Betty Nims

Betty Jean Nims, 95, of Clermont, Iowa died peacefully on Monday, January 29, 2018 at the Good Samaritan Center, West Union, Iowa. Betty was born the youngest daughter to the late Elmer and Gladys (White) Wood on July 20, 1922, in Decorah, Iowa. Betty graduated from Decorah High School in 1939.

Betty was united in marriage to Glen Nims at her parents’ home on July 21, 1940. Three daughters were born to this union, Judith Loftsgard, Shelvy Schott, and Phyllis Howard. Glen and Betty farmed in the West Union and Clermont area before starting their own business, Riverside Auto Sales. Betty worked as a meat cutter at Treager and Bostrom grocery stores, West Union, before working for Jack and Jen McNeil at Valhalla Supper Club, while doing the book work for their business.

She loved playing cards with friends (especially pinochle), meeting friends for coffee, fishing, traveling, and bowling for the City League (going to state was a highlight). Betty was always interested in the endeavors of all of her grandchildren.   

She is survived by her children and spouses; Judy (Ron) Loftsgard, Elgin, Iowa, Shelvy (Willie) Schott, Clermont, Iowa, and Phyllis (Jerry) Howard, Clermont, Iowa; six grandchildren and spouses, David (Kathy) Loftsgard, Maynard, Iowa, Drew (Kristen) Loftsgard, Norwalk, Iowa, Lisa Jacobson, Lime Springs, Iowa, Lorry (Terry) Kohls, Clermont, Iowa, Beth (Craig) Schott, Elgin, Iowa, Mark (Stacey) Schott, Clermont, Iowa; nineteen great-grandchildren; and fifteen great-great-grandchildren.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Gladys; husband, Glen Nims; sisters, Velma Rowe and Lela Pilgram; brother, Norman (Bud) Wood and granddaughter, Debra Loftsgard.

Visitation was on Saturday February 3, 2018 from 3-6 pm at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa. There was also a time of sharing memories at 6:00 pm on Saturday at the funeral home. Pastor Dwight Albers was the Officiant

Inurnment will be held at a later date.

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

Dorothy Wurster

Dorothy Ann Fox Wurster was born April 23, 1931 in Mahaska County to Leslie and Ella Mae Rose Fox.

She attended Center School, a one-room school, in Monroe Township, Mahaska County. She graduated from Lacey High School in 1948 and enrolled in Iowa State Teachers College at Cedar Falls, where she received a Limited Elementary Certificate. Her first teaching experience was in the same Center School she had attended.  

On June 2, 1950 Dorothy was united in marriage to Howard Eugene Wurster of Clearfield, Iowa. Three children were born to this union, Katheryn Joan, Rosann Marie, and Gary Allen. They lived on a farm outside Tingley, Iowa from 1954 until 1996, when they relocated to northeast Iowa.

Dorothy entered Graceland College, Lamoni, Iowa and graduated in 1970. In 1988 she earned a Master’s Degree from Drake University, Des Moines.  

She taught 30 years, mostly in the East Union School District, Afton, Iowa.

Dorothy was active in the United Methodist Church, Tingley, Iowa, where she served as UMW president, chairman of the official board, and taught the high school Sunday School class and later the young adult class for a total of 42 years. 

Dorothy was a 4-H leader and was active in Ringgold County politics. She led a support group during the farm crisis in the 1980s.  One of the highlights of her life was testifying before the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee of the 100^th Congress in 1987. She spoke on the problems affecting children and farm families.  She received a standing ovation.

Dorothy stressed to her children the importance of education, a strong work ethic, and striving for excellence.

Dorothy and Howard were happiest when involved with activities of their children and later activities of their grandchildren.

Dorothy passed away Jan. 24, 2018 at Aase Haugen Senior Services, Decorah, Iowa. 

Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 3, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Elgin. Burial will take place at a later date.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her mother and father; her only brother, Robert Fox, and his wife, Nancy; her in-laws, Herman and Shella Wurster; and her brother-in-law Willis Wurster.  

Dorothy leaves to mourn: her husband of 67½ years, Howard; children Katheryn Russi of Decorah, Iowa, and stepchildren Chris (Abby) Russi and children Isaac and Adrian of Rochester, Minn., and Jen (Randy) Light and children Cale, Chance, and Piper of Concord, N.C.; Rose Schutte (Michael) of Castalia, Iowa, and children Leisl Schutte of Castalia, IA and Greg Schutte of Sioux City, Iowa; and Gary Wurster (Robin) of Fayette, Iowa, and children Holly Mendralla and child Allison of Elgin, Ill., and Stefan (Jolene) Wurster and children Emma, Gavin, and Sumerlin of Onslow, Iowa;  also nieces Cynthia, Laura, and Patricia and their families (Bob and Nancy’s daughters); sister-in-law Lois Wurster (Willis) and her daughters Gloria, Brenda, Connie, and Marcia and their families; and a host of good friends.           6u6

Tennis Foels

Tennis L. Foels, 63, was born in Postville, Iowa on June 1, 1954 to parents, Leo and Dorothy (Friederich) Foels.   

He died on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018.

Tennis was baptized and confirmed at Community Presbyterian Church in Postville, Iowa. He most recently attended St. Paul Lutheran Church in Postville, Iowa.  

He was a 1972 graduate of Postville High School.  

On June 2, 1995, Tennis was married to Diane Snitker.

Tennis was employed at Cabela’s in Prairie du Chien, Wis.  

He enjoyed musical and drama productions, visiting with the elderly, feeding and identifying birds, riding in his Ranger, the Chicago Bears and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Tennis is survived by siblings Terry (Jan) Foels, Thomas Foels, and Tammy (Kenny) Monk; mother-in-law Jean Snitker;  stepsons Brian (Eva) Olson and Bruce (Erika) Olson;  grandchildren Patience (Josh) Williams, Brett (Jordan)), Blake, Emily, Blane, Kaitlyn and Brady Olson;  great grandchildren Caleb, Skylar and Maddox;    brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Larry and Sharon Snitker, Suzanne Snitker, Julie and Don Russell, Joe and Jolene Duwe, Randy and Beth Snitker, and Glen Snitker; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends, and special friend Lori Deering.

Tennis was preceded in death by his wife, Diane; his parents, Leo and Dorothy Foels; father-in-law Merlin Snitker; and sister-in-law Oma Foels.

Visitation will be on Thursday, Feb. 22 from 4-7 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville, Iowa.  

A celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 23, at St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Memorials may be sent to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.iowacremation.com under “Obituaries.”     6u6

Colette Ameling

Colette Ameling, 90, of West Union, Iowa, died Monday, Feb. 5, 2018, at Stoney Brook in West Union, Iowa. 

Colette Langreck was born on Jan. 13, 1928, to John H. and Catherine “Catie” Langreck in St. Lucas, Iowa. 

Colette was united in marriage with Felix William Ameling on Oct. 26, 1949. To this union, six children were born. 

She worked hard caring for her family, especially for her son, Carl who required full-time care. 

Together with Felix, Colette farmed, ran a feed business and a can and bulk milk route for AMPI. Colette and her children were also groundskeepers at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Festina. She later worked for French Furniture in Calmar, Iowa, and Heying Firms in West Union.    

Like her father, a carpenter, Colette redid and remodeled many of their homes, designing the layout and often doing the work herself. 

She also traced her family history back to Germany and was the family genealogist. Colette and Felix hosted many family reunions at their home over the years for both sides of the family.

Colette is survived by her sons, David (Dianne) Ameling of Ossian, Iowa, Dan (Sayonara) Ameling of Pineville, Mo., Thomas (Laura) Ameling of Clermont, Iowa; son-in-law Richard (Bonnie) Raddatz of Anamosa, Iowa; grandchildren Danielle (John) Chargo of Lisbon, Iowa, Jonathan Ameling of Istanbul, Turkey, Chad Raddatz of Marion, Iowa, Phillip (Kellie McTyre) Ameling of Savannah, Ga., Gregory (Amanda Smith) Ameling of Wilmington, N.C., Alisha (Juan) Arias of Elgin, Iowa, Josh (Donna Green) Christen of Postville, Iowa, Nichole Hernandez of Clermont, Iowa; great-grandchildren Jordan, Kaylee, Ava and Mya; siblings Dolores Buchheit, Roger (Germaine) Langreck and Joyce (Jack) Zoulek; sisters-in-law, Ida Ameling, Alma Ameling, Arlene Huinker and Bernice Einck; and Colette’s good friend Lucille Boyer.

Colette was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Felix, on Dec. 31, 2010; son Carl on Sept. 27, 1972; son Michael on Oct. 23, 2009; daughter Patricia on Oct. 5, 2011; siblings Lena Pitzenberger, Josephine Heying, Leo Langreck, Theresa Zipse, Victor Langreck, Raymond Langreck, Lucy McNamara; and many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.

Funeral Service was held on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, at Our Lady of Seven Dolors, Festina, Iowa, with Rev. Bob Gross as the Officiant.

Burial will be held at a later date.              7u7

Eugene Rappold

Eugene W. Rappold, 91, of Sumner died Monday, Feb. 5, 2018, at Community Memorial Hospital in Sumner.

Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner with Rev. Joyce Sandberg officiating.

Burial followed at the church cemetery. 

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

Memorials may be made to the family for later designation. 

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

Eugene William, son of William and Martha (Hoepfner) Rappold, was born Oct. 12, 1926, in rural Fayette County, Iowa. 

He was baptized Dec. 5, 1926, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye and confirmed on April 6, 1941, also at Trinity Lutheran Church. 

Gene received his early education in the rural country schools and graduated from Hawkeye High School.

On Nov. 16, 1947, he was united in marriage with Mae Westendorf at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner. To this union two daughters were born, Jeanine and LuAnn. 

Gene worked for Pennington Supply, Creamery Supplies prior to becoming the owner and operator of the Sumner Locker in 1965. Following owning and operating the Sumner Locker for 18 years, Gene worked at Meadowbrook Country Club in Sumner. 

Gene was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner, where he was very active; he was president of the Brotherhood and served on the Cemetery Board and was a member of the St. John Couple’s Club. 

In addition to his involvement at St. John, he was also a member of the Light Plant Board, Sumner Volunteer Fire Department and the Community Memorial Hospital Board in Sumner.

Gene was honored in 1998 as the Grand Marshal of the Sumner Days Parade. Gene and Mae were also recognized as the Honeymoon Couple of the Sumner Days Parade in 2010. The couple just celebrated 70 years of marriage this last November.

Gene enjoyed wood-work, square dancing, golfing, horseback riding, and fishing.

In addition to his wife, Mae, of Sumner, Gene is survived by his two daughters, Jeanine (Lloyd) Johnson of Tucson, Ariz., and LuAnn (Steve) Schumacher of Tucson, Ariz.; four grandchildren, Joshua (Lauren) Johnson of Colorado Springs, Colo., Angela (Ryan) Minnig of Englewood, Colo., Jennifer (Nick) Rienstra of Tucson, Ariz., and Bradley Schumacher of San Francisco, Calif.; six great-grandchildren, Andrea and Justin Johnson, Catherine and William Minnig, and Nathan and Ella Rienstra; and one nephew, Wayne (Cheryl) Wenthe of Hawkeye.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Melva Wenthe.

Ron Miller

Ron L. Miller, 68, of Maynard, Iowa died Wednesday morning, February 7, 2018 at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.

Gathering of family & friends: 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Friday, February 16, 2018 at the Maynard Community Hall in Maynard.

Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Maynard, is assisting the family.

Memorials may be directed to the West Central School Playground Fund in lieu of flowers.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Ronnie Lee Miller was born October 11, 1949 in Waverly, Iowa, the son of Edo William and Louise Ann (Kruse) Miller.  He graduated from Allison-Bristow High School in the class of 1967.  Ron continued his education at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls where he received his bachelor’s degree in education.  On July 20, 1974, Ron was united in marriage to Julie Ann McGonigle in Odebolt, Iowa.  Ron was a Junior and Senior High math teacher at West Central Community Schools in Maynard for 35 years.  Ron and Julie sponsored several foreign exchange students throughout the years.  He enjoyed collecting presidential memorabilia, researching genealogy, playing cards, grilling, spending winters in Port Aransas, Texas watching the pelicans and ships, and spending time with his dogs and his family, especially his granddaughter, Rose.

Left to celebrate Ron’s memory are his wife: Julie Miller of Maynard;

daughter: Annie (Brandon) Hanna of Houston, Texas;

son: Jay Miller (Cindy Enyart) of Waterloo;

granddaughter: Rose Miller;

parents: Edo and Louise Miller of Allison;

a brother: Ryan Miller of Urbandale and

many other relatives.

Tom Vance

Tom Vance, 85, of Winterset died Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018, at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. 

Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 17, at Word of Life Family Church in Winterset. 

Burial followed in Oakdale Cemetery in Adel. 

Memorials may be directed to the American Legion Post 464 of Adel or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Online condolences may be left for the family at ochiltree.com.

Charles Thomas “Tom” Vance was born in Forest City on May 28, 1932, to Hobart and Martina “Tina” (Frerichs) Vance. 

Tom graduated from Adel High School in 1950 and graduated from Iowa State with a Civil Engineering Degree in 1959. 

His marriage to Charlotte Ann Croft took place on Feb. 7, 1953, in Sedalia, Mo. 

Tom also served in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956. 

During his working years, Tom worked as a civil engineer, moving to West Union in 1961 and later to Winterset in 1973, where he partnered at Vance and Hochstetler Consulting Engineers. He had not retired and still remained dedicated to his engineering work.    

Tom was a devoted member of Word of Life Family Church of Winterset and was a member of American Legion Post 15 of West Union. He was also a member of the National Society of Professional Surveyors.  

Tom enjoyed playing solitaire, reading the newspaper, watching NASCAR and working on cars. All this said, he treasured the time spent with his family.   

Survivors include his children, Greg (Nancy) Stahl of West Union, Mike (Donna) Vance of Irving, Texas, Sydney (Chuck) Feild of Overland Park, Kan., Leslie (Steve) Nichols of Adel, Jim Vance of Winterset; 11 grandchildren, Cassie, Erica, Audrey, Emily, Rachel, Ross, Jessica, Andy, Lisa, Zachary and Joshua, 16 great-grandchildren; extended family and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Charlotte Vance, who died July 31, 2000; a sister, Rosalie Miller; and a brother, Roger Vance. 

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Eugene Bodensteiner

Eugene Bodensteiner, 81, of West Union, IA, died on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2018, at the Good Samaritan Society in West Union, IA.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by the Rev. Kyle Digmann on Wednesday, Feb. 7, at St. Luke Catholic Church in St. Lucas.

Interment was in the church cemetery. Casket bearers were Darren Kriener, Kody Bodensteiner, Matt Borntrager, Jay Eickman, Dillon Hammersland, and Spencer Bodensteiner.

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

Eugene Ben Bodensteiner was born Sept. 10, 1936 in the same house he resided in his entire life near St. Lucas, IA. He was the son of John and Rena Bodensteiner and was the youngest of three children. His mother, Rena, passed away when he was 12.

Eugene attended St. Luke's Catholic School and graduated in 1954. 

He met his wife, Rosalyn, at a dance three weeks before he went into boot camp. She wrote to him every day. 

He was proud to be a member of the 2^nd Co. M of the 504^th Regiment of the 82^nd All American Airborne Division at Fort Bragg located in Fayetteville, N.C. He served as an Airborne Paratrooper for two years and completed 13 jumps. He was granted an early discharge in the spring of 1957 because his father had a heart attack, and he had to return to take care of the farm.  

Eugene married Rosalyn Ida Heying on Aug. 12, 1957 at Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Festina. To this union were born eight children. 

Eugene was a longtime farmer. He also worked at the Oliver tractor plant in Charles City and John Deere in Waterloo. He later went back to school for hail insurance adjusting and ultimately owned his own insurance company. 

Eugene enjoyed fishing, hunting squirrels, playing cards and dancing with Rosalyn (because they learned not to step on each other's toes). 

He was a devoted Catholic and a lifelong member of St. Luke Catholic Church. He served on the parish council and was instrumental in the latest planning and renovations to the church.  

He always enjoyed having family gatherings at the farm in St. Lucas. Many holidays, barbeques, and picnics were held over the years. This included playing games inside and out and sitting under the shade tree in the front yard. He was very proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Eugene is survived by his children: Steve (Valerie) of Marble Rock, IA, Cathy (Jim) Eickman of Mountain Home, Ark., Jodi (Donald) Kriener of Ridgeway, IA, Tom (Glenda) of Decorah, IA Jim (Margo) of New Hampton, IA, John (Ann) of Cedar Rapids, IA, Dean of Lacrosse, Wis.; grandchildren Carrie (Matt) Borntrager, Danielle Bodensteiner, William (Julie) Eickman, Jay Eickman (fiancée Stephanie Dougherty), Darren (Kayla) Kriener, Jenny (Dillon) Hammersland, Kody Bodensteiner, Spencer and Irelynn Bodensteiner; great-grandchildren Alyssa and Audrey Kriener; sister Vivian Hemesath of Ossian IA; brothers- and sisters-in-law Kay Humpal of Decorah, IA, Marion Heying of Sumner, IA, Elsie Timp of Calmar, IA, Cleo (Emily) Heying of Luana, IA, Richard (Linda) Heying of Ossian, IA, Elaine Heying of Calmar, IA, Joyce (Richard)  Shindelar of Calmar, IA, Marcie (Larry) Havel of Osage, IA, Donald (Carolyn) Heying of Calmar, IA; nieces and nephews.

Eugene was preceded in death by his wife, Rosalyn Bodensteiner (Sept. 2, 2013); daughter Carol Ann Bodensteiner (4 years old); grandson Terence Eli Bodensteiner (infancy); daughter-in-law Darlene Bodensteiner; his parents, John and Rena Bodensteiner; one sister, Germaine (Robert) Hemesath; brother-in-law Francis Hemesath; mother- and father-in-law Peter and Agnes Heying; brothers- and sisters-in-law Hugo and Lucille Heying, Stanley Humpal, Ruth and Ray Langreck, Irvin Heying, Donald Timp, and Larry Heying.      8u8

Peggy Eickhoff

Peggy J. “Peg” Eickhoff, 73, of Cabool, Mo., formerly of Sumner, Iowa died Feb. 13, 2018 at Texas County Memorial Hospital, Houston, Mo.

Peggy Jean, daughter of Oliver and Mildred (Cline) Westpfahl, was born Nov. 7, 1944 in West Union, Iowa. 

She was baptized and confirmed in Trinity Lutheran Church of Hawkeye, Iowa. 

Peg received her education in Waucoma and graduated from Turkey Valley High School in 1962.  After high school, she attended and completed cosmetology school.

She was united in marriage with Eugene James Eickhoff on Dec. 3, 1966 in Mabel, Minn. Together, they made a living as bar owners in Hawkeye and farming in the Alpha community. Peg also worked as a licensed cosmetologist in many Iowa communities until 1973.  While Gene ran a construction company, she was a homemaker and a homeschool teacher to her three sons.

Peg’s hobbies included thrift store shopping, playing cards, crossword puzzles, Wheel of Fortune, fishing and collecting Depression glass. Her favorite songs were Toby Keith’s “I Wanna Talk About Me” and “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong.  She had an endless joy of caring for and fostering numerous animals throughout the years.

She is survived by her husband, Gene, of Cabool, Mo.; three sons, Jeremy (Hilliary) Eickhoff of Hawkeye, IA; Cody (Nichole) Eickhoff of Dunkerton, IA and Colton (Jenny) Eickhoff of Oelwein, IA; six grandchildren; one brother, Keith (Marilyn) Westpfahl of Hawkeye, IA; one sister, Judy Treloar of Waucoma, IA; a sister-in-law, Barbara Frost of Birch Tree, Mo.; and longtime family caregiver and friend Sarah Pieschke of Cabool, Mo. Her memory is also cherished by two stepchildren, several nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

Peg was preceded in death by her parents; her mother- and father-in-law; a brother, Oliver (Junior) Westpfahl; a niece, Stephanie Seiler; a nephew, Raymond (Harry) Snyder; a great-niece, Deidre Westpfahl; four brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held in Iowa at a date to be determined by the family.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.iowacremation.com under Obituaries.       8u8

Bernard Rohde

Bernard M. Rohde, 76, of Fayette, died Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, at his home in Fayette.

Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, 2018, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette with Rev. Andy Sayer officiating.

Burial followed at Grandview Cemetery in Fayette with military rites provided by American Legion Post #339 of Fayette. 

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

Bernard Martin, son of Bernard and Mildred (Betsinger) Rohde, was born Sept. 15, 1941, at the Waverly Hospital. 

He received his early education in the country schools in rural Tripoli before graduating from Fayette High School in 1959. 

Upon graduation, Ben enlisted in the United States Navy and served from May 1959 until being honorably discharged in September 1962. 

On Oct. 28, 1968, he was united in marriage with Norma Swomley in Galena, Ill. The couple made their home in Fayette. 

Ben worked at Upper Iowa University prior to working for the City of Fayette for many years. 

Ben is survived by one son, Marty (Goldie Moore) Rohde of West Union; one granddaughter, Angie Maness of West Union; one great-granddaughter, Becca Maness of West Union; two brothers, Joe (Rachel Johnson) Rohde of Fayette and Donald (Wendy) Rohde of Marion; two sisters, Catherine Langle of Kirksville, Mo., and Connie Halvorson of Marquette; one sister-in-law, Sandi Rohde of Farmersburg; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Norma, who died in 1996; daughter Rebecca, who died in 1993; grandson Dakota, who died in 2013; stepson, Daniel; and two brothers, John and James.

Augusta "Tootie" Jensen

Augusta Clara “Tootie” Jensen, daughter of William Benjamin and Gussie Bertina  (Kuppan) Miller, was born Nov. 11, 1924 in Clermont, Iowa. She passed away peacefully Jan. 26, 2018 at her home in Traditions of West Union. She was 93 years old.  

A memorial service will be held at West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 2 p.m. 

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.  

“Tootie” was baptized and confirmed in West Clermont Lutheran Church and graduated from Clermont High School as co-valedictorian of her class.  She graduated from the American Institute of Business in Des Moines, IA and was a member of Alpha Beta Sorority.  

She was united in marriage to Homer Jensen on Sept. 25, 1949. They lived in Des Moines for many years where “Tootie” worked for Household Finance and Homer was involved in banking, before retiring and moving to Hot Springs Village, Ark., in 1980.

She was a very active lady and lived life to its fullest, finding the good in everyone and everything.  

“Tootie” swung her first golf club at age 35 and it became her passion, winning many tournaments and she had four holes-in-one. She and Homer loved to travel and visited many countries together, playing golf wherever they could.   

“Tootie” was a member of the Hot Springs Village Women’s Golf Assn., Women’s Club, Republican Women’s Club, Arkansas Razorback Club, Symphony Guild, Community Foundation, Nite Cappers of Hot Springs, and a member of Village United Methodist Church.  

Being an avid Cubs fan she never missed a game and rejoiced when they won the World Series in 2016!  She played lots of bridge in her later years and loved to dance.  

“Tootie” moved back to West Union seven years ago to be nearer to her family and enjoyed her twilight years at Traditions of West Union, where she was adored by all the residents and staff.  

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Homer Jensen, of 52 years; one brother, Willet Miller; two sisters and their husbands, Mildred and Allen Habeger and Beryl and Carmen Swenson; nephews Carmen William Swenson and Eugene Habeger; and nephew-in-law Leo Woods. 

Surviving are her sister-in-law, Lois Miller of Clermont; a special niece, Caroline (Kevin) Bemiss, who was like a daughter to her; niece Judy Woods; niece Mary Kay (Bob) Marvin; nephew Leslie (Pauline) Miller; nephew Paul (Carol) Miller; nephew Christian (Stefania) Miller; nephew David (Karen) Miller; many great-nieces and -nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends, all of whom she loved dearly. 

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children, or the American Cancer Society.

          8u8

Sherry Iseminger

Sherry Ann (Miller) Iseminger, 66, of Hudson, formerly of Elgin, died Saturday, Feb. 24, 2018, at Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. today (Wednesday) at Trinity Bible Church in Cedar Falls.

Burial will be in the Hudson Cemetery.

Visitation was held from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, at Locke Funeral Home in Waterloo.

Locke Funeral Home, Inc. in Waterloo is in charge of arrangements.

Sherry Ann, daughter of Inez Clark Luchsinger and Clifton Miller, was born May 5, 1951, in West Union.

She was raised on a farm in northeast Iowa near the small town of Elgin.

In her youth, Sherry was active in her home church of First Baptist Church.

She graduated from Valley of Elgin in 1969 and earned her associate’s degree from Hawkeye Community College.

Sherry married Joel Iseminger on Jan. 15, 1977, at First Baptist Church in Elgin. They spent the first 11 years of their marriage in Ames. They then moved to the Iseminger family farm to raise their three children.

Sherry provided childcare out of her home for many years.

Recently, she retired and enjoyed time reading and her time with family.

She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Hudson.

Preceding Sherry in death were her parents; a brother, Gary Miller; and a sister, Traecey Methum.

She is survived by her husband, Joel Iseminger of Hudson; two daughters, Janelle (Jeremiah) Sander of Champaign, Ill., and Joy (Ryan) Folken of Bellevue, Neb.; a son, Luke (Danielle) Iseminger of Hudson; six grandchildren, Sydney, Isaiah, Micah and Chloe Folken and Jordan and Judah Sander; a brother, Kim (Shannon) Miller of Bull Head City, Ariz.; two sisters, Kay (David) Boleyn of Elgin and Nancy (Wayne) Sexton of Cedar Rapids.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Hudson Public Library Foundation.

Condolences may be left at www.LockefuneralHome.com.         9u9

Kenneth Pittman

Kenneth Wayne “Kenny” Pittman, 73, of West Union, formerly of Waterloo and Hudson, died at UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2018.

He was born March 29, 1944 in Waterloo, the son of Wayne Floyd and Pauline Eva Schneider Pittman. 

Kenny served in the U.S. Navy.

He married Connie (Begley) Hoffman and they later divorced. Kenny married Pam Shinneman on May 26, 1979 in Waterloo.

He was skilled tradesman at John Deere and Co. for 28 years, retiring in 1994. Kenny was a member of UAW Local 838.

Survivors include his wife, Pam Pittman of West Union; a daughter, Holly (LaMar) Sayles of Waterloo; a son, Mark Shinneman of West Union; seven grandchildren: Ashley Kisner of Hillsboro, Wis., Armondo Pittman of Greenville, Tenn., Larry Gaston of Clear Lake, Deon Sayles of Waterloo, LaMar Sayles, Jr. of Waterloo, Ramal Sayles of Waterloo, Jordyn Kuehl of Cedar Falls; eight great-grandchildren: Shyla Kisner, Adrienne Sayles, DeVaughn “Bubba” Sayles, Aaliyah Sayles, Lilli Gaston, Khloe Gaston, Tavi Pittman, and Micah Pittman; three sisters: Karen Smith of West Union, Kathy (Harlan) Patterson of West Union, Karla (John) Nichols of Waterloo; two brothers, Keith (Sue) Pittman of Waterloo and Kevin (Mary) Pittman of Waterloo, several nieces and nephews; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Tina Kisner; in-laws Harold and Edith Smith, Christine and Emery Begley.

Kenny enjoyed golfing, fishing and woodworking. His family meant everything to him and he treasured the time spent with them.

Family-directed Celebration of Life Gathering will be from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at the Fayette County Dance Pavilion (Fayette County Fairgrounds), 504 South Vine St., West Union, IA.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.kearnsfuneralservice.com.            9u9

Brenda McDanel

Brenda McDanel, 57, of Boone, formerly of West Union, died at her home in Boone on Feb. 10, 2018.

  Following her wishes, Brenda was cremated.  

A Memorial Service was held Saturday, Feb. 17, 2018 at Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel in Boone, officiated by Pastor Bruce Thomas.

  Brenda Ann McDanel was born in New Hampton, Iowa on Feb. 10, 1961, the daughter of Leo and Helen (Moellers) Franzen.  

She graduated from North High School in West Union.  

On July 12, 1984, Brenda married Monte McDanel in Boone, Iowa.  

Brenda was a wife, mother, and homemaker.  She loved spending time with her family and attending family reunions. 

Brenda enjoyed crafts, and she was artistic in painting and wood burning. She also enjoyed fishing, especially at Big Creek, cooking, and watching cooking shows and the Hallmark and Lifetime channels on television.

  Brenda was preceded in death by her father, a brother Alan, and a great-nephew, Robert Nass.  

She is survived by her husband, Monte, of Boone; her six children and her grandchildren, Timothy McDanel; Jessica McDanel and her children, Eysak, Kyran, Jadyn, and Rylen; Natasha (Cal) Holmstrom and their daughter Olivia; Mason McDanel; Shaylia (Leon) Borgomainerio and their children, Aleaya and Azalyn; and Mylan (Emily) McDanel and their son Morris; her mother, Helen Franzen of West Union; five brothers, Michael (Donna) Franzen, Brian (Rose) Franzen, Bruce (Debbie) Franzen, Lester Franzen, and Carl (Niki) Franzen; four sisters, Maggie O’Brien, Amy (Floyd) Hemesath, Laura Lubka, and Karen Myrah; a sister-in-law, Kim Franzen; numerous nieces and nephews.

In memory of Brenda, memorials may be directed to the family or the Iowa Kidney Foundation.

  Online condolences at www.schroedermemorialchapel.com.

  Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel, Boone, was in charge of arrangements.

Delores Pfister

Delores M. Pfister, 77, of Oelwein, Iowa died on Tuesday evening, February 20, 2018 at Oelwein Health Care Center in Oelwein.

Funeral Service:  11:00 A.M. Monday, February 26, 2018 at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein, with Pastor Duane Olsen officiating.

Visitation:  9:00 to 11:00 A.M. on Monday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein.

Interment:  Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, rural Oelwein, Iowa.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Delores Marie Solomon was born on October 14, 1940 in rural Fayette County, Iowa the daughter of Howard Alden & Myrtle Marie (Bridges) Solomon.  She graduated from Fayette High School in the class of 1960.  Delores was united in marriage to Ernest Junior Pfister on June 20, 1964 in Independence, Iowa.  Delores worked at Norby Farm Fleet in Oelwein for 30 years.  She enjoyed crocheting, word puzzles and reading.

Delores is survived by her:

Son: Brian (Lori) Pfister of Hawkeye;

2 Grandchildren:  Justin and Ashton Pfister;

Sister:  Darlene (George) Cowles of Mission, Texas and

Nieces & Nephews.

Delores was preceded in death by her parents and her husband: Junior on April 11, 2017.

Milton M. Jones

Milton Monroe Jones passed at Hillcrest Living on Friday, February 23, 2018, in Sumner, Iowa, at the age of 81.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 3, 2018, at the United Methodist Church in Hawkeye with Mona Christie, Lay Servant officiating.  Interment will follow at Bethel Cemetery, rural Hawkeye.  Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, March 2^nd at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding services at the church on Saturday. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.

Milton was born on January 14, 1937, in Traer, Iowa to Joseph R. & Irma “Pansy” (Morris) Jones. He graduated from Alpha High School in 1955. On July 22, 1956, he married Velma “Jean” Ferguson. To this union, four children were born and raised on their farm near Hawkeye.

Milton, along with his wife and children, farmed and operated a farrow-to-finish hog operation along with cattle and sheep. The couple also performed custom combining operations for other neighbors. In addition to farming, Milton drove school bus for Alpha Schools and worked for John Deere retiring after 30 years in 1990.

Milton enjoyed purchasing used farm equipment or other mechanical items and repairing them to operating order. He loved attending auctions and flea markets and was considered a reliable resource to name unidentified pieces and explain their intended use. Milton enjoyed playing baseball and basketball while in high school. He went on to coach a women’s softball team and played on the Alpha Good-Timers slow-pitch team for many years. After his own participation in sports, Milton enjoyed many years as an active fan attending football, softball, wrestling, and volleyball activities as well as band and music concerts of which his children and grandchildren were involved. Milton enjoyed time spent fishing with the kids and grandkids at his gravel pit and pond. Until his recent illness, he actively participated in 5am Euchre with friends at Diane’s Café in Hawkeye. He was a Trustee on the Bethel Cemetery Committee and a member of the Alpha United Methodist Church. Milton had a sense of humor and loved a good practical joke. He practiced and instilled in his children the importance of helping others whenever possible without expecting something in return.

Milton is survived by his wife, Jean; children Sherry (Jack) Knipp of Waterloo; Connie (Scott) Buhr of Sumner; and Daryl Jones of Hawkeye; sister-in-laws, Velda Lynch and Linda Ferguson; brother-in-law Lavern (Debby) Ferguson; grandchildren Libby (BJ) Funke, Jason (Livia) Knipp, Laysie (Zach) Valdivia, Joelle (Nick) Gallick, Weston Buhr, Alyssa (Nick George) Buhr, Dylon Jones, Kaylee Jones, and Ben Jones; step-grandson Tylor Richmond; great-grandchildren Kash, Dez, Romey, Clara, Henrik, Stella, and Esme.

Preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother in infancy, his parents-in-law Harold & Martha Ferguson; son Gregory Jones; brothers-in-law Dale Lynch, Harold “Bud” Ferguson Jr, & Garold Ferguson; nephews Robert Lynch and Lucas Ferguson; aunts, uncles, cousins, and longtime friends.

Lorraine Sieck

Lorraine L. Sieck, 86, of Maynard, Iowa, died on Sunday evening, February 25, 2018 at Maple Crest Assisted Living in Fayette with her family by her side.

Funeral Service:  10:30 A.M. Friday, March 2, 2018 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Maynard with Pastor Dennis Frank officiating.

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

Interment: Grandview Cemetery, Fayette, Iowa.

A Memorial Fund has been established.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Lorraine Luella Sanderson was born June 21, 1931 on a farm near Sumner to Vincent Edward and Ella Lily (Lundt) Sanderson. She attended school at Maynard for eight years, her family moved to Fayette and she graduated from Fayette High School in 1949. She started on the varsity basketball team all four years of high school. She worked at the Fayette State Bank, the Bean Mill, and the Waterloo Savings Bank. She met Roger Dwaine Sieck while working at the Bean Mill. They were united in marriage at Grace Lutheran Church in Fayette on September 7, 1952. They farmed northwest of Maynard for 36 years and moved to Maynard in 1984. Lorraine operated a daycare in her home for 25 years. She also was building manager for Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Maynard for 18 years. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and was active in the choir, altar guild, lector, vice-president of the Ladies Association, Audit Committee, Bible School Coordinator and Sunday School teacher for 50 years.

Lorraine is survived by her children, William (Debbie), Maynard, Barbara (Don) Ehlers, Stanley, Joanne (Randy) Nelson, St. Pete Beach, Florida, Mary (Trent) Bendixen, Olin, and one sister, Sylvia Wells, Traer. Her grandchildren include; Dwayne (Angie) Sieck, Angie (Dan) Leete, Brett (Nicky) Ehlers, Ryan (Kelly) Nelson, Kory Nelson, Beth Bendixen, Deidra Sieck, and Mitchell Bendixen. Her great-grandchildren include; Lauren Sieck, Payton Leete, Kristin Sieck, Nathan Sieck, Jackson Leete, Graydon Leete, Stanley Ehlers, Brooke Farrington, and Toula Ehlers.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Roger, October 23, 1990, a brother, David Sanderson, and two sisters, Shirley Hess and Grace Halstead.

Richard Yauslin

Richard Laverne Yauslin, 72, of Elgin, Iowa, died Monday, Feb. 26, 2018, at his home in Elgin.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, March 4, at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa, with Pastor Phillp Olson as officiant. 

Inurnment will be at God’s Acres Cemetery in Clermont at a later date.

Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 3, at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont. There will also be a one-hour visitation before services at the church on Sunday.

William Ashby

William Everett Ashby, 75, of Clermont, Iowa died Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2018 at his home in Clermont, Iowa.

Bill was born Nov. 1, 1942 to Robert Mitchell and Mary Louise (Peterson) Ashby Moline in Los Angeles, Calif. His family moved to Chariton, Iowa when Bill was a year old. 

He was baptized at Chariton Bible Church. 

Bill worked as a carrier for the Des Moines Register from 1952 to 1958, as Camp Staff for Camp Wapello BSA from 1955 to 1956 and part-time at Family Shoe Store from 1958 to 1960. 

He graduated from Chariton High School in 1960. Bill earned his BA degree in teaching math and social studies from State College of Iowa in 1963 and his MA degree in school administration from University of Northern Iowa in 1968. Bill did postgraduate work at NE Missouri State, Luther College, Iowa State College, UNI, and U of I. 

He taught math at Eldora High School and directed school plays from 1963 to 1966, taught math at New Hartford High School and coached junior high sports and directed plays from 1966 to 1967, was junior and senior principal, athletic director, directed plays, taught world history and drama at New Hartford from 1967 to 1968, was secondary principal at Radcliffe Schools from 1968 to 1972, was high school principal for Valley High School from 1972 to 1979, consultant for Computer Education at Arrowhead Area Education 5 in Fort Dodge from 1979 to 1989, Computer Support at Arrowhead Area Education Agency 5 in Fort Dodge from 1989 to 1996, director of marketing for Clermont Pin Company from 1996 to 2002 and a scorer and supervisor for Pearson Precision Test Scoring in Iowa City as well as adjunct instructor at Upper Iowa and Kirkwood Community Colleges. 

Bill also served on Fort Dodge City Council from 1994 to 1996 and Clermont City Council from 2000 to 2003 and 2006 to 2017.

Bill was united in marriage with Paula Diane Colburn in 1963 in Cedar Falls, Iowa; two children were born to this union. They later divorced. 

Bill was united in marriage with April Bingham Edwards in 1980 at the Little Brown Church; they later divorced.

Bill performed in 17 Musica Comedia Musicals in Fort Dodge, Mason City, Ames, Creston, Clarinda, and Okoboji. He also performed five Manson Meridian Shows and “Fiddler on the Roof” at the Elkader Opera House. He performed several years in Handel’s “Messiah” at West Union Methodist Church. He made many appearances portraying Governor Larrabee in Clermont. 

Bill was a 33^rd Degree Mason, a member of the Writers Group, and a lifelong Republican. 

He enjoyed discussing politics, fishing, and the L.A. Dodgers.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Kim (Steve) Woods of Marion, Iowa; granddaughter Melanie Kemmann of Port Hueneme, Calif.; grandsons Ben and Tyler Woods of Marion, Iowa; two nieces, Alecia (Lauren) Ashby and Amy (Aaron) Brace; great-nephew Eli Brace; special friend Judy Nelson of Clermont and her children, Tami (Todd) Guyer, Brenda (Jon) Wolter, Barry “Doc” (Connie) Nelson, Todd (Sue) Nelson; her 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary Louise and Robert Mitchell Ashby; stepfather Carl Moline; sister Jane; brother Mick; son Robert; and grandson Brian.

Visitation will be Friday, March 9, 2018, from 9-11 a.m., at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa.

Funeral Service will follow at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 9, 2018 at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Dayna Winke as the Officiant.

Burial will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at Chariton Cemetery in Chariton, Iowa.

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

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Tom Frevert

Thomas Jon Frevert, 75, of Taylorville, Ill., passed away at 10:59 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2018 in his home surrounded by his family following a courageous battle with cancer.  

Tom was born on May 19, 1942 in West Union, Iowa, the son of Dr. Merrill Frederick and Eunice Irene (Finch) Frevert.  

He graduated from North High School in West Union and received his bachelor’s degree from Upper Iowa University.  

Tom married Kay Scharae Kilcher on June 29, 1968 in West Union.  

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.  

Tom worked at Caterpillar, the Illinois Healthcare Association, Illinois Power, and most recently as an accountant with the State of Illinois.  

He was an active member of Taylorville First United Methodist Church, where he served in many roles throughout the years, including: Finance Committee, Administrative Board Chairman, Worship Committee Chairman, Lay Delegate to the Annual Conference, and participated in the cancer support group. 

Tom was also active in his community, including: president of the Christian County Mental Health Association, member of the Board of Appeals for the City of Taylorville, Public Relations director for the Executive Board of the Tornado Wrestling Foundation and played the role of Chamberlain for the High School Madrigal Dinner for 20+ years.  

Tom and Kay are proud supporters of many local charities, sports, and the arts and were recently given the title of Avid Sports Fans of the Year for Taylorville High School.  

He was an avid golfer and loved his annual golf trips with the “Biloxi Boys,” including one just last year.  Tom loved spending time outdoors, where he enjoyed boating, fishing, and waterskiing.  Traveling, especially with his family, was always important to Tom. Anytime Tom and Kay were out and a good song came on, they would most certainly be found on the dance floor.  More than anything, Tom’s children and grandchildren meant everything to him.  No matter what the activity, Tom was always there to support his grandkids. 

Tom made a lasting impact on all who knew him and will be greatly missed by his friends, the community, and his family.

He is survived by his wife, Kay Frevert of Taylorville; children Jenny Moats (Jim) of Taylorville, Trish Groeninger (Rick) of Auburn, and Andrew Frevert (Rachel) of Peoria, Ariz.; grandchildren Abby Moats, Faith Moats, Jordan Moats, Jereme Groeninger (Ashley), Hanah Klein (Donny), Kalynn Groeninger, Liliana Frevert, Amara Frevert, Lincoln Frevert, and Israel Frevert; great-grandson Bjorn Groeninger; and sister Elaine Wick (Lee) of Alexandria, Va.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Nancy Champion-Seppala and Jane VanRoekel.

A funeral service for Tom will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, March 12, at First United Methodist Church in Taylorville, Ill., with Rev. Becky Lembke officiating.  

Visitation will be held from 4 until 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 11, at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville and for one hour prior to the funeral in the church.  

Tom will be cremated following the funeral, and inurnment will take place at a later date in the West Union Cemetery in West Union, Iowa.  

Memorials may be made to Taylorville First United Methodist Church, the Tornado Wrestling Foundation, or Cancer Care Specialists Charitable Fund in Decatur, Ill.  

Memories of Tom or condolences to his family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.       10u10