held at 11 am on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 at Holy Name Catholic Church, West Union, with Rev. Dale Rausch as the officiant.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, helped the family with arrangements. 44u44
Willet William Miller (89) passed away at his home on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Visitation will be held Friday, Nov. 3, from 4 – 7 pm at West Clermont Lutheran Church, and a memorial service will be on Saturday, Nov. 4, at 11 am, also at West Clermont Lutheran Church. Additional visitation will be held from 10 am until service time at the church.
Willet was born March 5, 1928, to William and Gussie (Kuppan) Miller.
He was baptized and confirmed at West Clermont Lutheran Church, and he graduated from Clermont High School in 1945.
In 1948 he married his childhood sweetheart Lois Olson.
The Millers began farming in 1948 and established a registered dairy herd called “Wilomi Holsteins.” Willet and Lois were the first farmers in Fayette County to be recognized as total cooperators with the Soil Conservation Service.
In 1978 his son Christian purchased their farm, and Willet began working as a claims adjuster for Farmer’s Mutual and Grinnell Mutual Insurance Company until he retired in 1990.
Willet became a Mason in 1970.
In 1971 he joined the Shrine and the Northeast Iowa Shrine Motor Clowns. He purchased a unicycle on his 46th birthday and performed as “Wheelie” the clown. Willet rode in a total of 763 parades throughout the years, helping to raise funds for the crippled and burned children’s hospitals. He was also a member of Clowns of America, International Unicycle Assn, Unicycle Society, and “On One Wheel.” He acquired skills of juggling, tight wire walking, diesel sticks, roller balls, unicycle on the tight wire, and was a master with balloon sculpturing.
He was active in the Republican Party and served as Fayette County Chairman, District Delegate, State Delegate, and a Regan Delegate in the 1976 Republican Convention.
Willet loved nature and described the beauty and magnitude of nature with poetry.
He also wrote many humorous poems describing actual events. He had a keen wit and loved puns that the grandkids called “Grandpa Jokes.”
Willet was an avid sports fan and made countless trips to Chicago to see the “Wait till next year” Cubs. He was also a big fan of the Chicago Bears, Iowa Hawkeyes, and local schools. He enjoyed watching family members and grandchildren participating in sports. Another highlight was skydiving on his 80th birthday.
His greatest love was his wife Lois and his entire family.
Willet will be missed by Lois, his loving wife of 69 years, five children: Leslie (Pauline) Miller of Ames, Paul (Carol) Miller of Clermont, Christian (Stephania) Miller of Clermont, Caroline (Kevin) Bemiss of West Union, David (Karen) Miller of Clermont; his sister Augusta Jensen of West Union; 17 grandchildren: Zach (Amanda) Miller, Sarah Miller, Jennifer (Mike) Elsbernd, Lisa (Matt) Grimm, John (Amber) Miller, Christopher (Kate) Miller, Alissa (Charlie) Gunsolly, Marcel Coco, Anton (Jarka) Coco, Patrik Coco, Laura (Tim) Remus, Andrew (Dani) Haskenhoff, Kedrick Bemiss, Jenna Bemiss, Kjerstin Miller, Rebecca Miller, and William Miller; 16 great-grandchildren: Elsa, Sylvia, Thorin, Bryce, Kaelyn, Layla, Brenna, Liam, Alyssa, Ben, Ava, Ian, Filip, Jozefina, Camden and Lennon.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Gussie Miller; and two sisters, Beryl Swenson and Mildred Habeger.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials that will be given to the Shrine Hospital and West Clermont Lutheran Church. 44u44
