Funeral held for 1971 North High graduate 

Funeral services for David C. Swale, 60, of West Union were held Thursday, July 11, at United Methodist Church in West Union with the Rev. Chris Ebbers officiating.

Burial followed in the West Union Cemetery.

Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home, West Union, was in charge of the arrangements.

Dave’s death occurred on Friday, July 5, 2013.

David Charles “Dave” Swale was born July 2, 1953, in Washington, D.C., to Robert and Marie (Aue) Swale. 

He graduated from North High School in 1971.

On July 7, 1998, Dave was united in marriage with Janis Enyart in Oelwein. 

He worked for 34 years at John Falb Motor Company in West Union, running the auto body shop.

Dave then attended Kirkwood Community College, where he earned a truck driver’s certificate in 2003. He hauled grain for Jim Ihde Trucking and Hartlow Trucking, both in Hawkeye. He was currently employed as a semi operator for Bruening Rock Products in Decorah.

Dave served on the West Union ambulance service for 14 years.

He was a longtime member of United Methodist Church of West Union. 

He was an avid bowler with the Barrel Drive In bowling team, often attending state bowling competitions. 

Dave was also an all-time points champion (4485) at the Fayette County Speedway, where he raced his #56 car. He raced for over 20 years locally with great success.

In his leisure time, Dave enjoyed racing, camping and traveling with his wife, Janis, bowling, bingo, and collecting pieces of West Union history. Recently he enjoyed watching backyard birds. He was a devoted family member with a kind heart and open arms. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor, sharing jokes and pranks at every opportunity.

Dave will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert; a daughter, Wendy Swale; a sister, Judy Jones Vint; and his father-in-law, Donald Enyart.

Dave is survived by his mother, Marie Swale of West Union; his wife, Janis, of West Union; a son, Ryan (Christin) Swale of Dubuque; four stepchildren, Denise (Joshua) Hagen of Cedar Rapids, Dawn (Christopher) Lambert of Edmond, Okla., John Marreel of Osage, and Jacqueline (Steven) Blank of Mason City; six grandchildren, Ethan Swale, Dakota Hagen, Tyler Hagen, Joy Hagen, Evan Lambert and John Blank,

Also surviving are a brother, Thomas E. (Stephanie) Swale of Sarasota, Fla.; his mother-in-law, Sara Enyart of Postville; numerous other family members and friends.

Doris Gibson of Wadena dies July 10

Doris J. Gibson, 68, of Wadena died Wednesday, July 10, 2013, after a four-year battle with breast cancer.

No services were held. An inurnment will be held at a later date.

Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home, West Union, is in charge of the arrangements.

Doris Jean (Nickerson) Gibson was born April 3, 1945, in Tuscaloosa, Ala., to Francis and Tommie Jean Nickerson. 

Later she moved to Iowa, where she met and married Monte Joe Gibson. They farmed and raised their four children near Wadena.

Doris loved life and spending time with Joe, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She never met a stranger, and she will be remembered for the fun, loving spirit she shared with everyone she encountered. Her humor, the stories she told, her creativity, and her ability to turn a weekend gathering into a Mardi Gras bash will be treasured memories.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Madison Gibson; her parents-in-law, Earl and Leona Gibson; and a brother-in-law.

She is survived by her husband, Monte Joe Gibson of Wadena; her children, Tina (Sean) Persinger of Auburn, Wanda (Ray) Stepan of Eldorado, Steve (Julie) Gibson of Ossian, and J Breyon (Mary) Gibson of Independence; nine grandchildren, Jesse, Brad (Mariah), Curtis (Keri), Jakob, Jodee, Brittany, Mersadie, Jordan and Alisha; five great-grandchildren; a sister, Laura Edwards of Alabama; a brother, Joe Nickerson of Nevada, Ia.; several brothers- and sister-in laws; and her very special friend, Carol Moore.

Graveside services held Sunday in Elgin

Linda J. Johnson, 66, of West Union, formerly of Elgin, died Sunday, July 7, 2013, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City. 

A graveside memorial service was held Sunday, July 14, at the Elgin Cemetery, Elgin, with the Rev. Chris Ebbers as the officiant.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, assisted the family with arrangements.

Born Feb. 18, 1947, in Postville, Linda was the daughter of Dale and Marie (Erhardt) DeSart. 

She graduated from Valley High School in 1965.

On Aug. 21, 1966, Linda and Ernie Johnson were united in marriage in Strawberry Point. They lived in Bad Hersfeld, West Germany, for a few years while Ernie was in the service.  They were later divorced.

Following the divorce Linda moved back to West Union, where she worked as a legal secretary for the Estes, Antes and Allbee Law Firm for 25 years until 2002, when disability forced her into retirement. 

Linda was a member of United Methodist Church in West Union, the Elgin Historical Society, and Patterson Cemetery. 

She enjoyed reading, cats, her computer, and joyriding on her scooter around West Union. She was an avid NASCAR fan and loved to visit friends. 

Linda’s parents preceded her in death.

She is survived by her daughter, Kristine (Jamie) Koenigs of Stacyville; four grandchildren, Colton (fiancée Amber Kern) Rader of Osage, Jordon Rader of Stacyville, Hayley (Nick) Pettey of Okinawa, Japan, and Bryn Koenigs of Stacyville; a great-grandson; and numerous cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Linda’s name ma

Services held for former area PSAS director

Mary C. Flynn, 71, of Oelwein died Thursday afternoon, July 11, 2013, at her home, surrounded by her family.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 16, at Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein, with Robert Flynn presiding.

Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Oelwein.

Arrangements were handled by Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein.

Mary Celeste (Kelly) Flynn was born July 23, 1941, in Benson, Minn., to Howard William and Catherine Esther (McGovern) Kelly. 

She graduated from Murdock High School in Murdock, Minn., in 1959.  

On June 30, 1962, Mary married her childhood sweetheart, John Patrick Flynn, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock, Minn.  

She worked as a secretary for 10 years in the Twin Cities.  

Mary mentored her growing children as the family moved from Morrison, Ill., to Harlan, Ia., and then to Oelwein.  

During that time she began taking college classes in Sterling, Ill., Council Bluffs, Ia., and then at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in humanities in 1985.  

In 1986 Mary volunteered at Parent Share and Support for a year and then became the Oelwein Area PSAS director for nine years.  As the director of PSAS, Mary wrote and directed an Iowa Department of Education grant that changed the face of parent education in Fayette County.  These programs included Parent as Teachers, Toy Lending Library, Teen Parent Support Program, and many other services.  It was Mary’s vision that opened Family Centers in Oelwein and West Union, which continue to serve hundreds of area families.  

In 1995, John and Mary moved to Hampton for three years.  

Mary worked as the Head Start program supervisor for three centers in Mason City. 

The couple then moved to Pine, Ariz., for three years before returning to Oelwein in 2001.  

Mary previously was a member of the Little Husky Childcare and Preschool Board of Directors and the Oelwein Business and Professional Women’s Club. 

She enjoyed reading and spending time with her family.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Theresa Louise Kelly and Catherine Kelly Quinn; and an infant brother, Joseph Earl Kelly.

Mary is survived by her husband, John Flynn of Oelwein; a daughter, Colleen (Dave) Irvine of Stanley; a son, Jason Flynn of Oelwein; three grandchildren, Benjamin and MacKenzie Irvine of Stanley and Dalton Flynn of Oelwein.

Additional survivors include three sisters, Virginia (Edward) White of Windom, Minn., Rose Kelly of Roseville, Minn., Teresa (Jack) Dahl of Willmar, Minn.; two brothers, John (Pam) Kelly of Murdock, Minn., and Frank (Elaine) Kelly of Hastings, Minn.; many nieces and nephews.

A memorial fund in Mary Flynn’s name has been established for Parent Share & Support, Cedar Valley Hospice, Oelwein Community Kitchen Cupboard, and the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Rochester, Minn.

Gene Skultety of Fayette dies July 16

Gene P. Skultety, 66, of Fayette died Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at his home.

No services are planned at this time.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family.

Gene Paul Skultety was born June 19, 1947, at St. Mary of Nazareth Hospital in Chicago, Ill., to Eugene and MaryLou (Ferguson) Skultety.

He proudly served his country as an ammo and inventory clerk in the United States Army from 1967 until 1969. During his service he earned his GED from the United States Armed Forces Institute - European Branch.

On Aug. 18, 1973, Gene was united in marriage with Suzan Worth in Bensenville, Ill. To this union, three children were born. The couple were later divorced. 

Gene later met Lynda Walkup, and the couple made their home in Fayette in 1995. 

He had worked as a quality control engineer for Eagle Ottawa Tannery in Waterloo, Triangle Plastics in Independence, and Atwood Automotive in West Union. 

Gene enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his father and a sister, Corinne. 

Survivors include his mother, MaryLou Skultety; his special friend, Lynda Walkup; three children, Colleen Skultety of Santa Monica, Calif., Preston (Brianne) Skultety of Wonderlake, Ill., and Eric Skultety of Oakland, Calif.; a stepdaughter, Frances (Philip) Whaley of Peru, Ill.; a grandson, Everrett Eugene; three stepgranddaughters, Rachel Whaley, MaryLynn Whaley and Jordan Whaley; and four brothers, Stephan Skultety, Brian (Debra) Skultety, Jeffery Skultety and Andrew Skultety.

Services set for Friday in Elgin

Funeral services for Lillian Habeger, 94, of Elgin will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 26, at First Baptist Church in Elgin.

Burial will follow at God’s Acre in Clermont.

Visitation will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 25, at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home in Elgin and for one hour before the service Friday at the church. 

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elgin is handling the arrangements.

Lillian died Sunday, July 21, 2013, at Good Samaritan Society – West Union.

Services held for Coranel Frieden, 95

Coranel Frieden, 95, of Elgin died Monday, July 15, 2013, at Bartels Lutheran Retirement Center in Waverly.  

Funeral services were held Saturday, July 20, at Illyria Community Church, rural Elgin.

Burial was in the church cemetery.

Arrangements were handled by Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin.

Coranel (Rothlisberger) Frieden was born Jan. 1, 1918, to Walter Simon and Jessie Nell (Probert) Rothlisberger in their stone house in Illyria Township in Fayette County.  

She was baptized and confirmed at Illyria Community Church, rural Elgin. 

Coranel was the salutatorian and president of her Elgin High School graduating class of 1934. 

After high school, she attended Iowa State Teachers College and graduated in 1936. She taught country school and also taught in Maynard until she was married.

On Sept. 4, 1939, Coranel was united in marriage with Floyd Joseph Frieden in the stone house in Illyria Township. Five children were born to this union.

In addition to helping on the farm, Coranel was a homemaker and a substitute teacher.

In her leisure time, she enjoyed needlework, reading, writing in her journals, playing cards, watching the Iowa Hawkeyes and Pittsburgh Steelers, and loved spending time with her family and friends. 

Coranel was a member of Illyria Community Church, Ladies’ Aid, and the Illyria Home Study Club. She was a Sunday school superintendent and teacher; she also sang in the choir and performed duets with her sister-in-law.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Floyd; her daughter, Dianne Havens; a great-grandson; and two brothers, Walter LeRoy Rothlisberger and John Werner Rothlisberger.

Coranel is survived by four children, David (Karen) Frieden of Swisher, Charles (Deb) Frieden of Elgin, Jessielee Frieden of Mason City, JoNell (Mike) Young of Waverly; a son-in-law, Ed Havens of Newton; nine grandchildren, Jeff Frieden of Cedar Rapids, Joan Frieden of North Liberty, Mark (Amber) Frieden of Poynette, Wis., Merrick (Arielle) Havens of Jacksonville, Fla., Jennifer Frieden of West Union, Blaine (Becky) Frieden of Mason City, Kimberly (Ben) Steines of Tiffin, Randi Young of Waterloo, and David Young of Cedar Falls; and 11 great-grandchildren with two more expected. Condolences may be left online with www.graufuneralhomes.com.

Mass of Christian Burial celebrated in Festina

James A. “Jim” Lensing, 77, of Festina died Thursday, July 25, 2013, at Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Monsignor Cletus Hawes on Tuesday, July 30, at Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Festina.

Interment was in the church cemetery. Military rites were conducted by Halverson Giesen American Legion Post 266 of Calmar.

Casket bearers were Dr. Dale Lensing, Roger Hageman, Richard Kipp, Allan Franzen, Neil Hageman, Travis Frana, Shane Baumler, and Marcus Baumler.

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

  James Aloysius Lensing was born May 6, 1936, in Festina to Hugo and Mathilda (Schrandt) Lensing.  

He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Festina. 

Jim entered the U.S. Army and proudly served his country in the Korean Conflict from Aug. 25, 1953, to Aug. 4, 1956.  

After he returned home from the service, he worked at Nehi Bottling in Decorah.  

On April 22, 1961, Jim was united in marriage with Alice Hageman at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Decorah. 

On Jan. 31, 1962, he started his 

career at Deco Products in Decorah. He worked there for 48½ years, retiring as a die cast scheduling manager on June 30, 2010.  While he worked at Deco, he also farmed and milked cows until 1997. 

Jim enjoyed going for rides with Alice, reading books, looking up information on his computer, keeping up with current events, watching sporting events and All-Star wrestling.  Most of all, Jim loved his wife and family. He also dearly loved his grandchildren and attending all their activities.  He enjoyed going for walks, being outdoors, and visiting with family and friends.

Jim was a member of Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church and Halverson Giesen American Legion Post 266.    Preceding him in death were his parents; a sister, Marie Strub; a brother, Gabriel Lensing; his parents-in-law: Edmund and Mary (Jacobs) Hageman; two brothers-in-law; and three sisters-in-law.

James is survived by his wife, Alice F. Lensing of Fort Atkinson; two daughters, Cindy (Martin) Hageman of Fort Atkinson and Karleen (Mark) Baumler of West Union; three grandchildren, Breanna and James Baumler and Josseline Alice Hageman; two stepgrandchildren, Shane and Marcus Baumler; two brothers, Vince (Ruth) Lensing of Decorah and Stanley (Marlys) Lensing of Knoxville; three sisters, Loretta Russell of North Pole, Alaska, Lillian Gerdes of Tucson, Ariz., and Judy Mae Lensing of Des Moines; a brother-in-law; and two sisters-in-law.

Williams visitation planned for Thursday

John L. Williams, 66, of Hawkeye, formerly of Oelwein, died suddenly at his home on Saturday evening, July 27, 2013.

No services are planned; inurnment will be held at a later date. 

However, visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, at Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein.

John Leo Williams was born Feb. 8, 1947, in Oelwein. He was the son of Rufus and Ella (Taylor) Williams.

In 1968, he graduated from Oelwein Community High School in Oelwein.  

On Dec. 21, 1979, John wed Julie Lynn Mott at the Methodist church in Hazleton. 

John was employed at Atwood in West Union for many years.  

He enjoyed fishing, watching the birds, and visiting with people.  

Preceding him in death were his parents; a daughter, Sarah Williams, in 1981; and two brothers, Jim Williams and Jerry Williams.

John is survived by his wife, Julie, of Hawkeye; a son, Dalton Williams, also of Hawkeye; a daughter, Abby Williams of La Porte City; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial fund has been established in John’s name.

Memorial service set for 10:30 a.m. Thursday 

Judy D. McGuire, 54, of Fayette died Saturday, July 27, 2013, at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, at First United Methodist Church in Fayette with the Rev. Jason Princer officiating.  

Inurnment will follow at Grandview Cemetery in Fayette. 

Visitation will be for one hour preceding services at the church on Thursday.

Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family. 

Judy Darlene (Junge) McGuire, daughter of John and Glenola (Westendorf) Junge, was born Sept. 12, 1958, in Waterloo. 

She graduated from Fayette High School and later earned her C.N.A. certification. 

On March 8, 1986, Judy married Donald J. McGuire.

A longtime resident of Fayette, Judy had been employed for over 20 years as a C.N.A. at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union. 

She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Fayette. 

In her spare time, she enjoyed quilting, crocheting, reading, and baking. 

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald, who died Jan. 13, 2007; her stepson, Donald McGuire Jr.; a brother, Thomas Junge; and a sister, Ruth Lau,

She is survived by a son, Jacob (Devin Clark) McGuire of Fayette; a daughter, Melissa (Layne Upton) Huston; two grandchildren, Wyatt and Jesse Upton; a sister, Jackie (Dave) Garlow of West Union; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.

Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com. 

Services held for former longtime Valley secretary

Lillian L. Habeger, 94, of Elgin died Sunday, July 21, 2013, at the Good Samaritan Center – West Union. 

Funeral services were held Friday, July 26, at First Baptist Church in Elgin with the Rev. Lee Boleyn as the officiant.

Burial was in God’s Acres in Clermont.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elgin was in charge of arrangements.

Lillian Lavanda (Krueger) Habeger was born Oct. 28, 1918, to Edwin and Marietta “Metta” (Miller) Krueger in Elgin. 

She was baptized at First Baptist Church in Elgin as a young girl. 

She graduated from Elgin High School in 1936.

On Feb. 26, 1937, Lillian was united in marriage with Abraham Habeger at First Baptist Church in Elgin. Three children were born to this union. 

Lillian was a homemaker and a secretary at Valley High School for 22 years before retiring in 1979. 

Before moving to West Union, she lived on the farm for 70 years, including 24 years after Abe died in 1985.

Lillian was a very active lifelong member of First Baptist Church, serving as choir director and singing alto in the choir, teaching Sunday school, leading Bible study and Women’s Ministries, and serving as the church treasurer for many years. 

She belonged to the Professional Business Women’s Association in Elgin and was a 4-H leader. She and Abe were also members of the American Shorthorn Association. 

Lillian loved music, playing the piano, performing in a musical quartet in her early married years, sewing and quilting; she made many quilts for her family, friends, high school graduates and church members. She was happiest when active with her hands. She also enjoyed her vegetable and flower gardens, helping others, and traveling extensively in the United States, as well as to Europe and Hawaii. 

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Abe Habeger, on March 18, 1985; and her siblings, Edward Krueger, Esther O’Dell, Lyle Krueger and Kenton Krueger

Sh is survived by her children Anthony (Beverly) Habeger of Clermont, Terry (Nancy) Habeger of Markesan, Wis., and Vicky (Mel) Moore of Scottsdale, Ariz.; eight grandchildren, Cynthia (Brett) Toms, Travis (Sharon) Habeger, Shawn (Wendy) Moore, Chad (Deanna) Moore, Holly Moore, Heidi (Caleb Pourchot) Habeger, Hans (Jadie Johnston) Habeger, Holly (Mark) Schleicher; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Former West Union woman dies July 12

Violet O. Thompson, 85, formerly of West Union, died Friday, July 12, 2013. 

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at Saint Andrew Christian Church in Olathe, Kan. 

A private interment will follow at a later date in Springfield, Mo.

Violet Ornellia “Vi” (Landsgaard) Thompson was born July 30, 1927, in Lansing to Norwegian immigrants Vebjorn and Olga Landsgaard. 

She graduated from West Union High School and obtained her teaching certificate from Upper Iowa University in Fayette. Before she was married, Vi taught in a two-room schoolhouse in Frog Hollow, between West Union and Fayette.

On June 2, 1947, she was united in marriage with Glen Thompson in Gunder. They were married for 56 years.

Throughout their lives, Vi and Glen lived in several cities, including Clarinda, Ia.; Saint Joseph, Mo.; Manhattan, Kan.; and Oklahoma City, Okla.

In 1968, Vi returned to school, earning her LPN nursing degree. She worked at a nursing home and various doctor’s offices before retiring in 1982. 

During their retirement, Glen and Vi spent their summers on a farm in Clarinda and their winters in Arizona before moving to Springfield, Mo. There, they enjoyed day trips to Silver Dollar City and shows in Branson.

Vi also enjoyed gardening, dancing, playing cards, and spending time with her family. As a fan of the outdoors, she liked walking and observing wildlife. 

She was a lifelong member of the Lutheran church and was active in her local congregations. 

An excellent cook, Vi will be remembered for her pancake recipe, as well as her Norwegian pastries: flatbread, krumkakes, and fattigman bakkels.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Glen; her brothers, Gunnar, Esten, Ole, and Bill Landsgaard; and her sister, Thelma McFarlane.

Violet is survived by her two children, Bruce Thompson and Dawn (Brad) Olney; and two granddaughters, Adrienne and Megan Olney. 

Memorials may be sent to the American Heart Association by visiting honor.americanheart.org and choosing “Memorials and Tributes.” 

Online condolences may be left at www.walnutlawnfuneralhome.com.

Former W.U. woman dies

Arlene M. (Holder) Jermeland, 73, of Rockwell, formerly of West Union, died Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013, at Mercy Hospice Care Unit in Iowa City.

Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel in Mason City was in charge of arrangements.

Funeral Mass celebrated for Arlene M. Jermeland

Mason City – Arlene M. Jermeland, 73, passed away Thursday, August 1, 2013 at the Mercy Hospice Care Unit in Iowa City, Iowa after a year and half long battle with her illness.

A funeral Mass for Arlene was held 10:30am, Tuesday, August 6, 2013 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 305 Elm Street East, Rockwell with the Reverend Rodney Allers officiating.  Burial followed in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Rockwell.

A visitation with a public viewing was held from 4 to 7pm, Monday, August 5, 2013 at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3^rd St. NE, Mason City where a scriptural wake service was held at 4:00pm. The reciting of the rosary was held at the conclusion of the visitation.  

Visitation continued one hour prior to the funeral Mass at the Sacred Heart Chapel on Tuesday in Rockwell.

Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Iowa City Hospice, 1025 Wade Street, Iowa City, Iowa 52240 for their superior care of Arlene.

Arlene Marie Jermeland (Holder) was born on August 23^rd, 1939, to Irvin and Lucille Holder in Fort Atkinson, Iowa.  She attended school in West Union, Iowa and graduated in 1958.  Arlene was united in marriage on June 11, 1966 to John Jermeland at Holy Name Church in West Union, Iowa.  For the first few years of their marriage they lived on her parent’s farm east of Hawkeye until they moved to a farm outside of Mason City in 1974.  There she was a homemaker and raised her four children Allen, Julie, Steven, and Pamela while John farmed.  They moved into town in 1982 where she began working at Fareway Grocery store until her retirement 27 years later at the age of 72.

Arlene was a dedicated loving caring mother and grandmother, but one of her most outstanding qualities was her unwavering work ethic as she was always busy working around the house, taking care of the people around her, and working side jobs whenever possible.  She had extreme loyalty to her family when they needed her—traveling to care for and spend time with her grandchildren.  She was loved by many in the community, demonstrated by the many friends and repeat customers that would only go through her grocery line, even if they had to wait.

Arlene was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rockwell, Iowa where she was actively involved in church activities and taught Catechism classes for many years.  She enjoyed gardening, going to church, and most of all spending time with her family and grandchildren.  

She is survived by her two sons Allen (Bridget) Jermeland of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, and Steven (Tori) Jermeland of Waterloo, Iowa; two daughters Julie (Todd Rutledge) Jermeland of Blacksburg, Virginia, and Pamela (Shane) Peden of North Liberty, Iowa; three sisters Darlene (David) Tope of Ames, Iowa, Diane Brink of Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Linda (Roger) Yauslin of West Union, Iowa; one brother Irvin (Connie) Holder of Hawkeye, Iowa; two brothers-in-law Art Cox of West Union, Iowa, and Don Austin of Mason City, Iowa; three sisters-in-law LaVonne (Kendall) Benzing of Monona, Iowa, Elaine Jermeland of West Union, Iowa and Vi Jermeland of Mason City, Iowa; 8 grandchildren Zachary and Jacob Jermeland, Ronald, Kayden, and Tessa Arlene Jermeland, Bryston, Brecken, and Cole Peden; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband John Jermeland, parents Irvin and Lucille Holder, mother-in-law and father-in-law Theodore and Lena Jermeland; sister Norma Cox and two infant siblings; and many brothers and sisters-in-law.

Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd Street Northeast, Mason City, 641-423-2372, ColonialChapels.com.

Services set for Aug. 17 for former Lawler woman

Gerie Schulte, of rural Cuba City, wife of Gary Schulte, mother of Kim (Pat) Lensing of Lawler, IA; and Curt (Michele) Timlin of Platteville, WI, died peacefully at her home Saturday, August 10, 2013.  Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2013 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Benton, Wisconsin. Father David Flanagan will officiate.  Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Friday, August 16, 2013 at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville, where there will be a scripture wake service at 4:00 p.m., friends may also call from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the church.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to one of Gerie’s favorite charities; Badger Camp or Hospice of Dubuque.  The Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville, is serving the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.melbyfh.com.

Gerie was born on September 12, 1940, the daughter of Conrad and Katherine (Lusson) Kuennen, at home in Lawler, Iowa, where they farmed and raised eleven children.  She is survived by her husband, Gary Schulte of Cuba City; two children, Kim (Pat) Lensing and their children, Karleen, Morgan, Tierney, and Delaney of Lawler, Iowa; Curt (Michele) Timlin and their children, MacKenzie and Connor of Platteville, Wisconsin; Gary’s two children; son, Rick (Valerie) Schulte and their children, Tripp and Torin of Piqua, OH; and daughter, Angie Schulte of Cedar Rapids, IA ; siblings, Germaine (Roger) Langreck of St. Lucas, IA; Roger Kuennen of New Hampton, IA; Kay (Gary) Roberson of Bettendorf, IA; Steve (Joyce) Kuennen of Lawler, IA; Susie (Neal) Stone of Lawler, IA; Pauline (Jim) Cox of Galena, IL; Tom Kuennen of Oronoco, MN; Jackie Stone of New Hampton, IA; and Lisa (Harold) Busta of Lawler, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Faith Kuennen.  The family would like to give thanks to  Hospice of Dubuque for their excellent and personal care. 

Memorial service held for Jeff Johnson, 56

Jeff Johnson, 56, of Waucoma, Iowa died Sunday, August 4, 2013 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Memorial Service: 8:00 P.M. Thursday, August 8, 2013 at the Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye with Pastor Irmgard Ellingson of the St. John Stapleton Church and St. Peter’s Richfield Church officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday at the Becker-Milnes funeral home in Hawkeye.

Inurnment: Will be at a later date.

A Memorial Fund has been established in his name.

Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com. 

Jeffery Dean Johnson was born December 11, 1956 at Clarion, Iowa, the son of Roger Neil and Donna Faye (Hackley) Johnson.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Richfield Church.  Jeff attended school at North High School in West Union.  On June 9, 1979 he was united in marriage to Denise Lorraine Krueger at the Little Brown Church in Nashua.  Since 2007 he was employed at Upper Iowa University in the maintenance department.  He was a member of St. John Stapleton Church.  Jeff enjoyed NASCAR, racing, the History Channel, hunting, fishing, working with his hands, his dad’s motorcycle, his dogs Bella and Molly and spending time with his family and friends. 

Jeff is survived by his Wife, Denise Johnson of Waucoma; 2 Sons, Travis (Joan) Johnson of West Union and  Bud (Kara) Johnson of West Union; 3 Daughters, Karissa (Dee Jae) Butikofer of West Union,  Emily (Fiancée, Justin Gamerdinger) Johnson of Iowa City and Ashley (Josh Stanbrough) Johnson of West Union; 9 Grandchildren, Trevor Johnson,  Taylor Johnson,  Karlee Crawford,  Kherington Johnson,  Blake Johnson,  Kole Johnson,  Kennadi Butikofer,  Kale Butikofer and  Drew Butikofer; Mother, Donna Halverson of West Union; 2 Brothers, Bob (Kathy) Johnson of West Union and  Mike (Kathy) Johnson of Castalia;  Sister, Kim (Billy Clark) Johnson of Fayette; and several Nieces and Nephews.

He was preceded in death by his Maternal and Paternal Grandparents; and his Father.

Dick Powers of West Union dies Aug. 7

Richard P. Powers, age 58, of West Union, IA, died on Wednesday, August 7, 2013 at the Veteran’s Administration Medical Center in Iowa City, IA.

Richard was born December 10, 1954 to Charles and Margaret (nee Powers) Powers in Fort Dodge, IA.  Dick graduated from St. Edmund's High School in Fort Dodge, IA in 1973.  He was currently pursuing his Bachelor’s Degree in History.  He married Bess M. Stewart on June 1, 1982 in Fort Dodge, IA. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

Dick worked as a welder at Dura Automotive in West Union.

He attended Ryumonji Zen Monastery in Decorah, IA.  He enjoyed gardening, reading and music.  He enjoyed singing the blues.  He loved history and Civil War re-enactments.

A gathering of family and friends was held in Decorah, IA.

He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife Bess of West Union, IA, his daughter Meghan (Pastor Patrick) Slessor of Wilton, IA, his sons:  Patrick Powers and Kelly Powers both of West Union, IA, his sisters:  Susan (Denny) Bryan of Coralville, IA, Jo Ellen (Ron) Martin of Spirit Lake, IA, Molly (Kent) Norquist of Bella Vista, AR, Patsy (John) McElroy of Fort Dodge, IA and Samantha (Randy) Van Rees of Loveland, CO, his brothers:  David "Buzz" (Ann) Powers of Fort Dodge, IA, Daniel (Jacqui) Powers and William (Mary) Powers both of Urbandale, IA, his granddaughter:  Arybella Reinert-Powers of Calmar, IA and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial donations may be made to the West Union Community Library in his memory.

Online remembrances and condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.

Prayer service held in Gunder for Bernard Loftsgard

Bernard Gene Loftsgard, 84, of Clermont, Iowa passed away Monday, August 12, at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon, Iowa surrounded by his family.  He was born June 7, 1929, in Marion Township, Clayton County, Iowa to Gilbert and Bessie (Larson) Loftsgard.  He was baptized on August 4, 1929 and confirmed on June 27, 1943 by Rev. S.J. Strandjord at the Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder, Iowa where he was a lifetime member.  He attended Marion Township Country School  and Elgin High School.  He was raised in Gunder and lived in the area his entire life.  

He married Catherine Ann Boland of Elkader on March 31, 1951, and just celebrated their 62^nd anniversary in March of this year with their entire family.  They were blessed with four children, Jerry, Larry, Marilyn, and Bernard Wayne.  He started trucking and farming with his Pa and carried on the family tradition with his own sons for over fifty years.  His grandchildren have fond memories of riding with him in the truck.   He enjoyed his coffee every morning, visiting with friends in the surrounding communities.

Bernard is survived by his wife, Catherine; two children, Jerry (Bev) Loftsgard and Marilyn (Milt) Schutte; a daughter-in-law, Paula Loftsgard.  He is also survived by six grandchildren,  Jarrod (Deb) Loftsgard, Chantel (Troy) Johnson, Ryan (Rachel) Schutte, Josh (Stephanie) Loftsgard, Wade Schutte, and Rhett Loftsgard; eight great-grandchildren,  Logan, Peyton and Madison Loftsgard, Kelby and Kaleb Johnson, Reagan and Riley Schutte and Clayton Loftsgard; two siblings, Ronnie (Judy) Loftsgard and Karol Helgerson; sister-in-law, Helen Elias and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Bessie; sons, Larry and Bernard Wayne; his brother, Charlie; his father and mother-in-law; five brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law.

The Family would like to thank Dr. Tom McMullen & Dr. Gloria Blanco and the wonderful and caring staff at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon. Per Bernard’s wishes he was an organ donor.

Visitation was on Sunday, August 18, 2013 from 2-5 pm at Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder, Iowa with a Prayer Service at 2:00 pm with Rev. Marshall Hahn officiating. 

Condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service helped the family with the arrangements.     

Services held for Clermont woman

Delores Virginia Keune, 84, of Clermont, Iowa passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 15, 2013 at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, La Crosse, Wisconsin.   

Delores was born May 29, 1929 to Oscar and Melvina (Ness) Tovson in Decorah, Iowa.  She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church in Decorah.  She graduated from Decorah High School in 1949. Delores was united in marriage with Joice Keune on February 24, 1951 at the Lutheran Church in Spring Grove, Minnesota.  Eight children were born to this union. 

Delores was a farm wife, a stay-at-home mother and she also worked for the Clermont Pin Company in Clermont.  She was a member of West Clermont Lutheran Church, a WELCA circle member and Auxiliary Member.  Delores was a social butterfly at Stoney Brook Care Center in West Union, Iowa.  She also was a care giver for elderly people in Clermont.  Delores enjoyed baking, word find games, reading, listening to music, playing cards, gardening and canning food.  Most of all, she loved spending time with her family.    

Delores is survived by her seven children; Peter (Carol) Keune of Postville, Margo Cooley of West Union, William (Tammie) Keune of Missouri , Leslie (Tami) Keune of West Union, Nancy (Ralph) Detra of Postville, Nora Farley of Clermont and Douglas (Renee) Keune of Wyoming; eighteen grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren and two siblings, Maxine Phillips of Decorah and Orin Tovson of Indiana. 

Delores is preceded in death by her husband, Joice; her parents; a daughter, Wanda Marcov and two sons-in-law, David Cooley and Kevin Farley.

Visitation was on Sunday, August 18, 2013 from 3 to 6 pm at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Monday.

Funeral Services were at 10 am on Monday, August 19, 2013 at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa with Reverend Dayna Winke as the Officiant.

Burial to follow after the luncheon at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Grove, Minnesota.

Condolences may be left at: www.graufuneralhomes.com

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

Funeral Mass held in Festina on Monday

Winnifred “Freda” Einck, age 91, of Decorah, IA formerly of Festina, IA died Wednesday, August 14, 2013 at the Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah, IA.

Winnifred “Freda” Magdelene (Buchheit) Einck,was born October 12, 1921 the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Schrandt) Buchheit near Festina, Iowa. Freda attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Festina. Freda married Herbert Einck on January 29, 1946 at Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Festina, IA They ran the DX Service Station in Festina for twenty eight years, passing the business on to their sons when they moved to Decorah in 1983. At that time they joined  St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Decorah. Freda enjoyed quilting, gardening and canning her produce. Freda especially enjoyed family activities with the grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Freda survivors include six sons: Gerald (Beth) Einck, Decorah, IA; Ray (Judy) Einck, San Francisco, CA; Denny (Kathy) Einck, Rochester, MN; Leon Einck, Decorah, IA; Norm (Cindy) Einck, West Union, IA

and Ken (Sue) Einck, Festina, IA, seventeen grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, one sister-in-law Bernice Einck, Waterloo, IA and one brother-in-law Dale Ott, Festina, IA.

Freda was preceded in death by husband: Herbert April 2000, son: Joseph, Daughter-in-law: Nancy Einck; two grandchildren: Brenda and Brian Einck, parents: Joseph and Mary (Schrandt) Buchheit; Brothers: Edward, Hubert, Barney and Lawrence; sisters: Emma Kuennen and Irene Huinker, Ten brothers-in-law and seven sisters-in-law.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL

11:00 a.m., Monday, August 19, 2013

Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church

Festina, Iowa

CLERGY

Monsignor Cletus Hawes

MUSIC

Jeanette Dietzenbach – Organist

LECTOR

Niece

Jen Costigan

SERVERS

Joseph and Jordan Buchheit

OFFERTORY GIFTBEARERS

Great Grandchildren

Keagen Einck Alexis Wurzer and Brayden Krivachek

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS

Norm  Einck Gerald Einck  Elaine Heying Karen Kleve

CASKETBEARERS

Grandchildren

Russell Einck, Shane Einck, Shawn Einck, Justin Einck, Brad Einck, Jordan Einck

INTERMENT

Our Lady of Seven Dolors Cemetery

Festina, Iowa

Arrangements by

Schluter – Balik Funeral Home

Calmar, Iowa