Leo Jones

Leo James "Jim" Jones, 75, of Hawkeye died Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at his home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Sumner, with burial to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Sumner, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2018 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Sumner, and one hour preceding the Funeral Mass at the church.

Leo was born Feb. 21, 1943, on the family farm in Sumner to Clarence and Mathilda (Bouska) Jones. 

He was baptized and confirmed at Immaculate Conception Church in Sumner and attended Sumner schools through the 10^th grade. 

He worked for Sumner Egg Packing Company and Kroblin Refrigerated Express before joining the United States Air Force in 1961. His military career took him to Lackland AFB in Texas, McConnell AFB in Wichita, Ankinci AFB in Turkey for four months, and McCoy AFB in Orlando, Fla. He received his GED while in Air Force.

On June 8, 1964, Leo married Linda Thompson of Sumner in Orlando, Fla. 

On April 27, 1965, he was honorably discharged from the service. The couple then moved back to Sumner. 

Leo went to work for John Deere in Waterloo on July 16, 1965. 

The couple lived in Sumner and Cedar Falls before finding their home in Hawkeye in 1968. This is where they would raise their family and spend over 54 years together.

They started Linda's Lunch Wagon in June 1990 and traveled with different auctioneers to sales providing lunch for the crowd. They worked with many auctioneers over the years and enjoyed it so much they continued to run the service for over 20 years. 

On July 31, 1994, Leo retired from John Deere. They bought Frederika's Stein and Dine in Frederika in September 1998. They sold the supper club in 2013 and officially retired. 

Leo was a member of the Immaculate Catholic Church in Sumner and a member of Arnold Rogers American Legion Post 312 in Hawkeye.

Over the years Leo worked other jobs at Five Star Co-op and Oran Co-op, raised cattle, and always raised a large garden. He enjoyed taking produce to farmers’ markets and having enough product to can for the winter months to feed the family. He also loved to pick up black walnuts and hickory nuts. Leo would spend the winter months cracking nuts and picking out the meat, and he was known to have a freezer full of nut meat by spring, which he would sell or give away.

Leo is survived by his wife, Linda; children Kimberly (Ken) Koester of Spokane, Wash., Julie Jones of Hawkeye, and Andrew (Anessa) Jones of Hawkeye; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; siblings Rachel Johnson of Missouri, Robert of Des Moines and Dorothy Baker of Missouri. 

He was preceded in death by sons Russell in infancy and Christopher in 2015; his parents; stepfather Joe Volker; siblings Mary Anderson, Ralph, Kenny and Roger Jones, and Leola Strempke.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home, Sumner, is in charge of arrangements.      39u39

Mary Pape

Services for Mary Pape, 77, formerly of Hawkeye, were held Thursday, Sept. 20, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Eldorado. 

Burial was in the West Union Cemetery.

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

Mary died Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018, following a long battle with dementia.

Marilyn Rosella Vagts was born Dec. 3, 1940, the youngest of the five children of Lawrence and Mabel Vagts of Eldorado. 

She was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado.

Following graduation from North High School, West Union, in 1958, she went to Minneapolis to work for Hardware Mutual as a file clerk. 

In 1960, Mary returned to Eldorado, and on June 11, she married Daryl Pape. 

The couple began their married life on a farm two miles northeast of Eldorado, along the Turkey River. In 1966, Mary and Daryl bought a farm just west of Hawkeye, where they moved with their two young daughters, Janell and Joleen. In 1967, son Darren was born, completing their family.

In 1974, Daryl and Mary sold their milk cows and purchased Lauer Implement. Mary worked as a bookkeeper for Pape Implement & Appliance until the couple’s retirement in 2008. She also started working as a clerk in the Hawkeye Post Office in 1992 and later became a PMR (Postmaster Relief). 

Mary rode twice on RAGBRAI as a member of the Alpine Pedalers, and she was known to roller skate into town when the road past their house was newly paved. 

She was a member of Dorcas Circle and sang in the church choir at Trinity Lutheran Church. 

She enjoyed snowmobiling with neighbors, volunteered on the Hawkeye Community Hall board, Hawkeye Businessmen’s Association, and Hawkeye Historical Club, and helped rebuild the community hall after it was destroyed by fire. Mary also served on the Palmer Memorial Hospital board. 

She enjoyed golfing at Big Rock Country Club in Fayette, and when in her 60s, she helped organize a “Granny Basketball” team of women friends in the Hawkeye community. Mary enjoyed gardening and especially loved firecrackers and playing April Fool’s jokes on her family. 

The couple spent time in Arizona for several winters through 2011.

Mary and Daryl moved into assisted living in May 2016, and Mary became a resident of Maple Crest Nursing Home in Fayette in May 2017.

Survivors include her husband, Daryl, of Fayette; children Janell (Jeff) Bradley of Wadena, Joleen (Scott) Garvin of West Union and Darren (Angel) Pape of Grand Meadow, Minn.; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a sister, Irene (Elvin) Anderson of Elgin; three brothers, Donald (Audrey) Vagts of West Union, Kenneth (Evelyn) Vagts and John (Mary Ann) Vagts, all of Eldorado; and sisters-in-law, Kathleen Traeger of Hawkeye and Kay Pape of Sun City, Ariz.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter Alison Garvin, several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and two nieces.

The family suggests memorials to the family or St. Peter Lutheran Church, Eldorado.       39u39

Mary (Brehme) Halverson

Mary Delores Brehme Halverson passed away at 5:36 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at her home in Concordia Village, Springfield, Ill., surrounded by her family.  

Preceding her in death were her husband, Vern; her parents, Wilbur and Cecil Brehme; and her brother, Jerry Brehme.

Mary is survived by her five children, Sue (Pat) Landgrebe, Terry (Terrence) Moody, Jill (Mike) Meseke, Steve (Sharon) Halverson and Scott Halverson; grandchildren Kyle (Kayla) Zellers, Chelley (Ben) Macon, Jeremy and Lindsey Landgrebe, Cade (Kirstin Cooksey), Caitlyn and Cara Moody, Coleton and Clayton Meseke, and Kramer and Leah Halverson; great-grandchildren Will, Jack and Kinsley Zellers, Landon and Addison Macon, and Thomas Moody; and many nieces and nephews.  

Mary was very proud of her family and enjoyed gathering with them and sharing stories.

Mary was born May 25, 1930, in Muscatine, Iowa. The family moved to West Union, Iowa, where Mary graduated from West Union High School and went on to Rockford College. 

On Christmas Day 1951, she married Vern and transferred to the University of Iowa. She graduated with degrees in mathematics and finance. After graduation, Vern and Mary started their construction circuit, moving from Iowa to Ohio, Wisconsin, Algonquin, Ill., and in 1962 made their way to Springfield, Ill.

Mary was involved in the Miriam Circle of UMW, served on the Finance Committee at Douglas Methodist Church, the Ann Rutledge Unit of Home Extension, bowling league, golfing league, Ski & Boat Club, and served as a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader.

Education was extremely important to Mary. She even went door-to-door campaigning for the District 186 school bond referendum. 

Football was also important, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers.

In 1978, she and Vern started Halverson Construction Company, where Mary served as executive vice-president of the company and managed the office. Those who worked with her will remember her positive attitude, quiet strength, and her sense of humor. She was very proud of the company and the people who worked with them.

Mary considered the staff at Concordia Village her friends and loved living there.  Mary loved life and lived it with gusto!  As she often told us, “It’s been a good day!”

Funeral Ceremony: 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 20, 2018, at Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church in Springfield, Ill., with Pastor Julia Melgreen and Pastor Margaret Ann Jessup officiating.  

Burial followed at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, Ill.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church, 501 S. Douglas Ave., Springfield, IL 62704, or to Concordia Village Benevolent Care Fund, 4101 W. Iles Ave., Springfield, IL 62711.

The family of Mary Delores Brehme Halverson was served by Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6^th Street, Springfield.

Please visit butlerfuneralhomes.com to offer your condolences. 

Darrell Libke

Darrell D. Libke, 74, passed away at the UI Hospitals in Iowa City on Sept. 18, 2018, from complications of cancer surgery. 

Funeral services were held Monday, Sept. 24, at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner with Rev. Tracy Hinkel officiating. 

Interment followed at Union Mound Cemetery in Sumner. 

Becker-Milnes Funeral Home was in charge of services.

Darrell Libke was born July 12, 1944, in Aurelia, Iowa, son of Albert and Alice (Lydell) Libke. 

He graduated from Aurelia High School in 1962 and Buena Vista College in 1966. In 1975 he earned an MA degree from UNI in speech with emphasis in oral interpretation.

In 1975 he married Nancy Samuelson; they made their home in Sumner. Together they shared many great travels, exploring the U.S. and its history, enjoying all types of theatre throughout the Midwest, and discovering great restaurants. 

Their daughter Adrianne was a wonderful addition to their lives, joining them in numerous adventures even from an early age. They joyfully welcomed son-in-law Ryan and later, grandchildren Norah and Grant.

Darrell began his teaching career in Malvern and later, Glenwood in southwest Iowa. In 1970 he began a 30-year career at West Central, Maynard, teaching high school English, coaching both group and individual contest speech, and directing countless plays and musicals. In 2001 he was inducted into the Iowa High School Speech Association Hall of Fame.

After retirement his love of teaching led him back to West Central for long-term substituting and as an adjunct instructor for NICC until 2017.

Darrell was an active member of St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner; through the years he served as a deacon, confirmation teacher, scripture reader, and part of the ‘counting team.’

Beyond his family, career and church, Darrell took pride in his community. He was a charter member of the Sumner Lions Club and later returned to active involvement in fundraising activities, as well as serving in several officer positions. In 2012 he was honored by being named a Melvin Jones Fellow through the Lions Club. 

Darrell also worked with the local United Fund for several years to help the community. The Sumner Community Theatre benefitted from his efforts on stage, behind the scenes, and as a director. In later years he continued judging for the Iowa High School Speech Association, as well as serving as an officer for the Hall of Fame.

Although he always said teaching was his real hobby, puzzles, staying current on the news (and talking back at it), clipping coupons, and visiting with people were his everyday pleasures. Time spent with kids, grandkids, his sister, cousins, and friends was always the best.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Duane and Dennis.

He is survived by his wife, daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren, sister Ellen, sister-in-law Leann, cousins, and nieces.           39u39

James Fossan

James Edward Fossan passed away on Thursday, Sept. 6, 2018, at Duke University Hospital after a short illness. He was 56 years of age.  

He was a resident of Faith Homes in Durham, N.C., where he was affectionately known as “Gramps” to fellow residents and staff.  

He was a faithful member of Peace Church, attending services there for at least 10 years. 

James is survived by his father, Ernest Fossan of Texas; his maternal uncle and aunt, Millard and LaVonne Nelson of Decorah, Iowa; cousins Ann Rowland, Linda Martin, Mark Nelson and Laurie Biedermann, all of Iowa; numerous second cousins; and many brothers and sisters in Christ at Peace Church.  

He was preceded in death by his mother, Judith Nelson Fossan, and his brother, Thomas Fossan.

A celebration of James’s life in Christ was held Saturday, Sept. 22, at Peace Church, Durham, N.C. 

    39u39

Joann Teel

Funeral services for Joann Marie Teel, 61, of Wadena will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 5, 2018 at Fawcett Funeral Home in Winthrop with Pastor Sue Ann Raymond officiating. 

Casket bearers will be Jordon Teel, Zach Burns, Tyler Burns, Chad King, Dean DeGreif, and Steve Boleyn. Honorary bearers will be Nathan Teel and Raymond Teel. 

Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery at Winthrop. 

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018, and after 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 5, 2018, at Fawcett Funeral Home in Winthrop. 

Joann entered into her eternal rest on Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2018, at her rural Wadena home. 

Joann Marie Teel was born July 20, 1957, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, the daughter of Raymond and Marlys Shepard Carlson.  

She attended school at Washburn Elementary and West High School in Waterloo, Iowa.

Joann was united in marriage with Frank Teel on March 8, 1974, at Church of Christ United in Winthrop, Iowa. To this union were born four children: Melissa, Shaun, Christopher, and Michelle. They lived in Winthrop for many years until Frank passed away on March 28, 1999. 

Joann lived near Wadena, Iowa, with Fred DeGreif the past 18 years, and a son, James DeGreif, was born to them.  

Joann loved animals and had many pet dogs and cats at her home. She liked to tan and get tattoos, as well as glisten with sparkle and glitter. Her hobbies included following dirt track racing (especially when Chris raced) and listening to rock-‘n’-roll music. 

Preceding her in death were her father, Raymond Carlson; her husband, Frank; her son, Shaun; and her brother, Elmer Carlson.

Survivors include her husband, Fred DeGreif, of Wadena; her children, Melissa (Mitch Frakes) of Eagle Grove, IA, Christopher (Tara) Teel of Webster City, IA, Michelle (Keith Schneider) of West Union, IA, James DeGreif of Wadena, Samantha and Nicole DeGreif of Independence, IA; her mother, Marlys (Vince) Tookey of Eagle Grove; eight grandchildren; three brothers and two sisters: Ray Carlson of Castalia, IA, Mike Carlson of Mount Auburn, IA, Jeanette Spencer of Fort Dodge, IA, John Carlson of Goldfield, IA, and Lora Thompson of Fort Dodge, IA; and many other relatives and friends. 

Condolences may be left online at www.fawcettsfuneralhome.com under Obituaries.    40u40

Don Lee

Donald C. Lee, 62, of rural Hawkeye, died unexpectedly Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, at Mercy Hospital of Franciscan Sisters in Oelwein.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, at United Methodist Church in Hawkeye with Mona Christie, Lay Servant, officiating. 

Visitation was set for 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding the service at the church on Wednesday. 

Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation. 

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

Donald Cletus, son of Donald and Eileen (Fettkether) Lee, was born Feb. 14, 1956, at Mercy Hospital in Oelwein. 

He was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic Faith.

Donald received his early education in the Oelwein schools prior to graduating from North High School, and he would continue his education in Auto Tech at Area 1 (now known as N.I.C.C.) in Calmar. 

On July 10, 1976, he was united in marriage with Lynn McIntyre at United Methodist Church in Hawkeye. To this union three children were born, Tara, Annie, and Kensey.

Donald worked at Paul Niemann Construction in Sumner, Purina Mills in Oelwein, and for the last 10 years was the Maintenance Supervisor at International Ingredient Corporation in Oelwein. 

He was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Hawkeye. 

Donald had a strong work ethic and enjoyed being able to make things work. He also enjoyed his pets, old tractors, Ford Mustangs, attending demolition derbies and antique power shows, but most especially enjoyed time with his family and grandchildren.

Donald is survived by his wife, Lynn, of Hawkeye; three children, Tara (Chad) Thompson of Sumner and their children Paige and Owen, Annie (Travis) Lamphier of West Union and their daughter, Kora, and Kensey of Hawkeye and his daughter, Keira; his mother, Eileen Lee, of Hawkeye; two brothers, Delbert (Toni) Lee of Oran and Darrell (Rhonda) Lee of West Union and their children, Brianna Lee of Rochester, Carissa Lee, and Dillon Lee, both of West Union; a sister, Eileen (Gary) Schlawin of Elgin and their children, Hunter and Carter Schlawin of Elgin, and Dustin Schlawin of Guttenberg, and Dustin’s daughter Amber; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, LaFonda and Wally McIntyre, of Hawkeye; a sister-in-law, Lori (Brad) Halverson and their son, Ty Halverson, all of Hawkeye; Marvin Lee of Oklahoma and Shirley Lee of Tripoli; several aunts, uncles, cousins; and his two pets, Relly and Oliver.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald; two brothers, David and Darwin, who died in infancy; and one brother-in-law, Kenn McIntyre.                 40u40

Erwin Franke

Funeral services for Erwin Carl Franke were held Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Spring Valley, Minn., with Rev Mark Van House officiating. 

Burial was in the church cemetery. 

Hindt Funeral Home in Spring Valley, Minn., was in charge of arrangements. 

Erwin Carl Franke, son of John and Ida (Schlenner) Franke, was born on a farm five miles south of Gaylord, Minn., on Dec. 22, 1919.

On Jan. 18, 1920, he was baptized into the membership of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gaylord, Minn., by Rev. Tychsen.  On May 20, 1934 he was also confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran by Rev. Wm. Uhrich.

  Erwin graduated from Gaylord High School as valedictorian in the spring of 1939.  In the spring of 1943 he graduated from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, and on May 16, 1945 he graduated from Wartburg Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa.

  On May 30, 1945 he was united in holy matrimony with Dorothy Irene Drinkall in the former Zion Lutheran Church of Spring Valley, Minn.  This union was blessed with five children, John, Joyce, Leona, Linda, and Mark.

On June 10, 1945 Erwin was ordained in the Lutheran ministry in St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gaylord, Minn., by Rev. George Mattiae.

On June 17, 1945 he was installed as pastor of the former Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Belgrade, Minn. In April 1948 he became the pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in West Union, Iowa. After serving there for 10 years, he became the pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco, Iowa, in March 1958.  On Sept. 24, 1978 Pastor Franke was installed as pastor of Deer Creek Lutheran Church of Carpenter, Iowa.  He served there until March 31, 1995, when he retired and he and Irene moved to Spring Valley, Minn.

Pastor Franke had a talent for raising money.  He was pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in West Union when they built a new parsonage and made plans for the new church and education unit. While in Cresco, a new parsonage and education unit were built. In Carpenter, a new elevator/lift addition was built onto the church.

  The thing Pastor Franke enjoyed most was preaching. On Nov. 20, 1966, Immanuel Lutheran Church of Cresco started broadcasting its Sunday morning service over KFIL radio of Preston, Minn.  After doing this for 12 years, he moved to Carpenter and continued to broadcast for 16 years over radio stations in Austin, Minn., and Mason City, Iowa.

  Pastor Franke’s hobby was farming. Some called him the “preacher-farmer.”  In this way he paid for their farm northeast of Spring Valley and also put all of their five children through college or gave them the equivalent in cash. 

Erwin was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ida Franke; his wife, Irene; brothers Raymond and William; sisters Viola and Elmira; and daughter Leona Keune.

Those who mourn his passing are his children, John Franke (Debbie) of Raleigh, N.C., Joyce Hansel (Al) of Claremont, Minn., Linda Bengfort (Scott) of Davenport, IA, Mark Franke (Cioney) of Austin, Texas.  

Online condolences may be left at www.Hindtfuneralhomes.com.     40u40

Patricia Froning

Funeral services for Patricia N. Froning, 82, of Hazleton will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, at First Baptist Church in Oelwein.

Visitation has been set for 4-8 p.m. today (Wednesday, Oct. 3) at Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein and for one hour before the service at the church on Thursday.

Patricia died Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, at Grandview Health Care Center in Oelwein.

Gary Grap

Gary Sylvester Grap, 67, of Dubuque passed away peacefully holding his beloved daughter’s hand on Friday, Sept. 28, 2018 following a reoccurrence of leukemia.

  Visitation will be on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m.  

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the church, where friends may gather after 9 a.m.  

Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Greenwood, Wis., at a later date. 

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory of Dubuque, IA is in charge of arrangements.

  Gary was born at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Wis., to Edna (Hinker) and Franklin “Kaiser” Grap on Feb. 23, 1951.  

He began his education at St. Raphael’s School in Madison and later at St. Francis DeSales Catholic School in Ossian, Iowa. Gary graduated from DeSales High School in 1969 and then from Loras College in 1973.

  In 1973, Gary married Margaret Patzner.  

Gary married Theresa Ernst in 1990.

  Over the years, Gary was employed at AY McDonald, Dubuque Pack /FDL, Tom Maher Insurance, Hillcrest Family Services, and finally with the U.S. Postal Service, from which he retired.

  Faith and family were very important to Gary, and he was active in his parish of St. Joseph the Worker, serving as lector, Eucharistic Minister and usher.  He was also involved in the Community of the Living Word, Emmaus and CEW.   Gary belonged to Knights of Columbus Council 510, Wahlert Booster Club, and NALC Branch 257.  

Gary also enjoyed his affiliation with Dubuque Jaycees, Midwest Club Volleyball, Galena Spikers Volleyball, Dubuque Soccer Club and various softball leagues.

  He is survived by his seven children, Conan Grap, Mya (Kevin) Calaro, Martia Ernst, Kaiser (Candis) Grap, Garrett Grap, Magdalena and Lola Grap and one grandchild Elle B.  

He is also survived by his sister, Cheryl (Robert) Werner, and sister-in-law, Vickie Grap, along with treasured nieces, nephews and cousins, including Louie Cota.

  Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Greg Huinker; a brother, Wayne Grap; a sister, Patty Ann, in infancy; and beloved extended family members.

   In lieu of flowers, a Gary S. Grap Memorial has been established.           40u40

Marlys Lien

Marlys Lien, age 82, of Decorah, IA died Friday, Sept. 28, 2018 at Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah surrounded by her family. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today (Wednesday, Oct. 3) at Springfield Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. David Werges will officiate.

Interment will be held in the church cemetery. Casket bearers will be Marlys’ grandchildren Kari, Aaron, Megan, Mikayla, Isaac, Taylor and Shayla Lien.

Schluter-Balik Funeral Home, Decorah, is in charge of arrangements.

Marlys was born Oct. 28, 1935, daughter of William H. (Bill) and Esther (Nordheim) Wilkens, in Decorah, IA. 

She attended Pleasant No. 2 Country School and Decorah High School. She continued her education at Luther College, completing a two-year program, and also attended summer school in Boulder, Colo. 

Marlys was a teacher in Postville, IA and Calmar Public School. For a time, she also ran a preschool in Calmar, IA. Marlys then went on to serve as the South Winneshiek Elementary librarian in Ossian, IA. 

Marlys’s lifelong love of literacy education was inspired by her work with preschool and elementary-aged children. She held a lifelong childlike spirit and could be seen leading leaf walks in the fall, making snow angels in the winter, making hollyhock dolls in the spring, and blowing bubbles using nontraditional bubble wands in the summer. 

Marlys was an active part of her classroom, and part of her love of teaching was finding a way to reach every child in the best way she knew how. There was no hesitation in being on the floor with the children and doing the activities along with them. She made sure when mentoring student teachers in her classroom that they understood the importance of engaging children by knowing their needs.  

After 20 years in education, Marlys realized a lifelong dream of owning and operating a children’s bookstore named “Once Upon a Time,” which opened in fall of 1994. As a part of her community outreach, she continued to visit schools as “The Story Lady,” which is how thousands of children across Iowa knew her best.

One of her greatest wishes of her bookstore was to place a book in every child’s hands. Those who survive her hope to carry out that mission. When Marlys opened the cover of a book, the magic happened as the story began. ​Marlys was a champion of children’s literary achievement and celebrated the victories, big and small, of her students, as well as children, grandchildren and adults.  

Her achievements were recognized in 2014 by the Iowa Reading Association in awarding her the Celebrate Literacy Award. Upon receiving the award, Marlys had this to say, “It’s what I love to do. I’m not sure I should get an award because doing it all these years has been my reward!”  

Marlys married ​Robert (Bob) Lien on June 2, 1957 at Decorah Lutheran Church. 

She was involved with the farm work, and Marlys was also active in promoting the importance of agriculture. That extended to her volunteer work in the community, including 4-H, Winneshiek County Fair Board, and a variety of roles within Springfield Lutheran Church.  

Marlys and Bob’s home was open to everyone, and they hosted many, including foreign exchange students, as well as students from the Scandinavian Teachers Institute for many years, This was in addition to family, friends, and those who were in need of inclusion.  

Her favorite book of all was the Bible. Marlys brought her faith to life for the Sunday school children she ministered to through F.R.O.G.s. (Forever Rely on God.) She lived out the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself, and later in life, she took great joy in ministering to those who were unable to attend services. 

Marlys is survived by three sons, Gary (Patty) Lien of Calmar, IA, Scott (Sally) Lien of Newport Beach, Calif., and Kris (Pamela) Lien of Sheldon, IA; seven grandchildren, Kari, Aaron, Megan and Mikayla Lien, Isaac Lien, Taylor and Shayla Lien; a son-in-law, Gary Rausch of Decorah; a sister, Mary (Jon) Jensen of College Place, Wash.; a brother, Bill (Barbara) Wilkens of Franklin, N.C.; sisters-in-law Jeanie Wilkens of St. Joseph, Minn., Viola Linderbaum of Ossian, IA, Celia (Harold) Stoen of Highlandville, IA, and Helen Thune of Davenport, IA;  brothers-in-law, Ray (Aurora) Lien of Orlando, Fla., and Harold (Janice) Lien of Rochester, Minn.  

Marlys was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Esther (Nordheim) and William H. “Bill” Wilkens; her husband, Robert “Bob” Lien; her daughter, Deb (Lien) Rausch; her brother, Wilbur Wilkens; her sister-in-law, Phyllis Wilkens, as well as two brothers-in-law, Dean Thune and Conley Linderbaum.      40u40

Julie (McIntyre) Ash

Word has been received of the death of Julie (McIntyre) Ash of Charles City, formerly of West Union. 

Julie’s death occurred on Sept. 9, 2018.

She was the daughter of the late Newell “Mac” and Verla McIntyre and sister to Nick McIntyre, Holly Heying, and John McIntyre.

Condolences can be sent to the family in care of Walter Ash III, P.O. Box 244, Charles City, IA 50616.

Patricia Froning

Patricia N. Froning, 82, of Hazleton, Iowa died Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 at Grandview Health Care Center in Oelwein, Iowa.

Funeral services were held Thursday, Oct. 4, at First Baptist Church in Oelwein with Pastor Dave Byrd officiating.

Interment was in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, rural Oelwein.

Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein, was in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be given in Patricia’s name to First Baptist Church, Hazleton School Museum, or Mended Hearts of the Cedar Valley.

Online obituary is at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Patricia Nadine Bridges was born on Nov. 17, 1935 in Carthage, Mo., the daughter of Fred Cecil and Katherine Dorothy (Hughson) Bridges. 

She graduated from Hazleton High School in Hazleton, Iowa in 1954 and from Cosmetology School in Waterloo, Iowa in 1955. 

Pat married Loyd William Froning on May 8, 1955 at First Baptist Church in Oelwein, Iowa.

She was a hairstylist for 53 years, owning and operating Pat’s Beauty Shop in Hazleton and later working at Cardin’s Beauty Shop in Oelwein, retiring in 2008. 

Pat was a member of First Baptist Church, where she held numerous offices.  

She was also a member of the Cosmetology Association of Iowa for 52 years, Hazleton Commercial Club, Hazleton Housing Corporation, Hazleton School Museum, Buchanan County Tourism, Mended Hearts of the Cedar Valley, Hazleton Veterans Park, and neighborhood coffee groups in Hazleton.  

Pat enjoyed reading, collecting recipes, flowers and embroidery.

Pat is survived by her son, James Froning of Little Rock, Ark.; her daughter, Joylyn Steinfadt of Atkins; two grandchildren, Cathrine Steinfadt (Kurt) Martinson of Haysville, Kan., and George Steinfadt of Atkins; a stepgrandson, Brent Parker of West Union; two foster grandchildren, Adriana Schults and Alex Schults, both of Little Rock, Ark.; a sister, Phyllis (LaVerne) Lentz of Aurora, Iowa; a brother, Darrel (Pat) Bridges of Bondurant, Iowa; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband on July 8, 2014; and two brothers, Charles Robert Bridges in infancy and Delbert Bridges.          41u41

Alyce McFadden

Alyce J. McFadden, 80, of West Union, Iowa died Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018 at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette, Iowa.  

Alyce Jean, the daughter of Frank and Bernice (Bennington) Kimpling, was born Sept. 29, 1937 in Pontiac, Ill. 

She graduated from Streeter High School in Streeter, Ill., on May 24, 1955.  

Alyce was united in marriage with Marvin Woltzen on Sept. 7, 1958 in Long Point, Ill.  To this union three sons, Mike, Darryl, and Richard, were born.  

Alyce and Marvin farmed for many years in the rural West Union area. Alyce also worked for many years as a teller at Farmers Savings Bank in West Union. 

Marvin passed away on Nov. 30, 2003, and Alyce was then united in marriage with John McFadden on June 25, 2008 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette, Iowa.

Alyce was very active in the Hawkeye and West Union United Methodist Churches and United Methodist Women.  

She enjoyed camping, boating on the Mississippi, ceramics, knitting, playing cards, bowling, gardening, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Alyce is survived by her husband, John McFadden, of Sumner, Iowa; three sons, Mike (Teressa) Woltzen, Darryl (fiancée Becky O’Dell) Woltzen, and Richard (Rhonda) Woltzen, all of West Union, Iowa; 13 grandchildren, Aaron (Kris) Woltzen, Tristia Woltzen, Holli (Steve Krull) Vagts, Trent (Breanna) Woltzen, Corey (Becca) O’Dell, Kyle (Brean) Woltzen, Amber (Dan Figdore) Woltzen, Jentry Woltzen, Rhett Woltzen, Joseph Woltzen, Kendra (Clayton) Cameron, Matthew Helgerson, and Raven Green; 16 great-grandchildren; siblings Margaret Murray of Streeter, Ill., Carol (Bud) Kaminke of Long Point, Ill., and Sam (Sandy) Kimpling of Long Point, Ill.

Alyce was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin; her parents, Frank and Bernice; a brother, Bill Kimpling; and a sister, Nancy Maxwell.

   Memorial Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018 at West Union United Methodist Church in West Union, Iowa with Rev. Chris Ebbers as the officiant.

Visitation will be held one hour before services at the church on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018.

Inurnment will be held in the West Union Cemetery, West Union, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services of West Union, Iowa is assisting the family with arrangements.    41u41

Services held for Julienne Wander of Clermont

Julienne Maedel Wander, 77, of Clermont, Iowa died Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon, Iowa.  

Julienne was born to Richard and Violet (Miller) Hangartner on July 23, 1941 at her rural Postville home. 

She attended Postville Junction Country School and graduated from Postville High School in 1958. 

Julienne was united in marriage with James Wander on June 23, 1959. To this union three children were born. She and Jim had a Century Farm outside of Clermont where they lived until 1983.  

As well as being a farm wife, Julienne also worked for REC and Frisch Dentist Office both in Postville. 

She enjoyed traveling with her friends Donna and Leanna.  Some of her favorite places she visited were Paris, Israel and Germany.

She was a longtime member of West Clermont Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir and was a member of Ruth Circle. 

She was also a member of the Treore Club and the American Legion Auxiliary in Clermont. 

She liked to sit and watch the sun set in her house with good coffee and dark chocolate. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. 

Julienne is survived by her children, Kelly (Rose) Wander of Elgin, Iowa, Kim Wander of West Union, Iowa and Kyle (Kathy) Wander of Clermont, Iowa; nine grandchildren, Joshua (Claire) Wander, Jessica (Jon) Baker, Christopher Wander, Steven (Katie) Kress, Nicholas Wander, Johnathon Wander, Hope Wander, Daniel Wander, and Brendan Wander; one great-grandchild, Harrison Wander; one sister, Peggy Hangartner of Postville; nieces and nephews Jason Hangartner, David (Tiphnie) Sanborn, Andy (Michelle) Sanborn, Jay Rekow, Katie (Kent) Schupbach, and Shaun Rekow; great-nieces and -nephews Logan, Morgan, Ethan, and Lucy Hangartner, Pierce Sanborn, Orion Sanborn, Brieanna Tanner and Layla Rekow, Ava, Ella, Brody, Brynly and Jace Schupbach; and two brothers-in-law, Steve (Eileen) Wander of Elgin, Iowa and Ron Sanborn of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Julienne was preceded in death by her husband, James Wander, on Nov. 24, 2004; her parents, Richard and Violet Hangartner; and one sister, Linda Sanborn.

Funeral Service was held on Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018 at West Clermont Church, Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Gary Catterson as the officiant.

Private inurnment will be held at a later date.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Clermont, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.      41u41

Services held for Julienne Wander of Clermont

Julienne Maedel Wander, 77, of Clermont, Iowa died Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon, Iowa.  

Julienne was born to Richard and Violet (Miller) Hangartner on July 23, 1941 at her rural Postville home. 

She attended Postville Junction Country School and graduated from Postville High School in 1958. 

Julienne was united in marriage with James Wander on June 23, 1959. To this union three children were born. She and Jim had a Century Farm outside of Clermont where they lived until 1983.  

As well as being a farm wife, Julienne also worked for REC and Frisch Dentist Office both in Postville. 

She enjoyed traveling with her friends Donna and Leanna.  Some of her favorite places she visited were Paris, Israel and Germany.

She was a longtime member of West Clermont Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir and was a member of Ruth Circle. 

She was also a member of the Treore Club and the American Legion Auxiliary in Clermont. 

She liked to sit and watch the sun set in her house with good coffee and dark chocolate. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. 

Julienne is survived by her children, Kelly (Rose) Wander of Elgin, Iowa, Kim Wander of West Union, Iowa and Kyle (Kathy) Wander of Clermont, Iowa; nine grandchildren, Joshua (Claire) Wander, Jessica (Jon) Baker, Christopher Wander, Steven (Katie) Kress, Nicholas Wander, Johnathon Wander, Hope Wander, Daniel Wander, and Brendan Wander; one great-grandchild, Harrison Wander; one sister, Peggy Hangartner of Postville; nieces and nephews Jason Hangartner, David (Tiphnie) Sanborn, Andy (Michelle) Sanborn, Jay Rekow, Katie (Kent) Schupbach, and Shaun Rekow; great-nieces and -nephews Logan, Morgan, Ethan, and Lucy Hangartner, Pierce Sanborn, Orion Sanborn, Brieanna Tanner and Layla Rekow, Ava, Ella, Brody, Brynly and Jace Schupbach; and two brothers-in-law, Steve (Eileen) Wander of Elgin, Iowa and Ron Sanborn of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Julienne was preceded in death by her husband, James Wander, on Nov. 24, 2004; her parents, Richard and Violet Hangartner; and one sister, Linda Sanborn.

Funeral Service was held on Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018 at West Clermont Church, Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Gary Catterson as the officiant.

Private inurnment will be held at a later date.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Clermont, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.      41u41

Marvellis Dixon

Marvellis May Dixon, 83, of West Union, Iowa died Friday, Oct. 12, 2018 at her residence in West Union, Iowa. 

Marvellis May was born Dec. 9, 1934 on the family farm in Chadwick, Ill. She was the daughter of Frank and Florence (Kendall) Prowant. 

She was baptized in the Methodist Church in Milledgeville, Ill. 

On June 27, 1953 she was united in marriage to Walter J. Dixon in Kansas City, Mo.

Marvellis spent 19 years in a banking career, 14 years as an administrative assistant with Society Bank in Cleveland, Ohio, then five years as a senior client representative in the court order department of First Chicago Bank of Wheaton, Ill. 

She lived in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, for 26 years. 

In 1961 she joined the Lutheran Church and was a current member of Zion Lutheran Church in West Union. 

Marvellis enjoyed golf, travel, antiques, and her annual trip to Kitty Hawk, N.C., with family and friends since the 1970s, but her most treasured activity was spending time with all of her grandchildren. 

Survivors include two daughters, Lori Dixon Carey and husband Matt of Randalia, Dee Ann Speece of Bucyrus, Ohio; three grandchildren, Elizabeth Comerford (William), Joseph Walter Dixon Sodoma, Matthew John Dixon Sodoma (Sarah); three great-grandchildren, Seamus Comerford, Lorelei Comerford, Eliza Jane Sodoma; brother, Clare L. Prowant (Karen) of Clarksville, Fla.; and sisters-in-law Carol Schiro of Rockford, Ill., Ruth French of Savanna, Ill., Bonnie Lamoreux of Illinois; many beloved nieces and nephews; and her beloved pets, Chloe, Darcy and Misty. 

She was preceded in death by parents; her husband in 2006; two brothers, Frank J. Prowant and W. Dean Prowant. 

  Visitation was set for 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2018 at Zion Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa.

Funeral Service were set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2018 at Zion Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa with Rev. Adam Starrett as the officiant.

Burial will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2018 at Oak Hill Cemetery, Mt. Carroll, Ill.

Lunch at Manny’s in Savannah, Ill., will follow the burial. 

Memorials may be given to Humane Society of NE Iowa, 2345 Millennium Road, Decorah, IA 52101.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of West Union, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.    42u42

Harold Popenhagen

Harold Joy Popenhagen, Wadena, died on Tuesday, October 9, 2018, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union.

He was born on May 7, 1924, near Wadena in lllyria Township, Fayette County, the oldest child of Joy and Fern (Ward) Popenhagen.

His family farmed southeast of Wadena in Fairfield Township, where he attended country school. During high school he walked or rode his pony from home to Wadena. The family later farmed near Lima and at that time Harold entered the Army, serving in Virginia until medically discharged. 

Harold was united in marriage to Leone Corrine Anfinson of Lima, on June 11, 1950, at the Bethel Presbyterian Church, West Union. They farmed east of Wadena on his grandparents’ farm at Steamboat Mound. Harold also hauled canned milk for the Wadena Creamery. 

In 1957, Harold and family moved to Wadena where he owned and operated Harold's DX in the late 60's and early 70's. Later he worked as a carpenter and also as a driver for Northeast Iowa Community Action. Harold also was a bus driver for the Valley Community School District, served as a member of the Wadena-Illyria Fire Department, and was an active member of the Wadena Presbyterian Church.

Harold enjoyed singing and playing guitar, camping, hunting, snowmobiling, relating stories of his youth, and working on his tractors. 

Harold is survived by his wife of sixty-eight years, Leone, and the following children and grandchildren: Larry and his son, Ean, of Wadena and Larry's step-daughter Devin (Raul) Herrera and their daughter Delanie of Royal Palm Beach, Florida; Ron (Ludvika), Aix, France and children Darius and Renata of Los Angeles, California; Charla (Don) Mailey and children Sari and Rhiannon of Minnetrista, Minnesota. 

Also surviving are Harold's sisters, Shirley Kleinlein of Arlington and Dora (Jerry) Bortels of Oelwein as well as brother-in-law Darrel (Bonnie) Anfinson of Cedar Rapids and sister-in-law Kolleen Asaad of Danville, Illinois and brother-in-law Verle Pugh of Strawberry Point. 

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Joy and Fern; his brother, Russ; his sister, Mabel Bockholt; sister-in-law, Darlene Pugh; brothers-in-law, Duane Bockholt and Norman Kleinlein; maternal grandparents, John and Moldonata (Wooldridge) Ward; and his parents-in-law, Leonard and Catharine (Bishop) Anfinson. 

Visitation will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 19, 2018, at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa. There will also be a one hour visitation before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Wadena Community Church in Wadena, Iowa, with Pastor Rusty Phillips as the officiant.

Burial will follow at the Wadena Cemetery, Wadena, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of West Union, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.

Doris West

Doris J. West, 87, of Oelwein, Iowa, formerly of Randalia, IA, and Mission, Texas, died of natural causes at Mercy Living Plus in Oelwein on Sunday evening, October 7, 2018.

Graveside memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018 at the Alpha Cemetery, Alpha, Iowa with Rev. Dennis Frank officiating. A reception will follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Oelwein.

Inurnment will be held at the Alpha Cemetery, Alpha, Iowa.

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

Online obituary is at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Doris Jane Buenzow was born on September 28, 1931, in West Union, Iowa, the daughter of Ernest Fred & Hattie (Pfahning) Buenzow. 

She graduated from West Union High School with the class of 1948.  Doris was united in marriage to Leslie George West, Sr. on December 17, 1960, in West Union, Iowa. 

Doris worked at the Fayette County Recorder's office at the courthouse in West Union for 41 years, the last three years as the Fayette County Recorder, retiring in 1993. She had formerly been a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Maynard.  During the prime of her life, Doris enjoyed traveling, fishing, and playing cards with friends and family.  She kept active during retirement by engaging in activities with friends in Texas, including bingo, card games, numerous social activities. ‘Grandma’ was known for her excellent cooking and baking and always had a cookie for her guests.  Her pleasant demeanor and strong moral character will be missed. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to David and Sherry Scheffert for all of the help and support they have given Doris over the years.

Doris is survived by her three sons: James West of Harvard, Illinois; David (Jill) West of North Liberty and

John (Hope) West of Randalia; four step children: Leslie (Ruth) West, Jr. of New Waverly, Texas; Michael (Teresa) West of New Waverly, Texas;  Mary (Gary) Anderson of Mason City and

Lila McCracken of Lancaster, Wisconsin; seven grandchildren; one great grandson; a sister, Arlene Brickman of Oelwein and a brother, Dale (Janette) Buenzow of Marion.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leslie, on May 10, 2011; a stepdaughter, Jane Archibeque; and a brother, Kenneth Buenzow.

Murvel Barness

  Murvel D. Barness, 75, of Waukon, IA, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018.

  Memorial services with military honors were held Monday, Oct. 15, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church in Waukon with Pastor Wayne Ellingson officiating. Visitation was held  from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 14, at Martin Funeral Home in Waukon.

     Murvel Duane Barness was born on June 23, 1943, in Decorah, IA, the son of John and Gladys (Kleppe) Barness. He attended Ossian Public Schools and was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church in Ossian, IA.

 Murvel enlisted in the United States Army at 18 and proudly served his country from 1962-70. He attended basic training at Fort Carson, CO, and was later stationed in Korea, Japan, Fort Sill, OK, and Fort Hood, TX. He earned the rank of Staff Sergeant and was a veteran of the Vietnam War.

     After receiving an honorable discharge from the Army, Murvel returned home to Ossian to work on his family farm. He also worked as a carpenter, milk hauler, and later continued his career at Bruening Rock and Northern Engraving. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, making kumla and lefse for his family, and loved woodworking - especially for his grandchildren.

     Murvel is survived by his wife Cindy (Palas) O'Neill of Waukon; his first wife Margaret (Thiel) Anderson and their four children: Debra (David) Panka of Prairie du Chien, WI, Troy (Amy) Barness and Kris (Tina) Barness, both of Ossian, and Gary (Nick Wallin) Barness of Calmar, IA; stepchildren: Tyler O'Neill of Waukon and Tiffany (Matt) Heuer of Mason City, IA; 12 grandchildren: Nicholas, Nathan, Kaitie, Samantha, Daphne, Jonathan, Bradan, Brock, Brody, Andrew, Emma, and Ainsley; two great-grandchildren: Nora and Otto; three siblings: Sharon Butterfield of California, Joyce (Rick Villemaire) Barness of Florida, and Janet (Mike) Gerleman of Creston, IA; a sister-in-law Shirley Barness of West Union, IA; and his best buddy Toby.

     He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Gordon, Lloyd, and Clifford Barness; and brother-in-law Keith Butterfield. 

     Honorary casketbearers were Gordalana Neubauer, Barbara Schroeder, Lee Barness, Brent Butterfield, and Ben, Brian, and Cory Gerleman.

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