Joe McCasland

  Joe McCasland, age 73, of Calmar, IA, died on Thursday, December 31, 2015, at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, IA.

     Joseph Wade “Joe” McCasland was born on July 30, 1942, the son of Walter “Hugh” and Mary (Wickett) McCasland in Osceola, IA.  Joe graduated from Southeast Warren Community School District in 1961.  He attended Iowa State University where he graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture Education.  He continued with his education and received his Master’s Degree in 1970 from Iowa State University.  Joe was united in marriage to Connie Burson on June 23, 1962 at the Milo United Methodist Church in Milo, IA.  Joe taught Vo-Ag at Elk Horn-Kimballton Schools for six years and then sold feed for one year at West Side Farm Supply in Tipton.  In August 1971, Joe started teaching Vo-Ag at South Winneshiek Community School District, retiring in May 1999.  After his retirement from teaching, Joe started a second career as an appraiser for Northeast Iowa Realty and drove school bus for South Winneshiek Community School District.  Joe also served the City of Calmar by serving two terms as Mayor as well as on the City Council for a total of twenty years. Joe was instrumental in helping to start the Little League Baseball program and building the City Swimming Pool in Calmar.  He also served as a Den Mother for his sons, Cub Scout group.  Joe was an active member of the Calmar Lions and often participated in parades throughout Northeast Iowa during the summer operating the “Lions Train”. Joe’s involvement in the Calmar United Methodist Church was always important to him.  He served as treasurer and trustee and was considered the “Pizza Man”. Joe served many years as the Swine Superintendent for the Winneshiek County Fair.  He enjoyed gambling and won a trip to the Bahamas playing Black Jack. Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing and mushroom hunting with his family; teaching his children all his secrets. 

     Joe is survived by his wife: Connie McCasland, Calmar, IA.  Three children: Tracy (Mike) O’Brien, Venice, FL; Doug (Amy) McCasland, St. Marys, IA; and Barrett “Bear” (Nicole) McCasland, Decorah, IA.  Seven grandchildren: Quinton, Devon and Jordan O’Brien; Shelby and Sydney McCasland; Luke and Larra McCasland.  Two siblings: John (Lynn) McCasland, Webster, WI and Evelyn (Bernie) Lewiston, Odgen, IA.  One sister-in-law: Lori McCasland, Slater, IA. Close cousin: Marty (Kay) Middleswart, Indianola, IA. Two brothers-in-laws: Ron (Carol) Burson, Indianola, IA, and Tom (Marilyn) Brommel, St. Marys, IA, along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

     Joe was preceded in death by his parents: Walter “Hugh” and Mary (Wickett) McCasland.  One brother: James McCasland.  Two sister-in-laws and one brother-in-law: Shirley Brommel, Colleen Lathram and Bill Burson.  His father-in-law and mother-in-law: George and Mable Burson.

Marion Kehoe

Marion M. Kehoe, 97, of Fayette, died Saturday, January 16, 2016, at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday, January 25, 2016, at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner, Iowa with Rev. Norman Bauer officiating.  Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Oelwein. Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, January 25^th at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette and for one hour preceding services at the church on Monday. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.

Marion Marie, daughter of Henry and Ida Pipho Wegner, was born July 11, 1918, in Center Township of rural Fayette County, Iowa. She received her education in the rural Schools and graduated from Randalia High School. She was married to Leland Benter, and to this union two children were born, Marlys and Darrell. They would later divorce. On January 12, 1973, Marion was married to Maurice Kehoe. Maurice’s death occurred in April of 1979. Marion worked for many years at Lucy’s Garden of Eatin’ in Fayette. She became a resident of Maple Crest Manor in Fayette in 2001, and enjoyed her many years there. Marion was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner and enjoyed dancing and playing cards.

She is survived by a daughter, Marlys (Lumir) Nezerka of Savage, Minnesota; six grandchildren, Kim (Allan) Cannamore, Michelle (Mark) Nelson, Scott (Kelly) Nezerka, Shawn (Sarah) Nezerka, Darren Benter, and Dallas (Shilo) Benter;  and ten great grandchildren, David (Brittney) Cannamore, Jonathan Cannamore, Alexandra, Tyler, Stephanie, and Connor Nelson, Michael, Elizabeth, and Stephen Nezerka, and Michelle Benter.

In addition to her husband, Maurice and her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Darrell in 2002; a sister, Mildred Burrack; and a brother, Ralph Wegner.

Joy Alan McFarlane

Joy Alan McFarlane, born January 3, 1952 at Mercy Hospital of Franciscan Sisters in Oelwein, Iowa to Clyde and Thelma (Landsgaard) McFarlane, the third of nine children. Died January 3, 2016.

A memorial service will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Thursday, January 14, 2016 at S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in Fayette, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers the family would ask that donations be given to the Fayette County Fair Beef Barn or Fayette American Legion in Joy's name.

He attended and graduated high school in West Union. Played baseball until his passion for Shorthorn cattle filled much of his time. He was a member of Union 4-H club, North Fayette FFA and showed cattle locally at the Fayette County Fair, Big Four Fair in Postville, American Royal Cattle Show in Kansas City, International Cattle Show in Chicago and National Western Cattle Show in Denver with family. He also traveled several summers with the Nabholz family showing Jersey cattle and with the Mauer family showing their Shorthorns.

He worked many jobs, farming with his father while young, picking melons for Attrus Stepp as a teen, working at the West Union Co-op while in and just after high school, construction worker, bartender and carpet installer. Recent times found him volunteering at the American Legion, he had great respect for our veterans and service men and women and felt proud to help.

He was preceded in death by grandparents James and Polly McFarlane and Vebjorn and Olga Landsgaard, parents Clyde and Thelma McFarlane, nieces Melissa McFarlane, Amy McFarlane and great nephew Brady McFarlane. Uncles Gunnar, Esten, Ole, William Landsgaard and Glen Thompson, aunts Selma, Leta Landsgaard, Violet Thompson and several cousins.

He is survived by five sisters and three brothers. Linda and Don Risinger of Lawton, Oklahoma, Dale and Judy McFarlane of Waucoma, Sandra and Brian Gossman of Ames, Sharon and Kyle Comer of Lone Tree, Tracy and Dale Elsbernd of Calmar, Robert and Joyce McFarlane of Randalia, Paula and David Schott of Clermont and Paul McFarlane of Cedar Rapids. He was loved and is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home of Fayette is in charge of the arrangements. 

Larry Krueger

Larry Krueger, 64, of Elgin, Iowa passed away Thursday, January 14, 2016 at his home.  Larry Lyle, the son of Lyle and Helen (Roberts) Krueger, was born September 26, 1951 in West Union, Iowa.  He graduated from Valley High School in 1969.  Larry was united in marriage with the former Terry Chevalley on July 7, 1989 in Harpers Ferry, Iowa.

Larry worked at NEOWA FS, Robertson Implement, and Blessing Industries. Presently, Larry owned and operated Krueger Construction in Elgin, Iowa.

Larry is survived by his wife of twenty-six years, Terry, of Elgin, Iowa; two sons, Jeremy Krueger of Independence, Iowa; and Jason (Krista) Krueger of Brandon, Iowa; one daughter, Jennifer (Jeff) Johnson of Ankeny, Iowa; two stepsons, Sceeter (Jenny) Schmitt and Brent (Diane) Schmitt, both of Sumner, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Grace and Cora Krueger; Izak and Cole Krueger; and Kyle, Reilly, Derek, and Ryan Johnson; six step-grandchildren, Morgan, McKenzie, Hunter, and Aidan Schmitt; and Mason and Olivia Schmitt; one brother, LaVerne (Diane) Krueger of LaCrescent, Minnesota; one sister, Linda (Dave) Solheim of Clermont, Iowa; and several nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and two faithful companions, Scamper and Maggie.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 2:00 until 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 17, 2016 at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home in Elgin.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elgin, Iowa is handling the arrangements for the family.  

Sid Tope

Sidney Albert Tope, 95, passed away on January 20, 2016 at Palmer Lutheran Health Center.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bethel Presbyterian Church in West Union, IA.

Visitation was to be held on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the S.K. Rogers and Burnham-Wood Funeral home in West Union, IA and at the church one hour prior to the service.

Sidney Albert Tope was born on December 21, 1920 to Sidney and Anna (Johnston) Tope in the existing house on the Tope Century Farm located in Dover Township north of West Union.

He attended country school and graduated from West Union High School.

He was united in marriage on April 9, 1944 to Ida Maude Briggs in Fayette, Iowa. To this union three sons were born, Terry (stillborn), Steven, and Randy.

Sidney farmed most of his life. He worked at the Johnston Ice Cream Factory and also on a mink farm.

He was a longtime member of the Bethel Presbyterian Church and the Willing Workers at Bethel. He was also a member of the Hawkeye Conservation Club.

Sid sold Super Crost seed corn for many years which enabled him and Ida to go on many Super Crost sponsored trips to places such as Germany, Switzerland, Hawaii, and Caribbean Cruises.

Sid was best known for his jokes, storytelling, whistling and singing, and his all-around good nature.

Sid enjoyed playing cards, square dancing with Ida, making people laugh, and spending time with his friends and family, especially his three granddaughters.

At the time of his death Sidney was residing at Stoney Brook Village Assisted Living, where he enjoyed visits with family, friends, and staff.

Sid is survived by his two sons, Steven (Kaye Johnston) Tope of La Crosse, WI, Randy (Brenda) Tope of West Union, IA; his sister Elizabeth Wright of Yucca Valley, CA; three granddaughters, Alyssa, Emily, and Callie Tope, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Ida, son Terry, sister, Amy Suhrbier, brother, Earle Tope, and his twin (stillborn).

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

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Carolyn Judy

Carolyn A. Judy, 81, of Hawkeye, died Thursday, January 21, 2016, at the family farm, near Hawkeye, Iowa.

Celebration of life services will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 30, 2016, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Chapel in Hawkeye, Iowa with Pastor Garry Birth officiating. 

Inurnment will follow at the Hawkeye Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, January 29 at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding services at the chapel on Saturday.

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

Carolyn Ann, daughter of Fred and Lydia (Siekmeier) Miller, was born on a beautiful fall day, October 20, 1934, on the family farm, near Hawkeye. She attended Hawkeye Grade School and graduated from Alpha High School.

On February 23, 1952, she married John Weidemann at the family farm, and they moved to West Union. Two sons, Tim and Tom, were born to this marriage. The couple later divorced.

Carolyn attended N.I.C.C. and graduated from the nursing program in 1973, and moved soon after to Gurnee, Illinois. She worked in the recovery room at Lake Forest Hospital until retiring.

On February 9, 1975, she married M. Clayton Judy and they were happily married until his passing in May of 2012. Clayton had two sons, Gary and M. Clayton.

Carolyn was a lifetime member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church attending churches in Hawkeye, Waukegan, Illinois, and Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.

She is survived by four sons, Tom (Tracy) Weidemann of Schaumburg, Illinois, Tim (Muriel) Weidemann of Carson City, Nevada, Clay, (Donna) Judy of North Port, Florida, and Gary (Marcia) Judy of Monmouth, Illinois; 12 grandchildren; and 16 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband Clayton and parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Moravetz and a brother, Bill Miller.      4u4

Marilyn Klatt

Carolyn A. Judy, 81, of Hawkeye, died Thursday, January 21, 2016, at the family farm, near Hawkeye, Iowa.

Celebration of life services will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 30, 2016, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Chapel in Hawkeye, Iowa with Pastor Garry Birth officiating. 

Inurnment will follow at the Hawkeye Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, January 29 at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding services at the chapel on Saturday.

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

Carolyn Ann, daughter of Fred and Lydia (Siekmeier) Miller, was born on a beautiful fall day, October 20, 1934, on the family farm, near Hawkeye. She attended Hawkeye Grade School and graduated from Alpha High School.

On February 23, 1952, she married John Weidemann at the family farm, and they moved to West Union. Two sons, Tim and Tom, were born to this marriage. The couple later divorced.

Carolyn attended N.I.C.C. and graduated from the nursing program in 1973, and moved soon after to Gurnee, Illinois. She worked in the recovery room at Lake Forest Hospital until retiring.

On February 9, 1975, she married M. Clayton Judy and they were happily married until his passing in May of 2012. Clayton had two sons, Gary and M. Clayton.

Carolyn was a lifetime member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church attending churches in Hawkeye, Waukegan, Illinois, and Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.

She is survived by four sons, Tom (Tracy) Weidemann of Schaumburg, Illinois, Tim (Muriel) Weidemann of Carson City, Nevada, Clay, (Donna) Judy of North Port, Florida, and Gary (Marcia) Judy of Monmouth, Illinois; 12 grandchildren; and 16 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband Clayton and parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Moravetz and a brother, Bill Miller.      4u4

Raymond Brickman

Raymond Brickman, 92, of Oelwein passed away on Thursday January 21, 2016 at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.  Visitation will be from 4-7 PM on Tuesday January 26, 2016 at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home in Oelwein.  Funeral services will be at 10:30 AM on Wednesday January 27, 2016 at Zion Lutheran Church in Oelwein with Rev. Leo Combs-Lay officiating.  Interment will be in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens at Hazleton.  For condolences, please visit www.geilenfeldfh.com.  

Raymond Lee Brickman was born on February 19, 1923 in Westgate, Iowa to parents Fred and Bertha (Fink) Brickman.  He was baptized at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Westgate and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fairbank.  He attended Fairbank Parochial School in Fairbank and Oran High School. 

Raymond served his country honorably in the United States Army during World War II.  On June 16, 1950 Raymond was united in marriage with Dorothy Knoploh at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sumner. To this union they were blessed with three sons: Dale, Duane and Darryl.  He was employed as a Custodian with the Wapsie Valley School System.

Raymond was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Oelwein and the American Legion Ross Reid Post 9 of Oelwein.  He enjoyed gardening, fishing and boating, travelling, square dancing and his family.

Left to celebrate Raymond’s life are his sons: Dale (Pam) of Waverly and their children: Scott (Cassie) Brickman and Kristin (Dan) Blaylock; Duane “Red” (Nina) of Westgate and their children: Cody, Cheyanne and Cheridan Brickman; and Darryl “Ernie” (Lori) of Fairbank and their children Heather (Kyle) Reeves, Michaelyn (Shane) McClinton and Dustin Brickman; his great-grandchildren: Tanner and Brody Blaylock, Evan and Alec McClinton, Olivia and Kade Reeves; brother Arlen (Donna) of Waverly; his sisters: Wilma Rueber of Strawberry Point, Viola Lenius of Waterloo and Francis Sievers of Des Moines; his sister-in-law Arlene Brickman of Oelwein; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy (2015); his parents; his brothers: Harold, Clarence, Wilbert, and Edgar (Annetta) Brickman; his sister Evelyn Dierks; his brothers-in-law: Arnold Rueber, Elmer John Lenius and Kenny Sievers.

Eldon Severson

Eldon Lee Severson, 85, of Clermont, Iowa died Friday, January 22, 2016 at Palmer Lutheran Health Center, West Union, Iowa. Eldon was born on August 16, 1930 in Topeka, Jewel County, Kansas to Otto and Lulu (Larson) Severson. He was baptized at his parent’s home on November 2, 1930 in Jewel County, Kansas and confirmed on June 10, 1944 at the Norway Lutheran Church, St. Olaf, Iowa. Eldon attended rural grade school in Clayton County and graduated from Elkader High School in 1948. Eldon farmed with his dad a few years. He joined the United States Coast Guard on November 21, 1951 and was honorably discharged on November 22, 1954. He received the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Metal. When Eldon came home from the Coast Guard, he attended Iowa State University and farmed with his family.

Eldon was united in marriage with Lucille Eleanor Guyer on May 29, 1962 and together they continued to farm the family farm for thirty more years. Eldon also worked for the Elkader Co-op for ten years before returning to their home in Clermont in 1992. He was a member of the Norway Lutheran Church and also served as the President, Deacon and Trustee. Eldon was also a member of the American Legion for sixty years and served as town clerk.

Eldon was a loving, kind, dedicated, generous husband and father. He loved God and his family and had many treasured friends. Salesmen always said they loved stopping and seeing Eldon because he was always ready to shut off his tractor or quit whatever he was doing and listen to what they had to say, and he maybe had a few jokes to tell them also. After retirement, Eldon enjoyed going fishing, visiting relatives in other states and spending time with his immediate family. You could often find Eldon and Lucille sitting down by the pond, enjoying life.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Lucille of Clermont; his children, Eugene (Becky) Severson of Chatfield, Minnesota, Ray (LuAnn) Severson of Elgin, Iowa, Barbara (Dale) Tieskoetter of Monona, Iowa, Gerald (Joanne) Severson of Elkader, Iowa, Kent (Kathy) Severson of Mount Vernon, Iowa, Lee (Kathryn) Severson of Ft. Jones, California, Ruth (Richard) Delaney of Katy, Texas; twenty-one grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Eldon was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Elaine Delafield.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at Norway Lutheran Church, St. Olaf, Iowa with a two hour visitation before services at the church on Tuesday. Rev. Marshall Hahn will be the Officiant

Burial will follow at Norway Lutheran Church Cemetery, St. Olaf, Iowa with Military Honors.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.

Isaiah Shaun Schmitt

     Isaiah Shaun Schmitt, infant son of Shaun and Kendra Schmitt was welcomed into heaven on January 15th, 2016. He was born at the Methodist Hospital in Rochester, MN, at 4:27 p.m. He weighed 4 lbs. 15 oz. and was 15 inches long. He spent his few minutes here on earth in the loving arms of his mother and father, a time that will be cherished forever.

     Isaiah is survived by his parents, Shaun and Kendra (Timp) Schmitt of Calmar; sisters, Eva and Ali; grandparents, Kenneth and JoAnn Timp of Calmar, and Ronald and Jane Schmitt of Fort Atkinson; great-grandparents, Dorothy Scholbrock of Festina, Beatrice Timp of Ossian, and Elmer and Dorothy Schmitt of Fort Atkinson; aunts and uncles, Kerri and Dustin Hammersland of Center Point, Victoria and Derek Hinke of Cedar Rapids, Melissa and Chris Diveley of North Liberty, Scott Schmitt of Ridgeway, and Heidi Schmitt and special friend Derek Lindstrom of North Liberty; cousins, Brexton, Jaxson, and Paxton Hammersland, and William, Jocelyn, and Jameson Diveley.

     Isaiah is preceded in death by his great-grandparents, John Scholbrock, Victor Timp, and Paul and Marie Tieskoetter; and cousin Paul Diveley.

Larry Brockway

Larry Lee Brockway age 64 of Castalia, Iowa died Saturday, January 23, 2016, at Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah. 

Friends may greet the family 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 29, 2016, at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. 

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 30, 2016, at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia with Pastor Allan Wick officiating.

A private family burial will be held at a later date.

Larry Lee Brockway was born April 15, 1951, in West Union, Iowa, the son of Donald and Rosemary (Cline) Brockway. He attended Dover #6 country school, Postville High School, and graduated from South Winneshiek High School in 1969. 

The years following high school, Larry farmed, worked for Tuohy Furniture Corp., The Luana Creamery, and started working for Winneshiek County Road Department in 1976. Throughout these years, he also hauled milk for various haulers. Larry Served on city council and was on the Castalia volunteer fire department where he served as the chief for many years. 

On June 15, 1974, he was united in marriage to Kathy Thornton at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa. Together they had three daughters, Jodi, Brandi, and Lisa. 

Larry worked for the county for 40 years retiring in November of 2015. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, playing cards, going on tours with his "trusty rusty", hunting, sports (Vikings & Hawkeyes), grilling, socializing at the shed, and especially spending time with his family. Larry was truly one of a kind and will forever be missed. 

Larry is survived by his wife of 41 years, Kathy (Thornton) Brockway of Castalia, IA; three daughters, Jodi (Kendall) Ney of Erie, IL, Brandi (Cory) Mcgee of Ossian, IA, Lisa (Russell) Tieskoetter of Ossian, IA; grandchildren, Tanner Brockway and Mason Ney, Olivia (her friend Nick Bucheit) Hannah and Sadie Mcgee, Owen, Brody, and Hayden Tieskoetter; two brothers, Donald (Kay) Brockway of Preston, MN, Gary (Lori) Brockway of Postville, IA; twin sister, Jeri (Tom) Humpal of Ridgeway, IA; two brothers-in-law, Larry Lechtenberg of Festina, IA, Rick Thornton of Decorah, IA; father-in-law, Lloyd Thornton of Fulton, TX; aunt, Betty Cline of Waterloo, IA; uncle, Walt Brockway of Waterloo, IA; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his beloved dog Rusty. 

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Rosemary (Cline) Brockway; mother-in-law, Marian Thornton; sister, Dawn Lechtenberg; niece and nephew, Kimberly and Cory Lechtenberg; sister-in-law, Terri McKee.

Iola Stannard

Iola Stannard, 100, of Oelwein and formerly of Fayette, died Friday, January 29, 2016, at her home.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 6, 2016, at the United Methodist Church in Fayette with Rev. Mee Kang officiating. 

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 5, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette and for one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday.

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

Ida Iola, daughter of Henry and Matilda (Bunting) Feller, was born September 19, 1915, at Illyria Township in Fayette County.

She was baptized at the Illyria Church.

She received her education in the rural Illyria Township Schools and graduated from West Union High School in 1933.

She graduated with a teaching degree from Iowa State Teacher’s College in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She taught for a few years at the rural schools in Illyria Township. She was a nanny in Highland Park, Illinois for a couple of years before moving back and teaching at a school in Albion, Iowa.

On June 1, 1939, she was united in marriage with Earl Stannard at her parent’s home with Rev. Worten officiating. The couple made their home in the Fayette area.

Iola was a long time member of the United Methodist Church in Fayette. She was very active the United Methodist Women, Lima Ladies Aid, Lima Cemetery Association, and the Volga Valley Club.

Iola enjoyed bird watching, gardening, sewing, having people over to the home to cook for, but most especially time spent with family.

Iola is survived by her two children, Dennis (Jeanne) Stannard of Wadena, and Janice Dietz Veaver of Oelwein; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one brother, Clifford Feller of Waterloo; and one sister-in-law, Blanche Feller of Elkader.

In addition to her parents and husband, Earl who died in 1993, Iola was preceded in death by her siblings, Gladys Feller, Harry Feller, Bill Feller, Ethel Manelly, Lois Smith and an infant sister.

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David "Pete" Woodson

David “Pete” Woodson, Clermont Iowa passed away January 25, 2016 at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union, Iowa after a long battle with cancer.

David Franklin, the son of Howard and LaVaune (Miller) Woodson, was born February 4, 1939 in West Union, Iowa.

He graduated from the West Union High School in 1957. Out of high school, Pete was employed with the Fayette County Road Department. 

Pete was united in marriage with MaryAnn Scheidel on September 17, 1960 at the St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, Iowa.

From 1965-1970 Pete tried his hand at farming, but soon realized he was born to move dirt. In 1972, he started working for Reilly Construction.  He had great pride in being part of statewide projects along interstate I-380, I-330, and Volga Lake.  In 1990, Pete went back to work for Fayette County and retired in 2001 after teaching many young men the ropes.  Lehmann Rock and Lime and West Union Trenching kept him busy up to the summer of 2014.   

Pete was a member of the St. Peter’s Catholic Church.  Pete enjoyed spending time with his family and friends; visiting old buddies at the Lake of the Ozarks, fishing his favorite spot down in the “Gulch,” restoring his 1947 Ford tractor, and spending time, many, many years at the Mississippi River.

Pete is survived by his wife, MaryAnn, of 55 years, of Clermont, Iowa; sons, Mike of Eldorado, and  Lee (Christine) of Ossian; daughters, Sarah (Bruce) Lehmann of Clermont; and Janice (Chris) Gordon of Maynard; six grandchildren, Blaine and Kyle Woodson  of Ossian; Ryin and Payten Lehmann of Clermont; and Dustin and Aaliyah Gordon of Maynard; one sister-in-law, Joan (Tom, his favorite brother-in-law) Bryson of Northville, Michigan; and many nieces and nephews.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Kelby Lehmann; and niece, Donna (Scheidel) Johnson.

Visitation was on Thursday, January 28, 2016 from 4-7 pm at St. Peter Catholic Church, Clermont, Iowa with a 7:00 pm Scripture Service. There was also a one hour visitation before Mass at the church on Friday.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11:00 am on Friday, January 29, 2016 at St. Peter Catholic Church, Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Dale Rausch as the Celebrant.

Inurnment will be held at a later date at St. Peter Catholic Church Cemetery, Clermont, Iowa.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.           5u5

Merlin Dunt

Merlin Paul Dunt, 86, of West Union, Iowa passed away on Tuesday, January 26, 2016, at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union. 

Merlin, son of William and Agnes (Nemmers) Dunt, was born in Cresco, Iowa, on May 21, 1929. 

He graduated from Assumption High School in 1948. 

Merlin married Marjorie Quinn in Cresco in 1950, and together they raised eight children. 

He was united in marriage with Nancy Neuroth on February 11, 1989, at Bethel Presbyterian Church, West Union.

Merlin served in the Army in Korea from 1951 to 1953. 

He worked for Interstate Power Company for 42 years. 

He was a member of the West Union Jaycees, a member of the West Union Volunteer Fire Dept. for 37 years, was on the school board, and proudly served as mayor of West Union for 14 years. He was also a member of American Legion Post 15, and he volunteered at the West Union Rec Center mowing the lawn. 

Merlin loved West Union and was on the original task force for West Union to become a Main Street Community.

Merlin loved to stay busy.  He loved fishing, enjoyed wood projects, and doing Word Find books. He was also a rock hound and a collector of many things – rocks, marbles, insulators, watches and knives, to name a few. 

He especially loved spending time with family and friends, laughing and having fun, and his favorite thing was riding around in the Jeep with his best buddy, Charlie.

Merlin is survived by his wife, Nancy; eight children, Jack (Sue) Dunt of Washoe Valley, Nev., Mary Buenzow of Waseca, Minn., Bill (Joyce) Dunt of Sun Prairie, Wis., Brian (Kathy) Dunt of West Union, Steve (Linda) Dunt of Ossian, Dean (Jana) Dunt of Urbandale, Karen Kime of Sac City, and Ron (Krista) Dunt of Hampton; one sister, Maxine Davis of Spencer; 20 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren, sisters- and brothers-in-law Dave and Julie Aanes, and Kenny and Patti Mittelstadt; several nieces, nephews,  cousins; and a host of friends.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Kenneth, and his wife, Delores Dunt; and a brother-in-law, Ben Davis.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union with a visitation one hour prior to service time at Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in West Union. 

A public visitation was held 4-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29, at Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in West Union.

Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home of West Union was in charge of arrangements.        5u5

Alo Yearous

David “Pete” Woodson, Clermont Iowa passed away January 25, 2016 at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union, Iowa after a long battle with cancer.

David Franklin, the son of Howard and LaVaune (Miller) Woodson, was born February 4, 1939 in West Union, Iowa.

He graduated from the West Union High School in 1957. Out of high school, Pete was employed with the Fayette County Road Department. 

Pete was united in marriage with MaryAnn Scheidel on September 17, 1960 at the St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, Iowa.

From 1965-1970 Pete tried his hand at farming, but soon realized he was born to move dirt. In 1972, he started working for Reilly Construction.  He had great pride in being part of statewide projects along interstate I-380, I-330, and Volga Lake.  In 1990, Pete went back to work for Fayette County and retired in 2001 after teaching many young men the ropes.  Lehmann Rock and Lime and West Union Trenching kept him busy up to the summer of 2014.   

Pete was a member of the St. Peter’s Catholic Church.  Pete enjoyed spending time with his family and friends; visiting old buddies at the Lake of the Ozarks, fishing his favorite spot down in the “Gulch,” restoring his 1947 Ford tractor, and spending time, many, many years at the Mississippi River.

Pete is survived by his wife, MaryAnn, of 55 years, of Clermont, Iowa; sons, Mike of Eldorado, and  Lee (Christine) of Ossian; daughters, Sarah (Bruce) Lehmann of Clermont; and Janice (Chris) Gordon of Maynard; six grandchildren, Blaine and Kyle Woodson  of Ossian; Ryin and Payten Lehmann of Clermont; and Dustin and Aaliyah Gordon of Maynard; one sister-in-law, Joan (Tom, his favorite brother-in-law) Bryson of Northville, Michigan; and many nieces and nephews.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Kelby Lehmann; and niece, Donna (Scheidel) Johnson.

Visitation was on Thursday, January 28, 2016 from 4-7 pm at St. Peter Catholic Church, Clermont, Iowa with a 7:00 pm Scripture Service. There was also a one hour visitation before Mass at the church on Friday.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11:00 am on Friday, January 29, 2016 at St. Peter Catholic Church, Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Dale Rausch as the Celebrant.

Inurnment will be held at a later date at St. Peter Catholic Church Cemetery, Clermont, Iowa.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.           5u5

Harry "Jim" Anderson

Harry James “Jim” Anderson, 80, of Sumner, formerly of Hawkeye, died Saturday, January 30, 2016, at Community Memorial Hospital in Sumner.

Funeral Services will be held at United Methodist Church in Randalia on February 5, 2016, at 10:30 a.m.

Interment will follow at Dunham Grove Cemetery with military rites by Arnold-Rogers Post #312, American Legion of Hawkeye.

Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 4, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye and for one hour preceding services at the church on Friday.

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

Jim Anderson, son of Harry LaVern and Cecil Mae (Appleman) Anderson, was born May 11, 1935, at the family farm in rural Hawkeye.

He was baptized at the United Methodist Church in Randalia and received his education in the Randalia Schools.

He served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1960 during the Korean conflict.

On September 3, 1960 he was united in marriage with Nadine Poulson Lagerquist in Hannibal, Missouri. The couple farmed near Hawkeye for many years, retiring in the mid 1990’s.

Jim enjoyed camping, reading, and listening to blue grass music.

Jim is survived by his wife, Nadine of Sumner; one daughter, Joanne (Don) Ede of Maynard; one son, Philip Lagerquist of Iowa Falls; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Earl (Jacquie) Anderson of Hawkeye, three sisters, Faye Latta of Virginia, Margaret Vargason of Texas, and Mavis Kimbrell of Georgia.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a son, Jack Anderson; a daughter, Kathy Wiedner, three infant children; and four brothers, Robert, Roy, Arthur, and David Anderson.         5u5

David Anthony

David Anthony, 50, of West Union, formerly of Fayette, died Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at his home in West Union.

Arrangements are pending at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette.

For further information, please check www.beckermilnesrettig.com or call (563) 578-3451.

Michael Ray Cooley

  Michael Ray Cooley, of Denver, Co., formerly of Elgin, died Friday, Jan. 29, at the Denver Hospice Center.

Leona Gerleman

Leona Marie Gerleman, 91, of Ossian, Iowa died Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at Ossian Senior Hospice, Ossian, Iowa. Leona was born on February 7, 1924, in Ossian, Iowa, to Frank and Elizabeth (Moellers) Geling. She attended country school through the eighth grade. Leona helped in private homes caring for newborn babies and their families as a nanny in Chicago, IL. She also worked part time for Rockwell Collins until her retirement in 1991.

Leona was united in marriage to Hugo Gerleman on April 20, 1948, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, Iowa. Nine children were born to this union. Hugo later passed away on August 19, 2003.

Leona always stayed busy cooking, gardening, canning, doing embroidery work and quilting for her family members. She was an avid bingo and card player, enjoyed collecting cardinal figurines and pictures and she also loved spending time with her many family members. Leona was a member of the Rosary Society, Senior Citizen Meal Site and a life-long member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends. She was very devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary and prayed the rosary daily.

Survivors include nine children, Elizabeth Gerleman, Davenport, Duane (Marsha) Gerleman, Monona, Lorraine (Paul) Kagemann, DeWitt, Dennis (Ruth) Gerleman, Decorah, Dale (Betty) Gerleman, Ossian, David (Robyn) Gerleman, Plainfield, Daniel (Dee) Gerleman, Spillville, Dean (Deb) Gerleman, Chippewa Falls, WI, Mary Ann (Kevin) Neuzil, Cresco; three sisters-in-law, Marcie Geling, Marlys Gerleman, Grace Gerleman and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Elizabeth Geling; her husband, Hugo Gerleman; her siblings, Walter Geling, Elsie Hageman, Cyrilla Krivachek and Lucille Heying and her granddaughter, Kymm Gerleman. 

Visitation will be Friday, January 29, 2016 from 4-7 pm with a 4:00 pm Vigil Service at Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Ossian, Iowa. There will also be a one hour visitation before Mass at the church on Saturday, January 30, 2016.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian, Iowa with Rev. Robert Gross as the Celebrant.

Burial will follow at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery, Ossian, Iowa.

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

Clarence Everman

Clarence Harlan Everman, 97, of Postville, Iowa died Monday morning, January 25, 2016 at Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, Iowa.  He was born on August 14, 1918 to William and Emma (Wegner) Everman on the family farm in Postville, Iowa. Clarence was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Postville.  He attended Postville High School.

Clarence served in the US Army in World War II and was awarded medals of which one was the Purple Heart from 209 days of combat in the Battle of the Bulge, two Bronze Stars, the Good Conduct Medal and the European African Middle Eastern Medal.  

On August 14, 1947, Clarence was united in marriage with Ramona Meyer at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Postville.  He was a mail carrier in rural Postville and also farmed from 1948-1978 at which time their son, Hall, took over the farming operations. 

Clarence was very active in his church and served on the council.  He helped with 4-H projects and served on the Creamery Board of Directors for many years.

Clarence loved his grandchildren and would spend one month every year in the winter in Arizona so he could be with his family in Sierra Vista.  He also spent much time reading and keeping in touch with current events. He bowled and loved to swim.

Clarence is survived by his wife, Ramona; two daughters, Carol (Ken) Chamberlain of Sierra Vista, Arizona and Dianne (Larry) Schultz of Postville; one son, Hall (Denise) Everman of Postville; eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Clifford and Harold Everman; five sisters, Marie Davis, Gretchen Meyer, Florence Lawson, Irene Mounce and Pauline Everman; four brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law.

Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren 

Theo (Julie) Chamberlain and their children, Rowan, Lia and Maxwell of Gilbert, Arizona.

Eli (Kari) Chamberlain of Flagstaff, Arizona.

Gretchen (Mike) Heinen and their children, Drew, Cal, and Ella of Cottage Grove, Minnesota.

Brent (Ying) Schultz and their son, Deacon of Clearwater, Florida.

Heidi (Kevin) Terdal of Norwalk, Iowa.

Brandon Schultz of Gays Mills, Wisconsin.

Allie (Kelly) Bachelder and their children, Emma, Grace, Savannah and Rudy of Decorah, Iowa.

Brandi (Matt) Triggs and their son, Cooper of Story City, Iowa.

Blair (Jessie) Everman and their son, Wes of Waukon, Iowa.

Bobbi Jo (Kevin) Baxter and their children, Wyatt and Trudy of Waukon, Iowa.

Blake Everman of Postville, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Clarence’s honor can be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project. 

Visitation will be Thursday, January 28, 2016 from 4-7 pm at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Postville, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Friday.

Funeral Services will be at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 29, 2016 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville, Iowa with Rev. Jack Gannett as the Officiant.

Burial will follow at the Postville Cemetery, Postville, Iowa with Military Rites.

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