Frank J. Stephens

January 5, 2005

Frank J. Stephens, age 88, of Clinton, died on Saturday, January 1, 2005, at the Harmony House in Clinton.

According to family wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A gathering of friends and family was held on Tuesday, January 4, at the Pape Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at a later date, with burial in the Osage Cemetery in Osage, Iowa.

Frank was born on July 26, 1916, in rural Howard County, Iowa, the son of John and Mildred (Rafferty) Stephens. He graduated from the McIntire High School in McIntire, Iowa, where he was valedictorian of his class. He married Doris Evenson on April 26, 1942 in Osage, Iowa. Frank farmed in Mitchell County, Iowa, for several years before working for Standard Oil in Northwood, Iowa. In 1954, he moved to Clinton, Iowa, where he owned and operated Stephens Skelgas Appliance. He later worked for Kendrick Pest Control in Clinton. After his retirement, he delivered meals for Clinton Mobile Meals.

He was a member of the First Congregational Church and very active with the Clinton Lions Club.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Doris Stephens of Clinton; a brother, Willis (Ione) Stephens of Fairfax, Virginia; a nephew, James Stephens of Fairfax, Virginia; two nieces, Suzanne Stephens of Kurten, Germany and Jayne Obst of Wirmar, Germany; half-sister, Golda Brooks of Yuma, Arizona; two half-brothers, John Stephens of Marshfield, Wisconsin and George Stephens of Wichita, Kansas.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother.

The Pape Funeral Home, Inc., Clinton, Iowa, had charge of  the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Thomas E. White

January 5, 2005

Thomas Edward White, age 87, of McIntire, passed away at his residence in McIntire, Iowa, on Saturday, January 1, 2005.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 4, at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Riceville, Iowa. Rev. Gary Gilbert officiated. Burial was in the Wayne Cemetery in McIntire, Iowa.

Thomas White, was born on September 15, 1917 in Weldon, Iowa, the son of Thomas E. and Emma Jones White. He attended local schools. He was united in marriage to Carolyn Schlampp on November 11, 1957 in Austin, Minnesota. Thomas worked for John Deere and later for Rath Packing in Waterloo until his retirement. Upon his retirement, he and his wife moved to McIntire, Iowa in 1968.

Tom always had a large vegetable garden, enjoyed spending time with family, especially with his sons and grandchildren and visiting with neighbors and friends.

His survivors include his wife, Carolyn of McIntire; two sons, Chuck and his wife, Karolyn of Osage and William "Doc" White of McIntire; grandson, Russell Duryee and his special friend, Jen Olson of Marion, Iowa and Jason White of Barron, Wisconsin; two step-grandsons, Jeremy Hovde and his wife, Kristy of Osage and their children, Jacy and Lexy and Jordan Huisman of Osage; two sisters, Margaret Patterson and Hazel Siefkas of Osceola, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters; one brother; and his parents-in-law, Cleone and Roy Schlampp.

The Lindstrom Funeral Home, Riceville, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Catherine Joens

January 5, 2005

Catherine Joens, 91, of Riceville, passed away on Monday, January 3, 2005, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center-Hospital in Osage.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, January 7, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Riceville, with Father Ray E. Atwood officiating. Burial will be in  the Westview Cemetery in La Porte City. Friends may call at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Riceville, on Thursday, from 4-6:00 p.m.

Catherine Joens, was born on May 6, 1913 near Holland, Iowa, the first daughter of Theodore and Wilhelmina (Klein) Bottema. She graduated from 8th grade in country school, then helped her parents around the home and farm. She "mothered" her younger siblings after their parents died in 1932 and 1933. She married Walter Joens in La Porte City in 1939. They farmed near La Porte City for 20 years, then near Chester for 36 years.

Catherine was active in the St. Stephan's Church, Kitchen Kut-Ups Band and TOPS, in Chester. Since 1995, she has resided in Riceville.

She is survived by three sons and their wives, David (Nancy) of Minnetonka, Minnesota, Bill (Jeannette) of Colorado and Bob (Dianne) of Riceville; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; three sisters, Johanna Leaman of Waterloo, Elizabeth Raymond and Mary Kruckenberg of La Porte City; and sisters-in-law, Leona (Bill) Bottema, Agenes (Rinard) Bottema, both of La Porte City and Sophia (Henry) Bottema of Dysart.

Catherine was preceded in death by her husband, Walter in 1979; brothers, Rinard Bottema as an infant, John and wife, Dorothy Bottema of Waterloo, Henry Bottema of Dysart, Bill Bottema and Rinard Bottema (adult) of La Porte City; and sister, Angelina Stoner of California.

The Lindstrom Funeral Home, Riceville, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Bernard G. Vote

January 12, 2005

Bernard G. "Slim" Vote, 75, of Riceville, died on Monday evening, January 3, 2005, at the Howard County Hospital in Cresco, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 8, at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Riceville, Iowa. Reverend Michael Carey and Reverend Herschel Hawf officiated. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery in Riceville.

Bernard Gene Vote, fondly known as "Slim" was born on July 21, 1929 in Pocahontas, Iowa, to Clarence Guy and Evelyn Edith Erickson Vote. Bernard was the oldest of six children. As a young man he went west to California and lived in the Oakland area. Bernard married Mary Ann Betts on May 28, 1966, at the Little Brown Church in the Vale in Nashua, Iowa.

The couple enjoyed dancing and attending social gatherings in their earlier years. Many will remember Bernard as a "Railroad Man." He began his rail career with the Chicago Great Western Railroad and retired from the Chicago Northwestern Transportation Company in 1985. All who have shared his life will miss Bernard dearly.

His survivors include his wife of 36 years, Mary Ann; his sister and brother-in-law, Anna Marie and John Padget of Waterloo, Iowa; his brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Mary Lou Vote of Riceville, Iowa; his sisters-in-law, Louise Vote of Omaha, Nebraska, Margaret Vote and Arlys Vote of Riceville; 17 nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his brothers, Clarence Jr., Bruce and Merlin; his mother-in-law, Nellie Betts and father-in-law, Stoddard "Stub" Betts.

The Lindstrom Funeral Home, Riceville, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Marshall "Marsh" Lee Hogan

January 12, 2005

Marshall "Marsh" Lee Hogan, age 74, of Osage, died on Wednesday, January 5, 2005, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, January 8, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, with Rev. Dr. J. Samuel Subramanian officiating. Burial was in the Osage Cemetery, with Military Honors at the grave by the Osage American Legion Post 278 and the Osage VFW Post 7920.

Marsh was born on June 11, 1930 in Osage, the son of Burton and Helen (Lee) Hogan. He attended school in Osage and joined the US Navy, serving in the Korean War on the USS Manchester. He was employed at L. R. Falk Construction, retiring in 1992.

Marsh loved to hunt, fish, camp and to listen to old time music.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Hogan of Osage; three daughters, Julie Hecker, Debby Thorne and Teena Hogan; a son, Dan Hogan and nine grandchildren, all living in Wisconsin; one brother, Burton Hogan of Osage; a sister, Madeline Huset of Lincoln, Illinois; one brother-in-law, James Griswold of Osage; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Marsh was preceded in death by his parents; and two nephews, Scott Olson and Mike Huset.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Kathryn Margaret Nath

January 12, 2005

Kathryn Margaret Nath, 91, passed away on Thursday, January 6, 2005, at the Wildwood Grove in LeRoy, Minnesota.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 11, at the St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Riceville, Iowa. Reverend Michael Parris officiated. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery in Riceville, Iowa.

Kathryn Nath, was born on March 10, 1913, the daughter of George Henry and Christina Mussman Kempf in Monroe Township, near Dysart. As a young girl, she moved with her parents to her grandparents farm east of Riceville. She attended country school until attending high school in Riceville. She graduated in 1930 from the Riceville High School. In 1932, Kathryn married Walter Nath at the Little Brown Church. She met her future husband at a dance. Dancing was something they enjoyed very much the rest of their life together. Kathryn and Walt celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary with all their family in 1987, two years before Walter passed away in 1989.

She was a homemaker and a Gold Star Mother. Their first home was in Cresco, where Walt worked for the Howard County road maintenance department. Kathryn would say that during those years she would wish for snow so Walt would have work. During their time in Cresco, two sons were born, Ray and Richard. In 1940, the family moved to her parents farm where she continued to be a wife, mother and homemaker. She enjoyed making a beautiful home for her family and tending her vegetable and flower gardens.

Kathryn was an active member of the Riceville Flowerette Club. While on the farm another son, David was born. Walt and Kathryn were members of the St. Peter's Lutheran Church, where Kathryn was an active member of the Ladies Aid. Kathryn loved to socialize with her friends and neighbors, playing cards and taking yearly trips to California. When they retired from farming in 1977, Kathryn and Walt moved to Riceville. During their later years on the farm and their early years in town Kathryn was active in her husband's Funks Seed Corn dealership. She kept the books and helped to organize deliveries and special events. The greatest joy in Kathryn's life was her family, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Walter in 1989; a son, Ray in 1955; and a daughter-in-law, Ardyth in 2000.

Her survivors are her sons, Richard Nath and his wife, Myrna of Riceville and David Nath and his wife, Lynda of Anaheim, California; daughter-in-law, Delores Ross of San Diego, California; seven grandchildren, Brian, Doug and his wife, Trudy, Dana, Debbie Wright, Chris and wife, Lori, Ryan and Jeff; and five great-grandchildren, Eric, Jill, Patrick, Ben Wright and Laura Wright.

The Lindstrom Funeral Home, Riceville, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Glen Krogstad

January 19, 2005

Glen Krogstad, age 83, of Osage, died on Saturday, January 15, 2005, at the Good Samaritan Center in St. Ansgar.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, January 19, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Dennis Hanson and Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Burial was in the Osage Cemetery, with Military Honors at the grave by the Osage American Legion Post 278.

Glen was born on June 23, 1921, at his parent's home west of Osage, in Rock Township. He was the son of Oscar and Laura (Staff) Krogstad. Glen attended the Rock No. 1 Country School through 8th grade and graduated from the Osage High School in 1939. Following high school graduation, Glen worked at Oliver in Charles City as a machinist and was also employed as a Stanley engineer for the REA staking poles. In 1942, Glen joined the US Army Air Corps. Most of Glen's four years of active duty was working as a crew chief on B-24's at Colorado Springs AFB. On July 19, 1947, Glen married his wife of 57 years, Dorothy Mauser at the Methodist Church in Osage. To this union, four daughters were born, Janet, Jane, Jean and Janan.

They lived in the Charles City area, where Glen was a Ruan truck driver and drove a rural milk route for the Charles City Creamery. He was employed as a carpenter for Triad Construction and as a bookkeeper and partsman for the Buick garage in Charles City. They started farming in the Marble Rock area, later moving to the Osage area, farming until their retirement. He was also employed as a field man for the Production Credit Association in the Charles City area.

Glen served as a board member for the REC for 15 years and for the Osage Co-op Oil for 8 years. He also served on the boards of the Faith Lutheran Home, FS, and on several boards at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, all in Osage. He was a life long member of the Farm Bureau and the American Legion. Glen enjoyed playing cards, golfing and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Glen and Dorothy enjoyed the times that they spent wintering in Texas.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Krogstad of Osage; four daughters, Janet (Frank) Philipp of Janesville, Wisconsin, Jane (David) Rowe of Osage, Jean Powers of Davenport and Janan (Joe) Canacari of Clinton, Utah; one sister, Sylvia (Carl) Duenow of Osage; four grandchildren, Michael Philipp and his fiancée, Erin Wolfe, Joseph Rowe and his wife, Pamela, Laura Philipp and Matthew Powers.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Orin, Lloyd, Galen and Russell; four sisters, Alice Witt, Lorna Krogstad, Bernice Anderson and Gladys Krogstad; son-in-law; Mark Powers; and two infant grandsons, Jon Rowe and Ian Powers.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Dean Earl Shoars

January 19, 2005

Dean Earl Shoars, age 84, of Osage, died on Saturday, January 15, 2005, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

A gathering of family and friends was held on Monday, January 17, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage. Inurnment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be given in Dean's name to the Mitchell County Memorial Foundation, Osage, Iowa, with designation to the Mitchell County Regional Health Center Hospital Hospice, the Campaign for the St. Ansgar Health Center or to Mitchell County Home Health Care.

Dean was born on February 9, 1920 in Osage, Iowa. How can mere words express the true measure of a man? Dean Earl Shoars is best measured by what he was. His eyes saw good in others, his words encouraged good in others, his hands did good for others, his heart was good as gold. No man ever loved, gave, or sacrificed more for his wife and family. He was a man who was generous to a fault, never turned his back on those in need and was the source of strength in uncertain times. He provided an example of what kind of person we all aspire to be. He was our role model, our mentor, and our guiding light. We love you and miss you. We will always carry you in our hearts. Our lives will be a tribute and testimony to others to all you taught us. He leaves this world a better place. We, his family and friends, are better people for having known him. "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share in your master's happiness'!" - Matthew 25:21

He is survived by his wife, Helen; six children, Meri, Dean, Mark, Scott (Tim), Ruth and Eric; 12 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and Larry Newhouse.

He was preceded in death by his son, Smith.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Alvina E. Theobald

January 19, 2005

Alvina E. Theobald, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2005, at the Stacyville Community Nursing Home, at the age of 83.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 18, at the Visitation Catholic Church, Stacyville, with Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Burial was in the Visitation Cemetery, Stacyville, Iowa.

Alvina, daughter of William and Julia Schrandt, was born on November 19, 1921 in Stacyville, Iowa. After graduating from the Visitation High School, Alvina worked at Hormel until her marriage to Clem Theobald of Meyer, Iowa in 1942. From their marriage until 1984, they operated the Theobald family farm. They then retired to their home in Stacyville.

Alvina was an avid gardener, quilter and bird watcher. She also had a strong love for reading and word puzzles. Alvina, an active church member, served many years with the Christian Mothers. She also enjoyed her quilting interests with the Thread Clippers. She always appreciated the strong friendships she developed through these activities.

Alvina is survived by her husband of 62 years, Clem; her seven children, Ron (Valerie) Theobald of Burke, Virginia, Sue (Verlyn) Mullenbach of Stacyville, Mike Theobald of Oskaloosa, Linda (Rob) Reding of Houston, Texas, Jane (Denton) Voss of Leawood, Kansas, Ed (Brenda) Theobald of Stacyville and Tom (Darla) Theobald of Mankato; one sister, Rose Klapperich of Stacyville; one brother, Bob Schrandt of White Rock, New Mexico; 18 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; five brothers, Larry, Leander, Pete, Mike and Fritz; and sisters, Connie, Minnie and Mary.

The Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, was in charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Almond "Al" P. Hohn

January 26, 2005

Almond "Al" P. Hohn, 85, died on Tuesday, January 18, 2005, at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center, Osage.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 22, at 10:30 a.m., at the St. Ansgar Catholic Church, St. Ansgar, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Reasoner officiating. Burial was in the St. Ansgar Cemetery, St. Ansgar.

Al was born on July 16, 1919 in Dimock, South Dakota, the son of Andrew and Mary (Bowar) Hohn. He was married to Rita Roth for over 60 years. Al farmed and later drove truck for various employers.

Al was a people person, doing things for others before things for himself. He was a hard worker in providing for his family. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. Al dearly loved his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Rita of St. Ansgar; daughters, Mary Bzoskie and husband, Bob of Kasson, Minnesota, Elaine Warner of Byron, Minnesota and Marlene Lippitt and husband, Dennie of Big Lake, Minnesota; sons, Gerald Hohn and wife, Sue of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota and Dennis Hohn and wife, Dawn of Ankeny, Iowa; 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one brother, Victor Hohn of Woonsocket, South Dakota; and many nieces and nephews.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, Iowa.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Cecelia Braheny

February 23, 2005

Cecelia A. Braheny, 90, of West Dundee and a former many-year resident of Elgin, died on Wednesday, January 19, 2005, at the Sherman West Court in Elgin.

A Memorial Mass was held on Saturday, February 19, in the St. Catherine of Siena Church, West Dundee. There will be a private burial service in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Osage.

Cecilia was born in New Albin, Iowa, on November 27, 1914, the daughter of Leo and Nellie (nee Luth) Colsch and was a resident of the Dundee-Elgin areas for more than 32 years. She was a member of the St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in West Dundee and was a graduate of the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Mason City, Iowa. Following graduation she was the supervisor/instructor of Pharmacy at the Mercy Hospital in Fort Dodge, Iowa. After caring for her children for 20 years she resumed her nursing career and also enrolled at the Elgin Community College in 1958. She was an American Red Cross Nurse and a member of the American Iowa and Illinois Nursing Associations until her retirement in 1983. After her husband’s retirement they returned to Osage, Iowa for eight years and returned to the Dundee area in 1987. Pediatrics was her favorite choice of nursing and she was employed at Herrick House in Bartlett for many years.

During her 21 years in Elgin she was an active member in many community organizations including charter member, elected officer and board member of The Catholic Daughters, The United Way (where she received a citation for community action), FISH, St. Mary Catholic Church of Elgin Parish Council and St. Mary’s Women’s Club. She was a Pro-Life representative in Kane County, a member of the League of Women voters and a Cub Scout and Girl Scout Leader for 12 years. She was a member of the Fox Hill Home, Batavia, Elgin Senior Center and Elizabeth Kubler-Ross program direct care volunteer for the North Iowa Hospice and the Fox Valley Hospice for 12 years. Cecelia was a member of the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois, where she requested her body be given for medical research. Her son John said, “Mom was committed to medical research and felt that much could be learned from her medical history. It was her final unselfish act in a lifetime of unselfish acts and she wanted to model this last gesture for others.”

Her survivors include her children, John (JoAnn) Braheny of Van Nuys, California, Mary Braheny of Redondo Beach, California and Kevin Braheny of Nevada City, California; her daughter-in-law, Charlotte Koteles Braheny of Elgin; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; her brother, Peter Colsch; her sisters, Mary Mackin, R.N. and Ellen Anderson, R.N.; 14 godchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Cecelia was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, William Barry Braheny on May 19, 1993 whom she married on September 20, 1937; her son, Danny in 1997; her granddaughter, Catherine Braheny Rahn in 1994; and her brothers, John and Alfred Colsch.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Miller Funeral Home, West Dundee, Illinois.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Leonard Nordyke

February 2, 2005

Leonard "Dugan" Nordyke, 69, of Eldora, died at the Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, on Saturday, January 22, 2005, from complications following surgery.

Funeral services were held in Eldora on Tuesday, January 25, 2005.

Dugan was born on June 3, 1935 at McIntire, to Jesse and Marie Nordyke. He attended school in Osage and later moved to Eldora. He was employed at the Prairie Land Co-op at Union for 30 years. He retired in 1997. In his retirement he worked for the Coop during the harvest season. He also was a handyman and woodworker. He married Hazel Blandau on June 20, 1969 in Elk Point, South Dakota. They enjoyed their winters in Texas for several years.

His survivors include his wife, Hazel; four daughters, Beverly Nordyke of Boone, Regina (Lynn) Allbee of Iowa Falls, Vickie (Don) Paul of Eldora and Jill (Ray) Johnson of Pasadena, Texas; a son, Mike (Connie) Blandau of Eldora; 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; three sisters, Neva Whitmore (Chuck Moore) of Osage, Zola (Reuben) Borchardt of Plymouth and Darla Barrett of Peoria, Illinois; a sister-in-law, Rosemary Nordyke of Des Moines; and several nieces, nephews and many friends.

Dugan was preceded in death by his parents; a son Leonard Scott; two grandchildren; and three brothers, Mervin, Donald and an infant.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Lucile Gunsallus

January 26, 2005

Lucile Lillian Gunsallus, age 83, of Osage, died on Sunday, January 23, 2005, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, January 27, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Dennis Hanson and Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Burial will be in the First Lutheran Cemetery in St. Ansgar. Visitation is from 5-8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage and will continue one hour before the services at the church.

Lucile Gunsallus, was born on June 24, 1921 in Little Cedar, Iowa, the daughter of Harvey F. and Lillian R. (Gunderson) Warrington. She graduated from the Osage High School in 1938 and also attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. She taught at several rural schools throughout northern Iowa and also worked during the summers at Yellowstone National Park. On September 18, 1949, Lucile married Robert E. Gunsallus at the Osage Lutheran Church.

A devoted wife, a loving mother, a loyal friend and a devout Christian, throughout her life she made many personal sacrifices for the betterment of those around her. Her caring and sharing ways were greatly appreciated and will be genuinely missed. Lucile was a member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church, where she belonged to the Aid Society, the Rebekah Circle and was a lifetime choir member. She was also a member of the VFW Auxiliary, the Birthday Club and the Cedar Valley Retired School Personnel.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Gunsallus of Osage; five children, Marsha Schultz of Lapeer, Michigan, Rogene Gordon of Stacyville, Holly (John) Van Heel of Apple Valley, Minnesota, Kendall Gunsallus of St. Paul, Minnesota and Beth (Russell) Rightmire of Willis, Texas; six granddaughters, Jamie Gordon, Margaret and Katie Van Heel, Courtney Sedorchuk, Taylor Rightmire and Bobbi Marie Gunsallus; one brother, Harold (Bonnie) Warrington of Osage; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lucile was preceded in death by her parents; her step-mother; and an infant son, Curtis.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Elsie I. Decklever

January 26, 2005

Elsie I. Decklever, age 93, of Osage, died on Monday, January 24, 2005, at the Faith Lutheran Home in Osage.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, January 27, at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Osage, with Rev. Dennis Hanson and Rev. Roy Ott officiating. Burial will be in the Osage Cemetery. Visitation is from 5-7:30 p.m., on Wednesday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage and will continue one hour before the services at the church.

Elsie was born on June 29, 1911, on the family farm near Toeterville, Iowa, the daughter of Otto and Mathilda (Groth) Tesch. Elsie was educated in the country school at Toeterville. She was united in marriage to Lawrence Decklever on June 5, 1932 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They lived in the Osage area their entire married life, where they owned and operated Decklever Ready Mix until their retirement.

They enjoyed wintering in Texas. One of the highlights of their retirement was when they drove their motor home to Alaska and back. Lawrence died on March 30, 1982. Elsie was a member of the Our Savior's Lutheran Church, where she was a member of the Miriam Circle. She was also a member of the Neighborhood Birthday Club and the Grandmother's Club. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, crocheting, quilting and being with her family. Elsie will always be remembered for the example that she set for her family and the influence that she had on her children and grandchildren and as a result of that influence, the respect that they all had for her.

Elsie is survived by four sons, LaVern (Rita) Decklever of Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, Wayne (Regina) Decklever of Surprise, Arizona, Richard (Neva) Decklever of Indianola and Larry (Marge) Decklever of Lakeville, Minnesota; one daughter, Marian Decklever of St. Petersburg, Florida; two brothers, Otto H. Tesch and Rudolph (Arlene) Tesch, both of St. Ansgar; and a sister, Mathilda Olson of Horse Shoe Bend, Arkansas; grandchildren, Carol Decklever of Rochester, Minnesota, Robert (Tracy) Decklever of Byron, Minnesota, Wayne "Mike" (Rose) Decklever of Byron, Minnesota, David (Lori) Decklever of Lakeville, Minnesota, Derek (Mary) Decklever of Prior Lake, Minnesota, Timothy (Molly) Decklever of Richfield, Minnesota, Dennis Decklever of Milton, Florida, Debrah Coury of Panama City, Florida and Aleen Perry of Forest City; and 18 great-grandchildren.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Lawrence Decklever; brothers, Alvin Tesch and infant twins, Willmar and Johannas Tesch; sisters, Mrs. Matie Torney, Mrs. Agnes Decklever, Mrs. Elizabeth Rohne, Mrs. Margaret Murphy; a granddaughter, Diane Decklever; and a great-grandson, Jason Peterson.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Milton C. Kirwin

February 2, 2005

Milton C. Kirwin, died on Monday, January 24, 2005, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

There will be no funeral services. A graveside service will be held in the Osage Cemetery in Osage, Iowa, on Saturday, May 7, at 11:00 a.m. No flowers please.

He was born on February 27, 1936 in Winona, Minnesota. Milton married his wife, Kay on June 20, 1959. He worked at the Central Computer Operations for the University of Minnesota for more than 40 years.

Milton is survived by his wife, Kay of Minneapolis; two sisters, Shirley Bolce and Alice Woody of Iowa; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Washburn-McReavy Davies Chapel, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Adelaide Larson

February 2, 2005

Adelaide Leonora Wamstad Larson, age 87, of Nora Springs, died on Tuesday, January 25, 2005, at the Nora Springs Care Center.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 28, at the Rock Creek Lutheran Church, Osage, with Rev. R. Dawson Tornes officiating. Burial was in the Rock Creek Cemetery.

Adelaide Leonora Wamstad Larson, was born on January 5, 1918, to Milton and Mina (Field) Wamstad in Mitchell County, Iowa. She attended rural schools in Mitchell County, Nora Springs High School, Waldorf College and the University of Northern Iowa. She was a lifelong member of the Rock Creek Lutheran Church, where she was baptized, confirmed and married. Adelaide was a teacher in the Rake and Nora Springs-Rock Falls Schools. She was married to Vernon C. Larson on June 10, 1939. This union was blessed with seven children.

Her hobbies were sewing, crafts, hardanger and cross stitch embroidery.

Adelaide is survived by two sons, Dennis Larson and wife, Cheryl of Tucson, Arizona and Joel Larson and wife, Jeannine of Nora Springs; three daughters, Carole Sours and husband, Roy of Panora, Ellen White and husband, Stuart of Garland, Texas and Susan Larson of St. Charles, Illinois; eight grandchildren, Scott Larson, Kristine Litten, Steven Larson and Kathryn Larson, Julie Bosch and Jody Sours, Jared White and Mark White; and eight great-grandchildren, Natalie and Joshua Litten, Seth Larson, Riley and Dylan Bosch, Madison Brown, Melinda and Mason White.

Adelaide was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Vernon Larson; and two sons, David and Jerome Larson.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Ruth Emma Amelia Kallevang

February 2, 2005

Ruth Emma Amelia Kallevang, 93, of Cresco, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2005, at the Howard County Hospital.

Ruth was born on July 23, 1911, in the rural Ossian area to Henry and Rose (Meyer) Mundt. She attended the Centennial School near Castalia, Iowa. Ruth married James Kallevang on May 5, 1938, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia. James and Ruth farmed for 39 years in the Decorah and Cresco areas, retiring in 1977. They then moved to Cresco.

She was very active in many organizations including the Farm Bureau, the Farm Bureau Women's Chorus, Rebekah Lodge, the Sons of Norway and the First Lutheran Church. Ruth also enjoyed her family, music and crocheting.

She is survived by her husband, James; three children, Rosalie (Bob) Fountain of Rochester, Minnesota, Carol (Dutch) Doane of Little Cedar, Iowa and Jens (Jane) Kallevang of Waukon, Iowa; sisters, Marvel Ode of Lanesboro, Minnesota and Mildred (Vernon) Lofte of Ossian, Iowa; nine grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; grandchild, Jessica Kallevang; sister, Viola Birdsell; and three brothers, Lloyd, Glen and Leslie Mundt.

The Lindstrom Funeral Home, Cresco, Iowa, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Twyla Paulson

February 2, 2005

Twyla Paulson, 76, of Marshalltown, died on Wednesday, January 26, 2005, at the Veterans Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa.

Funeral services were held at the Iowa Veterans Home Chapel, Marshalltown, Iowa, on Monday, January 31, with Chaplain Craig Nelson officiating. She will be cremated and interment will be in the Rock Creek Lutheran Church Cemetery, Osage, Iowa, at a later date.

Twyla was born on April 18, 1928 in Mitchell County, the daughter of Gus and Margaret (Bahnsen) Paulson. She was a member, baptized, and confirmed in the Rock Creek Lutheran Church, Osage, Iowa. She graduated from the Osage High School in 1946, entered the Army and was honorably discharged on April 14, 1952.

Twyla was also a member of the Legion Auxiliary and VFW. She traveled the country and spent much of her life working a variety of jobs.

Twyla is survived by two sisters, Joyce Hveem of Osage and Bonnie and husband, John Picht of Plymouth, Iowa; one brother, Dr. V. C. Paulson and wife, Joan of Greenbrae, California; her sister-in-law, Bernice Paulson of Osage; 15 loving nieces and nephews; and friends galore.

Twyla was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Gaylon; and brother-in-law, Hans Hveem.

Because of Twyla's strong desire to help young children in need, the family requests that expressions of sympathy be designated to go to the children's Make-a-Wish program.

The Estel Perrin Avey Funeral Home was in charge of the services.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Donald C. Larsen

February 2, 2005

Donald C. Larsen, died on Thursday, January 27, 2005, at the Regional Health Services Hospital in Cresco, of respiratory failure.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 2, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco. Friends may call at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco, from 4-8:00 p.m., on Tuesday evening and also one hour before the services at the church.

Donald Charles Larsen, was born on February 24, 1924, at home in Howard County, rural Saratoga, on the farm his grandfather, Niels Larsen purchased in 1885. He and his siblings attended country school at Howard #4. Since there was no well at the school, the children went to the farm next door to get drinking water and carry it back to the school each day. That farm is where Arnold and Rose Laue, friends of the Larsen's lived. The Great Depression forced his family off its farm. Don's mother became ill. Due to Don's mother's illness the younger siblings went to live with family and friends. Arnold and Rose invited him to stay with them and he did for the rest of their lives. A few years after he joined them on the Maple Leaf farm the three of them moved north of Cresco where Don remained until his death.

Don's love in life was farming and people. He loved to farm. This past harvest season he took one last round in the combine. He was disappointed when the end of the harvest season arrived and the 'toys' had to be put away for another year. One of his favorite hobbies was collecting John Deere memorabilia. Don served on the church council at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco for a number of years. In 1992, Don started a non-profit agency (L and L) to build apartments for senior citizens and generate income to give to various community organizations for years to come. In 2001, Don was inducted into the Times Plain Dealer Hall of Fame for his generous contributions to the growth of his community.

Donald is survived by two of his 11 siblings, Elma Maebelle Larsen Burgart of New Hampton, Iowa and Rose Marie Susie Larsen Belmont of Vista, California. Although Don was never married or had any children of his own, he did have six Godchildren, Emily, Laura, Sherrie, Serenity, Hayley and Chole. In addition to his sisters and Godchildren, a host of nieces, nephews and dear friends survive him.

Preceding Don in death were his parents, Elmer Spencer Larsen and Rosabel Inwards Larsen; siblings, Laura Irene Larsen Stevenson, Victor Theodore Larsen, Nels Whitman Duke Larsen, Leonard Lemoine Larsen, Mildred Marie Larsen Stevenson, Arlene Winnifred Larsen Bonnette, Elmer Kenneth Larsen and Duwayne William Larsen and his beloved Arnold and Rosella Stevenson Laue.

Don genuinely loved his family and friends and was genuinely loved and respected in return. We shall most certainly miss his light in our lives and community. God Bless you Don.

The Lindstrom Funeral Home, Cresco, Iowa, had charge of the arrangements.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Marlo A. Durby

February 2, 2005

Marlo A. Durby, 68, of Lake Mills, died on Saturday, January 29, 2005, at the Lake Mills Care Center.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Thursday, at the Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills, with Rev. Roger Dykstra officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m., on Wednesday evening, at the Mittelstadt Funeral Home and again one hour prior to the services at the church on Thursday. Burial will take place in the Salem Memorial Cemetery in Lake Mills, Iowa.

Marlo Archie Durby, was born on October 6, 1936 in rural Forest City, Iowa, the son of Palmer and Nettie (Rognehaugh) Durby. He graduated from the Thompson High School in 1954. He was united in marriage to Donna Vermedal on October 10, 1954 in Scarville, Iowa. To this union, three children were born, Tony, Cindy and Trisha. On March 15, 1979, Marlo was united in marriage to Bethel (Lashbrook) Staff in Mason City. Marlo was employed in the telephone business 43 years of his life. This included the RTA in Thompson, the Lake Mills Telephone Company as manager for 18 years and WCTA in Lake Mills as staff assistant of 17 years. Marlo retired in 2000.

Marlo was very active in the Lake Mills community including 31 years on the Lake Mills Fire Department, six years as Fire Marshall and two years as Fire Chief. He served on the city council for 24 years, as mayor pro-tem for 10 of those years. He was an active member in the Salem Lutheran Church, church council and past-president. He was a sports announcer for the Lake Mills Bulldogs football and basketball games. Marlo loved spending time on the golf course and also worked in the Pro Shop at the Rice Lake Golf and Country Club after he retired.

Marlo is survived by his wife, Bethel Durby of Lake Mills, Iowa; three children, Tony and his wife, Leontine Durby of St. Eustatius, Netherlands Antilles, Cindy and her husband, Craig Haugsdal of Lake Mills, Iowa and Trisha and her husband, Jerry Dahl of Albert Lea, Minnesota; three step-children, Linda and her husband, Dick Smith of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Marty and his wife, Karen Staff of Glen Ellyn, Illinois and Mary and her husband, Rick Lehman of Waterloo, Iowa; 13 grandchildren, Danielle and Pascal Durby, Michael and Kari Haugsdal, Spencer, Emma and Carter Dahl, Lisa Schumacher, Shelley Lauritson, Sheri and Matt Staff, Sara Comer and Chass Lehman; three great-grandchildren, Vaneesha, Jayla and Mya; one brother, Merle and his wife, Blanche Durby of Thompson, Iowa; two sisters, Dorothy Guhl of Jewell, Iowa and Ruby and her husband, Dean Farland of Thompson, Iowa; along with several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Marlo was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, John; one sister-in-law, Delores; one brother-in-law, Al Guhl; and two granddaughters, Dana Haugsdal and Hailey Dahl.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press

Paul W. Shaffer

February 2, 2005

Paul W. Shaffer, age 41, of Osage, died on Sunday, January 30, 2005, at his home.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Thursday, February 3, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, with Rev. Dr. J. Samuel Subramanian officiating. Inurnment will be in the Osage Cemetery. There will be a gathering of family and friends from 5-7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, at the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home.

Paul was born on November 18, 1963 in Osage, the son of Bill Shaffer and Marilyn (Dorl) Shaffer. Paul was educated in the Osage Schools, graduating from the Osage High School in 1982. He was employed at Dimensional Graphics in Mason City.

Paul was an avid Chicago Cubs, Miami Dolphins, and Iowa Hawkeyes fan. He was also an avid follower and supporter of all Osage High School athletics. He enjoyed spending time with his many friends.

Paul is survived by his mother, Marilyn Shaffer of Osage; his father, Bill Shaffer of Hazel Green, Wisconsin; three sisters, Brenda Voight and significant other, Steve Willey and nephew, Ryan Voight of Owatonna, Minnesota; Sally (Zeke) Ogden of Osage; Amy (Brian) Beaver and nephew and niece, Cody and Katie Beaver of St. Ansgar; one brother, Russ Shaffer and nephews, Lee and Jay Shaffer of Dubuque; maternal grandmother, Vi Coutant of Upton, Wyoming; and numerous aunts and uncles.

Paul was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Bill and Edna Shaffer; two maternal grandfathers, Fred Dorl and Smokey Coutant; and a brother-in-law, Russ Voight.

Funeral arrangements were made by the Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage.
© 2005 Mitchell County Press