John Appelhons, 89

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

John T. Appelhons, 89, of Thompson, died on Wednesday, September 1, 2004, at his home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 4, at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Thompson, with Pastor Mark Decker officiating. Military rites were held by the VFW Post 8408, Thompson and the VFW Post 6161, Leland. Burial was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Thompson, with the Winter Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

John Thomas, the son of John and Catherine (Kress) Appelhons, Sr., was born on November 2, 1914 at Chaska, Minnesota. The family moved to Britt on March 1, 1915. It was in Britt where John completed schooling including two semesters of law (correspondence) while working part time in a Britt law office and while farming with his father. John enlisted in the Iowa National Guard, 34th Infantry Division on January 14, 1941; he served in North Ireland, Scotland, North Africa and Italy. He received numerous decorations, including three Purple Hearts and a Silver Star for gallantry. On July 7, 1941, John was united in marriage with Emma L. Baker of Britt. They made their home near Camp Claiborne, Louisiana and then Fort Dix, New Jersey, prior to John being shipped overseas on February 26, 1942. Emma then returned to Britt.

Upon John's discharge from the service on September 19, 1945, the couple made their home east of Britt, farming there until moving to the Crystal Lake area in March of 1953. They finally settled at their present farm home in Thompson in March of 1956.

John was active in Hancock and Winnebago County Farm Bureaus, Thompson Community School Board and PTA, Cub Scouts, King Township ASCS Committee, Winnebago Co. Extension Council, Drainage District Trustee, American Legion Post #216, Life Member VFW Post 8408 in Thompson where he served as commander and service officer for 50 years, State VFW Chief of Staff for one year and past VFW District 10 Commander. John also served on the Winnebago Co. Fair Board for 25 years, the past 21 years as chairman and he had been the King Township Justice of the Peace in Thompson.

John and Emma retired from farming in the early 1970s and operated an upholstery business until the late 1990s. John was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church in Thompson, serving three years on the council and one year as treasurer. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending family events, reading, photography, gardening and coin collecting.

John is survived by his wife, Emma; two sons, Dennis Appelhons and his wife, Lois of Des Moines and David Appelhons of Emmetsburg; four granddaughters, Lori and husband, Brian, Lisa and husband, Brian, Beth and husband, Mike and Amanda; three great-grandsons, Cole, Aidan and Daniel; and one brother, Joe Appelhons and his wife, Donna of Britt.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five sisters, Katy, Elizabeth, Barbara, Mary and Irene; and one brother, Jake Appelhons.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Ethel M. Crail, 66

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Ethel Maurine Crail, 66, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, died on Thursday, September 2, 2004, at her home in Albert Lea, surrounded by her family.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, September 7, at the Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel in Mason City, with Rev. Dennis Ganz officiating. Graveside services were held in the East Lawn Cemetery, Algona.

Ethel Maurine, was born on February 16, 1938 at Colesburg, the daughter of Maurice and Mary Ethel (O'Neal) Smock. Maurine was a graduate of the Dubuque Senior High School, Dubuque. She worked at Collins Radio, Cedar Rapids, BrittTech, Britt and as a client development worker at North Central Human Services, Forest City, for several years. Most recently, she worked at Pete's Kitchen, Mason City. She was united in marriage to Gaylen Crail on May 6, 1961 at Cedar Rapids.

Maurine enjoyed embroidery, reading, crossword and jigsaw puzzles, and caring for her family.

Maurine is survived by three daughters, Gale (Dave) Moline of Dubuque, Cynthia Culbertson of Ft. Worth, Texas and Virginia (Brian) Hanson of Albert Lea, Minnesota; three sons, James (Barbara) Crail of Woodbridge, Virginia, Scott (Tabatha) Crail of Keene, Texas and William (Vicky) Crail of Mason City; 20 grandchildren, Tammi, Tim, Matthew, and McKenzie Decker; Stacey Dudgen; Stephanie, Amanda, and Daniel Culbertson; Melissa, Erica, and Nicholas Crail; Timothy and Cody Hanson; Jeremiah, Zechariah, Brandy and Autumn Crail; Brittany, Dylan and Anthony Crail; 10 great-grandchildren, Cassandra, Evan, Alexis, and Morgan Decker; Holli and Jacob Famum; Devon Crail; Averey and Olivia Dudgen, and Hayleigh Culbertson; one brother, Martin Smock of Anamosa; and special friend, David Graff.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gaylen; a brother, Jimmy Smock; a sister, Anna Mae Maag; and an uncle, Bud O’Neal.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Roger D. Johnson, 73

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Roger D. Johnson, 73, of Hayfield, died on Friday, September 3, 2004, at the Concord Care Center in Garner.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, September 7, at the Forest Evangelical Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Rev. Ted Gullixson officiating. Burial was in the Crystal Lake Cemetery in Crystal Lake, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Roger D. Johnson, was born on a farm in Winnebago County, near Lake Mills on August 19, 1931, the son of Wilford and Anna (Chose) Johnson. Roger was baptized and confirmed at the Center Lutheran Church near Scarville and received his education in a rural school near his home. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge from the service, he returned to Forest City and began working for Gjellefald Construction. On August 31, 1957, he married Janice Farrell in Gamer. The couple have made Hayfield their home since 1958. For 33 years Roger worked as a custodian for the Garner-Hayfield schools, retiring in 1993.

Roger enjoyed attending community events and parades all over North Iowa. He took great pride in caring for his vehicles and home and enjoyed gardening and lawn care. For years he would ride his bike to Forest City in the early morning to have biscuits and gravy with his friends at Hardee's. He was a member of the Forest Evangelical Lutheran Church in Forest City.

Roger is survived by his wife, Janice of Garner; two sons, Arlyn Johnson (Karrie) of Forest City and Joel Johnson (Wendy) of West Des Moines; five grandchildren, Alyssa, Kelsey, Christopher, Haiden and Grace; a great-granddaughter, Angeleah; two brothers, Arthur (Sophie) Johnson of Des Moines and Duane (Virginia) Johnson of Albert Lea, Minnesota; and a sister, Sharon Leegaard of Barrett, Minnesota.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Lon; brothers, Raymond, Oliver and David; and sisters, Evelyn Severson, Wilma Walkup and Helen Tschirki.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Keith P. Cottington, 87

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Keith Cottington, 87, of Crystal Lake, died on Saturday, September 4, 2004, at the Westview Care Center, Britt.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 8, at the United Methodist Church in Crystal Lake, with Pastor Catherine A. Luck officiating. Interment was in the Crystal Lake Cemetery, with military graveside rites given by the Crystal Lake American Legion Post #409. Arrangements were by the Ewing Dugger Funeral Home.

Keith P. Cottington, was born to Levi Bridge and Gertrude Gienap Cottington, rural Crystal Lake on May 17, 1917. He resided on the family farm in Linden Township until 1941, when he joined the army. Keith served in the 34th Red Bull Division as a sergeant from February of 1941 to August of 1945. He served in campaigns in Africa, Italy and Germany and was awarded the Purple Heart among many other citations. He was honorably discharged and upon his return home was married to Maxine Enderson in Webster City, on June 2, 1946. Keith farmed in the Crystal Lake area until his heart attack. He then delivered Winnebago motor homes until his retirement in 1990. He resided at the Prairie View Apartments in Garner, until he moved to the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Keith was a member of Post #409 American Legion in Crystal Lake and a Life-Member of VFW Post #2818 in Litchfield, Minnesota.

Keith is survived by eight brothers and sisters, Donald "Red" Cottington of Britt, Richard and Flo Cottington of North Sioux City, South Dakota, Gwen Rolland of Bode, Rex and Beverly Cottington of Phoenix, Arizona, Bruce and Marie Cottington of Litchfield, Minnesota, Marilee and Jim McAlpine of Oak Harbor, Washington, Barbara and Don Penquite of Ankeny and Levi Junior and Doris Cottington of Crossville, Tennessee; many nieces and nephews; and sister-in-law, Carol Jean Jensen of Westminster, Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Maxine; half-brothers, Lyie Cottington and Dwight Cottington; half-sister, Gladys Siekmeier; and sister, Pauline Watson.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Beulah Barsness, 92

Published September 22, 2004, Page B-7

Beulah A. Barsness, 92, a resident of the Iowa Masonic Health Facility, Bettendorf and formerly of Mason City, died on Saturday, September 4, 2004, at the facility.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, September 18, at the Trinity Lutheran Church, Mason City, where she was a member. Family interment ceremonies were held in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.

Beulah A., the beloved daughter of Nicholai and Josephine (Jarshaw) Lund, was born on February 29, 1912 in Rake. On June 10, 1944, she was united in marriage to Erick Leon Barsness at Camp Cooke, California. Leon preceded her in death on January 19, 1984. In early years, Beulah taught in a one-room school in Thompson and in later years, worked as a bookkeeper at several area businesses.

Those left to honor her memory include her sons and daughters-in-law, Eric and Judy Barsness of Lenox, Massachusetts, Gary and Tana Barsness of Bettendorf and Jerry and Debbie Barsness of Mason City; her grandchildren, Susy, Matt, Jeff, Cory, Jeremy and Amanda; four great-grandchildren; her sister and brother-in-law, Ruby and Carleton Rauk of Forest City; and her brother and sister-in-law, Burnell and Alice Lund of Amarillo, Texas.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her grand-daughter, Emily Barsness; her sister, Agnes Lund; and her brothers, Homer and Norman Lund.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Herman Ver Hoef, 92

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Herman Ver Hoef, 92, of Forest City, died on Sunday, September 5, 2004, at the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Friday, September 10, at the United Methodist Church in Forest City, with Rev. Catherine Luck officiating. Burial was in the Madison Township Cemetery in Forest City, with the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Herman Ver Hoef, was born on January 1, 1912 in Sioux County, Iowa, to John and Grace (Roetman) Ver Hoef. He moved with his parents to Hollandale, Minnesota, then later to Forest City. He was in the Christian Reformed Church. Herman was married to Lots Thompson on March 15, 1934. The couple lived in the Forest City area all their married lives. They were engaged in farming and later Herman went on to operate a blacksmith shop. He and Lots operated Herman's Cafe and then worked in maintenance for Winnebago County until his retirement.

Herman was an active member of the United Methodist Church. He enjoyed hunting and was an avid fisherman who loved to share his catch with family and friends. He did a lot of catch and release and was very protective of the environment. If you asked him where he caught the fish, he would reply, "In the pond." He will be remembered for his ready smile and quick "hello."

Herman is survived by his wife of 70 years, Lots of Forest City; two sisters, Katie Baartiman and husband, Ed of Sheldon and Nancy Steffen of Gamer; a brother, John Ver Hoef and his wife, Marjorie of Leland; two sisters-in-law, Uva Hanson and Willetta Thompson; several nieces and nephews; a host of friends; and brother-in-law, Don Gahan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Jean; and a brother, Francis.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Lucille M. Guernsey, 91

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Lucille M. Guernsey, 91, of Lake Mills, died on Sunday, September 5, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 8, at the Asbury United Methodist Church in Lake Mills, with Pastor Audrey Young officiating. Burial was in the Sunnyside Cemetery in Lake Mills, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Maxine E. Gertsen, 85

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Maxine E. Gertsen, 85, of Lake Mills, died on Sunday, September 5, 2004, at the Mercy Hospital Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 9, at the Asbury United Methodist Church in Lake Mills, with Pastor Audrey Young officiating. Interment was in the Sunnyside Cemetery, with the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Grace Hassebroek, 87

Published September 15, 2004, Page A-8

Grace Hassebroek, 87, of Buffalo Center, died on Wednesday, September 8, 2004, at the Timely Mission Nursing Home in Buffalo Center.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 11, at the First Congregational Church in Buffalo Center, with Rev. Paul Haugen officiating. Burial was in the Graceland Cemetery, Buffalo Center, with the Winter Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements. Kathi Nelson, organist, accompanied congregational hymns. Honorary bearers were grandchildren, Johnathan Hassebroek and Lauren Hassebroek. Casket bearers were Steve Bosma, Mark Bosma, Ray Bosma, Ken Mastin and Ray Oswald.

Grace Dorothy (Bosma) Hassebroek, the daughter of Thomas and Florence (Adams) Bosma, was born on February 19, 1917, on the family farm in Kossuth County, southwest of Buffalo Center. Grace attended country school until the eighth grade when she then worked as a housekeeper for various area families. On December 31, 1946, she was united in marriage to Harvey Hassebroek at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Grace and Harvey farmed for 36 years on the home farm one mile west of Buffalo Center. Upon retiring and moving to Buffalo Center in 1983, they lived in the Clinic Apartments for over 20 years, serving as managers for 10 years.

A member of the First Congregational Church in Buffalo Center, she was active in the Women's Fellowship and missionary work group. She was also a member of the Legion Auxiliary. Grace enjoyed crafts, cooking and family get-togethers as they were special and enjoyable for her.

Grace is survived by her husband of 57 years, Harvey Hassebroek of Buffalo Center; her son, Harley Hassebroek and his wife, Lynn of Buffalo Center; grandson, Johnathan Hassebroek of Mason City; granddaughter, Lauren Hassebroek of Buffalo Center; a brother, Alfred "Jim" Bosma and his wife, Norma of Buffalo Center; and sisters, Annabel Oswald of Frost, Minnesota and Bessie Weaver of Forest City.

Grace was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter-in-law, Susan Hassebroek; brothers, Heiko, Edward, Lewis, Thomas, Clarence and Bert; and sisters, Lillian Mastin, Esther Mastin, Irene Burger and Martha Horton.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Opal Gannon, 87

Published September 22, 2004, Page B-7

Opal Gannon, age 87, of Forest City, died on Monday, September 13, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, September 18, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home in Forest City, with Rev. Lee Laaveg officiating. Inurnment will be at a later date in the St. Michaels Catholic Cemetery in Farmington, Minnesota.

Opal Marion, the daughter of Mons and Mary (Erdahl) Aske, was born on December 8, 1916 in Eden Township, Winnebago County. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church. At the age of 10 her family moved to Forest City. She attended Forest City Schools and Waldorf College. She worked 28 years for the Northern Natural Gas Company in Forest City. On October 18, 1970, she married Robert Gannon. They moved to Marshall, Minnesota and owned and ran a restaurant there with his sister and brother-in-law. They also purchased a restaurant and dinner club at Pipestone, Minnesota, selling their interest in Marshall. The couple retired to Lakeville, Minnesota and lived in the Lake Edwards area and Minneapolis before moving to Pharr, Texas. In 1989 they moved to Springfield, Missouri and lived in Nixa. Robert died December 1, 2000 and on February 22, 2003, Opal and her daughter, Linda returned to Forest City to live.

Opal and Bob traveled many places and enjoyed visits to his sons and their families. In recent years she was blessed to visit her granddaughter and family in Forest City.

Opal is survived by her loving daughter, Linda Danielson of Forest City; her grandson, Bradley (Krista) Hanson of Tacoma, Washington; granddaughter, Amy (Duane) Asche of Forest City; six great-grandchildren; four step-sons, Robert (Patricia) Gannon of Fayetteville, Georgia, Terry (Debbie) Gannon of Palm Coast, Florida, Patrick (Jodi) Gannon of Fayetteville, Georgia and Mike (Edie) Gannon of Fairburn, Georgia; six step-grandchildren and two nephews and four nieces, Marvin Johnson of Ft. Meyer, Florida, Jerry Aske of N. Ft. Meyers, Florida, Darlyne Engebritson of Vinje, Gloria Langfald of Scarville, Janet Church of Clarksville, Missouri and Ione Nelson of Forest City.

Opal was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her parents; brothers, Gilbert and Oliver; sisters, Inanda, Jeannette and Madeline; and a grandson, Todd Hanson.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Alvin Halverson, 80

Published September 22, 2004, Page B-7

Alvin Halverson, 80, of Garner, died on Wednesday, September 15, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 18, at the United Presbyterian Church in Garner, with the Rev. Linzy Collins officiating. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery in Garner, with the Cataldo Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements. Music was provided by organist, Audrey Sonnenberg who accompanied congregational hymns. Special music was provided by Rev. Collins and Sheree Pedersen. Ushers were Bill Adams and Mark Katuin. Honorary bearers were the North Garner Community Club and the North Iowa Woodcarvers. Casket bearers were Mike Halverson, Terry Hammond, Donovan Blumer, Jim Crone, Paul Nelson and Jeff Powers.

Alvin Harry, the son of Harland and Fern (Juhl) Halverson, was born on March 9, 1924, on a farm near Miller. When Alvin was six years old his mother, Fern, passed away and his father remarried. He attended country school near Miller and helped his father on the farm. On May 21, 1945, he was united in marriage with Betty Jane Blumer at the Miller Lutheran Church. They lived north of Garner where he farmed and worked at the Butz Hatchery in Garner. Alvin also drove school bus for the Garner-Hayfield Community School District for 28 years. When they moved into town, Alvin began working in the livestock artificial insemination business and was a substitute driver for the Star mail route.

Alvin enjoyed his family, woodcarving and visiting with people. He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church in Garner, the North Garner Community Club and the North Iowa Woodcarvers.

Alvin is survived by his wife, Betty of Garner; four children, Gerald (Carol) Halverson of Coralville, Gloria Halverson of Garner, Brenda (Dave) Zimple of Badger and Sandra (Matt) Crone of Garner; three grandchildren, Stephanie Zimple of Waterloo, Melinda Zimple of Ft. Dodge and Logan Crone of Garner; a sister, Norma Hammond of Leland; a sister-in-law, LaVera Halverson of Garner; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother; and a brother, Franklin Halverson.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Dorothy Hofbauer, 90

Published September 22, 2004, Page B-7

Dorothy Hofbauer, 90, of Buffalo Center, died on Friday, September 17, 2004, at the Titonka Care Center in Titonka.

Funeral services were held on Monday, September 20, at the First Congregational Church in Buffalo Center, with Rev. Paul Haugen officiating. Interment was in the Graceland Cemetery, Buffalo Center, with the Winter Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements. Organist was Vera Bronleewe who accompanied Loren and Lucy Larson and congregational hymns. Casket bearers were Dorothy's grandsons, Steven Hofbauer, Rick Hofbauer, Scott Hofbauer, Jay Hofbauer, John A. Furst and Jeff Hofbauer. Honorary bearers were Dorothy's granddaughters, Kristilyn Hunter, Laura Nielsen, Melinda Hook, Kristine Engler, Stacie Rogstad, Denise Johnson, Leigh Ann Tillo, Jacki Niss, Brooke Boeckholt and Angel Milotelo.

Dorothy Hofbauer, the daughter of John and Katherine (Bruns) Radmaker, was born on September 28, 1913, on the family farm near Titonka. She moved with her parents to South Dakota when she was six years old and moved back to German Valley five years later. Dorothy was confirmed at the Ramsey Reformed Church, rural Titonka and later transferred her membership to the First Congregational Church in Buffalo Center. On December 21, 1935, she was united in marriage to George Hofbauer at her parent's home in Titonka. They farmed near Buffalo Center until they retired and built a new house in Buffalo Center in 1979.

Dorothy loved to spend time with her family. She enjoyed baking cookies, cakes, birthday cakes and pies and liked to garden and raise flowers. She took care of her son, Dale, for nearly 30 years.

Dorothy is survived by her children, Forrest Hofbauer and his wife, Karen of Estherville, Ronald Hofbauer and his wife, Ruth of Sebring, Florida, Jim Hofbauer and his wife, Joyce of Buffalo Center, Shirley and her husband, John Furst of Buffalo Center, Keith Hofbauer of Titonka and Judy and her husband, Alan Boeckholt of Buffalo Center; 17 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son, Dale; her daughter-in-law, Carol; her brothers, Henry Radmaker and Fred Radmaker; and her sister, Anna Jannsen.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Dorothy Celarier, 77

Published September 22, 2004, Page B-7

Dorothy Celarier, 77, died on Friday, September 17, 2004.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 22, at the Bethel Baptist Church, Schaumburg, Illinois, with Pastor Bradley Smith officiating. Burial will be in the Elm Lawn Cemetery in Elmhurst, Illinois.

Dorothy Celarier, was born on February 8, 1927 in Forest City, the daughter of Ruth and Harry Nelson.

She is survived by her husband, Odell Celarier; sons, Steven (Carol) Celarier and Jon Celarier; daughter, Carol (Paul) Crawford; six grandchildren; brothers, Darrel (Constance) Nelson, Raymond (Iva) Nelson, David Nelson, Gene (Janice) Nelson and Richard (Nancy) Nelson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a son, David Celarier.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Beverly Ann Martinson, 69

Published October 6, 2004, Page B-5

Beverly Ann Martinson, 69, died on Friday, September 24, 2004, at a Bismarck, North Dakota Hospital.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 27, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Rockford, North Dakota, with burial in Grace City, North Dakota.

Beverly Ann, the eldest daughter of Earl (Toad) and Vivian Fox Jr., was born on January 2, 1935, in rural Forest City.

Survivors include her sons, Kevin Swalve of Mapleton, Minnesota, Merlin Swalve of Lake Crystal, Minnesota and Lyman Martinson of Chattardy, Washington; two daughters, Kim Swalve and Gail Potter of Thompson; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; her parents, Earl and Vivian Fox of Forest City; two sisters, Marsha Berg of Fertile and Mary Jane Silliman of Ankeny; five brothers, Ron Fox, Tom Fox, John Fox, all of Forest City, Clifton Fox of Thompson and Craig Fox of Richfield, Minnesota.

Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Rudy; and a granddaughter.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Jack Hernon, 92

Published October 6, 2004, Page B-5

Jack Hernon, 92, of Forest City, died on Monday, September 27, 2004, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 30, at the Ewing Dugger Funeral Home in Britt, with Pastor Penny Thacker officiating. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery in Britt.

Jack, the son of Thomas and Millie Iverson Hernon, was born on June 16, 1912 at Medicine Lake, Montana. After the death of his father in 1915, the family moved to Forest City. He graduated from the Forest City High School in 1929. Jack was united in marriage with Mildred Rapp on July 23, 1938 in Owatonna, Minnesota. Following their marriage, Jack was employed by the Richardson Tire Shop, Forest City Municipal Power Plant and the Dairyland Coop. The couple moved to Algona in 1951, where Jack was employed by the Algona Municipal Plant until retiring in 1977. Following retirement, Jack and Mildred moved to their cottage in Clear Lake, where they would spend their summers. In the winters they would travel and spend time at Bermuda Palms in Earp, California. In 1992, they decided to spend full time at the lake. Jack and Mildred moved to Forest City in 2001.

Jack had a great love for nature and birds. He always had his camera ready for the right moment for a great picture. Jack was a World War II veteran and a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 121 in Forest City.

Jack is survived by his wife, Mildred; a sister-in-law, Ethel Hernon of Huston, Texas; two nephews, Patrick Hernon of Pasadena, Texas and Peter Hernon of Framington, Maine.

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

Alton Halverson, 80

Published October 6, 2004, Page B-5

Alton Halverson, 80, of Ames, died at his home on Monday, September 27, 2004.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 30, at the Ascension Lutheran Church in Ames. Burial was in the Ames Municipal Cemetery.

Alton Burnell, the son of Alfred C. and Bertha (Ferley) Halverson, was born on November 1, 1923 in Worth County. Alton completed a B.A. in Business Administration from the Mankato State College. He worked in business administration and accounting, including Winnebago and Grundy County RECs and comptroller at Friedrich Realty and Construction in Ames. He served in the U.S. Army under General George Patton in Europe during WW II. Alton was united in marriage with Elinor Holland on June 8, 1952, at the Grant Lutheran Church in Winnebago County.

He was a member of the Ascension Lutheran Church in Ames, a past member of the Ametones Barbershop Chorus and the American Legion Post 37.

Survivors include his wife, Elinor Halvorson of Ames; sons, Mark (Nancy) Halvorson of Story City, Brian Halvorson of St. Louis Park, Minnesota and Bruce (Sue) Halvorson of Omaha, Nebraska; grandchildren, Kristen, Kevin and Jonathan Halvorson of Omaha, Nebraska; step-grandchildren, Jeff (Brigitte) Ried of Pekin, Illinois, Vicki (Brent) Elscott of Pleasant Hill, Chris Ried of Dennison, Texas; step-great-grandchildren, Joel Elscott of Altoona, Andrew Ried of Des Moines, Breanna Elscott of Pleasant Hill, Payton Ried of Pekin, Illinois; nephew, Ralph (Sandy) Halvorson of Burnsville, Minnesota; niece, Ruth Ann (John) Wiess of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughter-in-law, Sonja Halvorson.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Robert Gudmonson

Published October 13, 2004, Page B-5

Robert E. "Goody" Gudmonson, died on Monday, September 27, 2004, at home after a long three-year battle with cancer.

Burial was in the Fort Snelling National Cemetery in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Goody was born in Forest City and raised in Fertile. He was a Marine in the Vietnam War and worked for Norstan Communications for 28 years.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 35 years, Wanda; sons, James (Megan) and Chad (Kristen); daughter, Jennifer (Shane) Follmer; and four beautiful and loving grandchildren, Halie, Dawson, Kenneth and Abbey; sisters, Janice (Wayne) Wagner, Mary Zahnd (life partner, Mandy); a niece, nephews and many loving and caring friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Myrtle; and brother, Don.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Barbara Cromwell, 59

Published October 6, 2004, Page B-5

Barbara E. Cromwell, 59, died on Tuesday, September 28, 2004, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, October 2, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Woden, with the Rev. Arlen Lloyd officiating. Music was provided by organist, Karen Post who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and a congregational hymn. Ushers were Bill Gerdes and Lyle Doege. Casket bearers were Clay Hobbs, Bryce Juhl, Larry Flatebo, Corey Williams, Darrell Brandt and Lisa Lorenzen. Inurnment will be at a later date in the Bingham Township Cemetery, Woden. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Barbara Ellan Lorenzen Cromwell, the daughter of Willie and Charlotte (Smith) Phillips, was born on March 24, 1945 at Buffalo Center. She attended country school near Woden until the age of 11, when she moved with her family to Marietta, Minnesota. On October 25, 1961, she was married to Vernon Lorenzen at Madison, Minnesota. They lived in South Dakota where they raised their six children before moving to Woden in 1969. In May of 1971 another child, Scott, was added to their family. Barb was employed at Winnebago Industries from 1971 to 1974, drove school bus from 1974 to 1980 and in 1975 started Barb's Poultry Picking, which she operated until selling it to her daughter, Tammy in 1983. She began driving semi in 1975 for Bituminus in Algona and later for Brazos Transport in Ft. Dodge.

On July 27, 1986, her husband, Vernon, died in a semi accident. After his death, Barb continued to live in Woden and in 1988 began driving for Keim Transport and ran the terminal. On June 9, 1990, she was married to Marlin Cromwell at  theTrinity Lutheran Church in Forest City. They lived in Woden and drove semi together for Norseman Trucking in Lake Mills. They continued to drive as a team until August 6, 2004.

Barb enjoyed her grandchildren, gardening, tending to her flowerbeds, camping, NASCAR racing, needlework and collecting dolls, beanie babies, angels and music boxes. She also enjoyed playing bear claw machines and would give her prizes to her grandchildren or children in need. She was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church and the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

Barb is survived by her husband, Marlin of Woden; seven children, Kimberly (Larry) Flatebo of Woden, Susan (Darrell) Brandt of Bricelyn, Minnesota, Robert (Lisa) Lorenzen of Mason City, Tammra Lorenzen and significant other, Corey Williams of Buffalo Center, Patricia (Clay) Hobbs of Britt, Pamela (Bryce) Juhl of Ft. Dodge and Scott (Tina) Lorenzen of Lincolnton, Georgia; a step-daughter, Terry Rogers of Boone; grandchildren, Kristi, Jeremy, Renae, Matthew, Shannon, Lucas, Austin, Laura, Daniel, Brianna, Ryan, Evan, Logan, Morgan, Cassandra, Dakota and Devin; step-grandchildren, Jessica, Jon, James, Jessa and Janelle; a brother, Billy (Ingrid) Phillips of Rockford, Illinois; a sister, Beverly Phillips of Ft. Worth, Texas; and many nieces, nephews and other family.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Vernon; and her parents.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Alice Barringer, 68

Published October 6, 2004, Page B-5

Alice Barringer, 68, died on Wednesday, September 29, 2004, after a long battle with cancer.

Memorial services were held on Monday, October 4, at the First Baptist Church in Newberg, Oregon. Graveside services were held on Sunday, October 3, in the Mountainside Cemetery in Scholls, Oregon, with Pastor Larry Smithwick officiating.

Alice Barringer, the daughter of Nick and Reka Dykstra, was born on July 25, 1936, at their home near Rock Valley. Alice lived on her parents' farm until she was 10 years old, when they moved to a farm near Maurice. This was a change from country school to a public school. She graduated from Maurice High in 1954. She spent the next three years attending the Omaha Baptist Bible College, graduating in 1957. She was united in marriage with Lanny Ray Barringer on June 12, 1957, at the First Baptist Church in Sioux Center. She followed her husband around the Midwest and western United States as they shared in church planting, ministry, inspirational books and Bible camps. Their marriage was blessed with seven children who were the light of her life. With them she leaves a legacy of faith, hope and love, lessons taught by action and deeds rather than words.

She is survived by her husband; six children, Bernie of Backus, Minnesota, Sheri Lewis of Mukilteo, Washington, Dan of Rock Hill, South Carolina, Janelle Larson of San Marcos, California, Juanita Funkhouser of Aloha, Oregon and Melanie Hempel of Oregon City, Oregon; brothers, Eldon Dykstra of Worthington, Minnesota and Gerrit Dykstra of Wasilla, Alaska; sisters, Tressa Hayes of Glendora, California and Lucy Post of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; 21 grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Barney; a sister, Berdene; her daughter, Lynnette O'Conner; a granddaughter, Lynda Frein; and a grandson, Joshua Lewis.
© 2004 Forest City Summit

Steven Peterson, 61

Published October 6, 2004, Page B-5

Steven L. Peterson, 61, died on Thursday, September 30, 2004, at his home in Lake Mills.

Funeral services were held on Monday, October 4, at the Salem Lutheran Church, with Rev. Roger Dykstra officiating. Burial was in the Salem Memorial Cemetery in Lake Mills, with military honors performed by the Otto/Chose Post 235 of Lake Mills and the Mittelstadt Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Steven Leslie Peterson, was born on November 6, 1942 at Forest City, the son of Leslie and Marjorie (Heltne) Peterson. He was baptized in the Lutheran faith at the Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills. Steve was confirmed at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Ankeny. He attended and graduated from the Ankeny High School in 1960 and went on to attend Iowa State University. Following his schooling, Steve worked construction and drove semi truck for Dahlen Transport.

He loved the outdoors, working in his yard and taking care of his flowers. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Steve also loved to fish and to travel, and he went on many vacations with Diane's family.

Those left to cherish his memory are Diane Brackey of Lake Mills; a daughter, Nichole Segura and her husband, Ben of Lake Mills; two sons, Scott Peterson of Lake Mills and David Ekman of Burlington; six grandchildren, Sarah, Rachel and Jacob Segura, all of Lake Mills and Jessica, Valorie and Kristen Ekman, all of Burlington; his mother, Marjorie Peterson of Ankeny; a sister, Mary Adams of Las Vegas, Nevada; a niece, Kara Adams and nephew, Michael Adams, both of Las Vegas, Nevada; and Diane's family, Ray and Thelma Isaacson of Albert Lea, Minnesota, Dave and Patti Hissam of Marshall, Minnesota, Danny and Pam Brackey of Lake Mills, Robert and Julie Brackey of Albert Lea, Minnesota and Deb Bergland of Albert Lea, Minnesota.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Leslie Peterson; and his grand-parents.
© 2004 Forest City Summit