Bradley Berns

Bradley John Berns, 29, of Clermont, Iowa died Wednesday, June 11, 2014.

He was born August 19, 1984 to Richard and Cindy (Kerr) Berns in Postville, Iowa. Brad graduated from Postville High School in 2003. While growing up he enjoyed helping on the family farm, playing sports, participating in FFA, and working for various businesses in the community.

He attended and received his B.A. Degree in 2007 from Wartburg College, Waverly, Iowa. His interest in business began while working at Rada Manufacturing in Waverly. He then attended and received his M.A. Degrees from the University of Iowa in Hospital Care Administration and Business Administration. Upon graduation from Iowa he worked at the Iowa City VA Hospital before beginning his fellowship career in healthcare administration at Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Brad was united in marriage with Bridget Nelson on January 3, 2009 at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa. 

In 2013 they moved back to Northeast Iowa to begin farming on the Nelson Family Farm.  January of 2014 he, with his brother-in-law Cody, formed the TriGen Partnership. Farming was his lifelong dream and passion. He thrived on building the farm and his relationships with Cody, “the guys”, and the community. A common theme from his lips was “I love farming and I could do it all hours of the day”.

Brad’s other interests include riding his Harley, being with family and friends, fishing, hunting, and watching sports. Brad’s love of flying began as a young child with his grandfather, he was ecstatic to earn his pilot’s license in 2013. He was looking forward to investing in his own airplane and traveling the Midwest. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his dog/sidekick, Allie and Bridget. 

Brad is survived by his wife, Bridget of Clermont; his dog, Allie; his parents, Richard and Cindy Berns of Postville; two sisters, Stacy (Cory) Miner of Postville and Becky Berns (friend, Zach Steffans) of Postville; grandparents, Keith and Verta Kerr of Postville; his father and mother-in-law, Mark and Denise Nelson of Clermont, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Kirstin (Cody) Lerch of Clermont; a brother-in-law, Chad Nelson of St. Louis, Missouri; two nieces, Regan and Avery and many other family and friends.

Brad was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Leo and Lucille Berns and an uncle, Gene Berns.

Brad touched many peoples’ lives with his contagious enthusiasm and outgoing personality. His generosity was evident in his desire to be an organ donor. He was loved by so many people who will continue to cherish his memory and keep his spirit alive.

Visitation was held Sunday, June 15, 2014 from 3-8 pm at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa with a one hour visitation before mass at St. Bridget Catholic Church, Postville, Iowa on Monday.

Mass of Christian Burial was at 10:30 am on Monday, June 16, 2014 at St. Bridget Catholic Church, Postville, Iowa with Rev. Greg Bahl as the Celebrant.

Burial followed at Smith Cemetery, Postville, Iowa.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Postville, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements. 

Lewis Churbuck

Lewis Marshall Churbuck, Jr., passed away Monday June 9, 2014 in his Fayette home.

Churbuck was born August 21, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, son of Lewis Marshall Churbuck and Mary Lou (Stock) Churbuck of Chicago.

Lew attended high school at Tabor Academy, Marion, Massachusetts and Hinsdale Township High School, Hinsdale, Illinois, graduating in 1959. Then Churbuck spent 4 years in the U.S. Navy. Lew attended Upper Iowa University for his Bachelor’s degree and graduated in 1967. He went on to the University of Northern Iowa for his Master’s, graduating in 1975, while teaching full time.

Perhaps what will be Churbuck's biggest legacy at UIU is the founding of the Conservation Management major in 1974. He was also proud to work with the University of Iowa to bring Electron Microscopy to UIU.

During his 37 years at Upper Iowa he was awarded many commendations. He as given an honorary doctorate, as well as the Chair of Biology.

Lew's enthusiasm for nature and science got others interested. He could name the local flora in proper Latin on sight. Students of any major found him approachable for questions and counsel. Throughout his retirement students, alums, and faculty have continued to visit him.

Some of Churbuck's favorite quotes have been often repeated:

"You can't hoot with the owls at night and fly with the eagles at dawn."

"When in trouble or in doubt, run in circles, scream and shout!"

"You will miss me when I am gone."……...We do.

Lew is survived by his wife of 50 years, Millicent Kathleen (Davies) Churbuck and daughter, Kim. He was preceded in death by his son Lewis M. Churbuck, III; a sister and a brother.

A gathering of students and faculty will be held for Lew, Thursday, June 19, 2014 at 10:00a.m. in the UIU Student Center Ballroom (2nd floor).

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to Lew's endowed scholarship at UIU: UIU, PO Box 1857, Fayette, IA 52142 or Milly Churbuck, PO Box 368, Fayette, Iowa 52142.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home is assisting the family.  25u25

Lennis Moore

Lennis L. Moore, 64, of Mt. Pleasant, died Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at his home.

An event honoring Lennis will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Midwest Old Threshers at Museum B. Memorials may be sent to Kimzey Funeral Home of Mt. Pleasant for Midwest Old Threshers or to scholarships in Art at Luther College.

Lennis Lee Moore was born Feb. 20, 1950, in McGregor, the son of Leonard Leo and Bernita Ilene (nee Larson) Moore. He was raised on the family farm between Elkader and Elgin. He was graduated from Valley High School in 1968.

Following graduation, Lennis enrolled at Luther College in Decorah, studying under Orville M. Running, specializing in woodcut printmaking. He was conferred with a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from Luther in 1972. He met Sandra Lynn Sabin at Luther College and on Sept. 9, 1972, Lennis and Sandy were united in marriage at the Zion Lutheran Church in Rake.

In January 1973, Lennis was hired by the Sanford Museum and Planetarium in Cherokee, where he built museum exhibits and taught classes in Cherokee Schools. In 1978, Lennis and Sandy moved to Mt. Pleasant where Lennis began 34 years of service with Midwest Old Settlers and Threshers. There he oversaw every aspect of the operation, including designing and installing many of the interpretive museum exhibits and coordinating the annual Midwest Old Threshers Reunion.

Lennis was a lifelong printmaker. In Mt. Pleasant he worked with Iowa Wesleyan College and collaborated with artists on many woodcut and printmaking exhibitions. In recent years, Lennis’ woodcuts were represented by the Iowa Artisan Gallery in Iowa City, Eckheart Art Gallery in Decorah, Lanesboro Art Center in Minnesota, and on the web at lennismoore.com.

In Mt. Pleasant, Lennis was a member of the First Presbyterian Church where he sang in the Westminster Choir and was a member of the Mt. Pleasant Kiwanis Club. Lennis and his wife Sandy also owned the Iris City Antique Mall. For many years, Lennis was the announcer for the Mt. Pleasant Community High School Marching Band Invitational. He served as a Natural Resource Commissioner for the Iowa DNR and was an honorary colonel in the Iowa National Guard for his service to the State of Iowa.

Lennis loved to travel to the world, especially to visit his children abroad. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, and photographing the Midwest and finding images for new woodcuts. He and Sandy also spent many happy hours at their home with their children, grandchildren, and friends.

Those thankful for sharing in Lennis’ life include his wife Sandy of Mt Pleasan; their children; son Lucas, wife Erin and daughter Amber Rose, of Coralville, son Benjamin and wife Sarah Frydenlund of Decorah, and daughter Catie, husband Bob Scott and son Anderson James, of Kyiv, Ukraine; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Melvin Hageman

Melvin Hageman, age 86, of Fort Atkinson, died on Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at the Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Monday, June 16, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Calmar with the Rev. Donald Hawes officiating.

Interment was in St. Aloysius Catholic Cemetery in Calmar.

Schluter-Balik Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.

Melvin Felix Hageman was born on Aug. 22, 1927, to Felix and Monica (Holthaus) Hageman on a farm in rural Calmar. He went to St. Al’s Catholic School in Calmar and farmed his childhood farm his entire life. He married Helen Heying on Sept. 29, 1953, in Festina.

He was a lifelong member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church.   Melvin enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren’s sporting events and for the last 15 years has had his assigned seat in the South Winneshiek Warrior baseball dugout. He loved baseball, Sunday dinners, playing cards, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and most of all, his family.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 60 years, Helen; seven children, Daniel (Laurie Kimber) Hageman, Waucoma, Sheryl (Perry) Sievert, Calmar; Timothy (Lori) Hageman, Ossian; Patrick (Gretchen) Hageman, Marshalltown; Joseph (Cheryl) Hageman, Calmar; Sue (Darin) Einwalter, Fort Atkinson; Sally (Mark) Schwartzhoff, Fort Atkinson, one daughter-in-law, Sandy Hageman, Calmar; 23 grandchildren; Cassandra (Corey) Tieskoetter, Ali and Tanner Hageman; Hailey (Matt Nickell) Hageman; Bryan (Jamie) Sievert, Kyle (Jessy Tuttle) Sievert, Tyler (Jocelyn Sanchez) Sievert; Courtney (Steve Huinker) Hageman, Nolan and Colton Hageman; Reese, Bennett and Luke Hageman; Ryan, Abby and Logan Hageman; Toril, Josie, William and Addyson Einwalter and Monica, Rodney and Emmett Schwartzhoff; and great grandchildren, Caleb, Carter, Chloe, Aaleyah, and baby Tieskoetter due in July.  He is also survived by sisters and brothers-in-law: Margaret Hageman, Calmar; Pat Heying, Ossian; Dennis and Marion Heying, Hawkeye; Ernie and Kay Heying, Calmar; John and Louise Heying, Calmar; Doris Bouska, Hawkeye; Carl and Carol Heying, Epworth; Lorna and Cletus Bouska, Waucoma; Robert and Tina Zoppel Heying, Napa, Calif.; Mary Ann and Dick Trewin, Waucoma, and Sue Heying, Calmar, nephew Paul Schmitz, Mabel, Minn., and many other nephews, nieces and friends and one special Norwegian foreign exchange student, Toril Stanton, England.

Those preceding him in death are his son, Rodney on Oct. 6, 1997; his parents, Felix and Monica Hageman, his father and mother-in-la; Joe and Rose Heying; brothers Julius and Irene Hageman, Carl Hageman, Richard and Clara Mae Hageman, Gust Hageman; one sister, Irene and Edmund Schmitz; brothers and sisters-in-law, Greg and Helen Heying, Paul Heying, Jim and Betty Bruess, and Jim Bouska, nephews Charles Hageman, Jerry and Jeff Schmitz, and Jim Bruess and one niece, Kristie Bouska Foreman. 

Lois T. Russell

Lois T. Russell, 88, of Marshall, Mo., formerly of Ossian, died Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at The Living Center in Marshall.

Memorial services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, June 16, at Campbell-Lewis Chapel in Marshall, with Rev. Matt Arni officiating.

Inurnment will be noon on June 20.

Kenneth Wiltgen

Kenneth Wiltgen, 70, Ossian, died Saturday, June 14, 2014, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Friday, June 20, with a Scripture Service at 7 p.m. at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian. There will also be a one-hour visitation before mass at the church on Saturday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2014 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian, with Msgr. Cletus Hawes as the Celebrant.

Inurnment will follow at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery, Ossian.
Schmitz - Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ossian, is helping the family with the arrangements.

Jack Treloar

Jack Eugene Treloar, age 80, died Sunday June 15, 2014 at New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center due to complications of Lewy Body Parkinson’s Disease. 

Funeral services were held at 3:00pm on Saturday June 21, 2014 at St. Peter’s Richfield Lutheran Church, rural Sumner Iowa with Pastor Wayne Ellingson presiding.  Interment was at the Alpha Cemetery with military honors.

Friends greeted the family at a celebration of Jack’s life on Saturday June 21, 2014 from 5:00pm-8:00pm at the Waucoma American Legion Hall.

Jack Eugene Treloar was born May 26, 1934 in New Hampton, Iowa, the son of Edward and Laura (Smith) Treloar.

He attended Waucoma High School and was a 1953 graduate.  He served in the United States Army as a Tank Commander from March 1954-February 1956, he was stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict.

He married Judith Westpfahl on April 30, 1958 in Hawkeye, Iowa.  To this union four children were born.  Jack farmed all of his life where he resided prior to a recent move to the New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Jack was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing, and time at his cabin near his pond.  Above all he loved his family, friends, and this country. He was a loyal and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Survivors include his wife Judy, two daughters, Kay (Ray) Snyder, Kim (Rick) Conrad, both of Waucoma, two sons, Kevin (Teresa) Treloar, Hendersonville, TN, Kurt Treloar and friend Jen Pollard, both of Waverly; thirteen grandchildren, Clayton (Julie) Snyder, Josh Snyder, Kelly (Craig) Speltz, Kalista Porath, Keelee Conrad, Kyle (Rachel) Conrad, Donnie Schaer, Ryan Treloar, Hailey Treloar, Dylan Treloar, Andrea Treloar, Kohle Nieland, Carter Treloar, and foster granddaughter, Jaymee (Bronson) Chevalier; ten  great grandchildren, Jordon & Olivia Snyder, Jamison & Jaxson Porath, Kaeden & Karson Conrad, Hailey & Hannah Schaer, Madelynn & Marcus Chevalier; one brother, Donald (Mary) Treloar of Hawkeye, one sister, Joyce Ellickson of Decorah, and father in law, Oliver Westpfahl, Sr. of Hawkeye. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward & Laura Treloar, Mildred Westpfahl, mother in law, sisters, Beth Wireman, Katherine Flaig, Marion Bahlmann, brothers, George Treloar, and Clayton Treloar (killed in the Korean Conlict).

Honorary pallbearers included grandsons; Clayton Snyder, Josh Snyder, Kyle Conrad, Donnie Schaer, Ryan Treloar, Dylan Treloar, Kohle Nieland, and Carter Treloar.     26u26

LeRoy Franzen

LeRoy Franzen, age 78, of Festina, died Saturday, June 14, 2014.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas with the Rev. Nick March officiating.

Interment was in St. Luke’s Catholic Cemetery in St. Lucas.

Schluter-Balik Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.

LeRoy Edward Franzen was born on April 11, 1936, the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Bruening) Franzen on the family farm near St. Lucas. LeRoy graduated from St. Luke’s Catholic High School in 1954. While in high school he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball.

He farmed with his father until he purchased the family farm.

LeRoy was united in marriage to JoAnn Lutkenhaus on June 29, 1960, at Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Festina.  To this union 14 children were born: Deborah, Kathy, Marilyn, Timothy, Patrick, Keith, Jean, Daniel, Dean, Michael, Scott, Beth, Julie, and Gregory.

Along with farming, LeRoy also worked at Bushman Farms, Brumwell Organic Foods, and Beatrice Cheese. He retired and moved to Festina in 2008. LeRoy enjoyed fishing, hunting, dancing, mushroom hunting, playing cards and socializing with family and friends. He was very proud that the family farm became a Century Farm in 2013.  LeRoy was a life-long member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church.

LeRoy is survived by his wife, JoAnn Franzen, Festina; 14 children, Deborah (James) Shults, Grand Junction, Colo.; Kathy (Scott) Steffen, Carroll; Marilyn (Richard) Nesbitt, Coal Valley, Ill.; Timothy (Connie) Franzen, Festina; Patrick (Kendra) Franzen, Luana; Keith (Robin) Franzen, Riceville; Jean (Michael) Everhart, Cedar Rapids; Daniel (Sarah) Franzen, Fort Atkinson; Dean (Nancy) Franzen, Fort Atkinson; Michael Franzen, Festina; Scott (Denise) Franzen, St. Lucas; Beth (Graeme) Sandlin, Port Townsend, Wash.; Julie (Joshua) Nolte, Waucoma; and Gregory Franzen, Festina. LeRoy is also survived by numerous grandchildren.

LeRoy’s surviving siblings and in-laws: Carl Franzen, Ossian; Irvin Franzen, Hawkeye; Helen (Ronald) Palmersheim, Greeley; Marion Franzen, Decorah; Eleanora Franzen, Ossian; and Janet Franzen, Ossian; Shirley (Edward) Morris, Cedar Rapids; Donna Mae (William) Davis, Cedar Rapids; John (LuAnn) Lutkenhaus, Cedar Rapids; Karen (Bernard) Busta, Waucoma; LaVonne “Bonnie” (Dean) Patrick, West Union; and Mary Jo Wharton, Denver, Colo., along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Elizabeth Franzen; one grandson, in infancy, Matthew Nesbitt; siblings, Catherine (Roy) Tierney, Marie (Lawrence) Bruening, Leonard (Mary) Franzen, Raymond Franzen, Guido “Pete” Franzen, Theresa (Ray) Baumler, Theckla Franzen in infancy, Louis (Arlene) Franzen, and Lawrence (Pat) Franzen; sister-in-law: Madeline Franzen.  LeRoy’s father and mother-in-law, Gregory and Marie (Ehler) Lutkenhaus.

Kenneth Wiltgen

Kenneth Wiltgen, 70, Ossian, died Saturday, June 14, 2014, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 21, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian, with Msgr. Cletus Hawes as the Celebrant.

Inurnment followed at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery, Ossian.

Memorials in Ken’s honor may be directed to the Ossian Fire Department, Ossian Ambulance Service, DeSales School or the Ossian Medical Clinic.

Schmitz - Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ossian, assisted the family with the arrangements.

Kenneth Raphael, the son of Francis and Rita (Wenthold) Wiltgen, was born Oct. 8, 1943, in Decorah. Ken graduated from De Sales High School in Ossian.  He worked for Becker Hardware in Ossian for six years before becoming a maintainer operator for Winneshiek County.  After 35 years with Winneshiek County, Ken retired and went back to work part-time for Becker Hardware for seven years. 

Ken was united in marriage with Carol Zweibohmer on Nov. 11, 1964, at St. Bridget Catholic Church in Postville.  To this union, five children were born.

Ken was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. He served on the Ossian Fire Department for several years and was a member of the Silver Springs Golf and Country Club in Ossian. He had also served on the De Sales School board.

Ken thanked God for every day and many heard him say “Every day was a good one.” He loved his wife and family beyond words.  The annual family fishing vacation in Minnesota was a highlight of the year for him.  And throughout the year, he was a dedicated spectator of the grandchildren’s sports and school events.

He took great pride in his country home and grooming the lawn with his John Deere mower. The family always relied on his advice and “Mr. Fix-it” talents. Everyone knew he was an early riser, and rarely did he miss a morning to watch one of God’s sunrises.

Ken was a huge fan of country music and played in a band for several years.  And just last year, he saw some of his very favorite country singers at the Grand Old Opry in Nashville.

He always looked forward to Sunday mornings with his coffee group friends.  Many things were discussed, but always with lots of laughter.

There is no doubt that he loved life, and these are some of his final words:  “I’ve had a good life – I am happy.”

Ken is survived by his wife Carol of 49 years; five children, Marcine (Tom) Raatz of Polk City; Lisa (Marty) Lensing of Decorah; Annette (Eric) Schweinefus of Polk City; Jennifer (Al) Schott of Clermont; and Ryan (Kristie) Wiltgen of Spillville; 10 grandchildren, Dustin (Katrina) Raatz, Mikayla Raatz, Becca Lensing, Braden Lensing, Cody (Katie Huinker) Schweinefus, Madison Schweinefus, Croy Schott, Dane Schott, Collin Wiltgen, and Ayla Wiltgen; five siblings, Bill (Marian) Wiltgen of Ossian; Pat (Larry) Bruening of New Hampton; Tim (Mary) Wiltgen of Fredericksburg; Betty (Allan) Franzen of Fredericksburg; and Lori (Gary) Dietzenbach of Ft. Atkinson; and his in-laws, Joe and Jan Connell, Doris Walz, Terry and Shirley Lensing, and Larry and Helena Zweibohmer.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Rita Wiltgen; a brother who died in infancy, Terry; a sister who died in infancy, Marceen; his father-in-law and mother–in-law, Ray and Winifred Zweibohmer, his brother-in-law, Art Walz; and a nephew, Jerry Walz.

Irma Bullerman

Irma Bullerman, age 90, of Calmar, IA, died Sunday, June 22, 2014, at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, IA. 

     Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 27, 2014, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 304 South Maryville, Calmar, IA, with Rev. Donald Hawes presiding. Burial was in the church cemetery.

The lector was Lori Litterer. The Offertory gift bearers were Irma’s daughters Vernelle Holthaus, Judy Lansing, and Sue Hannasch. Vernelle Holthaus and Tom Hannasch were the Eucharistic ministers.

The organist was Jeanette Dietzenbach accompanying the St. Aloysius Choir; Tom Hannasch was the soloist. Songs were “Here I Am, Lord,” “Heart of Jesus,” “Hail, Mary, Gentle Woman,” “Goin’ Home,” and “Waltz of the Angels.”

Interment was in the church cemetery. Casket bearers were Ken Bullerman, Joe Bullerman, Ken Lansing, Ron Bullerman, Dan Bullerman, and Tom Hannasch. Honorary casket bearers were Irma’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Arrangements were handled by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home, French Chapel, in Calmar.

Irma Ann (Schmitt) Bullerman was born on May 19, 1924, the daughter of William and Anna (Kuennen) Schmitt on the family farm near St. Lucas, IA.

Irma attended St. Luke’s Catholic School and graduated from high school in 1942. 

She worked as a hired gal and did in home care.

On June 3, 1946 she was married to Leonard Bullerman at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas, Iowa.  To this union seven children were born:  Vernelle, Kenneth, Judy, Ronald, Joseph, Daniel, and Susan. 

Leonard and Irma started farming west of Calmar in 1946, moved to a family farm south of Calmar in 1951, then to a farm west of Calmar in 1973, and retired moving into Calmar in 1986.

Irma enjoyed playing cards, crocheting, knitting, listening to polka music, dancing, visiting with friends and neighbors, and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Irma was well known for her tasty apple pies and sugar cookies.

She was a long-time member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church, St. Aloysius Rosary Society, the Calmar Senior Citizens and was an Auxiliary member of the Halverson-Giesen American Legion Post #266 of Calmar.

Irma is survived by her three daughters: Vernelle Holthaus, Hawkeye, Iowa; Judy (Kenneth) Lansing, Ossian, IA; and Sue (Tom) Hannasch, Apple Valley, MN.  Four sons:  Kenneth (Janet) Bullerman, Ronald (Norma) Bullerman, Joseph (Marcia) Bullerman, and Daniel Bullerman, all of Calmar, IA. Twenty-two grandchildren: Lori (Dana) Litterer, Leslie (Tony) Becker, Gary Holthaus, Kelly (Kim) Holthaus, Lynn Nelson, Marcus (Jessica) Holthaus, Travis (Tonya) Holthaus, Julie Bullerman, Mark (Jessica) Bullerman, Kelli Bullerman, Chris Bullerman, Shawn (Leah) Lansing, Shelby Lansing, Shane (Tabatha) Lansing, Megan Lansing, Adam (Kim) Bullerman, Amy (Jamie) Hammersland, Ryan (Renee) Bullerman, Matthew (Heather) Bullerman, Robert (Alyssa) Bullerman, Maria (Mike) Bumgarner and John Hannasch.  Twenty six great grandchildren: Jason Holthaus, Nathan Litterer, Aiden Becker, Ethan, Ava & Hayden Holthaus, Caleb & Noah Nelson, Lauren, Natalie & Jaclyn Holthaus, Keanna, Collin, Carson & Kendall Lansing, Blake Bullerman, Owen & Griffen Hammersland, Gavin, Camden & Landon Bullerman, Isaac & Annalise Bullerman and Vanessa, Joseph & Hannah Bullerman.  Three sisters:  Della Langreck, Cresco, IA; Lucy (Urban) Dietzenbach, Cresco, IA; and Helen Noska, West Union, IA.  Four brothers:  Arthur (Agnes) Schmitt, West Union, IA; Edmund (Norma) Schmitt, West Union, IA; Alex (Shirley) Schmitt, West Union, IA; and Gerald (Rosetta) Schmitt, West Union, IA.  Two sisters-in-law: Kathryn Uhlenhake, Ossian, IA, and Leona Bullerman, Calmar, IA, along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Irma was preceded in death by her parents: William and Anna (Kuennen) Schmitt. Her husband: Leonard Bullerman on Feb. 21, 2009.  Son-in-law: Loren Holthaus. Grandson: Mark Lansing, who died in infancy. Her father and mother-in-law: Joseph and Catherine (Timp) Bullerman.  Her brothers and sisters-in-law: Angela (Hugo) Zweibohmer, Helen Bullerman, Ray Uhlenhake, Raymond (Josephine) Bullerman, Vincent Bullerman, Gene Noska and Leo Langreck.            27u27

Margie Knutson

Margie Joan Knutson, age 77, of West Union, IA, died from complications following surgery on Sunday, June 22, 2014, surrounded by her family, at the Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, WI.

A Celebration of Life service was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 28, at Zion Lutheran Church in West Union. The Rev. Nancy Larson officiated.

Providing music were organist Leslie Poppen and vocalists Larry Johansen and Debbie Lafferty. Songs included “In the Garden,” “On Eagle’s Wings,” and “Here I Am, Lord.” “Thy Will Be Done” was sung as a duet. The congregational hymn was “Borning Cry.”

Honorary pallbearers were all of Margie’s grandchildren and her great-grandchild.

Arrangements were handled by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home in Decorah.

Margie Joan (Buisman) Knutson was born on October 30, 1936, the daughter of William Earl and Nellie Mae (Ross) Buisman in Guttenberg, IA. 

Margie attended school in Guttenberg and then moved to Elkader during her junior year, graduating in 1954.  She attended Luther College in Decorah and received her teaching certificate. 

During her time at Luther, she met her future husband, Richard Knutson.  They were married on June 17, 1956, in Guttenberg.

Margie taught grade school in Canton, MN and taught as a substitute at North Fayette Schools.  She returned to school, and received her Bachelor’s degree from Upper Iowa University.

She worked as a stay-at-home mother when her children were young and then as a District Court Attendant in the First Judicial District of Iowa, retiring in 2000. 

Margie was very active and served in various chairs including Worthy Matron with the Oelwein Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star #45, and President of the Wednesday Art Club.  She continually volunteered in the community, helping with school sporting events, serving as a founder and secretary of the West Union Area Officials Association, and participating in the Palmer Hospital Auxiliary. 

She enjoyed playing Granny Basketball until 2009.  She was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church, active in Do-Days, helping with the choir and mentoring the youth.  Margie also played piano accompaniments for many North Fayette students as they competed in band and vocal musical contests over the years.

Margie is survived by her pride and joy, her seven children: Becky Knutson (Jim Usgaard), Urbandale, IA; Beth (Gordon) Sharp, Crosby, MN; Barb (Mike) Baker, Grinnell, IA; Brenda Schaller, Decorah, IA; Betsy Jepsen (Clarence Hudson), Urbandale, IA; Brooke (Rich) Carter, Denver, IA; and Bill (Mary) Knutson, Fairbank, IA; twelve grandchildren: Chelsea Doshan, Craig Doshan, A.J. Baker, Trent Baker, Casey Schaller, Zac Schaller, Chris Jepsen, Nick Jepsen, Jessica Carter, Jaci Carter, Katelyn Knutson and Emma Knutson;  and great-granddaughter: Ava Doshan. 

She is also survived by two brothers: William Buisman, Plano, TX, and Gerald (Dixie) Buisman, Marion, IA, along with many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Margie was preceded in death by her parents: William Earl and Nellie Mae (Ross) Buisman; her husband, Richard Knutson in Feb. 2005; her sister-in-law and best friend, Mary Trese Buisman; and her neighbor and special friend, June Kraft.

Memorials may be given in Margie’s memory to the Margie J. Knutson Memorial Fund, c/o Brenda Schaller, 309 Mound St., Decorah, IA 52101.      27u27

Janice Teare

Janice M. Teare, 76, of Cedar Falls and formerly of Sumner and Hawkeye, died Friday, June 27, 2014, at Rosewood Estates in Waterloo.

Funeral services were held 10 a.m. Monday, June 30, at the First United Methodist Church in Cedar Falls with Rev. Steve Williams officiating. 

Committal services were at 2 p.m., Monday at Hawkeye Cemetery.

Becker-Milnes Funeral home in Sumner assisted the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Janice Marie, daughter of Joy and Fern Brooks Moore, was born April 21, 1938, in Fayette County.

She was united in marriage with Clyde D. Teare on Aug. 25, 1961.

Jan worked as a welder for many years at Hinson’s and later at Deere & Co. in Waterloo. She was a partner for a few years at Dolls 4 U, a ceramics shop in Sumner.

Jan and Clyde lived in Hawkeye and Sumner for many years prior to moving to Waterloo in 2003.

Following Clyde’s death in 2003, Jan continued to make her home in Black Hawk County, most recently in Cedar Falls. She became a very active member of the First United Methodist Church of Cedar Falls, where she sang in the Church Choir and participated in Bible Study.

She was an accomplished seamstress, having made several of her daughter’s wedding gowns. She also loved to sing.

Jan is survived by five daughters, Cindy (Tim Livingstone) Guyer of Dysart, Celeste Kruse of Iowa Falls, Estelle (Roland) Fortin of Bassett, Va., Tammy (Jim) Thimmesch of Aurora, and Cheryl Schrage of Dunkerton; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and her partner, William C. Morse, Jr. of Cedar Falls.

In addition to her husband and parents, Jan was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Daniel and Desiree Kruse, and one brother, Monty Hall.

Martin Jennings

Martin Eldon Jennings, 76, of Springville, was called to stand before the Lord Sunday, June 29, 2014, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy. His death came 55 days following the passing of his wife, Darlene.

A prayer service will begin at 4 p.m. today (Wednesday, July 2) at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Marion.  The family will greet friends following the prayer service until 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Graveside services will be held for Darlene and Martin back home in Ossian at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House in Martin’s memory.

The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the amazing staff at Hospice of Mercy for their care and compassion shown to Martin and his family.

Please sign the online guestbook for Martin at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

  Martin was born Nov. 17, 1937, in Decorah, the son of Enos and Nellie (Thorton) Jennings. After graduation from Ossian High School in 1955, he served for the United States Navy.  

On May 28, 1960, Martin married Darlene Snitker at the Zalmona Presbyterian Church in Waukon. 

Martin worked for Rockwell Collins for 30 years. He was also a proud volunteer fire fighter and EMT for the Springville Fire Department for 20 years. He drove school bus and worked part-time for the City of Springville. Martin was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan. 

He loved being outdoors and enjoyed nothing more than trout fishing and a quiet nap in the camper. He loved to play Skip Bo and took the game to a whole new level. Martin was happiest spending time with his grandchildren.

Left to honor his memory are his children, Selena (Russ) Coyle of Anamosa, Kim Snitker of Springville, and Keaven Jennings of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren, Chad (Kristin) Kryger of Cedar Rapids, James (Sarah) Kryger of Anamosa, and Drew and Haley Snitker of Springville; and great-grandchildren, Noah and Isaac Kryger.  Also surviving are many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene; his parents Enos and Nellis Jennings; and siblings, Charlotte Schave, Donna Jones, John Witt, Jr., Nelda Weaver, and Darlene Haugen.

Shayne Baker

Shayne Robert Baker, 36, of Las Vegas, Nev., died Thursday, July 3, 2014, in Las Vegas.

A memorial service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Palm Mortuary, 1600 S. Jones Blvd., Las Vegas, Nev. Friends may visit with the family from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. before the service.

Locally, the family will receive friends from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, July 17, at West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont, followed by a Celebration of Life at 6:30 p.m.

Born May 6, 1978, in Denver, Colo., Shayne grew up in Iowa before moving to Las Vegas more than 15 years ago.

A U.S. Air Force veteran, he worked as a sales representative in credit card merchant services.

He was the coach of his son’s baseball team, the Vipers.

Survivors include Shayne’s significant other, Michelle Poe; his son, Cody Baker; his parents, Steven and Terri Baker of Clermont; a sister, Carie (Cory) Fisher; and two brothers, Shawn (Shelsea) Baker and J.R. Baker.

To honor Shayne’s dream of one day being a part of his family’s Skip-A-Way Campgrounds in Clermont, memorials in Shayne R. Baker’s name may be directed to Skip-A-Way Campgrounds, P.O. Box 324, Clermont, IA 52135. The memorials will be used to purchase trees for the campgrounds.     28u28

Greg Lauer

Services are pending for Greg Lauer, 52, of West Union.

Greg’s death occurred Monday, July 7, 2014, at his home.

A complete obituary will appear in next week’s Union.

Phyllis Kolar

Phyllis Kolar, 90, of Elgin, died Thursday, June 12, 2014, in Austin, Texas.

Memorial services will be performed at 10 a.m. Friday, July 11, at the Riverbend Church in Austin, Texas.

Willard Holien

Willard Holien, 89, Ossian, Iowa died Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at Ossian Senior Hospice, Ossian, Iowa.

He was born July 23, 1924 to Esther Holien on the Holien family farm in Springfield Township, Winneshiek County, Iowa. He was baptized into the Lutheran faith and confirmed at Ossian Lutheran Church. He attended Country School in Winneshiek County through the 8th grade.

After finishing school, Willard milked cows on his Uncle Seval's farm. In 1945, he started working for Clair Reilly as a machine operator.

On June 24, 1953, Willard was united in marriage with Arletta Heins at the Lutheran Parsonage in McGregor, Iowa.  To this union seven children were born. 

Willard worked for Reilly Construction as a machine operator, project foreman, and shop foreman. Willard retired in 2009 after working for the company for more than 60 years. He was proud to be Reilly’s first employee.

Willard was a member of the Ossian Lutheran Church and served on the church council. He was also a member of Silver Springs Golf and Country Club in Ossian. Willard enjoyed morning coffee at Bambino’s, bowling, fishing, traveling, watching college sports, the Chicago Cubs and the Green Bay Packers.

Willard is survived by his seven children, David (Vicky) Holien of Parker, Colorado; Denis (Margie) Holien of Ossian; Kathy (Dick) Munoz of Des Moines; Kris (David) Berton of Morrison, Colorado; Dan (Sheryl) Holien of Ossian; Darryl (Pam) Holien of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota; and Daren (Kristi Sue) Holien of Calmar; thirteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren; sister-in-law Joyce Heins, Postville, and brother- and sister-in-law Fred and Rose Heins, Cedar Falls.

Willard was preceded in death by his wife, Arletta; his mother, Esther Schroeder; his step-father, Eddie Schroeder; his mother and father-in-law, Harlen and Martha Heins, and his brother-in-law, Hilery Heins.

Visitation will be Friday, July 11, 2014 from 3-7 pm at Ossian Lutheran Church, Ossian, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Services will be at 11 am on Saturday, July 12, 2014 at Ossian Lutheran Church, Ossian, Iowa with Rev. Dave Lenth as the Officiant.

Burial will follow at the Hillside Cemetery, Ossian, Iowa.

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Ossian, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.                   28u28

Dennis Novak

Dennis Lee Novak, 67, of West Union passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at his home.

Dennis was born on April 19, 1947 in Washington, Iowa. He graduated from Washington High School and attended the University of Iowa.

He enjoyed cooking for friends, fishing, gardening, playing dice games, watching westerns and umpiring little league games. He was a member of Celebrate Recovery and was a Friend of Bill W.

A rosary will be held at 9:30 am and services will be at 10 a.m.  on Saturday, July 12, 2014, at Holy Name Catholic Church. Inurnment will follow in Union Cemetery in Aurora, Iowa. (This is the correct day for services. The information provided to The Union and published in the July 9 edition is incorrect).

Dennis is survived by a son and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.      28u28

Loyd Froning

Loyd W. Froning, 79, of Hazleton, Iowa, died Tuesday afternoon, July 8, 2014, at Unity Point-Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa.

Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Friday, July 11, 2014, at the First Baptist Church in Oelwein, Iowa with Rev. Tim Schoepf officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, July 10, 2014, at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein, and after 9:30 A.M. Friday at the church.

Public Masonic Service:  7:30 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home by the Hebron Masonic Lodge #374 A.F. & A.M.

Interment:  Floral Hills Memorial Gardens rural Oelwein, Iowa with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his name to the First Baptist Church, Hebron Masonic Lodge # 374 A.F. & A.M. of Oelwein or Hazleton Veterans Park.

Online Obituary at: www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Loyd William Froning was born on May 15, 1935 at Oelwein, Iowa, the son of Willard H. and Florence D. (Beckner) Froning.  He graduated from Hazleton High School at Hazleton, Iowa in 1953.  Loyd married Patricia Nadine Bridges on May 8, 1955 at the First Baptist Church in Oelwein, Iowa.  He worked at the Donaldson Co. in Oelwein for 41 years as a welder, pressman and on the assembly line retiring in 1996.  Loyd was also a deputy with the Buchanan County Sheriff Department and served on the Hazleton Police Department.  He was a member of the Iowa National Guard for 11 years.  Loyd was a member of the First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, trustee, usher and Sunday school superintendent for many years.  He was a life member of Iowa State Reserve Officer’s Association where he served as president in 1986, National Rifle Association, Delaware Shooting Association, Iowa Police Officers Association, Iowa Association of Chiefs of Police & Peace Officers Association, and the Iowa Combat League.  Loyd was also a member of Hebron Masonic Lodge # 374 A.F. & A.M., where he was currently serving as Worshipful Master, was past president of the #374 Luncheon Club, Hazleton Commercial Club, Hazleton Veterans Park, Hazleton Bloomers Flower Club, Buchanan County Tourism and the Mended Hearts of the Cedar Valley.  He was a former driver for the Northeast Iowa Transit and school bus driver for the Oelwein Community School district.  Loyd enjoyed hunting, fishing, shooting competitions and gardening. 

Loyd is survived by his wife of 59 years, Patricia Froning of Hazleton; son, James Froning of Little Rock, Arkansas; daughter, Joylyn Steinfadt of Atkins; 2 grandchildren, Cathrine Steinfadt (fiancé, Kurt Martinson) of Ames and George Steinfadt of Ames, step-grandson, Brent Parker of West Union;

2 foster grandchildren, Adriana Schults and Alex Schults both of Little Rock, Arkansas; 2 sisters, Helen Turner of Fayette and Jane (Niles) Boehmler of Hawkeye; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 brothers, David Froning in infancy and Gary Lee Froning and John Froning; and a sister, Dorothy Benter.       29u29