ElVena Anderson, 1919-2002

April 10, 2002

ElVena J. Anderson, 82, of Clarion, died on Tuesday, April 2, 2002, at the USA Healthcare Center in Dows.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 6, at the Willim Funeral Home of Clarion. The Rev. LaVonne Kaasa of the Clarion First United Methodist Church officiated. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery.

ElVena June (Hawe) Anderson, daughter of John and Myrtle (Rinehart) Hawe was born on June 22, 1919 at Hampton, Iowa. She attended school and graduated from the Dows High School in 1938.

On January 26, 1941, ElVena Hawe was united in marriage to Sven Anderson at the Methodist Parsonage in Clarion. The couple farmed in Wright and Franklin Counties. During that time, Mrs. Anderson helped her husband on the farm and tended to their home and family.

After retiring from farming in 1973, the couple moved to Clarion. Mrs. Anderson worked as a sales clerk at the Skogmo Department Store and later at Karen's Clothing Store.

She was a member of the Clarion First United Methodist Church. In her spare time she enjoyed her family, knitting, country music and find-a-word puzzles.

Survivors include her husband, Sven of Clarion; a daughter, Beverly Claude and her husband, Francis of Clarion; a granddaughter, Cathy Claude of Cassville, Missouri; two great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

Also surviving are a brother, Louis Hawe and his wife, Bernadine of Garner; two nieces; and two nephews.

Mrs. Anderson was preceded in death by her parents.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Samuel Schlicht, Sr., 1915-2002

April 10, 2002

Samuel E. Schlicht Sr., 86, of Garner, died on Wednesday, April 3, 2002, at his home.

His funeral was held at 1:30 p.m., on Tuesday, April 9, at the United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Kay Hooper officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied soloist, Doug Hayes and a congregational hymn. Ushers were Marvin and Maynard Schoneman.

Casket bearers were Steven Eden, Jeff Wilcke, Kevin Wilcke, David Schreiber, Mark Schreiber, Gregg Harms, Sidney Louis and Nathan Strayer. Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery, with military rites provided by the Garner Veterans Ceremonial Unit. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Samuel Ernest Schlicht, the oldest son of Ernest and Mae (Crook) Schlicht, was born on July 31, 1915 at Zookspur, Iowa near Madrid. He grew up in Boone County, Iowa and graduated from the Pilot Mound High School in 1934. During high school he played sports, particularly basketball. He had a life long love of baseball. After graduation, he worked for a time in local coal mines with his father.

On May 26, 1939, he married Helyn Crouthamel at Unionville, Missouri and to this union were born four children, Jacqueline Harriet, Marilyn Mae, Samuel Ernest, Jr. and Elaine June. He served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II in the Philippines. Following his discharge, he returned home to Iowa.

During his lifetime, Mr. Schlicht tried his hand at farm work and coal mining before working in and managing lumberyards, including the Woodford Wheeler Lumber Yard in Garner. He was also employed at Winnebago Industries from 1967 to 1976.

After moving to Garner, Sam discovered a hobby that became a successful business. He taught himself clock repair and opened a shop in his garage. He also made cases for numerous clocks, which he assembled and sold. He will be remembered by many in the area for his excellent, caring restoration of antique and family heirloom pieces.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church and the Garner American Legion.

Mr. Schlicht is survived by is wife of 63 years, Helyn of Garner; four children, Jacqueline Eden and her husband, Robert of Woden, Marilyn Venezzio and her husband, Ralph of Cape Coral, Florida, Samuel Schlicht, Jr. and his wife, Linda of Mason City and Elaine Schreiber and her husband, Richard of Garner; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Sidney Louis of Fort Worth, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Roger DeKruif, 1942-2002

April 10, 2002

Roger DeKruif, 59, of Britt, died on Friday, April 5, 2002, at his home in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, April 9, 2002, at the St. Patrick Catholic Church, Britt. The Rev. Marvin Bries officiated. Music was provided by organist, Brenda Smith who accompanied vocalist, Karlee Schulz. Ushers were Allen Doughan and Marvin Holck.

Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. Casket bearers were Mike DeKruif, Donald DeKruif, Larry DeKruif, Dennis Studer, David DeKruif and Burrell Buren. The Ewing Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements. 

Roger DeKruif, the son of Walter and Gertrude (Stover) DeKruif, was born on May 10, 1942 in Paulina, Iowa.  He attended school in Paulina, and later moved to Britt.

He was united in marriage with Sharon Rasmuson in 1961. The couple made their home in Britt.  Roger was employed with Hancock Road Maintenance for the past 30 years.  He enjoyed gun collecting, hunting, fishing and playing cards.

Roger is survived by his daughter, Debra Studer and husband, Dennis and children, Tony and Tara Studer of Britt; son, David DeKruif and special friend, Nancy and children, Alec and Angela DeKruif of DeLeon Springs, Florida; brothers, Donald DeKruif and wife, Carolyn of Britt, Larry DeKruif and wife, Kay of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Rodney DeKruif and wife, Sherry of Joplin, Missouri and Mike DeKruif and special friend, Becky of Waterloo; sisters, Kathy Haugh and husband, Joe of Newhall, Iowa and Audrey Puhrmann of Paulina, Iowa; nieces, nephews and his very special friend, Betty Nelson of Britt.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon in 1998; son, James; and brothers, Brad and Kenny.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Loretta E. Kuch, 1915-2002

April 10, 2002

Loretta Ellen Kuch, 87, of Britt, died on Friday, April 5, 2002, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital, Britt.

Her funeral was held on Monday, April 8, at the Evangelical Free Church in Britt, with Pastor Mark Stevens and Jason Boomgarden officiating. Music was provided by organist, Jane Anderson who accompanied congregational hymns and special music by Connie Anderson and Jay Burgardt. Ushers were Ken DeWaard and Larry Fox.

Honorary bearers were Harold Kahlstorf, David Peterson, Nels Jensen, Merle Muhm and Verlin Ball. Casket bearers were Rodney Swanson, Monte Swanson, Shane Swanson, Matthew Swanson, Debbie Kuch Petz, Dale Kuch, Doug Kuch and Jeremy Kuch. Interment was in the Evergreen Cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home of Britt, was in charge of the arrangements.

Loretta Ellen Kuch, the daughter of Noah and Zora (Wyant) Whitehurst, was born on March 7, 1915 on a farm near Britt. She attended the rural schools near Britt. She worked for neighbors as a hired girl and also helped at home.

On July 8, 1934, she was married to Carl Jacob Kuch at her parent's farm home near Garner. The couple farmed in Winnebago and Hancock counties until 1963, when they retired from active farming. In November of 1963, they moved to Melbourne, Florida. In June of 1964, they returned to Britt where she cared for several ladies in their homes. She enjoyed embroidering and caring for flowers.

She loved and prayed for her family and church. She served in her church work as Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School Teacher, Ladies Aid President and choir member. She was on the founding committee that established the auxiliary board for the Evangelical Free Church Retirement Home in Boone.

Mrs. Kuch attended the Upper Flat Evangelical Free Church and the Evangelical Free Church in Britt. She also belonged to the Happy Homemakers Neighborhood Club.

She is survived by her daughter, Darlene Swanson and her husband, Ronald "Babe" of Forest City; son, Donald Kuch and his wife, Matilda "Tillie" of Olmsted Falls, Ohio; five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sisters and brother, Evelyn Stokesbary of Clear Lake, Gladys Schmid of Britt, Orvin Whitehurst and his wife, Jan of Clear Lake and Irene Anderson Pletcher and her husband, Robert of Forest City; a sister-in-law, Charlotte Whitehurst Harlan of Clear Lake; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl on December 8, 1992; her parents; brothers and sisters, John Whitehurst, Blanche Schujter, Glen Whitehurst, Vestus Leerar, Ivan Whitehurst and Mervin Whitehurst.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Ronald D. Schlawin, 1952-2002

April 10, 2002

Ronald D. Schlawin, of Garner, died on Friday, April 5, 2002, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City. He was 49.

Funeral services were held on Monday, April 8, at the United Presbyterian Church in Garner, with the Rev. Roger Kallem and the Rev. William Gentry II of the First Congregational Church of Elkader and McGregor officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mary Witt who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and a congregational hymn. Special music was provided by Becky Rose. Ushers were Larry Young and Norm Henschen.

Honorary bearers were Tim Wellendorf, Scott Wellendorf, Steve Wellendorf, Gary Schlawin, Bob Schlawin, Jr. and Nick Cordes. Casket bearers were Brian Arnold, Larry Spieker, Monte McClintock, Greg Schlawin, Kim Nelson and Merle Schrage. Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home, Garner was in charge of the arrangements.

Ronald Dale Schlawin, the son of Kenneth Louis and Syble Bernice (Webner) Schlawin, was born on September 26, 1952 at Hampton. He graduated from the Garner-Hayfield High School in 1970 and continued his education at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge. After college, Ron returned to Garner and worked at the Franta Furniture Store in Mason City.

On April 16, 1983, he married Delawn Kellie Nicklaus at the First Congregational Church in Parkersburg. They made their home in Garner. Ron worked at Winnebago Industries in Forest City until he was diagnosed with cancer. He enjoyed his children, going for walks, carpentry work and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his wife, Delawn of Garner; two children, Kaitlin and Max Schlawin at home; his father, Kenneth Schlawin of Garner; two brothers and a sister, Robert Schlawin and his wife, Carrie of Alexandria, Virginia, Judy Wellendorf of Elkader and Jerry Schlawin and his wife, Kathy of Elkport, Iowa; his parents-in-law, Darwin and Darlene Nicklaus of Parkersburg; a sister-in-law, Delaine Cordes and her husband, Rod of Dike; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Syble Schlawin on May 26, 1995.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Donald F. Ott, 1924-2002

April 18, 2002

Donald Francis Ott, 77, formerly of Clear Lake, died on Saturday April 6, 2002, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

A Memorial Service was held on Friday, April 12, at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake. The Rev. Fred Lewis of the United Methodist Church in Clear Lake will be officiating.

Donald Ott, was born on June 21, 1924 in Clear Lake, the son of Ralph and Ethel (Howard) Ott. After his mother died when he was 6 years old, his father remarried Nettie Howard. He attended school in Clear Lake. He entered the U.S. Navy on September 11, 1942, and served overseas during WW II. After his discharge on February 22, 1946, he moved back to Clear Lake.

Donald married Verna Pringnitz on October 22, 1947, at the Liberty Methodist Church in Klemme. They farmed in the Clear Lake area. Later, he was a house contractor and professional truck driver. He later moved to California and Laughlin, Nevada.  He enjoyed traveling.

He is survived by four children, Terry Ott of Fairbanks, Alaska, Vickey Ott of Bland, Missouri, Rick Ott and his wife, Linda and their two children, Angela and Brady Ott of Clear Lake, Rod "Rock" Ott and his wife, Barb of Clear Lake; four brothers and sisters, Dorothy Short and her husband, Bill of Garner, John "Jack" Ott and his wife, Eunice of Lakeville, Minnesota, Margaret "Maggie" Thompson and her husband, Earl of Battlefield, Missouri and Ralph "Babe" Ott and his wife, Jackie of Victoria, Minnesota; and his former wife, Verna Ott of Clear Lake.

He was preceded in death by his parents.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Myrtl A. Mahr, 1921-2002

April 18, 2002

Myrtle Arlein Mahr, 80, of rural Clear Lake, died on Monday April 8, 2002, at the USA Healthcare Center, Mason City.

Graveside services were held on Friday, April 12, at the Pleasant View Cemetery, Thornton, Iowa. Fanny Hansen, Elder of the Community of Christ Church, officiated. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of the arrangements

Myrtle A. Mahr, was born on September 22, 1921, on the family farm south of Clear Lake, the daughter of George Daniel and Fredrica N. (Juhl) Mahr. She attended Hubbard Country School through the 8th grade. She worked on the farm with her parents caring for the animals and garden. Later, following the death of her parents she did housecleaning for many area families. She also worked at Neil Cleaners for several years. She became a resident of the USA Healthcare in 1998.

Myrtle is survived by a cousin, Elaine Honeck of Mason City and special friend, Jo Best of Clear Lake. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; and several uncles and aunts.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Geraldine M. Mowers, 1926-2002

April 30, 2002

Geraldine M. Mowers, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, April 9, 2002.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 13, 2002, at the United Methodist Church in Ellendale, Minnesota. Burial was in the Sunset Rest Cemetery in Northwood, Iowa.

Geraldine was born in Dumont on May 17, 1926, to David and Hazel (Johnson) Stephens. She graduated from the Corwith High School in 1945 and from the La James Beauty School in 1946.

On April 22, 1948, she was united in marriage to Dale Mowers. Geraldine and Dale made their home for many years in Ellendale, Minnesota. More recently they resided in Albert Lea, Minnesota. They wintered in Texas for eighteen years.

Geraldine was a member of the Naomi Circle and the Ellendale United Methodist Church.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents; four sisters (including Marion Nall); three brothers; and one granddaughter.

She is survived by her husband, Dale of Albert Lea, Minnesota; three sons, James of San Diego, California, Kurt and wife, Gayle of Brainerd, Minnesota and Craig and wife, Karen of Albert Lea, Minnesota; two daughters, Judy Lestrud and husband, Howard of Lino Lakes, Minnesota and Cindi Hansen and husband, Darrell of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; eleven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Geraldine was an aunt of David Nall.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Dr. James Ginsberg, 1927-2002

April 30, 2002

James P. Ginsberg, M.D., 75, died on Wednesday, April 10, 2002, at his home in Naples, Florida.

Memorial services were held on Wednesday, April 17, at the Enga Memorial Chapel, St. Louis Park, Minnesota.

Dr. Ginsberg was married to Virginia Baggs in May of 1970. The couple adopted a son, Aaron in 1972 and a daughter, Leonora Ann in Bogota, Columbia in 1973. He was devoted to causes of human rights, justice and protection of the environment.

Dr. Ginsberg is survived by his wife, Virginia Baggs Ginsberg; and his daughter, Leonora Ginsberg.

He was preceded in death by his son, Aaron Lowell Ginsberg in 1987; his parents; brothers, Dr. Robert Ginsberg and Tom Gingsberg; and several aunts and uncles.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Lois L. Nielsen, 1929-2002

April 24, 2002

Lois L. Nielsen, 72, of Forest City, died on Thursday, April 11, at her home in Forest City.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, April 16, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with the Rev. Lee Laaveg officiating. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City. Visitation was from 4-8:00 p.m., on Monday, April 15, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home of Forest City.

Lois L (Wonsmos) Nielsen, the daughter of Albert and Bernice (Polsdofer) Wonsmos, was born on August 22, 1929 in Thornton. She graduated from the Meservey Schools in 1947.

On May 17, 1947, she married Dale Nielsen. After moving to Forest City in 1951, she held various jobs at such places as Lynn's Department Store, the Forest City Greenhouse and for the past 25 years the Forest City Elementary School. There she was best known as the "Lunch Lady."

She was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. Her interests include playing bridge, activities at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Saturday Morning Breakfast Group, her grandchildren and her many friends. She was a loving wife and mother.

Survivors include her children, Cathy Isebrand and husband, Mike of Story City, Steve Nielsen and wife, Amy of Clear Lake, Beth Moon of Forest City and Gerald Nielsen and wife, Elise of Amboy Minnesota; her brother, Richard Wonsmos and wife, Darlene of Thornton; grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Christopher Isebrand and wife, Rachel, Angela Isebrand, Dani Nielsen, Cari Whitman and husband, Leland, Joey Nielsen, Christina, Nick and Erica Calgaard, Paula and Chris Moon, Travis and Ingrid Nielsen.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dale Nielsen; and a brother, Wayne. Blessed be her memory!
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Forrest W. Langlitz, 1914-2002

April 18, 2002

Forrest W. Langlitz, 87, of Klemme, died on Saturday, April 13, 2002, at the Belmond Medical Center Hospice Unit.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, April 16, at the Tenold-Andrews Funeral Home, Klemme, with the Rev. Paddy Druhl of the Klemme United Methodist Church officiating. Burial was in the Amsterdam Cemetery in Goodell.

Forrest Langlitz, was born on November 20, 1914, on his parents farm in Goodell, the son of Frederick William and Anna (Rust) Langlitz. He attended Goodell Schools until his junior year when he moved to Meservey. He graduated from the Meservey High School in 1932.

Mr. Langlitz was a life long farmer, farming in the Klemme area for 33 years before retiring in 1978. He later moved to the Klemme Apartments where he made his home for 20 years.

In his younger years, he very much enjoyed playing fast-pitch softball. In later life he took up the games of bowling and golf. He also enjoyed playing cards, and was an avid cribbage player. Another favorite past time was reading.

Survivors include his brother, Ira Langlitz a resident of the Belmond Health Care Center; two nephews, Kenneth and Larry and his wife, Gail Langlitz, all of Goodell; Sherry Langlitz, the wife of the late Bill Langlitz of Garner; and several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Elmer; sister-in-law, Wava Langlitz; a niece, Eileen Trager; and a nephew, Bill Langlitz.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Curtis K. Blank, 1937-2002

April 18, 2002

Curtis K. Blank, 64, of Garner, died on Sunday, April 14, 2002, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital, Britt.

His funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday at the United Methodist Church in Garner, with the Rev. Kay Hooper officiating. Music will be provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who will accompany soloist, Bernie Urich and congregational hymns. Jim Jass and Brad Frein will usher.

Honorary bearers will be his seven grandchildren. Casket bearers will be Wayne Flaten, Dale Wood, Dennis Schaefer, Dallas Bauer, Bob Anderson and Gary Rayhons. Interment will be in the Concord Township Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5-8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, at the United Methodist Church and one hour prior to the services at the church on Wednesday. The Cataldo Funeral Home of Garner is in charge of the arrangements.

Curtis Keith Blank, the son of Thomas and Esther (Malek) Blank, was born on October 8, 1937 at Forest City. He attended the Hayfield Consolidated School where he graduated from high school in 1956. During high school, Curtis was active in sports and played on the Hayfield basketball team that went to State in 1956. After high school, Curtis played in the southern Minnesota semi-pro baseball league as a pitcher.

On October 21, 1956, he married Margie Ann Brozik at the Hayfield Methodist Church. They farmed in the Hayfield area from 1956 to 1986. Curtis also owned and operated a gun shop in Hayfield for many years. He enjoyed hunting and gardening. He was a member of the United Methodist Church and the Farm Bureau.

He is survived by his wife, Margie of Garner; three children, Kim Fabich and her husband, Mike of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kent Blank and his wife, Michelle of Henry, Illinois and Lee Blank and his wife, Shelley of Smithville, Missouri; and seven grandchildren, Danny Fabich, Lindsey Blank, Pat Fabich, Bryant Blank, Sarah Fabich, Joey Fabich and Wesley Blank.

Also surviving are his mother-in-law, Frances Brozik of Garner; a brother, Sylvester Blank and his wife, Emma Jean of Des Moines; three sisters, Tessie Johnson and her husband, Marvin of Garner, Eunice Johnson of Garner and Marcia Blank of Garner; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law, Frank Brozik; and two brothers, Jack and Lehman Blank.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Arnett D. Ostendorf, 1926-2002

April 24, 2002

Arnett Duane Ostendorf, 75, of Klemme, died on Wednesday, April 17, 2002, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City, with his family at his side.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 20, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman officiated. Music was provided by organist, Lynette Nuehring who accompanied soloist, Lance Arnold. Terry Woiwood and Kirk Pearson ushered.

Interment was in the Meservey Cemetery in Meservey. Casket bearers were Steven Ostendorf, Rob Ostendorf, Jerry Ostendorf, Jerry Ostendorf, David Stromer, Brian Bovenmeyer, Kevin Bovenmeyer, Wade Grieman and Rob Bachman. The Tenold-Andrews Funeral Home, Klemme, was in charge of the arrangements. 

Arnett Ostendorf, was born on September 27, 1926 at Mason City, the son of Harry James and Orpha Belle (Smith) Ostendorf. He attended and graduated from the Meservey High School in 1944.

He was united in marriage to Jean H. Barkema on December 27, 1946, at the United Methodist Church. Following their marriage the couple farmed in the Belmond, Goodell and Klemme areas from 1946 until retiring from active farming in September 1971. They continued to live on the farm until 1975, when they moved into Klemme, where they have lived since.

Following his farming career, Mr. Ostendorf worked for the Klemme Co-op Elevator in the grain department until retiring at age 62 in 1988. After retiring, Arnett continued to help area farmers out with their spring and fall field work, including working with Eldon Hagen for many years. He also transported blinds for PAR Products of Klemme.

Mr. Ostendorf was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend throughout his life. He was active in the community of Klemme as a volunteer for many years. He was an active member of his church, serving on various boards as a deacon, as an elder and on the church consistory, where he also served for a time as the secretary. He was a dedicated member of the Klemme Lions Club, where he had served in various positions on the board and was a past president.

Arnett enjoyed working on the grounds of the Slippery Elm Golf Course in Klemme. He was a long time member of the board at the course and had served two tenures as board president. He was a past member of the KADO-Klemme Area Development Organization. A family man, he enjoyed anything that included being around his wife, children and grandchildren. His friends and neighbors were very important to him.

Survivors include his wife of more than 55 years, Jean Ostendorf of Klemme; daughter, Claudia and husband, Duane Boeding of Hampton; sons, Paul Ostendorf and special friend, Toni Bandon of Estherville and Lynn and wife, Diane Ostendorf of Clear Lake.

Also surviving are his brother, Gene and wife, Frances Ostendorf of Rockford; three sisters, Harriet and husband, Delwyn Stromer of West Des Moines, Darlene Bovenmeyer of Garwin and Dorothy and Virgil DeVary of Garner; eight grandchildren, Jon, Mark, and Susan Boeding, Abby, Adam, Andrew, and Alex Ostendorf, and Heather Elston; a great-granddaughter, Juliana Arifi; a sister-in-law, Joye Ostendorf of Meservey; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Orpha Ostendorf; an infant son, Todd Ostendorf; a brother, Robert Ostendorf; a brother-in-law, Keith Bovenmeyer; and a nephew, Randy Stromer.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Louis F. Braatz, Jr., 1959-2002

April 30, 2002

Louis Frank Braatz, 42, of Omaha, died on Wednesday, April 17, 2002, in a house fire. A memorial service was held on Saturday, April 20, in Omaha.

Louis F. Braatz. Jr., was born on October 30, 1959 in Waterloo, Iowa. He was the son of former Garner residents, Louis and Mary (Tyler) Braatz.

Survivors include his four children, Louis Frank III of Topeka, Kansas, Crystal, Wallace and Edwin of Omaha; his parents, Lou and Mary Braatz of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; two sisters, Melinda Classen of Omaha and Laurie Voss of Plattsmouth; three nieces; and a nephew.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Robert "Bob" V. Raecker, 1924-2002

April 24, 2002

Robert ''Bob'' V. Raecker, 78, of Meservey, died on Thursday, April 18, 2002.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, April 23, at the Salem United Methodist Church in Meservey, with the Rev. Dan Voss officiating. Interment was in the Meservey Cemetery. Visitation was from 6-8:00 p.m., at the Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf-Grarup Funeral Home in Meservey.

Bob Raecker, was born on February 17, 1924 at home in Meservey, the son of Garfield E. and Katharine (Foss) Raecker. At a very young age his mother died and his grandmother, Antonette Raecker cared for him. Bob attended the Meservey Consolidated School and graduated from the Meservey High School in 1941. He then worked for the family Chevrolet dealership and Standard Oil garage in Meservey prior to entering the service.

During World War II, Bob entered the Army Air Corps and served with the 8th Air Force. He flew 29 missions as a gunner on B-17s over enemy territory. He was awarded the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters for his service. Bob returned to Meservey following the war and worked with his dad until he took over the dealership.

Bob was united in marriage with Sylvia Maxine Quandt on July 29, 1945, at the Salem United Methodist Church, Meservey.

When he retired from the Chevrolet dealership and garage, he worked as foreman in the ship-out department for Winnebago Industries in Forest City and managed Pals Mobile Homes in Clear Lake. Bob retired in 1984.

Bob was a life time member of the Salem United Methodist Church. He was a member of the William Schmalle Legion Post #171 in Meservey and the 8th Air Force Historical Society. He also served on the Meservey School Board. Bob enjoyed automobiles and his passion earned him an award as one of the top Chevy dealers in the state of Iowa. He also enjoyed watching baseball.

Bob is survived by his wife, Sylvia; son, Dr. Greg (Rena) Raecker of Cedar Falls and grandchildren, Matthew and Anne; sisters, Jeanette (Brady) Johnson of Sulphur, Louisiana and Kathryn (Eldon) Hungerford of Osage; and many nieces, nephews and lots of friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Mary; one granddaughter, Grace Elizabeth; and a sister, Arnelda in infancy.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Elmer Pals, 1915-2002

April 24, 2002

Elmer Pals, 86, died on Thursday, April 18, 2002, at his home in Thornton.

Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., on Monday, April 22, at the Salem United Methodist Church in Meservey, with the Revs. Dan Voss and A. E. Wilkins presiding. Burial was in the Meservey Cemetery. Visitation was from 4-8:00 p.m., on Monday, April 22, at the Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf-Grarup Funeral Home in Meservey. Memorials may be sent to the Hospice of North Iowa or to the family.

Elmer, was born on October 25, 1915 in rural Thornton, to Harm J. and Alida (Sweede) (Goemen) Pals. He attended Wisner Township School through the eighth grade and graduated from the Meservey High School.

On August 20, 1936, he married Marcele Waddingham at the Meservey Reformed Church Parsonage. They immediately started farming in the Meservey/Thornton area and continued a farming career of 41 years. Most of these years were on the family farm, which was certified a Century Farm in 1992. Upon retirement, Elmer and Marcele moved to their current home in Thornton.

Because of his love for children, Elmer helped build the first lighted softball diamond in Meservey and helped start several youth baseball programs. Also, he served on the Meservey-Thornton School Board in the 1960's. One of his proudest accomplishments was in 1950, when he was instrumental in helping his church sponsor the Lipin family from Latvia as they came to America to begin a new life.

Elmer was a long time member of the Meservey EUB/United Methodist Church where he taught Sunday School for 40 years. He and his wife did a lot of traveling and wintered in Dade City, Florida for the past 10 years. Many new, devoted friends were made there.

Elmer is survived by his wife of 65 years, Marcele; four children, Dallas (Kaye) Pals who lives on the family farm, Deloris (Roger) Monson of Nevada, Larry (Darlene) of Cocoa Beach, Florida and Gary (Carla) of Clinton; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Ruth Waddingham of Meservey and Ruth Dorenkamp of Clear Lake.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Hajo, Harm, Albert, Lambert and John; one grandson, Jeffery Pals; and brothers-in-law, Wayne Waddingham and Lewis Dorenkamp.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Iva C. Witte, 1910-2002

April 24, 2002

Iva C. Witte, 92, of Rockwell, died on Thursday, April 18, 2002, at her home.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, April 20, at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockwell, with the Rev. Ronald Bolinger of the St. Peter Lutheran and Lonnie Wilson, former pastor of the First Baptist Church, officiating. Visitation was from 4-8:00 p.m., at the Fullerton Family Funeral Homes in Rockwell and again one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment took place in the Rockwell Cemetery.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to either the St. Peter Lutheran Church or the First Baptist Church.

Iva was born the eldest of two daughters to F. William and Mathilda K. (Mueller) Witte in Geneseo Township, Cerro Gordo County, on January 4, 1910. She graduated from the Rockwell High School in 1928. She then attended nursing school in Minneapolis until her eyesight precluded that occupation. She then worked at the Ewy Grocery Store in Rockwell and then as a telephone operator for the telephone office in Garnavillo, Iowa until its closing in 1937. She returned to Rockwell where she helped care for her parents and later for her sister who proceeded her in death in 1993.

She enjoyed keeping up with friends on the telephone, gardening, loved to fish with her father and others and enjoyed quilt making. She was a member of the St. Peter Lutheran Church but in later life enjoyed attending the Baptist Church and Bible Study, due to its proximity to her home. She was also a member of the Birthday Club.

Iva is survived by many cousins and friends especially, Ken and his wife, Linda Meyer and Roy and his wife, Marlene Struchen of Rockwell.

She was proceeded in death by her parents; and one sister, Irene Witte.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Riley Davis Former Corwith Resident Dies

April 24, 2002

Word has been received from Mick Davis at Fort Washington that his dad, Riley Davis, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2002.

Riley, a former Corwith resident, was 91 years old. His body was cremated and taken to Bethany, Missouri, where he and his wife, Madeline will be buried.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Josephine Heinen, 1916-2002

April 30, 2002

Josphine Mary Heinen, of LuVerne, died on Monday, April 22, 2002, at the Kossuth Regional Health Center in Algona. She was 86.

A Funeral Mass was held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Livermore, on Friday, April 26. The Rev. Daniel Greving officiated. Burial was in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Wesley. Casket bearers were Alan Heinen, Kevin Heinen, David Heinen, Ken Bigelow, Dana Heinen, Michael Heinen, Tony Powers and Neil Carbaugh. The Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf of LuVerne was in charge of the arrangements.

Josephine Mary Heinen, was born on March 11, 1916 at Hardy, Iowa. She was the daughter of Peter and Frances Gertrude (Hines) Birnbaumer. She received her education at the District 3 Country School in Humboldt County. After her schooling, Josephine worked at home.

On February 15, 1939, Josephine married Herman Frank Heinen at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livermore, Iowa. The couple farmed in the Wesley, Corwith and LuVerne areas. They retired to LuVerne in 1983.

Mrs. Heinen was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Livermore, where she also belonged to the Ladies Guild. She enjoyed gardening and playing cards and belonged to a card club in LuVerne. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy in life.

Survivors include her children, Duane Heinen and wife, Sharon of LuVerne, Gerald Heinen and special friend, Annie Smith of Omaha, Nebraska and Norma Powers and husband, John of Cary, North Carolina; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Penny Braverman and husband, Berny of Washington, D.C.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman on March 19, 1999; her parents; an infant daughter, Diane Marie; a son, Roger; one sister, Lucille Steil; and two brothers, Leonard and Raymond Birnbaumer.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Dennis H. Gerdes, 1931-2002

April 30, 2002

Dennis H. Gerdes, 70, of Woden, died on Tuesday, April 23, 2002, at his home in Woden.

His funeral was held on Friday, April 26, 2002, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Woden. The Rev. Arlen Lloyd officiated. Music was provided by organist, Emogene Kurtzleben who accompanied soloist, Cary Brown and congregational hymns. Ushers were Vernon Hanna and Brad Buns.

Casket bearers were Rod Beenken, Lyle Doege, Dale Gerdes, Tim Gerdes, Robert Gerdes and Mike Schimmelpfennig. Interment was in the Bingham Township Cemetery, with military rites conducted by the Woden Veterans Ceremonial Unit. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden was in charge of the arrangements.

Dennis Hilbert Gerdes, the son of William T. and Bertha Dorothy (Gerdes) Gerdes, was born on October 12, 1931 at Algona. He graduated from the Woden High School in 1950. He served his country in the U.S. Army in Korea. After the service he returned to Woden and worked at Gerdes Construction, the family carpentry business.

On June 11, 1960, he married Darlene Sillman at the United Methodist Church in Britt. The couple made their home in Woden. "Duck" continued working as a carpenter the remainder of his life. He enjoyed spending time with his family, working in the garden, fishing and playing cards.

He was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church, the Woden American Legion Post #628 and the Woden Commercial Club. He was also a former Boy Scout Leader.

He is survived by his four children and their families, Gregory Gerdes and his wife, Kathy of Bloomington, Illinois and their two children, Nicolas and Jessica, Debra Schimmelpfennig and her husband, Michael of Woden and their three children, Andrew, Emily and Jacob, Michael Gerdes and his wife, Catherine of Martensdale, Iowa and their daughter, Elizabeth and Valerie Gibbs and her husband, Patrick of Des Plaines, Illinois and their daughter, Olivia; his fiancée, Vi Korte of Woden; three brothers, Paul Gerdes and his wife, Betty of Woden, William Gerdes and his wife, Velma of Woden and James Gerdes and his wife, Helen of Osage; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene Gerdes on July 21, 1981; a granddaughter, Rachel Linn Schimmelpfennig on March 29, 1983; his parents; and a sister-in-law, Geraldine Gerdes on September 3, 1994.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Dorothy L. Gifford

May 7, 2002

Dorothy Louise Gifford, passed away on Monday, April 29, 2002, in Carrollton, Texas.

Funeral services were held at the Metrocrest Funeral Home on Thursday, May 2, at 10:00 s.m. Interment followed in the Hilltop Memorial Park.

Surviving are her daughters, Sherri Ann and husband, Steve Burns and Michelle and husband, Bob Robison; grandchildren, Scott and Shane Burns, Brandon and Amber Robison; sisters, Cathern Meyer and Betty Nall; and brother, John Adams, Jr. and Sunkist.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Edward L. Stupka, 1919-2002

May 7, 2002

Edward L. Stupka, of Kanawha, died on Monday, April 29, 2002, at the Kanawha Nursing Home in Kanawha. He was 83.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 2, at the Holmes Baptist Church in Holmes, Iowa. The Rev. Patrick Odle officiated. Music was provided by Lana Smith who accompanied vocalists, Mark and Mike Stupka and Brad and Miriam Leckrone, as well as several congregational hymns. Ushers were Bill Clark, Jerry Hinton and Kenny Morse.

Burial was in the Amsterdam Township Cemetery, Kanawha. Casket bearers were Mike Hammitt, Brad Leckrone, Andrew Stupka, Mark Stupka, Mike Stupka, Tim Stupka and Troy Stupka. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Kanawha was in charge of the arrangements.

Edward Lewis Stupka, the son of Anton and Christina (Hejlik) Stupka, was born near Lawler, Iowa on February 2, 1919. In 1920, he moved with his parents and sister, Rose to Wisconsin where they purchased a farm and farmed there for 15 years. Ed attended grade school there and high school in Colby. In 1936, the family moved to the Goldfield and Eagle Grove, Iowa area where Edward worked as a farm hand for several farmers.

He married Fern Vroman of Goldfield at the home of her parents in 1940. The Rev. Charles Davis of the Goldfield Baptist Church officiated.

During their first year of marriage, the couple worked as tenants for the Glen Thompson's northwest of Goldfield. They farmed for themselves on the Spencer farm northeast of Clarion. In 1943, they moved to the Keller farm northwest of Clarion, where they farmed until 1960. The couple had two sons, Marvin and Wayne.

In 1960, they moved to the Middleton farm northeast of Renwick, where they lived until 1973. They moved to Kanawha when Mr. Stupka was employed by Broshar Implement as a salesman. He continued to farm east of Kanawha as well as his father's farmstead north of Garner. During the last few years, Mr. Stupka worked part time for several farmers. The Stupkas moved to the retirement apartments on West 6th Street in Kanawha.

He was reared in the Catholic faith as a child and later joined the Baptist Church in Holmes. He was baptized by the Rev. Lloyd Holm. Mr. Stupka was an active member of the church where he served as a deacon and later received a plaque from the Holmes Baptist Church for over 40 years as senior usher. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his church and his brothers and sisters in the Lord.

Survivors include a son, Marvin and his wife, Mary of Kanawha and a son, Wayne of Kanawha; 7 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Those who preceded him in death were his wife of 59 years, Fern Stupka; his brother, Frank and his wife, Rose; his sister, Rose Unger and her husband, Harry.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002