Harvey Ungerer

Harvey L. Ungerer, 87, of Hawkeye, died Thursday, October 17, 2019, at his home in rural Hawkeye, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services were held held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 22, 2019, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye with Rev. Ron Roberts officiating. Burial will follow at Windsor Township Cemetery, rural Hawkeye with military rites provided by Arnold Rogers Post #312, American Legion of Hawkeye. Visitation was from 4 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, October 21^st at Trinity Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding services at the church on Tuesday. Memorials may be made in Harvey’s name to Trinity Lutheran Church or American Legion, both in Hawkeye. Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye assisted Harvey’s family. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com Harvey LeRoy, son of LeRoy and Edna (Pleggenkuhle) Ungerer was born June 29, 1932, in Hawkeye. He was baptized July 31, 1932, and confirmed March 30, 1947, both at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye. Harvey graduated from Hawkeye High School on May 12, 1950, and would continue his education at Iowa State University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree. He enlisted in the United States Army on April 7, 1953, and served honorably during the Korean Conflict prior to being discharged on April 21, 1958, at Fort Carson, Colorado. During his service Harvey was awarded with the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and Korean Service Medal.  On June 3, 1958, he was united in marriage with Betty Kohlmeyer at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Harvey was a long time farmer in the rural Hawkeye area. He was a life time member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where he served on the Church Council for many years, the Boy Scouts of America, Pioneer Cemetery Association, and the Fayette County VA. Harvey was a loving father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was always willing to help people, in any way he could. He had a strong love for his country and was very proud of his service. Harvey felt blessed to be able to go on the Honor Flight to Washington D.C. in 2018, with his son, Brent. Also in 2018, he was honored as the Grand Marshall of the Hawkeye Fun Days. Harvey enjoyed farming, fishing, playing cards, but most especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

Harvey is survived by his two sons, Brent (Renee) Ungerer of Hawkeye and Kurt (Rogina) Ungerer of Bentonville, Arkansas; six grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; brother, Dale (Annagene) Ungerer of Hawkeye, sister, Janice Johanson of Clermont; and sister-in-law, Linda Ahrenholz of Janesville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Betty on July 22, 2010.

Richard Vagts

Richard Loren Vagts was born on a farm near Eldorado on December 18, 1924 to Ewald Henry and Anna Eleanor (Pape) Vagts.   He was baptized January 18, 1925at St. Peter Lutheran Church by Rev. F. Schedtler in Eldorado and confirmed April 2, 1939 by Rev. William A. Foege. He remained a lifetime member of St. Peter, serving as organist there for over 50 years.

            Richard attended the single room Dover No.2 school in Eldorado and graduated from West Union High in 1942.  Although he had dreams of becoming a railroad engineer, he spent the summer of '42 fully expecting to become a lifelong farmer until one day Ewald came to his room with startling news, "Wartburg College starts today, and I think you should go".  That morning, young Richard packed a few clothes and drove himself to Wartburg, where a semester of college cost $182.   After a year of college, with the draft age recently lowered from 21 to 18, he returned home to await his call to service.  He worked as a butter maker at the West Union Farmers Creamery until he enlisted in 1949.  In the Army, he was trained as a radar operator, but in the Korean War served as an infantry rifleman with the 5^thCavalry where he was awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Korean Service Medal, three bronze battle stars, and the United Nations Service Ribbon.

            After discharge from the Army, he began work as a bookkeeper at the First National Bank of West Union, where he worked 34 years becoming sr. vice president and secretary of the board.  One day, the young bookkeeper made a momentous visit to Dr. Jerdee's office in Clermont seeking a treatment for dandruff, where he met the beautiful receptionist Lavanda Angeline Olsen.  They were married on May 4, 1958, a perfect union that lasted until her passing on March 2, 2018.

            He was an avid wood and metal worker, steam & antique engine enthusiast, could fix anything, exercised every day, and was devoted to his family and faith.   He served his family, church and community throughout his life as an officer on many organizations including his lifelong church St. Peter Lutheran, the West Union Schools, the American Legion, the Fayette Co Fair, Rotary International, the Good Samaritan Center, and German Mutual Ins Co.

            Richard is survived by his son, David (Sandy) Vagts; grandchildren, Aaron and Hannah Vagts.  He was preceded in death by his wife Lavanda in 2018; parents, Ewald and Anna Vagts; and sister Loretta Shipton.

            Visitation will be held from 3-6 pm on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado, Iowa.

Funeral Service will be at 1:00 pm on Sunday, October 27, 2019 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado, Iowa with Rev. Ginny Olson as the officiant.

Burial with Military Rites will follow at St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery, Eldorado, Iowa.

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

John H. "Jack" Riley, Jr.

John H. “Jack” Riley, Jr., 89, formerly of Galena, Illinois and now a resident of Arlington Place in Oelwein, Iowa died Monday morning, October 7, 2019 at MercyOne Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa with Betty at his side.

Mass of Christian Burial was held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein with Fr. Ray Atwood officiating.

Visitation was from 3:30 to 7 p.m. on Friday and from 9:30 to 10 a.m. on Saturday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein.

Rosary Service was held at 4 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Parish Scripture Service was at 7 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Interment was at the Union Cemetery, Putnam Township, rural Aurora, Iowa.

The Aurora American Legion Honor Guard held a Military Graveside Service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

John Hastings “Jack” Riley was born July 25, 1930 in West Union, Iowa the son of John Hastings and Edna C. (Sloan) Riley, Sr. He attended elementary school at Donnan and graduated from West Union High School in the class of 1948.  Jack continued his education at Upper Iowa University at Fayette and graduated from the Electronic, Radio, Television Institute in Omaha, Nebraska.  Jack was united in marriage to Betty Joan Reed on December 20, 1952 at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union.   Jack worked for United Airlines.  He then served in the U.S. Army Signal Corp. during the Korean Conflict.  During his military service the couple moved to Aberdeen, Maryland.  Jack worked for United Airlines and then continued to work for the airline communications industry at Aeronautical Radio, Inc. (ARINC) in Elk Grove, Illinois, until he retired in 1987.  Betty & Jack moved to Galena, Illinois in 1989 and later purchased a condo in Oelwein in 2000 so that they could divide their time between the two communities.  Jack was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Galena, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein and the Aurora American Legion.  He was so generous and compassionate.  All who knew him will miss him.  His typical Irish humor and wit as Jack is remembered for commenting about his own obituary, “Those that knew me, know what I did in life, those that didn’t know me, missed out.”

Jack is survived by his devoted Wife of 66 years: Betty Riley of Oelwein; Brother-In-Law:  Richard (Ardie) Barnes of Clermont;

32 awesome Nieces and Nephews of whom he cherished and loved to tease; Numerous Great Nieces and Great Nephews; Reed Family In-Laws:  Bonnie Kastli of Oelwein, Charles (Sandy) Reed of Sumner, Nancy (Gary) Maurer of Independence, Gary (Penny) Reed of Maynard, Eugene (Evy) Reed of Winterset, Don (Arleta) Vandersee of Fayette; 6 Godchildren:  Cathleen Cain, Richard Barnes, Lori Kime, Philip Lavin, Mike Warner and Mike Kiley; and countless friends worldwide.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Kathryn Barnes; brother and sister-in-law: Larry (Georgie) Riley; parents-in-law: George and Donna (Pieplow) Reed; and in-laws: Beverly Vandersee, Beulah & Jerry Falck, Dewey Kastli, Georgia & Hal Nolting and Kieron Odekirk.

Jean Groff

Jean Marie Groff, 95, Ossian, IA, formerly of Johnston, IA, passed away October 9, 2019 at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, IA.  Jean (Becker) Groff was born February 20, 1924 in Ossian, IA, the daughter of Charles and Mary (Peyer) Becker. She graduated from De Sales High School in Ossian and attended Hamilton Business College.   

On June 9, 1947, she was united in marriage to Frank Clarence Groff at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian.  After Frank’s graduation from U of I Pharmacy school, they moved to Cresco, IA, where she was a charter member of the Cimota Club. In 1956, they moved to Postville, IA where they owned and operated Groff Drug. Jean was actively involved in the business of managing the cosmetics, greeting cards and soda fountain.  She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed bowling on a league and was a member of the Rosary Society at St Bridget’s Catholic Church while in Postville. She also loved to play sports with the kids in their backyard after evening meals.  She enjoyed extended camping trips across the country with her family in the early 60’s. In 1967 the family moved to Waukon, IA, where Jean began a career with Sears.  Additional moves took them to Waverly and Charles City, where Jean continued her career with Sears. In Charles City, Jean was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Rosary Society and St. Catherine’s Circle.  She retired from Sears in 1983.  Jean and Frank loved to golf and were members of the Wildwood Golf Club in Charles City and the Waukon Country Club.  Upon retirement, Frank and Jean spent their winters in Mesa, AZ. Jean moved to Johnston in 2010 and returned to Ossian in 2017.  Her past times included beautiful counted cross-stitch, playing cards, biking, and working in the yard. 

Jean and Frank were the proud parents of 3 children, all of whom survive: David of Atlanta, GA; Mary (Howard) Eikenberry of Urbandale, IA; Robert (Patricia) of West Chester, PA. Her 4 grandchildren brought her great joy: Erin (Brook) Rumford and Christopher Groff of West Chester, PA; Emily Eikenberry of Des Moines and Sarah Eikenberry of Ocala, FL.  She was blessed with twin great-grandsons in April 2019, Calder and Brooklyn Rumford of West Chester, PA. She is survived by a sister-in-law, Arline Becker of Decorah, IA and many niece and nephews. 

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Frank on Jan. 6, 2004; sisters Helen Loftus, Gladys Innes and Kathryn Cole; and brothers Richard Becker and Dr. R.J. Becker.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to St. Francis de Sales Church or Ossian Senior Hospice.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 29, 2019, at 11:30am at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian, Iowa. The Rev. Robert Gross will be the celebrant.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 29, 2019, from 9:30-11:30am before mass time at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian, Iowa.

Inurnment will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2019, at 3pm at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery, Ossian, Iowa.

Condolences may be left with: www.graufuneralhomes.com.

Schmitz -Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ossian, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.

Carol Kuennen

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at the St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas, Iowa, 10:30 a.m. Interment was in the St. Luke Cemetery, St. Lucas, IA.

 Carol Ann Kuennen, age 67, of St. Lucas, IA, passed away on Monday, October 21, 2019 at her home with her family by her side.  

     Carol was born April 3, 1952 in New Hampton, IA to John and Lucile (Hageman) Kruse. Carol attended elementary and middle school at St. Mary’s Catholic School and Turkey Valley for high school. After graduating from high school, Carol attended NICC for Interior Design and shortly after began working in Rochester, MN. On November 20, 1971, Carol married Martin Kuennen at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waucoma, IA. Martin and Carol farmed for over 40 years outside of St. Lucas, IA; milking cows, raising pigs, growing corn, beans and hay. Carol also worked at the Town House Café for 25 years known for baking fresh cinnamon rolls, pies and desserts. Carol learned so much from Bernice Hauer during her time at the Town House.  Carol then worked at the North Fayette Schools in the kitchen making delicious meals for the students for over ten years. In addition, to working at school, Carol also enjoyed making pizzas for the Pizza Palace for about five years.  Carol enjoyed gardening, flowers, sewing, quilting, spending time with her grandchildren, playing cards and making homemade goodies for everyone she knew. Carol was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church.

     Survivors include; her husband Martin.  Three daughters:  Lisa (Scott) Hagen of Oregon, WI; Lois (Chris) Kellett of Muscatine, IA and Sharon Kuennen of Decorah, IA.  Also survived are seven grandchildren: Megan Frazer, Josh Frazer, Brandon Frazer, Callie Kellett, Christian Kellett, Kaelyn Hagen and Nathan Hagen. Mother: Lucile Kruse.  

     She was preceded in death by her father: John Kruse.  Father and mother-in-law: Frank and Elizabeth (Meyer) Kuennen.  

Mary Steffens

Mary Steffens, 91, of Clermont, Iowa passed away peacefully at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, Iowa where she had been on hospice care since August 28, 2019. Mary was born in Story City, Iowa, on May 10, 1928, to Otto and Agnes (Valen) Christensen. Mary began her education in a rural school near Story City. When she was almost 13, the family moved to a farm near Randalia. Mary graduated from Randalia high school in 1946 where she had many wonderful memories and friends. After graduation Mary worked in Waterloo as a clerk at the "Three Sisters" dress shop. She then worked as a telephone operator in Waterloo and later West Union. It was in the West Union telephone office where she first saw Reuben when he came in to make a call. Soon after that, they got together at a dance at the Oelwein Coliseum.

Reuben and Mary were wed on August 1, 1948 at the St Paul Lutheran Church, Postville, Iowa. They lived briefly in West Union before moving to the farm they would live on for the next 35 years. 

Reuben and Mary were proud owners of Reu-Mar Registered Holstein Farm just west of Clermont. They raised four children there: Brenda, Alan, Kevin and Karen. Alan took over the farms in 1983, and Reuben and Mary moved to their newly built home in Clermont. 

Mary was a wonderful homemaker and cook. She was also very involved with helping on the farm, especially with the process of registering the calves. Throughout her life she was a great encourager to her children in their activities such as 4H and school. Mary will always be remembered for her warm and welcoming demeanor; she truly loved visiting with friends and family. She cheerfully welcomed family for Christmas and other events as long as she was able. Being with family was always one of Mary's greatest joys. 

Mary was a longtime member of West Clermont Lutheran Church. Mary's faith was always important to her. She served her church community as a Sunday school teacher, Stewardship chair, Circle chair and she was always bringing food and baked goods for events at the church. She was a member of the Clermont Legion Auxiliary and helped at the Fayette County Fair during Reuben's tenure as Fair Board President. Mary was also a member of the Town and Country Club. She was also a wonderful baker; her family remembers her homemade bread, cinnamon rolls, cookies and bars. She loved animals, especially dogs, and enjoyed flowers and watching birds. Mary and Reuben were also avid dancers for many years, after all, that's what brought them together! For many of their retirement years, Reuben and Mary enjoyed spending time in Texas where Reuben could fish and Mary could further develop her love of crafts and painting watercolors. They made many good friends during those retirement years in Texas and continued to stay connected with them. They also enjoyed visiting with friends that Reuben had made during his time in the Army.

Mary is survived by her husband of seventy-one years, Reuben; her children, Brenda (Mark) Steffens Johnson, Alan (Brenda) Steffens and their children, Aaron, Andrea (Brad) Sayles and Aric (Wendy); Kevin (Marilyn) Steffens and son, Jonathon (Krista and Karen (Marc) Vandegrift and their children, Alison and Matt; nine great -grandchildren; brother, Roger Christensen; sister, Ruth Anne Crowe; brother-in-law, Lester Steffens; and best childhood friend, Mary Lou Sherwood.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Anges Christensen; half sister, Marjorie Wilson; sister, Naomi Stewart; sisters-in-law, Edna Steffens, Anita Parsons, Leona Steffens and Gerry Steffens; and brothers-in-law, Richard Crowe, Delmar Stewart, Clyde Wilson, Erbie Steffens and Jack Parsons..

Visitation was held from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm on Friday, October 25, 2019 at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa. There will also be a short visitation before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Service were held at 10:30 am on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Ginny Olson and Rev. Phillip Olson as the Officiants.

Burial followed at Gods Acres in Clermont, Iowa.

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

Marie Schaufenbuel

Services were held on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Lucas’s Catholic Church, St. Lucas, IA for Marie Schaufenbuel with interment in the St. Luke Cemetery, St. Lucas, Iowa.

Marie Schaufenbuel, age 96, of Sumner, IA, formerly of St. Lucas, IA, passed away on Friday, October 18, 2019 at Community Memorial Hospital in Sumner, IA. 

     Marie Serena (Stammeyer) Schaufenbuel was born on May 8, 1923 the daughter of Peter and Magdelena (Klemmer) Stammeyer on a farm near St. Lucas, IA.  She attended St. Luke’s Catholic School through eighth grade.  Marie worked with her family on the farm for a few years before working in LaCrosse at a care center.  She married William Schaufenbuel on September 13, 1943 and together they had thirteen children.  They farmed near Waucoma and also owned and operated Your Choice Beef in West Union until she retired.  Marie enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, playing cards, baking, was an avid reader and loved playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and church choir.

     Marie is survived by her children: Bill (Joyce) Shaufenbuel, Sumner, IA; Wayne (friend Tina) Schaufenbuel, Newport, NC; Ivan (Mary) Schaufenbuel, Windon, MN; Don Schaufenbuel, Cresco,IA; Dean (Ann) Schaufenbuel, St. Lucas, IA; Joe (Lynn) Schaufenbuel, Stevens Point, WI; Carroll (Ann) Schaufenbuel, St. Lucas, IA; Keith (Rhonda) Schaufenbuel, St. Lucas, IA; Inez (Ed) Kruse, Cresco, IA and Alice (Michael) Hackman, Waucoma, IA.  Son-in-law: Phil DiPaolo, Poplar Grove, IL.  Grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren.  Brothers: Leander Stammeyer, Sumner, IA; Frank Stammeyer, Oelwein, IA; Joseph Stammeyer, Waukon, IA and David (Jackie) Stammeyer, Quincy, IL.  Sister: Anita Herold, Fort Atkinson, IA.  Sisters-in-law: Julie Tallman, Decorah, IA and Cindy Stammeyer, Cedar Rapids, IA along with many nieces and nephews.  

     She was preceded in death by her husband William.  Children: John and Thomas in infancy and Lois DiPaolo.  Grandson: Todd. Daughter-in-law: (Janice Vrba) Schaufenbuel. Parents: Peter and Magdelena (Klemmer) Stammeyer.  Siblings: Don (Margerete) Stammeyer, Peter Stammeyer, Irene (Jim) Riffle, Florian Stammeyer, Margaret Stammeyer, Richard Stammeyer. Father and mother-in-law: Joseph and Anna Schaufenbuel.  Brothers and sisters-in-law: Leo (Elizabeth) Schaufenbuel, Henry Schaufenbuel, Anton Schaufenbuel, Frances (Nick) Kuennen, Ben (Elizabeth) Schaufenbuel, Sister Joanna of St. Rose Convent, Marian Stammeyer, John Tallman, Cletus Herold, Rose Stammeyer and Lu Stammeyer. 

Anthony Guyer

Anthony Joseph Guyer, 29, of Aplington, Iowa formerly of West Union, Iowa died Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa.

Visitation will be Thursday, October 31, 2019 from 3-8 pm at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Friday.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Friday, November 1, 2019 at Redeemer Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa with Pastor Rusty Phillips as the Officiant.

Inurnment will be at a later date at Garden of Memories, Waterloo, Iowa.

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

Anthony Guyer

Anthony Joseph Guyer, 29, of Aplington, Iowa formerly of West Union, Iowa died Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa. He was born December 21, 1989 to Daniel Guyer and Bernadine Pritchard in West Union, Iowa. Anthony graduated from North Fayette High School, West Union in 2008 and NASCAR Technical Institute in Mooresville, North Carolina. 

     Anthony was united in marriage with Kristen McCrea on January 23, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. They recently renewed their vows on October 19, 2019. He worked at Heavy Equipment Manufacturing in Grundy Center as an Assembler and Mechanic.

     Anthony also known as gear head had so many things in life that he loved and had so much passion for. First being his wife, friends and family, next being his love for working whether it being on vehicles, around the house, or working on the farm. He was a gear head and when he got off work you could tell by his clothes. Growing up he was involved with motocross, and he always had a passion to get back on a bike. He also spent a lot of time snowmobiling with his friends. Anthony was known for his contagious smile that could light up a room, his big loud trucks, changing jobs, crown royal, playing roulette at the casino, cherry chapstick the ChapStick™ brand, smelling like a million dollars, helping out others in need, cowboy boots, and his animals Bear, Lucky, and Rufus.

     Anthony is survived by his wife, Kristen Guyer of Aplington, Iowa; his parents, Bernadine (Larry) Tieskoetter of Ossian and Daniel Guyer of Arlington; brothers, Corey (Trisha Berg) Guyer and Ryan (fiancée, Victoria Welker) Guyer; paternal grandmother, Violet Guyer of Clermont; mother-in-law, Melissa (Brian) VanDeest of Dike; father-in-law Tim (Debbie) McCrea of Cedar Falls; sisters-in-law, Tiffany (Mike) Stokes of Waterloo, Jennifer (fiancé, Brian Erickson) Fouts of Waterloo, Becky (Jim) Whitt of Cedar Falls, Lindsey (Ian) Rost of Kansas City, Missouri and Corissa Frazier of Waverly.

     Anthony was preceded in death by a brother, Joshua Guyer; paternal grandfather, Douglas Guyer and Maternal grandparents, Amos and Judith Pritchard.

Visitation was Thursday, October 31, 2019 from 3-8 pm at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Friday.

Funeral Services was at 11:00 am on Friday, November 1, 2019 at Redeemer Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa with Pastor Rusty Phillips as the Officiant.

Inurnment will be at a later date at Garden of Memories, Waterloo, Iowa.

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

Paul Buckley

Former West Union, IA resident, Paul Ivan Buckley, 97, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2019 in Sioux Falls, SD.  He was born, February 9, 1922, to Robert Roy Buckley and Laura Coffman Buckley in Coon Rapids, IA.  The youngest of their 3 children, he grew up on the family farm, and graduated from Coon Rapids High School in 1941.  

Attending Iowa State University for one year he joined ROTC, and then enlisted in the Army Air Force in 1942 and received his flight training at Chico, CA, and Douglas, AZ.  Serving as the Pilot of a Mitchell B-25 in the 12^th AAF B-25 Group in the Mediterranean Theatre, 1^st Lieutenant Paul Buckley was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for ‘Extraordinary Achievement in Combat Aerial Flight’, the Air Medal w/5 Oak Leaf Cluster for ‘Heroism and Meritorious Achievement while participating in Aerial Flight’, and the E.A.M.E ribbon w/4 Stars.  In an interesting aside Flying Commercially never appealed to him after his WWII Service – he always preferred to drive to his destination.

Discharged from active military duty in July of 1945, he returned home to Iowa, and soon after enrolled at the University of Nebraska.  While there he joined the Sigma Chi Fraternity and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Public Administration.  

Following graduation, Paul joined with his cousin Ronald Kretzinger in a new business venture as distributors for Hy-Line Chickens, and with this partnership they both relocated to West Union, IA. While living in West Union, Paul was introduced to his future wife, Marilyn Moen – and they were married on October 10, 1948, in Des Moines, IA.  In the early 1950’s Paul and Ronnie amicably dissolved their business relationship and went their separate ways.  

He and Marilyn moved to California where he worked for Pillsbury Food Company, but preferring to raise their children in the Mid-west, they soon moved back to West Union. Paul joined Miracle Recreation Equipment Company, Grinnell, IA, as a sales representative, and quickly became one of the five outside original investors.  

Selling playground equipment to Municipalities and Park Districts became his life’s work and passion – and it began simply with a ‘Merry Go Round’ mounted on a trailer pulled behind his car.  He thoroughly enjoyed traveling through Iowa, N. Illinois and Indiana; convincing those he met as to why they needed this piece of equipment for all the local children.  Later, when Miracle went ‘Public’, Paul was appointed to the Board of Directors and served in that capacity for many years.

Paul loved watching/attending college football and basketball games and was a great supporter of the Universities of Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota, with those 3 collegiate flags always flying beneath the American Flag on his dock at Lake Okoboji.  

He was a Mason, a member of the El Kahir Shrine in Cedar Rapids, and the Royal Order of Jesters.  While he enjoyed fraternizing with fellow Shriners and Jesters, he also believed it a wonderful honor to support the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.  He enjoyed the game of golf immensely, and played regularly 2 to 3 times a week.  After Paul and Marilyn retired to Lake Okoboji in the early 1980’s, they welcomed friends and family into their home for the yearly Iowa Husband and Wife Golf Tournament.  

A loving father and husband, Paul will be very greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by his 4 daughters: Judy (Mike) Schram, Paula (Ken) Schaefer, Melanie (Terry) Ellis, and Heidi (Ken) Ford: 7 grandchildren: Jon Schram, Jocelyn (Colbert) DeVille, Paul Colbert, Chelsea (Ellis) Herr, James Ellis, Maddy and Jack Ford: 7 great grandchildren: Hannah, Harleigh, and Preslie Deville, Jake, Annie and Johnny Schram, and Buckley Colbert.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Marilyn, his parents Robert R. and Laura Buckley, a brother, Arnold, sister, Carolyn, a nephew, Nick Buckley and numerous cousins.

Those who so desire may make memorial donations to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children at:

https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/campaign/Shriners-Hospitals-for-Children-R/c119312

Services will be private and at a later date.

Caroline Wander

Caroline Augusta Alvina Wander, 95, of Postville, Iowa died Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at Good Samaritan Society in Postville, Iowa. Caroline Augusta Alvina Mueller, the daughter of Bill and Leida (Ahlers) Mueller, was born near Farmersburg, Iowa in Clayton County on November 13, 1923. She was baptized into the Lutheran faith, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Farmersburg. At a young age, Caroline moved with the family to a farm in the Clermont-Elgin area, where she received her education in the Pleasant Valley township schools, Fayette County, Iowa.  Caroline was confirmed at West Clermont Lutheran Church with Pastor Gunstan.

On August 20, 1946, Caroline was united in marriage with George Wander of Castalia at West Clermont Lutheran Church by Pastor A.O. Nesset. To this union two daughters where born, Suzanne and Debra. Together they farmed the family farm for thirty-seven and a half years, before moving to Postville in 1983.

Caroline would help with any project on the farm, she enjoyed traveling, playing cards, gardening, fishing and sewing. Their extended family of WWII buddies and their families, were a “special” group to her, when annual reunions were held all around the United States.

Caroline is survived by her daughter, Debra (Fred) Schneider of Elgin, Iowa; grandchildren, Darryl Merrick (Rui Song) of Fontana, California, Jason (Lori) Merrick of Princeton, Kentucky, Jennifer Merrick of Louisville, Kentucky and Derick (Erica) Soppe of Greenfield Center, New York.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George; daughter, Suzanne; brother, George Mueller; and her parents William and Leida Mueller.

Visitation was held from 3-6 pm on Thursday, October 31, 2019 at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Postville, Iowa.

Funeral Service was at 11:00 am on Friday, November 1, 2019 at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa with Rev. Jim Harbaugh as the officiant.

Burial followed at Pleasant View Cemetery in Castalia, Iowa.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Postville, Iowa. Is helping the family with arrangements.

Constance Burrett

Constance “Connie” Joyce Burrett, 93, of West Union, Iowa died Wednesday, October 30, 2019 at Palmer Lutheran in West Union, Iowa. Connie was born July 11, 1926 to George and Ingrid Halverson in Calmar, Iowa. She was baptized on August 1, 1926 and confirmed June 23, 1940 by Rev. Herman Preus, both at Calmar Lutheran Church. Connie graduated May 26, 1944 from Public School in Calmar, Iowa. She attended Luther College, then worked as a bookkeeper for J. F. Anderson Lumber Co. and later for Calmar Mfg Co.

Connie was united in marriage with Roy C. Burrett on December 18, 1946 by Rev. Charles Paulson at Calmar Lutheran Church. One daughter was born to this union, Diane. She lived in Arlington, Iowa for twenty-six years and moved to West Union in 1976. Connie was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church and a volunteer at West Union Good Samaritan Nursing Home. She enjoyed traveling to forty-nine states, Canada, Mexico and Europe. Connie’s hobbies included sewing, quilting for family and knitting.

Connie is survived by her daughter, Diane (Kenneth) Weston of Decorah, Iowa; four grandchildren, Todd (Krista) of Verona, Wisconsin, John (Marnie) of El Granada, California, Aamy (Mark) of Edgewood and Beth of Waterloo; great-grandchildren, Hannah, Madeline, Kai, Finn, Christian, Megan and Malakai.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy in 1985; parents, George and Ingrid Halverson; and one brother, Kermit.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 am to 10:30 am on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at Zion Lutheran Church in West Union, Iowa.

Funeral Service will be at 10:30 am on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at Zion Lutheran Church in West Union, Iowa with Rev. Adam Starrett as the officiant.

Burial will follow at West Union Cemetery, West Union, Iowa.

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

Bertha Olson

Bertha Jane Olson, 92, of Clermont, Iowa died Monday, November 4, 2019 at Allen Hospital, Waterloo, Iowa. She was born March 14, 1927 to Elliott and Olivia (Olson) Olson on a farm near Clermont, Iowa.

Bertha graduated from Clermont High School in 1944 as class valedictorian. She attended business college in Davenport, Iowa.

Bertha was married to C. Franklin Olson on November 3, 1946 in the West Clermont Lutheran Church. They had three sons, Craig, Rodney and Scott.  Bertha and Frank were married for nearly 56 years.  While raising their family, they lived in Waterloo and Altoona, Iowa. Bertha worked as a stay-at-home mom and held positions at AMF Bowling Company and Townsend Engineering in Des Moines. Following their retirement in 1986, they moved to Clermont. 

During their marriage, Bertha and Frank enjoyed traveling throughout the United States. Bertha loved spending time with her family, especially family vacations every year in Wisconsin.

Bertha had a strong sense of community and said of Clermont, “I want to give back something for all of the good things that have happened to me here.”  She and Frank assisted in several community development and restoration projects.  They helped with the Larrabee School renovation, the reopening of Montauk, the Clermont Opera House renovation and, thinking that Clermont needed an anchor restaurant, worked with others to keep the Valhalla open. They are past recipients of the Governor’s Volunteer Award.

Bertha is survived by her three sons, Craig (Ilean) Olson of Pella, Rodney (Maureen) Olson of West Des Moines and Scott Olson of Des Moines; four grandchildren, Neil (Cynthia) Olson of Ankeny, Heidi (Adam) Hirschy of Clive, Scott Olson of Iowa City and Katie (Andy) Collmann of Waukee; and ten great-grandchildren, Taya, Ella, Avry, Eden, Nia, Judah, Israel, Bennett, Bryn and Benjamin.

Bertha was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, her parents, three brothers, Richard, Aines and Melvin Olson and three sisters, Myra Stolle, Minnie Jungblut and Vera Mae Olson.

Visitation was held Monday, November 11, 2019 from 4-7 pm at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Tuesday.

Funeral Services were at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa.

Inurnment will be at a later date.

Relatives and friends were invited to join the family for fellowship and lunch, which was served in the church basement following the service.

We’re all sad that Bertha is gone but take great joy in the fact that you knew and loved her.

Lewis Wolfs

Lewis Joseph Wolfs, 72, of Elgin, Iowa died Tuesday, November 5, 2019 at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette, Iowa. Lewis Joseph Wolfs was born on February 6, 1947 to Leo Joseph and Irene (Nelson) Wolfs. He grew up on the family farm north of West Union, Iowa. He attended country school through 7th grade. At the closure of country school, Lewis attended and graduated from North Fayette High School in 1965. Lewis was a member of the wrestling team while in high school.

Lewis enlisted in the Army Engineers on February 13, 1966 for a three year tour of duty. He was stationed in Vietnam, Thailand, and Fort Benning, Georgia. Lewis’ rank at the time of discharge was Specialist 5. Following his discharge he attended and graduated from the welding tech program at Northeast Iowa Technical School in Calmar, Iowa.

Lewis worked as a carpenter for several years. He then worked in several manufacturing plants as a welder until his retirement.

Lewis married Karla Olson on March 25, 1972. They bought and moved to an acreage southeast of Elgin, Iowa in November 1972. Lewis and Karla have one son, Luke Joseph Wolfs born on March 20, 1978. The family moved to Illinois in 1986 for three years. They then moved to Monona Iowa for four years. Lewis drew up plans for and built their current home on their acreage in 1995.

Lewis was an avid outdoorsman throughout his life. He enjoyed hunting, trapping, and fishing in his younger years. In later years he enjoyed horseback riding with his wife and son.

Lewis is survived by his wife, Karla Wolfs of Elgin; son, Luke Wolfs of Elgin; two grandchildren, Alex Joseph and Taylor Rae Wolfs of Elgin; two sisters, Frances (Leslie) Lauer of West Union, Iowa and Helen (John) Wingler of Abbotsford, Wisconsin, numerous nephews and niece, and grand nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one nephew, Daniel Wingler.

Celebration of Life was Friday, November 8, 2019 from 4-8 pm at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Services were at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at Redeemer Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa with Pastor Rusty Phillips as the Officiant.

Interment followed at God’s Acres, Clermont, Iowa with Military Rites.

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

Roberta Joyce Pattison

Roberta Joyce Pattison, 74, of Lee's Summit, Missouri, passed away Saturday, November 2, 2019 in Kansas City, Missouri.

  Bobbie was born January 30, 1945, in Sumner, Iowa. She attended school in Sumner and graduated from Sumner High School. 

She married her high school sweetheart, Donald Pattison and they lived on a dairy farm where their first two children, Jeff and Sarah, were born. They moved to Davenport, Iowa where Donald completed Chiropractic College. Roberta helped Donald through college by working in a candy factory and raising children. While in Davenport, Bobbie gave birth to their youngest daughter, Amy.  After Donald graduated from college, they moved several times until they settled in Cedar Rapids Iowa for over 20 years where they raised their children and Bobbie helped Donald run his Chiropractic Clinic. 

After all the children were raised and married, they semi-retired to Albuquerque, New Mexico where they resided for 9 years. They decided to move back to the Midwest to be closer to family. They took over Integrity Chiropractic Practice in Lee’s Summit, which they ran together until they retired in August of 2018.

  Bobbie was preceded in death by her father Robert Harnisch; Father-in-law, Isaac Pattison, Mother-in-law, Lucille (McClain) Pattison; Niece, Rochelle Wegner and several aunts and uncles.

  Bobbie is survived by her husband Donald Duane Pattison, son Jeffrey Donald, daughters Sarah Marie (Perry) Baker, and Amy Christine (Kurt) Steinbronn, 3 grandsons, Isaac Pattison, Dustin Baker, Matthew Baker; 3 granddaughters, Isabelle Steinbronn, Alex Steinbronn, Samantha Steinbronn.

She is also survived by her Mother Joyce Harnisch; sisters Linda (Doyle) Wegner, Anne (Mahoymbah) Klobah, Christine (Russ) Steinbronn; Brother-in-law Steve (Sharon) Pattison.

  Services were Friday, November 8, 2019 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 615 SE Todd George Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO. 64063.  Visitation was at 10 a.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 11 am.

Marion "Ole" Olson

    Marion Clifford “Ole” Olson, 92, of Monona, Iowa went home to heaven Sunday,        November 3,2019 at Postville Good Samaritan Society in Postville, Iowa.

    Marion was born July 13, 1927 to Henry T. and Clara (Ostlie) Olson on the family farm near Gunder, Iowa.  He was baptized August 14, 1927 and was confirmed June 29, 1941 at Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder, Iowa. He attended Central School in the country near Elgin, Iowa.  Ole graduated in 1948 from Elgin Watchmaker’s College in Elgin, Illinois.  After graduation he apprenticed for two years at Lange’s Jewelry in Decorah, Iowa.  

     Marion was united with the “love of his life”, Fern Torsrud on January 2, 1949 at Norway Lutheran Church in St. Olaf, Iowa.  Ole and Fern moved to Clermont where Fern opened a beauty shop and Ole went to work for 1 ½ years for his brother, Milo, in his jewelry store, Olson Jewelry, in Elgin, Iowa.   In 1952 Marion and Fern moved from Clermont to Monona where they enjoyed owning and operating Olson’s Jewelry for 48 years.  Ole especially enjoyed fixing and creating family heirlooms, repairing the “impossible” and bringing smiles to people’s faces when he helped them pick out that “perfect” gift for their loved ones.

     In 1959 Marion and Fern built a home at 512 West Center St. in Monona where they raised their three children, Carol, Mary Jo and Jim.  They were blessed with 70 years of marriage.

     Ole had a strong faith and was a very active member of his church throughout his lifetime.  He sang in the church choir, held leadership positions on church committees and went to the early morning men’s bible studies.  He was a charter member of Faith Lutheran NALC.

     Ole loved being involved in the community he lived in.  He held offices and was in numerous community and athletic activities throughout his lifetime.  He sponsored and played on the Monona Businessmen Softball team in the 50’s and 60’s and bowled every Tuesday Night at Hi-Way Lanes in Postville for over 50 years. In 1989 he was inducted into the Postville Bowling Association “Hall of Fame. “ Offices Marion held were President of Tri-City Golf Course, President of the Postville Bowling Association, President of the Monona Commercial and Kiwanis Clubs and being a Director of the State Jeweler’s Association. 

     Ole and Fern treasured the times they were honored to be the 2000 Germanfest Senior Citizen King and Queen and the 2018 Monona Hay Days King and Queen. 

    Family and friends were very important to Ole.  He loved spending time with them fishing on the Mississippi and in Canada, golfing, bowling, dancing, playing cards and games, traveling (especially Norway and Alaska), attending children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren activities, grilling, making lefse, riding his motorbike, waterskiing, watching and cheering for the Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes, enjoying conversation over a good cup of coffee and laughing at good jokes and stories (especially Ole and Lena). 

   The family is eternally grateful for the love and outstanding care and concern they received from their Faith Lutheran Church family in Monona, IA, Garden View Place in Monona, IA, Good Samaritan Society in Postville, IA and the St. Croix Hospice.

Cherishing the “sparkle” in his eyes and his hearty laugh and smile are his wife of 70 years, Fern, daughter and son-in-law , Carol and Jeff Akey of Hiawatha, IA, daughter and son-in-law Mary Jo and Larry Moore of Postville, IA,  son and daughter-in-law Jim and Darla Olson of Chanhassen, MN; ten grandchildren Amber (Layne) Stark of Cedar Rapids, IA, Ryan (Dani) Allan of Ames, IA, Eric (Kelsey) Allan of Des Moines, IA, Jacob (Lindsey) Moore of Ames, IA, Andy (Emily) Moore of Waukon, IA, Mike (Beth) Moore of West Des Moines, IA, Matthew (Beca) Moore of Cedar Rapids, IA, Nicholas (Kristina) Olson of Chanhassen, MN, Anna (Brian) Gradwohl of Ann Arbor, MI, Spencer (Hannah) Olson of Madison, WI; sixteen great-grandchildren, Aria and Thea Stark, Rubi, Wesley and Brady Allan, Gemma Allan, Aubrey, Elise, Charlotte, Jackson, Maxwell, Abigail, Gabriel and Lucia Moore, Micah Olson and Everett Gradwohl; sisters-in-laws Jan Olson, Belva Olson and Donna Torsrud and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

     Marion was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Henry and Clara Olson, brothers, Hiram, Gerald, Milo, Don and sister, Clarine (Lloyd) Schutte and many friends and relatives. 

Visitation was held at the Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, IA on Monday, Nov. 11, 2019 from 4 to 7 p.m. and one hour prior to the memorial service on Tuesday at the church.  

The memorial service was held Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Monona, IA. 

Burial followed in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery, Monona, Iowa.

Leonard – Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Monona, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.

Jacqueline Cody

Jacqueline Joy (Erickson, Moon) Cody, 84, of West Union, IA left her earthly home Nov. 14, 2019 at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in West Union after a brief illness.  

Services are 11 a.m., Sat. Nov. 23, 2019 at First Baptist Church in Elgin, IA with visitation an hour prior to the service. Internment is 1 p.m., Mon. Nov. 25 at Nevada Municipal Cemetery in Nevada, IA. 

Survivors include her husband, Bill of West Union; son, Jeff (Danielle) Moon of Davenport, IA; daughter, Stephanie (Brian) Neuhaus of White Bear Lake, MN; step son, Jeff (Cindy) Cody of Sheldon, IA; brother, Jan (Rayleen) Erickson of Princeton, IA; sister, Janice (Dale) Mudd of Cedar Rapids; 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by brothers, Jim Erickson and Jerry (Mia) Erickson.  

Jackie the daughter of Ruth (Rux) and Ernest Erickson, was born on June 4,1935 in Thief River Falls, MN. She graduated from Newton (IA) High School in 1953 and attended North Central Bible College in Minneapolis. Married Harry Moon in 1957 in Newton, IA. She moved to Ohio and New Jersey and back to Iowa after a divorce. She met and married Bill in 1994. Jackie was a devoted servant to God through Gideons, Awanas, Via de Cristo, church secretary, many Sunday school classes, and bible studies. She was most proud of co-founding Lutheran Singles Again in Cedar Rapids in 1987. She had many passions including genealogy, quilting, angels, piano, reading and writing letters. She enjoyed sharing her knowledge of God and anticipated dancing with him in Heaven.

Memorials may be given to First Baptist Church of Elgin, IA. Online condolences can be sent to www.neuhausfuneralservice.com

Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service is assisting the family.

Robert Scott

Robert John Scott was born to Marshall and Elizabeth (Campion) Scott on February 20, 1935 in Rochester, Minnesota.  He grew up in Chatfield, Minnesota where he attended school, worked his family farm, was involved in athletics and choral music, and graduated in 1953.  Bob joined the angels on November 12, 2019 surrounded by his children and loving wife after a lengthy illness.  

On June 6, 1959 he married the love of his life Betty Meyer in Austin, Minnesota.  They just celebrated their 60 year wedding anniversary.  To this wonderful union five children were born, Dan (Jennifer), Kelly (Mary), Jim (Angie), Julie (Marty Soat) and Kristyn (Barry Kell), fourteen grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

Bob joined the Army in 1954, served in Germany from 1955-56 and was in the Army Reserve in 1956-57.  He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 15 in West Union.  He was also a member of the Holy Name Parish where he served as a lector and usher for many years.  Bob was a member of the Lions Club since 1971, serving on the Board of Directors and President for one term.  He was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellow Award for his humanitarian services and was selected as West Union’s Citizen of the Year in 2006. Bob also enjoyed volunteering at the Fayette County Food Bank and Good Samaritan Home.

He attended the University of Minnesota from 1953-54, and after his stint in the Army, returned to the U of M for an additional year.  He then transferred to Winona State University in 1957 where he graduated with his BA in Math Education in 1960.  While at Winona State Bob was a charter member of the track team while serving as the team captain as well as the team captain for the cross country team.  After five years of teaching and coaching Bob returned to WSU to attain his MA and then did additional math graduate work with the NSF scholarship, and is a lifetime member of the NEA.

His teaching and coaching career began in Bloomington, Wisconsin and then to Watertown, Minnesota, Wausau, Wisconsin, Lansing, Iowa and finally to West Union, Iowa at North High and North Fayette.  Bob retired from teaching in 1996, but continued to coach boys and girls cross country and boys track until 2007, he continued to volunteer with track until 2018. He is a forever Hawk.  Throughout his career he coached football, basketball, track and cross country. He started a track program and helped start a football program in Bloomington, Minnesota and then started a cross country program for boys and girls at North High as well as a girls basketball program.  Coach Scott had many successes while coaching at North and North Fayette including; one state title and four runner-up titles in girls cross country, one state title and two runner-up titles in boys track, 16 individual state titles and one relay in boys track, one individual and one runner-up in state XC.  He was named the State Coach of the Year in 1975 for girls XC and State Coach of the Year in 2006 for boys track.  Bob was inducted into the Winona State University Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Iowa Track Coaches Hall of Fame in 2006. He was most recently honored with the naming of the Bob Scott Cross Country Invitational.  Bob Scott dedicated his life to education and athletics.  

Bob and Betty were foster parents for several kids, some stayed for a short time while others were there for many years.  They also hosted three Spanish students for an academic year and British students for a short time.  Bob and Betty served as chaperones for the British exchange program with the Clitheroe Royal Grammar School and the senior class trip to Chicago for many years. Bob and Betty loved to travel with family and then together, throughout the United States and Europe for its history and beauty, one of his favorites was Crazy Horse in South Dakota.  Another one of their travel highlights was meeting Queen Elizabeth at the Clitheroe Royal Grammar School’s dedication and celebration.  

Bob practiced what he preached as an avid runner, biker (he biked RABGRAI for 36 years) and an active walker; one of his highlights was qualifying and running the Boston Marathon.  He also loved playing basketball and athletics in general.  He and Betty loved to dance and did so whenever they could.  His favorite pastimes were reading, listening and playing country music, cheering for his Golden Gophers, playing cribbage and going sledding with his children and grandchildren.  Family gatherings were always great fun at the Scott household.  He will be remembered for his great hugs, kind heart and his love for his family.  

In lieu of flowers the family ask that you please make a donation to the Bob Scott Scholarship Foundation through Dollars for Scholars at North Fayette Valley or to Gunderson Palmer Hospice. The Scott family is forever grateful for the loving care Bob received through Gunderson Palmer Hospice, the doctors, nurses and all who cared for him during his illness.  

Visitation will be Sunday, November 17, 2019 from 1-5 pm with a 1:00 pm Prayer Service at Holy Name Parish Center, West Union, Iowa and one hour before Mass at the church on Monday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am on Monday, November 18, 2019 at Holy Name Catholic Church, West Union, Iowa with Rev. Joseph M. Schneider as the Celebrant.

Military Rites will follow the Mass on Monday at the Church.

Burial will be at a later date at Calvary Cemetery, Chatfield, Minnesota.

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

George Gerstenberger

George H. Gerstenberger, 86, of Hazleton, Iowa died Wednesday, November 13, 2019, at the home of his son in Holt, Missouri.

Funeral Service was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 18, 2019 at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein with Deacon Jim Patera officiating.

Visitation was from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday and for one hour before the service on Monday at the funeral home.

Rosary was at 3 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Interment was at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Hazleton, Iowa.

Graveside Military Honors by the Iowa National Guard were held.

A Memorial Fund has been established for the disabled American Veterans, U.S.O for phone cards for active duty personnel or Cedar Valley Honor Flight, P.O. Box 182, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613. Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

George Henry Gerstenberger was born June 13, 1933 on the family farm at rural Hazleton, Iowa, the son of George Phillip and Gladys Marie (Buhman) Gerstenberger.  George graduated from Hazleton High School.  

He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict in Virginia as a guided missile launcher specialist with the Nike Defense System.  

On June 22, 1957, George was united in marriage to Margaret Raye “Peggy” Robertson at St. Louis Catholic Church in Groveton, Virginia.  The couple returned to Iowa where George farmed for two years.  He then worked for Highline Construction with the I.B.E.W. Local #55 out of Des Moines, constructing electrical high lines mainly in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin, retiring in 1999.

George was a former member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hazleton, I.B.E.W. Local #55, Life Member of the American Legion and D.A.V. and was a supporter of the U.S.O.

George is survived by his 3 Sons: Phillip (Elaine) Gerstenberger of Cameron, Missouri, George “Randy” (Andrea) Gerstenberger of Holt, Missouri and Kenneth “Scott” (Sonja) Gerstenberger of Grimes; 9 Grandchildren; 6 Great Grandchildren; Sister: Mildred Jessen of Oelwein and many nieces, nephews and Cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Peggy, on April 16, 2001; daughter: Christine Fordyce on May 20, 2015; brother: Gus Gerstenberger; sister: Rose Shannon; sister-in-law: Delores Gerstenberger; and brothers-in-law: Chuck Shannon and Bruce Jessen.

Claire Heck

Claire Heck (Clara Mae Heck) died Tuesday, October 22, 2019, at 4 p.m. of natural causes at her Grand Meadows Glen apartment, Postville, Iowa.  She was 96 years young. 

Claire was born July 29, 1923 in Elgin to Florence French, and raised by her grandmother, Florence Baldwin.  Claire graduated as class Valedictorian from Elgin High School in 1940.  

After graduation, Claire received a job offer to work at the John Falb & Sons car dealership in Elgin.  Claire met Gerald (G.J.) Heck when he returned from naval duty in the South Pacific.  They married on July 12, 1947.  She and Jerry (Gerald) purchased a farm in Postville, and Claire became a full time homemaker.  She was one of the original-founding members of the West Post Project Club, served as President.  Claire was active in the Community Presbyterian Church and was circle chairman of Ladies Aide and participated on many church committees.

Jerry and Claire had a happy marriage for 62 years until Jerry died in 2009.  Throughout their years together, Claire and her husband, Jerry, had many wonderful and enduring friendships.

Claire was positive and fun loving, a true survivor and did fulfill her dreams as being a farm wife and mother made her happy.

Survived by:  two children, Candace (Candy) K Heck from Huntington Beach, CA and Jerry J (Katherine) Heck from Dubuque; granddaughter Dacia (Dan DiCarlo) Heck; Dale Lonning and great grandchildren, Alexis (Lexi) and Ava Lonning; her sister Arlene, her brother Dean (Karen) French and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by:  her parents; her grandmother, her granddaughter Danielle Lonning; four brothers, Bud, Ralph, Kenneth and Dale; two sister in laws, Bernie and Orvie French and numerous nieces and nephews.

Claire’s family would like to thank the staff members at Grand Meadows for being professional, helpful, and kind and caring.

The family wishes to thank Joanne Bodley and Jolynn Schrader and families for your friendships.  Claire was uplifted by your kindness, and would say on a weekly basis how important you were to her.

Thank you Vern Cook, apartment resident.  Your ability to fix or reset electronic equipment was a great help to Claire and she valued your friendship and laughter.  

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Claire may be made to the Postville Fire Department, 121 E. Green St., Postville, Iowa 52162/ Phone (563) 864-7777 and the Community Presbyterian Church, 106 S. Reynolds St., Postville, Iowa 52162 /(563)864-3425.  www.cpcpostville.com

Celebration of Life:  Service in May, (near Mother's Day), when the roads are clear and the weather is good.  Date to be announced.

Claire will be remembered for her love of people and animals, her love of family and friends, her beautiful outfits with matching jewelry and shoes, and her love of getting letters and mail.