Obituary Archive Cresco Times-Plain Dealer  214 North Elm Street Cresco Iowa 52136-1522 563 547-3601	First Citizens National Bank, Mason City, is honored to participate as a corporate underwriter of this important north central Iowa community project. Keystroke Ctrl F is a page search tool The Times Plain Dealer archive

John Collins

Funeral services for John "Jack" Collins of Rockford, IL, formerly of Ossian,, will be held at 11:00 a.m. today, February 4 in Cathedral of St. Peter in Rockford with Jack's nephew, Rev. Charles Collins officiating.

Entombment will be in Calvary Mausoleum.

A complete obituary will appear in next week's issue of the Times Plain Dealer.

Billy Cox

Funeral services for Billy Cox were held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 30 at the Presbyterian Church in Canton, MN.

Interment was in Greenfield Cemetery in Harmony, MN. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Billy, 76, died Sunday, January 25, 2004.

Billy Glenn Cox was born May 24, 1927 in McLeansboro, IL, the son of Charles and Mary Cox. He served in the Merchant Marine and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

On April 27, 1952 he married Nancy Walrod in Fort Dodge. A long time resident of Fort Dodge, Bill worked in and owned a men's clothing business there until semi-retiring to Nisswa, MN where he continued to work part-time in the clothing business. In 1987 they moved to Harmony, MN. He worked part-time at Harmony Agri Services, Greenfield Ag and the IGA store.

He is survived by his wife Nancy; one son: Michael; two daughters: Mary Beth Peter and Carol Lardner; four grandchildren; and one brother: George.

Lillian Hageman

Funeral services for Lillian Hageman of Ossian were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27 at Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Festina with Msgr. Cletus J. Hawes officiating.

Interment was in Our Lady of Seven Dolors Cemetery in Festina. Pallbearers were: Brad Matt, Matt Becker, Casey Knight, Dylan Allison, Trevor Hageman, and Mitchell Hageman. Schmitz Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Lillian, 79, died Sunday, January 25, 2004 at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian.

Lillian Marie Hageman was born August 23, 1924 at Seneca, WI, the daughter of William and Ida (Einck) Huinker. She spent her early years in Seneca and attended St. Patrick School. At the age of eight, she and her family moved to the Ossian area and she completed her education at St. Francis de Sales School. Following her education, she worked as a domestic in various homes in Chicago and Ossian.

On November 8, 1948 she married Adrian Hageman in the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian. They made their home on the Hageman family farm. In 1988, they retied from farming and moved to Ossian.

After she moved to town, she started working at the Ossian Senior Hospice as a dietary aide until her health forced her to retire.

Lillian enjoyed quilting, sewing, gardening, bowling, gambling, and playing cards.

She is survived by her husband Adrian; children: Sandy Matt of Cedar Rapids, Peggy Becker of Sumner, Harold of Ossian, Jeanne McGrath of Cresco, Bill of Ossian and Gerri Allison of Mason City; 16 grandchildren; three great-granddaughters; two brothers: William of Postville and Tom of Fort Atkinson; and four sisters: Catherine Moellers of Cresco, Grace Reicks of Lawler, Eunice Bushman of Clermont, and JoAnn Wenthold of Ossian.

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers: Ralph, Charles and infant Donald; and four sisters: Alice Reicks, Luella Reicks, infant Florence Huinker and infant Ida Huinker.

Leeman Hudson

Funeral services for Leeman Hudson of Cresco were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31 at First Lutheran Church in Cresco with Intern Jerleen Schlesser officiating.

Interment was in New Oregon Cemetery in rural Cresco. Pallbearers were: Dennis Berglund, Bret Berglund, Roger Wohlsdorf, Larry Barnes, Brad Berglund, Raymond Gerber, Melvin Borseth, and Gayland Peter. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Leeman, 86, died Tuesday, January 27, 2004 at Rochester, MN.

Leeman Hudson was born May 16, 1917 in Cresco, the son of William E. and Myrtle (Hallman) Hudson. He received his education at Cresco High School and went on to become a successful businessman.

On April 21, 1937 he married Mary Jane Hyke in Cresco where they lived their entire life.

Leeman was honored as being the longest, continuous member of the First Lutheran Church. He was a former member of the church council and the New Oregon Cemetery Board.

He started working for Moen Plumbing of Cresco. He was a licensed plumber and heating contractor in the Cresco area and the owner of Hudson Plumbing Service, which he originated in 1947. After 41 years, he retired from Hudson Plumbing Services in 1988 because of ill health.

He is survived by his wife Mary Jane; one daughter: Shirley Berglund of Greenwood Village, CO; two grandsons; and two great-grandsons.

Leeman was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Lorene Kay and Pauline Cenek; three half sisters: Mae Rathert, Edith Powers, and Doris West; and three half brothers: Albert Hallman, Arthur Hudson, and Earl Hudson.

Glenn Shaffer

Funeral services for Glenn Shaffer of rural Lime Springs will be held at 2:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, February 4 at the Jerico Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jerico with Rev. Kent T. Dethlefsen officiating.

Interment will be in the Jerico Lutheran Cemetery. Pallbearers are: Michael Walton, Kevin Walton, Jay Weems, John Buck, Wayne Schaffer, and Gene Shaffer. Linstrom Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Glenn, 81, died Sunday, February 1, 2004 in Cresco of cancer.

Glenn Arthur Shaffer was born July 16, 1922 at Nevada, the son of Arthur and Vernie (Cook) Shaffer. He attended rural schools and graduated from Colo High School in 1940. He was baptized and confirmed at the Jerico Lutheran Church.

On June 7, 1948 he married Mavis Andrson at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They lived in rural Lime Springs where he continued dairy farming until his death.

He is survived by his wife Mavis; six children: Glenna Walton of Cresco, Sharon Losch of Marion, Daniel of Cresco, Pam Byrnes of Cresco, Betty Rowell of Marion, and Neil of Lime Springs; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two sisters: Dorothy Quam of Oelwein and Doris Williams of Nevada.

Glenn was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Arlene Phantz and Hazel Groomes; and one brother: Earl.

Ted Leichtman

Funeral services for Ted Leichtman of New Hampton were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 2 at the United Methodist Church in New Hampton with Rev. Marshall Monthei officiating.

Interment was in the New Hampton Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Dwight Stapher, David Leichtman, Bill Rahlf, Steve Gebel, Adam Leichtman, Derek Leichtman, Richard Bahr, Gerard Glaser, Loren Kuehner, and Lonnie Slick. Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Ted, 54, died Sunday, January 25, 2004, cause of death pending autopsy results.

Ted Louis Leichtman was born March 6, 1949 at New Hampton, the son of Kenneth and Doris (Kolthoff) Leichtman. He graduated from New Hampton High School in 1967 and went on to graduate from Iowa State University. After his schooling he enlisted in the US Army on October 21, 1971 and served during the Vietman War and was honorably discharged on October 12, 1974. After returning home from the service he worked for the Soil Conservation District as a Soil Technician and also in the Chickasaw County Assessors office with Harold Heying.

On July 7, 1980 he married Donna Harrington at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They lived on a farm Southeast of New Hampton, where they were currently residing. He farmed together with his brother, Kim and also worked at the Farmers Coop in New Hampton from December 1, 1977 until his retirement in July of 2002. He spent much of his time helping his family with their farming whenever he could.

In his childhood he was an active member of the Jacksonville Renegades 4-H Club and the FFA. He enjoyed attending his daughter's volleyball games.

Ted enjoyed canoeing, camping, picnics, putting puzzles together, crossword puzzles and having family and friends over around a bonfire. He loved books and cooking.

He is survived by his wife Donna of New Hampton; one daughter: Andrea; his parents: Kenneth and Doris Leichtman of New Hampton; three brothers: Kim of New Hampton, Dennis of New Hampton, and Kurt of New Hampton; and one sister: Julia Boldra of Blue Springs, MO.

Ted was preceded in death by one brother: Craig C.; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

John Jones

Services will begin for John Jones of Naperville, IL, formerly of Florida at 9:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, February 4 from Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home and will proceed to a 9:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at SS. Peter and Paul Church in Naperville.

Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

John, 72, died Thursday, January 29, 2004 at his home in Naperville.

John E. Jones was born July 25, 1931 in Cresco, the son of John Paul and Loretta Kathryn Jones. He grew up in Cresco and served in the U.S. Marine Corps. during the Korean War. He worked in aviation sales in Florida for many years and was a certified pilot with both private and commercial licenses.

John was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Church and V.F.W. Judd Kendall Post #3873, both of Naperville.

He is survived by six children: Jackie Collins of North Richland Hills, TX, Patti Jones of Stuart, FL, Nancy Sommer of Lake Worth, FL, Tim of Coral Springs, FL, Kathleen Masta of Wellington, FL, and Colleen Foote of Lighthouse Point, FL; seven grandchildren; two brothers: Jim Jones of Lake Carol, IL and C.W. Jones of Cresco; one sister: Pauline Murray of Minneapolis, MN; and a former spouse: Kate Jones of Margate, FL.

John was preceded in death by his parents.

Posted on 02/06/2004 by Gene Manning

John Collins

Funeral services for John "Jack" Collins of Rockford, IL, formerly of Ossian, were held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4 in Cathedral of St. Peter in Rockford with Rev. Paul Krahenbuhl officiating.

Entombment was in Calvary Mausoleum. Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory handled the arrangements.

Jack, 90, died Sunday, February 1, 2004 in Swedish American Hospital.

John L. Collins was born October 5, 1913 in Ossian, son of John and Minnie (Dessel) Collins.

On May 12, 1937 he married Olivia Eimers in St. Francis de Sales Church in Ossian. They previously owned and operated Collins Grocery Store in Ossian before moving to Rockford in 1947. He retired from Mechanics Universal Joints, Division of Borg Warner Corp. in 1978 after employment of 31 years.

He was an active member of the Cathedral of St. Peter and also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by three daughters: Carolyn Schirger of Pecatonica, Sue Clark of Gaithersburg, MD, and Barbara Williams of Ft. Atkinson; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one sister: Estelle Miller of Dubuque.

John was preceded in death by his wife Olivia; his parents; three sisters; and two brothers.

Marvin Edwards

Funeral services for Marvin Edwards of Charles City, formerly of Bassett were held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 6 at the Ionia Funeral Home in Ionia with Rev. Mary Hatch officiating.

Interment was in Chester Hill Cemetery in Chester. Ionia Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Marvin, 76, died Monday, February 2, 2004 at Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City with lung cancer.

Marvin T. Edwards was born November 15, 1927 in Chester, the son of Thomas R. and Bertha (Roberts) Edwards. He attended school in Chester and graduated in 1945. In early 1946 he entered the US Army and was stationed in Alexandria, VA, Tokyo, Japan, and Seoul, Korea. After his discharge in 1947, he went to work at John Deere in Waterloo.

In 1948 he married Elsie May Rowe. In 1952 they moved to Mizpah, MN where they farmed until 1958. They moved to Bassett where he worked at Oliver-White Farm in Charles City until his retirement in 1990. He moved to his present address in Charles City in 1989.

Marvin was an avid hunter and fisherman. In later years ice fishing was his passion, Marvin and Elsie had a trailer on the Mississippi in Red Wing, MN for 30 years. He enjoyed having garage sales and going to garage sales.

He was a member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Ionia.

He is survived by two sons: Dale of LaPorte City and Guy of Charles City; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Marvin was preceded in death by his wife Elsie on August 22, 2003; his parents; and two brothers.

Edna Maklenburg

Funeral services for Edna Maklenburg of New Hampton were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 5 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton.

Interment was in New Hampton Cemetery. Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Edna, 80, died Monday, February 2, 2004 at the Colonial Manor in Elma of natural causes.

Edna Emma Maklenburg was born April 2, 1923 at Mason City, the daughter of Ulysses and Anna (Roehrich) Stansbery. Her family later moved to the New Hampton area where she attended rural school.

On May 16, 1940 she married Herman Maklenburg. They farmed in the New Hampton area until they retired and moved to New Hampton in 1967. She had been a resident of the Colonial Manor in Elma since October 2000.

She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton.

She is survived by one daughter: Mary Ptacek of Elma; one son: David of Mason City; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two brothers: Lawrence of Waterloo and Ervin of New Hampton; and three sisters: Sylvia Nystel of New Hampton, Orella Schwickerath of New Hampton, and Rose Nystel of New Hampton.

Edna was preceded in death by her husband Herman in 1984; and her parents

Ethel Mikkelson

Funeral services for Ethel Mikkelson of Cresco were held on Friday, February 6 at First Lutheran Church in Cresco with Intern Jerleen Schlesser officiating.

Spring interment will be in New Oregon Cemetery in rural Cresco. Pallbearers were: Bruce Chailquist, Harold Hovey, John Mullen, Tim Wolter, Merlin Kratz, and Wilmer Hubka. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Ethel, 79, died Tuesday, February 3, 2004 at the Cresco Care Center in Cresco of natural causes.

Ethel Mae Mikkelson was born September 8, 1924 in Yakima, WA, the daughter of Ray and Edna Shelton. She graduated from the Yakima High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy (W.A.V.E.S.) in 1944 and was honorably discharged in 1946.

On June 7, 1946 she married Myron Mikkelson at Treasure Island Naval Base in California.

She worked as a bookkeeper at Kratz Motors and Ingersol Farm Equipment in Cresco until she was forced to retire in the 1970's due to health problems.

She is survived by her husband Myron; one son: John of Cresco; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren

Ethel was preceded in death by an infant son: Darrel; her mother and father; three brothers; and three sisters.

Francis Ryan

Funeral services for Francis Ryan were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 9 at Notre Dame Parish - St. Joseph's Worship Center in Cresco with Rev. Henry W. Charipar officiating.

Interment was in St. Agnes Cemetery in Plymouth Rock. Pallbearers were: Mike and James Shindelar, Shawn and Robbie Ryan, Lisa Thompson and Angela Shanahan. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Francis, 88, died Tuesday, February 3, 2004 at the Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Francis James Ryan was born November 4, 1915 on the Ryan farm in Winneshiek County, the son of George and Anastasia (Dougherty) Ryan. He attended the rural school near his home. He made farming his life long occupation and hobby.

On November 3, 1937 he married June Hauber at St. Agnes Catholic Church at Plymouth Rock. They made their home on the farm until health forced them to retire to Cresco.

Francis loved farming and his passion was raising Hereford cattle.

He is survived by his wife June; one son: George of Galesville, WI; two daughters: Fran Shindelar of Greenfield and Virginia Shanahan of Rochester, MN; nine grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Francis was preceded in death by one daughter: Sister Adelia Marie Ryan; his parents; five brothers: Gerald, Floyd, Clement, Clarence, and Philip; and four sisters: Leone Conrad, Gladys McCabe, Angeline McGee, and Madelyn Ryan

Bill Jones

Funeral services for Bill Jones of Cresco were held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 7 at Notre Dame Parish - St. Joseph's Worship Center in Cresco with Rev. Henry W. Charipar officiating.

Interment was in St. Bridget's Cemetery in Bluffton. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Bill, 79, died Saturday, January 31, 2004 at the Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Charles William Jones was born November 27, 1924 in Cambria, MO, the son of Paul and Loretta (Tierney) Jones. He graduated from Rudolphinum High School in Protivin. Following his education he entered the United States Navy and served from March of 1943 until February of 1946. He attained the rank of Pharmacist Mate 2c. After his return from the Navy, he enrolled at Loras College and obtained his Bachelors Degree.

Bill worked at various jobs in Chicago, Cedar Rapids, Marion and Cresco. He came home to live with his mother when she became ill.

He was a member of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by one brother: James of Lake Carroll, IL; and one sister: Pauline Murray of Minneapolis, MN.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Thomas and John; and two sisters: Doris Feeney and Janet Gouchee.

Posted on 02/12/2004 by gene Manning

Dorothy Eidenschink

Funeral services for Dorothy Eidenschink of Cresco were held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13 at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco with Rev. Ginny Olson officiating.

Interment was in Orleans Church Cemetery in rural Ridgeway.

Dorothy, 90, died Tuesday, February 10, 2004 at the Cresco Care Center in Cresco.

Dorothy Matilda Blomgren was born July 25, 1913 in Winneshiek County, the daughter of Carl and Mabel (Jewell) Blomgren. She was raised and educated in Winneshiek County near Cardinal Marsh. She was baptized on October 5, 1913 at Orleans Lutheran Church.

She was married to Tedmar Albertson and to this union two sons, Richard and Russell, and one daughter Marlene were born. They divorced and she later married Jerome Eidenschink.

Dorothy was a Cresco resident for several yeas and in 1970 she moved to California where she remained until moving back to Cresco in 1989.

She enjoyed dancing, knitting, making hook rugs, painting, playing cards, and listening to polka music.

She is survived by one daughter: Marlene Hunter of Cresco; one son: Russell of Fergus Falls, MN; her stepsons: Robert Eidenschink of Minnesota, Roger Eidenschink of Arizona, and Charles Eidenschink of Minnesota; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; 12 step grandchildren; 25 step great-grandchildren; and sisters: Ella Albertson, Florence Anderson, Cora Eiler, Rose Ratzliff, Mabel Hovden, Liola Hinneman, and her twin sister Doris Blaess.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband; infant son: Richard; one step grandson; one great-grandson; one great-granddaughter; her parents; sisters: Ruth Rue, Maude Albertson, Pearl Frisch, Aleda Olson, Opal Ellerman, and Josephine Nabolz; and one brother: Carl.

Shirley Evenson

Private funeral services for Shirley Evenson of Phoenix, AZ, formerly of New Hampton were held in Phoenix, AZ.

Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Shirley, 67, died Wednesday, February 11, 2004 at her daughter's home in Phoenix, of cancer.

Shirley Evenson was born June 16, 1936 in Richmond, VA, the daughter of Nelson and Leona (Seay) Wingfield.

On January 7, 1952 she married Ellsworth Jerome Evenson in Chesterfield, SC before moving to Clarks Grove, MN. Shirley began her career working for Pamida in 1965. She was employed for Pamida for 36 years and was the store manager in New Hampton and later in Cresco until her retirement. Shirley moved to Arizona with her daughter and son-in-law in March of 2003.

She is survived by three children: Mitchell of Albert Lea, MN, Scott of Ellendale, MN, and Diane Phillis of Phoenix, AZ; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and her mother: Leona Duke of Richmond, VA.

Shirley was preceded in death by her father: Nelson.

Daniel Lukes

Funeral services for Daniel Lukes of Protivin were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin with Rev. John Moser officiating.

His wife and four children placed the pall. Interment was in Holy Trinity Catholic Church Cemetery in Protivin. Pallbearers were: Theresa Lukes, Aaron Lukes, Chad Heying, Kenn Lukes, Tary Kolek, and Devyn Lukes. Hugeback Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Daniel, 87, died Friday, February 13, 2004 at his home of natural causes.

Daniel J. Lukes was born September 19, 1916 on the Lukes family farm south of Protivin, the son of Godlove George and Cecelia Theresa (Novak) Lukes. He attended rural country school through the eighth grade.

On October 16, 1939 he married Helen Bina of Spillville at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville. They farmed in Winneshiek County and then most of their years were spent farming in Chickasaw County.

Dan enjoyed fishing, playing cards, going to the boat, crocheting, bowling, and farming.

Memberships include Knights of Columbus 4th Degree, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, the Catholic Workman, the Farm Bureau and was a former board member of the Turkey Valley School.

He is survived by his wife Helen; two sons: Larry and Vic, both of Protivin; two daughters: Linda Heying of Ossian and Lana Lukes of Salt Lake City, UT; 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and three brothers: Joe of Protivin, Robert of Mason City, and Wilmer of Protivin.

Daniel was preceded in death by one granddaughter: his parents; one brother: Arthur; and one sister: Helen Pechota.

Marguerite Lenz

Funeral services for Marguerite Lenz of Harmony, MN were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16 at the United Methodist Church in Harmony with Rev. David Laechel officiating.

Interment was in Woodbury Cemetery in Lyle, MN. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Marguerite, 95, died Thursday, February 12, 2004 at the Harmony Health Care in Harmony where she resided since October 2002.

Marguerite A. Lenz was born August 26, 1908 in Indianapolis, IN, the daughter of Edward and Myrtle Galloway. They moved to Iowa when she was a child.

On November 12, 1930 she married Clarence M. Lenz at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They farmed all their married life: first at Lyle from 1936 until 1950 when they purchased a farm at Austin, MN. In 1964 they purchased a farm just outside of Harmony.

She lived in the Harmony Manor from 1994 until she entered the nursing home. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Harmony.

She is survived by four sons: Wayne of Harmony, Marvin of Rochester, Lewis of Richmond, and Jerry of Peoria, AZ; five grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Marguerite was preceded in death by her husband Clarence on July 28, 1995; two brothers; and one sister.

Margaret Jones

Funeral services for Margaret Jones of Lime Springs were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14 at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Lime Springs with Rev. Candraeah Carey officiating.

Interment will be in the spring at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Margaret, 91, died Thursday, February 12, 2004 at the Cresco Care Center in Cresco.

Margaret Hannah Jones was born January 21, 1913 in the Foreston area, north of Lime Springs, the daughter of Robert H. and Sarah Jones. She attended the Lime Springs public schools for 12 years. She graduated in 1931. She attended Wheaton College and Iowa State Teacher's College. She taught in north west Iowa for five years and for 35 years in the Des Moines public schools. During her years in Des Moines, she was active in the Westminister Presbyterian Church. She was also active in the Presbyterian Church in Lime Springs until it closed.

Margaret enjoyed traveling, music, and educational television.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: Thomas and William; and one sister: Elizabeth.

Matilda Praska

Funeral services for Matilda Praska were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 16 at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin with Rev. John Moser officiating.

Interment was in the Holy Trinity Catholic Church Cemetery in Protivin. Pallbearers were her grandchildren. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Matilda, 74, died Friday, February 13, 2004 at the Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco after a short illness.

Matilda Evelyn Praska was born April 26, 1929 in Howard County, the daughter of Lewis F. and Christina (Novak) Malek. She attended the rural school near her home through the eighth grade and later went on to obtain her GED. Following her early education, she helped other families in the care of their home.

On November 8, 1949 she married Reuben Praska at the Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. They began farming. She belonged to the Assumption Church and following her marriage, she joined the Holy Trinity Church.

Matilda loved to garden and grow flowers. She also liked to embroider, cook, crossword puzzles, play cards, listen to polka music and play her accordian.

She is survived by her husband Reuben; two daughters: Diane Schmitt and Janice Lansing, both of Cresco; one son: Ronald of Cresco; eight grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

Matilda was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother: Benjamin.

Lucille Walker

Funeral services for Lucille Walker of Riceville were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17 at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Riceville with Rev. Gale Richards officiating.

Interment was in Riverside Cemetery in Riceville. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Lucille, 95, died Tuesday, February 10, 2004 at the Riceville Community Rest Home.

Lucille Walker was born February 6, 1909 in Grandville, ND, the daughter of John H. and Christine (Olsen) Shierry. She lived in Stanley, ND until age nine when her family moved to Sandypoint, ID.

On March 4, 1933 she married Thomas G. Walker, M.D. at Eugene, OR whom she met while attending nurses training at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland, OR where she received her nursing degree. They moved to Riceville in 1934 where Thomas established his medical practice.

Lucille was active in the community being a member of the American Legion, Eastern Star, and the Golden Rule Circle.

She is survived by one son: John of Tierra Verde, FL; one daughter: Susan Baker of Plymouth, MI; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and one brother: Paul of Boise, ID.

Lucille was preceded in death by her husband Thomas; and her parents.

Anne Spencer

Private services are being planned for Anne Spencer of Laguna Woods, CA, formerly of Cresco.

Anne, 88, died Saturday, January 3, 2004.

Anne Doneele Spencer was born October 7, 1915, grew up in Cresco, attended school here and upon graduating, worked as a secretary at Cresco High School. While living in Cresco, she met her first husband, G. Alden Jackson of Decorah, and her childhood and life long best friend, Ada Baker of Cresco. Alden passed away in April 1956 and she married Douglas Spencer of Pasadena, CA.

Upon moving to California in the late 1930s, she became actively involved as a volunteer in her children's activities including Scouts and the PTA. She spent many years working in the PTA and served as the president of her children's junior high school PTA. Upon completing her PTA service, she received that organization's highest award, an honorary lifetime membership.

Anne participated in many club activities and enjoyed playing bridge, music, and visiting favorite places.

She is survived by one son: John Jackson of Sacramento, CA; one daughter: Elizabeth Balcom of Hacienda Heights, CA; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one brother: Arthur Anderson of Salinas, CA.

Posted on 02/19/2004 by Gene Manning

Robert Andera

Funeral services for Robert Andera of Cresco were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21 at the Notre Dame Parish - St. Joseph's Worship Center with Rev. Henry W. Charipar officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Pallbearers were: Nicholas, Luke, Logan, Paul, Kenneth, and Jerald Andera. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Robert, 70, died Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at the Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco.

Robert Andera was born June 17, 1933 in Winneshiek County near Spillville, the son of Albert and Frances (Humpal) Andera. He attended the rural school in Winneshiek County. Following his education he started working with his brother in the electrical business in Spillville. Bob became the youngest businessman in Spillville when he had to run the electrical business after his brothers went to war.

On March 27, 1952 he entered the United States Navy and served with the Aviation Electrical Supply. He was honorably discharged on March 27, 1960. Following his return home, he worked with his brother in the electrical business.

On October 8, 1957 he married Janet Havel at the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Schley. They lived the first five years in Spillville. They moved to Cresco in October of 1962 and purchased an electrical business. Bob and his family ran Bob's Electric until he sold to his sons in 1998.

Bob was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to go hunting, fishing, camping, and gardening. He enjoyed watching his children play sports.

Bob was a former member of the Chamber of Commerce, one of the group that started the Christmas lights, was formerly on the Parish Council and Notre Dame School Board.

He is survived by his wife Janet; two daughters: Deann Lindgren of Eden Prairie, MN and Darla Brown of Ankeny; three sons: Dale, Darrel, and David, all of Cresco; 16 grandchildren; two sisters: Marcella Hayek of Spillville and Mary Soukup of Decorah; and four brothers: Frank of Mabel, MN, Matt of Calmar, William of Lawler, and Lawrence of Decorah.

Robert was preceded in death by one granddaughter; his parents; two sisters: Adella Peterson and Frances Hageman; and four brothers: Albert, Louis, Edward, and Cyril in infancy.

Coralie Johnson

Funeral services for Coralie Johnson of New Hampton were held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 23, 2004 at the United Methodist Church in New Hampton with Pastor Marshall Monthei officiating.

Interment was in New Hampton Cemetery in New Hampton. Pallbearers were: Mike Barton, Missy Johnson Mike Anderson, Kathy Anderson, Dave Engel, and Mary Fleming. Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Coralie, 87, died Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton of natural causes.

Coralie C. Johnson was born October 10, 1916 in Waterloo, the daughter of M.F. and Hazel (Green) Coontz. She attended elementary school in Waterloo and was a 1934 graduate of West High School in Waterloo. While in high school she was on the swim team and the diving team. Coralie graduated in 1938 from Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls where she received a Bachelors Degree in Home Economics. Coralie taught school in Colwell and Mitchelville and was an area supervisor for the school lunch programs in area counties.

On September 14, 1942 she married Walter William Johnson in Los Angeles, CA. The couple lived in Readlyn where her husband taught and coached. In 1956 they moved to New Hampton where she supervised study hall and was a remedial reading teacher for many years.

She is survived by one son: Terry of Marion; one daughter: Jonalie Barton of Maple Grove, MN; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and three brothers: A. Phillip of Cedar Falls, Louis of Corning, and Harvey of Evansville, IN.

Coralie was preceded in death by her husband Walter on May 31, 1984; and her parents.

Theodore Biwer

Funeral services for Theodore "Ted" Biwer of Elma were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 23 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Elma with Msgr. John Hemann officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Elma. Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Theodore, 96, died Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at the Colonial Manor in Elma of natural causes.

Theodore John Biwer was born February 6, 1908 in the country near Elma, the son of Theodore and Mary (Shatek) Biwer. The family later moved to Elma where he was presently living when Theodore was five year old. He was a 1927 graduate of the Immaculate Conception Academy in Elma. After his graduation, Theodore moved to California where he worked as a carpenter. On January 30, 1941, he enlisted in the US Army and served with Company F, 32nd Infantry during WWII, until his honorable discharge on September 21, 1941. Following his discharge he remained in California and continued working as a carpenter. Some of his carpentry jobs included doing work for movie stars; one in particular was Shirley Temple. He later returned to Elma and continued in carpentry.

Theodore enjoyed playing cards, playing pool, traveling to many states, even Cuba, and woodworking.

He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Elma.

Theodore was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Anthony; and two sisters: Alice and Anna.

Gertrude Gebel

Funeral services for Gertrude Gebel of Alta Vista were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24 at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Alta Vista with Msgr. John Hemann officiating.

Her children placed the pall. Interment was in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Alta Vista. Pallbearers were: Ronald Tenge, Ryan Tenge, Brenda Geerts, Bryan Laneville, Joel Laneville, and Paul Laneville. Conway-Kolbet Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Gertrude, 84, died Thursday, February 19, 2004 at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City of natural causes.

Gertrude M. Gebel was born July 23, 1919 in rural Chickasaw County, near Jerico, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Weigel) Quirk. She attended country school and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1936. After her schooling she taught country school in Chickasaw County.

On April 17, 1945 she married Alex Gebel at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Hampton. They farmed west of Elma until moving to a farm north of Alta Vista in 1951 where they remained until their retirement in 1974. After the couple retired they moved to Alta Vista.

Gertrude enjoyed playing cards and baking.

She was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Church and Rosary Society.

She is survived by four children: Dianne Tenge of Alta Vista, Dean of Alta Vista, Debra Laneville of Waterloo, and Duane of Spring Valley, MN; 10 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband Alex in 1984; her parents; three sisters: Grace Swehla, Mable Gebel, Evelyn McGrane; and two brothers: Harold and Walter.

Florence Hill

Funeral services for Florence Hill of Fredericksburg were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24 at the United Methodist Church in Fredericksburg with Pastor Rose Calderon - Kahn officiating.

Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg. Pallbearers were: Harold Nordas, Dale Miller, Richard Mattke, Amos Brandenburg, Lee Stover, and Hugh McIntosh. Honorary pallbearers were: Andrew and Aaron Becker. Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Florence, 88, died Saturday, February 21, 2004 at the New Hampton Care Center.

Florence Ethel Hill was born January 7, 1916 in rural Chickasaw County, Southeast of Fredericksburg, the daughter of Herman and Emma (Klotz) Mattke. Florence attended Social Center rural country school and graduated from Fredericksburg High School in 1933. Florence and her sisters raised chickens, ducks, and geese while running a hatchery in Fredericksburg. She was an accomplished baker, decorating cakes for celebrations in the area.

In 1958 she married Albert Hill at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They moved to a farm east of Fredericksburg where they farmed until the mid 1970s, when they moved to town. After moving to town Florence worked many years in the laundry department of the Sunrise Guest Home in Fredericksburg.

Florence enjoyed making doilies and crocheting.

She is survived by one sister: Ethel Mattke of Fredericksburg.

Florence was preceded in death by her husband Albert on November 27, 1978; her parents; three sisters: Marie Mattke, Edna Mattke, and Lillian Mattke; and one brother: Glenn.

Danford Olson

Funeral services for Danford Olson of Harmony, MN will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26 at Greenfield Lutheran Church in Harmony with Rev. James Radatz officiating.

Friends may call from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday at Lindstrom Funeral Home in Harmony and at the church one hour before services on Thursday.

Interment will be in Greenfield Cemetery in Harmony.

Danford, 62, died Sunday, February 22, 2004 at home of cancer.

Danford Olson was born September 2, 1941 in Lanesboro, MN.

On November 3, 1963 he married Janeen Lawson. He lived most of his life in the Harmony area.

He was employed 25 years with Pederson Bros. and the past five years at Minnowa Construction as a truck driver.

Danford enjoyed ice fishing, camping, antiques, and traveling.

He is survived by his wife Janeen; two sons: Tom of Chatfield, MN and Tim of Harmony; five grandchildren; two brothers: Ordean and Ordon, both of Harmony; and four sisters: Carla Erickson of Harmony, Phyllis Gregorson of Harmony, Betty Willert of Austin, MN, and Daphne Lawson of Jacksonville, FL.

Danford was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.

Posted on 02/27/2004 by Gene Manning