Henry Carolus, 1913-2005

April 13, 2005

Henry Carolus, 91, of Belmond, died on Friday, April 1, 2005, at the Belmond Health Care Center.

Funeral services were held on Monday, April 4, at the United Methodist Church in Belmond. The Rev. Mike Druhl officiated. Jen Eddleman gave the eulogy. Music was provided by organist, Dona Cleveland who accompanied soloist, Marilyn Janssen and congregational hymns.

Casket bearers were Kole Kapp, Mike Sinclair, Jay Carolus, Darin Carolus, Colin Carolus, Grant Carolus, Joel Eddleman and Todd Sears. Burial was in the Belmond Cemetery. The Dugger-Ewing Funeral Home of Belmond was in charge of the arrangements.

Henry, the son of Albert and Dorothy Mussle Carolus, was born on November 9, 1913, in Klemme. He grew up and attended school in Klemme.

On April 5, 1935, Henry was united in marriage with Julane Osheim of Thompson. The family made their home and farmed in the Galt, Clarion, Garner and Goodell areas. Following their retirement from farming, they moved to an acreage north of Belmond.

Henry was employed at Winnebago Industries until retiring in 1979. He became a resident of the Belmond Health Care Center in 2000.

Henry enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, tending his garden, fishing and sitting in his swing on the acreage watching the cars. He enjoyed playing cards until the time of his death.

Survivors include his wife, Julane; sons, Jerry Carolus and Jean of Hampton and Del Carolus and Dorothy of Waterloo; daughter, Diane Dougherty and Ron of Ankeny; eight grandchildren, Jerilyn Kapp and Kole of Rockingham, North Carolina, Jaci Sinclair and Mike of Marshalltown, Jay Carolus and Sheila of Oskaloosa, Darin Carolus and Nancy of Reno, Nevada, Colin Carolus and Jenny of Waterloo, Grant Carolus and Holly of Waterloo, Jen Eddleman and Joel of West Des Moines, Jill Sears and Todd of Overland Park, Kansas; 19 great-grandchildren; six great-great- grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Esther Carolus of Clarion; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, ten brothers and sisters.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Mathilda Eenhuis, 1914-2005

April 13, 2005

Mathilda E. Eenhuis, 90, of Garner, died on Tuesday, April 5, 2005, at the Oakwood Care Center, Clear Lake.

Funeral services were held on Friday, April 8, at the Peace Reformed Church, rural Garner, with the Rev. Jeff DeBoer officiating. Music was provided by organist, Connie Greiman who accompanied soloist, Brent Renner and congregational hymns. Ushers were Bill Katter Sr. and Steve Lenz.

Honorary bearers were Jerry Eenhuis, Robert Peterson, Les Peterson and Larry Schlawin. Casket bearers were Craig Schlawin, David Eenhuis, Steve Eenhuis, Virgil Stahl, Larry Eenhuis and Chad Schlawin. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. The Cataldo Funeral Home of Garner was in charge of the arrangements.

Mathilda Elizabeth Eenhuis, the daughter of Otto A.L. and Mathilda E. (Katter) Schlawin, was born on September 3, 1914, on a farm southwest of Garner. She was baptized and confirmed by the Rev. C.A. Schmid. She attended the rural schools of Liberty Township.

On December 23, 1935, she was married to Menno Johann Eenhuis at the Kanawha Christian Reformed parsonage. They farmed northeast of Kanawha for four years, northeast of Hayfield for 26 years and then northeast of Miller for four years before retiring to Garner in 1970.

In 1989, Mathilda moved to the Town Square Apartments in Forest City and in 1999 to the Three Links Apartments in Mason City. She became a resident of the Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake in June of 2002. She enjoyed her family and working with craft items. She was a member of the Peace Reformed Church where she was active in the Women's Missionary Society and taught Sunday School.

Mathilda is survived by her children, Marjorie (Orlando) Peterson of Clear Lake and Melvin (Pauline) Eenhuis of Des Moines; five grandchildren, Carolyn (Craig) Schlawin of Farmington, Minnesota, Robert (Genon) Peterson of Forest City, Les (Robin) Peterson of Colorado Springs, Colorado, David (Toalima) Eenhuis of Mason City and Steven (Shirley) Eenhuis of Mason City; six step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; six step-great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; five step-great-great-grandchildren; her twin sister, Myra Stahl of Belmond; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Menno on March 5, 1991; her parents; a great-grandson, Michael Tavita Eenhuis; an infant brother; brother, Roger Schlawin; and three sisters, Sadie Lemke, Norva Cole and Helena Boland.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Barbara Matheson, 1938-2006

April 20, 2005

Barbara Rae Matheson, age 66, formerly of Arapahoe, Nebraska, died on Wednesday, April 6, 2005, at the Beaver City Manor, Beaver City, Nebraska.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 9, at the Christian Church of Christ of Arapahoe, with the Rev. Don Sailer officiating. Burial was in the Arapahoe Cemetery. The Wenburg Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Barbara Matheson, was born on December 8, 1938, at the Furleigh farm at Clear Lake to Sibert and Rose (Howard) Shoop. She attended school at Clear Lake and Klemme.

She was married to Rudy J. Nutz in 1956. They farmed in various areas in Iowa and Minnesota for a number of years. They divorced in 1974.

Barbara moved to Denver, Colorado. She married Clarence Matheson in July of 1977 in Denver. They separated in 1994, She was employed as an office manager for the Good Shepherd Pick-up Service. She moved to Arapahoe, Nebraska and lived in this area until her health forced her into the Beaver City Assisted Living and Manor.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Tommy Shoop; and three grandchildren.

Survivors include three sons, Tom Nutz of Denver, Colorado, Tim and wife, Jean Nutz of Chattanooga, Tennessee and Ted and wife, Deborah Nutz of Beaufort, South Carolina; two daughters, Christina and husband, Terry Donovan of Omaha, Nebraska and Penny and husband, Danny Gardner of Arapahoe.

Also surviving are a brother, Doug and wife, Della Shoop of Paulden, Arizona; and sister, Blanche and husband, Elmer Reicherts of Swaledale; 13 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Alice Cogill, 1916-2005

April 13, 2005

Alice Smedley Cogill, 88 of Mason City, died on Thursday, April 7, 2005, at the Good Shepherd Health Center, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, April 11, at the First Assembly of God, Mason City. The Rev. Norm Tosten, officiated. Interment was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. The Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel of Mason City was in charge of the arrangements.

Alice R. Smedley, was born on November 4, 1916, on a farm near Rockwell. She was the daughter of Elsie Louisa and Milton Smedley. She graduated from high school in 1934.

She married John Cogill in 1935. The couple had three daughters, Sherry, Karen, and Marilyn. Alice was an active member at the Assembly of God Church and committed her life to Jesus Christ. She taught Sunday School, Children's Church, was secretary of the church board, besides many other involvements.

Alice enjoyed gardening. Her specialty was growing flowers, tulips, lilies, roses, chrysanthemums, anything and everything that had color. She enjoyed working crossword puzzles and cryptograms. The TV program "Wheel of Fortune" was one of her favorites. Her love for reading took her many places she could never go. She was a baseball fan and was a fan of the Minnesota Twins.

She was employed at Mercy Hospital for many years. In 1959 she took a position as a seamstress for the Formalities Bridal Shop.

Survivors include her three daughters, Sherry (Art) Zurn of Garner, Karen (Jerry) Parsley of Springfield, Missouri and Marilyn "Dee" (Tomm) Byrtus of Faribault, Minnesota; ten grandchildren, Lee Davidson, Jerry Szymeczek, Gary (Sue) Szymeczek, Elaine Michaels, Lisa (Fred) Schroeder, Kerry (Gordon) Hicks, Kert (Tami) Parsley, Kristi (Alan) Kalal, Rachelle (Tim) Rachuy, Matthew Byrtus; 23 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her two sisters, Lettie Bucalstein of LaHabra, California and Reba Miller of Belmond.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers and one sister, Art, Vern, Joe, Clyde, and Ruth.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Ronald J. Knop, 1930-2005

April 13, 2005

Ronald J. Knop, 74, of Ventura, died on Thursday, April 7, 2005, at the Concord Care Center in Garner.

Memorial services were held on Monday, April 11, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner, with the Rev. Carl Hedberg officiating. Music was provided by organist, Barb Mrosko who accompanied soloist, Warren Torkelson and congregational hymns. Ushers were Earl Jaspersen and Gary Mrosko.

Honorary bearers were his grandchildren. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner, with military rites by the Garner Veterans Ceremonial Unit.  The Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner was in charge of the arrangements.

Ronald Julius Knop, the son of Julius Herman and Emma Rose (Rayhons) Knop, was born on August 5, 1930, on the family farm west of Ventura. He graduated from the Ventura High School in 1947 and continued his education at the Hamilton Business College in Mason City.

He was inducted into the U.S. Air Force on December 29, 1950 and served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the 1501st Air Traffic Squadron during the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge on September 28, 1954 he returned home to farm.

On June 3, 1951, he married Wilma Hyde at the Congregational Church in Clear Lake. They lived west of Ventura where Ron farmed until ill health caused him to retire in 1998.

He was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner, the Gifford Olson American Legion Post 256 in Garner and the Clear Lake VFW. He served on the Ventura School Board and Garner Creamery Board.

He is survived by his wife, Wilma of Ventura; four children, Ronald J. (Terri) Knop II of Austin, Texas, Mona (Robert) Mims of Medina, Ohio, Leeza (Doug) Phinney of Ventura and Lee (Sue) Knop of Sioux City; seven grandchildren, Austin Mims, Natalie Mims, Justin Phinney, Brandon Phinney, Caitlin Knop, Tanner Knop and Emily Knop.

Survivors also include a brother, Ken (Virginia) Knop of Houston, Texas; a sister-in-law, Ruth Knop of Clear Lake; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Harold on October 22, 2004.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Richard Carney, 1932-2005

April 13, 2005

Richard "Dick" Carney, 73, of the Titonka-Crystal Lake area, died on Friday, April 8, 2005, at the Hospice of North Iowa in Mason City.

Memorial services were held on Monday, April 11, at the Crystal Lake Methodist Church, Crystal Lake, Iowa. The Rev. Catherine Luck officiated. Music was provided by pianist, Anita Eden who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and a congregational hymn. Keith Sorensen ushered. Interment was in the Buffalo Township Cemetery, Titonka.

Dick, the son of Hugh and Carrie Blanche (Schneider) Carney, was born on January 24, 1932 in Mallard. He attended school at Whittemore and graduated from the Fenton High School in 1949. Dick served in the Korean War from 1952-1955. Following his honorable discharge, he worked in Fort Dodge for the Rankin Motor Company and then nine years for U.S. Gypsum.

Dick was united in marriage to Cheryl Grimm on January 31, 1964, in Whittemore. The couple made their home in Cylinder for three years where Dick was manager of the Standard Oil Fertilizer Plant. They moved to Irvington, where Dick was plant manager for the Fertilizer and L.P. Gas Company. In 1971, Dick and Cheryl then had the chance to take over the oil agent's job in Crystal Lake. In 1975, he became the oil jobber for Standard Oil and the family ran that business.

Dick served one term on the Crystal Lake City Council and then served as mayor for three terms. While serving as mayor, Dick helped get the Senior Center started in the City Hall building, so they would have a nice place. Dick also got cable television in at no cost at that time.

Dick and Cheryl spent winters in Mesa, Arizona. For ten years, they owned rental property, which they sold in 2003 and purchased a home in Mesa. Dick always was ready to go to Arizona in October, but in April was ready to come home and be with his two granddaughters, Melanie and Janet.

Survivors include his wife, Cheryl; three children, Sandy Hofmann and Gary of Titonka, Rick Carney and Kesha of Denver, Colorado, Teena Blade and Scott from Altoona; four granddaughters, Melanie and Janet Hofmann, Madison and Sidney Carney; one grandson, John Neal Holland; one sister, Catherine Derenthall of Mesa, Arizona; one brother-in-law, Rolland Krug of West Bend; very special friends, Jim and Janice Kirshbaum and family; special neighbor, Erlene Schutter and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patsy; brother, Hugh and sister-in-law, Geraldine Krug.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

John T. Eness, 1921-2005

April 20, 2005

John T. Eness, 83, of Garner, died on Monday, April 11, 2005, at the Heritage Care Center, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 16, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner, with the Rev. Henry Friedrich officiating. Music was provided by organist, Barb Mrosko who accompanied soloist, Beverly Cataldo and congregational hymns. Gary Mrosko was the usher.

Casket bearers were Lynn Smith, Bill Short, La Vern Vaage, Larry Vaage, Sylvan Meling and Brad Snodgrass. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner, with military rites by the Garner Veterans Ceremonial Unit. The Cataldo Funeral Home of Garner was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be directed to St. Paul Lutheran Church or Hospice of North Iowa.

John Thomas Eness, the son of Thomas and Bertha (Chentland) Eness, was born on May 8, 1921, on a farm near Crystal Lake. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He graduated from the Garner High School in 1940. He began working in the plumbing, heating and air conditioning trade. He also worked as a movie projectionist for several years at the Avery Theater in Garner.

John served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II as a medical technician. He was stationed in England for two and one-half years in the 303rd U.S. Hospital north of London. Following his honorable discharge he returned to Garner and continued working in the plumbing, heating and air conditioning trade for over 50 years at C. J. Schneider's Hardware and Grocery and Smith's Hardware.

One of his biggest joys was helping his customers seven days a week, providing emergency service even on holidays and in all types of weather. As he got older, so did his customers and into his 80s he enjoyed the challenges of serving his friends.

His hobbies included gardening with special interest in day lilies. When his mother died he took over tending her African violets. Other interests included flying, fishing and woodworking.

He was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church where he serviced the heating system, St. Paul Men's Club and the Gifford Olson American Legion Post No. 256 in Garner.

John is survived by his sister, Bernice Eness of Garner; three brothers, Orville (Karen) Eness of Park Ridge, Illinois, Vergil (Joan) Eness of Clear Lake and Arlyn (Carolyn) Eness of Iowa Falls; an aunt, Della Vaage of Forest City; 12 nieces and nephews; many cousins; and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Judith (Roscoe) McKinney.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Anna Conners, 1910-2005

April 20, 2005

Long time Klemme resident, Anna Conners, died on Tuesday, April 12, 2005, at the Belmond Health Care Center. She was 94.

Funeral services were held on Friday, April 15, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman officiated. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme was in charge of the arrangements.

Anna Trampel, was born on July 14, 1910, to Peter and Jennie (Schaa) Trampel of Kamrar. She was united in marriage to Arthur Conners on December 4, 1943, at the Immanuel Reformed Church of Klemme. Following their marriage they made their home in the Klemme area.

For many years Anna was a housekeeper for residents throughout the area including Britt, Garner and Clear Lake. She was known for her hard working and meticulous attention to her work. Anna's church life was very important to her throughout the years of her life. She enjoyed times spent with her family and friends. In earlier years she was a faithful member of the "Jolly Workers Club".

She became a resident of the Belmond Health Care Center in December of 2002. While living there she enjoyed playing bingo and visiting with others. Anna was an excellent gardener. She loved animals, especially her dog "Muffy". She will be remembered for being conservative in nature, concise in her beliefs, and very caring.

Survivors include her brother and sister-in-law, Clarence and Ruth Trampel of Klemme; sister-in-law, Eula Trampel of Belmond; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Anna was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur in September of 1978; her parents; an infant brother, Melbourne; brothers, John and Harmon Trampel; and her sister, Wemkie Cavitt.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Laura O. Boehnke, 1913-2005

April 20, 2005

Laura O. Boehnke, 91, of Ventura, died on Friday, April 15, 2005, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, April 18, at the St. John's Lutheran Church east of Garner, with the Rev. Carl Hedberg officiating. Music was provided by organist, Paul Boehnke who accompanied vocal soloist, Ruth Ann Taylor and congregational hymns. Special music was provided by cellist, Julie Elhard and violinist, Mary Giese. Ushers were Scott 0llenburg and Paul Boehnke.

Casket bearers were Dale Plath, Jon Hollatz, Robert Boehnke, Philip Boehnke, Mark Boehnke, Dale Boehnke, Carl Chiko and Steve Hollatz. Burial was in the church cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Laura Olga Boehnke, the daughter of Carl and Emma (Jante) Hollatz, was born on August 20, 1913, on a farm north of Garner. She was baptized and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church. She attended St. John's Parochial School and graduated from the Garner High School in 1931.

Laura was employed at the bank in Ventura for 13 years, Mercy Hospital in Mason City for five years, and the Hancock County Treasurer's Office in Garner for seven years.

On January 27, 1956, she was married to Earl Boehnke at the St. Luke's Lutheran Church in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. They farmed with Earl's brother, Lawrence, northeast of Garner and later with their son, Tom, until retiring from active farming in 1983. In 1979, they moved into Ventura. Laura moved to Apple Valley Assisted Living in Clear Lake in February of 2005. She enjoyed her family, friends, quilting, gardening, card playing, cooking, sewing, reading, and her church.

She was a member of the St John's Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. She also was s member of LWML, AAL, Birthday Club and belonged to several bridge clubs.

Laura is survived by her son, Thomas (Janet) Boehnke of Ventura; four grandchildren, Kara Joy, Shanna Sue, Brittany Lou and Kevin Thomas Boehnke; a sister-in-law, Edna Boehnke of Edina, Minnesota; and many niece; and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl; parents; two sisters, Verna Rankin and Lillian Boehnke; a brother, LeRoy Hollatz; brothers-in-law, Normal Rankin and Art Boehnke; and sisters-in-law, Agnes Hollatz and Ann Hollatz.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Alpha E. Rood, 1914-2005

April 27, 2005

Alpha E. (Jass) Rood, 90, of Eastpointe, Michigan, formerly of Garner, died on Sunday, April 17, 2005, in Macomb Township, Michigan.

Funeral services were held on Friday, April 22, at the Cataldo Funeral Chapel in Garner, with the Rev. Carl Hedberg officiating. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner.

Alpha Emelia Rood, the daughter of Herman and Caroline (Grell) Jass, was born on August 9, 1914 at Garner. She attended school at Garner. In 1932 she was united in marriage to Alfred Rood. They lived in Bode, Garner and Chicago, Illinois. In 1976, they retired and moved to Clear Lake. In 1983, she moved to Michigan to be near her family. She enjoyed spending time with her family and traveling.

Alpha is survived by her children, LaVonne Reiss of Macomb Township, Michigan and Doug Rood and his wife, Dolores, of Barrington, Illinois; an adopted daughter, Joan Grover of Tinley Park, Illinois; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Edna Hammitt of Garner; a sister-in-law, Myrna Schmidt of Garner; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred in 1981; her parents; and five brothers, Emil, Otto, Art, Leo and Arnie Jass.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Harold Smallfoot, 1926-2005

April 27, 2005

Harold R. Smallfoot, 79, of Clear Lake, died on Monday, April 18, 2005, at the Hospice of the Valley, Scottsdale, Arizona.

Funeral services were held on Monday, April 25, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. The Rev. Joel Dahlen, officiated. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, where members of the Clear Lake VFW Post #4868, conducted full military honors. The Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, was in charge of the arrangements. A Moose Memorial Service was held on Sunday, April 24.

Harold Ralph Smallfoot, was born on January 21, 1926 at Dunbar, Nebraska. He was the son of Roy E. and Clara K. (Schmittger) Smallfoot. He married Marge Greiman on November 24, 1947.

Harold attended school in Nebraska. He served in the US Navy during WW II. Harold drove truck for Bekins Trucking and farmed in the Garner area for several years. He married Ocie (Holt) Hrubetz on April 14, 1973. Harold was employed at Armour's for many years, retiring in 1980.

He enjoyed playing poker, cribbage, sports, gardening, especially watching the Phoenix Suns, and he loved to fish with his grandchildren. He looked forward to wintering in Scottsdale, Arizona and returning to Clear Lake each spring for the past 25 years. He was a member of the Moose Lodge, Mason City, and a life time member of the Clear Lake VFW Post #4868.

Survivors include his wife, Ocie Smallfoot of Clear Lake; children, Landry (Candace) Smallfoot of Spokane, Washington, Holly Rasmussen of Garner, Lambert (Leslie) Smallfoot of Des Moines, Dawn Smallfoot of Garner, Gail (Kevin) Kuhlman of Garner, Janice Lysne of Mason City, Michael Hrubetz of Las Vegas, Nevada and James (Cathy) Hrubetz of Mason City; 21 grandchildren, Robert (Kumi) Smallfoot, Sarah (Nate) Smallfoot, Ryan Smallfoot, Brittany Baxter, Austin Baxter, Heidi (Brian) Thoe, Hannah (Jervaris) Rasmussen, Heather (Aaron) Lamb, Ryan Rasmussen, Raquel Rasmussen, Allan (Mysti) Kuhlman, Paul Kuhlman, Lisa (Ibrahim) Gangol, Raquel (Craig) Ball, Emma Kelley, Grace Kelley, Nathan Kelley, Brandon Hrubetz, Kevon Hrubetz, A. J. Hrubetz and Kailee Hrubetz; and four great-grandchildren.

Survivors also include two sisters, Helen McComes of Plato, Missouri and Clara Rhodes of San Jose, California; two sisters-in-law, Mosaka Smallfoot of Monterey, California and Betty (Marvin) Esser of Mason City; a brother-in-law, John (Mona) Holt of Mason City; and many nieces and nephews.

His parents; a daughter, Christine Smallfoot; brothers, Edward and Kenneth Smallfoot; and a sister-in law, Betty Smallfoot preceded him in death.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Gene Goepel, 1926-2005

April 27, 2005

Gene Goepel, 78, of Britt, died on Monday, April 18, 2005, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Friday, April 22, at the Evangelical Free Church in Britt. The Rev. Stan Johnson and the Rev. Jason Boomgarden officiated. Music was provided by Mrs. Dwight Anderson who accompanied soloist, Laura Brayton. Honorary casket bearers were Sarah Goepel, Laura Brayton, Kristen Evers, Steven Goepel, Keven Goepel and Michael Goepel.

Casket bearers were Terry Goepel, Craig Goepel, Marty Goepel, Stacey Goepel, Ryan Evers and Nathan Evers. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Willard Eugene Goepel, was born on September 21, 1926, to Willard Charles and Erma Delphine (Truitt) Goepel at the farm home of his grandmother and step-grandfather, Maggie and C. M. Christenson, on the Upper Flat, north of Britt. He was baptized and confirmed at the Upper Flat Evangelical Free Church. He completed grade school on the Upper Flat and attended the Britt High School.

On January 11, 1946, he was united in marriage to Arlene May Johnson. He worked for the Thiel Oil Company in Britt and then managed the Shell Station at Garner. He also sold new cars for Pritchard and Majon Motor Companies in Britt before owning the Goepel Farm Service in Britt. He sold Watkins products and delivered Winnebago Motor homes. He served on the Britt City Council for 14 years during the 1960s and 1970s.

Gene is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 59 years, Arlene; five children, Terry A. Goepel of Mason City, Craig Goepel and his wife, Jean of Britt, Carol A. Evers and her husband, Mark of Mason City, Lana L. Goepel of Maple Grove, Minnesota and Marty J. Goepel and his wife, Jennifer of Mason City; grandchildren, Stacey Goepel and his wife, Kari of Britt, Sarah Goepel of Sterling, Colorado, Laura Brayton and her husband, Andrew of Ames, Ryan, Nathan and Kristen Evers, Steven, Keven and Michael Goepel all of Mason City; and three great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are his aunt Deloris (Christenson) Leaman and her husband, Dean of Columbia, Maryland; special family friend, Craig Remmen of Mason City; brothers-in-law, Donald Johnson and his wife, June of Clear Lake, Charles Johnson and his wife, Virginia of Chula Vista, California and Dick Harmon of Harris; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Delphine Pigman; step-father, Elmer Pigman; aunts, Evelyn Kyhl and Carol Christenson; one step-aunt; two step-uncles and grandson-in-law, Kurtus Miller.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Tena M. Peters, 1904-2005

April 27, 2005

Tena M. Peters, 101, of Kanawha, died on Tuesday, April 19, 2005, at the Kanawha Community Home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 23, at the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church. The Rev. Steve Schulz officiated. Music was provided by Marilyn DeKruyff who accompanied soloist, Marvin Engh and congregational hymns. John Eekhoff and Howard Jutting ushered.

Casket bearers were Troy Miller, Scott Lester, David Abbas, Larry Abbas, Wayne Abbas and Marvin Trenary. Burial was in the Amsterdam Township Cemetery. The Ewing Dugger Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Tena, the daughter of Daniel and Nancy (Christians) Abbas, was born on February 13, 1904, on the family farm near Kanawha. She attended school in Kanawha and graduated from the Kanawha High School in 1922. She attended Normal Training School in Iowa Falls. Tena was employed for three years as a bookkeeper for the Klemme Lumber Company in Kanawha.

On February 22, 1925, Tena Abbas was united in marriage with John H. Peters at the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church Parsonage, by Rev. D. L. Plesscher. The couple made their home and farmed near Kanawha until 1951 when they retired and moved into Kanawha.

Tena was a member of the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church, where she was a member of the Ladies Aid and a Sunday School Teacher for many years.

Survivors include her son, Harry and his wife, JoAnn of Kanawha; three grandsons, Roger Peters and his wife, Marilyn of Woodbury, Minnesota, Russell Peters and his wife, Julie of Kanawha, Richard Peters and his wife, Margaret of Tampa, Florida; four great-grandchildren, MeLeah Miller and her husband, Troy, Dan, Jonathan and Nathan Peters; great-granddaughter, Jasmine Lester and her husband, Scott; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Survivors also include one brother, Clarence Abbas and his wife, Vera of Kanawha; sister-in-law, Alice Abbas of Kanawha; and brother-in-law, Gerald Swyter of Kanawha.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John in 1992; four brothers, Fred, Chris, Anno and George; three sisters, Grace Veldhouse, Faye Swyter and Bena Trenary.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Gertrude Schmidt, 1915-2005

April 27, 2005

Gertrude Schmidt, 89, of Garner, died on Wednesday, April 20, 2005, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 23, 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. Lector was Donna Young and Robert Kral ushered.

Casket bearers were Roland Schmidt, Gerald Schmidt, Darl Schmidt, Ron Kumsher, Larry Wise and Dennis Jones. Burial was in the St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery in Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Gertrude Teresa Schmidt, the daughter of Louis and Emma (Busch) Schmidt was born on August 26, 1915, on a farm southwest of Garner. She attended the Garfield Township School and graduated from the Garner High School in 1931. Gertrude taught in the rural schools of Garfield and Avery Townships in Hancock County for six years.

After the death of her mother, she stayed home and took care of her father. She was a school lunch worker in the Garner School System for 22 years. Gertrude resided at the Concord Care Center in Garner since July of 2004. She enjoyed reading, gardening and playing cards.

Gertrude was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church, St. Boniface Parish Society and a homemakers club.

She is survived by two sisters, Ada Linda Schmidt and Erma Linda Schmidt of Garner; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by two sisters, Marie Roach and Eulalia Albers; three brothers, Leo Schmidt, Arnold Schmidt and Alois Schmidt; two brothers-in-law, Mike Roach and George Albers; and two sisters-in-law, Rose Schmidt and Gladys Schmidt.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Helen M. Nelson, 1949-2005

April 27, 2005

Helen Mary Nelson, age 90, a life long resident of Belmond, died on Wednesday, April 20, 2005, at the Belmond Health Care Center in Belmond.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 23, 2005, at the Trinity Lutheran Church, Belmond. The Rev. Rod Hopp officiated. Burial was in the Belmond Cemetery. The Andrews Funeral Home of Belmond was in charge of the arrangements.

Helen Johnson, was born on May 18, 1914 in Belmond. She was the daughter of William and Mary (Hunst) Johnson. She attended the Belmond Schools in her youth.

Helen was united in marriage to Richard A. Thompson on May 18, 1935, at Mason City, Iowa. She later married James I. Nelson, on July 31, 1952, at Silver Bow County, Montana. Following their marriage, Helen took on the role and responsibilities of raising Richard's six children. Richard preceded Helen in death in August of 1974.

For most of her life, Helen was employed as a cook and dietician. She worked for various restaurants and for much of her career was employed with the Belmond Community Hospital. Helen retired from the hospital in 1976 after 23 years of employment there.

Helen was very people orientated and looked forward to family gatherings and get togethers with friends and neighbors. She will be remembered for her enjoyment of friendly competition, especially times spent playing cards of all kinds.

Throughout most of her life, she was active in the Trinity Lutheran Church and the Esther Circle there. She was a long time member of both the VFW and the American Legion Ladies Auxiliaries, the Belmond Hospital Ladies Auxiliary, the RSVP, Senior Citizens, and was active for a number of years in the Grandmother's Club.

She became a resident at the Belmond Health Care Center in October of 2002. Prior to that she had resided at the Leinbach Center for 26 years.

Survivors include her sons, Duan and wife, Linda Thompson of Belmond and Jack and wife, Marlys Thompson of Mesa, Arizona; brother, Henry Johnson and wife, Betty of Sedona, Arizona; daughters-in-law, Ruth Thompson of West Palm Beach, Florida and Betty Thompson of Belmond; sister-in-law, Doris Nelson of Earlham; 18 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and 36 great-great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and special caregivers and friends at the care center and retirement apartments.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, William (2004), Don (2000), Roger (1978); daughter, Anita Whipple (2002); brothers, Maurice (1955), Earl (1949) and William (1970); sister, Lillian (1995); a granddaughter in 1954 and grandson in 1991; also son-in-law, Gerald Whipple (2001); and daughter-in-law, Dorothy Thompson (2004).
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Robert Nonnweiler, 1919-2005

May 4, 2005

Robert "Buck" Nonnweiler, 86, of Garner, died on Sunday, April 24, 2005, at the Westview Care Center, Britt.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 27, at the United Methodist Church in Garner. The Rev. David Wagner officiated. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek, who accompanied soloist, Bernie Urich and a congregational hymn. Ushers were Maynard and Marvin Schoneman.

Honorary bearers were Al Wille, Chuck Goll, Richard Nonnweiler, Cherrice Risius, Blake Risius and Heidi Risius. Casket bearers were Allan Long, Crystal Long, Nicole Gretillat, Kendall Ausborn, Ryan Ausborn and Hillary Vicker. 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.

Robert Dale Nonnweiler, the son of Christian and Edith (Watts) Nonnweiler, was born on March 19, 1919, on a farm near Hayfield. He attended school at Garner and graduated from high school in 1936. Following his schooling, he began working in construction plastering houses in Garner.

Buck served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II with Company 13, 2756 Engineer Battalion as an engineer and supply clerk in the European, African and Middle Eastern Theatres. He helped build bridges, roads and railroads as well as demolition of enemy equipment and supplies. He was awarded the Silver and Bronze Battle Stars and Bronze Service Arrowhead. On September 14, 1945, he was honorably discharged. Buck returned home to Garner and continued his education at the Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis.

On July 16, 1966, he married Barbara Smith Risius at Sioux Falls, South Dakota. They lived in Garner where Buck worked in construction at Anderson, Irving and Nonnweiler Construction and later Nonnweiler & Reichardt Construction in Garner. He retired in 1981. He enjoyed his family, fishing, gardening, golfing, bowling and playing cards. He and Barb enjoyed traveling together and visited all of the 50 states except Alaska.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church, Master Builders Association and was a life member of the Edwin Jante VFW Post No. 5515 and the Gifford Olson American Legion Post No. 256 in Garner.

Buck is survived by his wife, Barbara of Garner; six children, Richard Nonnweiler of Clear Lake, Diana Ausborn of Aurora, Colorado, Don (Deb) Risius of Garner, Bonnie (Kenneth) Ausborn of Garner, Todd (Jane) Risius of Russellville, Arkansas and Christine (Lance) Atwell of Clear Lake; a son-in-law, Allan Lynch of Colorado Springs, Colorado; 14 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cynthia Lynch; three sisters, Marie Goll, Maxine Taylor and an infant sister, Thelma.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Gerold "Jack" Greiman, 1927-2005

May 4, 2005

Gerold "Jack" Greiman, 78, of Clear Lake, died on Tuesday, April 26, 2005, at the Good Shepard Care Center, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Friday, April 29, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Jan Burnett officiating. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. The Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

Gerold Glen Greiman, was born on February 16, 1927, in Garner, the son of Oscar J. and Lillian (Scott) Greiman. He was baptized and confirmed at the Peace Reformed Church, Garner. He graduated from the Garner High School and was active in football, basketball, band, and drama.

On September 29, 1948, Jack was united in marriage to Beverly J. (Reemtsma) Greiman in Mason City. To this union three sons were born. He served his church as Sunday School Superintendent, deacon, youth leader, and served on the mission and outreach board.

Jack was secretary of the board of directors of the Hancock County Coop Oil, was a 4-H Leader, member of the Garner Saddle Club, and belonged to the bowling league. He played on the church softball league team. He enjoyed playing basketball, volleyball, and golf; fishing, and hunting; raising purebred cattle and quarter horses, and ballroom dancing.

Jack retired in 1994 and moved to Clear Lake where he was a member of the Clear Lake United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Beverly Greiman of Clear Lake; three sons, Randall (Marian) Greiman of Garner, Scott (Lois) Greiman of Dayton, Minnesota and Mark (Lisa) Greiman of Athol, Idaho; five grandchildren, Shana (Ryan) Cash, Stacy Greiman, Travis, Justin and Tara Greiman; sisters-in-law, Betty (Bob) Johnson of Iowa Falls and Ivadell (John) Abele of Garner; three nieces; and two nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Gordon; and one sister, Gloria Boehnke.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Anna Mae Upmeyer, 1923-2005

May 4, 2005

Anna Mae Upmeyer, 82, of Garner, died on Wednesday, April 27, 2005, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 30, at the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner, with the Rev. Edward Bard, Hospice Chaplain officiating. Music was provided by organist, Margaret Jass who accompanied congregational hymns. Special music was provided by Loren and Alberta Kalkwarf. Ushers were Ed Barkema and Doug Upmeyer. Honorary bearers were the North Garner Community Club.

Casket bearers were Cory Upmeyer, Shane Upmeyer, Ryan Upmeyer, Justin Upmeyer, Nicholas Upmeyer and Bradley Upmeyer. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Anna Mae Upmeyer, the daughter of Ben and Carrie (Andersen) Hall, was born on March 12, 1923 at Miller. She attended the Ellington No. 8 country school.

On October 10, 1944, she was married to Curtis Benjamin Upmeyer at the Ellington Prairie Lutheran Church near Miller. They lived and farmed southwest of Garner until 1963 when they moved to a farm north of Garner. In 1998 they moved to the Prairie View Apartments in Garner and in February of 2002 to the Concord Care Center.

Her passion was helping her husband, Curtis outdoors with the farming operation. She enjoyed her family, grandchildren, baking, singing, gardening and helping others. She was a member of the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church, where she sang in the choir and also belonged to the Zion Women's Fellowship, North Garner Community Club and a Homemakers Club.

Anna Mae is survived by her husband, Curtis of Garner; three sons, Allen (Jeanette) Upmeyer of Clinton, Daryl (Kathy) Upmeyer of Garner and Dale (Linda) Upmeyer of Garner; ten grandchildren, Cory (Jennifer) Upmeyer and son, James of Aurora, Illinois, Shane (Jennifer) Upmeyer and son, Joshua of Warrington, Virginia, Darci (Jason) Reis of Omaha, Nebraska, Ryan (Abby) Upmeyer and children, Jane and George of St. Louis, Missouri, Justin (Maggie) Upmeyer of Grand Junction, Colorado, Angela (Cyrus) Balsara and daughter, Azita of Seattle, Washington, Kristi (Derrick) Meyer of Albia, Nicholas Upmeyer of Garner, Bradley Upmeyer of Garner and Lori (Nick) Schmitt of Britt.

Survivors also include a sister, Ruth Greimann of Garner; a brother, Orville (Josephine) Hall of Garner; two brothers-in-law, Clarence Schroeder of Klemme and Dick Halloway of California; a sister-in-law, Fae Upmeyer of Hemit, California; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by an infant son, Dorance (twin of Dale); her parents; two sisters, Olive Halloway and Alice Schroeder; brothers-in-law, Curtis Greimann, Alton Upmeyer and Gordon Upmeyer; and a sister-in-law, Marguerite Upmeyer.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Clarence Trampel, 1922-2005

May 11, 2005

Clarence Richard Trampel, 82, a life long resident of Klemme, died on Saturday, April 30, 2005, at the Belmond Health Care Center, where he was a resident since December of 2004.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 4, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ in Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman officiated. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme was in charge of the arrangements.

Clarence Trampel, was born on September 22, 1922 at Kamrar, the son of Peter and Jennie (Schaa) Trampel. He moved with his family at a young age to a farm near Klemme. Clarence attended and graduated from 8th grade from the Avery Township Schools.

He was united in marriage to Ruth Haes, on April 24, 1943, at the Immanuel Reformed Church, Klemme. Their union was blessed with five children, Joanne, Richard, Beverly, Dixie and Terry. The couple made their home and raised their family on the Trampel family farm which has been in the family over a century.

Clarence was a life long farmer and raised horses. His love of horses spanned his entire life. He raised many different breeds over the years, as well as numerous teams of mules. His favorite past times included special times spent with his family and friends. On special occasions he would hitch up the teams and go on trail rides.

The last several years, Clarence was the number one spectator at any of the events or practices at Trampel Arena, south of Klemme. He looked forward to going for a ride nearly everyday. Clarence rarely missed an opportunity to go to a horse sale. Mr. Trampel also enjoyed touring the countryside in his surrey, a family heirloom that belonged to his parents.

Though Clarence and Ruth did not travel extensively, the family cherishes the memories of a trip they took to Texas in a renovated school bus over the Christmas season in 2003.

Clarence enjoyed times spent with his family and friends. He also enjoyed the company and companionship of his dogs. He was a long time member of the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme.

Survivors include his wife and life partner of over 62 years, Ruth Trampel of Klemme; his daughter, JoAnne and husband, Gerald Vander Wolde of New Braunfels, Texas; son, Richard and wife, Diane Trampel of Klemme; daughter, Dixie and husband, Larry Treinen of Klemme; and son, Terry and wife, Tracy Trampel of Klemme.

Survivors also include his grandchildren, Jeffrey Vander Wolde, Travis Trampel, Dusty Korleski and wife, Jessica, Brian Nelson and wife, Elisa, Jason Korleski, Bradley Nelson, Kody Trampel, Kasey Trampel, Tammy Callahan, Misty Vander Wolde, Angie Trampel, Amy Nelson, Alyssa Treinen, Sara Treinen, Tanner Hartema and Austin Hartema; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Beverly Korleski; infant brother, Melbourne; brothers, Harmen and John; sisters, Wenkie Cavett and Anna Conners who died on April 12, 2005; and sons-in-law, Bob Korleski and Greg Nelson.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005