Mark R. Boulton, 52

Published August 11, 2004, Page B-6

Mark R. Boulton, 52, died on Sunday, August 1, 2004, at Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City, after a courageous battle with leukemia.

Memorial services were held on Wednesday, August 4, at the Ward-Van S1yke Colonial Chapel in Clear Lake, with Rev. Thomas Healey officiating. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

Mark Randall, the son of Max Richard Boulton Sr. and Maxine Rose (Monson) Sears, was born on October 30, 1951 at Forest City. Mark graduated from the Clear Lake High School in 1970. He was a foreign exchange student in high school to Bogotá, Columbia. After high school he attended Iowa State University for two years majoring in engineering where he was a thespian participating in drama. He worked for the General Electric Telephone Company in Forest City, later transferring to Oxford and ending in Michigan where he resided for many years. Mark started doing construction work independently specializing in roofing, gutters and siding. In 2002, he moved back to Iowa when he was diagnosed with leukemia and to be closer to his family.

He belonged to ROTC in Ames and was a member of the CB Club known as "Cable Cutter". He was a volunteer fireman for the Forest City Fire Department. He loved to sing karaoke and play guitar, fish, camping and anything to do outdoors. His greatest love was his family.

He is survived by significant other, Doris Franzen of Rock Falls; three daughters, Candice Sue Boulton of South Korea, Crystal Marie Boulton of Kansas City, Kansas and Cassandra Jean Boulton of Woodward; one son, Randall Dean Boulton-Sougstad of Forest City; brothers and sisters, Michael Richard Boulton of Waco, Texas, Marsha Rose Thayer of Clear Lake, Matthew Roger Boulton of Gardner, Kansas, Max Richard Sr. and his wife, Hyeon Ju Boulton of Seoul, South Korea, Merry Rebecca Boulton-Trosper and her husband, William of Rock Falls; step-father, Rancher Sears of Clear Lake; Linda Ann Boulton of Wayland; very special four legged friend, Divot; along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by grandparents; parents; brother, Martin "Marty" Ralph Boulton; and sister-in-law, Dolores Moore.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Violet V. Buns, 82

Published August 11, 2004, Page B-6

Violet V. Buns, 82, died on Monday, August 2, 2004, at the Westview Care Center, Britt.

Memorial services were held on Friday, August 6, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Woden, with the Rev. Arlen Lloyd officiating.  Music was provided by organist, Emogene Kurtzleben who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and congregational hymns. Ushers were Tony Buns and Maurice Buns. Honorary bearers were Carmen Fjetland, Vi Korte, Marjory Squier, Alvina Brandt, Thresa Baade and Nodia Jumpp. Internment was in the Bingham Township Cemetery, south of Woden. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Violet Virginia, the daughter of Olaf and Anna (Paulsen) Wieth, was born on April 26, 1922 at Omaha, Nebraska. At an early age she moved with her family to Crystal Lake, where she attended school. Following her schooling she moved to Iowa City where she worked as a nurse’s aid. On June 30, 1943, she was married to Henry Buns. They lived in Woden where she was employed for almost 30 years as a store clerk at the Woden Grocery Store.

Violet enjoyed her family, reading and gardening. She was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church and the Ladies Aid.

She is survived by her four children, Diane Fortner and husband, Bill of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Jackie Fredrickson and husband, Larry of Forest City, Betty Hanna and husband, Steve of Crystal Lake and Lannie Buns of Woden; ten grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandson; two sisters-in-law, Martha Thieben of Woden and Caroline Cordes and husband, Albert of Britt; and many nieces and nephews.

Violet was preceded in death by her husband, Henry in November 1967; her parents; three grandchildren; and two sisters, Vivian Fischer and Carmen Nail.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Debra M. Martin, 50

Published August 11, 2004, Page B-6

Debra M. Martin, 50, of Forest City, died on Wednesday, August 4, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, August 7, at the First Baptist Church in Forest City, with the Rev. Edward Bard, Hospice Chaplain officiating. The Cataldo Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Debra May, the daughter of Travis and Lauralie (Packer) Walker, was born on November 18, 1953 in Chicago, Illinois. Debra grew up in Iowa and graduated from the Rockwell Swaledale High School. On April 25, 1978, she was married to Eldon Martin at Trying, Texas. Debra was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

Debra enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest. She loved writing poetry and short stories. She also enjoyed cooking. Debra's greatest joy came from being with her husband and children. She considered her grandchildren to be the greatest blessing in her life. She was an amazing, loving and caring woman who will be missed deeply by all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

She is survived by her husband, Eldon of Forest City; three daughters, Tina Martin of Forest City, Angella Russell of Forest City and Brenda (Steven) Sinclair of Forest City; nine grandchildren; her father, Travis (Mary) Walker of Dyersburg, Tennessee; six sisters, Lynda (Ralph) Mugan of Kilgore, Texas, Tammy Mugan of Hampton, Sherry Dietz of Texas, Gail Brookfelt of California, Anita Ward of Dyersburg, Tennessee and Amy Hill of Dyersburg, Tennessee.

She was preceded in death by her mother; grandparents; and her sister, Patty Ahmed.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Sandra L. Sleper 61

Published August 11, 2004, Page B-6

Sandra Lee Sleper, 61, of Titonka, died on Thursday, August 5, 2004.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, August 8, at the Bethany Evangelical and Reformed Church in Ledyard, with Rev. Victor Vriesen officiating. Burial was in the Highland Home Cemetery in Ledyard, with the Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Sandra Lee Sleper, was born in Ledyard on January 20, 1943, the daughter of Ervin and Doris Johnson. She graduated from the Ledyard High School in 1961 and then attended business school in Omaha, Nebraska. She was united in marriage to Eldean Maschoff on August 24, 1963, in Ledyard and with him had two children. The couple lived in Minnesota for several years before moving to Crystal Lake in 1973. Sandy then married Russel Sleper on July 28, 1984, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Russel and Sandy lived on a farm near Titonka.

She was a member of the Bethany Evangelical and Reformed Church in Ledyard. Athletics were an important part of Sandy's life. She excelled in high school softball and basketball and continued playing women's softball for many years. She was an excellent bowler and later showed her abilities on the golf course as well. She was Mike and Lisa's number one fan at sporting events and other activities, as well as those of her father, brothers, nieces, nephews and grandchildren. College basketball and golf were her TV favorites. With Russ, she shared her love for old time music and dancing, horseback riding, golfing, playing cards, the Iowa Hawkeyes, vacationing in Biloxi, Mississippi and spending time with friends. She enjoyed her Sunday evenings, having taco pizza with Russ and friends in Blue Earth.

Sandy was an excellent cook and known for her delicious desserts. Her favorite books were cookbooks and a hobby was clipping tasty recipes from magazines. We will especially miss her roast, mashed potatoes, bacon, homemade pizza, tapioca pudding, homemade bread and banana cream pie.

Manufacturer's Bank and Trust in Forest City was Sandy's second home for the past 31 years and she last held the position of Director of Customer Banking Services. She was a dedicated employee who considered it so much more than a job. She very much loved her MBT "family" and customers. Above all, what Sandy cherished most was time spent with her family. Her energy for her grandchildren was amazing and she played a big part in how terrific they are today.

Sandy enjoyed excellent health until she was suddenly diagnosed with aggressive incurable brain cancer in December 2003. In recent months she took several trips with family to Arizona, Virginia and New York City. She amazed others with her strength, spirit and good humor, and never wavered in her love for Dairy Queen ice cream and caramel corn.

Sandy is survived by her husband, Russel Sleper of Titonka; her two children, Mike Maschoff and wife, DeAnn and Lisa Escherich and husband, Brian, all of Ankeny; four brothers, Steve Johnson and wife, Kathy of Mesa, Arizona, Ron Johnson and wife, Denise of Bedford, Virginia, Bill Johnson and wife, Sandy of Armstrong and Gary Johnson of Fairmont, Minnesota; and eight grandchildren.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Gladys M. Woodwick, 81

Published August 11, 2004, Page B-6

Gladys Maxine Woodwick, 81, of Rake, died on Thursday, August 5, 2004, at her home in Rake.

Funeral services were held on Monday, August 9, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Rake, with Rev. Larry Rehlander officiating. Burial was in the Olena Mound Cemetery in Buffalo Center, with the Winter Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Gladys Maxine (Geerdes) Woodwick, the daughter of Matthew and Grace (Harringa) Geerdeswas, was born on March 27, 1923, in a farmhouse four miles south of Germania (Lakota). She spent most of her childhood there. Gladys was baptized and confirmed at the Ramsey Reformed Church in rural Titonka. She received her education in rural country schools through the eighth grade. Gladys left home at age 15 to work as a hired girl at over fifty homes over the years. She worked very hard cooking, cleaning, doing laundry and chores, and taking care of children in all of the homes. She also worked at Van's Cafe in Algona and at the cafe in Rake for Inger and Ed Sunde. Gladys was united in marriage to Leonard Woodwick on September 7, 1959 at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Lakota.

She will be missed for her kind and loving spirit and for her strong faith, which carried her through the trials of life.

She is survived by three daughters, Joyce and husband, Dennis Tweeten of Rake, Connie and husband, Dennis Clay of Blue Earth, Minnesota and Sandra Woodwick of Spirit Lake; her son, Greg Geerdes of Rake; her grandchildren, Jackie Bromeland of Mankato, Minnesota, Elias Bromeland of Freeborn, Minnesota, Ben Bromeland of Rake, Jesse Clay of Mankato, Minnesota, Laura Clay of Spirit Lake and Amy Grace Clay of Blue Earth, Minnesota; her great-granddaughter, Hannah Aasum of Mankato, Minnesota; her sister, Velma and husband, Bill Gerdes of Woden; her brother, Dwayne Geerdes of Rake; as well as many special nieces, nephews, cousins and a special friend and neighbor, Doris Erickson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Maynard.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Viola Laaveg, 85

Published August 11, 2004, Page B-6

Viola M. Laaveg, 85, of Mason City, died suddenly on Friday, August 6, 2004, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, August 10, at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Belmond, with Rev. Rod Hopp officiating. Burial was in the Belmond Cemetery, with the Major Erickson Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the Hospice of North Iowa or to the Radio Bible Class Ministries.

Viola, the daughter of Olaf and Lena Larson, was born on the family Happy Home Farm near Park River, North Dakota, on December 13, 1918. Viola was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith at the Zion Lutheran Church in rural Hoople, North Dakota. She was raised on the North Dakota prairie and graduated from the Walsh County Agriculture and Training High School in 1935. She attended business school and worked as a secretary. She also attended the Moody Evangelical Bible School in Chicago.

Viola was united in marriage to Oscar Laaveg on September 11, 1943. After his ordination, she was a Lutheran pastor's wife and homemaker, until retiring to Belmond in 1982. They served parishes in Kindred, North Dakota, Canton, South Dakota, Rapid City, South Dakota, Helmar, Illinois, Camrose, Alberta Canada, Belmond, Cylinder and Fertile. She has lived in Mason City the last five years.

Viola loved growing flowers, music, poetry, reading, cooking, sewing and being a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was active in her church, Christian prayer groups and loved her family interaction. She had a deeply held Christian faith.

Left to cherish her memory are sons, Dr. Sterling Laaveg and wife, Rita (Dorr) of Mason City, Paul Laaveg and wife, Nancy (Coffman) of Purcellville, Virginia, Joel Laaveg and wife, Gina (Sundry) of Clear Lake, Pastor Lee Laaveg and wife, Denise (Helland) of Forest City; grandchildren, Aaron, Nicole Lozier and husband, John, Lisa Berg and husband, Jeff, Jacob, Philip, Dan, Jessica, Andrea Miner and husband, Seth, Heather and Luke; great-grandson, Robert Berg; and sister, Pearl Loftsgard and husband, Eugene of Park River, North Dakota.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar; parents; brothers, Ernest, Norman and Harry; and sister, Myrtle Berg.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Corma K. Leach, 88

Published August 11, 2004, Page B-6

Corma K. Leach, 88, of Forest City, died on Friday, August 6, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, August 9, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Barb Spaulding officiating. Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery in Forest City. The Petersen Lund Funeral Home was in charge of the the arrangements.

Corma Kathryn Leach, was born on a farm in Mt. Valley Township, Winnebago County, on January 13, 1916, the daughter of Bent and Linda (Monson) Thompson. Bent came from Norway at the age of 19 and Linda's parents also came from Norway. Corma was baptized and attended the Winnebago Lutheran Church, where she was confirmed in Norwegian. She attended the Forest City High School. On June 6, 1931, she was united in marriage to Fred G. Leach. The couple resided on several farms in the Forest City area for 50 years. Corma was widowed in 1981 and happily resided at the Vens Heim Apartments since 1987. She later lived for a time in the Town Square Apartments until moving to Forest Plaza Assisted Living. Corma was a full time homemaker.

She loved to bake and cook and share it with friends and relatives and shut-ins, especially relatives at the Good Samaritan Center.

Her legacy is her family who will remember her faith and love for each of them, daughter, Arlys Hopkins and husband, John; son-in-law, Eldean Borg; seven grandchildren; and sixteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; son, Luverne; daughters, Marlene and Linda Borg; brothers, Maynard and Truman; and sisters, Leona Shupe and Beulah Riekena.

The family requests memorials to be directed to the Good Samaritan Center, Immanuel Lutheran Church or Hospice of North Iowa.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Jean Smidt, 65

Published August 18, 2004, Page B-6

Jean M. Smidt, 65, of Woden, died on Friday, August 6, 2004, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 11, at the Woden Christian Reformed Church, with Rev. Kevin Jordan officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery, with the Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden in charge of the arrangements.

Jean Marie Smidt, the daughter of Edwin and Gertie (McNeil) Hillenga and Erna (Iverson) Hillenga, the only mother she knew and loved, was born on January 26, 1939 at Algona. Jean made her profession of faith at the Woden Christian Reformed Church. She attended the rural schools of Orthel Township in Hancock County and graduated from the Britt High School in 1956. She continued her education at Dordt College. On August 8, 1958, Jean was united in marriage to John Smidt at the Woden Christian Reformed Church. They lived on a farm north of Woden until 1964 when they moved to a farm near Burt. In 1988, they moved into Woden and continued farming. Due to ill health she became a resident of the Westview Care Center in Britt in 2000.

Jean enjoyed her family, designing and making cakes, reading and doing crossword puzzles. She was a member of the Woden Christian Reformed Church where she taught Bible School.

Jean is survived by her husband, John of Woden; her mother, Erna Hillenga of Woden; two children, Deanna (Mike) Taylor of Cherokee and Alan (Teresa) Smidt of Forest City; eleven grandchildren, Mandy, Trish and Jordan Taylor and Ryan, Sandi, Julianne, Tyler, Kyle, Emily, Allison and Nathan Smidt; five brothers and sisters, Kay Hunter of Cedar, Minnesota, Doris (Dean) Haugland of Forest City, Edwin (Vicki) Hillenga of Wesley, Carol Clendenen of Auto, West Virginia and Dean (Suzanne) Hillenga of Hobbs, New Mexico; a sister-in-law, Grace Barnes of Iowa City; a brother-in-law, Warren (Bev) Smidt of Clayton, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her stillborn son; her father; and her mother, Gertie.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Paul Spangler, 73

Published August 18, 2004, Page B-6

Paul E. Spangler, 73, of Britt, died on Saturday, August 7, 2004, at the Westview Care Center, Britt, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, August 10, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Britt, with the Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. The Ewing Dugger Funeral Home in Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Paul Eugene Spangler, the son of William B. and Glenne Sheridan Spangler, was born on December 29, 1930 in Britt. Paul was a 1950 graduate of the Britt High School. He graduated from the Mason City Jr. College in 1956. Paul was united in marriage with Patsy Pierce on April 24, 1954, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Clear Lake. The couple made their home in Britt for 46 years, where they raised their five children. Paul was employed at Pritchard Auto in Britt as a salesman until health forced him to retire in 1980.

He was a member of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt. Paul loved and was passionate about his family and friends. He loved to socialize and joke. No one could tell a story quite like Paul. He loved God and the Catholic faith. He will be greatly missed.

Paul is survived by his wife, Patricia of Britt; five children, Margaret Herman of Mason City, Lisa Smidt and her husband, Paul of Kanawha, David Spangler and his wife, Julie of Kanawha, Caroline Andersen and her husband, Reggie of Forest City and Stephanie Specht and her husband, Chris of Yankton, South Dakota; twelve grandchildren, Danielle and Nicholas Herman, Doug Smidt, Jody and her husband, Matthew Clemens and Renee Smidt, Rebecca, Melinda and Matthew Spangler, Brian and Joe Andersen, Taylor and Whitney Specht; brother, Ronald Spangler and his wife, Bette of Mission Viejo, California; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Evelyn Long, Doloris Kayser and Patricia A. Spangler; and one brother, William Spangler.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Harvey LaBounty, 78

Published August 18, 2004, Page B-6

Harvey J. LaBounty, 78, Humboldt, formerly of Britt, died on Sunday, August 8, 2004, at the Long-Term Care Unit of the Humboldt County Memorial Hospital in Humboldt.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 11, at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Humboldt, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. William Schreiber officiated with the Mason-Lindhart Funeral Home of Humboldt in charge the arrangements. Military graveside rites were conducted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5240 of Dakota City.

Harvey Jerome LaBounty, son of David Jerome and Emma (Faust) LaBounty, was born on July 2, 1926, on a farm in northern Iowa. He attended grade school at Erin No. 8 and No. 9 and graduated from the Britt High School in 1943. He enlisted in the United States Navy in December of 1944 and served on the aircraft carrier USS Barnes during World War II as a radioman in the Pacific Theater. Following his discharge from the Navy, he returned home and attended Drake University in Des Moines.

In May of 1949, he was united in marriage to Doris Darrah of Kanawha. After his graduation from Drake, he taught school in Ute from 1949 until 1956. In 1956, the couple made their home in Humboldt, where he worked as a fieldman for Farm Bureau until 1960. He returned to teaching, first in Gilmore City from 1960 until 1970 and then in Humboldt, from 1970 until his retirement in May of 1988.

He was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Iowa State Education Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

Survivors include his wife, Doris of Humboldt; sons and daughters-in-law, Larry and Christine of Overland Park, Kansas and Randy and Janelle of Wildwood, Missouri; daughters, Becky of Cedarburg, Wisconsin and Renee of Palm Desert, California; nine grandchildren; and a sister, Marjorie Larson of Kanawha.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Ann Christensen, 94

Published August 18, 2004, Page B-6

Ann A. Christensen, 94, died on Friday, August 13, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, August 17, at the First Presbyterian Church in Woden, with Judy Junkermeier Lay Pastor, officiating. Music was provided by organist, Doris Leeck who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and congregational hymns. Usher was Lamont Junkermeier. Casket bearers were Don Isebrand, Roger Wood, Bob Lorenzen, Don Weiland, Marlin Cromwell, Paul Gerdes, Ron Dahle and Everett Brock. Burial was in the Bingham Township Cemetery, south of Woden, with the Cataldo Funeral Home of Woden in charge of the arrangements.

Ann Angeline, the daughter of John and Johanna (Meenk) Hoftiezer was born on May 16, 1910 at Castlewood, South Dakota. Ann was baptized and confirmed, learning both the German and English Catechism, at the Bemis Presbyterian Church in rural Castlewood. She started country school near Castlewood at the age of 4 to learn the English language. Ann came to Iowa in 1930, where she met her future husband, Charles Christensen. They were married on November 14, 1934, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. She worked at Schelfbein Grocery for two years, Orthel Grocery Store for 10 years and was clerk at the Woden Post Office from 1950 to 1972. Ann and Charlie lived their entire married life in Woden.

Ann was known to so many as Mother Ann and Grandma Ann. She was always ready and willing to help whenever and wherever she was needed. Ann enjoyed her grandson, his wife, her great-grandchildren, her church and community and, most of all, helping other people. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Woden, where she was the first woman elder in the church and was active as a Sunday School teacher, Superintendent and was past President and Secretary of the Presbyterian Women. Ann was also the Clerk of Session of the Woden Presbyterian Church for 23 years and was honored as outstanding elder of the church.

She belonged to the Woden Ladies Auxiliary serving as past president, Woden senior citizens being named Outstanding Senior Citizen in 1984 and was a Gold Star Mother. Ann was one of the organizers of the first Woden Public Library. She was voted Woden's centennial queen in July 1999 and was nominated and received the Giving Your Best Award sponsored by the local TV station and sponsors in the year 2000.

Ann is survived by her grandson, Dallas Christensen and wife, Deannai and their children, Jessica, Michelle and Jacob all of Britt; as well as many nieces, nephews and lots of friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie; parents; a son, Leon who was killed during World War II; son and daughter-in-law, Curtis and Barb; her brothers, Albert, Dick, Herman, John, Harry and Arey Hofteizer; and a sister, Jennie Lammers.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

DonnaLou Kester, 64

Published August 18, 2004, Page B-6

DonnaLou Kester, 64, died on Saturday, August 14, 2004.

Memorial services were held on Tuesday, August 17, at the St. Henry Catholic Church in Marshalltown, with a mid-afternoon burial and committal service in the Rose Hill Memorial Gardens.

DonnaLou, was born on October 13, 1939, the daughter of Melvin and Myrtle Peterson and was raised on a farm near Leland. She attended elementary school in Leland and graduated from the Forest City High School in 1957. DonnaLou received an AA Degree from the Eagle Grove Community College, a BA Degree from UNI and a MA Degree from Drake University. Her teaching career included positions at Shell Rock, Stacyville, St. Ansgar and Marshalltown. She spent the last six years partnering with her husband to develop the Cross Country Estates housing development.

DonnaLou was an active member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, where she was a Sunday School teacher and then a Sunday School Superintendent for many years. After retiring from 35 years of public school teaching, she served as a parish worker for Trinity Lutheran Church and was the author of email devotions for the past three years. She was a member of MEA, NEA, ISEA, Matins Kiwanis, ADK and enjoyed several bridge clubs. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and an awesome grandma who enjoyed her family, friends, golfing, traveling and quietly encouraging others in many different ways.

DonnaLou is survived by her husband of 46 years, Larry of Marshalltown; one daughter, Lori Manderfield and her husband, Jim of Urbandale; two sons, Dave and his wife, Julie of Urbandale and Dan and his wife, Lora of Marshalltown; nine grandchildren; two brothers, Roger Peterson of Lake Mills and Richard Peterson of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; two sisters, Marjorie VerHoef of Leland and Sharon Holland of Forest City; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Marvin "Bud".
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Pearl Palmateer, 95

Published August 25, 2004, Page B-5

Pearl Palmateer, 95, of Waterloo, died on Saturday, August 14, 2004, at the Alien Memorial Hospital in Waterloo.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, August 21, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City, with Timothy Coyer officiating. Burial was in the Clear Lake Cemetery in Clear Lake, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Pearl, the daughter of Orin A. and Cecelia (Halverson) Calhoun, was born in Clear Lake on October 21, 1908. At the age of six, her parents and sisters moved to her grandfather's farm (Halver Halverson farm) three miles west of Fertile, Iowa. Her first year of school was in Clear Lake. She received the balance of her education in the Fertile Schools, graduating from the Fertile Consolidated High School with the class of 1927. She was united in marriage with James Lloyd Palmateer on July 17, 1926. The couple moved to Rock Island, Illinois, where they lived for 13 years. Their daughter was born on October 21, 1936 in Rock Island. Mr. Palmateer's work took the family all over the country. In 1971, he retired and they moved to Salt Lake City, Utah.

They belonged to the Christ United Methodist Church and were very active. Except for a few years Pearl took off to care for her baby, Donna Lou, she worked for Montgomery Ward in Rock Island and for more than 13 years, for the J. M. Bostwick Department Store in Janesville, Wisconsin, as a buyer for the Drapery Department.

Pearl is survived by a brother-in-law, Milo Palmateer and wife, Emily; sister-in-law, Pauline (Calhoun) Anderson and husband, Archie; five nieces and a nephew, Evelyn (Clyde) Melick, Paula (Jim) Hansen, Patricia (Don) Haarstad, Orin (Pam) Calhoun, Pam (Rob) Coyer, Michele (Lee) Wright; and longtime family friend, Donna DeGray.

Pearl was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her daughter, Donna Lou; sisters, Hazel and Ora; and a brother, Floyd.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Leonard J. Rayhons

Published August 25, 2004, Page B-5

Leonard J. Rayhons, 82, of Garner, died on Sunday, August 15, 2004, at his rural home.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, August 19, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner, with the Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Lector was Shane Upmeyer. Music was provided by organist, Carolvn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Bob Krai and Lawrence Engstler. Honorary bearers were the Garner Lions Club and spouses. Casket bearers were Corey Upmeyer, Shane Upmeyer, Brian Cataldo, Brian Follmann, Jason Reis, Bob Malek, Scott Rayhons and Randy Rayhons. Burial was in the St. John's Catholic Cemetery, Duncan, with military rites by the Gamer Veterans Ceremonial Unit. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Leonard John, the son of John and Beatta (Wellik) Rayhons, was born on February 28, 1922 at Gamer. He attended the Garfield No. 5 Country School and helped his parents on the family farm northwest of Garner. On November 16, 1943, he married Emily Marie Tlach at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan. They made their home across from his parent's home where they farmed. He served his country during WW II in the U.S. Army as an automotive mechanic in the European Theatre. Following his honorable discharge on October 27, 1946, he returned home and continued to farm. Besides farming he also sold hybrid seed, did custom bailing and chopping and hauled feed and grain.

On May 8, 1978, his wife, Emily, passed away from cancer at the age of 52. On August 16, 1979, he married Alice (Rapp) Meints at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner. They lived on the home farm where Leonard farmed with his son, Marv.

Leonard enjoyed his family, visiting with people, playing cards, dancing and helping on the farm. He especially enjoyed dressing up each Christmas as Santa Claus for lots of little children. He was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner, Knights of Columbus 4th degree, St. Boniface Men's Society, Catholic Workman Lodge, Garner Lions Club and was a lifetime member of the Garner VFW and American Legion. Leonard was also a 4-H Leader, served on the ASC Committee and was a trustee for Garfield Township.

He is survived by his wife, Alice of Garner; two children, Marvin (Nancy) Rayhons of Garner and Jeanette (Alien) Upmeyer of Clinton; five grandchildren, Bonnie (Brian) Cataldo, Amy (Brian) Follmann, Cory (Jennifer) Upmeyer, Shane (Jennifer) Upmeyer and Darci (Jason) Reis; seven great-grandchildren, Sam, Ray and Reed Cataldo, Ethan and Abby Follmann, James and Joshua Upmeyer; three step-children, Roger Meints of San Diego, California, Dick (Sheryl) Meints of Meservey and Kathleen (Mike) Embertson of Mason City; two sisters, Rose Mae (Red) Baker of Garner and Darlene Oldham of Dubuque; a brother-in-law, George (Betty) Tlach of Garner; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by first wife, Emily; his parents; and two brothers-in-law, Darold Pletcher and Mike Oldham.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Norma C. Skogerboe, 92

Published September 1, 2004, Page B-5

Norma Skogerboe, 92, of Forest City, died on Saturday, August 21, 2004, at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Friday, August 27, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Lee Laaveg officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City.

Norma, the only child of James "Earl" and Frances (Guidinger) Stewart, was born on March 6, 1912 in Belle Fourche, South Dakota. Norma was baptized in the Catholic faith and confirmed at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Blue Earth, Minnesota on May 21, 1939. She was raised by her single mother, her Guidinger grandparents and her few aunts and uncles after her parents divorced when she was four years old. She lived her childhood years in the Black Hills area, attending elementary school in Beulah, Wyoming. She played girls basketball for the Sundance High School. Her winning team traveled to the State Tournament in Gillette, Wyoming, two at a time, via a small airplane. She graduated with honors receiving a special Teaching Certificate in the spring of 1930.

She was united in marriage with Obed Justin Skogerboe on August 12, 1930, in the Deadwood, South Dakota courthouse and returned to Obed's home near Blue Earth, Minnesota, where they ran Obed's mother's farm. Shortly after their oldest son, Rodney was born in 1931, they moved to Sundance, Wyoming and ranched several years before once again returning to Blue Earth, where they both took jobs with Schwan's Ice Cream Company. Her second son, "Chuck" and daughter, Zeida were born during that period of time.

Obed was hired as a foreman on Moore's Vegetable Farm and Norma worked alongside him whenever she could arrange for child care. In early 1940 the family moved to a farm west of Forest City and began their lifetime in farming. Norma became active in the community, including taking her turn driving their family car to bus her own and neighborhood children to school. Their youngest son, Dennis "Mike" was born in 1944.

Norma was an ambitious, hard working person who enjoyed being with people. Besides raising her family and assisting with the farming, she worked additional jobs in Forest City. She clerked for Pinckney Pharmacy, Federated Store, Forest City Bakery, Coast To Coast and also cooked for the Forest City Community School. Norma and Obed worked as a team to manage the Forest City Golf and Country Club for 12 years, then managed the Winnebago River Oaks Clubhouse for the next 10 years. Norma was a strong and caring role model for her family and friends. She had an outgoing friendly personality with an easy sense of humor and a contagious hearty laugh. She was known for her fantastic cooking ability and her signature pies. She enjoyed sewing for her daughter and granddaughters and crocheted beautiful keepsakes for her family. Norma seldom complained and never gave up when she was faced with her many challenging health issues. She and her husband Obed unselfishly opened their home to her mother who lived with them for 44 years. She sent annual Christmas and birthday cards and gifts to each of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren up until her last illness in 2004. Her quiet faith and determination helped her to survive the early death of several members of her beloved family.

Norma and Obed joined Immanuel Lutheran's "old" church in 1940. She was active in the women's groups and celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary in August 1980. She was a member of the Ellington Township Community Club, Winnebago County American Legion Auxiliary and the Kum Along Club. She enjoyed volunteering her time answering the telephone at the Good Samaritan Center and taking friends to their out of town doctor appointments. When Obed became critically ill in September 1980, they retired from farming and moved to Forest City. Norma lovingly provided attentive round the clock home care for her husband until his death in 1981. She moved into the Town Square Apartments and with courage continued her full active life. She moved to the Forest City Good Samaritan Center in July 2004 after receiving a serious injury from a fall.

She is survived by three of her children and spouses, 10 grandchildren and spouses and 25 great-grandchildren. They are Rodney and Ruth Skogerboe; Scott and Dianne Skogerboe, David, Paul and Jared; Karin and Alan Bright, Joseph and Jackson, all from Fort Collins, Colorado; Kristen and Rob Synovec, Thomas and Johanna of Seattle, Washington; Lauren Lindsay and Jamie Cecelia of Eustis, Florida; Andrea Lindsay of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Chuck and Susie Skogerboe and Jeffrey of Spirit Lake; Dirk and Roxanne Skogerboe and Danielle of Faribault, Minnesota; Jed and Eileen Skogerboe, Olivia, Elizabeth, and Nile of Spirit Lake; Mark and Jacci Skogerboe, Anna, Amy, T. J. and Jesse of Algona; Zeida and Richard W. Peterson, Julie and Roger Bisbey, Jessica, Paul, Erica and Scott, all of Rochester, Minnesota; Sallie and Tom Suby-Long, Rachel, Sarah, Rebecca of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Robb Suby and Russell Thompson of Johnston. Also surviving are seven step-grandchildren and spouses and 12 step-great-grandchildren. They include; Scott and Dolly Peterson; Lori and Archie Benike, Joseph and Ethan of Minneapolis, Minn.; Susan and Greg Spellacy, Aaron and Joshua; Thomas and Kelly Peterson, "Zander" and Riley of Mankato, Minnesota. Also, Christine Knippenberg, Eric and Leslie; Bill and Lecky Knippenberg, Andrew and Christopher; John and Jane Knippenberg, Peter and Ross; two brothers-in-law and their wives, Robert and Neibi Skogerboe of Merline, Oregon and Donald and Margie Skogerboe of Forest City; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Obed; son, "Mike" who was killed in Vietnam in 1969; infant granddaughter, Molly Ann Suby in 1964; infant great-grandson, Matthew Doney in 1989; son-in-law, Donald Suby in 1993; daughter-in-law, Wanda (Will) Skogerboe in 1993; sisters-in-law, Malinda Otis, Anna Christianson, Nora Keliveg and Selma Thompson; brothers-in-law, John, Palmer, Vemer and Reuben Skogerboe.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Francis Ouverson, 83

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Francis Ouverson, 83, of Hanlontown, died on Tuesday, August 31, 2004, at his home in rural Hanlontown.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 4, at the Church of Christ in Fertile, with Rev. Curt Gallmeyer and Dr. George Wilson officiating.

Francis John, the son of John and Elizabeth (Robison) Ouverson, was born on July 21, 1921 at Fertile He graduated from the Fertile High School and farmed with his father and brother in the Fertile area. On December 26, 1943, he was united in marriage with Olga Johnson at his parent's home in Fertile. They lived all of their married life in rural Hanlontown where they farmed.

Francis enjoyed his grandchildren, horses, fishing and gardening. His top priority was being a faithful follower of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and sharing his faith with others, especially his family. He was a member of the Harvest Time Church in Mason City.

Francis is survived by three children, Dr. Richard (Dr. Anna) Ouverson of Madison, South Dakota, Joyce (Leon) Hagen of Hanlontown and Craig Ouverson of Hanlontown; five grandchildren, John (Sara) Ouverson, Dr. William (Abbie) Ouverson, Christopher (Beth) Hagen, Eric Hagen and Michael Hagen; two great-grandchildren, Lydia Ouverson and Nicholas Ouverson; brother-in-law, Loris Scobee of Fertile; four sisters-in-law, Marian (Ralph) Mulder of Slayton, Minnesota, Evelyn Johnson of Mason City, Elvira (Russell) Olson of Cedar Rapids and Silence Johnson of Fertile; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Olga on December 9, 2002; brother, Alien Ouverson; and sisters, Mavis Hall and Maxine Scobee.
© 2004 Forest City Summit