Fannie Maude Kittleson

January 7, 2004

Fannie Maude (Faas) Kittleson, age 94, of St. Ansgar, died on Friday, January 2, 2004, at the Good Samaritan Center in St. Ansgar, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 6, at the First Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar, with Reverend Robert Porisch officiating. Burial was in the First Lutheran Cemetery, St. Ansgar.

Fannie was born on February 13, 1909 in Stacyville, Iowa, to Georgie and Ermina (Penney) Faas. She attended grade school in Stacyville and graduated from the Osage High School. She married Alton "Bud" Kittleson on June 2, 1931. She worked for McKinley's in the cabbage and potato fields, St. Ansgar Produce and Tillie's Cafe. She liked to work crossword puzzles, play cards, read and embroider. She enjoyed playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Roger and Barbara Wilder of St. Ansgar; daughter-in-law, Violet Kittleson of Lake City, Minnesota; four granddaughters, Nancy (Randy) Hackenmiller, Linda (Glen) Hatten, Becky (Mike) Dobson, Sandy (Mike) Miller; three grandsons, Sam (Lisa) Kittleson, Don (Andrea) Kittleson, Kent Wilder; six great-grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren.

Fannie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Alton "Bud" Kittleson in 1984; one sister; two brothers; her son, Alton Kittleson; and one grandson, Kevin Wilder.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Ida Clairine Bisbee

January 7, 2004

Ida Clairine Bisbee, age 95, of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, died on Saturday, January 3, 2004, at the Lakeland Health Care Center.

Private services were held on Tuesday, January 6, at the Haase-Derrick-Lockwood Funeral Home located in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Graveside services were held on Wednesday, January 7, at the Grandview Memorial Gardens in Austin, Minnesota.

Ida Bisbee, was born on May 30, 1908 in Osage, the daughter of Ole and Anna Marie (Heggerusta) Lindley. Ida married Raymond Bisbee on October 19, 1933 in Osage, Iowa. He died on May 9, 1966. Ida was a homemaker and loving mother and grandmother.

Ida's survivors include her children, Vincent Ray (Lila) Bisbee of Antioch, Illinois, Shirley Clairine (Arthur) Mumm of Elkhorn, Wisconsin and Connie Clairine (Galen) Lehnhardt of New Port News, Virginia; eight grandchildren, Cathy (Charles) Herman, Cynthia (Jon) Olson, Randy (Julie) Mumm, Scott (JoAnn) Mumm, Lori Mumm, Nicole Wade, Cassie Dixon and Melissa (John) Fultz; and seventeen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond; grandson, David Ray Bisbee; 11 siblings, Sarah Hottran, Oscar Lindley, Carl Lindley, Olava Koch, Ida (Dau) Lindley, Clara Wherry, Laura Wherry, Levi Lindley, Melvin Lindley, Clarence Lindley and Alice Schulz.

Funeral arrangements were completed by the Haase-Derrick-Lockwood Funeral Homes, Inc., Elkhorn, Wisconsin.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Elverna E. Leist

January 14, 2004

Elverna E. Leist, age 86, died on Sunday, January 4, 2004, at the Riceville Community Rest Home in Riceville. She was formerly of Osage and the Le Roy area.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 7, at the Le Roy Lutheran Church in Le Roy, Minnesota. The Rev. Thomas Kolden officiated. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery in Riceville.

Elverna Elizabeth Ramsvig, was born in Thor, Iowa on March 18, 1917, to Louis and Inga (Michalson) Ramsvig. She graduated from the Thor High School. On June 11, 1936, she was united in marriage to Joseph Earl Leist at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa and to this union four children were born, a son Doug and daughters, Carol Jean, Jan and Linda. They lived in the Humboldt, Iowa area and in 1951 bought a farm in Oakdale Township, Howard County, Iowa. They lived there until moving to Osage in 1997.

She was a 53-year member of the Le Roy Lutheran Church which was a very important part of her life. She enjoyed cooking and baking.

Her survivors include one son, Doug (Jan) Leist of Chester, Iowa; three daughters, Carol Jean (Richard) Pearce of Grinnell, Iowa, Jan Leist of Tucson, Arizona and Linda (Robert) Evenson of Osage; 16 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; one sister; and four brothers.

Elverna was preceded in death by her parents; husband; one grandson; one great-granddaughter; one sister; and four brothers.

The Hindt Hutchins Funeral Home, Le Roy, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Edwin William Hein

January 21, 2004

Edwin William Hein, age 88, of Osage, died on Monday, January 12, 2004, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 17, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Dennis Hanson and Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Hospice of North Iowa, Our Savior's Lutheran Church or Faith Lutheran Home.

Edwin was born on a farm near Dunkerton, Iowa on May 15, 1915, the son of William and Minnie (Groff) Hein. He was baptized at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Bennington Township near Dunkerton. He moved with his parents to a farm in Mitchell County near New Haven at the age of one. Edwin received his education at the Douglas Township #1 School. He was confirmed at the Osage Lutheran Church (Our Savior's) in Osage. He was united in marriage to Clarice Paulson of rural Plymouth, on August 18, 1935, at the Rock Creek Lutheran Church. They lived on a farm near New Haven until 1942, when they purchased and moved to a farm in Burr Oak Township, Mitchell County. Four children, (Russell, Bob, Allan & Carol), were born and grew to adulthood here. They lived there until 1985 when they retired and moved to their new home in Osage.

Edwin was a lifelong member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church. He served on several boards, including Board of Finances during the building of the church. He was also active in Lutheran Brotherhood at that time. Edwin moved into the Faith Lutheran Home in January of 2001 where he remained until his death.

Edwin is survived by four children, Russell Hein and his wife, Gloria of Little Cedar, Bob Hein and his wife, Ann of Winfield, Illinois, Allan Hein and his wife, Janis of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin and Carol Dill and her husband, Gordon of Salinas, California; 12 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Minnie; his wife, Clarice in June 2001; grandson, Scott Meyer; and one sister, Gladys Eagen.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Elfrieda M. Muller

January 14, 2004

Elfrieda M. Muller, 95, of Truman, Minnesota, died on Monday morning, January 12, 2004, at the Lutheran Retirement Home in Truman.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, January 15, at the Lutheran Retirement Home in Truman, with the Rev. Nathan Rusert of St. Paul's Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will be in the Osage Cemetery in Osage. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the nursing home. Funeral arrangements were made by the Olson-Zaharia Funeral Home in Truman. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the charity of the donor's choice.

Elfrieda Margaret Kerndt, the daughter of Richard and Margaret (Michael) Kerndt, was born in Berlin, Germany on January 13, 1908. She was confirmed on March 21, 1923 in Germany at a Lutheran Church. She attended a private school for girls in Germany. Elfrieda came to America and settled with other relatives in Oak Park, Illinois in 1923. On October 17, 1929, she was united in marriage to Fritz W. Muller in Oak Park. Following their marriage they farmed near Osage. Elfrieda became an American citizen on May 5, 1937. Mr. Muller died on July 14, 1976 and she continued to live in Osage and Forest City before moving to Minnesota. She has been a resident of the Lakeview Methodist Health Care Center in Fairmont and the Lutheran Retirement Home in Truman.

Elfrieda was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church and Trinity Lutheran Church of Osage.

She is survived by two daughters, Elaine Ritz and her husband, Raymond of Truman and Phyllis Disque and her husband, Richard of Forest City; grandchildren, Deb Manley of Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota, Monte Moore and his wife, Dawn of Forest City and Brett Moore of Lake Mills; great-grandchildren, Jacklyn Raye Gronholz, Caitlin and Mariah and Natalie and Riley Moore.

She was preceded in death by grandparents, William and Paulina Michael who made their home with the Mullers; parents, Richard and Margaret Kerndt; her husband, Fritz Muller; and a son, Ramon Muller.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Vianora L. Feldt

January 21, 2004

Vianora L. Feldt, 83, a lifelong resident of St. Ansgar, died on Monday, January 12, 2004, at the hospice unit of the Mitchell County Regional Health Center, Osage, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 15, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar. The Rev. Byron Northwick officiated. Burial was in the St. Johns Cemetery, Rock Township, Mitchell County, Iowa.

Vianora was born on April 28, 1920 in Rock Township, Mitchell County to Henry and Elizabeth (Neuman) Wilde. She was baptized in the Christian faith on May 16, 1920 and confirmed on March 25, 1934 at the St. Johns Lutheran Church, Rock Township. She attended rural Rock Township School. Vianora was united in marriage to Allen William Feldt on March 16, 1945 in Rochester, Minnesota. They farmed in rural Rock Township until Allen's death in 1960, from then on she farmed with the help of her family. As she retired she enjoyed gardening, quilting and reading, but her families enjoyment was her cookie baking skills that were enjoyed by all. The crowning joy of her life was her grandchildren, Al, Ray and Sher. Her pride in them knew no bounds. As Mike joined Sher in the family, her pride only increased. Their union gave her two great-grandchildren to fuss over and spoil. She derived much peace as she was administered to in the hospital by Ray's special friend Sue.

She is survived by her son, Charles and wife, Diane of rural St. Ansgar; grandson, Allen of Toeterville, Iowa; granddaughter, Sherry and husband, Mike Marr; great-grandchildren, Abby and Mitchel of rural Riceville; grandson, Ray of Toeterville and special friend, Sue Merton of Stacyville; one brother, Irvin Wilde and wife, Irene of Osage; sisters-in-law, Rose Wilde, Loreen Wilde and Ruth Wilde, all of Osage.

Vianora was preceded in death by her parents; husband; four brothers, Ferdinand, Roy, Arnold and Elmer; and two sisters, Wilma Hackbart and Alice Kuntz.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Hedwig "Hattie" Lorenz

January 21, 2004

Hedwig "Hattie" Lorenz, age 97, of Osage, died on Monday, January 12, 2004, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 16, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Dennis Hanson and Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery.

She was born on September 4, 1906 in Kensington, Kansas, the daughter of The Rev. John and Matilda (Beckman) Gemaehlich. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith by her father. On January 9, 1926, Hattie and M. R. "Ralph" Lorenz were united in marriage in Osage. To this union were born three daughters, Lois, Eunice and Janice.

She was a member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church, the VFW Auxiliary, the American Legion Auxiliary and its Past President's Auxiliary.

She is survived by three daughters, Lois (Richard) Moran of Roscommon, Michigan, Eunice (Kenneth) Anderson of Osage and Janice (John) Miller of Sun City West, Arizona; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph in 1974; six brothers; and two sisters.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Harvey Emil August Boettcher

January 21, 2004

Harvey Emil August Boettcher, 94, of St. Ansgar, died on Wednesday, January 14, 2004, at the Good Samaritan Center, St. Ansgar, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 17, at the First Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar, with Rev. Robert Porisch officiating. Burial was in the St. John's Cemetery, Rock Township.

Harvey was born on May 3, 1909, to Albert and Emma (Kronemann) Boettcher in Union Township, Worth County, Iowa. He was baptized on May 23, 1909 at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Grafton, with Henrietta Kruger, Emil Kronemann and August Volkman as sponsors. He was confirmed on April 13, 1934 at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Grafton. He attended school in Grafton. In his early years he was a member of the men's quartet who sang in the Grafton area. Harvey married Irene Rosenberg on October 19, 1939, at the St. John's Lutheran Church, Rock Township. They farmed in the Grafton and St. Ansgar areas until retiring to St. Ansgar in 1977.

He enjoyed farming and also bowling. He most enjoyed when he was with his Ford tractor, entering many tractor pulling contests. He entered the Good Samaritan Center, St. Ansgar, on March 3, 1999 and continued to enjoy flowers and plants in his room. He was a member of the First Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar.

Harvey is survived by two brothers-in-law; two sisters-in-law; special niece, Luella Pagel of Grafton; and many other nieces and nephews.

Harvey was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Irene in 1997; and five brothers.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Gary Lack

January 21, 2004

Gary Lack, age 58, of rural Nora Springs, died on Wednesday, January 14, 2004, at his home. 

A Memorial Mass was held on Saturday, January 17, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage, with Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Inurnment was in the Orchard Cemetery in Orchard, Iowa. The family suggests that memorials may be directed to the Lack Family Memorial Education Fund, Nora Springs, Iowa.

Gary was born on August 29, 1945 at Osage, Iowa, the son of Harold and Mildred (Kinney) Lack of rural Orchard, Iowa. He attended grade school in Orchard. He graduated from the Osage High School in 1963, where he participated in football and wrestling. Gary attended the University of Northern Iowa upon completion of high school. Gary married Veronica M. (Naumann) Lack on January 16, 1979. They resided in Rockford, Iowa until 1986, and then lived in Cedar Falls and Mason City, Iowa, until 1989, when they moved to Buffalo, Wyoming. They moved to their present address in 1993. Gary worked for a short time after college at the John Deere Foundry in Waterloo, Iowa. He then worked at Lehigh Portland Cement Company in Mason City for nearly 20 years, where he was a representative of Local D-106. Gary retired from Lehigh in 1985. In 1989, he and Veronica sold their home in Mason City and bought a motel in Wyoming. After four great years, the family exchanged their motel for the farm, where they now live.

Gary's hobbies and interests pertained mostly to his family. Since four of his children graduated from the University of Iowa, he was a strong supporter of Hawkeye athletics, primarily football and wrestling. He spent a great deal of time keeping up with the activities and ventures of his children.

He is survived by his wife, Veronica M. Lack of Nora Springs; six children, Dr. Anthony L. Lack of Baytown, Texas, Heidi M. (Dr. Robert) Thunhorst of Iowa City, Tanya R. (Shawn) Hamilton of Kansas City, Missouri, Benjamin J. (Fernanda De Collo) Lack of West Des Moines, Adam M. Lack of Nora Springs and William D. Lack and his fiancée, Brandi Moon of Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts; three grandchildren, Erica N. Lack, Gustav M. Thunhorst, Gabriella D. Lack; his father, Harold Lack of Orchard; one brother, James (Helen) Lack of Orchard; one sister, Margaret Lack and husband, Stewart of Hood, Virginia; paternal aunt, Marilyn (Philip) Larson of Mission, Texas; and many cousins.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Lack; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Raymond Joseph Power

January 21, 2004

Raymond Joseph Power, age 65, of Osage, died at home on Wednesday, January 14, 2004, after a long battle with cancer.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 19, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage, with Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Interment was in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Osage, with Military Honors at the grave by the Osage American Legion Post 278.

Ray was born in Elma, Iowa, on September 17, 1938, to George C. and Helena (Boehmer) Power. He graduated from the Osage High School, then served 4 years in the Navy. In 1963, he was united in marriage to Carol (Wolff) Power. They were blessed with 7 wonderful children. Ray was employed at Oliver-White Farms for 27 years. From 1983 to 1988, Raymond and Carol owned and operated a family restaurant in Scranton, Iowa. Upon returning to Osage, he was employed with Adams Painting and Drywall, until his retirement in 2000.

Raymond enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and working with his horses and dogs.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Carol Power of Osage; 7 children, Deanna (Troy) Machin of Osage, Sheila (Dan) Adams of St. Ansgar, Rachael (Kenneth) Kimmey of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Theresa (Robert) Ahlf of St. Ansgar, Rebecca Secrist and friend, Chuck Hurley of Osage, Rodney Power of Osage and Rhonda (Larry) Muller of Osage; 17 grandchildren, Anthony and wife, Emily, Wade, Amber and Ashley Machin; Derrick, Crystal and Heather Adams; Anna and Jessica Kimmey; Cory, Cylea and Caylin Ahlf; Jordan and Stephanie Ackerman and Trevor Secrist; Sophia and Owen Muller; two brothers, Cliff Powers of St. Ansgar and Tom (Zoe) Powers of Kensett; two sisters, Donna Mae Mobley of Osage and Sandra (Dallas) Bushbaum of Mason City; one sister-in-law, Bev (Don) Griga of St. Ansgar; and numerous nieces, nephews and many close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Helena Power; brother, Roger Lee Power; sister-in-law, Sue Powers; two brothers-in-law, Gary Wolff and Dick Mobley; and his parents-in-law, Ted and Ruth Wolff.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Gerald L. Warrington

January 21, 2004

Gerald L. Warrington, 81, passed away late Friday evening, January 16, 2004, in Charles City, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 21, at 11:00 a.m., at the New Life Community Church, Charles City. The Reverend Michael McAbee officiated. Burial was in the Sunnyside Memory Gardens, rural Charles City.

Gerald was born on September 13, 1922 at Lyle, Minnesota, the son of Clifford "Lavern" and Mabel (Basford) Warrington. He moved to Kensett at the age of 5½ after his mother's death. He was then raised by his aunt, attending and graduating from high school there. When returning to Iowa after serving in the Navy during WW II, he was united in marriage to Irma Hoblit on May 24, 1944 in rural Little Cedar, Iowa. Irma passed away on June 13, 1999. Gerald was an auto parts manager for 42 years at Standard Battery Electric from 1950-1992.

He belonged to the American Legion and lived in Charles City for 58 years. On July 15, 2000, Gerald and Anna were united in marriage at the Little Brown Church, Nashua, Iowa.

Survivors include his wife, Anna; two sons, Jerry Lynn (Cheryl) Warrington of Osage and Donald Edward (Rebecca) Warrington of Waverly; one daughter, Susan Kaye (Lynn) Spurbeck of Forest City; five step-children; four stepsons; Timothy (Debra) Warrington of Cincinnati, Ohio, Gerald Lee (Jennifer) Warrington of Lawrenceburg, Indiana, Kendall R. (Sarah) Warrington of West Harrison, Indiana and Len Warrington of Cincinnati, Ohio; one stepdaughter, Patricia (Perry) Vaught of Lawrenceburg, Indiana; one sister, Margaret Ebling of Mason City; three sisters-in-law, Francis Hundt of Charles City, Ona Maxwell of Charles City and Ida (Jack) Schloemer of Nashua; six grandchildren; 11 step-grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one step-great-grandchild.

Gerald was preceded by his parents; his first wife; two sisters, Marilyn Erbe and Jacquelyn in infancy; and three brothers, Cliff, Ken and Orville.

The Sunnyside Memory Gardens and Funeral Home, Charles City, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Adeline Dammen

January 21, 2004

Adeline Dammen, age 86, of Osage, died on Saturday, January 17, 2004, at the Osage Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Tuesday, January 20, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, with Rev. Wayne Ellingson officiating. Interment was in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Mitchell, Iowa.

Adeline was born on June 18, 1917, near St. Ansgar, Iowa, the daughter of Albert and Bertha (Bruggeman) Brandt. She was married on October 30, 1937, to Edwin Dammen in Osage. Adeline attended St. Ansgar Schools.

She was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church, Mitchell, Iowa and the Mitchell and Osage Senior Citizens.

Adeline is survived by her daughter, Carole (Darwin) Benson of Cedar Rapids; two sons, Larry (Andrea) Dammen and Kevin Dammen, both of Osage; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and one soon to be born; and one sister, Norma Wright of Osage.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Edwin Dammen in 1990; three sisters, Frances Brandt in her youth, Esther Gunsallus and Ardena Holm; and two brothers, Raymond Brandt and Roy Brandt; and three grandchildren.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Lionel W. Olson

January 28, 2004

Lionel W. Olson, 77, of Osage, died on Monday January 19, 2004, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 23, at the First United Methodist Church in Osage, with Rev. Jay Amundson officiating. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery, with Military Honors at the grave by the Osage American Legion Post 278.

Lionel was born on December 8, 1926 in Bonesteel, South Dakota, the son of Emil and Margaret (Hartsock) Olson. He attended school in Omaha, Nebraska. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He married Muriel Wright on August 26, 1950 in Osage. Lionel was employed by Western Electric, Inc. as a central office telephone equipment installer. While he was employed there, he also served as a union steward for the Communication Workers of America.

He was a member and past Commander of the Osage American Legion Post 278 and its Burial Honor Guard, a life member of the American Legion, a life member of the VFW, and a member of the Osage Masonic Lodge 102 A. F. & A.M. Lionel assisted with Boy Scout Troop 63 and received the Order of the Arrow from the Boy Scouts of America. He assisted with the Osage Precisionnaires Drum and Bugle Corp, working with the rifle and flag corp. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Lionel is survived by five sons, Douglas Olson and his wife, Linda of Waterloo, Richard Olson and his wife, Carol of Waterloo, Jeffrey Olson and his wife, Lory of Hutchinson, Minnesota, William Olson of Hutchinson, Minnesota and James Olson of Tampa, Florida; and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Barbara Wright in 2002; one sister, Margaret McFarland; and one brother, Ronald Olson.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

George H. Boerjan

January 28, 2004

George H. Boerjan, 94, of St. Ansgar, died on Tuesday, January 20, 2004, at the Good Samaritan Center, St. Ansgar.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 24, at the St. Ansgar Catholic Church, St. Ansgar, with the Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Burial was in the St. Ansgar Cemetery, St. Ansgar, Iowa.

George H. Boerjan, was born on January 1, 1910 in Plymouth, Iowa, to August and Mary (Baker) Boerjan. He married Mary Maertens in 1932, enjoying 66 years of marriage before her death in 1998. George enjoyed hunting and fishing, and took great pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He had lived in the nursing home since 1995.

George is survived by two daughters, Marilyn Stanton and her husband, Duane of New Hampton and Donna Chance and her husband, Robert of Colona, Illinois; five grandchildren, Monty Stanton, Cynthia Darrell Knecht, Jim Stanton, Chuck Stanton and Pam (Steve) Remark; great-grandchildren, Brooke and Seth Stanton, Amber and Logan Knecht, Rylie and Levi Stanton and Rebecca Riha; one great-great-grandson, Austin Merideth; one brother, John (Marie) Boerjan of St. Ansgar; and sister-in-law, Eleanor Boerjan of St. Ansgar.

George was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary; brothers, Frank, Ben and Henry; two sisters, Ida and Minnie; and one grandson, Michael Chance.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Merle Arthur Hanson

January 28, 2004

Merle Arthur Hanson, age 85, of Osage, died on Tuesday, January 20, 2004, at the Osage Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 24, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Dennis Hanson and Rev. Roy Ott officiating, with the flag presentation by the Osage American Legion Post 278. Interment was on Monday, January 26, in the Richland Cemetery, at Inwood, Iowa.  Memorials may be given to the Our Savior's Scholarship Fund, Bridges Mentoring Program, Our Savior's Youth Parish Education or the charity of the donor's choice.

Merle was born on September 22, 1918 at Inwood, Iowa, the son of Fred B. and Anna (Thorvaldsen) Hanson. They moved to Logan, Iowa in 1924, where Merle graduated in 1936. He then moved with his family to Granger, Iowa. He attended Iowa State University for three years. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in January of 1942. He received his training and commission at Fort Knox, Kentucky as a 2nd Lieutenant assigned to the 2nd Armored Division. Merle then served 34 months overseas in North Africa, Sicily and Central Europe. He was awarded six Battle Stars, two Bronze Stars, one Arrowhead for the Invasion of Sicily on D-Day. He was given the Belgium Fourragare and Presidential Unit Citations. He was also involved in the Invasion in France on "D-Day, Plus-3", and was given the French Liberty Normandy Medal. He was released from active duty in January of 1946. Merle then served in the Army Reserves for 25 years, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He recently received a Certificate of Liberation of France.

After the war, Merle attended South Dakota State College, where he received his degree in agriculture in 1947. He married Hazel Olson on August 30, 1947 at Inwood, Iowa. Merle worked at the Abbott Laboratories in North Chicago, Illinois for two years. They then moved to Osage where he farmed for 18 years. He worked at White Farm in Charles City as a Chemistry Lab Technician until his retirement in 1985.

Merle served on many boards and committees at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, including the Scholarship Committee for a number of years. He also taught Sunday School and was Sunday School Superintendent. He was active in Farm Bureau work, was a member of the Osage VFW, Osage American Legion and the Sons of Norway, where he held various offices. He followed many sports, receiving a plaque in 1978 for "Outstanding Moral and Spiritual Support" he had displayed towards athletes. Merle was an avid stamp collector since 1932. He loved gardening and the outdoors, including bird watching. He was an avid reader of world news and sports. He treasured his faith in Christ and his family.

Merle is survived by his wife, Hazel Hanson of Osage; three children, Carlene Hanson and son, Tyson of Clearfield, Utah, Kevin Hanson and his wife, Debra and son, Skyler of Arlington, Texas, Kerry Hanson and his wife, Julie and sons, Dane and Barrett of Mansfield, Texas; a brother, Virgil Hanson and his wife, Garnet of Houston, Texas; three nieces; and one nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Delmar Hanson.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Orland T. Rossum

January 28, 2004

Orland T. Rossum, 92, of Osage, died on Tuesday, January 20, 2004, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 24, at the First United Methodist Church in Osage, with Rev. Jay Amundson officiating. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery.

Orland was born on September 25, 1911, in Rock Township, Mitchell County, the son of Iver and Ida (Ask) Rossum. He received his education in a Rock Township rural school. On November 20, 1935, he married Ruth H. Spaanum at Osage. Orland farmed until his retirement in 1976, when he and his wife moved to Osage.

Feeding his cattle, fishing trips in northern Minnesota, and watching his granddaughters grow up were some of his greatest joys.

Orland is survived by his son, Vaughn Rossum and his wife, Carol of Osage; two granddaughters, Karen Stitt and her husband, David of Rogers, Arkansas and Diane Selvig and her husband, Mark of Eau Claire, Wisconsin; and two great-granddaughters, Josie and Lily Stitt.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Ruth Rossum in 1994.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Larry L. Valasek

February 11, 2004

Larry L. Valasek, 56, of Bondurant, died on Wednesday, January 21, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 27, at the Hamilton's Funeral Home, with burial in the Bondurant Cemetery.

Larry Valasek, was born on August 4, 1947 in Osage. He was a carpenter/supervisor and an outstanding member of the Carpenter's Local 106.

His survivors include two sons, Carl Valasek of Ankeny and Chad and Heather Valasek of Des Moines; grandson, Austin Valasek; mother, Norma Valasek of Altoona; brother, Steve (Rheta) Valasek of Whitehall, Montana; three sisters, Nancy (Dane) Valasek of Marathon Keys, Florida, Janet (Keith) Rupert of Wichita, Kansas and Carol (Tony) Vignaroli of Des Moines; and long-time friend, Shirley Sandoval of Elkhart.

He was preceded in death by his father, William L. Valasek; uncle, Frank Valasek; and his grandparents.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Wilma Dieterichs DeBerg

January 28, 2004

Wilma Dieterichs DeBerg, died on Sunday, January 25, 2004, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Saturday, January 31, at the St. John's Lutheran Church south of Osage. Reverend Christian F. Gugel will officiate. Inurnment will be in the Calvary Cemetery. Her body was cremated. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 5-7:00 p.m., on Friday, January 30, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.

Wilma was born on June 13, 1911 near Alburnette, Iowa, the daughter of Thomas and May (Boyer) Brewer, the family moved to Floyd County in 1919. She graduated from the Orchard High School and received her teacher certification from Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls, now known as UNI. Wilma was united in marriage to Theodore "Ted" Dieterichs on June 6, 1930. They farmed in the Osage area. Theodore died on January 20, 1960. Following Theodore's death Wilma served as a house mother for Alpha Kappa Lambda Fraternity at ISU in Ames for 10 years, after which she retired to Osage. On May 8, 1976, Wilma married Chris DeBerg at the St. John's Lutheran Church south of Osage. They lived in his home in Cedar Falls. Chris died in August 1983. Following his death Wilma returned to Osage. She has been a resident of the Faith Lutheran Home the last 14 years. Wilma was an active member of the St. John's Lutheran Church.

Her survivors include two daughters, Kathryn Shoger and her husband, Dale of Osage and their children, Linda Brandau and her husband, Ken of Rudd and their children, Nicole, Kimberly and Lucas; Donna Counsell and her husband, Bob of Osage and their children, Dustin and Darin, Marcia Rosendahl and her husband, Jim of Osage and their children, Megan, Lars and Haakon. Janet Hince of Scottsdale, Arizona and her children, Eric Hince, Deborah Hince and her daughter, Elyse Hince, Karl Hince, Lori Hiorns and her children, Kenneth and Daniel, Heidi Holt and her son, Richie. One son, William "Bill" Dieterichs and his wife, Janette "Jan" of Chesterfield, Missouri and their children, Angela Hull and her husband, Bob, Joel Dieterichs and his wife, Debbie and their son, Timothy.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Theodore "Ted" Dieterichs and 2nd husband, Chris DeBerg; a brother, Merlin Brewer; nephew, Rick Brewer; and great-grandson, Daniel Counsell.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

LaVerne R. Michaels

February 4, 2004

LaVerne R. Michaels, 80, of St. Ansgar, died on Sunday, January 25, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 28, at the First Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, with Rev. Robert Porisch officiating. Burial was in the First Lutheran Cemetery, St. Ansgar, Iowa. Military honors were by the Walter T. Enneberg Post No.358 of the American Legion of St. Ansgar.

LaVerne R. "Mike" Michaels, was born on October 9, 1923 in Worth County, the son of Benjamin and Isabel (Halverson) Michaels. Following the death of his mother when he was five, he lived and was raised by his foster parents who were his aunt and uncle, Sever and Lizzie Halverson. He was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran. He graduated from the St. Ansgar High School in 1941. On January 16, 1943, he entered the military service and proudly served his country in WW II as a medic, serving in the European Theater of Operation. He participated in the Normandy Invasion and the Battle of the Bulge, for which he received 2 Bronze Stars as well as the Good Conduct Medal. In June of 1997 he received a gold medal from the French government for his participation in the Liberation.

Following his honorable discharge on November 8, 1945, he enrolled and graduated from Hamilton College. He was employed in the office of The REA in St. Ansgar as head bookkeeper and office manager for 7 years. He married Verva Chehock on October 22, 1947, at the United Methodist Church in Plymouth, and they made their home in St. Ansgar. In February 1954, he became employed by the St. Ansgar State Bank and continued there for 35 years, retiring in 1989 as senior vice president.

He was a life-long member of First Lutheran Church, taught Sunday School, was Sunday School Superintendent and Chairman of the congregation. His service to the community included treasurer of Boy Scouts, secretary of St. Ansgar Athletics, secretary of St. Ansgar School Board, secretary-treasurer of Advisory Board of Good Samaritan Center, nine years on library board and served as president, 10 years on city council, six years as mayor. He was a 57 year member of the American Legion, was Post Commander and served on the firing squad and honor guard. In his leisure time he enjoyed golf, bowling and watching sports.

He is survived by his wife, Verva of St. Ansgar; one daughter, Suzanne (Dean) Shoars of Waverly; two sons, Steven (Mary Jane) Michaels of St. Ansgar and Mark Michaels of St. Ansgar; five grandchildren, Jason (Jennifer) Shoars of Asherville, North Carolina, Ryan Shoars of Clearwater, Florida, Brendan Shoars of Lubbock, Texas, Lindsey and Laura Michaels of Iowa City; one great-grandson, Jackson Shoars of Asherville, North Carolina; and a foster brother, Gerald (Mary Ann) Halverson of St. Ansgar.

He was preceded in death by his mother; foster parents; and siblings, Gladys Nelson, Stanford Halverson and Dorothy Stoll.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Esther Noretta Graves

February 11, 2004

Esther Graves, age 93, of Alta Loma, California, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2004, at the San Antonio Hospital in Upland, California.

Funeral services were held on Saturday January 31, at the Grace Lutheran Church in Covina, California. Pastor Eric Young officiated. She was laid to rest in the Oakdale Cemetery in Glendora, California, along side of her husband, Charles "Chuck".

She was born on March 10, 1910, in rural Decorah, Iowa. She attended schools in the Decorah area, completing her sophomore year and then transferred to Waverly Nursing School. She married Charles Henry Graves "Chuck" of Mitchell, Iowa, in November 1930. Esther and Chuck were blessed with three children, Merlin, Dean and Larry. Chuck was a former mayor of Mitchell, Iowa. Chuck sold the garage in Mitchell in 1955 and they moved to Covina, California. They worked for the same company, an aluminum factory in Covina, he was a Forman and she worked as a stockroom clerk. Chuck passed away in 1968. In 1973, Esther moved to Diamond Bar, California. Esther retired from Johnston Pump in Glendora in 1975. She moved to Spokane, Washington in 1999. December 2, 2003 she moved back to California, with her son, Merlin due to failing health.

Esther is survived by sons, Merlin of Alta Loma, California, Dean of West Covina, California and Larry of Spokane, Washington; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Her husband; parents; three brothers; and five sisters; precede her in death. She said she was the last of the Mohicans.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Honore Casey

February 4, 2004

Honore Casey, age 92, of Chardon, Ohio and formerly of Osage, died on Wednesday, January 28, 2004, at the Heather Hill Health Care Center in Chardon.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, April 17, 2004, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage. Inurnment will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. A time of sharing and remembrance, with lunch for family and friends will follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Osage.

Mary Honore Casey, was born on March 26, 1911 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the daughter of George and Laura (Boyle) McLees. She graduated from the St. Patrick's High School in Cedar Rapids and Clarke College in Dubuque, Iowa. with a Bachelor of Science Degree. Honore served a year of dietician internship at the Cincinnati General Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a member of the American Dietician's Association. In 1937, Honore was united in marriage to Joseph B. Casey at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids. They lived in many different areas of the country, as Mr. Casey was a member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In 1946, they returned to Osage where Mr. Casey started his law firm. Joseph B. Casey died in 1995.

Honore was an active member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Lady of Good Counsel Study Club, Girl Scouts and many other community groups and activities. She enjoyed gardening, reading and traditional rug hooking.

Honore is survived by a son, James Michael Casey of Phoenix, Arizona; two daughters, Eileen Stout of Chadron, Ohio and JoAnn Johanns of Omaha, Nebraska; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Joseph; one brother; and one sister.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Darlene Rae (Fox) Foth

February 4, 2004

Darlene Rae (Fox) Foth, age 78, of Osage, died on Thursday, January 29, 2004, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 31, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage, with Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Interment was in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Osage.

Darlene was born on November 6, 1925 at Riceville, the daughter of Chauncy and Adeline (Shea) Fox. Darlene graduated from the Riceville High School in 1943. She attended the Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Cedar Rapids and graduated as a RN from a three year nursing program. Darlene moved to Osage and worked at the Nissen Hospital. On Thanksgiving day, November 27, 1947, Darlene was united in marriage to Thomas W. Foth, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage. She worked at the University of Iowa Hospitals while Thomas was a student at the University of Iowa. When they returned to Osage she worked at the Mitchell County Memorial Hospital as an obstetrics and operating room nurse. Later Darlene was employed as a school nurse at the Osage Community Schools.

Darlene enjoyed her children and grandchildren. She had a passion for reading and writing. Her favorite Irish comment was "By-De-God".

Darlene will be greatly missed by her family and her husband of 56 years, Thomas Foth of Osage; nine children, Christine Ann Betts and husband, Ron of Osage, Russell Thomas Foth and wife, Julie of Cedar Falls, Marjorie Mary Markham and husband, Richard of Osage, Michael Patrick Foth and wife, Lisa of Hawaii, Frederick Paul Foth of Osage, Lawrence James Foth and wife, Julie of Osage, Virginia Margaret Thompson and husband, Dennis of Osage, Jane LaVern Foth of Osage and Anthony Joseph Foth of Minneapolis; 23 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one sister, Helen Lynch of Coralville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Donald Fox; and one sister, Mary Victorine.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Rueben Wittenburg

February 4, 2004

Rueben Wittenburg, age 75, of Osage, died on Thursday, January 29, 2004, at the MCRHC-Hospital in Osage.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 2, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage. The Reverend Dennis Hanson and Reverend Roy Ott officiated. Interment was in the Osage Cemetery, with Military Honors by the Osage American Legion Post 278.

Rueben Wittenburg, was born on August 9, 1928, in Maxfield Township, near Readlyn, Iowa, the son of August and Martha (Ruehs) Wittenburg. He attended the Klinger Parochial School and graduated from the Readlyn High School. After graduation he continued to work at Vic's Food Market in Readlyn. He was then drafted into the Army in November of 1950 and fought in the Korean War. He was discharged in August of 1952. Rueben married Lois Whitnabel on August 16, 1953 at Sumner, Iowa. After marriage, he attended Barber College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Rueben and Lois moved to Osage in November of 1959, where he owned and operated the Wittenburg Barber Shop until his death.

Rueben enjoyed his fishing trips to Canada, gardening and helping his kids with their various repairs and remodeling projects. He was a member of the Osage American Legion Post 278 and the Osage VFW Post 7920. He was also a member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Wittenburg of Osage; two children, Clark Wittenburg and his wife, Mary of Osage and Stefanie Gatica and her husband, Armando and their sons, Jayden and Devin and daughter, Haley of Ankeny, Iowa; and a sister-in-law, Marie Wittenburg of Fairbank, Iowa.

Rueben was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Raymond Wittenburg; and two sisters, Lucinda Happel and Berdine (Buhr) Watts.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press

Gerald "Jerry" Sherwood Schotanus

February 4, 2004

Gerald "Jerry" Sherwood Schotanus, 76, of St. Ansgar, died on Friday, January 30, 2004, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center, Osage, Iowa, after battling cancer for 8 months.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 2, at 1:30 p.m., at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, St. Ansgar, with Rev. Byron Northwick officiating. Burial was in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.

Gerald (Jerry) Sherwood Schotanus, was born on January 3, 1928 in Iowa Falls, Iowa, the son of Jacob and Sietske (Streenstra) Schotanus. Jerry attended rural school near Mason City, the Spring Valley Country School near St. Ansgar and the St. Ansgar High School and graduated from the Grafton High School in 1946. Jerry was united in marriage to Marilyn Hoeft on January 11, 1953 in Ventura. After serving in the army during the Korean War, they lived and farmed both grain and livestock in the St. Ansgar-Carpenter area until his death. He also drove truck part-time for Ruan for several years.

Jerry was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, where he served as trustee for 20 years, held numerous offices in the LLL Men's Club and Friendship Club. He also was active in the Carpenter Community Club, was on the school board in both the Carpenter and St. Ansgar School Districts. He served as secretary-treasurer of the Lions Club for many years and in 2003 received the Melvin Jones Fellowship for his dedicated humanitarian services. Jerry and Marilyn were host parents for four students in the International Foreign Exchange Student program.

Jerry enjoyed being outdoors and caring for his livestock and pets. He also enjoyed dancing with Marilyn at the Surf ballroom and the Carpenter Community Club (where he was known as the popcorn man). They traveled to Europe several times and enjoyed visiting with Jerry's cousins in the Netherlands and their foreign exchange student families throughout Europe. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially taking them to the Minnesota Twins ball games, playing cribbage, checkers and Go Fish. Attending school activities for his children and grandchildren was an important part of his life.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 51 years, Marilyn; daughters, Sheila Schaefer and husband, Harlan of Ellsworth and Sheryl Haer and husband, Johnny of Craig, Michigan; son, Gary Schotanus and wife, Linda of Grafton; Kornel Romand who joined our family from Slovakia in 1994 and his wife, Jennifer of Fort Worth, Texas; seven grandchildren, Jacob and Jason Schaefer, Luke Aaron and Jill Haer and Nicole and Kyle Schotanus; one sister, Laura Helm of Plymouth; two brothers, Clyde of St. Ansgar and Jack of Grafton; also numerous nieces and nephews as well as other relatives, including cousins in the Netherlands and friends.

Extended family members include Berend Pastoor, Janneke and Arjan of the Netherlands; Peter Osce and Valerie of Belgium; and Juia Ganieva of Uzbakistan.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2004 Mitchell County Press