Trina Danette Peterson

Trina Danette Peterson, age 38, of Hastings, Minn, died September 2, 2011.

Trina was born July 7, 1973 in Rochester, Minn. to Greg and Kathy (Millen) Peterson. She attended Hastings High School.

The funeral aervice, officiated by the Rev. James Bzoskie will be held 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Cornerstone Bible Church, 735 East Tenth Street, Hastings, followed by interment in Lakeside Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home, 201 East Seventh Street, Hastings and at church one hour prior to the service.

Trina was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mitch and Evelyn Millen and Patricia Block.

She is survived by her children, Ashley Dohm, Annabel and Allister Norquist and their father, Steve Norquist; parents, Greg and Kathy Peterson of Clear Lake; brothers, Collin (Eriane) Peterson and Jordan Peterson of Hastings, and Jared Peterson of Inver Grove Heights, Minn.; grandfather, Richard Peterson of St. Paul Park, Minn.

Arrangements were handled by Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home, Hastings.

Robert “Bob” Charles Brand

Robert “Bob” Charles Brand, 64, of 2400 S. Shore Dr., Clear Lake, died Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, Iowa.

Funeral services were held Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church with the Rev. Diana Hoover officiating.  Burial was in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City, with military honors provided by the Clear Lake V.F.W.  Family suggests memorials to the Robert C. Brand Memorial Fund.

Bob was born Feb. 4, 1947 in Mason City, the son of Frank and Edna (Cogill) Brand.  He attended school in Rockford, Iowa.  Following high school he enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War.  He married Ginger Fisher on July 16, 1966 at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church.

After his discharge from the Army he worked for Vigortone Premix, Jo-Fran Roaster and later operated the Wagon Wheel in Clear Lake.  The last 24 years he worked in the First Credit Dept. at Schukei Chevrolet. 

Bob enjoyed playing pool, golfing and fishing.

He is survived by his wife, Ginger Brand, Clear Lake; son, Todd Brand and his fiancé, Amanda Leland and her son, Nevyn Fisher, Mason City; two granddaughters, Ashley and Britny Brand, Mason City; three great-grandchildren, Nevaeh, Naomi and Mathayus; four sisters, Wavel Lichman, Britt, Iowa, Marvel Thompson, Mason City, Sharon Jenkins, Bay City, Wis.and Karen (K.J.) Hueneman, Garner, Iowa and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Albert Welshans; four brothers, Richard, Larry, Ronald and Arthur Brand; sister, Janyce Stromley; brothers-in-law, John Lichman and Elmer Thompson; and a sister-in-law, Naomi Brand.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Cathy Lynn Mills 

Cathy Lynn Mills, age 47, of Waterloo, Neb., died Sept. 5, 2011 at home surrounded by her loving family following a heroic battle with cancer.

A memorial service for Cathy Lynn Mills was held on Friday, Sept. 9 at St. Luke United Methodist Church, Omaha, with Dr. Craig Finnestad, pastor officiating.  A memorial fund has been established in her name for Pancreatic Cancer Research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, c/o the Cathy Mills Trust.

Cat, as her family and friends knew her, was born on Sept. 26, 1963 in Sioux City, Iowa to Walter A. and Joyce (Anderson) Bielenberg.  She attended grade and middle school in S. Sioux City, Neb., and graduated from Clear Lake High School in Iowa in 1981.

Cat went on to attend Patricia Stevens Fashion and Business College in Omaha, Neb., followed by a diverse professional career in Omaha, Kansas City, Mo., and Austin, Texas.  She was forever selfless and always placed the needs of her family and friends in front of her own.  She was deeply loved by all.

Cat is survived by her husband, Edward; father, Walter; daughters, Ashley Nicole Jaton and her partner, Jason R. White, Alexis Victoria Jaton and Ella Rose Mills; son, Edward Nicholas Mills; and granddaughter, Emerson Paige White.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce.

John A. Gentleman Mortuaries, Omaha, was in charge of arrangements.

Sadie E. Deets 

Sadie E. Deets, 87, of Britt, Iowa and formerly of Clear Lake, died Friday, Sept. 2, 2011 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

A celebration of life service was held Sunday, Sept. 11, at the Summit House in Britt for friends and family.  A private inurnment will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City.

Sadie Ella Deets, the daughter of Warren and Bessie (Ashmore) Young, was born July 18, 1924 in Rose Creek, Minn.  She was united in marriage to Ward Deets on Feb. 16, 1942 in Austin, Minn.  They lived in the Charles City, Iowa area until they moved to Clear Lake in 1959.  Sadie worked for Mach III Inc. in Mason City until she retired in 1986.  She had lived at the Summit House Retirement Community in Britt for the last eight years.  She enjoyed gardening, playing cards and a good game of scrabble.

Sadie is survived by a daughter, Carolyne (Wayne) Hudson of Orinda, Calif; sons, Michael (Betsy) Deets of Garner, Iowa Douglas (Sarah) Deets of Eyota, Minn. and Jeffrey (Ellen) Deets of Rockwell, Iowa; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and 12 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ward; daughter, Sharon; and two sisters.

Cataldo Funeral Home in Britt was in charge of arrangements.

Charles “Chuck” A. Sorensen 

Charles “Chuck” A. Sorensen, 76, of 2109 Pine Tree Ct., Clear Lake, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011 at the Mercy Medical Center North Iowa, Mason City, Iowa. 

Funeral service were held Monday, Sept. 12, at Zion Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, with the Rev. Dean Hess officiating.   Burial was in Pleasant View Cemetery, Thornton, Iowa.  Family suggests memorials to the American Heart Association.

Chuck, the son of Harry and Viola (Lauster) Sorensen, was born Aug. 26, 1935 in Thornton, Iowa.  He graduated from Swaledale High School in 1953 and then attended Utilities Engineering Institute.   

Chuck married Mardelle Luick on June 12, 1955 in Thornton, Iowa.  They lived in Austin, Minn. where he was a tractor mechanic for International Harvester.  They moved to Spencer, Iowa where he was promoted to shop foreman for International Harvester, and eventually promoted into sales.   In a career move, they relocated to New Hampton, Iowa as store manager of J.I. Case and later transferred to Mason City, Iowa Case Power and Equipment, as manager, until retiring in 1990.

He enjoyed golfing, afternoon coffee with friends, car races, working in his yard, collecting toy tractors, going to antique tractor shows, traveling in their motor home, and spending winters in Arizona where he attended weekly morning prayer breakfast.  He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Clear Lake and Love of Christ Lutheran Church, Mesa, Az.

Charles is survived by his wife, Mardelle Sorensen, Clear Lake; three sons, Douglas (Deb) Sorensen, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Dennis Sorensen (friend Connie), Brooklyn Park, Minn., and David (Pattie) Sorensen, Phoenix, Az.; six grandchildren, Emily, Dane, Christian, Will, Charlene and Peter Sorensen; sister, Veryl (Richard) Hansen, Cedar Rapids, and two sisters-in-law, Phyllis Luick and Sherryl Joines. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Viola; stepmother, Dorothy; brother-in-law, Bud Luick and sister-in-law, Lorraine Jones.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Warren Earl Jacobson 

Warren Earl Jacobson, better known as “Jake”, 83, of 1310 Village Road, Clear Lake, died Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011 at Mercy Medical Center North Iowa, Mason City, Iowa.

Memorial services were held Monday, Sept. 12, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, Clear Lake, with the Rev. Diana Hoover officiating.  Family suggests memorials to the Clear Lake United Methodist Church.     

Warren was born July 2, 1928 on a farm between Thornton and Meservey, Iowa, to Leland Earl and Ruth Mae (Ulrich) Jacobson.  At the age of eight he moved to Clear Lake with his folks.  Jake graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1945.  He attended the University of Iowa for one year and then attended Coyne Electrical School in 1947.   

He married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth “Betty” Roberts, on Nov. 9, 1947 in Clear Lake.  The couple moved to Churdan, Iowa and Jake started his career as an electrician working for his uncle in Peyton, Iowa.  After a year, the Jacobsons were back in Clear Lake and Jake worked for Rice Electric, for 13 years.  They raised two sons and one daughter in their longtime home on 1st Avenue North.  In 1960, Jake started Jacobson Electric and he ran a thriving business for 32 years.  In 1992 he flicked the switch and turned the business over to his right-hand man and son, Larry.

Warren was very involved and active in his community, which included being on the Clear Lake City Council for two terms, treasurer of Clear Lake Concert Association, I.O.O.F Lodge member, Miss Iowa Pageant, Clear Lake Jaycees where he received boss of the year, Boy Scout Explorer Advisor and Eagle Scout, Clear Lake Noon Lions where he was past president and the recipient of Melvin Jones Humanitarian Award and 65 year member pin.  Jake was a long time member of the “morning coffee club.”  Warren and Betty enjoyed many years on the road in their motorhome, seeing the country and making new friends.   He was a member of the Clear Lake United Methodist Church where he served on several different committees and sang in the choir for over 60 years.

Warren is survived by his wife, Betty Jacobson, Clear Lake; three children, Larry (Sue) Jacobson, Clear Lake, Paul (Cynthia) Jacobson, Las Cruces, N.M., and Susan (Brian) Larson, Ames, Iowa; six grandchildren, Joel (Andrea) Jacobson, Julia (Darin) Glanzer, Erica (Brent) Berger, Paige (Chad) Rabon, Courtney (Charles) Lockin, and Shelby Larson; seven great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Pat Jacobson, Clear Lake.    

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, Marin; and his brother, Keith.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Marian K. Edelen 

Marian K. Edelen, age 66, of Ham Lake, Minn. (formerly Clear Lake), passed away Sept. 11, 2011.

Marian loved her Lord and loved others. She was a former nurse, Hospital Auxiliary President, Alumni /Parent Relations Director at Concordia University, St. Paul, Youth, Sunday School and pre-school teacher, parent educator, Robin’s Nest Children’s Home-Jamaica Board President and Mary Kay consultant. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. Her loving Christian heart and smile radiated from her and will live on in the hearts of all of those who knew and loved her.

Marian is survived by her husband, Charles; sons, Jeffrey (Donna) Edelen and Thomas Edelen;  daughter, Christine (Robert) Garman;  grandchildren, Dillan, Cody, Jacob, Miranda, Eden and Beau; father, Gilbert (Ardeen) Luker; brother, Ronald (Georgia) Luker; sisters, Jayne (John) Cambronne and Katherine (James) Bart; and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lydia Luker.

A funeral service will be held 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 16, at Messiah Lutheran Church, Mounds View, Minn. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday and one hour prior to the service at Messiah Lutheran. A special prayer service will be held Saturday, 11 a.m., with visitation one hour prior at Caltaldo Funeral Home, Garner, Iowa. Interment will follow at Concord Cemetery, Garner.

Memorials preferred to Messiah Lutheran Church children’s programs and Robin’s Nest Children’s Home in Jamaica.     

Miller Funeral Home, Fridley, Minn., was in charge of arrangements.

June A. Birdsell

June A. Birdsell, 88, of Clear Lake, and most recently a resident of Apple Valley Assisted Living, passed away Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011 at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City, Iowa.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 17, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church with the Rev. Diana Hoover officiating.  Interment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. Visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 16, from 5 - 7 p.m. at Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 N. 4th St., Clear Lake.

Should friends desire, memorials may be left in June’s name in care of her family.

June Arlene Klinge was born on April 27, 1923 in Manly, Iowa, the daughter of Harry P. and Sylvia M. (Daubenmeir) Klinge.  She attended Manly High School and graduated amongst the class of 1941. On April 5, 1941 June was united in marriage to Donald E. Birdsell in Hampton, Iowa. This union would be blessed with three daughters.

Following June and Donald’s marriage they moved to California where Donald worked in the ship yards.  After the war ended they returned to Mason City and in 1946 they moved to Manly where they owned and operated the “Stop and Go” Grocery Store. 

In later years June worked as a travel agent in Mason City as well as in Florida.  Traveling was one of June’s passions and she traveled extensively through Europe, Latin America, and throughout the United States.  June was also an accomplished pianist and loved gardening, bird watching, both watching and playing golf, and writing poetry.  She was also a member of the Clear Lake United Methodist Church.

Those grateful in sharing in June’s life are her three daughters, Sharon (Larry) Dixon, Linda Johnston, and Nancy Whipple, all of Mason City; seven grandchildren, Laura Bramsen and Darin Reynolds, Tracy (Michael) Waite, Jessica Johnston-Lipp, William T. (Nichole) Whipple, David (Lisa) Whipple, June (Michael) Bahnsen, and Benjamin Whipple; eight great-grandchildren, Jeramy (Peggy) Schiefelbein, Jacob (Treena) Waite, Benjamin Bramsen and Katie Mozack, Jillian Waite, William G. Whipple, Brenna Johnston, Amaya Bahnsen, Chloe Bahnsen, and Julia Whipple; six great-great-grandchildren, Alexis Schiefelbein, MaKayla Waite, MaKenna Waite, Hailey Hansen, Hayden Hansen, and Zane Schiefelbein; a brother, David (Patricia) Klinge; a brother-in-law, Donald Kofron; as well as many extended family members and friends.

June is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and three brothers, Daniel Klinge, James Klinge, and Robert Klinge.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, is handling arrangements.

Lois F. (Sieleman) Ditch 

Lois F. (Sieleman) Ditch, 86, of 354 Willowbrook Dr., Mason City, Iowa died Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011 at her home.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Holy Family Catholic Church, Mason City, with the Rev. Michael J. Schueller officiating.  Burial will be in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.  Family suggests memorials to Holy Family Catholic Church or Hospice of North Iowa.

Lois was born Sept. 24, 1924, in Hawkeye, Iowa, a daughter of Martin and Mildred (Cook) Timm.  She attended school in Fayette, Iowa and graduated from Fayette High School in 1942.  She then attended Upper Iowa University, graduating in 1944 with a two-year degree in business.  Upon her graduation she spent the next five years as secretary and office manager for Farmers Home Administration in West Union, Iowa and later in the state office in Des Moines.

She married Donald J. Sieleman on June 22, 1949 at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union.  They made their home in Iowa City, Iowa.  She transferred to the Department of Interior and was secretary to the State Geologist until the birth of her first child.  They relocated to Mason City in 1960.  After being a stay-at-home mom, Lois returned to the work force in 1970 as a paraprofessional and later secretary at Roosevelt Middle School, retiring in 1986.  Upon her husband’s retirement in 1987 they moved to Sun Lakes, Az. for three and one-half years.  They returned to Mason City Oct. 1, 1991.  Don passed away Jan. 16, 1992.

Lois and Harold Ditch were united in marriage on Nov. 1, 1997, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Mason City.  Harold Passed away Dec. 15, 2007.

Lois was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, St. Theresa Circle, Holy Family Funeral Choir, and was a volunteer for Hospice of North Iowa and Community Kitchen.  She liked to travel, read, do handiwork and dance.  Much joy and pride was derived from her family.

Survivors include her one daughter, Debra K. Johnson and husband, Jerry, Marshalltown, Iowa; two sons, Michael T. Sieleman, Mason City, and James M. Sieleman and wife, Cathy, of Bettendorf, Iowa; four granddaughters, Kate Davis (Dan), Des Moines, Iowa, Erin Johnson, Dallas, Texas, Maggie (Ethan) Conner-Ross, Philadelphia, Penn., and Emily Sieleman, San Angelo, Texas; one grandson, Jack D. Sieleman, Bettendorf, Iowa; two great-grandchildren, Daniel and Jude Davis; Des Moines, Iowa; two stepsons, Alan Ditch, Tucson, Az, Dean Ditch, Rocheport, Mo.; one stepdaughter, Karen VanBlair and her husband, Rick, Pensacola, Fla.; two step-grandsons, Jonas Ditch, Columbia, Mo., Josh VanBlair, Crestview, Fla.; two step-granddaughters, Amanda VanBlair, Orlando, Fla., and Nell Hasheider and her husband, Craig, Jackson, Mo.; sister-in-law, Laura Timm, Des Moines; sister-in-law, Beverlee (Sieleman) Drugan, El Paso, Texas; brother-in-law, Rodney Sieleman and his wife, Maxine, Des Moines.  She also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Donald J. Sieleman (Jan. 16, 1992) and Harold Ditch (Dec. 15, 2007); her parents; four brothers, Bryce, Loel, Wayne and Virgil (in infancy) Timm; sisters-in-law, Bertha Timm, Irene Finberg, Ann Sieleman, and brothers-in-law, Robert B Sieleman and George Drugan.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, was in charge of arrangements.

Walter Amos Wood Jr.

Walter Amos Wood Jr., 79, 916 Main Ave, Clear Lake, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011 at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, Iowa from complications of heart disease.  

A funeral service was held Tuesday, Sept. 20, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, Clear Lake, with the Rev. Diana Hoover officiating.  Interment was at the Clear Lake Cemetery with military honors provided by the Clear Lake V.F.W.  Memorials may be addressed to Clear Lake School Air Plane Project, E.A.A. Treasurer, 3385 Saratoga Project, Mason City, Iowa 50401, Clear Lake United Methodist Church or Hospice of North Iowa.

Walter Amos Wood Jr.  was born on the family farm south of Clear Lake and Bayside Park on June 26, 1932, the son of Walter Amos, Sr. and Alma (Crosby) Wood.  Having two older sisters, Amos was welcomed as their first son.  He attended Eden Country School through 8th grade and graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1950.  Amos served in the Army, stationed in Germany, from 1951 to 1954.  He married Rachel Zirbel on Jan. 9, 1955, at the Swaledale Methodist Church.  To this union four children were born.

Returning from Germany, Amos farmed with his parents and drove a milk truck route for the Clear Lake Creamery north of town and often picked up two 10-gallon cans of milk at a time.  He was employed as a mechanic by Jerry Dwyer at the airport, and for Phil Ong and Carl Woollums at John Deere Implement in Mason City. 

Amos’ farming career progressed when Rachel’s dad sold him his machinery and rented them land and home near Zirbel Slough. Later, Amos and Rachel moved to their own farm west of Burchinal, Iowa where they and their children set up a progressive cattle feeding system, raised cattle and buffalo and expanded their farming acreage.  After selling the farm in 1982 they moved to Clear Lake and sustained his love for farming by working on the farm alongside his son, Dan, and continued sharing his valuable knowledge for many years until his death.  It was while working at the airport that Amos became enthused about flying.  He was a licensed pilot and built two airplanes in his workshop.  Each plane held two people and was capable of flying over 200 m.p.h.

They traveled to Mesa, Az., in the winter and made many friends during the six seasons in Apache Wells RV Resort.  Their home was within one mile of Falcon Field where airplanes were a constant source of enjoyment.

Amos is survived by his wife, Rachel Wood; children, Dan and wife, Wendy (French) of Garner, Iowa, Roger of Des Moines, Iowa and Dianne Bojorquez, Clear Lake;  grandchildren, Jennifer Brown, Joslyn Wood, Jacob Wood, Austin Wood, Alex and Gracie Bojorquez, and Millie Wood; great-grandchildren, Nevaeh and Christian Brown; and siblings, Dolores Zirbel, Ellery and Donald Wood.

Amos was preceded in death by his son, Walter Amos III (Jan. 23, 2001); sister, Faith Boyd (2007); brother, Jon Roger (infant 1943); father (1987); and mother (1993).

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Joy Mae Solum

Joy Mae Solum, 78, of Mason City, Iowa died Sept. 18, 2011, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, at the Grace United Methodist Church, 200 14th Street N.W. Mason City, with Pastor Steve Hansen officiating.  Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd Street N.E. Mason City. Should friends desire, memorials may be directed to the Joy M. Solum Memorial.

Joy Mae McDougle was born May 11, 1933, the daughter of Herman and Ethel (Hackman) McDougle.  Joy attended Mason City and Osage Schools graduating from Osage High School in 1951.  She was united in marriage to Melvin Hoy in 1953.  Melvin passed away in 1958; and Joy was united in marriage to Carl Solum on April 11, 1960.  Joy was blessed with five children.

Joy worked at Libby Owens Ford Glass Co. for 20 years.  She started working at Walmart in 1994 as a greeter and retired after 16 years.  She has lived in North Iowa, Seattle, Fort Smith, Ark. and Rapid City, S.D.  Joy enjoyed vegetable and flower gardening, canning, baking and cooking.  She loved crocheting and knitting, Bingo and pets. Joy’s greatest love was spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joy was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church, Life Member V.F.W. Auxiliary, and the Senior Citizens Center.

Joy is survived by her children, Bill Solum, Westford, Mass.; Mitchell (Mona) Hoy, Mason City, Sherrie Solum, Clear Lake, Carla (Mark) Sampson, LaCrescenta, Calif., Daniel Solum and companion, Shelley Huebner, Mason City; step-children, Carol Wine and Mark Solum, both of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Zarrie, Anisa, Justina, Jordan, Tanner, Rhea, Ryan, Taylor, Nicole, Kasandra, Sarah-Jo, Tyler, Samuel, Eric, Travis, Nick, Zach, Chris, and Jamie; great-grandchildren, Evan, Ehren, Isaiah, Ty, Dylan, Carly, Aurora, and expected arrival, Mailey Joy; one brother-in-law, Dick Blunt; her best friends, Dola and Ethel; along with many nieces and nephews other relatives and friends.

Joy is preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Melvin Hoy; three brothers and two sisters.

Susanne Mary Green

Susanne Mary Green, 72, of 1200 N. 9th St. W., Clear Lake, died Monday Sept. 19, 2011 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, Iowa.

Services are pending at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake.

Blake Aaron Lobdell

Blake Aaron Lobdell, 50, of 808 7th Ave. N. Clear Lake, died suddenly Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011 at Mercy Medical Center North Iowa, Mason City, Iowa.  Blake was a caring and giving person; he continued that in death through the gift of organ/tissue donation. 

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011 at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church with the Rev. Diana Hoover officiating.  Graveside services will be at Belmond Cemetery, Belmond, Iowa.  Visitation will be Wednesday from 3 - 7 p.m. at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake and then one hour before the service at the church.  Family suggests memorials to the Blake A. Lobdell Memorial Fund to use to establish a scholarship fund.

Blake was born July 19, 1961 in Belmond, the son of Jack and Shirley (Nelson) Lobdell.  He graduated from Belmond High School in 1979. While in high school he participated in cross country and ran the mile in track where he won two conference championships.  Throughout high school and college he worked at the P&G Grocery Store where he met his future wife. Blake and Jane were married July 27, 1985 in Belmond and just recently celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary. 

He started his teaching career in the winter of 1985 at the Klemme school and in 1986 started teaching at Clear Lake High School. 

Mr. Lobdell’s students have all heard the expressions of “Pull yourself up by the bootstraps” or “Such is Life.”  Although these “Mr. Lobdellisms” might have been heard with a critical ear, the sincerity behind them was well-founded.  Early in Blake’s life, the accidental passing of his father brought hardship to a young family, prompting a high school science instructor, Mr. Wilson, to mentor young Blake and guide him to pursue a college education. With this encouragement, Blake literally worked his own way through Central College, graduating with a degree in science education.  While teaching at Klemme High School, Dwight Williamson, a friend of many students at Clear Lake, encouraged Blake to apply and accept the physics position at Clear Lake High School, where he has been employed the past 25 years.

The process of education was lucid to Mr. Lobdell.  He clearly knew the value of teaching for the full period, that time on task was essential and that students being responsible for their education was paramount; whether it was his students receiving graduate degrees in science or others entering the work force, the value of Mr. Lobdell’s life lessons weren’t always immediately discovered, but their truth at some point would become apparent. 

Although Mr. Lobdell knew the impetus of education was in the classroom, he also saw the value of students’ maturity in an athletic arena as he compared essential learnings in the classroom with the important skills in athletics. While serving as a volunteer coach in many venues, he freely gave his time for several years, instructing young baseball players in the fundamentals of the game. Just as he demanded discipline with his student-athletes, he clearly demonstrated the same attribute in his lifetime passion for bowling. 

Brother Brett noted the long list of Blake’s bowling accomplishments, but the reason for them, however, was always simple:  Blake scored innumerable perfect 300 games during practice sessions, focusing on just one specific skill set. It was also this mentality that devised the “Lobdell Family Bowling Cup,” a competition designed to enhance the next generation of Lobdell bowlers. While other family members attended and cheered, one constant was always Jane, Blake’s wife.

True to some, Mr. Lobdell could be candid and firm, but he found perfect balance with his out-going and personable life-long mate.  Their sons, Bryce and Colin, a senior and freshman at UNI, grew up in a home where love, respect and decency were expectations. Blake took great pride in the character of his two sons, just as his father, Jack, would have resonated as well.

Blake was a huge WWII buff and Atlanta Braves fan.  He was a member of Clear Lake United Methodist Church, Mason City Bowling Association, Greater Iowa Bowling Association, and Mason City Bowlers Hall of Fame.

Blake is survived by his loving wife, Jane, Clear Lake; two sons, Bryce and Colin, Clear Lake; sister, Kim Miller, Iowa City, Iowa; two brothers, Brett (Sonja) Lobdell, Belmond and Tracy (Stacy) Lobdell, Marshalltown, Iowa; mother-in-law, Carol Showalter and special friend, Roger Paulsen, Belmond; brother-in-law, Greg (Dennett) Showalter, Belmond and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Lobdell; mother, Shirley Nicholson; stepfather, Eugene Nicholson; brother, Kurt Lobdell and father-in-law Rich Showalter.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Mary A. Coyier

Mary A. Coyier, 88, formerly of Clear Lake, died Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011 at the Sibley Nursing and Rehabilitation, Sibley, Iowa. 

A Memorial Mass was held Friday, Sep. 23, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Clear Lake, with the Rev. John R. Tilp officiating. Memorials may be given to the Mary A. Coyier Memorial Fund.

Mary was born in Garner, Iowa, the daughter of William F. and Francis (Gard) Millard.  She graduated from Garner High School and Hamilton Business School.  She worked for the State Department of Social Welfare in Des Moines, Iowa.  She then returned to North Iowa and worked at  Shepherd Abstract in Mason City, Iowa. 

Mary married Wayne L. Coyier on Oct. 26, 1947 in Garner.  They lived in Clear Lake.  Mary moved to Sibley due to her health. 

Mary enjoyed crocheting, painting still life, word puzzles and coffee with the neighbors.  She especially loved spending time with her family.  She was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Mary is survived by her three children, Julie Schroder and her husband, Rod, Sibley, Tom Coyier and his wife, Wendie, Mason City, and Jack Coyier and his wife, Angie, Waukee, Iowa; nine grandchildren, Matthew (Molly) Helmers, Betsy (Bryan) Burkhardt, Heather Schroder, Jon (Meridythe) Schroder, Justin Schroder, Chad (Angie) Kickbush, Shannon (Gary) Keller, Ellis Coyier and Dashiell Coyier; and ten great-grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wayne (Oct. 10, 2003); two brothers, William and John Millard; and an infant great-granddaughter.

Susanne Mary Green

Susanne Mary Green, 72, of 1200 N. 9th St.W., Clear Lake, Iowa died Monday, Sept. 19, 2011 at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, Iowa.

A celebration of life was held Sept. 26 at Opportunity Village Forum, Clear Lake, with the Rev. John R. Tilp officiating. 

Susanne Mary Green, was born on Feb. 11, 1938 to Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Green in Polk County Iowa.

Sue was a long-time member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Clear Lake.  She loved her Sunday services where she was surrounded by her close-knit parish family.

Sue had a zest and deep love for life despite a life-long disability.  Her happiest and most productive years came at her home at Opportunity Village.  There Sue was able to live a meaningful and fulfilled life.

Sue loved standing-out and being the center of attention.  She touched many hearts and lives with her infectious smile and laughter, a kind, considerate and caring person.  She enjoyed socializing and teasing others.  She had many close friends in the area.

Sue enjoyed several trips to the Minnesota Zoo and Reiman Butterfly Gardens in Ames, Iowa. Sue liked shopping, crafts, decorating her room, doing activities with groups, getting her nails done, making jewelry, talking on the telephone, art, cards, magazines and movies.  She was also quite fond of purses, watches, nice clothes, gourmet coffees, getting her hair done, going out, having visitors to her home and using the therapy pool.

Sue will be greatly missed by all those who had the pleasurable experience of knowing and loving her.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

V. Ruth (Ballentyne) Ouverson

V. Ruth (Ballentyne) Ouverson, 92, of Fertile, Iowa passed away Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, at the Good Samaritan Care Center in Forest City, Iowa.

A funeral service was held Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Fertile Church of Christ with Pastor Dennis Ganz and Pastor Rob Perry officiating. Burial followed in the Grant Township Cemetery, rural Fertile.  According to Ruth's wishes, memorials may be designated to Cookson Hills Christian Home in care of Fertile Church of Christ, P.O. Box 125, Fertile, Iowa, 50434.

Ruth was born on Jan. 9, 1919, in Clear Lake. She grew up on a farm just north of Ventura and would often recall how she would walk four miles each day to attend classes at the Grant Township School. Ruth lived with her grandparents in Fertile while she attended Fertile High School.

On July 4, 1936, Ruth was united in marriage to Virgil Ouverson at the Fertile Church of Christ. Together they made their home in Fertile for over 75 years. Throughout her adult years Ruth's first priority was raising their children and tending to their home.

She was accomplished in knitting and crocheting and made many afghans for family members and friends throughout the years. Ruth also enjoyed crossword puzzles and was available to lend a hand whenever the Fertile Church of Christ Christian Workers had an event or activity. Ruth enjoyed going out for dinner with Virgil each Friday evening at Pizza Hut and they did their weekly grocery shopping afterward. Ruth liked watching her weekly episode of "The Lawrence Welk Show" on Saturday.

Those grateful in sharing in Ruth's life are her husband, Virgil, of Fertile; her sons, Larry (Judy) Ouverson, Yellville, Ark., Dennis Ouverson, Sebring, Fla., and Roger (Susan) Ouverson, Vinton, Iowa; 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Dick (Ethel) Ballantyne, Mason City, and Bill (Irene) Ballantyne, Clear Lake; and a sister-in-law, June Ballantyne, Clear Lake; as well as extended family members and many friends.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Dora Ebaugh; a son in infancy, Jimmie Ouverson; a daughter, Rosalie Ouverson; and two brothers, Stan and Darrel Ballantyne.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Floyd Joseph Mecham, Jr. 

Floyd Joseph Mecham, Jr., 94, of 2511 South 3rd Street, Clear Lake, died Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center North Iowa, Mason City, Iowa.

A funeral service was held Saturday, Sept. 24, at Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, with the Rev. Dean Hess officiating.  Burial was in Pleasant View Cemetery, Thornton, Iowa. 

Should friends desire, memorials may be directed to the Floyd J. Mecham Memorial.

Floyd was born Sept. 10, 1917, the son of Floyd Joseph Sr. and Lena (Forburger) Mecham.  He graduated from high school in 1933, and continued his education in ROTC graduating from the University of Nebraska.  Floyd served the United States Army during WWII and Korean Wars; and was later honorably discharged.  He was united in marriage to Laurie Jensen on Dec. 1, 2000.

Floyd had a great sense of humor and was best known as the “Jokester”!  He had a passion for gardening and gained the nickname “Tomato Man.”  He enjoyed golfing, taking trips to the casino, wintering in Arizona and was a sports enthusiast.  Floyd had many favorites including the Nebraska Cornhuskers and cookies, he loved all kinds of cookies!  Floyd was a lifetime member of the V.F.W., Monday Night Football Club, and he was honored to be part of the first Honor Flight in 2009.

Floyd is survived by his wife, Laurie Mecham, Clear Lake; daughters, Peg Millsap, Phoenix, Az. and Sherry Bitker, Clear Lake; 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren;  brother, John (Marlene) Mecham, Lincoln, Neb; father and mother-in-law, Eugene (Mildred) Jensen, Thornton, Iowa; brothers and sisters-in-law, Connie (Larry “Tweet”) Stadtlander, Thornton, Mike (Betty) Jensen, Thornton, and Kathy (Tom) Janeka, Thornton; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and special companions, his pets, Macy, Fred, Rusty and Boots.

Floyd is preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; son, Joseph Mecham III; first wife, Peg; second, wife Margaret; brother, Dale (Dorothy) Mecham; brother-in-law, Donnie Jensen; and his loving dog, Sandy.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Virginia R. Swandahl 

Virginia R. Swandahl, 91, of Clear Lake, died Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, at the Oakwood Care Center, Clear Lake.

According to Virginia's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, was in charge of arrangements.

Mary Louise Byington 

Mary Louise Byington, 79, of 8 South 18th Street, died Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, after a courageous three-year battle with ovarian cancer.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Sept. 30, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 508 2nd Ave. North, with the Rev. Diana Hoover officiating.  Burial will be in Clear Lake Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Thursday, from 5 until 7 p.m. at Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 North 4th Street, Clear Lake.

Memorials may be directed to the Mary Louise Byington Memorial Fund.

Mary Louise was born Jan. 22, 1932, in rural Manly, Iowa, the daughter of Sonke and Johanna (Christiansen) Petersen.  She grew up helping her family on a farm near Manly and Plymouth, Iowa.  She attended and graduated from Plymouth High School in 1949.  Mary Louise was united in marriage to Marvin G. Byington on Jan. 15, 1950. To this union three sons were born.  Mary Louise stayed at home and raised her children. She later worked for Gamble’s Hardware Store and Eddy’s True Value as a sales clerk.

Mary Louise was an avid sports fan of the Minnesota Twins and the Iowa Hawkeyes.  She enjoyed being a seamstress, flower and vegetable gardening, and canning and baking, especially cookies!  Mary Louise also enjoyed playing cards, refinishing furniture, and her children's and grandchildren’s extracurricular activities.  Mary Louise was an active member of the Clear Lake United Methodist Church where she was a member of the Ruth Circle.  On Mondays you could find Mary at her Monday Coffee Club socializing with her friends.

Mary Louise is survived by her children, Michael (Andrea) Byington, of Walcott, Iowa, Mark (Nancy) Byington, of Missoula, Mont., Tim (Diana) Byington, of Clear Lake; grandchildren, Katy (Matt) Brown, Jay Byington, Naomi (Josh) Levelle-Haslett, Jade Byington, Jennifer (Eric) Lamanna, Codie (DJ) Roberts, Tyler Byington, Tassia Tkatschenko; great-grandchildren, Turner Brown and Anthony Lamanna; siblings, John (Joann) Petersen, Pauline (Westly) Bahnsen, Margaret (Paul) Sabin, Marvin (Anita) Petersen, and Tom Petersen; brothers and sisters-in-law, Margaret Byington, Keith (Nancy) Byington, Don ( Marilyn) Byington, and Kathryn (Dennis) Kearns; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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