Lillian Mahoney

Lillian Irene Mahoney, 89, of Cedar Rapids, died Tuesday March 10, 2015, that would have been her husband’s 100th birthday.

Memorial Service: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at St. Pius X Catholic Church. 

Inurnment: Grandview Cemetery, Fayette.

A prayer service will begin at 3:30 p.m. with visitation concluding at 7 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.

Lillian was born May 22, 1925 in Hawkeye Township, the daughter of John and Harriett (Stevens) Smock.

She attended Fayette Schools for 1 and 2 grade- by horse-drawn sled in winter, Stanley School in 3-5 grades and Lima Country School 6-8 grade.

Her first job was babysitting two children and cleaning for her cousin, Hazel Arnold during the summer. She worked at Johnson’s Café in Fayette for several years.

She married Hugh Benjamin Mahoney on December 22, 1945 in Fayette, Iowa. Two children were born to the couple, Carol Kay, born on December 1, 1946 at home in Fayette and John David, born April 13, 1950 in Oelwein.

The family traveled several states in the central US while Mr. Mahoney pursued work as a millwright-settling in Camanche, Arlington, Clinton, Wadena and Marion in later years.

Lillian worked at the West Union Humphry’s Café, Cedar Rapids Sun Mart Deli, Marion Maid-rite and the office at St. Pius X Catholic were she was also a member.

She enjoyed spending time with her good friend, Anita-who taught her the love and art of Ballroom Dancing and participated in the 2005 Dancesport Classic. She enjoyed spending time with family, planting flowers, bird watching, cleaning her home and cooking. 

On Lillian’s 80 birthday it was time to take her first hot air balloon ride and on her 85 birthday she celebrated at Clearwater Farm in Marion with The Everett Boyer Orchestra.

Lillian enjoyed the many trips to Texas with her friend Pat in the 1990’s and having brandy eggnog in coffee with her grandson-in-law.

She is survived by her daughter, Carol Kay (Phil) Crawford of Marion, grandchildren; Bonnie (Mike) Vrba, Carrie (James) Nordman and Daniel Crawford all of the Cedar Rapids and Marion area, John Mahoney of Boone, Melissa Claud of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Mark Mahoney of Boone, great grandchildren; Jacob Vrba, Kade and Kayla Nordman, Madison and Lily Ann Crawford of Cedar Rapids and Marion and Riley, Jarret, Makala and Kelcey Elizabeth of Boone.

Also surviving are nieces and nephews; Debbie, Denise, David, Gordon Joe, Scott, Lisa, Tina, Peggy, John Jr., Larry, Billy, Steve and Bradley. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Hugh Mahoney, her son, John Mahoney and wife Betty, her granddaughter, Elizabeth, her sister, Mary and brothers; John Jr., Gordon, Rodney and Harold, and nephews, Mark and Darrin.

Memorials may be made to Disabled Veterans in memory of Lillian.     11u11

Dennis Bumgardner

Dennis LeRoy Bumgardner passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at Covenant Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa.

Dennis was born on November 26, 1944 to William and Celeste (Hasbrouck) Bumgardner at the hospital in Charles City, Iowa.

He was baptized on December 10, 1944 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greene, Iowa and he was confirmed in Council Bluffs, Iowa. 

Dennis graduated from Fayette High School in 1963. After high school, he attended Upper Iowa University and an auto body trade school.

On October 11, 1964 Dennis was united in marriage to Iva Feller at St. Francis Catholic Church in Fayette, Iowa.

Dennis worked as an auto body repairman and insurance salesman.

Dennis was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sumner and the Hawkeye Lions Club. He served on the Hawkeye city council for many years.

Dennis enjoyed fishing, attending races, and going to his grandchildren’s many activities. He had a passion for music, especially playing the saxophone.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Iva of Hawkeye; two children, Dion (Amy) Bumgardner of Hawkeye and Dawn (Ken) Heitzman of Marion; five grandchildren, Brett (Molly) Bumgardner, Michael Bumgardner, Randi Sue Bumgardner, Adelynn Heitzman, and Genavieve Heitzman; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Wilma and Berdine; and three brothers, Bernard, Galen, and Wilbur.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 am on Friday, March 13, 2015 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sumner with the Rev. Jim Brokman officiating.

Burial followed in Hawkeye Cemetery.

A public visitation was held from 4 pm until 7 pm on Thursday, March 12, 2015 at S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in Sumner with a scripture services held at 6:30 pm.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home of Sumner was in charge of the arrangements.     11u11

George Wander

George John Wander, 93, of Postville, Iowa died Tuesday, March 10, 2015 at the Good Samaritan Center, Postville, Iowa.

George was born on the family farm in Castalia, Bloomfield Township of Winneshiek County, Iowa on June 20, 1921 to John and Christina (Michel) Wander.

He was baptized at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian, Iowa.

He received his education in the area schools.

George was drafted into service for World War II in 1942, receiving his honorable discharge in January 1946. He spent most of his service time in South Pacific regions of New Guinea and Borneo. After returning from service George helped his father on the farm.

George was united in marriage with Caroline Mueller on August 20, 1946 at West Clermont Lutheran Church by Pastor A. O. Nesset. To this union, two daughters were born, Suzanne and Debra.

George and Caroline farmed the family farm for 37½ years. George was proud of farming without the use chemicals. In 1983 they moved to Postville.

George was always proud to have served his country, always showing great respect for our flag. He and Caroline attended and enjoyed the many Army reunions with the families of his company.

George enjoyed traveling, anything nature and playing cards. His family was important to him.

George is survived by his wife, Caroline of Postville; daughter, Debra (Fred Schneider) Soppe of Elgin and his grandchildren, Darryl (Jessica) Merrick of San Gabriel, California, Jason (Lori) Merrick of Princeton, Kentucky, Jennifer Merrick of Louisville, Kentucky and Derick (fiancée, Erica Brucculeri) Soppe of Greenfield Center, New York.

George was preceded in death by his daughter, Suzanne Merrick in 1999; his parents, John and Christina Wander; brothers, Joe, Jake, Phil and Lloyd and sister, Margaret Schweinefus.

Visitation was on Friday, March 13, 2015 from 4-6 pm at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Postville, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Services were at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 14, 2015 at Zion Lutheran Church, Castalia, Iowa with Rev. Alan Wicks as the Officiant.

Burial followed at Pleasant View Cemetery, Castalia, Iowa with Military Rites.

Memorials may be made in George’s honor to Zion Lutheran Church, Postville Ambulance, or the Ossian American Legion.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Postville, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.               11u11

Kenneth White

Kenneth, A. White died Wednesday, March 11, 2015, surrounded by his family at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.

Funeral services were held Saturday, March 15, at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco.

Burial with Military Rites was in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Cresco.

  Kenneth was born October 31, 1914 in Brooks Iowa to Alfred and Eva (Hardesty) White. At a young age his parents moved the family to rural Howard County, near Cresco. From there, Ken grew to adulthood alongside his three brothers and little sister. Ken helped with the family farm operation before venturing out on his own. 

Ken served in the US Army during WWII spending time in New Guinea, the Philippines and Puerto Rico. He climbed to the rank of sergeant and was considered an “expert machine gunner”.

  Ken and Lillian were married on October 17^th, 1949. Into the marriage, Lil brought with her one son, Robert Linderman and together they had a son, Roger Allen.

He remained a farmer until retiring at the age of 72.

During retirement he replaced farming with garden, which were always large.

In the mid-1990s Ken and Lilly relocated to Hawkeye, Iowa to be closer to the grandkids.

Along with hard working, Ken was a simple, quiet and humble, yet proud, man. He was astute with a keen sense of intelligence, sharp wit and remarkable sense of humor. Though life was serious business, he didn’t take things too seriously, never “sweating the small stuff.”

Ken never passed up the opportunity to lend a hand, partake in a friendly conversation or play a game of cards. He never met anyone who did not become a quick friend. Ken had an uncanny way of attuning himself to every person he engaged with. People, along with their stories, quite simply mattered to him. Those individuals, who were fortunate enough to meet up with Ken along life’s path, were met with a hearty hello and a reluctant good bye. One could not help but walk away feeling appreciated and knowing that they were both “seen and heard.”

Kenneth is survived by his son Roger, daughter-in-law Tammy; granddaughters Richelle (Thomas), Nicolette (Daryl), Renessa (Ryan), Michelle (Adan), Kelly Rae (Adam) and Brenda, an abundance of great grandchildren, his much loved sister-in-law Josephine, numerous nieces and nephews, countless friends, including a few exceptional Maple Crest caregivers (who know who they are), and a rich legacy of love.

He was preceded in death by his wife Lillian, son Robert, parents Alfred and Eva, brothers Howard, Harold and Russell, sister Maxine, and several sisters and brothers-in-law.            11u11

LaVerle (Knapp) Dake

Auburn native LaVerle Maxine (Knapp) Dake of Cedar Rapids, also formerly of Arlington, died Saturday, March 14, 2015.

A memorial service is being held at 1 p.m. today (Wednesday) at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services in Cedar Rapids.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Karol Helgerson

Karol Ann Helgerson, 71, of West Union, Iowa passed away suddenly doing what she loved most, caring for people, on March 8^th 2015.

A funeral service was held at 4 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder.

  Burial followed in the church cemetery.

Karol Ann, the daughter of Gilbert & Bessie (Larson) Loftsgard was born on February 4^th 1944 at home.

She was baptized on April 4^th 1944 & confirmed on May 26^th 1958 at Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder Iowa.

She attended Country School until the 8^th grade & then attended Valley High School.

She had many hobbies she loved spending time with family, her job at the Good Sam Center, was an avid Hawkeye Fan, big fan of NASCAR especially #88, she was an amazing cook because she loved cooking for her family, feeding her squirrels, tending to and watching her beautiful flowers in her front yard, loved her trips to Arizona to see her second family and most of all she loved helping people.

She is survived by her kids, Kim (Bill Miller) Woltzen of West Union, Kevin (Lynn) Helgerson of Eldorado, Connie (Brent Mitchell) Lauer of Hawkeye, & Adam (Lyndee Gage) Helgerson of Hawkeye. Her Grandchildren, Aaron (Kristine) Woltzen of Kensett, Tristia Woltzen of West Union, Holli Woltzen of West Union, Trent (Valleen) Woltzen of West Union, Tanner Miller of Waucoma, Andrew Helgerson of Eldorado, Nick (Hannah Stanbrough) Lauer of Waucoma, Nathan (Kate Strief) Lauer of Waucoma, Ashlee (Michael Williams) Lauer of West Union, Aleisha Lauer of Hawkeye, Justin Helgerson of Hawkeye, Kendra Helgerson of Ankeny, Matthew Helgerson of Hawkeye, Morgan (Samantha) Gage of Waucoma, Ashlee (Jamie) Solheim of Randalia, and Logan (Hailey Vrzak) Gage of Lawler. Great-Grandkids Noah & Ava Woltzen of Kensett, Brian & Claire Schroeder of West Union, Shara Ungs of Charles City, Emma & Rylee Vagts of West Union, Tyson & Chace Williams of West Union, Joshua & Baby Girl Lauer of Hawkeye, Nevaeh Solheim of Randalia, and Haven Gage of Waucoma. A brother Ronnie (Judy) Loftsgard of Elgin and a sister in law Catherine Loftsgard of Elgin. Several nieces & nephews, great nieces & nephews and special neighbors Gordy (Audrey) Winter of West Union.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Kenna in 2012, two brothers Bernard & Charlie Loftsgard, two nephews Larry & Bernard Jr Loftsgard.      11u11

Ann Durnan

Ann Marie Durnan, 44, of Arlington, Iowa died on Sunday, March 15, 2015 at her home.

Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Friday, March 20, 2015 at the Calvary Bible Church in Volga, Iowa.

Visitation: 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, March 19, 2015 at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Arlington, Iowa and after 9:30 A.M. on Friday at the church.

Inurnment: At a later date at the Wadena Cemetery, Wadena, Iowa.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Ann Marie Durnan was born November 11, 1970 in Waterloo, Iowa, the daughter of Michael James and Bonnie June (Hess) Durnan.  She graduated from the Wadena Christian Academy in 1989.  Ann was employed at several nursing homes in the area as a CNA.  Most recently she had been volunteering at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.  She was a member of the Calvary Bible Church in Volga, Iowa.  Ann enjoyed crafts, baking, cooking, canning, making hats for the Cedar Valley Cancer Center, her cats and spending time with her family.

Ann is survived by her father, Michael Durnan of Arlington;

2 brothers, Donald Dales of Waterloo and

Nicholas Hess of Oklahoma;

2 sisters, Rhonda Dales (Robert Schott) of Clermont and

Grace Durnan of Arlington;

several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, aunts, uncles and many cousins; and her fur babies, Bentlee and Kirby.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Nicholas and Eva Hess and Leo and Grace Durnan, Sr.; mother, Bonnie Durnan; and  2 brothers, Robert Dales and David Dales.

Marcus Espey

Marcus Espey, 56, of Fayette, died Sunday, March 15, 2015, at his home in Fayette. Services are pending at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette. Please check www.beckermilnesrettig.com for further information or call (563)-578-3451.

Carole (Tangen) Wendlandt

Carole B. Wendlandt, age 78, of Mabel, a former elementary school teacher, died Sunday, March 8, 2015 at the Gundersen Hospital in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.

Carole Bertha (Tangen) Wendlandt was born November 16, 1936 in Winneshiek County, the daughter of Otto and Elsie (Tinderholt) Tangen. 

She was confirmed at Decorah Lutheran Church. 

Carole attended rural elementary school in Canoe Township, Decorah.  She graduated from Decorah High School in 1955, and went on to attend Luther College for a two-year Elementary Degree, finishing her Bachelor of Arts degree at Winona College while teaching in Mabel, Minnesota. 

Her teaching career began in Mabel and continued until retiring in 1992.

Carole was united in marriage to Donald Wendlandt in December 1960 at Stavanger Lutheran Church in Ossian.

She was a very active member of Stavanger Lutheran, holding various offices such as WELCA president, Mission and Stewardship Committee, teaching Sunday School, and mentoring of young people in the congregation.

For many years Carole and Don enjoyed welcoming exchange students from Mexico and the area surrounding Mabel, into their home forming life-long relationships.

Carole is survived by sisters-in-law Ruth (Thomas) Schultz of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and Linda Ender of Tennessee; brother-in-law Carl Wendlandt of Pennsylvania; sister-in-law Norma Wendlandt of Texas; brother-in-law Gary Hastings of Nebraska; several cousins; three godchildren Amy Lage of Postville, Iowa, Jon Young of Decorah, Iowa, and Stacy Vollands of Scotland; and her wonderful family from Mexico.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Donald.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 AM Friday, March 13, 2015 at the Stavanger Lutheran Church in rural Ossian, Iowa with Irmgard and Rev. Wayne Ellingson officiating. 

Burial was in the Stavanger Cemetery.

Visitation was from 5 – 7 PM Thursday, March 12 at the Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel and one hour prior to services at the church.  11u11

Howard Wangsness

Howard Ove Wangsness, 90, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at the Winneshiek Medical Center, Decorah, Iowa. 

He was born February 13, 1925 to John E. and Johanna (Strand) Wangsness in Springfield Township, Iowa.

Howard attended Lee Country School. 

He was united in marriage to Verna Torkelson on September 15, 1950 at First Lutheran Church in West Union, Iowa.  To this union, two children were born, Robert and Julie.

Howard was a Farmer, Deputy Assessor for Winneshiek County and a Marigold Milk Delivery Man.

He lived on the family farm for eighty-six years of his ninety years. He enjoyed traveling with Verna and woodworking. He had a love for cars and tractors, but most of all, Howard enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. 

He was a member of the South Winneshiek School Board, Lutheran Brotherhood Regional Board and was a Trinity Lutheran Church Trustee and Charter Member.   

Howard is survived by his loving wife of sixty-four years, Verna Wangsness of Ossian, Iowa; two children; Robert (Mary) Wangsness of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Julie (Ted) Schneider of Prescott, Wisconsin; one granddaughter, Danielle (Ryan Beck) Wangsness of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; three great-grandchildren, Nolan, Cade and Harper; one brother, Kenneth (Ila) Wangsness of Allison, Iowa; one sister, Joanne Egge of Decorah, Iowa; four sisters-in-law, Norma Wangsness of Decorah, Iowa, Georgia Snyder of Decorah, Iowa, Sharon Wangsness of Allison, Iowa and Daune (Dave) McCulloch of Qunicy, Illinois and ten nephews and nine nieces.

Howard is preceded in death by one grandson, Thomas Wangsness; his parents, John and Johanna Wangsness; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Lester and Edna Torkelson; his two brothers, Willis and John Wangsness; one sister, Virginia Snyder; one sister-in-law, Dorothy Torkelson and four brothers-in-law, Roy Snyder, Gil Egge, Leslie Torkelson and Loren “Butch” Weselmann.

Visitation was on Friday, March 20, 2015 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Ossian, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Services were at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 21, 2015 at Calmar Lutheran Church, Calmar, Iowa with Rev. Jesse   DeDeyne as the Officiant.

Burial followed at Calmar City Cemetery, Calmar, Iowa.

Condolences may be left for the family at: www.graufuneralhomes.com

The family requests all memorials be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Calmar, Iowa.

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Ossian, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.         12u12

Marcus Espey

Marcus W. Espey, 56, of Fayette, died Sunday, March 15, 2015, at his home in Fayette.

Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 19, 2015, at the Fayette Community Church with Pastor Carl Tenney officiating.

Interment followed at Grandview Cemetery in Fayette.

Friends called from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 18 at the church and for one hour prior to the services at the church on Thursday.

Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette assisted the Espey family.

Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com

Marcus William, son of Elmer K. and Edna Marie Jungers Espey, was born April 16, 1958, at Estherville, Iowa.

After moving with his family to Spencer, he graduated from Spencer High School, and later from Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville.

On May 21, 1983, he was united in marriage with Tammy Johnson at Napoleon, Missouri.

Marcus had been employed for many years by the State of Iowa as an IT specialist II.

He also enjoyed computers in his leisure time, as well as fishing, hunting, motorcycle riding, target shooting, but most of all enjoyed the time spent with his grandbabies.

In addition to his wife, Tammy of Fayette, he is survived by three daughters, Lindsey Espey of Waterloo, Ashley (Anthony) Reisner of Hazelton, and Rebecca (Joshua) Tegeler of Maynard; three grandchildren, Aubree Espey, Lydia Tegeler, and Jaden Espey; two brothers, Elmer “Butch” (Peggy) Espey of Byron, Minnesota and Joseph Espey of Spencer; two sisters, Helen Walker of Spencer and Shirley (Eldon) Gillmore of Martelle; and several nieces and nephews.

Marcus was preceded in death by his parents; a stillborn brother, Gerald Joseph; and his wife’s parents, David and Mary Johnson.    12u12

Tom Barker

Thomas “Tom” William Barker passed away at the age of 91 on Sunday, March 22, 2015 at the Good Samaritan Society in West Union.

Tom was born on February 14, 1924 in Brainard, Iowa to William and Grace (Boyer) Barker.

He attended grade school in Elgin and Columbus High in Waterloo.

Tom left to join the military during World War II.

On June 15, 1957 he was united in marriage to Donna Thompson at St. Olaf Church in West Union.

He worked on road construction and surveying for Fayette County before going to work for Frana Distributing in Calmar. Later, Tom went to work for and eventually retired from Atwood in West Union.

He was a member of American Legion Post 15 and Redeemer Lutheran Church both of West Union.

Tom enjoyed card games, dancing and reading. He was very active and continued to play fast pitch softball until age 55.

He is survived by his wife, Donna of West Union; two sons, Larry (Laurie) Barker of Postville and Jay Barker of West Union; four grandchildren, Krysta (Mitchell) Wheeler, Katrina Barker, Victoria Barker and Andrew Barker; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Wes and Kenny; and two sisters, Marge Boyle and Evelyn Matt.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in West Union with the Rev. Rusty Phillips officiating.

Burial with military honors will follow at West Union Cemetery.

A public visitation was to be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2015 from 4-7 pm at Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in West Union, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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Helen Molumby

Funeral services were held Monday, March 30, 2015 at 10:30am in Holy Name Catholic Church, West Union, Iowa for Helena (Helen) Josephine (Hinsenbrock) Molumby, 95, who died at Palmer Memorial Hospital West Union on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 after a brief illness. 

The funeral Mass was celebrated by Rev. Jim Brokman and Rev. Dale Rausch at Holy Name Catholic Church. 

Burial was in Mount Calvary Cemetery, West Union.

Pallbearers were grandchildren, Matt J. Molumby, Ken Suzuki, David Molumby, Matthew Molumby, Jordan Pollock, and Hunter Reeves. 

Honorary Pallbearers were: Valerie (Recker) Radner, Joji Suzuki, Michael Molumby, and Ben Reeves. 

Music was furnished by: vocalist, grandson Eli Pollock.

Helen (Hinsenbrock) Molumby was born in her West Union farm home on March 4, 1920, the youngest daughter to the Herman & Rose Hinsenbrock family of six daughters and one adopted son. 

Helen attended country school outside of West Union and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Guttenberg, Iowa in 1936.  She attended St. Theresa’s College in Winona, Minnesota and Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa earning her teaching degree.  She taught Business Education & Spanish in Tama, Iowa and also taught Business and Typing in the West Union High School.

She was married to Dr. Matthew Joseph “M.J.” Molumby, long-time West Union Dentist, in 1947.  To this union, seven children were born, including two sets of twins. 

She was a lifetime member of Holy Name Catholic Church, West Union; Rosary Society and Catholic Daughters.  She served her church in many roles, including distributing communion, teaching religion classes, and RCIA classes.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. M.J. Molumby, son Thomas Molumby, daughter Joan (Mrs. Scott) Pollock, and granddaughters Kristine Jo and Elizabeth Ann Molumby, twin daughters of Joe & Sandy Molumby.

Survivors include: five of seven children: Mary (Mrs. Loran) Recker, Charles City; Therese (Mrs. Mikio) Suzuki, Macon, GA; Joe, (Sandy) Molumby, Chippewa Falls, WI; John (Cathy) Molumby, Elgin, IA; Beth (Molumby) Reeves, Stillwater, MN; 20 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

Helen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose passion included her church and family.  She loved gardening, laughing, and making many special memories with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

S.K. Rogers & Burnham-Wood Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.          13u13

Larry Schult

Larry Dean Schult of Maynard died Tuesday, March 24, 2015, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

He was born Oct 6, 1942 to Lester and Regina (Hehmke) Schult on rural farm near Westgate, IA.

Attended Rural Country School and graduated from North High School.

He worked on the family farm and was an equipment set-up person, worked road construction, sold Fuller Brush Products, owned a corn dryer business, sold radio ads for KWAY in Waverly, IA and for KCTN/KADR of Elkader, IA, then retired in 2006.

He married Linda Kohlmeyer; they later divorced.

Then on Oct 6, 1969, he married Sandra (Smith) Heinemeyer.

Larry is survived by his children Rodney (Denise) Schult of Finchford, IA; Randy (Elaine) Schult of Janesville, IA; Tim (Tonja) Schult of Joshua, TX; Michael (Mindy) Heinemeyer of Maynard, IA; Pamela Lawson of Sumner, IA. Also survived by 2 grandchildren and 10 step grandchildren, and many great grandchildren.

There will be no services at the request of the deceased.

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Elizabeth Schaer

Elizabeth May Schaer was welcomed to her heavenly home by her Savior and Friend on April 1, 2015, at the age of 101.

Elizabeth (Betty) was born on May 2, 1913 at the family home near Elgin, Iowa.  She was the second child of Alfred and Marie (Miller) Jacob. Betty grew up on the Jacob farm between Elgin and Clermont, Iowa. 

She attended the Bell Creek Country School and graduated from Clermont High School with the Class of 1930. A summer school course at Upper Iowa University qualified her to teach country school, first at Bell Creek School near Elgin, Iowa and then at Windsor #3 near Hawkeye, Iowa.  Her love for teaching was a constant throughout her life.

She attended First Baptist Church with her parents as an infant.  Betty accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior at the age of ten, was baptized and became a member of the Church that she served for over 100 years. She faithfully taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School from her teen years to late in life.

Betty first met John Schaer when his parents brought six-month old Johnny to visit the new baby at the Jacob home. Growing up, they shared life at First Baptist Church and as family friends. They were married at the Jacob home on the morning of September 8, 1936. They became the parents of three daughters, Marilyn, Dorothy, and Jean.

Her interest and skill in gardening and sewing provided an outlet for her generous and gentle spirit to serve those around her. Produce from her garden and canned goods were often shared as gifts.  Baskets of summer flowers regularly added beauty to the Sunday morning worship service. These flowers then became gifts of encouragement to many or placed at a gravesite to honor the memory of a loved one.

Her love of sewing clothing for her children and family in the early days, later included quilting and making countless novelty rugs and pillows. Betty headed the White Cross Ministry at First Baptist for many years, personally sewing baby jackets, diapers, and rolling bandages for use in hospitals in Cameroon and Nigeria.

Mourning her passing are her daughters, Marilyn Schaer, Elgin, IA and Jean (Marcos) Orellana, Pasadena, CA; granddaughters, Valerie (Joshua) Massie, Salem, OR, and Jamie (Robin) Orellana-Willis, Pasadena, CA; great-grandchildren Daniel and Ava Massie and Luke and Faith Willis; brother, Alfred (Christabel) Jacobs, Jr., Fergus Falls, MN; fifteen nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

Elizabeth was preceded in death by John, her husband of 62 years, on April 25, 1999; daughter, Dorothy on June 7, 1984; her parents; sister, Lillian (Arbie) Schroeder; and brothers, Lloyd (Laura) Jacob, and Leon (Ruth) Jacob.

Visitation will be Friday, April 10, 2015 from 4- 7 pm at the Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa.

The Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 11, 2015 at the First Baptist Church, Elgin, Iowa.

Burial will be prior to the service at 10:00 am, at Elgin Cemetery, Elgin, Iowa.

Condolences may be left with: www.graufuneralhomes.com.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.      14u14

Marge Brehme

Marge Brehme, 75, of Arlington, Iowa died on Saturday afternoon, April 4, 2015 at the Good Samaritan Care Center in West Union.

Funeral Service:  10:30 A.M. Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at St. John Lutheran Church, Arlington with Rev. Ron Roberts officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Tuesday at Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Arlington and for one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday.

Interment:  Wadena Cemetery, Wadena, Iowa.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Marjorie Ann Larson was born on August 27, 1939 in Ossian, Iowa, the daughter of Leonard & Mildred (Bert) Larson, Sr. 

She received her education from the West Union Schools. 

Marge was united in marriage to Jerome Keith “Jerry” Brehme on January 30, 1955 in Ossian, Iowa.  The couple farmed at West Union and Westgate until they moved to the family farm near Wadena in 1966. 

In 1970 they started Brehme Construction.  Marge worked in the business with Jerry until his death on September 28, 1993 and then continued to work with her sons.  In 1994 Marge started to work at Charley’s Gas Gage in Wadena and then managed the store until she retired in 2011. 

Marge moved to Arlington in March of 1995 where she was able to share 20 years with her longtime companion, Charley Daisy. 

Marge was formerly a member of the Land Improvement Contractors Association and the Experimental Aircraft Association.  She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington. 

Marge enjoyed dancing, fishing and reading.  She loved her family dearly but her family all knew to never call Marge during her favorite shows, Wheel of Fortune and Days of Our Lives!

Left to cherish her memory are her Companion: Charley Daisy of Arlington; Son: Steven Brehme of Wadena; 2 Daughters:  Julie (Scott) Torkelson of Elkport & Mary Olson of Wadena; Daughter-in-law:  Brenda Sue Brehme of Wadena; 18 Grandchildren; 39 Great Grandchildren; 1 Great Great Granddaughter; Siblings:  Robert (Gayle) Larson of Abilene, Texas, Leonard (Roselie) Larson, Jr. of West Union, Louis (Jeanie) Larson of St. Ignatius, Montana, Marilyn (Verly) Pollow of Waterloo, Jim (Betty) Larson of West Union & Wayne (Janice) Larson of Fayette and many Nieces & Nephews.

Marge was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Jerry on September 28, 1993, 4 children: Jeffery and Rochelle as infants, Kurt on December 1, 2003 and Louis on March 11, 2013, 3 grandsons: Jeremiah Moore, Shawn Brehme and Jerry Brehme and a son-in-law: Rodger Loomis.       14u14

Ione Dennler

Ione Dennler, 85, of Elgin, Iowa died Monday, March 30, 2015 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota.

Borghild Ione, the daughter of William and Luella (Benson) Torkelson, was born September 21, 1929 on the family farm in Clayton County, Iowa.  After Ione’s mother, Luella, passed away in 1934, she lived with her aunts and uncles until her father married Elsie Butikofer in 1938. 

Ione graduated from Elgin High School in 1947 and received her teacher certification from Upper Iowa College in Fayette. 

She taught in a country school near Volga, Iowa until she was united in marriage with Albert Lee Dennler on September 26, 1948 at Highland Lutheran Church, rural Elkader, Iowa. 

Albert and Ione farmed southeast of Elgin for many years.  After Albert’s death on November 30, 2010, Ione continued to live on the farm until 2013.  She then moved to Stony Brook Village in West Union, Iowa.

Ione was a longtime member of Highland Lutheran Church and the Ladies Aid, the Good Neighbor Club, and the Elgin Historical Society. She was also very proud of her Norwegian heritage. 

Ione was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Her family was very important to her and she loved spending time with them.  She was an excellent cook and baker.  She enjoyed gardening, buying things for her grandchildren at garage sales, especially Christmas trees and nativity scenes, and her Sunday afternoon drives with Al.

Ione is survived by her daughters, Kathy (Joel) Gabrielson of Story City, Iowa; Marcia (Larry) Miles of Elgin, Iowa; and Susan (Dan) Winter of West Union, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Sherri (Ron) Imoehl, Kristi (Jeff) Shoultz, Stephanie Ward, John Christopher (Jessica) Ward, Joseph Winter, Katelyn Winter, Jeff (Emilee) Gabrielson, and Sara (Shane) Tofteberg; eight great-grandchildren, Madison, Brennan, and Chase Imoehl; Jillian and Lauren Shoultz, Zachary Gabrielson, and Caroline and Vivian Ward; and two brothers, Sylvan (Mary) Torkelson and William Torkelson, both of Elgin, Iowa.

Ione was preceded in death by her husband, Albert and her sister, Amy Lou Olesen.

Visitation was on Wednesday, April 1, 2015 from 4-7 pm at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

Funeral Services were at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at Highland Lutheran Church, rural Elkader, Iowa with Rev. Jerome Godson as the Officiant.

Burial was at 1:30 pm on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at Illyria Cemetery, rural Elgin, Iowa.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.         14u14

Russell Wenger

Russell Wayne Wenger, 90, of Elkader, formerly of Elgin, died Tuesday, March 31, 2015, at Central Community Hospital, Elkader.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 13, at Elgin Lutheran Church, Elgin.

Interment with military honors will be held at the Elgin Cemetery, Elgin.

Visitation will be 2-5 p.m. Sunday, April 12, at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Elgin. There will also be a one-hour visitation before services at the church on Monday.  

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elgin is helping the family with the arrangements. 

Dawn Dean

Dawn Dean, 95, of Clermont died Thursday, April 2, 2015, at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette.

Services were held Tuesday, April 7.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Clermont was in charge of arrangements.