Anna A. Carolus, 87, of Garner, died on Thursday, May 1, 2003, at the Good Samaritan Center, Forest City.

Her funeral was held on Monday, May 5, at the United Methodist Church in Klemme, with the Rev. Paddy Druhl officiating. Music was provided by organist, Margaret Tue who accompanied congregational hymns. Ushers were Everett Guth and John Schwichtenberg.

Casket bearers were her grandchildren, David Jontz, Carol Ann Juhl, Dale Rayhons, Sara Abbas, Gary Rayhons, Rodney Beier, Randy Beier, Jeff Beier, Jill Freel, Barbara Ralston, Dawn Campos, Brad Carolus and Dan Carolus. Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner was in charge of the arrangements.

Anna Adaline Carolus, the daughter of Albert and Rosetta (Schwichtenberg) Tanner, was born on September 20, 1915 near Garner. She attended the rural schools of Ell Township, the Goodell High School and graduated from the Klemme High School in 1935.

On January 21, 1936, she married Richard Carolus at the Methodist Parsonage in Clarion. They farmed in the Belmond and Klemme areas until 1971, when they retired and moved into Garner.

Anna became a resident of the Concord Care Center in Garner in 1994 and later moved to the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City. She enjoyed cooking, baking and gardening. She was a life time member of the United Methodist Church in Klemme and the UMW.

Survivors include her children, Carolyn Jontz of San Bernardino, California, Marvalyn Rayhons and her husband, Henry of Garner, Donna Beier and her husband, Robert of Pleasantville and Keith Carolus and his wife, Roberta of Klemme; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; two brothers, George Tanner of Garner and Walter Tanner and his wife, Lois of Mason City; two sisters, Lorraine Houdek of Aurora, Minnesota and Beverly Prescott of Klemme; and a sister-in-law, Lucille Tanner of Mason City.

Adeane Hejlik, of Britt, died on Friday, May 2, 2003, at the Westview Care Center in Britt. She was 67.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, May 6, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt. The Rev. Jerry Blake officiated. Mike Hejlik was the lector. Music was provided by organist, Brenda Smith who accompanied vocalists, Allison and Amber Hejlik. Allan Doughan and Marvin Holck ushered.

Burial was in the St. John's Catholic Cemetery, Duncan. Casket bearers were, Luke Wiggins, Matt Wiggins, Nick Hejlik, Ryan Hejlik, Jarom Bagley, Micah Hejlik and Reed Hejlik. The Ewing Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Adeane, the daughter of Anthony and Martha (Cink) Grandgenett, was born on October 28, 1935 in Algona. She graduated from the LuVerne High School and then attended Hamilton Business College in Mason City. She was employed as a receptionist for Dr. Braye in Algona until she was married.

In 1955, she was united in marriage to Cletus Hejlik. The couple farmed three miles east of Britt where they raised their eight children. They traveled to Florida and Arizona and enjoyed playing golf and tennis. Adeane truly enjoyed her Monte Vista home in Mesa, Arizona. Following the death of her husband in 1993, she moved to Britt.

Adeane was a member of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt, the Catholic Daughters of America, and the American Legion.

Survivors include eight children, John and his wife, Becky of Britt, Joe and his wife, Dawn of Byron, Minnesota, Jim and his wife, Judy of Mead, Colorado, Diane Ward and her husband, Marty of Manchester, Dee Ashpool and her husband, Tony of Kenilworth, England, Leann Wiggins and her husband, Mark of Stafford, Virginia, Mike and his wife, Kristi of Britt and Jeff of Rochester, Minnesota; and 22 grandchildren.

Also surviving are four brothers, Larry Grandgenett and his wife, Joann of Wesley, Leroy Grandgenett and his wife, Marilyn of Algona, Paul Grandgenett and his wife, Evelyn of Wesley, Jim Grandgenett and his wife, Joyce of Algona; two sisters, Carol Barlow of Mason City and Mary Lou Crawford and her husband, Ralph of Treasure Island, Florida.

Marjorie A. Blank, 67, of Britt, died on Saturday, May 3, 2003, at the St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota.

Her funeral was held on Monday, May 5, at the United Methodist Church in Garner, with the Rev. Kay Hooper officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied soloist, Bernie Urich and a congregational hymn. Ushers were Marvin and Maynard Schoneman.

Casket bearers were Daniel Fabich, Patrick Fabich, Bryant Blank, Joseph Fabich, Wesley Fabich, Tom Wellik, Brent Weaver, Jim Prohaska, Brad Farnham and Scott Novak. Honorary bearers were the Hancock County Memorial Hospital and Summit House staff. Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Gamer. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Marjorie Ann Blank, the daughter of Frank J. and Frances (Urich) Brozik, was born on October 23, 1935 in Mason City. She attended the Hayfield Consolidated School and graduated from the Hayfield High School in 1953.

On October 21, 1956, she was married to Curtis Keith Blank at the Hayfield Methodist Church. They made their home in Hayfield, where she helped Curt on the farm and worked at Winnebago Industries in Forest City. From 1980 to 2001, she was employed at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt as marketing director. She also worked at Classic Catering in Garner and was a co-manager of the Summit House in Britt. In September of 2002, she moved to the Summit House.

Marj enjoyed reading, embroidery, gardening and especially spending time with her family and friends. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Garner and the UMW.

Survivors include her mother, Frances Brozik, 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; seven grandchildren, Daniel Fabich, Lindsey Blank, Patrick Fabich, Bryant Blank, Sarah Fabich, Joey Fabich and Wesley Blank; two uncles, Rudy Urich and his wife, Dorothy of Garner and Elmer Urich of Garner; and an aunt, Eleanor Brozik of Garner.

Funeral services for Thomas D. Trappe, 23, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 14, at the Salem Lutheran Church. The Rev. Jay Dahlvang will officiate.

Thomas Trappe died on Friday, May 9, 2003, at his home following a 1 1/2 year struggle with cancer.

Burial will be in the Graceland Cemetery. Visitation is from 4-8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 13, at the Bayview Freeborn Funeral Home and one hour prior to the services at the church.

Thomas Degn Trappe, was born on October 23, 1979, to Roger Lee and Candace Lee (Thomas) Trappe in Britt. The family moved to Albert Lea where he attended Halvorson, Brookside, Southwest and Albert Lea Senior High School. He was a member of the Salem Lutheran Church. He was an employee of Bridon Cordage for over three years.

On February 10, 2003, he was united in marriage to Sheena Marie Blakestad in Albert Lea. Tom enjoyed basketball, BMX biking and car audio competitions.

Survivors include his parents; his wife, Sheena; brother, Kenneth and wife, Lori Trappe and their children; a sister, Jennifer Trappe and her son; grandparents, Evelyn and Dwyne Degn and Elmer and Mary Trappe; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Walter F. Best, 68, of Garner, died on Friday, May 9, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

His funeral was held on Monday, May 12, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner, with the Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Music was provided by organist, Carolyn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Robert Kral and Lawrence Engstler.

Casket bearers were, Jon Best, Erick Best, Michael Best, Joe Best, Dennis Best and Larry Best. Burial was in the St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Walter Frank Best, the son of Herman and Vera (Young) Best, was born on December 4, 1934 at Pomeroy. He moved with his family to Garner and graduated from the Garner High School in 1954. Walter worked as a depot agent for the Milwaukee Railroad from 1958 to 1965. In 1967, he made his home at Duncan Heights and in 1998 moved to the Concord Care Center in Garner.

He was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing his accordion and remembering people's birthdays.

Walter is survived by his brothers, Robert Best and his wife, Barbara of Garner, Dennis Best of Clear Lake and Larry Best and his wife, Mary of Grimes; and many nieces and nephews.

Bertha L. Roth, 80, of Woden, died on Saturday, May 10, 2003, at the Titonka Care Center, Titonka.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 13, at the First Presbyterian Church in Woden, with Judy Junkermeier, lay pastor officiating. Music was provided by organist, Doris Leeck who accompanied soloist, Cary Brown and congregational hymns. Keith Lamaak ushered.

Casket bearers were, Eric Arneson, Michael Roth, Troy Halvorsen, Robert Roth, Franklin Roth, James Roth, Donavan Schwartz, Cory Hamilton, Mattew Hamilton and Joshua Davis. Burial was in the Olena Mound Cemetery, Buffalo Center. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden was in charge of the arrangements.

Bertha Lenore Roth, the daughter of Henry and Anna Josephine Eliza (Selhorn) Friesenborg, was born on May 14, 1922, on a farm near Buffalo Center. She attended school at Buffalo Center where she graduated from high school in 1940. She later attained a Normal Teacher's Teaching Certificate.

On September 8, 1941, she was married to George Roth at the Lutheran Parsonage in Elmore, Minnesota. They farmed south of Buffalo Center until 1976, when they retired and moved into Woden. She became a resident of the Titonka Care Center in June of 1999.

Bertha enjoyed doing word puzzles, spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and preparing meals for all.

She was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church in Woden.

Bernard "Bud" Greiman, of Garner, died on Sunday, May 11, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City. He was 82.

His funeral was held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, May 16, at the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner, with the Rev. Darrell Weber officiating. Music was provided by organist, Margaret Jass who accompanied congregational hymns. Special music was provided by Joe Hale. Ushers were Allan DeWitt, Calvin Josten and Willis Davison.

Casket bearers were Jed Hale, Daniel Hale, Wes Hale, Rob Petersen, Todd Greiman and Ronald Anderson. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery with military rites by the Garner Veterans Ceremonial Unit. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Bernard "Bud" Roy Greiman, the second of four children of Henry August and Emma Louise (Schultz) Greiman, was born on July 4, 1920, on a farm southwest of Garner. He was baptized and confirmed at the Peace Reformed Church. Bud attended the rural schools of Liberty Township and the Garner High School. He served in the U.S. Army during WW II in the Pacific Theatre. He was a member of the Garner VFW Post 5515 and the American Legion.

On December 20, 1946, he married Carrie Amanda Anderson at the Ellington Prairie Lutheran Church near Miller. They farmed southwest of Garner until retiring in 1992. In his retirement years, Bud enjoyed his time with Carrie on the farm, gardening, keeping up the yard and the blessing of their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He taught himself to make furniture and other smaller woodworking projects in his later years and enjoyed giving them to family and friends. He was a member of the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner. Through the years his love for the Lord Jesus was his anchor more and more.

Survivors include his wife, Carrie of Garner; his six children, LaDonna Mourning of Rochester, Minnesota and her two daughters, Carrie Mourning and Kelli Gendron and her husband, Mark, Annalee Hale and her husband, Joe of Memphis, Tennessee and their four sons, Ben Hale and his wife, Jessica, Daniel Hale, Jedidiah Hale and Wesley Hale, Vickie Greiman of Ankeny, Beth Greiman of Ankeny, Garrett Greiman of Sycamore, Illinois and Tracy Petersen and her husband, Robert of Des Moines and their son, Alex Petersen; four great grandchildren, Jordan, Cedi, Franci and Isabella; his sister, Marj Finn of Garner; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Richard A. Willier, of rural Nora Springs, died on Monday, May 12, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City. He was 47.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 15, at the Riverside Friends Church, Mason City, with Rev. John N. Bates of the Eden Presbyterian Church of Rudd, and the Rev. Spencer Thury of Riverside Friends Church, officiating. The Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Funeral Home of Mason City was in charge of the arrangements.

Richard Willier, was born on May 28, 1955 in Mason City, son of Ralph and Eula (Taylor) Willier. He graduated from the North Central High School in 1973. He lived in Mason City for many years and was employed at Curries Manufacturing for nearly 20 years.

He was united in marriage to Amber Zeigler on June 7, 1999 in Moorhead, Minnesota. The couple moved to rural Nora Springs in 1999.

Richard courageously battled diabetes for many years, but he never let it interfere with the things he enjoyed doing in life. He also loved doing many outdoor activities with his wife and children. He was a member of the Eden Presbyterian Church in Rudd.

Survivors include his wife, Amber of rural Nora Springs; his father, Ralph Willier of Leland; four step-children, Eric, Danielle, and Joey of rural Nora Springs and Dean of Mason City; four sisters, Judy and Roger Beenken of Nora Springs, Jerrie Klitzke of Lacrosse, Wisconsin, Ruth Willier of Mason City and Judy Johnson of Forest City; his mother-in-law, Maxine Zeigler of Corwith; a sister-in-law, Nelda and Kelly Jackson of Garner; two brothers-in-law, Ronnie Zeigler of Britt and David and Blanche Zeigler of Corwith; Carol Willier of Mason City; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Mrs. Long were held on Saturday, May 17, at the St John Lutheran Church of Corwith. The Rev. Robert Bronson officiated. A special reading of the poem, "Life's Pathway" was given by Curt Johnson. Music was provided by Helen Burrington, who accompanied soloist, Diane Nall and congregation hymns.

Casket bearers were Erica Dobson, John Dobson, Brent Long, Carl Long, Daniel Long and Kent Long. Burial was in the Corwith Cemetery. The Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf Funeral Home of Corwith was in charge of the arrangements.

Emily Beatrice Long, was born on April 17, 1922 at Badger. The daughter of Adolph and Bessie Carrie (Nelson) Johnson. Emily was baptized and confirmed at the Badger Lutheran Church. She graduated from the Eagle Grove High School in 1940, and upon earning her teaching certificate, taught school in rural Corwith and Klemme. Emily also attended Drake University in Des Moines.

She was employed for a number of years for Drs. Smith and Hogenson in Eagle Grove. She then resumed her professional education career at the middle school in Eagle Grove, as the Reading Media Specialist until her retirement.

On January 17, 1942, Emily was united in marriage to Carl Robinson Long of Corwith. They were married in Chillicothe, Missouri, by the Rev. Sterling Ward. They had three children, Carl David, James Michael and Sherrie Diane.

Carl and Emily farmed in Corwith for a number of years before moving to Eagle Grove. After Carl's retirement, they returned to Corwith. She remained in Corwith until moving to the Prairie View Apartments in Garner in May of 2001.

Emily remained actively involved in her church life, her friends and her community. She served as Past Worthy Matron of the Order of Eastern Star, past president of the Corwith Federated Club, and was a member of the Royal Neighbor Club and Delta Club. She enjoyed playing Scrabble, dominoes, bridge, 500 and her daily crossword puzzles.

She was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church, Corwith, where she enjoyed attending Circle and being a Bible study leader. She also belonged to the St. John's Lutheran Church quilting group.

Survivors include her children, Carl David and wife, Joan of Postville and Sherrie Dianne Dobson and husband Larry of Chaska, Minnesota. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, Daniel Long and wife, Sharon, Kent Long, Carl D. Long and wife, Mandy, Brent D. Long and wife, Lori, Lisa and Kory Long, John C. Dobson and wife, Heather and Erica Ann Dobson; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Survivors also include a sister, Genevive Hamer of Eagle Grove; two brothers, Charles Jr. Johnson of Eagle Grove and Richard D. Johnson of Punta Gordo, Florida; sister-in-law, Alice C. Lederer of Sun City West, Arizona; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lester W. Gayken, of Britt, 75, died of natural causes on Wednesday, May 14, 2003. He passed on in comfort and in the company of his family.

Graveside memorial services were held on Saturday, May 17, 2003, at the St. Patrick's Cemetery in Britt. The Rev. Robert Dodge officiated. Military rites were provided by the Britt Ceremonial Unit. Services were under the direction of the Ewing Funeral Chapel of Britt.

Lester Gayken, the son of Frank and Anna Marie Gayken, was born in Britt on February 22, 1928. He attended the Britt Schools. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1944. It was during his second tour of duty, while stationed in Stockton, California, that he was united in marriage to Lois (Clark) Gayken. The couple had two sons, Robert and Jim and a daughter, Charlla. The family returned to Britt in 1952.

Lester was a carpenter and co-founder of Love & Gayken Construction (1958-1978). He left his mark in and around the community by putting up many structures that will remain standing for years to come. He retired from the business in 1983 and traveled around the country with his wife, visiting family members throughout the United States. He enjoyed visiting, playing cribbage and golf.

Survivors include his three children, Bob Gayken and his wife, Dorie of Roundtop, Texas, Charlla Lundgren of Britt and Jim Gayken and his wife, Dawn of Britt; three grandchildren, Erik, Beth, and Paul; two great-grandchildren, Austin and Caitlyn; one brother, Bud Gayken of Britt; and three sisters, Verna Brown of Britt, Blanche Gill of Britt and Blondie Peterson of Goodell.

Catherine A. (Rose) Mortensen, of Britt, died on Sunday, May 18, 2003. She was 75.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 22, at the Ewing Funeral Chapel in Britt. The Rev. Robert Dodge officiated. Music was provided by organist, Tammy Johnson who accompanied vocalist, Becky Nielsen.

Burial was in the Crystal Lake Cemetery. The Ewing Funeral home was in charge of the arrangements. Casket bearers were Jeff Nielsen, Ned Harle, Dan Schultz, Paul Buns, Doug Doughan and Tom Rose.

Catherine Ann (Rose) Mortensen, the daughter of Howard and Elizabeth Ragen Rose, was born on February 9, 1928 in Forest City. She graduated from the Crystal Lake High School in 1945, and earned her teaching certificate at the Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls.

On June 12, 1949, Catherine and John H. Mortensen were married at the Little Brown Church in the Vale in Nashua. The couple lived in Moline, Illinois, for a time and later moved back to the farm north of Britt. After returning to Britt, Catherine taught country school for a couple of years.

Catherine enjoyed golfing, being a homemaker and loved gardening and going for walks.

Survivors include one son, Todd Mortensen and his wife, Betsy of Britt; one daughter, Lisa Greiman and her husband, Mark of Athol, Idaho; a granddaughter, Morgan Friesth of Britt; three sisters, Ellen Robbins of Kerrville, Texas, Grace Culhane of Chicago, Illinois, Nancy Buns and her husband, Maurice of Woden; one brother, Walter Rose and his wife, Marge of Crystal Lake; and several nieces and nephews.

Gerald "Pete" Back, 83 of Ventura, died on Monday, May 19, 2003, in Clear Lake.

Funeral services were held on Friday, May 23, at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, with the Reverend Dennis Ganz officiating. Burial was in the Clear Lake Cemetery with military honors by the Garner VFW. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of North Iowa in his memory.

Gerald G. Back, was born on October 10, 1919 in Klemme. He was the son of Chris and Maye (McDorman) Back. He attended and received his education in the rural country schools in Hancock County.

During World War II, Pete was one of the first draftees from Hancock County and served in the Army overseas in the European Theater during the War. After his honorable discharge he came back to north Iowa and farmed his entire life until his retirement. While farming he also worked construction in Britt and drove truck. After his retirement, he worked in a sales barn every Monday in Garner and the last being in Algona.

He enjoyed raising Percheron Draft horses, using horse drawn farm equipment, and loved and enjoyed working on his farm and raising animals. He was a member of the Garner VFW.

Survivors include a sister, Opal Mathre of Mason City; a niece, Julie Montgomery and her husband, Gene of Mason City; a nephew, Tom Mathre of Oskaloosa; a great-niece and nephew, Darcy Madden of Mason City and Michael Raab and his wife, Kelly of Littleton, Colorado; 2 great-great-nephews, Derek Madden of Mason City and Calvin Raab of Littleton, Colorado; and a very special friend of 42 years, Luella Marshall of Clear Lake; as well as other relatives and friends.

Dean E. Weiland, 65, of Britt, died on Monday, May 19, 2003, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 22, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Britt. The Rev. Jerry Blake officiated. Music was provided by Brenda Smith who accompanied vocalists, Cathy Weiland and Ruth Thill. Allan Doughan, Marvin Holck and Roger Jacobson ushered.

Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. The Ewing Funeral Chapel was in charge of the arrangements. Casket bearers were Brian Weiland, Rick Burgardt, David Weiland, Rob Hulse, Ed Smith, Brian Nedved, Michael Conaway and Matt Nedved.

Dean Earl Weiland, was born on October 14, 1937 at Mason City. He was the son of Clarence Cornelius and Leona Mary (Monson) Weiland. He attended and graduated from the Britt High School in 1955. Following graduation, he farmed for a few years before entering the United States Army Reserves. He was enlisted for six months.

On July 16, 1962, Dean was united in marriage to Elaine Nedved at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan. The couple made their home in Britt where they raised their family. He owned a tanker truck and worked for Standard Oil for some time. He became a salesperson for Britt Implement in Britt and later for the Wellik-DeWitt Implement in Duncan. Most recently he was a driver for Velocity Express of Clear Lake. He retired in January of 2002.

Dean was a member of the Britt Volunteer Fire Department for 23 years and a member of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church. He enjoyed fishing, golf, gardening, and playing cards. He cherished time spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Elaine of Britt; four children and their families, Randy and Julene Weiland and their children, Cole and Seth of Britt, John and Cathy Weiland and their children, Kaylee, Logan, and Lucas of Britt, Carleen and Steve Fettkether and their children, Hunter and Isaac of Mason City; and Douglas and Jennifer Weiland of Britt

Also surviving are his sisters and brothers, Imogene Burgardt and her husband, John of Britt, Darlene Dunbar of Britt, Lois Conaway and her husband, Charles of Britt, Diane McKinney and her husband, Roger of Queen Creek, Arizona, Clarence Weiland and his wife, Bernice of Storm Lake and Don Weiland and his wife, Darlene of Britt; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Raymond C. Fisher, died on Thursday, May 22, 2003, at the Westview Care Center in Britt. He was 87.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 24, at the United Methodist Church in Corwith. The Rev. Dan Fernandez officiated. Music was provided by Sharon Gourley who accompanied soloist, Diane Nall and several congregational hymns.

Burial was in the Corwith Cemetery. Military graveside rites were provided by the American Legion Elmer Wilson Post #229. Casket bearers were Tom Garman, Theodore Fisher, Tony Claude, Brent Lester, Michael Humphrey, Tom Haan, Ted Claude and Stacy Detima. The Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaff Funeral Home of Corwith was in charge of the arrangements.

Ravmond Conrad Fisher, was born on November 16, 1915 in Havelock. He was the son of Theodore and Magdalena (Schbaker) Fisher. He grew up in the area as his parents moved to different farms. He attended school in Havelock. Afterwards he helped his father on the farm before joining the Civilian Conservation Corps in Boone.

On November 16, 1938, Raymond Fisher and Lurlia Adreon were married at Jackson, Minnesota. The couple lived in Baraboo, Wisconsin, where he worked as a steamfitter. In 1940, he was drafted in the United States Navy until being honorably discharged in 1942. They returned to Corwith where they ran the local restaurant for ten years before moving to Mason City where Raymond began to paint.

After two years, they moved to Garner where they ran Fisher's Cafe. Mr. Fisher continued to paint interiors and exteriors of homes. The returned to Corwith in May of 2001.

Raymond enjoyed golfing, bowling and wintering in Texas which they did for the last 20 years. He was a member of the VFW, Corwith United Methodist Church and a past member of the Masonic Lodge.

Survivors include his wife, Lurlia, of Corwith; daughters, Linda and her husband, John Humphrey of Centerville; Susan and her husband, Butch of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are brothers and sisters, Eva Jordan of Algona, Ted and Luella Fisher of Fairmont, Minnesota, George and Charlotte Fisher of LuVerne, Victor Fisher of Livermore, Dan and Betty Fisher of Algona, Willis Fisher of Sioux City, Paul and Carol Fisher of California and Jack and Lillian Fisher of Stacyville; and many nieces and nephews.

George A. Stille, of Garner, formerly of the Goodell and Klemme areas, died on Sunday, May 25, 2003, at the Concord Care Center in Garner. He was 88.

Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, May 29, at the United Methodist Church in Goodell, with the Rev. Paddy Druhl officiating. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery in Klemme. The Dugger Ewing Funeral Home of Belmond was in charge of the arrangements.

George Allen, the son of J. J. and Clara (Gast) Stille, was born on October 11, 1914 near Klemme. George grew up near Klemme, where he attended country schools.

He was united in marriage to Ina A. Berghefer on October 16, 1934, at the parsonage in Klemme. The couple made their home in Spencer, where George worked on road construction for seven years.

George and Ina returned to Goodell in 1941. George worked for the Hancock County road crew and was a maintainer for 36 years. The couple lived east of Goodell for 50 years. They moved to the Prairie View Apartments in Garner in 1998. Mr. Stille was a member of the United Methodist Church in Goodell.

He is survived by his wife, Ina; two daughters, Maxine Dresbach and husband, Mac of Mason City and Sharyl Stadtlander and husband, Marlin of Garner; three sons, Wayne and wife, Gloria of Goodell, Kenton of Poolsville, Texas, Lynn and wife, Janice of Davenport; 15 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Fern Carlson of Clear Lake and Lucille Bridges and husband, Cecil of Thornton; two sisters-in-law, Grace of Klemme and Minnie of Clear Lake; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Ruby M. Kurtz, a native of Klemme and a resident of the Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake, died on Monday, May 26, 2003, at the care center. She was 90

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 31, at the Klemme United Methodist Church. The Rev. Paddy Druhl officiated. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme.

The Tenold-Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme, was in charge of the arrangements. The family suggests memorials may be given to the Klemme United Methodist Church or to the donor's choice.

Ruby (Miller) Kurtz, was born on September 24, 1912 in Thornton, the daughter of Erastus and Margaret (Hansen) Miller. In her youth she was raised by her grandparents, Hans and Bessie Hansen. She attended Klemme Schools, graduating in 1931.

Ruby was united in marriage to William (Bill) H. Kurtz on February 21, 1933, at the Klemme United Methodist Church Parsonage. Following their marriage, the couple moved to her grandfather's farm which Hans Hansen had homesteaded.

In addition to assisting her husband with the farming duties, Mrs. Kurtz was a life long home maker. She enjoyed times spent with her children and grandchildren and looked forward to hosting family gatherings.

After her husband's death in 1966, she purchased a home in Klemme, living there for 16 years. She was able to take part in many more activities. Ruby enjoyed traveling to visit her daughter, playing cards, cross stitch, and visiting with her friends and family. She was a long time member of the Grandmother's Club in Klemme and the UMCW at the Klemme United Methodist Church where she was a member. Ruby also enjoyed raising flowers.

In 1982, she moved to the Prairie View Apartments in Garner, living there for ten years. She then moved to the Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake, where she resided the past ten and one-half years.

Former Garner resident, Jerry D. VanOort, of Colfax, died on Monday, May 26, 2003, at the Skiff Medical Center in Newton. He was 46.

Funeral services were held on Thursday_, May 29, at the Colfax United Methodist Church. The Rev. Jill Flyr officiated. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Walters-Coburn Funeral Home of Colfax was in charge of the arrangements.

Jerry Dean VanOort, was born on September 9, 1956 at Britt. He was the son of Cornie and Sharon (Yohn) VanOort. He was a 1975 graduate of the Garner-Hayfield Community School.

On October 21, 1978, Jerry VanOort and Marsha Bang were married at Garner. He was employed as a mechanic for the Sara Lee Company at Ankeny. Jerry resided at Colfax for 21 years where he was a former member of the Colfax City Council and Colfax Fire Department. He enjoyed auto racing and working on cars.

Survivors include his wife, Marsha VanOort of Colfax; two sons, Levi VanOort and his wife, Jenny of Cedar Rapids and Jerry "Jigs" VanOort of Colfax; two daughters, Nikki and her husband, Jeff Gieseks of Owatonna, Minnesota and Raine VanOort of Iowa City; his mother, Sharon Larson of Crystal Lake; and three grandchildren.

Also surviving are three brothers, Randy and Mark VanOort, both of Des Moines, Casey VanOort of Texas; and a sister, Shelley Wangsness of Ankeny.

Wilbur "Spike" Otterbeck, Sr., of Miller, formerly of the Dubuque area, died on Tuesday, May 27, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City. He was 79.

An informal gathering was held on Saturday, May 31, at the Swiss Valley Park in Dubuque. Mr. Otterbeck's body was donated to medical science.

Wilbur "Spike" Merle Otterbeck Sr., the son of William and Ella (Steele) Otterbeck, was born on September 9, 1923 at Strawberry Point. He received his education in the schools of Clayton County.

He married Carol Warner who preceded him in death in 1986. He was employed by H & W Trucking in Dubuque for many years.

On April 4. 1998, he married Maxine Rollins at McGregor, Iowa. For the past four years, they made their home on a farm near Miller. He enjoyed fishing and his pet bull "Hershey".

He is survived by his wife, Maxine Otterbeck of Miller; his children, Steve Otterbeck of Potosi, Wisconsin, Deb Johnson of McGregor, Greg Otterbeck of Appleton, Wisconsin and Dave Otterbeck of Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin; a step-son, Rex Hale of Miller; two step-daughters, Yavonne McGrew of Justin, Texas and JoAnn Truhlicka of Winter Garden, Florida; a sister, Marlana Lolli of Des Moines; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Richard Smith. 62, of Crystal Lake, died on Tuesday, May 27, 2003, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 31, 2003, at the Calvary Lutheran Church of Crystal Lake. The Rev. Robert Snitzer officiated. Music was provided by pianist, Mrs. James Larson who accompanied soloists, Bruce Wubben and congregational hymns. Burial was in the Crystal Lake Cemetery. Graveside military services were provided by the Crystal Lake American Legion Post #409. The Ewing Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Casket bearers were Mike Rumeliote, Joey Smith, Donavon Smith, Brian Swenson, Mike Johnson and Ken Asborne. Honorary bearers were Les Kirschbaum, Kim Johnson, Dennis Johnson, Randy Johnson, Nicole Wright and Hayley Wright.

Richard Smith, the son of Lorraine (Belle) Ross and Orrin Smith was born on May 19, 1941, at the family home near Crystal Lake in Hancock County. He attended country school and completed his education in the Crystal Lake School. He served in the United States Army from 1961 until 1963, which included a tour in Wifcken, Germany.

On May 26, 1968, he was united in marriage with Marjorie Swenson at West Prairie Church in Leland. The couple made their home in Crystal Lake where Richard worked several jobs. Most recently he was employed by Morgan Drive Away delivering motor homes. He was forced to retire early due to health problems.

He was a member of the Leland VFW and Crystal Lake Legion Post #409. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping with his nephews and nieces.

Richard is survived by his wife, Marjorie; great niece, (who Richard and Marjorie raised) Nicole Johnson Wright of Troy, Texas; a granddaughter, Hayley Wright; brother, Paul and Diane Smith of Crystal Lake; brother-in-law, Harold and Judy Swenson of Leland; sisters-in-law, Helen Stohr of Forest City, Sheryl and Don Hall of Sheffield; eight nephews; three nieces; and many great nieces and nephews.

Amy Elisabeth Dornbier, of Wesley, died on Wednesday, May 28, 2003, at the Kossuth Regional Health Center, Algona, from injuries sustained in an auto accident south of Sexton. She was 32.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 31, at the United Methodist Church, Corwith. The Rev. Dan Fernandez officiated. Music was provided by organist, Sharon Gourley who accompanied soloist, Jonathan Chambers and congregational hymns.

Casket bearers were Johnathan Chambers, Dwight Dornbier, Dennis Dornbier, Chad Stevens, Dale Dornbier and Damon Dornbier. Burial was in the Corwith Cemetery. The Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf Funeral Home of Wesley was in charge of the arrangements.

Amy Elisabeth Dornbier, was born on April 21, 1971, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital, Britt. She was the daughter of Norman and Dianne (Landsberg) Chambers. As a young girl, Amy was active in Brownies, Girl Scouts and 4-H, She graduated from the C-W-L High School in Corwith in 1989 where she was a cheerleader and participated in vocal music and band.

Amy received her Associate of Arts Degree from the North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City. She attended St. Catherine's College in St. Paul, Minnesota, for one year and received an OCTA degree from Austin Community College in Austin, Minnesota, graduating with honors.

She was married to Derwin Dornbier on July 9, 1994, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wesley. The couple lived on a farm near Wesley, where Derwin farmed. Amy worked at Rehab Visions in Fort Dodge for eight and one-half years, and recently was employed at Millennium Rehab of Fort Dodge.

She was a member of the Corwith United Methodist Church. She enjoyed putting together photo albums and working on the family tree. Her greatest joy in life was being with friends and family, especially her two precious little girls, Sydney and Ryley.

Survivors include her husband, Derwin Dornbier; and her daughters, Sydney and Ryley of rural Wesley. Also surviving are her parents, Norman and Dianne Chambers, rural Corwith; her brother, Jonathan Chambers and wife, Paula of rural Corwith; and her sister, Emily Stevens and husband, Chad of Norwalk.

Other survivors include her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert and Rosemary Snyder of Wesley; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts and uncles.

Orville C. Thompson, 92, of Britt, died on Friday, May 30, 2003, at the Mercy Medical Center North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 3, at the United Methodist Church of Britt. The Rev. Robert Dodge officiated. Music was provided by organist, Tammy Johnson who accompanied vocalist, Danny Hetland.

Casket bearers were Danny Hetland, Tory Hetland, John Thompson, Jason Thompson, Tracy Thompson and Kevin Thompson. Honorary bearers were Lori Crouse, Jody Thompson and Jackie Weill. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery. The Ewing Funeral Home, Britt, was in charge of the arrangements.

Orville Thompson, the son of Harry I. and Bertina (Peterson) T'hompson, was born on March 9, 1911 at Forest City. He graduated from the Forest City High School and attended Waldorf College in Forest City.

On February 22, 1936, he was united in marriage with Ruth Hutchens at Forest City. The couple farmed in the Forest City and Crystal Lake areas until 1948. They moved to a farm west of Britt where Orville was a DeKalb Seed Corn Dealer for a number of years. Orville and Ruth continued farming until 1977, when they moved into Britt.

Mr. Thompson was a member of the Britt United Methodist Church. He served as President of the Hancock County Saddle Club and was a member of a card club. He enjoyed traveling, wintering in Weslaco, Texas, hunting, fishing, and woodworking.

Survivors include his son, Tommy Thompson and his wife, Janet of Rockwell; daughter, Janice Hetland and her husband, Dean of Ellsworth; daughter-in-law, Bonnie Newgard and husband, Rich of Laurens; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are two sisters, Thora Clauson and her husband, Donald of Forest City and Elaine Vergeront of Riverside, California; two brothers, Terry Thompson and his wife, Elnora of Forest City and Richard Thompson and his wife, Darlene of Crystal Lake; long time friend, Adala Bailey of Britt; and numerous relatives and friends.