Phyllis Coslow, 1924-2005

May 11, 2005

Phyllis Marie Coslow, 80, of Britt, died on Wednesday, May 4, 2005, at the Hospice of North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 7, at the United Methodist Church of Britt. The Rev. Robert Dodge officiated. Music was provided by organist, Marilyn DeKruyff who accompanied soloist, Charles McLaughlin and congregational hymns.

Honorary casket bearers were Maren Coslow, Amy Smidt and Christina Coslow. Casket bearers were Jay Coslow, Greg Smidt, Jon Coslow, Ann Francis, David Smidt and Justin Francis. Burial was in the Lawn Hill Cemetery in Stanhope. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Phyllis, the daughter of Elmer and Mary (Harvey) Malmberg, was born on December 15, 1924 in Stanhope. She grew up in Stanhope where she received her education.

On May 26, 1941, she was united in marriage to Roy Coslow in Chillicothe, Missouri. Following their marriage, the couple moved to Chicago, Mason City, and then Britt. For a number of years, Phyllis was employed as a secretary with Paul Kelly and Joe Wellik. During retirement, Roy and Phyllis enjoyed traveling, ballroom dancing and playing cards as she was an avid bridge player.

Phyllis was a member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Britt and was very involved with the church. They most recently attended the United Methodist Church in Britt. Phyllis loved being involved in the lives of those she loved, especially her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Roy; two children, Jim Coslow and his wife, Barbara of Troy, Michigan and Susan Emanuel and her husband, Dennis of North Bend, Nebraska; five grandchildren, Jay Coslow and his wife, Maren of Royal Oak, Michigan, Greg Smidt and his wife, Amy of Waukee, Jon Coslow and his wife, Christina of Chicago, Illinois, Ann Francis and her husband, Justin of Lincoln, Nebraska and David Smidt of Lincoln; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and two sisters, Peggy Malmberg and Shirley Bade.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Leona J. Vaughan, 1906-2005

May 18, 2005

Leona J. Vaughan, 99, of Rapid City, South Dakota, died on Wednesday, May 4, 2005, at the West Hills Care Center.

Graveside funeral services were held on Monday, May 9, at the Little Chapel in the Pines at the Pine Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Rapid City. The Rev. Paul Doriani officiated.

Leona was born on January 8, 1906 at Carbon. She was the daughter of John L. King and Edna M. Ellis. She moved to South Dakota with her family in 1921. She married William (Bill) H. Vaughan in 1931 and they farmed and ranched north of Okaton, South Dakota, until they retired and moved to Rapid City.

Survivors include a sister-in-law, Irene Brink; nieces, Helen Winter of Klemme and Darlene Thiede of Watertown, South Dakota; nephews, Darrel Corey of Mammoth Springs, Arkansas, Don Harley of Estes Park, Colorado, Willis and Donovan King of Apache Junction, Arizona, Gene Brink of Murdo, South Dakota, Marvin Brink of Rapid City and Raymond Brink of Vivian, South Dakota.

She was preceded in death by her parent; her husband, Bill; sister, Ada Corey; brother, J. Leonard King; and a half-brother, Clifford Brink.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Joan L. Sweers, 1931-2005

May 11, 2005

Joan Lois Sweers, of Britt, passed away on Thursday, May 5, 2005, at her home. She was 73.

Funeral services were held on Monday, May 9, at the United Methodist Church of Britt. The Rev. Robert Dodge officiated. Music was provided by organist, Tammy Johnson who accompanied soloist, Jim Sweers and congregational hymns. Don Schrandt and Harry Smith ushered.

Casket bearers were Zach Lange, Joe Stickman, David Sweers, Daniel Suchorski, Jacob Suchorski, Jeff Munson, Fred Sweers and Dennis Schaefer. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Britt. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

Joan, the daughter of Fred, Sr. and Ruby (LaRose) Schoby, was born on July 6, 1931 in Algona. She grew up in Algona and graduated from the Algona High School.

Joan was united in marriage with Louie Sweers on January 16, 1950 in Algona. The couple moved to Britt where they farmed until 1988, when they retired and moved to town. Joan loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and her only great-grandchild, Emma Sweers. She enjoyed making crafts, sewing, knitting, crocheting and playing cards.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Britt, a life time member of the VFW Auxiliary, a member of the North East Chapter of the Ex POWs and the Red Hat Ladies Society.

Survivors include three children, Susan Sweers of Omaha, Nebraska, Larry Sweers and his wife, Michele of Mauston, Wisconsin and Jeanie Stickman and her husband, Mike of Grimes; five grandsons, David Sweers and his wife, Catrina of Mauston, Wisconsin, Dan Suchorski of La Crosse, Wisconsin, Jacob Suchorski of Madison, Wisconsin, Joe Stickman and his wife, Shannon of Omaha, Nebraska and Jenny Lange and her husband, Zach of Des Moines; and great-granddaughter, Emma Sweers.

Also surviving are four sisters, Marjorie Schnath of Flagstaff, Arizona, Dorothy Hartinger of New Hope, Minnesota, Linda Becker and her husband, Bernie of Gold Canyon, Arizona, Kathy Munson of New Hampton; June Schoby of Latimer; in-laws, Ben and Rosie Sweers of Britt, Lucille DeWaard of Corwith, Elmer and Francine Sweers of Britt, Herman and Sally Sweers of Britt, Clint and Janet Moldenhauer of Forest City and Margaret Sweers of Florida; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Louie; three infant sons; brother, Fred Schoby Jr.; in-laws, Jake Sweers, Adrian DeWaard, Clarence Schaefer and Carrie Schaefer.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Marie "Pat" Perkins, 1925-2005

May 11, 2005

Marie "Pat" L. Perkins, a resident of Klemme, and a long time employee of the I.O.O.F. Home, Mason City, died on Friday, May 6, 2005, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient, Mason City. She was 80.

Funeral services were held on Monday, May 9, 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 was in charge of the arrangements.

The Queen Rebekah Lodge held a prayer service on Sunday at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials may be given to the I.O.O.F. Home, North Iowa Hospice, Humane Society of North Iowa, Immanuel Reformed UCC Church-Klemme, or to the donor's choice.

Marie Lela Perkins, was born on January 25, 1925 in Britt. She was the daughter of Raymond James and Nora (Johnson) Perkins. She was baptized and confirmed in the Kanawha Lutheran Church, Kanawha. She attended rural schools in Kanawha and Klemme, concluding her education at the Klemme High School. She made her home with her aunt and uncle, Alice and Hugh Hummel. Marie later made her home at the I.O.O.F. Apartments in Mason City.

Marie "Pat" was a dedicated employee of the I.O.O.F. facility for more than 40 years, most of her tenure was as an activities associate. Her devotion to her career kept her in the work force in this position until her retirement at age 77.

Marie enjoyed times spent with her family and friends and visiting with them over a cup of coffee. She enjoyed flower gardening and listening to the birds singing. Those who knew her well will remember the constant blare of her favorite radio stations, WHO and KGLO. Often times the radio was tuned to follow the games of the Hawkeyes. Other activities included working puzzles and sewing. She was a long time member of the Rebekah Lodge #106, Mason City.

Survivors include her cousins and their families, Leland and his wife, Beulah Hummel of Klemme, Ron and his wife, Beverly Hummel of Ankeny, Lois and her husband, Jon Finlayson of Mason City and Gary and his wife, Ann Hummel of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Also surviving are her half-sisters and half-brothers, June Okland and her husband, Henry of Stonyford, California, Alice Tabb of Westminster, Colorado, Joan Anderson of Jackson, Missouri, Marvin Perkins and his wife, Carol of Forest City, Ramona Groebner and her husband, Donald of New Ulm, Minnesota, Patricia Penning and her husband, Leslie of Algona, Allen Perkins of Quartzite, Arizona, Robert Perkins and his wife, Marilyn of Britt, Karen Reher and her husband, Richard of Custer, Michigan and Kathleen Dorr of Belmond and their families; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friends, Dagny Schmidt, Ardell "Ardy" and Marcy Flaten and Phyllis Echelberger.

She was preceded in death by her parents; aunt and uncle, Alice and Hugh Hummel; and three brothers, Delbert, Jerry, and Ronald Perkins.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Services Held For Nedved Infants

May 18, 2005

Tate C. and McCoy T. Nedved, the pre-term sons of Travis and Carrie (Kopacek) Nedved, died at the Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, Friday, May 6, 2005.

A private family service was held on Tuesday, May 10, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Winterset. The Rev. Steve Koch officiated. The Ochiltree Funeral Service and Aftercare of Winterset was in charge of the arrangements.

Survivors include their parents, Travis and Carrie Nedved of Winterset; paternal grandparents, Mareen Nedved of Forest City, Vern and his wife, Pam Nedved of Humboldt; maternal grandparents, Don and Kay Kopacek of Britt; paternal great-grandparents, Leo and Dorothy Nedved of Garner, Gordon and Shirley Haes of Garner; maternal great-grandparents, Vince and Rose Kopacek of Britt; and also aunts, uncles and cousins.

Tate and McCoy were preceded in death by their grandparents, Ray and Marie Hejlik; and aunt, Jennifer Nedved.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Vivian E. Smith, 1923-2005

May 11, 2005

Vivian Ethel (Mewes) Smith, of Britt, died on Saturday, May 7, 2005, at the Westview Care Center in Britt. She was 81.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 11, at 10:30 a.m., at the United Methodist Church in Britt, with the Rev. Robert Dodge officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery in Britt.

Friends may greet the family on Tuesday, May 10, 2005, from 5-7:00 p.m., at the Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel, 178 Center Street West in Britt and one hour prior to services at the church.

Vivian, the daughter of Lester and Wilma (Brown) Mewes, was born on July 18, 1923 in West Salem, Illinois. She lived in West Salem until age six, at which time the family moved to Fisher, Illinois. The family later moved to Monticello, Illinois, where Vivian graduated from high school.

Vivian was united in marriage with Delos Smith on June 29, 1941 in St. Charles, Missouri. The couple farmed near Mansfield, Illinois until 1955, at which time they moved to Britt. They continued to farm near Britt from 1955 until retiring in 1995.

They began spending time in Florida in 1950 and continued to go there until 1974. In 1974, they began wintering in South Texas. Vivian enjoyed playing cards, traveling, sewing, and riding horses. She also enjoyed time spent with her grandchildren.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Britt and the ladies circle. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, where she was a past Worthy Matron of Eastern Star Lodge #318 in Britt and later the Prudence Lodge in Algona.

Vivian is survived by her husband, Delos; son, Dan Smith and his wife, Brenda of Britt; daughter, Sandra Fuller and her husband, Jim of Gordonville, Texas; five grandchildren, Bobbie Jo, Dustie, Charity, and David Smith and Clay Fuller; nephew, Keith Mewes; sister-in-law, Judy Mewes and her niece, Karen's family, husband Allen, Kaitland and Christopher.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Virgil; and niece, Karen.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Merle C. Been, 1933-2005

May 25, 2005

Merle C. Been, 72, of Belmond, died on Monday, May 9, 2005, at his home.

Funeral services were held on Friday, May 13, at the United Methodist Church. The Rev. Michael Druhl officiated. Burial was in the Belmond Cemetery. The Dugger Ewing Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Merle C. Been, was born on January 21, 1933, to William "Harley" Been and Leona (Saltzman) Been in Tingley. He completed high school in 1951.

He married Doris Johnson at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, on October 4, 1952. They began their married life in Newton, where he was employed by Wilding Plumbing & Heating. Merle was a veteran of the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged in 1956. The couple had three children, Steven, Jonel, and Rodney.

Merle entered into various positions in Des Moines related to the printing industry. In 1965 he purchased the Town & Country Advertiser of Wesley, and started The Reminder in Belmond, this led to the beginning of Printing Services Inc. The publication and the printing company expanded many times over the years and now houses the main production plant in Belmond with satellite offices in Mason City and Webster City.

In addition to being owner and president of Printing Services, Inc., Merle was the owner of the Winter Texan Publication and co-owner of Farm & Home Publishers, City Directory, Inc., Action Associates and True Value Farm & Home.

Various other business "ventures" over the years were, Cornbelt Horseman News, Kanawha Reporter, Webster City Shopper, Iowa Falls Shopper, Hampton Shopper, Northwood Office Supplies & Shopper, Britt Town & Country Advertiser, Hunter Ross Publications, American Woods, Wright Fabrication, Model Cleaners, Sports Cages and Ministry Management.

He was a member of the Belmond Chamber of Commerce, the Belmond Industrial Development Corporation and the Luick Trust for 21 years. He was involved with the Belmond Scouting Program, the Belmond Lions Club and was a charter member, of the Belmond Country Club.

He was active in the Belmond Jaycees and a member of the Lake Cornelia Improvement Association. He was a board member of the Midwest Free Community Papers. Through this organization he was honored with the highest award, Past Presidential Memorial Award and was honored with a Merle C. Been night where an annual scholarship was established in his name.

Merle was member of the Belmond United Methodist Church and served on various committees and boards.

Survivors include his wife, Doris; sons, Steven (Jeri) and Rodney (Laurie), daughter, Jonel Worden (Brian) all of Belmond; sisters, Maudeene Swinehart (Bud) of Des Moines, Marrabell Schulz (Earl) of Vancouver, Washington, Mardell Donner (Don) of Augusta, Georgia; brother, Milo (Naomi) of West Des Moines; sisters-in-law, Lillian Been of Palm Harbor, Florida, Nila Been of Goodland, Kansas, Chrystal Johnson of Waverly, Nebraska, Willie Johnson of Newton, Cleone Thompson, Louise Johnson, Cleone Hosfield and Pat Johnson all of Mount Ayr; nine grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; two sisters; his father and mother-in-law; two sisters-in-law; and 12 brothers-in-law.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Morris Nuehring, 1921-2005

May 25, 2005

Morris "Chap" Nuehring, 83, of the Kanawha/Britt area, died on Wednesday, May 11, 2005, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 14, at the United Methodist Church in Britt. The Rev. Robert Dodge officiated. Music was provided by organist, Marilyn DeKruyff who accompanied soloist, James Sweers and congregational hymns.

Casket bearers were Ronald VanNurden, Wesley VanNurden, Dale VerHelst, Merlyn Eckes, Douglas Eckes, Robert Sheriff, Duane VanNurden, Steven VanNurden and Neil Nuehring. Interment was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme, with the Rev. Donna Buckman officiating at the graveside service. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangement.

Morris Albert (Chap) Nuehring was born in Liberty Township on August 28, 1921, to Owen and Blanche (Montgomery) Nuehring. When he was 3 years old the family moved southwest of Klemme. He was baptized and confirmed at the Immanuel Reformed Church in Klemme. He attended country school in Twin Lakes Township. He graduated from the Klemme High School in 1939. After graduation he worked for his father and many of their neighbors.

On February 25, 1950, he married Margaret F. Carolus at the Goodell parsonage. They moved to the farm northeast of Kanawha where they lived for 55 years. To this marriage, three sons were born.

He enjoyed farming and was an award-winning livestock producer. He was named Iowa Master Pork Producer in 1963. He farmed until his retirement in 1986. He continued to help his son farm for a number of years.

He served on the church consistory as deacon, elder, and congregational president of the Immanuel Reformed UCC in Klemme. He later became a member of the Britt United Methodist Church.

He served on the Hancock County Farm Bureau Board for a number of years. He was active in the Hancock County Elderbridge serving as president and was awarded the Outstanding Senior Citizen for Hancock County. In 1996, Governor Vilsack honored him with the Governor's Volunteer Award.

Chap was a loving father and grandfather. He enjoyed watching sports and was a fan of the Hawkeyes and Cyclones.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Margaret; children and grandchildren, Marvin and Phyllis of Kanawha and their children, Angela and fiancée, Josh Nick of Round Lake Beach, Illinois, Lindsey of Owatonna, Minnesota and James of Kanawha; Milvern and Judy and their children, Megan and Jon of Lombard, Illinois; Monte and Candice and their children, Cayce, Jacob and Emmett of Denver.

Survivors also include his sisters, Dorothy Brede of Goodell, Mavis Eckes of Long Prairie, Minnesota, Marie Ver Helst of Klemme, Inez (Bruce) Dunbar of Mason City; his brothers, Dean of Osage, Ralph of Klemme, Keith (Wilma) of Webster City; his sister-in-law, Doris Nuehring of Belmond; his brother-in-law, Art Kemp of Colome, South Dakota; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, A. LeRoy (Josephine) Carolus of Belmond and Harlan (Betty) Carolus of Klemme; and many nieces and nephews.

Chap was preceded in death by his parents, Owen and Blanche; two brothers, Lorril and Lyle; three sisters, Clara Bier, Grace Kemp and Betty Van Nurden; along with several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Ruth M. Gardner, 1921-2005

May 18, 2005

Ruth M. (Seefeld) Gardner, 84, of Wesley, died on Thursday, May 12, 2005, at the Lutz Wing of the Fairmont Medical Center.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 17, at the United Methodist Church in Britt, with the Rev. Robert Dodge officiating. Music was provided by organist, Tammy Johnson who accompanied soloist, Gene Guenther and congregational hymns. Ushers were Dennis Zuehl and Harry Smith.

Casket bearers were Lance Gardner, Jason Gardner, Douglas Tobin, Brian Tobin, Duane DeWaard and Roger Seefeld. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Wesley. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Ruth Mary Gardner, the daughter of Fred and Caroline (Nelson) Seefeld, was born on February 6, 1921 at Wesley. She attended the rural schools near Wesley and graduated from the Wesley High School in 1939.

On January 7, 1942, she was married to Leon D. Gardner at the United Methodist Church in Wesley. They farmed near Burt for a year before moving to her father's farm northeast of Wesley, where they continued farming until retiring in 1981. Following their retirement they continued to live on the farm.

She became a resident of Ingleside Assisted Living in Fairmont in July of 2004. Ruth enjoyed gardening, flowers, crocheting, playing the organ and piano and spending time with her family. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Britt.

Ruth is survived by three children, Dianne Rosenberg and her husband, Ron of Welcome, Minnesota, Richard Gardner and his special friend, Bev Everett of Woden and Marlene McDonnell and her husband, Patrick of Eagan, Minnesota; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, John Gardner of Elgin, Illinois and Curtis Gardner of Algona; and a sister-in-law, Trella Blackman of Des Moines.

Ruth's husband, Leon D. Gardner, died on Saturday, May 14, 2005 and his obituary appears below.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Kathleen in April of 1993; and an infant grandson.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Ruth C. Kargas, 1912-2005

May 18, 2005

Ruth C. Kargas, 93, of Garner, died on Friday, May 13, 2005, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital, Britt.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 17, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church, with Fr. Jerry Blake officiating. Donna Young was the lector. Music was provided by organist, Carolyn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Robert Kral and Lawrence Engstler.

Casket bearers were Ken Meister, Scott Kargas, Barry Kargas, Matt Kargas, Jeremy Kargas and Doug Roul. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Ruth Caroline Kargas, the daughter of Fred and Martha (Katterhenry) Simmons, was born on January 3, 1912 at Garner. She attended rural schools and the Garner High School.

On November 7, 1931, she was married to Nick Kargas at Emmetsburg. They made their home in Garner where Ruth resided the rest of her life. Nick and Ruth are best remembered as owners and operators of the Savoy Cafe in Garner. Ruth also worked at Goodnature's in Garner for 22 years. She enjoyed her family, cooking, crafts, bowling, traveling and being with friends.

She was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church, Rosary Society, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, and the Garner Wa-Tan-Ye Club.

Ruth is survived by her three children, James (Robin) Kargas of Tucson, Arizona, Donna (Jerry) Reynolds of Rochester, Minnesota and Shirley (William) Meister of Lake Mills; six grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Nicholas on February 9, 1965; two sisters, Emily Roul and Evelyn Roul; and three brothers, Aaron, Victor and Donald Simmons.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Donald D. Busick, 1934-2005

May 18, 2005

Donald "Booie" D. Busick, 71, of Forest City, died on Friday, May 13, 2005, at the Muse Norris Hospice Center, Mason City, after a long battle with cancer.

Funeral services were held at the Andrews Funeral Home in Belmond, on Monday, May 16.

Donald Duane Busick, was born on January 2, 1934 in Belmond. He was the second oldest son of 11 children born to Dale and Alice (McMannus) Busick. Donald attended school in Belmond and later earned his GED while serving in the Marine Corps.

After his service, he worked in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where he married his future wife, Rosada Poston in 1958. From this union, their daughter, Suzette Ondine was born.

They then returned to Belmond, where he worked for Acco Seeds for many years, working test plots, germinating corn, etc. Their marriage was later dissolved. A few years later, he started working for Winnebago Industries as a press operator, moving his residence to Forest City and retiring in 1996 at age 62.

In his leisure time, Don enjoyed fishing, bowling, horse shoe tournaments and playing harmonicas. He was the Wright County and Belmond City bowling champion in the mid 1950s. He took great pride in being the first bowler to roll a 700 scratch series, in 1958, at the Bowl Mor Lanes in Belmond. He enjoyed visiting, and always had a story or a joke or two for everyone.

Don enjoyed times spent dining, coffeeing, and visiting with his friends and family at the Sportsman's Cafe, Forest City. In his later years, he enjoyed watching old classic movies (primarily western and suspense) with his dog "Max" at his side. He also developed a special relationship with the Winnebago transit and local taxi driver, Ron Bronson (after he could no longer drive himself), who took him for shopping and medical appointments. He had much praise for Helen Alne (Alne Acres), who cared for Max when he had to be away from home.

Survivors include his daughter, Suzette Hughes (Keith) of Trusedale; three brothers, Darwin Busick (Joan) from Haverhill, Massachusetts, Ken Busick (Carol) of Mason City and Doug Busick of Britt; three sisters, Shirlene Van Den Heuvel (George) of Klemme; Remae Schuver (Eddie) of Goodell and Rosetta Busick and special friend, Jim Peterson of Lake Cornelia.

Other survivors include several aunts; 28 nieces and nephews; 53 great nieces and nephews; a special friend, Jean Thompson; and many other friends and his faithful companion "Max."

He was preceded in death by Rose; his paternal and maternal grandparents; his parents, Dale and Alice; an older brother, Dale Jr.; a younger brother, Darrel and brother, Harold; and his sister, Darlene Baker; and also his father and mother-in-law, Doug and Florence Poston.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Leon D. Gardner, 1918-2005

May 18, 2005

Leon D. Gardner, 87, of Wesley, died on Saturday, May 14, 2005, at the Algona Good Samaritan Center from heart failure and complications of Alzheimer's disease.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 17, at the United Methodist Church in Britt, with the Rev. Robert Dodge officiating. Music was provided by organist, Tammy Johnson, who accompanied soloist, Gene Guenther and congregational hymns. Ushers were Dennis Zuehl and Harry Smith.

Casket bearers were Lance Gardner, Jason Gardner, Douglas Tobin, Brian Tobin, Duane DeWaard and Roger Seefeld. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery, Wesley. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Leon Delos Gardner, the son of Delos and Marguerite (Moore) Gardner, was born on February 23, 1918 at Algona. He attended the rural schools of Kossuth County. Following his schooling, he worked as a hired man for farmers in the Burt area for a few years and then farmed on his own.

On January 7, 1942, he married Ruth M. Seefeld at the United Methodist Church in Wesley. They farmed near Burt for a year before moving to Ruth's father's farm northeast of Wesley, where they continued farming until retiring in 1981. Following their retirement they continued to live on the farm.

Leon became a resident of the Algona Good Samaritan Center in June of 2003. He enjoyed his family, farming and having coffee with his friends in town. Leon was a member of the United Methodist Church in Britt.

He is survived by his three children, Dianne Rosenberg and her husband, Ron of Welcome, Minnesota, Richard Gardner and his special friend, Bev Everett of Woden and Marlene McDonnell and her husband, Patrick of Eagan, Minnesota; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers, John Gardner of Elgin, Illinois and Curtis Gardner of Algona; and a sister, Trella Blackman of Des Moines.

Leon was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth; his parents; daughter, Kathleen in April of 1993; an infant grandson; a brother, Mervin Gardner; a sister, Lois Camp; two brothers-in-law, Jim Camp and Robert Blackman; and two sisters-in-law, Jo Gardner and Shirley Gardner.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Jacquelyn I. Raw, 1929-2005

June 1, 2005

Funeral services for former Garner resident, Jacquelyn "Jackie" Raw, 76, of Pendleton, Oregon, were held on Thursday, May 19, at the Peace Lutheran Church of Pendleton. Mrs. Raw died on Saturday, May 14, 2005, at her home in Oregon.

Burial was in the Olney Cemetery. The Burns Mortuary of Pendleton was in charge of the arrangements.

Jacquelyn Irene Raw, was born on March 1, 1929 at Mason City. She was the daughter of Paul and Edith (Katter) Elling. She graduated from the Garner High School in 1947 and attended the St. Elizabeth's School of Nursing in Washington, D.C.

On September 7, 1949, she married Richard Raw. They lived in Denver, Colorado and Kansas City, Missouri, where she worked for an ophthalmologist. They returned to Iowa in 1952 where their son, Winston, was born. Their daughter, Kim, was born after they moved to Pendleton in 1955.

A resident of Pendleton for 50 years, Jacquelyn Raw was active in the Calvary Baptist Church. She taught Sunday School for 40 years, was a Good News Club teacher and continued to be active in Child Evangelism Fellowship work. She was a volunteer for hospice, the Salvation Army, SMART Program, a ministry at Eastern Oregon Psychiatric Center and with small groups at the Elizabethan and Sunridge retirement homes. She was employed as a youth coordinator for the East Central Oregon Association of Counties for 25 years. She enjoyed her clients and found them to be a challenge.

In later years she attended the Peace Lutheran Church where she worked in Christian Education. She was active in Christian mission work for overseas counties, repackaging medicine and making bandages from sheets. She enjoyed tennis, snow skiing and hiking. She was a member of the Red Hat Club and the Peace Lutheran Church.

Survivors include her son, Winston E. Raw and wife, Kathy of Hermiston, Oregon; daughter, Kim Berg and her husband, Dan of Kennewick, Oregon; and a granddaughter, Emmery Raw.

Survivors also include a brother, Kay C. Elling of Salem, Oregon; sisters-in-law, Kathryn Gatchel of Garner and Norma Jean Collier of Clarion; and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard E. Raw on December 1, 2000; and her parents.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Dorothy Pringnitz, 1913-2005

May 25, 2005

Dorothy J. Pringnitz, 91, of Garner, died on Tuesday, May 17, 2005, at the Hampton Health Care Center.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 21, at the United Methodist Church in Garner, with the Rev. David Wagner officiating. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied soloist, Warren Torkelson. Maynard and Marvin Schoneman ushered.

Casket bearers were Brian Klein, Alan Klein, Randy Klein, Doug Pringnitz, Dusty Pringnitz and Neil Haugland. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Dorothy June Pringnitz, the daughter of Henry and Lena (Werner) Helps, was born on June 6, 1913 at Clarion. She attended school at Klemme.

On September 5, 1931, she was married to Ernest Pringnitz at Galena, Illinois. They farmed in the Klemme and Garner areas. After the death of her husband in 1974, she moved to Garner. In 2003, she moved to the Prairie View Apartments in Garner.

Dorothy enjoyed her family, flowers, cooking, baking and crossword puzzles. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Garner and UMW.

Survivors include her daughter, Beverly Klein and husband, Raymond of Hampton; her son, Roger H. Pringnitz of Fayetteville, Arkansas; her daughter-in-law, Jean Sheets and husband, Eldon of Britt; six grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest; parents; son, Raymond D. Pringnitz in 1995; three grandsons, Dan Pringnitz, Glenn Klein and Michael Pringnitz; and two brothers, Harlow and Dwight Helps.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Leona L. Abbas, 1926-2005

June 1, 2005

Leona Lavonne (Carlson) Abbas, of Kanawha, died on Sunday, May 22, 2005, at the Wright Medical Center in Clarion, following a battle with cancer. She was 79.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 25, at the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church. The Rev. Chuck Walton officiated. Music was provided by organist, Marilyn DeKruyff who accompanied soloist, Paula Abbas and congregational hymns.

Casket bearers were Dave Ondersma, Bryan Freerksen, Todd Liekweg, Tony Carlson, Kenny Weiland, Scott Eliason and Tom Miedema. Burial was in the Amsterdam Township Cemetery, Kanawha. Funeral services were under the direction of the Ewing-Dugger Funeral Chapel, Kanawha.

Leona, the daughter of Adolph and Ruth (Paskin) Carlson, was born on January 3, 1926, on a farm west of Kanawha. She was baptized in the St. John's Lutheran Church in 1926 and later became a member of the Kanawha Methodist Church. She attended rural schools and graduated from the Kanawha High School in 1943.

On September 9, 1943, Leona was united in marriage with Ion Freerksen at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. To this union two children were born, Arlene and Richard. The couple made their home and farmed in the Kanawha area until they retired due to Ion's failing health. They moved into Kanawha in 1968. Ion died on January 8, 1980.

Leona was employed at the Kanawha Co-op Elevator for a number of years, retiring in May of 1991. Following her retirement, she moved to Michigan to be near her son and his family.

On April 16, 1999, Leona was united in marriage with Donald Abbas in Jenison, Michigan and they returned to Kanawha to live. She was a faithful member of the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church. She was an avid seamstress and enjoyed baking.

Survivors include her husband, Donald Abbas of Kanawha; two children, Arlene Goemaat and her husband, Larry of Lakewood, California and Richard Freerksen and his wife, Ruth of Grand Rapids, Michigan; two step-children, Darl Abbas and his wife, Paula of Kanawha and Lois Mouw and her husband, Glen of Sioux Center; eight grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and four step-great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are five sisters, Marjorie Omvig of Kanawha, Maxine Eliason and her husband, Cecil of Kanawha, Elaine Weiland of Klemme, Jeanette (Jeanie) Bonjour of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Janice Liekweg and her husband, Rex of Rockwell; one brother, Carroll Carlson and his wife, Beverly of Owatonna, Minnesota; and sister-in-law, Jeanne Carlson of Kanawha.

She was preceded in death by her parents in 1979; her first husband, Ion in 1980; two brothers, Leo in 1969 and Harlan in 2004; and an infant sister in 1943.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

James E. Ormsby, 1912-2005

June 1, 2005

James E. "Jim" Ormsby, of Forest City, formerly of rural Ventura, died on Tuesday, May 24, 2005, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit, Mason City. He was 92.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 28, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Clear Lake. Military honors were provided by the Clear Lake VFW. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of the arrangements.

Jim Ormsby, was born on August 7, 1912 in Woden. He was the son of John and Josie (McCroden) Ormsby. He attended parochial schools in Wesley and the Wesley High School. Jim farmed until entering the U.S. Army during WW II.

He married Maxine Thronson on October 22, 1946, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church, Garner. They continued to live on Maxine's family farm south of Ventura. Jim painted for over 40 years and also helped on the farm. Maxine and Jim were married 56 years.

Jim enjoyed playing the guitar, harmonica and violin, and entertaining at nursing homes. Jim and Maxine loved to dance and won a dance contest at the Surf. Jim took pride in his faith, family and music.

He was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Counsel #7897 of the St. Boniface Catholic Church, Garner and enjoyed singing in the church choir.

Survivors include three daughters, Kathy Meinecke and her husband, Don of Forest City, Karen Purcell and her husband, Dan of Clear Lake and Joan Losey and her husband, Brad of Clear Lake; seven grandchildren, Christopher and Jennifer Meinecke, Michael and special friend, Carmen, Matthew, Benjamin and Rachel Purcell and Courtney Losey; one sister, Mary Ormsby of Sacramento, California; and many special cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Maxine on October 5, 2003; a granddaughter, Sara Purcell: brother, Joe Ormsby; sister, Eileen Kearney; and an infant sister.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Russell Armfield, 1915-2005

June 8, 2005

Russell William Armfield, of Clear Lake, died on Monday, May 30, 2005, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City. He was 89 years old.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 3, at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, with Reverend Richard Scott of the Zion Lutheran Church in Clear Lake officiating. Burial was in the Zion Reformed Church Cemetery in Sheffield.

Russell William Armfield, was born on October 15, 1915 in Franklin County, the son of George and Mary (Sheperd) Armfield. He attended and received his education in the Hansell School System. He was united in marriage to Tina Van Horn on February 22, 1940, in Sheffield. She preceded him in death.

Russell farmed his entire life in the Sheffield and Swaledale area before moving to Clear Lake in 1975. He was united in marriage to Elsie Shook on October 15, 1979, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua.

He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, bowling, camping, traveling especially wintering in Yuma, Arizona, playing pool and cards at the Senior Citizens Center in Clear Lake, but his great love and enjoyment was being a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He was a member of the Senior Citizens Center in Clear Lake, and was a former member of the Zion Reformed Church in Sheffield, and attended the Evangelical Free Church in Clear Lake.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Elsie Armfield of Clear Lake; two sons, Roger Armfield and his wife, Renett of Victoria, Texas and Larry Armfield of Garner; two step-sons, Roger Shook and his wife, Alicia of Stanwood and Larry Shook and his wife, Sharon of Clear Lake; two grandchildren, Dean and Daniel Armfield; a great-grandson, Bret Armfield; five step-grandchildren, Matthew Shook and his wife, Heather, Jenny Stolley and her husband, Doug, Neil Shook and his wife, Cami, Julie Muth and her husband, Shane and Cory Shook; nine step-great grandchildren; a brother, Kenneth Armfield and his wife, Mildred of Latimer; and a sister-in-law, Lena Armfield of Hampton; as well as several nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.

Besides his first wife, Tina; he was also preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Donald and Raymond Armfield.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005

Michael W. Ades, 1969-2005

June 8, 2005

Michael "Mike" W. Ades, 36, of Woden, died on Tuesday May 31, 2005, in a traffic accident near Crystal Lake.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 3, 2005, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, Clear Lake. The Rev. Jan Burnett and the Rev. Bill Poland officiated. Interment was in the Grant Township Cemetery, rural Fertile. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of the arrangements.

Mike Ades, was born May 13, 1969 in Sheldon. He was the son of Carl and Wilma (McCollough) Ades. He graduated from the Clear Lake High School in 1987. Following high school he attended North Iowa Area Community College. He was an Eagle Scout and with the help of Troop #30 built a bat roost at the Lime Creek Nature Center as his Eagle Scout project.

Mike married Jami Johnson on May 18, 1991 in Forest City. They moved to Volga, South Dakota and lived there until the fall of 1993. They then returned to the Forest City area and started working for Winnebago Industries.

Mike loved the outdoors, fishing, hunting, trapping, mushroom hunting, eating ice cream, his dog Mattie, camping, cooking and especially spending time with his family. His daughters, his nieces and nephews were very special to him. He grew up attending the Clear Lake United Methodist Church and was a member of the Trappers Association and Ducks Unlimited.

Survivors include his wife, Jami Ades of Woden; three children, Sydney, Sadhna and Samara (Sammi) Ades; his parents, Carl and Wilma Ades, Clear Lake; two brothers and one sister, Jerry Ades and his wife, Sheila of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Beth Hanson and her husband, Mike of Lake Mills and Mark Ades and his wife, Molly of Belmond.

Also surviving are his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Raymond and Deidre Johnson of Forest City; sister-in-law and brother-in-laws, Jodi Fank and her husband, Dan of Manly and Cody Johnson of Forest City, Iowa; also many nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and a host of friends.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2005