Ronald Laudner, 73

Published November 12, 2003, Page B-5

Ronald J. Laudner Sr., 73, of Rockford, died on Sunday afternoon, November 2, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 5, at the Zion Lutheran Church, Rockford, with Rev. Patricia Shaw officiating. Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery, Rockford, with flag folding ceremonies by the Walker Graper Post #338 of the American Legion. The Fullerton Schumburg Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.

Ron was born on January 22, 1930, just outside Rockford. He was one of eleven children born to Jonathon and Ruby (Buckingham) Laudner. He was baptized and confirmed in the Methodist faith in Rockford in 1943. He graduated from the Rockford High School in 1947 and served his country faithfully in the Army from 1951 to 1953, when he was honorably discharged. Ron was united in marriage to Mary Ellen Oswald on September 1, 1956 in Forest City. He worked in Iowa at various jobs until joining the Farmers Mutual Telephone Company in 1955. He held various positions with the company and became the General Manager from 1968 until his retirement in 1995.

He was a member of the Iowa Telephone Association and was a board member from 1974 until 1994 and served as the president in 1991. Ronnie was a founding member and past president of the Rockford Golf and Country Club, where he spent many happy times. He also served the community on the Rockford Volunteer Fire Department for many years and remains an honorary member. He was a member and past president of the Rockford Lions Club. As his health deteriorated he still had a beaming smile and a gentle hello for everyone.

Those thankful in sharing Ron's life include his wife of 47 years, Mary Ellen; one daughter, Angie and her husband, Brian Sanders of Urbandale; two sons, Ronald J. Laudner Jr. and his wife, Kathy Douglass of Nora Springs and Chuck and his wife, Stephanie Laudner of Rockford; four grandchildren, Zachary, Alexander, Jonathon and Emily Laudner; four sisters, Wava Uker of Sheffield, Maxine and her husband, Roger Fullerton of Rockford, Sandra and her husband, George West of Palm City, Florida and Diane Massee of Rockford, Illinois; three brothers, Delbert and his wife, Mary Lou Laudner of El Cajon, California, Marvin "Pete" and his wife, Eileen Laudner of Maple Grove, Minnesota and Larry and his wife, Mary Laudner of Chula Vista, California; and a host of nieces, nephews and many special friends from Rockford, the surrounding area and across the nation.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Lorraine Van den Brand and Lois Schulz; and one brother, Dallas Laudner.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Wanda Johnson, 84

Published November 12, 2003, Page B-5

Wanda J. Johnson, age 84, of Forest City, died on Sunday, November 2, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 5, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Lee Laaveg officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery, rural Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Wanda J. Johnson, was born near Fertile on December 1, 1918, the daughter of Valentine and Hazel (Hurd) Kiefer. She received her education in a rural school near her home. She was united in marriage to James H. Johnson on February 14, 1948. Wanda entered into this union with three children from a previous marriage, Frederick Irvin, Douglas Irvin and Mavis Irvin Nieman. They became a family and settled on a small farm north of Forest City. Wanda and Jim had three more children, Dean Johnson, David Johnson and Beth Johnson Erdman.

Wanda raised her family and worked hard at everything she did, whether it was milking cows, cooking in restaurants or caring for others as a nurse's aid at the Forest City Hospital and at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City. She loved to fish and enjoyed spending time with her family. She was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City.

Wanda is survived by her children, Mavis Nieman and husband, John of Kamrar, Fred Irvin and wife, Sandy of Jonesburg, Missouri, Douglas Irvin and wife, Viola of Ashland, Nebraska, Dean Johnson of Forest City and Beth Johnson Erdman and husband, Jay of Blue Earth, Minnesota; 17 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Clifford Kiefer of Lime Springs and Robert Kiefer of Clear Lake; and a sister, Frances Kiefer Adams of Forest City.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James Johnson; a son, David Lee; three brothers, Charles, Don and Shirley Kiefer; and two sisters, Ruth Kiefer Irvin and Verna Kiefer Drake.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Mattie Martinson, 92

Published November 19, 2003, Page B-5

Mattie Martinson, 92, of Lake Mills, died on Sunday, November 2, 2003, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills.

Funeral services were held on Friday, November 7, at the Emmons Lutheran Church in Emmons, Minnesota, with Rev. Julie Fiske officiating. Burial was in the Oak Lawn Cemetery in Emmons, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Severin Severson, 81

Published November 12, 2003, Page B-5

Severin Severson, age 81, of Forest City, died on Tuesday, November 4, 2003, at his home in Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 8, at the Pilot Knob Lutheran Church in rural Forest City, with Rev. Bob Snitzer and Rev. Orville Walters officiating. Burial was in the Pilot Knob Lutheran Cemetery, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Severin Severson, was born on March 6, 1922 near Columbus, North Dakota, to Bendik and Bertha Marie (Roseland) Severson. He was baptized in a rural church near Columbus. In 1923, his family moved to a farm near Forest City. On October 29, 1949, he married Pearl Maurine Westervelt in Plainfield. To this union three children were born. Pearl died on February 8, 1989. He served in the U.S. Army for four years. He farmed for many years, was a carpenter and worked at Winnebago Industries for 24 years. On March 20, 1993, he was united in marriage to Lorraine Iverson.

Severin was a member of the Pilot Knob Lutheran Church for 50 years. He was a member of the Kum Along Club, CBMC (Christian Business Men's Club) and Sons Of Norway. He was an active volunteer in the community including Meals On Wheels, Senior Citizens and construction work at Heritage Park. He enjoyed wood carving and wood working. He liked to go fishing with family/friends and was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins. He loved yard work and loved to tease his two pet cats.

Severin is survived by his wife, Lorraine; three sons, Ronnie Severson and his wife, Barbara of Casper, Wyoming, Allen Severson and his wife, Juanita of Fertile and John Bray and his wife, Susan of Lake Mills; two daughters, Janet Carlson and husband, Norman of Des Moines and Carol Bray of Forest City; eight grandchildren, Timothy Severson of Fertile, Todd Severson of Fertile, James Severson of Fertile, Krista Carlson of Des Moines, Erik Carlson of Des Moines, Carolyn Hippe and husband, Duane of Casper, Wyoming and Kim Koppes of Brainerd, Minnesota; six great-grandchildren; one sister, Ruth Hagge of Mankato, Minnesota; four brothers, Paul Severson and wife, Zella of Longmont, Colorado, Kenneth Severson and wife, Phyllis of Shelburne, Vermont, Burt Severson and wife, Barbara of Darien, Illinois, Stanley Severson and wife, Deloris of St. Cloud Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Hazel Severson of Clear Lake, Lillian Severson of El Cajon, California and Marge Severson of Isle, Minnesota; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife; three sisters, Bernice Lenning, Emeline (his twin) Peters and Mable Iverson; and five brothers, Fred, Walter, Tilman and Julian (Jerry) Severson.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Evert Swalve, 83

Published November 19, 2003, Page B-5

Evert Swalve, 83, of Buffalo Center, died on Tuesday, November 4, 2003, at the Timely Mission Nursing Home in Buffalo Center.

Funeral services were held on Friday, November 7, at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Buffalo Center, with Lay Pastor Perry Aalgaard and Pastor Paul Haugen officiating. Interment was in the Graceland Cemetery in Buffalo Center, with the Winter Funeral Home of Buffalo Center in charge of the arrangements. Organist, Nancy Jensvold accompanied the congregational hymns. Priscilla Miller played hymns on the marimba. Casket bearers were Eugene Irons, Dave Kopp, Jeff Swalve, Dennis Tweeten, Jim Badje and Lowell Swalve.

Evert, the son of Otto and Elsie (Sleper) Swalve, was born on December 15, 1919 at Ledyard. He was baptized at the Ledyard Reformed Church. He was united in marriage to Jennie Badje on April 30, 1940 at Fairmont, Minnesota. Together they were members of the Zion Lutheran Church in Rake. Evert farmed and sold new and used machinery in the Kiester and Bricelyn, Minnesota areas for many years. When Jennie and Evert retired, they moved to Buffalo Center in 1987 and made their home there ever since. At that time they became members of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 63 years, Jennie of Buffalo Center; two grandchildren, Michael (Brenda) Swalve of Albert Lea, Minnesota and Kristi Swalve of Emmons, Minnesota; his great-grandson, lan Wildeman of Emmons; daughter-in-law, Sharon (Marlin) Herfendal of Albert Lea, Minnesota; brothers, Otto (Norma) Swalve of Estherville, Ellsworth (Betty) Swalve of Owens and Andrew (Rozella) Swalve of Estherville; sisters, Annie Schroeder of Estherville, Sena (Forest) McGregor of Buffalo Center, Tille Graft of Sandpoint, Idaho, Elsie (Harold) Selberg of Estherville, Anita (Vern) Barlow of Estherville, Leona Klene of Estherville, Ada Williams of Estherville; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Evert was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, John Larry in infancy and David Otto in 1997; and three brothers, John Isenbrand, Richard Swalve and Roy Swalve.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Anna Escherich, 94

Published November 12, 2003, Page B-5

Anna Escherich, 94, formerly of Lake Mills, died on Thursday, November 6, 2003, at the Heritage Care Center in Mason City, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Monday, November 10, at the Scarville Evangelical Lutheran Synod Church in Scarville, with Rev. Thomas Rank officiating. Burial was in the Scarville Evangelical Lutheran Synod Cemetery in Scarville, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Anna Escherich, was born on August 9, 1909 in Winnebago County, Iowa, the daughter of Olai and Engel (Nordhus) Arnevik. She was baptized and confirmed at the North Prairie Lutheran Church west of Lake Mills. On March 23, 1938, she was united in marriage to Reuben Escherich in Northwood. They had seven children whom she loved caring and cooking for. Reuben passed away on July 14, 1985, after that she moved to Emmons, Minnesota.

Anna was a special person, not only to her family, but to everyone that has ever known her. She always put family and friends before her own needs. She was always willing to give a helping hand when needed and was never known or heard to complain about anything. She was a kind and considerate woman and a true lady in every sense of the word, and she was always there to help others, she will be missed by all.

Anna is survived by her children, Wayne Escherich of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, Donald and his wife, Barbara Escherich of Mason City, Dianne and her husband, James Sorenson of Britt, Susan and her husband, Kyle Helmick of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Reuben, Jr. and his wife, Linda Escherich of Clear Lake and Lyle and his wife, Deb Escherich of Clear Lake; twelve grandchildren, Randy Escherich, Brian Escherich, James Escherich, Daniel Escherich, Marianne Dinges, Gentry Sorenson, Heather Sorenson, Nikki Sorenson, Rory Helmick, Robert Escherich, Darci Escherich and Devan Helgeson; fourteen great-grandchildren; along with several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Reuben; one son, Robert A. Escherich; two grandsons, Ryan and Bradley Escherich; five brothers, Thor, Bernard, Elmer, Alfred and Selmer Arnevik.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Jeanette Bergland, 95

Published November 12, 2003, Page B-5

Jeanette M. Bergland, 95, of Lake Mills, died on Thursday, November 6, 2003, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 8, at the Bethel Lutheran Church in Vinje, with Rev. Dani Jo Ninke-Greaver officiating. Burial will be in the Bethel Lutheran Cemetery in Vinje, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Jeanette Mabel Bergland, was born on December 2, 1907 in Eden Township, Winnebago County, Iowa, the daughter of Mons and Mary (Erdahl) Aske. On May 6, 1926, she was united in marriage to Bennie R. Johnson at a Methodist Parsonage in Mason City, Iowa. Bennie passed away on August of 1968. On December 6, 1969, she married Elmer O. Bergland at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Elmer passed away on October 7, 1990. Jeanette worked for Deluxe in Lake Mills for several years, prior to that she was a homemaker on the farm.

She loved her family. She like to bowl and play Bingo and cards. She and Elmer wintered in Texas for nineteen years. She entered the Lake Mills Care Center in 1998.

Jeanette is survived by her loving children, Darlyn Engebritson of Vinje, Marvin and his wife, Helene Johnson of North Ft. Meyers, Florida, Gloria and her husband, Cleo Langfald of Scarville and Ione and her husband, Norman Nelson of Forest City; daughter-in-law, Eileen Sunde of Scarville; 22 grandchildren; 51 great-grandchildren; 26 great-great-grandchildren; step-son, Gary and his wife, Mary Jo Bergland of McHenry, Illinois; step-daughters, Elaine and Marion Ingebritson of Lake Mills and Loraine and her husband, Irvin Wangness of Calmer; along with several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Bennie; her second husband, Elmer; son, Donald; son-in-law, Merel Engebritson; brothers, Gilbert and Oliver; sisters, Inanda and Madeline; two granddaughters; and two great-granddaughters.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Alpha Swanson, 98

Published November 12, 2003, Page B-5

Alpha Luella Swanson, 98, of Forest City, died on Saturday, November 8, 2003, at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 12, at the Calvary Baptist Church in Forest City, with Rev. Doug Farrell officiating. Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

(Alpha) Luella Swanson, was born in Forest City, Iowa on October 18, 1905, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Segerstrom) Lewis. She attended Forest City Schools and graduated from the Forest City High School in 1924 with her Normal School Teaching Degree. Luella taught in country schools in Ellington and Mount Valley Townships for seven years even completing a school year after her marriage. On December 26, 1931, she married Herman Swanson in Albert Lea, Minnesota. The couple made their home on a farm southeast of Forest City for many years. They retired from farming in 1982 and moved to Forest City.

Luella was an active member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Forest City, where she taught Sunday School and was involved with the Awana Club. She took good care of her family and enjoyed quilting, baking, canning and looking after her garden, especially her flowers and violets.

She is survived by her three children, William Swanson and wife, Kathy of Yuma, Arizona, Sharon Curtis and husband, David of Nekoosa, Wisconsin and Lois Pruett of Rochester, Minnesota; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Luella was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Herman in 1988; a daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Edward Gutierrez; a granddaughter, LuDawn Curtis; a sister, Elsie Olson; and three brothers, Lyle, Russell and Forest Lewis.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Elwood Norstrud, 75

Published November 19, 2003, Page B-5

Elwood Norstrud, 75, died on Saturday, November 8, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 11, at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Thompson, with Pastor Mark Decker officiating. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Thompson, with the Winter Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements. Organist, Mary Ann Olsen accompanied the congregation in hymns and a ladies trio of Joan Christianson, Karen Askeland and LaVonne Grunhovd sang "My God and I." Casket bearers were Ed Friest, Rod Wubben, Darrell Friest, Bruce Wubben, Kevin Hamlin, Mick Wigen and Jon Wigen. Honorary bearers were Dick Langerud, Leonard Nelson, Dean Farland, Rayburn Hagenson, Vincent   Finer, Robert Johnson, Dennis Underbakke and Gary Friesenborg.

Vernon Elwood, the son of Clarence and Inez (Mathews) Norstrud, was born on April 14, 1928 in the family home in rural Leland. He attended rural elementary school, the Leland Community School and graduated from the Forest City High School. He was baptized and confirmed at the West Prairie Lutheran Church, rural Leland. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Doyle on November 20, 1947. Dorothy died on July 1, 1988. He was married to Charlotte Jutting on June 20, 1996. Elwood farmed in the Leland and Thompson areas before purchasing the stockyards in Thompson. He enjoyed fishing and golf, and especially enjoyed visiting and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte of Thompson; a daughter, Gayle Norstrud and her husband, Dennis Anderson of Menomonie, Wisconsin; sons, Kenneth (Judy) of Duluth, Minnesota, Donald (Faith) of Roseville, Minnesota and David (Chereen) of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota; step-children, Martin (Vickie) Jutting, Harold (Sue) Jutting and Christie (Tim) Strait; seven grandchildren, Nicholas Maher, Lynne Hamre, Roberta Cich, Cheryl Wingate, Lindsey Vinge, Nathan Norstrud and Lainie Norstrud; four step-grandchildren, Alan Karalius, Christopher Karalius, Sara Karalius and Heather Jutting; five great-grandchildren; sisters, Arlene Friest of Buffalo Center and Vivian (Myron) Wigen of Hutchinson, Minnesota; and a host of other relatives and friends.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Harold Eisenman, 63

Published November 19, 2003, Page B-5

Harold W. Eisenman, 63, of Mason City, died on Saturday, November 8, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 11, at the First Reformed Church in Buffalo Center, with Pastor Bill Peake officiating. Committal service by Pastor Randy Vaage was at the Evergreen Cemetery in Britt, with the Winter Funeral Home of Buffalo Center in Charge of the arrangements. Organist, Marlene Krull accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and the congregation in hymns. Casket bearers were Chet Eisenman, Clifton Hill, Harlan Metz, Steve Hanna, Howard Julius and Willie Wubben.

Harold Willard, the son of Willard and Bernice (Riehm) Eisenman, was born on August 6, 1940 at Britt. He attended school in Britt and Buffalo Center. He was united in marriage to Lenora Bebo and to this union were born three daughters. Harold later married Diann Tannahill and this union was blessed with a son. Throughout his adult life, Harold farmed and was a business owner in Buffalo Center. In 1988, he moved to Mason City and was currently a courier with Priority in Clear Lake.

Surviving Harold are his children, Julie (Ed) Duran of Cedar Rapids, Pam (Al) Winter of Clarion, Monica Oetker of Marshalltown and Andrew Eisenman of Garner; his grandchildren, Amanda and Katie Duran, Jessie and Brady Winter, Paige, Jacob and Megan Oetker; his great-granddaughter, Genesis; and his sister, Cynthia "Sis" Eisenman of Omaha, Nebraska.

He was preceded in death by his parents.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Ubbie Harms, 80

Published November 19, 2003, Page B-5

Ubbie F. Harms, 80, died on Sunday, November 9, 2003, at the Lake Mills Care Center.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 12, at the First Reformed Church in Buffalo Center, with Pastor Bill Peake officiating. Interment was in the Olena Mound Cemetery, Buffalo Center, with the Winter Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements. Organist, Marlene Krull accompanied soloist, Brenda Simon and congregation hymns. Casket bearers were Kenneth Skjeie, Dale Steinmetz, Michael Skjeie, David Skjeie, Rick Skjeie and Brad Bakken.

Ubbie F, the son of Harm and Johanna (Jutting) Harms, was born on April 20, 1923, on a farm near Buffalo Center. Ubbie grew up near Buffalo Center and Woden. He was baptized in the Reformed Church and attended school in Buffalo Center and country school. Ubbie was united in marriage to Harriet Harringa on April 6, 1945, at the Methodist Parsonage in Algona. They farmed a few years south of Buffalo Center. In 1952, he went to work at Welps Hatchery in Bancroft for 10 years. Later he was a custodian at the Forest City, Clear Lake and Crystal Lake Schools, as well as Manufacturers Bank, Timely Mission Nursing Home and the Reformed Church.

He enjoyed using his hands in remodeling projects and liked talking with young people, listening to country music and visiting at the Grand Ole Opry and Branson, Missouri. He took great pleasure in the company of his grandchildren and friends. He was a very social person.

Ubbie is survived by his wife, Harriet of Buffalo Center; daughters, Joanne (Terry) Steinmetz of Northwood, Ruth Skjeie of Lu Verne, Minnesota and Cheryl (James) Bakken of Forest City; 12 grandchildren, Dale and Joan Steinmetz of Des Moines, Beth and Mark Heller of Blairsburg, Laural Steinmetz of Iowa City, Sara Steinmetz of Indianola, Kenneth and Teresa Skjeie, David Skjeie, Rick and Shelly Skjeie, all of Forest City, Michael Skjeie of Golden Valley, Arizona, Cheila and Bryan Frayne, Dawn and Jeremy Mills, Bradley Bakken, all of Garner and Brenda and Eddie Simon of Mason City; 13 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Leonard (Lots) of Forest City and Harley (Doris) of Buffalo Center; four sisters, Francis Kelso of Buffalo Center, Leona (Jim) Vinz of Thompson, Dorie (Gary) Sinnard and Linda (Kevin) Johnson, all of Forest City; sister-in-law, Louise Harms of Sweetwater, Tennessee; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Anna; brothers, Harold and Willard; and a grandson.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Dean Nelson, 84

Published November 26, 2003, Page B-7

Dean D. Nelson, 84, of Mason City, died on Sunday, November 9, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, November 13, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church, with Rev. Paul D. Finger officiating. Burial was in the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery, Stanhope, with military honors conducted by members of the American Legion Post # 191, Webster City. The Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

Dean Deforest, son of Iver and Inger (Twedt), was born on April 8, 1919 near Fairmont, Minnesota. He graduated from the Stratford High School and attended Business College in Chillicothe, Missouri. He enlisted and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a control tower operator. He was united in marriage to Doris M. Whaley on June 11, 1951 at Webster City. Dean farmed in the Brownsdale and Crystal Lake, Minnesota areas and later, near Rake. Along with a partner, Dean operated Wayne's Feed Produce Company at Stanhope. From 1969-82, he worked with the USDA as a District Farm Program Director in North Iowa.

Dean was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Mason City and the Farm Bureau.

He is survived by his wife, Doris of Mason City; a daughter, Debra (Ron) Novak of Forest City; a son, Brandon Nelson of Lake Mills; and a brother, Wayne (Jan) Nelson of Des Moines.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and six brothers.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

John Schaeffer, 101

Published November 19, 2003, Page B-5

John C. Schaeffer, 101, died on Monday, November 10, 2003, at the Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames.

Funeral services were held on Monday, November 17, at the United Methodist Church in Forest City, with Rev. Gary Marzolf officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery in Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

John Carson, the son of Gustavus Jeremiah and Anna (Carson) Schaeffer, was born on a farm northwest of Forest City, on February 12, 1902. He attended rural school near his home and graduated from the Forest City High School in 1919. On June 4, 1932, he married Hazel Eleanora Hendrickson. John farmed until his retirement in 1970.

He served on the Leland Elevator Board, the Thompson Creamery Board and Farm Bureau. He was a life long member of the United Methodist Church in Forest City, where he was active on various committees. He was also a Kum Along Klub member and enjoyed spending time at the senior citizen's center while living in Forest City.

John is survived by his children, Eleanor Asbe and husband, Walter of Kamiah, Idaho, Gene Schaeffer and wife, Erma of Story City and Roger Schaeffer and wife, Nancy of Spring Green, Wisconsin; five grandchildren, Holly (Mitch) Weisberger, Doug (Sandra) Asbe, Timm (Daris) Schaeffer, Tom (Lori) Schaeffer, Mary (Kurt) LeFebvre; and 12 great-grandchildren, Kirsten and Leah Parsons, Laura and Amy Asbe, Jacob, Lydia and Riley Schaeffer, John, Connor and Katelyn Schaeffer, Morgan and Taylor LeFebvre.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Hazel in 1985; and two brothers, Roscoe and Dr. Earl Schaeffer.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Sidney Willey, 59

Published November 26, 2003, Page B-7

Sidney A. Willey, 59, died on Wednesday, November 12, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 15, at the First Lutheran Church in Milford, with Rev. Robert Vaage officiating. Burial will be at a later date. Pallbearers were Ken Asbe, Gaylen Dick, Ed Jones, Irvin Schnell, Tom Steinkamp, Barry Strang, Bob Subbert and Jon Woizeschke.

Sidney Allen, the son of Merle and Stella (Poe), was born on March 5, 1944 in Cherokee. He graduated from the Sutherland High School in 1962. He was united in marriage to Carol J. Olson on August 13, 1977 at Forest City. He lived in Mason City from 1968 until moving to Okoboji in 1984. Following his retirement from the Iowa Highway Patrol in 1989 after 23 years of service, they moved to Wahpeton. After his retirement, he worked at the Fisherman's Factory Outlet in Spirit Lake.

Sid was a member of the First Lutheran Church and the National Rifleman's Association. He enjoyed duck and goose hunting, fishing and model trains.

Sidney is survived by his wife, Carol; three children, Brent 17, Tani 12 and Ryan 9, all of Wahpeton; a brother, Tom (Jean) Willey of Spencer; mother-in-law, Dorothy Olson of Forest City; brothers-in-law, George Tippy of Storm Lake and Wayne (Kathy) Olson of Columbia, Maryland; sisters-in-law, Wendy (George) Feazell of New Hampton and Carmen (Dan) Riley of Waterloo; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Betty Tippy.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Muriel Solomonson, 91

Published November 26, 2003, Page B-7

Muriel Genor Solomonson, 91, of Lake Mills, died on Monday, November 17, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 19, at the North Prairie Lutheran Church in rural Lake Mills, with Rev. Randy Baldwin officiating. Burial was in the North Prairie Lutheran Cemetery, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Muriel Genor, the daughter of Ole J. and Letta (Larson) Sorenson, was born on January 30, 1912 in Silver Lake Township, Worth County. She was baptized at the Silver Lake Lutheran Church in rural Northwood. She spent her childhood years growing up in Worth County. She then worked at various locations in Winnebago, Worth and Freeborn Counties and at the Grand Cafe in Lake Mills.

On February 19, 1939, she was united in marriage to Ole O. Solomonson in her parents' home in rural Worth County. Together they farmed for many years until Ole passed away on January 28, 1965. After Ole's death, she moved to Lake Mills and worked for Larson Manufacturing until retirement at age 67. In 2001, she entered the Lake Mills Care Center where she had resided until recent illness required her to go to the hospital and then transfer to the Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City.

Muriel loved her family and treasured the times she spent with them. She also enjoyed her African Violets and her flower gardens.

Muriel is survived by her daughters, Marcene and her husband, Richard Asleson of Rogers, Minnesota and LaDonna and her husband, Curtis Flugum of Forest City; grandchildren, Kari and her husband, Richard Skloot, Kristi and her husband, Michael Upah, Kandi and her husband, David Brittain, Michael Flugum, Wesley Asleson and his wife, Shannon and Daniel Asleson; great-grandsons, Luke Brittain, Mason Skloot, Jack Brittain and Alex Upah; and one brother, Richard Sorenson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ole O.; brothers, Arnold, Juell, Szymour and Orten Sorenson; and sister, Violet Sorenson.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Ruth Hickok, 91

Published December 3, 2003, Page B-5

Ruth Hickok, 91, died on Sunday, November 21, 2003, of natural causes. She was a resident at the Titonka Care Center.

Born in New York City in 1912 to Norwegian immigrants, the former Agnes B. Anderson was placed by her mother in an orphanage for Norwegian children, The Brooklyn Nursery & Infants Hospital, after the family was abandoned by her father. She was 22 months old. Ruth never found out what happened to her younger sister Evelyn, a major disappointment in her life, JoAnn Hickok said. In October 1917, Ruth was placed on an orphan train heading west. She was chosen by an elderly couple when the train stopped at Forest City, Iowa. Because she couldn't stop crying, the elderly woman decided to punish the 5-year-old Ruth by locking her in the cellar, where she sat clinging to the steps in the dark and crying. The following day, Ruth was taken in by another couple, Ted and Natalie Jensen of Forest City, who adopted her and renamed her Ruth. She had three adoptive brothers.

Although the family was good to her, Ruth did not like her new name. "Even in the later years, she said that Agnes was her name," JoAnn Hickok said. Ostracized by the other children at school, Ruth turned to religion for comfort. In 1931, she married Orville Hickok of Hayfield, an employee of the Rock Island Railroad. They had two children, Jerry and Carolyn. When Orville retired from the railroad in 1952, the couple moved to Buffalo Center and took up farming. They retired from the farm in 1972. Orville Hickok died in 1991.

Ruth Hickok never forgot the orphan train that brought her to North Iowa as a child in 1917. "I think the orphan train shaped her whole life," daughter-in-law, JoAnn Hickok of Des Moines said Tuesday. "It was a terrible experience for her" A staunch Methodist, Ruth always took great pride in her orphan train experience, JoAnn Hickok said. She presented programs about it to more than 50 schools and various groups. "She wanted people to know about the orphan trains," Hickok said. "She didn't want it ever to happen again."
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Signe B. Gran, 94

Published December 3, 2003, Page B-5

Signe B. Gran, died on Saturday, November 22, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 26, at the Scarville Evangelical Synod Lutheran Church in Scarville, with Rev. Thomas Rank officiating. Burial was in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Scarville, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home, Lake Mills, in charge of the arrangements.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Velva L. Potter, 67

Published December 3, 2003, Page B-5

Velva L. Potter, 67, of Coralville, died on Sunday, November 23, 2003 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics following a lengthy illness.

Funeral services to celebrate her life were held on Saturday, November 29, at the St. Mark's United Methodist Church, Iowa City, with the Rev. Harlan Gillespie officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Coralville.

Velva was born on June 13, 1936 in Des Moines, the daughter of Claude and Esther Hickman Osborn. She was united in marriage to William Potter on March 11, 1956 in Adair. Velva was raised in Guthrie County and graduated from the Adair-Casey High School and had attended the University of Wisconsin. She and her family moved to Iowa City in 1960 and to Coralville, 1961, where she received a paralegal degree from Kirkwood. She had been employed at the Veterans Administration Medical Center, where she was a telephone operator and later the schedule clerk in the operating room. Velva was a state certified child care provider and had cared for many children in the Coralville-Iowa City area.

Velva was a member of the St. Marks Methodist Church, Walter Johnson Post 721 American Legion Auxiliary for 45 years and had served on the Handicare Daycare Board. She was a published author and poet who enjoyed writing children's short stories. Her love for children was an important part of her life. Velva collected pig figurines and created stained glass artwork.

Velva is survived by her husband, William of Coralville; three sons, Tom Potter and his wife, Melissa of Pamell, Robert Potter and his wife, Lauren of Las Vegas, Nevada and Toby Potter of Dallas, Texas; three grandchildren, Travis, Rachel and Abigail; and two sisters, Evelyn Hocamp of Marengo and Twila Garside and her husband, Lee of Adair.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister, Lois.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Michael Laudert, 62

Published December 17, 2003, Page B-5

Michael Laudert, 62, of Bigfork, Minnesota, died on Sunday, November 23, 2003, at the St. Joseph's Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 26, at the Bigfork Lutheran Church, with Pastor Vicki Taylor officiating. Arrangements were conducted by the Carroll Funeral Home, Deer River, Minnesota.

Michael Stephan, the son of Earl and Muriel (Larabee) Laudert, was born on July 21, 1941 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Michael graduated from the Fridley High School in 1959 and upon graduation entered the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged in 1962. While working in the electronics field from 1962 to 1975, he attended Brown Institute graduating in 1967. From 1975 until 1990, he worked in the law enforcement field in Minnesota and Montana, including as Chief of Police in Sanborn, Minnesota. Mike was united in marriage to Laurel Ann Osnes on March 14, 1981 in Minneapolis. He retired from law enforcement in 1991.

Following a liver transplant in 1991, Mike continued to enjoy life's many journeys and destinations. In 1999, Mike and Laurel moved to Bigfork, where he enjoyed many outdoor activities including hunting, camping, fishing and collecting agates along the Yellowstone River in Montana. Other interests included his pets, photography, gun collecting and self-defense. He was a Harley Davidson motorcycle enthusiast and proud owner of several Harleys over his lifetime. Mike was a member of the Bigfork Lutheran Church, Bigfork Lions Club and various law enforcement associations.

Survivors include his wife, Laurel; brother, Mark of Grand Rapids, Minnesota; sisters, Roberta Vernon (Wayne Davis) of Mora, Minnesota, Kimberly Laudert of Minneapolis and Michele (Jim) Schramm of St. Anthony, Minnesota; daughters, Angie Glass of Emily, Minnesota and Brenda Glass of Crosslake, Minnesota; grandchildren, Jerome and Zara; parents-in-law, Russ and Ardelle Osnes of Forest City; brothers-in-law, Russ Osnes of Eagan, Minnesota and Jeff (Carol) Osnes of Minneapolis; sister-in-law, Libby (Scott) Erie of Monterey, California; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Brian.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

John Brones, 68

Published December 3, 2003, Page B-5

John N. Brones, age 68, of Mason City, Iowa, died on Tuesday, November 25, 2003, at his home in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 3, at 1:30 p.m., at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Lee Laaveg officiating. Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Forest City. Visitation will be two hours prior to the services at the church. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City is in charge of the arrangements.

John Nelson Brones, the son of Alfred G. and Ida (Bartleson) Brones, was born on November 13, 1935, on a farm northeast of Forest City. He attended country schools near Forest City and St. Ansgar. John graduated from the Charles City High School in 1954. He served his country during the Korean Conflict in the U.S. Army being stationed in Germany. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Charles City where he was employed at Oliver-White. He was married to Rosemary Pagel. The couple lived in Cannon Falls, Minnesota. For the past two years he lived in Mason City.

He enjoyed tractors and woodworking. He was a member of SIG (Singles in Agriculture).

John is survived by three brothers and a sister, George Brones and wife, Norma of Denver, Colorado, Donald Brones and wife, Laura of Denver, Colorado, Charlotte Thorland-Oulman and husband, Dick of Thompson and Allen Brones and wife, Billie of Arvada, Colorado; seven step-children; 15 step-grandchildren; two aunts, Eva and Carrie Bartleson, both of Forest City; a brother-in-law, Merle Hendrickson of Mason City; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Edith Rausch and her husband, Bob and Geneva Hendrickson.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Gena Schaaf, 84

Published December 10, 2003, Page B-5

Gena Ross-Schaaf, age 84, formerly of Forest City, died on Thursday, November 27, 2003, in Santa Maria, California.

Funeral services were held on Friday, December 5, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Lee Laaveg officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery in Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Gena Schaaf, was born on September 16, 1919 in Forest City, the daughter of Olaf and Anna (Void) Bartleson. She was baptized and confirmed at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. She graduated from the Forest City High School and attended Waldorf College. In 1940, Gena married William Anderson. They had three daughters. In 1959, Gena married Walter Ross. Walter died in 1974. In September 2000, Gena married George Schaaf at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. The couple made their home in Santa Maria, California. Gena worked for the General Telephone Company in both Kentucky and California, then worked for Biola College in LaMirada, California. She later worked at Georgetown College in Kentucky and after that for the Purex Corporation in Long Beach, California.

She traveled extensively throughout Europe. Wherever she lived she was always active in her church and Bible Study groups. She was a member of the Faith Presbyterian Church while living in Long Beach and the Star of Bethlehem Church while in Santa Maria. She was a member of the Long Beach Music Club for 20 years while living there. She was also very active in the Republican Party. Church and family were very important to Gena.

She is survived by her husband, George of Santa Maria; daughter, Amie Palmer of Sheridan, Wyoming; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Carrie Flesche of Long Beach, California, Olga Kaylor and husband, Adrain of Charleston, Arkansas and Margaret Madsen of Forest City; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter; daughters, Rebecca Sue who died as an infant and Billee Jeanne; sisters, Myrtle Northrup and Clara Wittmer; and brothers, Paul, Arthur and Donald.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Karen Twedt, 48

Published December 3, 2003, Page B-5

Karen Sue Twedt, 48, of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, died on Friday, November 28, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, December 1, at the Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills, with Rev. Kevin Mackey officiating. Burial was in the Salem Memorial Cemetery in Lake Mills, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Karen Sue Twedt, was born on September 26, 1955 in Blue Earth, Minnesota, the daughter of Erling and Helen (McAmis) Twedt. Karen graduated with the Lake Mills High School "Class of 1974" and later received her Nursing Degree in 1977, from the Rochester Community College. She was a member of the Nativity Lutheran Church in St. Anthony Falls, Minnesota. She had worked as a nurse for many years until illness made it impossible to continue.

Karen liked to travel, cross stitch, was a member of a sewing club, loved jewelry, shopping, watching movies, collecting "Precious Moments", but most of all she loved her family, that included her two kittens, Ole and Lena. Karen liked everyone and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

She is survived by her loving parents, Erling and Helen Twedt of Lake Mills; brothers, Joel and his wife, Carol Twedt of Lake Mills, Edwin Twedt of Ames, James and his wife, Penny Twedt of Urbandale; one nephew, Matthew Twedt; four nieces, Lesley Twedt, Emily, Betsy and Katie Twedt; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and a host of friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her grandparents.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Stanley Ellwood, 77

Published December 3, 2003, Page B-5

Stanley K. Ellwood, 77, of Forest City, died on Friday, November 28, 2003, at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, December 2, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Lee Laaveg officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery in Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Stanley Kermit Ellwood, was born on June 3, 1926, on a farm near Radcliffe, Iowa, to Gustav and Torina (Olson) Ellwood. He was the fifth of six children whose mother died when Stanley was 2½ years old. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith at Ellsworth. He graduated from the Ellsworth High School in 1943. He then worked for area farmers. Stanley was united in marriage to Ardis Mostrom on December 28, 1950, at the Elk Creek Lutheran Church in Kensett. The couple made their home on a farm in Story County for the first five years of their marriage.

Stanley was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1956. This necessitated his retirement and the family's move to Forest City in January of 1957. On March 20, 1978, Stanley entered the Good Samaritan Center where he lived until his passing.

He is survived by his wife, Ardis; four daughters, Jane (Jerry) Askeland of Mason City, Julie (Bob) Winberg of Andover, Minnesota, Janet (Patrick) Cannon of Eden Prairie, Minnesota and Joan (Dave) Hickman of Mason City; and their children, Erik and Bret Askeland, Rob and Paul Winberg, Kevin, Sean and Molly Cannon and Kristen and Matt Hickman; brothers, Reuben of Ellsworth and Richard (Doris) of Radcliffe and Sun City, Arizona; and sisters, Trudy O'Dell of Yucaipa, California and Mildred (Tony) Angello of Victorville, California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Hazel Hahner.
© 2003 Forest City Summit

Gary Lovik, 68

Published December 17, 2003, Page B-5

Gary Lovik, 68, of Rosemount, Minnesota, died on Saturday, November 29, 2003.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, December 3, at the White Funeral Home in Apple Valley, Minnesota. A visitation was held at the Kerr Bothers Funeral Home in Lexington, Kentucky, with interment with military honors at the Camp Nelson National Cemetery near Nicholasville, Kentucky on December 5.

Gary E., the son of Harry and Maccine Lovik, was born on June 30, 1935 in Mason City. He received his elementary education in rural schools and graduated from the Thompson High School in 1952. He served in the military for most of his life and retired as a major from the National Guard. He ended his government work as a civilian working for the military in procurement in Huntsville, Alabama.

Survivors include his children, Barbara (David) Dusbabek of Faribault, Minnesota, Tom (Kim) Lovik of Wishek, North Dakota and Linda (Shaun) Warburton of Rosemount, Minnesota; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his mother, Maccine Lovik a resident of the Lake Mills Care Center; a sister, Kathryn (Donald) Olson of Forest City; a brother, Ronald (Jill) Lovik of Birmingham, Alabama; a niece and three nephews; as well as many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harry Lovik; his first wife and mother of his children, Margaret Arnold Lovik; and more recently in Lexington, Kentucky his wife, Helen Davis Lovik.
© 2003 Forest City Summit