Minor Dix

GREENE - Minor Dix, 87, died Thursday, April 29, 2004, at his home in Greene. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 3, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Greene, with burial in Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 2, from 5-8 p.m. at Reid's Funeral Chapel, Greene. A public scripture service will be that evening at 7 p.m.

posted on 5/1/2004 by KD Walsh

Helen Johnson

Helen Johnson, 75, of Greene, died Tuesday, April 27, 2004, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

No funeral services are being planned.

The Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.

posted on 5/2/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Minor Dix

GREENE - Funeral services for Minor M. Dix, 87, of 601 Willow Drive, Greene, will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 3, 2004, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greene, with Pastor Paul Uzel officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene.

Visitation will be 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, May 2, 2004, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene, where there will be a public scripture service, followed by a service of remembrance. Visitation will continue at the church one hour before services on Monday.

Minor Malcolm Dix was born January 20, 1917, in rural Butte, Boyd County, Neb., a son of Edward S. and Iska L. (Wiard) Dix, and died Thursday, April 29, 2004, at his home in Greene.

In 1922 the Dix family moved to Butler County, settling near Bristow. Minor attended rural schools nearby, and attended the Greene High School. Following his father's death in 1930 he left school to work and support his mother and family.

Since 1936 Minor has been engaged in farming in Butler County. In 1942 he purchased his first farm. On August 24, 1947, he was united in marriage to Audrey Jean Packard at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. To this union were born five children. In 1959 they moved to their present farm in Packard.

Minor had a great love for horses. He first started farming with horses and in later years he raised Quarter Horses, sometimes up to 18 horses at a time. He also enjoyed gardening. Many will remember the strawberries he grew and sold in town. He was a 4-H leader and a member of the Farm Bureau.

He enjoyed spending his time at home with his family. When family and friends would come to visit, it would give him great pleasure. In 1996 Minor and Audrey retired and moved into their home in Greene.

He will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 56 years, Audrey, of Greene; his children: Minor (Kathy) Dix and their children: Alison, Justin (Cara) Dix, Kasey and Lucas Dix, all of Mount Vernon; Tom (Belinda) Dix and their children: Shane and Chad Vineyard, and Nickie Dix all of Waverly; Lucinda (Dennis) Echelberger and their children: Andrea and Michaela Echelberger all of Fergus Falls, Minn.; Mark (Ellyn) Dix and their daughter: Carley Dix; all of Charles City; Susan (Steve) Clausen and their children: Christopher and McKenzi of Chatham, Ill.; two sisters: Dawn Cheney and Twila (Duane) Smith, both of Greene; and a brother-in-law: Charles (Marilyn) Ray of Cohasset, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother: Kermit Dix; one sister Darlene Ray; and a brother-in-law: Paul Cheney.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Minor M. Dix Memorial Fund, to be designated for the First Presbyterian Church, in care of the family.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 North First Street, Greene 641-823-4457.

Thomas Kleckner

OSAGE - Thomas R. Kleckner, age 48, died Friday, April 30, 2004, at Mitchell County Regional Health Center- Hospice Unit in Osage. Thomas was born June 5, 1955, in Osage, the son of Bernard and Betty (Francis) Kleckner. He attended school in Osage and graduated from Osage Community High School. Thomas worked in Texas for six years, and then he moved back to Iowa where he worked construction throughout the area.

He was united in marriage to Renee Sherwood in 1987, in Las Vegas, Nev. To this union one son, Dylan, was born. The couple later divorced. For the past three years he had worked for Mastec, Inc. out of Hugo, Minn.

He enjoyed fishing, golf, and spending time with his family and friends.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 6, 2004, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage with Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday May 5, 2004 at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage with a scripture service at 7:00 p.m. Private inurnment will be in St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery in New Haven.

Living family members include his mother, Betty Kleckner of Osage; a son, Dylan Kleckner of La Porte City; two sisters: Diane (Gary) Krebsbach of Osage and Carol Kleckner of Osage; three brothers: Duane (Maureen) Kleckner of Huntington Beach, Calif., Larry (Diane) Kleckner of Audubon and Richard (Mavis) Kleckner of Huntington Beach, Calif.; as well as several nieces and nephews

He was preceded in death by his father, Bernard Kleckner in 1992

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, (641) 732-3706. is in charge of the arrangements

Roger J. Fullerton

ROCKFORD -  301 West Main, Rockford, died Saturday evening, May 1, 2004, at his home.

Funeral Services are planned for 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 5, 2004, at the First Untied Methodist Church, 21 3rd St. NW, Rockford. Visitation will be from 3:00 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Fullerton Schumburg Funeral Home, 302 West Main, Rockford. A Masonic funeral rite will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home and is open to the public. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Rockford with the Walker-Graper Post of the American Legion and the North Iowa detachment of the Marine Corps League conducting full military rites.

The Fullerton Schumburg Funeral Home, 302 West Main, Rockford, (641) 756-3311, is in charge of the arrangements.

Posted on 5/4/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Rosalie Bucklen

MARBLE ROCK - A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life for Rosalie Landgren Bucklen, 90, of Long Beach, Calif., formerly of Marble Rock will be held, Saturday, May 8, 2004, at the United Methodist Church in Marble Rock with Pastor Kenneth Kent officiating. Private Inurnment Services will be held prior to the Memorial Service at Hillside Cemetery in Marble Rock.

Born Phyllis Rosalie Doray Landgren on the family farm in Lindsborg, Kan., on October 22, 1913, the third of five children of Oscar Valfrid and Hilma Sofia (Larson) Landgren, and died Tuesday, March 9, 2004, in Long Beach, Calif.

She graduated from Lindsborg High School and studied at the Bethany Lutheran Church Swedish School. In 1939 she moved with her sister Aileen to Los Angeles, Calif., where, until her marriage, was a private secretary to the owner of Angeles Sanitary Can Company. She was married to Kenneth Cragin Bucklen in Los Angeles on May 22, 1946. Rosalie and Kenneth resided during the winter months in Long Beach, Calif., where they owned and operated Atlantic Avenue Hardware for 41 years.

In the spring, summer, and fall they were busy farming West of Marble Rock. Rosalie was active in the Methodist Church and the Marble Rock Community. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Marble Rock Area Betterment Council, and a founder and board member of the Marble Rock Historical Society. She was involved in numerous community beautification projects over the years.

After the death of Kenneth in 1982, she made her retirement home in Long Beach, and traveled extensively throughout the world. She took great pleasure in a strong network of family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and her brother, Marvin Landgren of Lindsborg.

Living family members include her sisters: Eunice Anderson of Lindsborg, Aileen Broadway of Long Beach, Calif.; her brother: Elton Landgren of Anaheim, Calif.; and her son Willard Kraig Bucklen, who is residing in Greensboro, N.C.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Rosalie Bucklen Memorial Fund designated for community projects in care of the family.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 423 Bradford Street, Marble Rock.

Posted on 5/5/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Berneice Hill

QUINCY, Illinois - Bea Martin of Port Charles, Charles City, received notice of the death of her twin sister, Berneice Hill of Quincy, Ill. on May 5, 2004. She was 91

Posted on 5/7/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Pauline Klaus

Pauline Klaus, 96, a resident of 300 Blunt Street, Charles City, died Wednesday, May 5, 2004, at her residence.

Funeral services for Pauline Klaus will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 10, at Trinity United Methodist Church. The Rev. Paul Wilcox and Rev. Gayle Wilcox, pastors, will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 9. Visitation will continue Monday at the church an hour prior to the service.

Pauline J. (Watson) Klaus was born October 28, 1907, at Aldrich, Mo., the daughter of Houston and Rhoda (Welsh) Watson. Pauline attended high school in Morrisville, Mo., and then attended Southwest Missouri State Teacher's College where she received her B.S. in Education in 1930. She went on to receive her Masterâs degree in Education from the University of Iowa in 1935. Pauline was united in marriage to Merten J. Klaus on June 10, 1939 in Eudora, Kan. Pauline taught grades 7 thru 12 for 11 years, four of which were in Charles City. She was also the director of First Security Bank & Trust in Charles City, First State Bank in Nora Springs, and First State Bank in Riceville, as well as the director of Cedar Valley Bankshares Ltd. in Charles City. Pauline was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, the AAUW for 64 years, PEO Chapter CY where she was a past president, President of the Lincoln PTA, Vice President of the Building Commission from 1970-72 and Memorial Treasurer of Trinity United Methodist Church and was a member of the YMCA and the City Improvement Organization. Pauline enjoyed gardening, music and traveling, and time spent with her family was always important.

Pauline is survived and lovingly remembered by her sons: John M. Klaus of Mount Vernon and David A. Klaus of Washington, D.C. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Kim, Charlotte, Elizabeth, and Benjamin Klaus, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Pauline was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, seven brothers, and two sisters.

Memorials may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church or to the PEO Loan Fund.

Kenneth K. Schaa

OSAGE - Kenneth K. Schaa, age 66, of Osage, and formerly of Patterson, Calif., died Wednesday, May 5, 2004, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center Hospice Unit in Osage.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a .m. Monday, May 10, 2004, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage. Interment will be in the Osage Cemetery. Visitation is from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, May 9, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage

Mary M. Morrow

Mary M. Morrow, 53, of New Orleans, La., and formerly of Charles City, passed away Thursday, May 6, 2004. Services are pending with Sunnyside Funeral Home in Charles City.

Laydon S. Wentworth, M.D.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Laydon S. Wentworth, M.D., passed away on Wednesday, May 5, 2004. A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 8, 2004, at 10 a.m. at Messinger Pinnacle Peak Mortuary, 8555 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, Ariz.

He was born in Fredericksburg,Iowa, in 1908. Dr. Wentworth graduated from the University of Iowa's College of Medicine in 1931. He practiced general family medicine in Marble Rock until 1976. He retired to Rochester, Minn., and was a winter visitor in Carefree, Ariz., for 28 years. His memberships included: the American Academy of Family Practice, past-president of the Floyd County Medical Society and other civic activities. He was a 55-year member of the Iowa Masonic Blue Lodge, 50-year member of the Consistory and served two years in the Grand Lodge (State of Iowa). He was a member of the Boulders Golf Club in Carefree, Ariz., and a member of of the Church of the Beatitudes.

Living family members include: his wife, June; sons Alan F. (Ruth) Wentworth of Green Bay, Wisc., and Dean C. Wentworth of Marble Rock; four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Church of the Beatitudes, 555 W. Glendale Avenue, Phoenix, Ariz. 85021.

posted on 5/8/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Edna R. Ladd

Edna R. Ladd, 96, formerly of 902 Spriggs St., passed away Saturday, May 8, 2004, at the Salsbury Baptist Home, Charles City. Graveside services will be held at a later date.

Edna Rosabelle Ladd was born April 30, 1908, in Slope County, North Dakota, the daughter of Penn Matlack and Rosa Belle Ladd. She received her education in Anamosa, Iowa, and Edgemont, South Dakota, graduating from Ames High School on June 5, 1925. Following her graduation, Edna began her career at Hart Parr in Charles City on September 30, 1925, in the Stenographic Department. When Hart Parr merged into the Oliver Farm Equipment Company in 1929, she became secretary to the plant manager. She worked 49 years for Hart-Parr/Oliver/White, until retiring in 1974, without a doubt becoming the Plant's First Lady. Edna was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church. Edna's interests included sewing and traveling.

Edna was preceded in death by her parents and a sister Wilma Leone Ladd.

The Hauser Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Posted on 5/11/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Novak Milich

WARREN, Mich. - Novak Milich, 81, of Warren, Mich., died May 7, 2004, at Warren, Mich., due to complications from Alzheimer's disease.

Graveside services for Novak Milich will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday at Riverside Cemetery, Charles City. The Rev. Paul Wilcox, pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church, will officiate.

The Hauser Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Novak worked for Ford Motor Company in Sterling Heights, Mich., for 42 years. He was a member of UAW Local No. 228. He was well known for his involvement at church as well as his green thumb. During WWII, he fought with the 'Chetniks' under the command of General Draza Mihajolivic against the Nazis and Yugoslavian communists. He was wounded and captured by the Nazis.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dorothy; and three children: Danilo (Nevena), Nada (Bruce) Northey, and Danica (Terri).

Mary Lou Neuzil

FORT ATKINSON - Mary Lou Neuzil, age 69, of Waterloo, formerly of Fort Atkinson, Iowa, and the sister of John Neuzil of Charles City, died on Monday, May 10, 2004, at the Country View Nursing Home in Waterloo after a short illness.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, May 13, 2004, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John's Catholic Church in Ft. Atkinson, with burial in the St. John's Cemetery.

Visitation will be on Wednesday at the Schluter Balik Funeral Home Chekal Chapel in Ft. Atkinson from 3-8 p.m., with a rosary at 4 p.m. and a scripture service at 6:30 p.m.

Ruby E. Bratten

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. - Ruby E. Bratten, 84, of Edwardsville, Ill., and formerly of Floyd, Iowa, died Tuesday, May 11, 2004, at the Nursing Rehab Center in Edwardsville. She was the sister of Dorothy Burnett of Charles City.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 15, at Saksa Mateer Funeral Home in Edwardsville, Ill., at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Liberty Prairie Cemetery, Edwardsville, Ill

Posted on5/13/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Marie (Trettin) Weigand

ROCKFORD - Marie Catherine (Trettin) Weigand, 75, of 1125 215th St., Rockford, died Tuesday, May 11, 2004, in her home, with family and friends at her side.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Zion Lutheran Church, 805 E. Main Ave., Rockford, with Pastor Patricia Shaw officiating. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Rockford.

The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Fullerton-Schumburg Funeral Home, 302 W. Main St., in Rockford. The visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday.

Those wishing to extend memorials or expressions of sympathy may direct them to the Hand Bell Fund at Zion Lutheran Church in Rockford.

Fullerton-Schumburg Funeral Home and Cremation Service, (641) 756-3311, www.fullertonfh.com, is in charge of the arrangements.

Betty J. Brunsma

GREENE - Betty J. Brunsma, 82, of 304 North Fifth Street, Greene, died Wednesday, May 12, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City. Funeral services are pending at Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 North First Street, Greene.

Posted on 5/14/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Milton Gary

Milton "Milt" E. Gary, 67, of 212 Charles St., Charles City, died Friday, May 14, 2004, at Rochester Methodist Hospital, Rochester, Minn.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 17, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 106 Chapel Lane, Charles City, with Rev. Carl A. Ries and Rev. Stanley J. Hayek presiding. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Charles City.

The family greeted friends Sunday, May 16, at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St., Charles City. The visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Monday. Those wishing to extend memorials or an expression of sympathy may direct them to the Immaculate Conception School in Charles City.

Milton E. Gary was born September 10, 1936, in Kenedy, Texas, the son of Milton E. and Laura L. (Rogers) Gary, Sr. "Milt" as he was affectionately known by family and friends, graduated from East Waterloo class of 1954. He furthered his education attending the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. On July 21, 1956, he was united in marriage to Carolyn M. Houlahan in Waterloo. The couple moved to Charles City in 1960. Milt owned a Western Auto Store in Charles City until 1970 and later was employed as a salesman with National Chemsearch and Farner-Bocken until retiring in 1999. Milt was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus and the Elks Lodge all in Charles City.

Milt will be best remembered as kind, loving and a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His interests and leisure activities included golfing, fishing and softball.

Those grateful for having had the privilege of sharing Milt's life are his wife, Carolyn; his five children, Ann (Jack) Demro of Nashua; Mark (Ami) Gary of Fort Worth, Texas; Lisa (Todd) Forsyth of Charles City; Michael (Gina) Gary of Cedar Rapids and Matthew (Stacy) Gary of Cedar Falls; thirteen grandchildren, Chris and Carly Demro; Andrew and Luke Gary; Kelsey, Riley and Trey Forsyth; Johnna and Anna Gary; Nicholas, Madeline, Alex and Sam Gary; one brother, Laurence Gary of San Antonio, Texas as well other family and many friends.

Milt was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Stephen Gary and a son, Kim J. Gary.

Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Blunt St., Charles City, Iowa. (641) 228-4211.

Ruth L. Stewart Monroe

CEDAR RAPIDS - Ruth Lucille Stewart Monroe, 84, of Cedar Rapids and formerly of Charles CIty, died Friday, May 14, 2004, following a short illness. Services will be Tuesday, May 18, 2004, at 10 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Cedar Rapids and at 2 p.m. at First Congregational Church, Charles City, with burial in Riverside Cemetery in Charles City.

Ruth was born March 20, 1920, in Scranton, Iowa, the daughter of James Samuel and Ruby Stewart. She lived in and graduated from high school in Clarion, Iowa. She graduated from Iowa State University in 1942 with a Home Economics degree. On May 20, 1942, Ruth married Robert Monroe in Lubbock, Texas; they were stationed in San Antonio and Sabinal, Texas during World War II. In 1945, they moved to Charles City and in 1946 they opened their own business, Monroe Sporting Goods. Ruth also taught Home Economics in various Central and Eastern Iowa school districts. In 1995, Ruth and Bob moved to Cedar Rapids where they resided at Crystal Estates.

Ruth was very active in community and church activities, often volunteering her time and talents. She was recognized as Charles City's "Woman of the Year" for her commitment to community, volunteer and service activities. Ruth was a member of PEO, Eastern Star, AAUW, First Congregational (Charles City) and First Presbyterian (Cedar Rapids) fellowships and groups and volunteered at St. Luke's Hospital and First Presbyterian Church in Cedar Rapids. Her interests and talents included cooking, sewing, interior design, entertaining, travel, reading, music, bridge, the outdoors and sporting events; she especially enjoyed the Chicago Cubs, the Iowa Hawkeyes, and family-related softball and baseball games.

Ruth's greatest commitment and interest was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who was always "ready and willing" for family activities and get-togethers. Her grandchildren were fortunate to spend special summer vacations with Grandma in Charles City, enjoying canoeing trips on the Cedar River, bicycling, swimming and special activities. She was a blessing to all who knew her; loved dearly by her family and friends and will be greatly missed. Ruth will be remembered by her children and grandchildren for the individual afghans she knit for each of them. Yet her greatest legacy to her family was her life as a role model and teacher of character and life's lessons.

Survivors include her husband of almost 62 years, Robert G. Monroe; two sons, professor James R. (Louise) Monroe of Des Moines and John C. (Cindy) Monroe of Cedar Rapids; a daughter, Linda (Roger) Hoel of Coralville; nine grandchildren, Deborah (Jim) Dreusicke and Sarah (Mike) Heenan of Coralville, Kristin (Dick) Pei of Iowa City, Army Ranger Andrew (Stephanie) Monroe of Savannah, Ga., Scott Monroe of Iowa City, Jillea (Adali) Bueso, Jennifer, John and Jessica Monroe; three great-grandchildren, Marcus and Miles Pei and Lauren Dreusicke; a sister, Irene Holmes of Omaha, Neb. and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Mary Bredall.

Memorials may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church Food Bank or Thrift Shop (Cedar Rapids) or the First Congregational Church (Charles City).

Posted on4/18/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Florence 'Toodie' Daughenbaugh

Florence 'Toodie' Daughenbaugh, 88, a former resident of 900 Monroe Street, Floyd, died Friday, May 14, 2004, at the Bartels Home in Waverly.

Funeral services for Florence Toodie Daughenbaugh will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 19, at the Gospel Lighthouse in Floyd. Pastor Paul Phillips will officiate. Burial will be at a later date in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

The family will greet friends at the Gospel Lighthouse in Floyd from noon until service time on Wednesday.

Florence Luella Green Daughenbaugh was born April 8, 1916, in Charles City, the daughter of William L. and Margaret Edith (Bovia) Green. She attended school in Charles City. On December 10, 1938, she was united in marriage with Glen Daughenbaugh. They resided for several years in Charles City and then moved to Leech Lake in Minn., where they owned and operated a resort. In the late 1960s they moved to Floyd. Toodie was employed at J.C. Penneys in Charles City for fourteen years and upon retirement volunteered at the Treasure Chest. Toodie was a member of the Gospel Lighthouse, and a former member of the Ladies of the Moose. She loved singing and had been a member of the Sweet Adelines. Her hobbies included painting, crocheting, baking, and bird watching. Toodie's appreciation of nature was seen in her desire to take long walks in the woods.

Living family members include a sister, Ruth Dickhoff of Charles City, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Glen in 1994; three brothers, Emmit, Cliff and Jim Green; and two sisters, Genevieve Bixby and Vivian Boyle.

The Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.

Mary M. Morrow

Memorial Services will be held Thursday, May 20, 2004, at 2:00 p.m., at Sunnyside Chapel Funeral Home, Charles City. There will be no visitation. Inurnment will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens immediately after the service.

Mary was born in Spirit Lake on August 11, 1950, to Ernest and Aldyth (Bieter) Morrow. She attended school at Colwell, until the consolidation of Colwell with Charles City. Mary graduated in 1968 from Charles City High School, and then attended college at the University of Iowa, in Iowa City.

Mary was united in marriage to Bob Rhoads; and to this union a son, Jason, was born. She finished her nursing education and received her degree at the Mercy School of Nursing in Des Moines, where she also worked for several years. Mary was sent to work in Arizona, New Mexico, Florida and Louisiana and the Charity Hospital in New Orleans. Mary lived the last several months in "Volunteers of America Living Facility" in New Orleans after having been diagnosed with diabetes and complications resulting from it. Mary passed away on May 6, 2004.

Mary's greatest joy was her son, family and the thousands she helped during her nursing career.

Survivors include her son, Jason (Ann) Rhoads and two grandchildren, Ellen and Garrett of Hanscom AFB, Mass.; her mother and step-father, Aldyth and Keith Darrow of Waterloo; three sisters, Barb Baringer of Indianola, Linda (Kerry) Johnson of Martinsdale, and Dot Morrow (Jamie Henderson) of Des Moines; two brothers, Richard Morrow of East Helena, Mont., Mark Morrow of Helena, Mont.; seven nieces and nephews, one great-niece and great-nephew, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends she touched along her journey.

Sunnyside Funeral Home in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.

Ruth Bertha Duncan

Ruth Bertha Duncan , age 73, of West Concord, Minn., died Sunday, May 16, 2004, at Fairview Nursing Home.

Visitation will be held at West Concord Funeral Chapel, West Concord, Minn., Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. and on Thursday at Hegre Lutheran Church from 1-2 p.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 20, at 2:00 p.m. at Hegre Lutheran Church in West Concord. Rev. Keith Homstad will be officiating. Burial will be in the Hegre Cemetery in West Concord. Memorials are preferred to West Concord Fire & Rescue.

She was born December 3, 1930, in Jericho, Iowa, the daughter of Edward and Anna (Otteson) Gordon. Ruth graduated from New Hampton High School. Following graduation she worked as a telephone operator for several years. She married Charles Duncan on January 16, 1965. In 1970, she and her husband moved to Minnesota and bought the Gamble's Store in West Concord, where she worked for many years until her retirement.

Ruth enjoyed tatting and needlework. She was active in her church, the legion auxiliary, and Study Club. She loved taking care of her grandchildren.

Ruth is survived by daughters JoAnn and Duane Kay of Charles City, Linda and Tom Keller of Dodge Center, Minn., Janet and Garth Asprey of Dodge Center, Minn., her step-son Richard Duncan of Glendale, Ariz., her grandchildren Philip, Kari, Scott, Katie, Karen and Charles, her siblings John Gordon, Edward Gordon, Stella Alexander, Charlene Cutsforth, James Gordon and Merle Gordon, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her sister Thelma Wignall

Posted on 5/18/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Anna A. Britt

Anna A. Britt, 93, formerly of 207 S. Iowa St., Charles City, died Wednesday evening, May 18, 2004, at the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St. in Charles City, with Dennis Brock officiating. Interment will take place in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to her service on Saturday afternoon at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home in Charles City.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to extend a memorial in honor of Anna, may direct them to the Israel Family Hospice Home, 400 South Dakota St., Ames, Iowa 50014.

The Fullerton Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 641-228-4211, www.fullertonfh.com, is in charge of the arrangements.

Luman L. Steer

GREENE - Funeral services for Luman L. Steer, 80, of Greene, will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 22, 2004, at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Vilmar, rural Greene. Burial will be in the North Vilmar Cemetery with military rites conducted by Tack Barnett Post 268 American Legion of Greene.

Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Friday, May 21, 2004, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene, and will continue at the church on Saturday one hour before services.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 North First Street, Greene, 641-823-4457.

Posted on 5/21/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Anna Annetta (Reit) Britt

Anna Annetta (Reit) Britt, 93, formerly of 207 S. Iowa St., Charles City, died Tuesday evening, May 18, 2004, at the Israel Hospice Home in Ames, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 22, 2004, at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home, 401 Blunt St. Charles City, with Dennis Brock presiding of the Congregation of Jehova's Witnesses of Charles City. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home on Saturday. In lieu of flowers those wishing to extend memorials to honor Anna, may direct them to the Israel Hospice Home, 400 South Dakota St., Ames, IA 50014.

Anna Annetta (Reit) Britt the daughter of Berend 'Ben' and Lida (Wiener) Reit was born January 16, 1911 in Butler County, Dumont, Iowa. She received her early education at rural schools in Franklin County, near Geneva, Iowa. Anna attended schools in Ames, New Hampton and went to seventh and eighth grades at McKinley School in Charles City. She graduated from the Charles City High School in 1930. Anna furthered her education by taking a course in Linotype at Midland Linotype School in Charles City under the direction of Rhinismith and graduated the summer of 1930. In March of 1931, Anna took a job at the Morning Sun News Herald in Morning Sun, Iowa, and was employed for two years until the depression forced the reduction of help at the News-Herald. She then worked at the Dr. Salsbury Laboratories in Charles City until her marriage to Sylvester Britt on December 1, 1933. Anna and Sylvester were united in marriage for almost fifty years. Sylvester died on October 7, 1983.

The couple farmed near Ionia for many years, retiring in 1973. They moved to Charles City and made their home at 207 S. Iowa St. Anna lived in Muscatine, Iowa, from 1990 to 1994, returned to Charles City, before moving to Ames, Iowa, on November 30, 1998, and made her home with her son, Melvin and his wife, Betty.

Anna is survived by one son, Melvin (Betty) Britt of Ames, Iowa; eight grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; a sister, Laura Ortman of Denver, Colo.; two daughters-in-law, Betty Britt of Modesto, Calif. and Mary Ann Britt of Muscatine, Iowa.

Anna was preceded in death by her husband; parents; grandparents; two sons, Richard and Donald Britt; two sisters, Pearl Fredricks and Lucille McKenzie; two brothers, Klas and Clifford Reit and a great grandson.

The Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Charles City

Gordon 'Gordie' Schmidt

Gordon 'Gordie' Schmidt, 81, of Charles City, died Thursday, May 20, 2004, at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Memorial services for Gordie Schmidt will be held at a later date.

Living family members include a daughter, Sharon (Bill) Bledsoe of Charles City; three grandchildren, Suzanne Banks, Gwen Niska and Jane Kelly; and seven great grandchildren.

The Hauser Funeral Home, www.hauserfh.com, in Charles City is in charge of arrangements.

Posted on 5/22/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Harold B. Simerson

BOONE - Harold B. Simerson, age 84, of Boone died on Thursday, May 20, 2004, at the Evangelical Free Church Home of Boone from cancer.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 25, at the Schroeder-Walter Funeral Home, 5th and Story streets in Boone, with Rev. Jessica Johnston officiating.

Visitation will be held today, May 24, at the Schroeder-Walter Funeral Home, 5th and Story streets of Boone from 1-9 p.m. Family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home this evening from 6 - 8 p.m., then visitation will continue on Tuesday, May 25, at the funeral home from 8:00 a.m. to the time of service at 10:30 a.m.

Burial will be in the Linwood Park Cemetery of Boone, with full Military Honors conducted at the graveside by the Boone Veterans Council.

Mr. Simerson was born on July 3, 1919, in Nashua to Carl Austin and Gertrude Marie (Fisher) Simerson. He graduated from Nashua High School in 1937.

Mr. Simerson married Marjorie F. Burkhart on September 14, 1943, in Los Angeles, Calif.

He served in the U.S. Army from October 7, 1941, to October 14, 1945. After the military, he started working at the Oliver Tractor Plant in Charles City for 3-4 years. He then started working for Wood Brothers in Des Moines as a machine operator, then worked for Dearborn Machinery Company in Des Moines making corn pickers and combines. He moved to Boone in the later 50's from Des Moines, where he worked for Wilson Transfer and Storage in Boone for four years. He then began a career Fareway Stores for 29 years. He retired on January 1, 1985.

He was a member of the VFW of Boone; past member of the Moose Lodge of Boone; and a member of numerous bowling leagues. He enjoyed golfing, bowling and walking.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his five sisters: Ethel, Maude, Doris, Ruth and Helen; and his three brothers: Carl, Floyd and Earl.

Mr. Simerson is survived by his wife, Marjorie Simerson of Boone; son and daughter-in-law Steven and Nancy Simerson of Charles City; daughters Mary Baker and Susan Paris, both of Boone; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law Forest and Martha Simerson of Hartford; brother and sister-in-law Roger and Pat Simerson of Phoenix, Ariz.; brother Robert Simerson of Des Moines; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer Association.

The Schroeder-Walter Funeral Home, 5th and Story Streets of Boone is in charge of the arrangements, (515) 432-1922

Francis Brinkman

GREENE - Francis Brinkman, 83, of 310 Greene Street, Greene, died Thursday, May 20, 2004, at North Iowa Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., today, Monday, May 24, 2004, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene with Pastor Gary Hatcher officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene where there will be military rites conducted by Tack Barnett Post 268 American Legion of Greene.

Visitation was from 3-7 p.m., Sunday, May 23, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene where there was a public Scripture Service at 3:15 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church today one hour before services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 North First, Greene, (641) 823-4457.

Elsie Ruth Franzen

NEW HAMPTON - Elsie Ruth Franzen, 92, of New Hampton, died Wednesday, May 19, 2004, at her home.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m., today, Monday, May 24, at the Congregational United Church of Christ, New Hampton, with Pastor Mary Hatch officiating. Jerry Bailey will be organist and accompany Pete and Phyllis Willadsen singing "The Old Rugged Cross" and "In The Garden". The congregational hymn will be "Rock of Ages". Burial will be in the New Hampton City Cemetery with Jim Franzen, Bob Franzen, Brett Franzen, Steve Moore, Keith Moore and Clyde Smith as casket bearers.

Visitation was Sunday, May 23, from 3 to 7 p.m., at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in New Hampton, and also one hour prior to the service at the church today.

Posted on 5/24/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Michael "Mike" Jon Dunbar

NORA SPRINGS - Michael "Mike" Jon Dunbar, 61, of Nora Springs, died Sunday, May 23, 2004, at his home.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 26, at the St. Luke Lutheran Church, 101 North Hawkeye, Nora Springs, with Reverend Ruth Hansen officiating. Burial will be in the Park Cemetery in Nora Springs. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on today, Tuesday, May 25, with a memorial service conducted by members of the Moose Lodge in Mason City at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday at the Sheckler Colonial Chapel, 114 North Hawkeye in Nora Springs. Visitation will also be one hour prior to service time on Wednesday at the church.

Michael "Mike" Jon Dunbar was born May 8, 1943, in Mason City, the son of Harry and Margaret (Wolske) Dunbar. He received his education in the Little Cedar school system, graduating from Mason City High School. In 1961, he started working as a material handler for the White Farm Implement Company in Charles City working for them for 31 years. He was united in marriage to Jean Boomgarden on January 23, 1965, in Northwood. In 1974, the family moved to Nora Springs from Mason City. After working for White Farm Implement he drove tractor truck for 5 years for Norsemen trucking in Lake Mills and for Michaelsen Trucking in Mason City. Mike also drove charter bus for Huffman Transportation Company in Mason City.

He enjoyed gardening, cooking, watching and going to car races, and visiting with his many friends; but his great love and enjoyment was spending time with his family and granddaughter.

He was a member of the Moose Lodge, Elks Lodge and Eagles Lodge all in Mason City.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Jean Dunbar of Nora Springs; three children, Steve Dunbar and his wife Donna of Nora Springs, Paul Dunbar of Nora Springs, and Nancy DeWall and her husband Wally of Dillsburg, Penn; a granddaughter, Kelli Dunbar of Nora Springs; his father-in-law, Martin Boomgarden of Mason City; twin sister, Martha Zuke and her husband Raymond of Mason City; sisters, Dixie Abben and husband Bud of Little Cedar, and Ann Bahnsen and her husband Dan of Cedar Rapids; brother-in-law, Clifford Holcomb of Oregon, Wis.; two aunts, Florence Wolske of Staceyville; and Maxine Wilke of Madison, Wis.; many nieces and nephews; as well as other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary Holcomb; and his mother-in-law; Lola Boomgarden.

Sheckler Colonial Chapel in Nora Springs is in charge of arrangements.

Robert L. Baltzell

MCCOOK, Neb. - Dr. Robert L. Baltzell (Dr. Bob), age 61, died May 15, 2004, at Community Hospital in McCook, Neb., following a two year battle with cancer.

Dr. Baltzell was born July 30, 1942, in Charles City to Dr. Winston C. Baltzell and Virginia (Hampton) Baltzell. He graduated from Charles City High School in 1960, where he was a member of the National Honor Society and received the Men's Citizenship award. He attended Grinnell College in Iowa and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1964. He graduated from the University Of Iowa College Of Dentistry in 1969. He served his family dentistry residency at the University Of Chicago Hospitals. He practiced dentistry for 34 years in New Hampshire and in Charles City and for the past 10 years in McCook.

He was united in marriage to Candice Borchers, daughter of Virgil and Eve Helgen, on December 27, 1967, at the United Methodist Church in Charles City. Candice worked as his dental assistant for 25 years.

Dr. Baltzell was active in organized dentistry, serving on the board of the Nebraska Academy of General Dentistry and as a delegate to the Nebraska Dental Association. He was a member of the Oilbelt Study Club of Nebraska and Kansas. He was a member of the United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir. He was a member of the McCook Rotary Club and the trumpet player in the McCook brass quintet. He was a past member of the Prairie Statesmen Choir. Dr. Baltzell loved music, camping, fishing, hiking, golf, canoeing, and working on the family farms. He was a pilot, and was active in scouting and was a recipient of the Eagle Scout award.

He is survived by his wife Candice; his mother, Virginia Baltzell of Leesburg, Fla.; a brother, Dr. James Baltzell and wife Karin of Chanhassen, Minn.; a sister, Nancy Walters and husband James of Iowa Falls; and his mother-in-law, Eve Garden of Charles City.

He was preceded in death by his father. He was a loving uncle to 10 nieces and nephews and daddy to his Schnauzer Hansie.

Candice will be present from 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 28, to greet friends at the Carpenter-Breland Funeral Home in McCook. Friends may sign his book at the funeral home or send condolences on-line at www.carpenterbreland.com and at www.beyondindigo.com

A memorial celebration will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 22, 2004 at the First United Methodist Church in McCook with The Reverend Dr. Jeff Thurman officiating.

Memorials may be sent to Community Health Care, Home Health and Hospice, 1301 East H. St., McCook, NE 69001.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements.

Posted on 5/26/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Ralph M. "Bud" Marsh

GREENE - Funeral services for Ralph M. "Bud" Marsh, 86, of 110 South High Street, Apt. 6, Greene, will be at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, May 28, 2004, at the United Methodist Church in Greene, with Pastor Ashok Patet officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Greene.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m., today, May 27, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene, where there will be a public scripture service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue on Friday at the church one hour before services.

Ralph "Bud" Miles Marsh was born December 28, 1917, at home in Coldwater Township, Butler County, a son of D.C. Marsh and Pearl (Whitson) Marsh, and died Tuesday, May 25, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

He spent his childhood on the family farm west of Greene. He graduated from Greene High School in 1934. After graduation, he started farming with his father. On March 6, 1938, he married Gertrude Stubbe at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Ralph sold real estate for seventeen years with Miller & Marsh Real Estate. Ralph and Gertie retired and moved into Greene in the fall of 1963. They lived at their home on the river for 40 years before moving into Valley View Apartments. Ralph and Gertie had many happy times with their family. They enjoyed spending their winters in Arizona and their many fishing trips.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Gertrude of Greene; and their children: son Bruce Marsh of Grafton, daughter Jacqueline (Galen) Lindell of Greene, son Douglas (Susan) Marsh of Greene, daughter Margery (Roger) Weichers of Winona, Minn.; 10 grandchildren: Steve Marsh, Darren (Lori) Marsh, Kelli (Mike) Hemann, Ranee (Randy) Jacobus, Jeff (Cathy) Lindell, Tina (Kurt) Graven, Dan (Sara) Marsh, Amy (John) Teeple, David Weichers, and Kim Weichers; 20 great-grandchildren: Aubrey, Abbie, Cody, Samantha, Megan, Matthew, Kendal, Ryan, Erika, Emily, Eryn, Dalton, Taylor, Carson, Paige, Claire, Lauren, Maxwell, Elli, and Anna; one sister, Ruth Paplow of Greene; three sisters-in-law, Bobbie Davis of Greene, Emma Marsh of Clarksville, June Stubbe of Aredale; and many nieces and nephews.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Marjorie; a granddaughter, Corine Lindell; and a daughter-in-law, Joanne Marsh.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the family.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 North First Street, Greene, 641-823-4457.

Posted 5/28/2004 by K.D.Walsh

Peggy Ann Hall

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa - Peggy Ann Hall, formerly of Charles City, died Monday, May 10, 2004, at Kavanaugh Hospice House in West Des Moines.

Services were held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Des Moines on Thursday, May 13, followed by interment at Avon Cemetery, Avon Lake, Iowa.

Peggy was born on August 24, 1951, in Des Moines. She was the wife of Dr. Donald Hall, and mother of Wendy Hansen (husband Mark) of Des Moines, and Tracey Call (wife Wendy) of Norwalk. Her grandchildren - Cody, Alexis and Jacob - were her greatest source of joy.

Most of her adult life was spent caring for the ill and the elderly as a nursing assistant. She was a devoted wife, mother and friend, and will be sadly missed by all whose lives were touched by her giving and selfless nature.

Condolences may be sent to her husband and family at: 1800 Watrous Ave., Apt. No. 13A, Des Moines, Iowa 50315.

Posted 5/30/2004 by K.D.Walsh