LaVerne Bouska

LaVerne C. Bouska age 86 of Lawler, IA, died Saturday, February 6, 2016, at his home.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 9, 2016, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Lawler with Rev. Nick March celebrating the Mass. 

Interment will be in the church cemetery at a later date. Military honors will be conducted by the Lawler American Legion.

Friends greeted the family 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Monday at the church. Visitation continued an hour prior to the Mass at the church on Tuesday.

Arrangements are with Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Lawler.

If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of LaVerne Bouska, to the charity of your choice. 

LaVerne Charles Bouska was born Aug. 25, 1929, the son of Julius Michael and Mary "Mayme" Theresa (Schlichte) Bouska. He was born on the family farm, south of Waucoma, Iowa.

Verne was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Waucoma.

He also attended schools in Waucoma and Alpha. 

In 1951, Verne was drafted into the United States Army, taking basic training at Camp Breckenridge, Kentucky. He served with the Anti-Tank and Mine Platoon in Germany for 1½ years, spending two years in the U.S. Army before being honorably discharged.

On October 17, 1953, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas, Iowa, Verne was united in marriage to the love of his life, Alberta Mary Hackman. To this union four children were born.

Their first home was east of Waucoma where Verne worked, a year and a half, as a hired hand for Jack Adams. The couple later rented a farm Southwest of Waucoma for five years. In 1960, they moved to their farm six miles south of Lawler, Iowa where they farmed and raised dairy cattle, hogs, and beef. 

Verne was active in the Chickasaw County ASCS and in the Chickasaw County DHIA Association, of which he was the president for many years.

He was a member of Mt. Carmel Parish in Lawler where he was active as a lay minister and an usher.

Verne was a member of the American Legion Post #279 at Lawler which included terms of being the Vice Commander and Commander. He carried the American flag, leading the Dairy Day parade, for many years.

In 1991, the couple retired from farming and moved to Lawler. They went on several long trips after moving to town and kept on going to dances. Dancing was a recreation, and a joy, for all their years together.

When living in Lawler, he was a caretaker for the Senior Apartments for several years. He was an active member of the Senior Citizens group and did many volunteer jobs including delivering the Meals on Wheels.

He enjoyed morning coffee with the men at the café in town and playing cards with friends and walking. The most special thing in his life was his family. 

Verne is survived by his wife, Alberta; four children, Kathleen (Chad) Connelly of Guttenberg, Karen (Robert) Kleve of Clermont, Duane (Lori Lee) Bouska of St. Olaf and Daryl (Laure) Bouska of rural Waucoma; 15 grandchildren, Heaven, Colten, and Colin Connelly, Lori (Jason) Herrstrom, Melissa (Wendy) Chotiner, Jolene (Dustin) Meyer, Corey (Dawn) Kleve, Becky (Derek) Prostine, Craig (Kim) Kleve, Wendy (John) Crossett, LeAnn (Brian) Anderson, Danelle Bouska (Darrin VansCoy), Darin Bouska, Bridget and Lindsey Bouska; 17 great-grandchildren, Karli and Wyatt Herrstrom, Jace, Brinley, Callen Meyer, Lexie, Leah, Braxton Kleve, Ainsley, Jantzen, and Emery Prostine, Clay, Keigan, Maci Kleve, Joshua, Evelyn, and Benjamin Anderson; two sisters, Vera Rimrodt and Irma (Bob) Kime; two brothers, Joe Bouska and Cletus (Lorna) Bouska; brother and sister in laws, Doris Bouska, Mary Ann Hackman and Jeanette (Elmer) Buchheit; many neices, and nephews.

Also surviving are special family friends, Pat (Jane) Wedo, Randy (Melissa) Wedo and their children, Kendyl and Reid Wedo and Stephanie, Nick and Katie Wedo.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Mathilda (Schmitt) Hackman; brothers, John (Rosemary) Bouska, Clifford (Arlene Hackman) Bouska and James Bouska; sisters, Margaret (Sid) Diebler, Arlene (Frank) Vrzak and Donna (Leonard) Hrdlicka; brother and sisters in-law, Don Rimrodt, Ann Hackman, Arlene (Cliff) Bouska, George Hackman, Clarabelle (Howard) Taylor, Jeanne Bouska and Rose Bouska; several neices and nephews.

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Duane Barker

Duane M. ”Whitey” Barker, 73, of Elgin, Iowa passed away Saturday, January 16, 2016 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Duane Merlin, the son of Robert Eldon and Violet Grace (Ruroden) Barker, was born October 29, 1942 in Elgin, Iowa. 

He attended the Elgin Elementary School and graduated from Valley High School in 1960. 

He joined the National Guard while attending High School and served until being honorably discharged on February 19, 1964. 

Duane was united in marriage with Gloria Hyde on November 2, 1963 at the West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont, Iowa.

Duane lived in Elgin his entire life. He started working for John Falb and Sons at the age of 16, cleaning cars and eventually being promoted to bodywork.  In 1969, he worked for Gene O’Donnell and Standard Oil delivering LP gas and then worked for Lyle Medberry as an electrician.  He became the manager of Hydrogas LP and Convenience Store and purchased the convenience store in December of 1988.  Whitey retired in November of 2010.

Whitey was a member of the Elgin Lutheran Church, the Elgin Jaycees, and he was a member of the Elgin Fire Department for 25 years.

Whitey enjoyed spending time with his family and friends; spending time at the Mississippi River, fishing and boating; birdwatching, especially eagles; cooking and grilling; and working on things. He was a racing and sports fan, especially the Chicago Bears and the Iowa Hawkeyes; and he loved to hunt and dance.

Whitey is survived by his wife of 52 years, Gloria, of Elgin, Iowa; his son and daughter-in-law, Gregg and Joyce Barker of Hammond, Wis.; three grandchildren, Hannah Sturtz of Wickenburg, Ariz.; and Morgan and Mason Barker of Hammond, Wis.; a grandcat, Murphy; five sisters, Roberta (Elwood) Kuhens of Apache Junction, Ariz.; Sheila (Phil) Solheim of Clermont; Rosemary (Roger) Thomas of Elkader; Diana (Dean) Jennings of Tacoma, Wash.; and Cynthia Corbin of Elgin; one sister-in-law, Glenda Hyde of Cedar Rapids; and many nieces and nephews.

Whitey was preceded in death by his parents; one nephew, Darin Solheim; and a brother-in-law, Gary Hyde.

Funeral Services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016 at the Elgin Lutheran Church in Elgin, Iowa. Pastor Rusty Phillips was the officiant.

Visitation was held from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2016 at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home in Elgin, and one hour before services at the church on Wednesday.

A Private Family Inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elgin handled the arrangements for the family.

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Henry Bodensteiner, Jr.

Henry Bernard Bodensteiner, Jr, 77, of Houston, Texas passed away on Wednesday, January 27, 2016.

Henry was born on April 21, 1938, to Henry Bernard Bodensteiner and Julia Winters in St. Lucas, Fayette County, Iowa.

Henry was a business owner in the Houston area for 55 years and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Bernard Bodensteiner and Julia Winters; daughter, Kimberly; sister, Bernice Hauer; brother in law, Bob Cuvelier; and the mothers of his children.

Henry is survived by his children, Brian Bodensteiner, Blair Bodensteiner and Henry B. Bodensteiner, III; grandchildren, Kristina Ann Lozano - Bodensteiner, Kelly, Blain and Brett Bodensteiner; two great-grandchildren, Krystal Grace & Kymberli Michelle Lozano; brother and sister-in-law, Kilian and Elaine Bodensteiner; sister, Dolores Cuvelier; loving partner of 10 years, Jean Tatum; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Visitation was held from 5-8pm, with a Rosary at 7pm, Tuesday, February 2, 2016 at Pat H. Foley & Company.

A Funeral Service was held at 11am, Wednesday, February 3, 2016, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

Interment followed at Earthman Resthaven Cemetery in Houston, Texas.  6u6

David Anthony

David Allan Anthony, son of Robert and Martha Anthony, was born on December 30, 1965, in Ottumwa, Iowa.

David grew up in Fayette, Iowa, where he was baptized and confirmed in the United Methodist Church and attended Fayette Community Schools. David attended his last year of high school in Iowa City, Iowa, and later attended Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa.

David worked for the Chicago Central Railroad for two years. He was employed in the roofing trade for many years, performing demanding work that required strength, stamina, and endurance. He was proud of the work he did putting roofs on commercial buildings, including structures at The University of Iowa and a John Deere plant, among many others. In recent years he worked at the Fayette County Recycling Center in Fayette, retiring in 2014.

David loved to play the drums and possessed a genuine talent. While living in Iowa City his last year of high school, he played with a local band. He continued to meet up with musician friends on occasion in recent years, to jam and play music together.

David enjoyed swimming and reading and was a WW II history buff; he had a deep appreciation for and interest in Native American cultures and peoples. He enjoyed watching The History Channel, and he rooted for the Minnesota Vikings and the Iowa Hawkeyes. David loved animals and his two feline "kids" were constant companions.

David was happiest when manning the grill preparing supper. He had an unfailing sense of humor. David was an intelligent man who possessed a gentle nature and a big heart. He was often kinder to friends and strangers, than to himself.

David passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2016, at his home in West Union. He was 50 years old.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Marty Anthony, and his niece, Jackie Streeter.

He is survived by his sisters, Carol (David) Streeter of Pawleys Island, S.C., nephew Jason (Caroline) Streeter, N.J., and Lisa Anthony and nephews Kamil and Samuel Anthony, all of Iowa City.

Memorial services for David will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 13, 2016, at the United Methodist Church in Fayette, Rev. Hyeunmee Kang officiating.

The family will greet friends for one hour preceding services at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests friends may make a donation to your local animal shelter or food shelf or pantry, in David's name.

Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting David’s family.

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

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Nanfred Sand

Nanfred Stanley “Bud” Sand

1931-2016

Nanfred “Bud” Sand, 84, of Morgantown, WV, formerly of Ottawa, died on Monday, February 1, 2016 at the Vidant Medical Center, in Greenville.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 10, at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Ottawa, with Rev. David Ufkes, Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park with Full Military Rites conducted. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 9, at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.

Bud was born on May 6, 1931 in Ossian, IA, to Nanfred John and Sylvia (Forde) Sand. He married Carol Amundson on December 27, 1958 in Morris. Bud served in the US Navy during the Korean War as a Petty Officer Sea Bee, stationed in San Diego and Guam. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from Luther College in Decorah, IA and Master’s Degrees in History and Guidance Counseling from Northern Illinois University. He taught History, and was a Guidance Counselor at OTHS for over 30 years, and was also a wrestling coach.  Bud was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church,  Kiwanis Club, Illinois Teacher’s Association and the National Teacher’s Association. 

He is survived by his wife, Carol, 3 children, Kari (Dave) Sand-Jecklin, of Morgantown, WV, Krista (Eric) Iverson, of Ottawa, and John (Alyssa) Sand, of Jacksonville, NC, 11 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, 2 brothers, Richard Sand, of California, and Jacob Sand of Henderson, NV, and 5 sisters, Helen Sand Schaeffer, of Decorah, IA, Shirley Brainard, of Postville, IA, Marge Golden and Janet Pinch, of Henderson, NV, and Elaine Evans, of Indianola, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and 2 brothers, Robert and Greg Sand.

Pallbearers will be Richard Fergusen, Melvin Roth, Bob Hunt, Ron Slack, and Jim Harris, and Joel Soltis.  Honorary Pallbearers (all deceased) are Bill Hamilton, Joe Soltis, John Huber, and Rolf Demoll.

Memorials may be directed to the Semper Fi Fund, which provides assistance to post 9/11 wounded and critically ill members of the US Armed Forces, 825 College Blvd., Suite 102 PMB 609, Oceanside, CA 92057, or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com.

Mueller Funeral Home 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350  

815-434-4433

Donald Ellis

Donald Edward Ellis, 56, of Castalia, Iowa died Tuesday, February 2, 2016 at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, La Crosse, Wisconsin.  Donald was born July 9, 1959 to LeRoy and Marilyn (Bray) Ellis in Postville, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at the Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa. Donald attended Postville High School.

Donald was united in marriage with Angie Schmitt on January 29, 1983 at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa, to this union three children were born, Chris, Corey and Amber.  Donald worked for weatherization at Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation in Decorah, Iowa for many years.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, telling jokes, carpentry, social media and taking care of his lawn.  Most of all, he loved to spend time with his family, especially his granddaughters. 

Donald is survived by his wife, Angie Ellis of Castalia, Iowa; three children, Chris (Samantha) Ellis of Ossian, Iowa, Corey Ellis (Kylene Haugen, Fiancé) of Castalia, Iowa and Amber Ellis of Castalia, Iowa; two grandchildren, Zoey and Mayah Ellis; mother, Marilyn Meyer of Castalia, Iowa; sister, Deb (Floyd) Schmitt of Castalia, Iowa; brother, Scott Ellis (Jodi Elton, Special Friend) of Monona, Iowa and four sisters-in-law, Jenny (Duan) Funk of Winthrop, Iowa, Julie (Andy) Plozel of Postville, Iowa, Kristie (Dean) Baumler of Ossian, Iowa and Amanda Schmitt of Des Moines, Iowa.

Donald was preceded in death by his father, LeRoy Ellis; his sister, Sally Jo Meyer; step-father, Roland “Rolly” Meyer, mother-in-law, Ann Marie Schmitt; sister-in-law, Gina Imoehl; brother-in-law, Joseph Luke Schmitt; paternal grandparents, John and Carrie Ellis and maternal grandparents, Norman and Beulah Starkey.

Visitation will be Friday, February 5, 2016 from 4-7 pm at Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Ossian, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at Zion Lutheran Church, Castalia, Iowa with Rev. Kathy Wicks as the officiant.

Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery, Castalia, Iowa.

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

Harvey Hillesland

Harvey Hillesland, age 84, of Decorah, IA, formerly of Calmar, IA, died on Tuesday, February 2, 2016, at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, IA.

     Harvey Frederick Hillesland was born on July 26, 1931, the son of Ted and Lottie (Falnes) Hillesland near Conover, IA. He was baptized and confirmed at the Calmar Lutheran Church.  He attended grade school at Conover School and graduated from Calmar High School in 1949.  Harvey farmed for twenty years on the Flaskerud family farm and moved to Calmar and purchased Calmar Oil, and operated it until 1993, when he retired.  Harvey was united in marriage to Goldie Mae Wangsness on June 3, 1951, at the Calmar Lutheran Church.  To this marriage, three children were born: James, Barbara and Michael.  Harvey was volunteer fireman for the Calmar Fire Department, a member of the South Winn Golf Course and the Calmar Lutheran Church where he served on the Church Council.  Harvey’s hobby was woodworking and was always giving his family and friends unique items that he would make.  

     Harvey is survived by his loving wife of sixty-four years: Goldie Hillesland, Decorah, IA. Two children: Jim (Sue) Hillesland, Chicago, IL; and Barbara (Greg) Drew, Manchester, IA. Grandchildren: Kaia (friend, Jerad Winger) Humpal, Decorah, IA; Blake (Megan) Humpal, Charlotte, NC; Kirby (Ryan) Jipp, Brookfield, WI; and John (Rachel) Hillesland, Chicago, IL.  Great Grandchildren: Jordan and Kaylie Rommes, Jack Hillesland and Xavier Jipp. Two brothers: Glenn (Arnhild) Hillesland, Ames, IA, and Alton & Harriet Hillesland, Sydney, MT. Sister-in-law: Dorothy Sanders, Decorah, IA. Sisters and brothers-in-law: Colleen & Joe Fjelstad, Sun City West, AZ; Darryl & Carol Wangsness, Anoka, MN; and Chuck & Lorrie Wangsness, Sun Lakes, AZ.

      Harvey was preceded in death by his son: Michael “Mike” Hillesland on March 30, 2007. His parents: Ted & Lottie (Falnes) Hillesland. His father-in-law and mother-in-law: Clifford & Mabel Wangsness.  Brother: Dalos Hillesland. Son-in-law: Kenny Humpal in 1992.

Services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 8, at Calmar Lutheran Church in Calmar with Pastor Phillip Olson officiating.

Interment was held in Calmar Lutheran Cemetery in Calmar. 

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

Aleta Reeder

Aleta Leonore Reeder was born January 26, 1924 on the family farm in Clayton County near Luana, Iowa to Edward and Clara Leonore (Kuthe) Heins. She passed away Thursday morning February 11, 2016 at her daughter home in West Union, Iowa at the age of 92.

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

A public visitation was held Monday, February 15, 2016 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in West Union, IA.

Aleta was a homemaker and helped on the farm doing farm chores as needed. She had a large garden and canned vegetables and fruits for her family.

She enjoyed dancing, rodeos and listening to polka music.

Aleta received her education in the rural schools of Clayton County and was a member of United Methodist Church in West Union.

On March 8, 1947 Aleta was united in marriage with Roger R. Reeder at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, four children were born to this union, Diana, Duane, Roger and Russell.

Survivors include her four children; Diana Reeder of West Union, Duane (Rhonda) Reeder of Lawton, Iowa, Roger L. Reeder of Liberty, MO and Russell (Susie Hundley) of Elgin, four grandchildren; Tami Hostak, Chad (Theresa) Reeder, Natasha (Trevor) Widmann and Miranda Reeder, five great grandchildren; Adam and Tyler Hostak, Jace and Bode Reeder, and Lily Widmann, one sister; Darlene and several nieces and nephews and other relatives.

Aleta was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Roger on September 23, 2012, three bothers, Welmer, Harvey and Harold, and a daughter in law Dianne K. Reeder.

Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home of West Union, IA was in charge of arrangements.  7u7

Brady Kuennen

Brady Kuennen, age 36, of Waucoma, IA, died near Rockland, Michigan, from injuries he received in a snowmobile accident, on February 10, 2016.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by the Rev. Nick March at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 15, at St. Luke Catholic Church in St. Lucas.

Interment was in the church cemetery.

Casket bearers were Eric Kuehner, Craig Kuehner, Bruce Van Sickle, Matt Steffens, Lee Einck, Travis Gebel, Mike Carolan, Andy Van Sickle and Eric Stevens.

Honorary casket bearers were Brady’s cousins and uncles; his “camping family,” his bowling league, and neighbors.

Arrangements were handled by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home in Decorah. Brady Allan Kuennen was born on January 5, 1980, the son of Ron and Susan (Schmitt) Kuennen in Decorah, IA. 

Brady graduated from Turkey Valley High School in 1998.

While in high school he worked for Schmitt Fertilizer. 

He then attended NICC (Northeast Iowa Community College) in Calmar, IA, graduating with an Ag Business Degree. He farmed the family farms alongside his grandfather and father for many years.  In the off-season he did carpentry work for Terry Bouska Construction. 

He was united in marriage to Wendy Van Sickle on August 27, 2005, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas. To this union, they were blessed with three children: Brooklyn, Kendall and Blake.

Brady enjoyed camping, bowling and snowmobiling.  He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and Dallas Cowboy fan. 

Brady was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church, serving on the Church’s finance council and on the Board of the Farmer’s Union Coop. He also was a member of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and active with the St. Lucas Little League.

Brady was a loving and caring husband, father, son and brother, and will be missed by many.

Brady is survived by his wife: Wendy Kuennen, Waucoma, IA. Three children: Brooklyn, Kendall and Blake Kuennen. His parents: Ron and Susy Kuennen, Waucoma, IA. Two sisters:  Kim (Eric) Stevens, Iowa City, IA, and Kara (Lee) Einck, Waucoma, IA. His father-in-law and mother-in-law: Jeff and Donna Van Sickle, Waucoma, IA. Sisters and brothers-in-law: Nichole (Matt) Steffens, Festina, IA; Kim (Eric) Kuehner, Lawler, IA; Bruce (Kelsey) Van Sickle, North Liberty, IA; Andrew (Brittany) Van Sickle, North Liberty, IA; and Samantha (Sean) Flaherty, Apple Valley, MN. Nieces and nephews: Hudson Stevens, Hayden, Kort, Clete and Blair Steffens, Emmett, Gretta and Elsie Kuehner, Esther Van Sickle, Liam and Leyton Van Sickle. Grandparents: Victoria Schmitt, West Union, IA; Phyllis Van Sickle, Fayette, IA; and Evelyn “Sis” Wurzer, Hawkeye, IA. Aunts and Uncles: Nancy Roush, Cedar Rapids, IA; Gloria Wagner, West Union, IA; Sally (Mike) Hensley, Kerrville, TX; Debbie (Gus) Kapnisis, West Union, IA; Kathy (Brian) Dunt, West Union, IA; Mike (Janet) Schmitt, Waucoma, IA; Mary (Ken) Bouska, Chatfield, MN; Mark (Karen) Schmitt, New Hampton, IA; Marlene (Terry) Bouska, Hawkeye, IA; Marvin (Traci) Schmitt, Waucoma, IA; Deb (Neil) Ratzlaff, Omaha, NE; Jim (Kelly) Van Sickle, Laurens, IA; Michelle Van Sickle, Oelwein, IA; Jon (Bobbie) Van Sickle, Fredericksburg, IA; Carol (Don) Zilmer, Broken Arrow, OK; Dean (Diane) Wurzer, Hawkeye, IA; Allan (Joyce) Wurzer, Waucoma, IA; Inez (Steve) Scholbrock, Denver, CO; Faye (Floyd) Winter, Waucoma, IA; Sheila (Randy) Bratrud, Kensett, IA;  and Norma (Duane) Frey, Lisbon, IA, along with many great aunts, uncles and cousins, and his dog, Duke.

Brady was preceded in death by his grandparents: Al and Norma Kuennen, Bernie Schmitt, George Van Sickle and Edwin Wurzer. One brother-in-law: Nathan Van Sickle. Three uncles: Joel Van Sickle, Jerry Van Sickle and Paul Wagner.

Memorials may be given in memory of Brady to the Brady Kuennen Memorial fund.           7u7

Chester Arthur Bates Jr.

Chester Arthur "Junior" Bates, Jr., 67, of Blackwell, Oklahoma, passed away Saturday evening, January 23, 2016 at the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.

Born October 9, 1948 in Denver, Colorado, he was the son of Chester Arthur Bates, Sr., and Hallie Marie (Frye) Bates.  He was raised and received his education in Arkansas City and graduated from high school.  He then attended Cowley County Community College for two years.  Junior joined the United States Army in August 1967.  He served during Vietnam and was stationed at Ft. Carson, Colorado.  He received his honorable discharge in 1973. 

He was united in marriage to Neva "Delores" Wilson on March 17, 1969 in Newkirk, Oklahoma.  The couple made their home in Winfield.  They had three children.  Junior worked as an oil field welder in the oil fields when he was younger.  He most recently worked as a Security Guard for Wells Fargo at General Electric. 

He enjoyed raccoon hunting and fishing, as well as tending his vegetable gardens and polishing silver.  He loved to build and weld things. 

His family includes:

His wife:  Delores Bates of Blackwell, OK;

His children:  Sheila Marie Schroeder and husband, Robert of Calmar, IA; Jeffrey Alan Bates of Arkansas City; Kristen Michele Davis and husband, Adrian of Wichita;

His siblings:  Irene Walitalo and husband, Ed of Littleton, CO; Shirley Adams and husband, Robert of Arkansas City; Charlotte Stout and husband, Ervin of Arkansas City; Carl Bates and wife, Ruby of Littleton, CO; Jerry Bates and wife, Debbie of Harlington, TX; Ray Bates and wife, Gail of Menisaae, CA; Lloyd Bates and wife, Carol of Lakewood, CO; Durrel Bates and wife, Joyce of Denver, CO; Ben Bates and wife, Shirle of Springfield; MO;

His grandchildren:  Jesse, Kelsey, Korey, Kate, Kelley, Paige, Olivia, Wesley, Kristopher; and

His 6 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hallie and Chester, Sr., step-mother, Elizabeth Bates and his brother, Joe Bates. 

Services with Military Committal Honors will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. at Miles Funeral Service.  The family will greet visitors on Wednesday evening from 5 to 7 P.M.  Private inurnment will take place at a later date.

A memorial has been established to help defray funeral expenses.  Contributions may be made through the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made at www.milesfuneralservice.com.

Wilbur Nading

On Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2016 Wilbur Eugene Nading returned to his heavenly home to be reunited with his Lord and his wife, Doris.  He died suddenly, in his apartment at Stoney Brook Village in West Union.

Wilbur was born November 6, 1925 to Rupert and Lytle (Steefer) Nading in Littleport, Iowa. 

Wilbur’s father died in a farming accident when he was five and his mother remarried Ernie Brockmeyer.

Wilbur was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1945 and served with the 17^th infantry.  He trained at Fort Snelling and served proudly as a Military Policeman for 18 months in Seoul, South Korea.

On November 16, 1947, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa, Wilbur was united in marriage with Doris Schmidtke of Oelwein, Iowa.  God blessed this union with three children.

Wilbur and Doris spent the next 23 years as dairy farmers in the Hazleton, Stanley, and Oelwein area.  During this time he also owned and operated a livestock trucking service.

In 1972, Wilbur and Doris moved to Elgin and purchased the Park View Tap. They owned and worked in this business for seventeen years. 

They enjoyed camping and had a place on the river at Big River Campground in Prairie du Chien for over 30 years.  This was a favorite for all the grandchildren and Grandpa loved sharing his love of the outdoors, and especially his love of fishing with each one of them.

Another favorite of Wilbur’s was decorating his house for the Christmas season.  He would put up thousands of lights and play Christmas music for the enjoyment of anyone who wished to drive by.

Of all the things Wilbur did in his 90 years of life, he would tell you his best years were spent behind the wheel of a “Big Yellow School Bus”.  For 35 years he drove bus for the Valley Community School District. Every student was special and he took personal responsibility for their safety and welfare.

In January of 2013, shortly after Doris’ death, Wilbur moved to Stoney Brook Village in West Union. He very much enjoyed the residents and staff and quickly became close to all who knew him.

He leaves behind to honor his memory, son, Terry (Judy) Nading of Oelwein; son, Larry (Carole) Nading of Elgin; and daughter, Cindy (Gary) Butikofer of Elgin; one brother, Franklin Brockmeyer; three sisters-in-law, Doris (Tony) Nading, Dorothy Schmidtke, and Dorothy Willingham; nine grandchildren, Jodi (Jason) Meyer, Jenny (Joshua) Dearborn, Jessie (Jason) Henry, Scott (Maryna) Nading, Mackenzie Nading, Dawn (Cody) Halverson, Cory (Lori) Butikofer, Misty LaPlant, and Tony Butikofer; 16 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Makaela, and Jacob Meyer; Dakota, Emmalee, Hunter, and Brookelynn Henry; Madelyn and Isabella Dearborn; Macy and Tessa Halverson; Allison Butikofer; Kaylee LaPlant; Rylin Butikofer; Nolan McKenna; Charlotte Nading; and a host of other family and many, many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris; parents, Rupert and Lytle; stepfather, Ernie Brockmeyer; two brothers, Tony and Richard; one sister, Mildred; granddaughter, Nicki Jo Nading; and a great-granddaughter, Kara Meyer.

Funeral Services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at the Elgin Lutheran Church in Elgin, Iowa.

Pastor Rusty Phillips was the officiant.

A Visitation was held from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at the Elgin Lutheran Church in Elgin, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Wednesday.

Interment was held in the Elgin Cemetery with Military Rites by the Elgin American Legion.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elgin, Iowa handled the arrangements for the family.        8u8

Bradley Brockman

Bradley Brockman, 86, of Ossian, Iowa passed away Friday, February 19, 2016 at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, Iowa. 

Bradley Joseph, the son of William and Ruth (Schwinefus) Brockman, was born January 31, 1930 and was raised in Ossian, Iowa. 

He was baptized and confirmed at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian. 

He attended de Sales Elementary and High School, graduating in 1947. 

After school, Brad worked for John Deere in Dubuque, Iowa for six months before returning to Ossian to work with his father in Brockman’s Grocery Store.  After his father’s death, Brad purchased the grocery store in 1960 and operated it for over 30 years.  Using a family recipe, the grocery store was well known for “Brockman’s Rope Sausage”.  In 1992, Brad sold the business to his sons, Barry and Byron.

  Brad was united in marriage with Arlene Bodensteiner on June 5, 1956 in St. Lucas, Iowa.  To this union, four children, Barry, Byron, Belle, and Brenda were born.  Arlene preceded Brad in death on September 23, 2011.

He was a member of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Rosary Society, and the Knights of Columbus Council 2073.

Brad was an avid golfer and was a member of the Silver Springs Country Club in Ossian.

He and Arlene enjoyed vacations around the United States, Spain, Bahamas, and Acapulco. 

He attended different Ossian Coffee Clubs and was a member of the Crown Club.

Brad is survived by his children, Byron Brockman of Ossian, Iowa; Belle (Roy) Guenther of West Union, Iowa; and Brenda Brockman Ossian, Iowa; two grandchildren, Bobbi-Jo (Dan) Molokken of Decorah, Iowa; and Levi Guenther of West Union, Iowa; one great granddaughter, Aubriana Molokken; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; and nieces and nephews.

Brad was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene; a son, Barry Brockman; his parents; a sister, Mary Lou Welsh; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; and a nephew.      

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2016 at St Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, Iowa.  Rev. Robert Gross will be the celebrant.

A Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, February 26, 2016 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and one hour before services at the church on Saturday. A Scripture Service will be held at the church at 3 p.m. on Friday and a Knights of Columbus Rosary Service will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday at the church.

Inurnment will be held at the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery.

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Ossian, Iowa is handling the arrangements for the family.           8u8

Frances Weber

Funeral services for Frances M. Weber, 97, of Sumner will be held at 2 p.m. today (Wednesday) at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner.

Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation was set for 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Sumner and will continue for one hour preceding services at the church today.

Local survivors include son Jim (Carolyn) Weber of West Union.

Harriet Moss

Harriet Moss, 82, of West Union, died Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016, at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 26, at Fayette Community Church in Fayette.

Burial will follow in West Union Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at Burnham-Wood & S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in West Union.

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

Robert Russell

Robert Russell, 70, passed away February 19, 2016 at his home in Ames.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 26 at Adams Funeral Home in Ames.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 27 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Ames.

Burial will be at the Walnut Grove Cemetery in rural Ames.

Robert Benjamen Russell was born May 23, 1945 to Charles F. and Edna J. (Million) Russell in Des Moines, Iowa.

He graduated from Des Moines Technical High School in 1963 and served his mission in California from 1966 to 1968.

Robert majored in art while a student at BYU from 1968 to 1972, and as an artist enjoyed working with metals, paints, and sketching with various mediums.

Robert and Carolyn Crandall were married February 14, 1996 at The Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Glenview, Ill.

Robert worked for Mid-American Energy for many years until his retirement in 2007.

Robert was a nature lover, an avid reader, and wrote much in his journals. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening, landscaping, and traveling. It can be said he never met a stranger and would give you the shirt off his back. Family was very important to Robert.

Robert is survived by his wife, Carolyn Russell of Ames; his son, Robert (Jaeeun) Russell; five daughters, Amber (Bryan) Zepeda, April (Ryan Ewing) Barden, Joy Walpole, Jana (Aziz Gokdemir) Lynott, and Jean (Abdul) Muhammad; 10 grandchildren; his sister, Alma Isenberger; and two brothers, Donald Russell and Charles (Heather) Russell.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Charlene Vander Heide; and his daughter, Kathleen Lynott.

Memorials may be directed to The Richard M. Shultz American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, 2500 University Ave. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414.

Adams Funeral Home in Ames is assisting the family with arrangements.

Condolences and photos may be shared at www.adamssoderstrum.com.

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Merle Anderson

Merle Anderson, 88, of Clermont died Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016, at Palmer Lutheran Health Center, West Union.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 26, at First Baptist Church, Elgin.

Burial will follow at Elgin Cemetery, Elgin.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, and also for one hour before services at the church on Friday.

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

Lisa (Klinge) Burt

Lisa Lee (Klinge) Burt was born on July 24, 1959 in Postville, Iowa to Clifford A. and Naomi J. (Siebrecht) Klinge. After 12 years in Postville, the family moved to Clermont in 1971 where she attended high school, graduating in 1977. Lisa was a sports enthusiast. She ran track in the spring, was the catcher on the softball team in the summer, played basketball in the winter, and was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs. She was also a bit of an equestrian; she and her horse "Cissy" spent many days exploring the countryside.

After high school she attended Drake University where she served as a Resident Assistant and graduated in 1981 with a Journalism degree. Following family tradition, she worked in the poultry and egg business developing newsletters and working with the sales force.

In 1987, she married James Burt whom she met while at Drake. Together they made their home in Rochester, Michigan. During this time, Lisa worked for Pillsbury Foods and General Mills before deciding to be at home full-time with her daughters, Lauren and Carson.

The Burt family loves boating and all water sports. Lisa decidedly nicknamed the ski boat her quarter horse, and was an accomplished slalom skier. With her daughters competitively swimming year round, Lisa was an active member of Stoney Creek High School Athletic Booster Club, enjoyed coordinating volunteers for swim meets, and cheered on her girls at SCHS and Hillsdale College meets. She also loved to comb the shores of Torch Lake for Petoskey stones and sea glass.

Gardening was another love of Lisa's. Her flower-filled deck was her favorite summertime oasis and she could most often be found there in the evening with a cold beer or margarita.

Lisa was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in June of 2013 and was 56 when she passed away in her home on February 5, 2016. Jim, Lauren, and Carson were with her.

She was preceded in death by her father Cliff, who called her Squeaker.

She is survived by her husband Jim, daughter Lauren (fiancé Jacob Richter), daughter Carson, mother Naomi Klinge, brother Lew Klinge, sister Jody (Gaylord) Wooge, brother Kirby (Kathy) Klinge, father-in-law Dr. Ronald Burt, brother-in-law Gerald Burt, nephews Chaldon and Courtney Wooge, Aaron and Ryan Klinge, and grand-nephew and niece, Alexander Wooge and Evelyn Wooge.

Dear Lisa, you will be missed by all of us.

Michael Cooley

Michael Ray Cooley, 64, Denver, Colorado, formerly of Elgin, Iowa passed away  Friday, January 29, 2016 at the Denver Hospice House, Denver, CO. 

          Mike was born on April 19,1951 to Alta (Seago) Cooley and Billy Cooley at Iowa City, Iowa. From that union, another son, David was born. Alta then married Glen Odegard, and to this union, Glenda  and Robert were born.

          Mike graduated from Valley High School in 1969.  After high school, Mike enlisted in the Navy for 4 years. While in the Navy, he got to travel the world, and went to Finland, Scotland, France and a trip to South America. He also got to go through the Panama Canal. He went to Newport, RI, and made numerous trips to the Caribbean. Mike was honorably discharged.

          Mike came back home after the Navy and held numerous jobs. He married Dorene Saboe in 1973, and had one son, Jamie. They later divorced.

          It was then that he discovered Truck driving. He moved to Omaha to help out with a road project. There he met his wife of 37 years, Judith Ann Kruse.  Mike and Judy had one son, Chad Michael Cooley.

          His "job" of truck driving became his life's work for over 40 years.  Mike travelled 49 of the 50 states, plus most of the Canadian province. A few of the companies he worked for were: Cessford Construction, Transcon, P.I.E. and NW.  After NW closed, he decided to buy his own truck.  He worked for several freight companies until finally getting the trucking job he had always wanted. He would pull new and used empty trailers for Trailer Transit, to the dealers, or straight to the customers. Mike said his greatest accomplishments while driving was to haul the Rolling Stones while they were touring the US and Canada. He got to see them in Halifax, Nova Scotia and Glendale, AZ.  He and a friend made a trip all the way on the Al-Can Highway. A trip that was 4500 miles long. He estimated he drove between 6-7 million miles in his trucking career.

          Anyone who knew Mike, knew he had made as many friends as the miles he drove. He would always think of family or friends, if he was near their area, he would give them a call and be sure to stop in. Mike, being the "eternal teenager" always had a love of cars, trucks or anything that would run. He and Judy spent much time and effort to restore a 1948 Ford. He loved watching shows on TV that would restore old cars and trucks. He loved going to NASCAR races, and to hockey games, especially to watch the Colorado Avalanche. 

          Those who are left to cherish his life and memories are his wife, Judy; son, Chad; his faithful trucking companion, Kruzer; sister, Glenda (Kelly ) Koehn; brother, Robert Odegard; sister-in-laws, Margo Cooley; Kay Olesen; Debby (Al) Larson; Marlena Welter; Aunt, Joanne Odegard; Uncles, Hubert (Luveryl) Seago; Ervin Nyberg; Ron Rohrig. Plus many other nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

          He was preceded in death by his mother, Alta; step-father, Glen Odegard; brother, David Cooley; His mother-in-law and father-in-law, Marceline and Adolph Kruse. Also, many aunts, uncles, cousins, family and friends.

Ivera Leyh

Ivera Verona Leyh, 99, of Sumner, Iowa died Monday, February 15, 2016 at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette, Iowa. Ivera was born on December 25, 1916 to Marshall and Alma (Moore) Perry in Castalia, Iowa. She attended school in Castalia. Ivera was baptized in the Jordan River while touring Israel with her husband, Alfred. She was united in marriage with Gottlieb Limkemann in 1940 in Toledo, Iowa. After Gottlieb’s death in 1980, Ivera was united in marriage with Alfred Leyh in 1981 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.

Ivera was a member of the United Methodist Church, Bloomfield Township Historical Society, CMH Auxiliary and the Red Hat Society. Over the years she worked at Iowa Turkey Products and the Monona Wire Factory. In 1981, Ivera moved from Castalia to Sumner and attended Union United Methodist Church and Faith Evangelical Church. She enjoyed playing dominos and making ceramic dolls and angels.

Ivera is survived by her daughter and stepson, Pauline and Orval Leyh of Sumner, Iowa; stepdaughters, Colleen Rolfes of LeMars, Iowa and Gloria (Harvey) Schneider of Loganville, Wisconsin; seventeen grandchildren, thirty-one great grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.

Ivera was preceded in death by her two husbands, Gottlieb Limkemann and Alfred Leyh; her son, Gerald Limkemann, her parents, Marshall and Alma Perry; sister, Izetta Walker; stepson, Rugene Leyh; and stepdaughter, Ronna Slater.

Visitation will be Thursday, February 18, 2016 from 4-7 pm at Faith Evangelical Church, Sumner, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Friday.

Funeral Services will be at 10:30 am on Friday, February 19, 2016 at Faith Evangelical Church, Sumner, Iowa with Pastor Robert Atherton as the Officiant.

Burial will be held at a later date a Pleasant View Cemetery, Castalia, Iowa.

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

Robert Lambert

Robert M. Lambert, 95, of Fayette died Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.

Services will be held at a later date. Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family with arrangements.

A full obituary will appear in next week’s paper.