Orland Landsgard

Orlan Sylvester Landsgard, 91, of Gunder, Iowa died Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at Barthell OES Home in Decorah, Iowa.

Orlan was born on February 25, 1925, on the family farm near Churchtown, west of Lansing, Iowa, to George and Rosina (Torkelson) Landsgard.

Orlan was baptized on March 2, 1925, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Lansing, Iowa, and confirmed on June 30, 1940, at Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder, Iowa, by the Rev. S.J. Stranjord.

He attended Gunder Country School and graduated from Postville High School.

Orlan was united in marriage to Corrine Rypestol on July 10, 1971, at Marion Lutheran Church.

Orlan farmed his entire working life and enjoyed traveling with Corrine, bowling with friends, creating special wood carved gifts for family members and performing magic tricks.

He was a faithful member of the Marion Lutheran Church, serving on numerous boards, singing in the church choir and teaching Sunday school.

Orlan served on the Strawberry Point Lutheran Home Board of Directors for many years.

He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include his nieces and nephews, Brenda (David) Carlson, Gary (Marsha) Landsgard, Daryl (Shirley Best) Landsgard, Alan Landsgard, Linda Schlein, Loren (Lori) Landsgard, Larry Landsgard, Lynn (Paul) Hauer, Mark Landsgard, Laurie (Alan) Burkhart; several great-nieces and great-nephews; sister-in-law, Norene Landsgard; foster-son, Elwin (Laurie) Dirksen; grandchildren, Amanda (Jon) Bredeweg, Andrew (Alaina) Dirksen, Aaron (fiancé, Paula Landis) Dirksen and seven great-grandchildren.

Orlan was preceded in death by his parents, George and Rosina Landsgard; his wife, Corrine Landsgard, on May 25, 2010; his siblings, Geraldine Landsgard in infancy, Gordon Landsgard, Maurice (Marjorie) Landsgard and Geraldine (Leo) Friederich.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be directed to the Marion Lutheran Cemetery, Gunder, Iowa.

Funeral Service was held Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 3:00 pm at Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder, Iowa with Rev. Marshall Hahn as the Officiant. There was also a one hour visitation at the church before services.

Burial followed in Marion Lutheran Cemetery, Gunder, Iowa.

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

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Postville, Iowa helped the family with arrangements.     14u14

Carolyn (Broghammer) Leehy

Carolyn Eulalia (Broghammer) Leehy passed away peacefully at the age of 89, on March 26, 2016, at the Lyngblomsten Care Center in Saint Paul, Minn.

She was born to Dr. Francis and Margaret (Leahy) Broghammer on April 29, 1926, in Superior, Wisconsin.

Carolyn graduated from West Union High School in 1944. She then studied art at Clark College in Dubuque, Iowa and the Minneapolis School of Art. Later she attended Iowa State Teachers College and taught kindergarten in Vinton, Iowa.

After returning to West Union, she was united in marriage to Joseph Leehy on Dec. 31, 1960, at Holy Name Catholic Church. They eventually settled in Sparta, Wis., where Carolyn worked at Fort McCoy as a management assistant.

Carolyn retired to West Union, where she enjoyed playing bridge, sewing and spending time with family and friends.

Carolyn is survived by her sons, Thomas (Lisa) Leehy, Gurnee, IL and John (Melanie) Leehy, Falcon Heights, MN; grandchildren, Colleen Leehy and Matthew Leehy; sister, Mary Margaret (Phil) Schmidt and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her former husband, Joseph; sister, Anna Louise Smith; twin brother, Charles Broghammer and son, Michael.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 2, at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union. A visitation was held in the church one hour prior to the service.    

Memorials may be directed to the family, which will be donated to Holy Name Catholic Church.

     14u14

Lawrence Jirak

Lawrence C. “Larry” Jirak age 77 of Lawler, IA, died Saturday, March 26, 2016, at the Winneshiek Medical Center, in Decorah.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 1, 2016, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Lawler with Rev. Nick March celebrating the Mass. Lectors for the service were Nancy Upmeyer and Gladys Hruska. Presenting the offertory gifts were grandchildren, Kelli Jirak, Elsie Jenkinson and Asher Jirak. 

Interment was in Sacred Heart Cemetery – Reilly Ridge, rural Lawler with Craig Jirak, Marty Jirak, Debbie Jirak, Brandi Jenkinson, Ryann Jenkinson and Kori Jirak as pallbearers. 

Friends greeted the family 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, March 31, 2016, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Lawler where there was a 7:45 p.m. parish scripture service. Visitation continued an hour prior to the Mass at the church on Thursday.

Arrangements were with Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Lawler.  

Online condolences for Larry's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Lawrence Clarence “Larry” Jirak was born February 11, 1939, in New Hampton, IA, the son of Clarence and Viola (Cervenka) Jirak.

He received his education in the Utica #4 country school and was a 1956 graduate of the New Hampton High School.

As a young man, he began working on the farm for his father and grandfather.

On June 6, 1962, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas, he married Edna Langreck. To this union two children were born and in 1971 and 1973, the couple adopted Laura and Chris respectively.

Larry and Edna farmed and fed-out cattle their entire married life.

He also sold Pioneer Seed Corn for over 43 years and was a co-leader for the local 4-H for over 10 years. Larry was in addition, a director at the Sacred Heart Cemetery for over 40 years.

Larry and Edna traveled the world together, and with other couples, to many points in the world, including Europe, New Zealand, Ireland and Australia.

He loved his annual fishing trip to Canada with his buddies for over 20 years. Larry enjoyed playing cards and bowling, having one perfect 300 game. He especially loved time with his grandchildren, skiing, biking and canoeing. 

Survivors include his wife, Edna; two sons, Jeff (Cindy) Jirak of Lawler, Chris Jirak of New Hampton; one daughter, Laura (Austin Otto) Jenkinson of Dennison; nine grandchildren, Craig Jirak, Marty Jirak, Debbie Jirak, Brandi Jenkinson, Ryann Jenkinson, Elsie Jenkinson, Kori Jirak, Kelli Jirak, and Asher Jirak; two step-grandchildren, Elsie Otto and Wynn Otto; one brother, Dave Jirak of Lawler; two sisters, Yvonne Sadler of Madison, WI, Janell Jirak of Minneapolis; his right-hand-man for over 23 years, Scott (Carrie) Bohaty of New Hampton; three exchange students, Henk Kuiper of The Netherlands, Alfredo Bouza of Spain, Rodrigo Naves of Brazil.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Deborah in 1969, his parents, one sister, Geraldine Tigges.      14u14

Kim Zweibohmer

Kim Zweibohmer, 58, of Ossian, Iowa passed away Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at his home in Ossian. Kimball Jon, the son of Leonard and Eunice Marie (Lansing) Zweibohmer, was born May 11, 1957 in Decorah, Iowa. He attended elementary and middle school at St. Francis de Sales Catholic School in Ossian and graduated from South Winneshiek High School in 1975. Kim attended Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Kim was a deejay in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area for many years.  He returned to Ossian in 2004.  Kim was a manager at the Decorah Subway and was currently working at Nordic Express in Decorah.

Kim enjoyed staying in contact with his friends through Facebook and collecting Christopher Radko Ornaments.  He loved Christmas, shopping, and staying current with all types of music. He was also an Avon dealer.

Kim was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and the Rosary Society.

Kim is survived by his brother, Shawn (Shelley) Zweibohmer of Charles City, Iowa; his sister, Amy (Brad) Moudry of Protivin, Iowa; nieces and nephews, Austin, Levi, and Kaylie Klimesh of Protivin; Breanna and Ty Moudry of Protivin; Rachel McMahan of Orange Park, Florida; Zach Salisbury of West Union, Iowa; Alyssa Salisbury of Charles City; and Jordan Klimesh of Calmar, Iowa; great-nieces and great-nephews, Jayden and Aryana Pentecost of Charles City; and Brianna, Tyler, Zackary, and Noah McMahan of Orange Park, Florida; his aunts, Lorraine Kelly; Marie Monroe; Barb Lansing; and Donna Lansing; his cats, Adam and Beaker; and several cousins.

Kim was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Eunice; his brother, Randall, who died January 15, 2006; a nephew, Joseph, who died in infancy; his special friend, Ron Geiman; his maternal grandparents, Joseph and Mathilda Lansing; his paternal grandparents, John and Justine Zweibohmer; aunts, Dolores Olson, Pat Zweibohmer, Corrine Lensing, Delores Lansing, and Marcelite Hinders; and uncles, Norbert Lansing, Jerry Lansing, Orville Olson, Paul Kelly, Norbert Zweibohmer, Art Zweibohmer, Claus Hinders, Ralph Lensing, and Curtis Monroe.  

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, 2016 at St Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, Iowa.  Rev. Robert Gross will be the celebrant.

A Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 1, 2016 at Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home in Ossian and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

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.

Joseph Schildmeyer

­­ Joseph Schildmeyer, 86, of Ossian, Iowa died Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at Ossian Senior Hospice, Ossian, Iowa. Joseph Henry was born on March 27, 1930 to Henry and Elizabeth (Wülf) Schildmeyer in St. Lucas, Iowa. He attended St. Francis de Sales Catholic School through the eighth grade.  Joseph was united in marriage with Caroline Holthaus on September 29, 1952.

Joseph was fascinated by the weather. He shared that thrill with anyone who was brave enough to stay on the porch with him as the storms rolled in. He loved his 4-wheeler as it gave him the freedom to explore the farm when his physical abilities were limited. Giving grandchildren rides was a great joy. He looked forward to the day when new additions to the family were granted their first ride with grandpa. He came back many times, very gingerly with a sleeping toddler draped over the gas tank secured by his loving grip. He was an avid follower of politics while cunning to avoid controversial discussions. Beginning every day with coffee around the kitchen table with family and friends was a daily ritual and an anticipated event for him. Joseph’s contribution to the coffee time discussion typically injected humor and wisdom. Reminiscing about farming practices of days gone by was his legacy to his family as a bridge to the past. Repair rather than replace is his most notable talent. This is evidenced by his mint condition line of Oliver and White field ready tractors. Not only have these antique machines been a pride for him to own, they were his working fleet. Therefore his hobby by necessity was scouring the Midwest territory for replacement parts. There are cherished works of his repair art scattered throughout the museum called his farm and serve as a reminder to his family of his quiet and humble talent.

Joseph is survived by his wife of sixty-three years, Caroline; his six children, Randal Schildmeyer of Cedar Rapids, Dale (Julie) Schildmeyer of Ossian, Sandra Bishop of West Union, Nancy (Gary) McIntyre of Hawkeye, Michael Schildmeyer of Ossian and Patty (James) Stammeyer of Ossian; special friends, Jerry (Eileen Courtney) Hemesath; fifteen grandchildren, Mindy (Jaime) McLain of Circle Pines, Minnesota, Samantha (Matt) Schutte of Spillville, Iowa, Amy Schildmeyer (Grayline Ross) of Columbus, Ohio, Gayle (Jacob) Baker of Berwick, Illinois, Renae (Matt) Main of Des Moines, Iowa, Kyle (Hannah) Bishop of West Union, Iowa, Troy Bishop of West Union, Iowa, Heather Darling (Jacob Groth) of New Hampton, Iowa, Allison McIntyre (Dan Okonek) of La Crosse, Wisconsin, Benjamin McIntyre of Hawkeye, Iowa, Alex Stammeyer of Fort Rucker, Alabama, Alex Upton of Ossian, Iowa, Kayla Stammeyer of Ossian, Iowa, Kerrigan Upton of Ossian, Iowa and Alayna Stammeyer of Ossian, Iowa; eight great-grandchildren, Jameson and Kaelyn McLain, Baby Schutte, Payden Bishop, Mariah, Mallory and Camren Darling, and Whitney Okonek; two sisters, Sister Elizabeth Ann “Margaret” Schildmeyer of Michigan City, Indiana and Frances (William) Topf of Orange, California; and his sisters-in-law, Dorothy Holthaus of Cresco, Iowa, Lillian Holthaus of Decorah, Iowa and Agnes Riha of Decorah, Iowa.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Elizabeth; Siblings, Bruno (Judie) Schildmeyer, Mary (Karl) Apel, Agnes (Omer) Topf, Ann Schildmeyer and William Schildmeyer; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Felix and Agnes Holthaus; brothers-in-law, August (Ethel) Holthaus, Ralph (Olivia) Holthaus, Rudy (Germaine) Holthaus, Severin Holthaus, Francis (Luella) Holthaus and Ed Riha and one sister-in-law, Rosemary Holthaus.

 Visitation will be Sunday, April 3, 2016 from 3-7 pm with a 3:00 pm Scripture Service at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian, Iowa. There will also be a one hour visitation before mass time at the church on Monday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am on Monday, April 4, 2016 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in 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.

Geraldine Steffens

Geraldine “Gerry” Steffens, age 90, of Decorah, IA, died on Friday, April 8, 2016, at Aase Haugen Senior Services in Decorah, IA.

A Celebration of the Life and Memory of Geraldine will be held at 11 a.m. today (Wednesday, April 13) at Decorah Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. Dave Sorenson and the Rev. Charis Combs-Lay will officiate.

Interment will be in Phelps Cemetery, Decorah. Casket bearers will be Geraldine’s grandchildren Kristin Carpenter, Brian Wagner, Renee Greiner, Randy Wagner, Alex Steffens, Lynnette Koopman, and Trent Zhao.

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

Geraldine Mary Ann “Gerry” (Stortz) Steffens was born on August 21, 1925, the daughter of Walter and Luella (Stoskopf) Stortz near Decorah, Iowa.

Gerry attended country school in Canoe Township and graduated from Decorah High School in 1943. Gerry attended Luther College and did secretarial work in Ohio.  She returned to Decorah and worked for the Winneshiek County Treasurer’s Office.

Gerry was united in marriage to Erbie Steffens on September 3, 1950, at First Lutheran Church in Decorah. To this union, four children were born: Larry, Robin, Cheryl and Mark.

Gerry became a stay-at-home mother when the children were born and helped on the family dairy farm.

She enjoyed baking, making special cinnamon rolls for Sunday mornings as well as always having cookies on hand. Gerry was a busy lady, sewing and taking care of her chickens, feeding calves and taking care of her flower and rose gardens. She loved all animals.

Gerry and Erbie enjoyed traveling taking bus trips, traveling to Europe, and attending National Holstein Conventions throughout the United States. 

Gerry taught Sunday School and was also a 4-H leader. Gerry was a member of Decorah Lutheran Church and the Ladies Circle and enjoyed buttering lefse for the Nordic Fest.

She entered the Aase Haugen Home in March 2014.

Geraldine is survived by her husband: Erbie Steffens, Decorah, IA.  Four children: Larry (Karen) Steffens, Cedar Falls, IA; Robin Hansen, Decorah, IA; Cheryl (Don) Wagner, Farmersburg, IA; and Mark Steffens, Decorah, IA. Seven grandchildren: Kristin (Kelly) Carpenter, Renee (Nate) Greiner, Alex Steffens, Trent (Teng) Zhao, Brian Wagner, Randy (Samantha) Wagner and Lynnette (Ryan) Koopman. Four great grandchildren: Beau and Dane Greiner, Ben Carpenter and Thomas Zhao. Sisters-in-law: Hazel Stortz, Decorah, IA, and Anita Parsons, West Union, IA. Brothers-in-law: Lester Steffens, West Union, IA, and Reuben (Mary) Steffens, Clermont, IA, along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Gerry was preceded in death by her parents: Walter and Luella (Stoskopf) Stortz.  Brothers: Robert Stortz and Erlin (Agnes) Stortz.  Sisters-in-law: Leona Steffens and Edna Steffens.  Brother-in-law: Jack Parsons.        15u15

Ruth Haw

Rachel Kirchhoff

Rachel A. Kirchhoff, 90, of Sumner, died Wednesday, April 6, 2016, at her rural Sumner home.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 11, 2016, at Union United Methodist Church of rural Sumner with Rev. Julie Ahrens officiating.  Interment will follow at the Church Cemetery.  Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, April 10^th , at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Sumner and for one hour preceding services at the church on Monday. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.

Rachel Alice, daughter of Robert and Olive (Duhrkopf) Rhea was born, July 14, 1925, in Grundy Center, Iowa. She received her education in the Sumner Public Schools and graduated from Sumner High School in 1943. Rachel received a business degree from Iowa State Teacher’s College (now known as University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls. She was united in marriage to Eugene Miller in 1944, and to this union three children were born, Gary, Mike and Pat. She worked as a waitress at the Waterloo Airport for over twenty years. She thoroughly enjoyed waitressing, getting to interact with new people every day. She was united in marriage with George Yuhouse in 1957, and to this union one child was born, Tammy. On October 14, 1979, she was united in marriage with Robert Kirchhoff. Rachel was very active with the farm work. While living and working on their farm, she was also a waitress at the Sumner Café where she worked until retiring at the age of 83. She and Robert were married for twenty-five years until his death in 2005. She remained working and living on the farm until her death. Rachel was a long time member of Union United Methodist Church where she was very active in the church women’s groups. She was a member of the Legion Auxiliary for over forty years. Rachel enjoyed reading, watching the news, and following politics. She was very dedicated to maintaining her health, swimming twice a week, bike riding, daily treadmill workouts,  and did so throughout her eighties.

Rachel is survived by her four children, Gary (Kathy) Miller of Tracy, California, Michael (Lynda) Miller of Sumner, Patricia Heller of Sumner, and Tammy (Mike) Loftus of Waterloo; one stepson, Richard (Annette) Kirchhoff of Ferryville, Wisconsin; five stepdaughters, Karen (Dan) Mulawski of Las Vegas, Nevada, Ann (Steven) Baumgarn of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Patty Listenbee of Beloit, Wisconsin, Jane (Charlie) Burleson of Prescott Valley, Arizona and Barbara (Duane) Senft of Postville; thirty-two grandchildren, Christopher Rhea Miller, Andrea Moccia, Michael Joseph Miller, Michelle “Meme” Miller, Shane Miller, Stacie Boess, Gary F. Heller, Heather Bruess, Melanie Honn, and  Jessica Loftus, Lars Blomberg, Alyssa Rohnkohl,  Britt Marinan, Christopher Baumgarn, Chas and Shana Listenbee, Sheri Sandoval,  Billy Burleson, Jamieson, Ross, and Roy Senft, Michael, John, Raymond, Shawn, and Nicholas Kirchhoff, Chad, Stacey, Kari, and Brad Wright, and Angel and Abby Olson; and forty-eight great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husbands, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Jason Heller; a son-in-law, Gerald Heller and a step-son-in-law, Charles Listenbee.

Karl Wilker

Karl Wilker, 86, of Clermont, Iowa died Thursday, April 14, 2016 at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette, Iowa.

Karl Henry was born on October 15, 1929 to Arthur and Hertha (Funk) Wilker in Clayton County, Iowa.

He was baptized on November 3, 1929 in Read Township and confirmed on June 27, 1943 in Farmersburg, Iowa.

Karl attended country school. He also helped on the farm with his father.

Karl was united in marriage with Jeanette Sass on June 5, 1951. To this union six children were born.

He and his wife moved near St. Olaf and farmed from 1952 until 1969, they then moved from St. Olaf to a farm near Clermont. He continued farming near Clermont until 1972. After leaving the farm and moving into town, Karl went to work for Bob Falb Implement in Elgin, Iowa until 1998. He also mowed lawns for Steve Baker.

Karl was head usher at West Clermont Lutheran Church for many years.

He enjoyed fishing, playing cards and he loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Karl is survived by his wife, Jeanette; three children, Ronna Wilker of Clermont, Renee (Brent) Ungerer of Hawkeye, and Roger (Lisa) Wilker of Boyd; 13 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren and two step-great grandchildren; one brother, Burnell (Iva Dean) Wilker of Elkader; and a sister, Annabelle Peterson of St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Karl was preceded in death by two sons, Randy and Ricky; one daughter in infancy, Robyn; his parents, Arthur and Hertha; and two brothers, Eldon and Clifford Wilker.

  Visitation was Tuesday, April 19, 2016 from 9-11 am at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa.

Funeral Services were at 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at West Clermont Lutheran Church. Clermont, Iowa.  Rev. David Schafer was the officiant.

Inurnment followed at Gods Acre’s, Clermont, Iowa.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.       16u16

Linda Walz

Linda Catherine Walz, 70, died, April 7, 2016, at Maple Crest Manor Nursing Home, Fayette, Iowa.

Survivors include her sister Rosalyn Hurley, sister-in-law Clementine Walz, brother-in-law Joe Bergan, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Inurnment will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Elkader, Iowa on May 1, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Dale J. Rausch, West Union officiating. A celebration of her life will be held at St. Joseph Parish Hall following inurnment.

Leonard Funeral Home & Cremation Service is assisting the family.

Online condolences and full obituary at

www.leonardfuneralhomes.com. 



Roy Piper Jr.

Roy L. Piper Jr., 56, of Randalia died Thursday morning, April 14, 2016, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein handled the arrangements.

Sue Ungerer

Susan E. Ungerer, 57, of Hawkeye, died Sunday, April 17, 2016, at her rural Hawkeye home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Dale Rausch at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 23, at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union.

Interment will follow at Hawkeye Cemetery in Hawkeye.

Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 22, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye, where there will be a rosary recited at 3:30 p.m. and a Scripture Service held at 7:30 p.m.

Friends may also call for one hour preceding Mass at the church on Saturday.

Arrangements are being handled by Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye. 

Clarene Humpal

Clarene Marie Humpal died peacefully on April 13, 2016, at her residence in Fredericksburg, Iowa.

Clarene was born on October 25, 1939, to Clara and Mike Franzen near St. Lucas, Iowa.

Clarene attended St. Luke’s Catholic School.

On June 23, 1958, she married Tony Humpal in St. Luke’s Catholic Church and to this union 6 children were born.

Clarene was passionate about church and was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church all her life. She was devout in her faith and said numerous rosaries each day.

Clarene ran a day care from her home for many years. She loved each child who came through the door as one of her own. From babies to teenagers, Clarene loved caring for all children.

Baking was another passion Clarene had in her life. For many years she, along with her children, made and delivered Christmas cookies and treat plates to teachers, bus drivers, and neighbors. There were always some people who were missed so her children got to map out the delivery route for Christmas cookies each year. This was a Christmas tradition and is fondly remembered by each of her children. This tradition has been honored and carried on by some of her children using several of Clarene’s recipes such as cherry bon-bons and peanut butter star cookies.

Clarene also enjoyed garage sales, playing cards, drinking coffee, spending time with friends and family, and of course anything and everything Elvis.

Friendship and fellowship were Clarene’s strengths. She instilled in her children an ambition to be the best they can be, to grow in faith, to be strong in who they are, to rise above adversity and never quit trying.

Clarene enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her sisters, Lorenna and Edna. They enjoyed visiting around the kitchen table and getting their hair done together.

Later in life, Clarene continued to work to improve lives around her. She loved growing flowers, specifically geraniums, and keeping the plants manicured for others to enjoy.

Clarene volunteered daily to help others who could not help themselves. She provided assistance with breakfast, lunch, and dinner to other residents at Whispering Willows as well as made sure everyone was up and around for meals.

Clarene is survived by her children, Gary of New Hampton, Gail (Jeff) Schwartzkopf of Floyd, Gwen (Dave) Antypas of Brentwood, Tenn., Gina of Urbandale, Greg (Tessa) Humpal of Waukee, Glenda (Shane) Reaves of Spring Hill, Tenn; nine grandchildren, Raquel (Tom) Jack, Stephanie Gillen, Kaitlyn Humpal, Philip Antypas, Nayla Antypas, Jeremy Humpal, Ryan Schwartzkopf, Ramzi Antypas, and Laila Antypas; great grandchildren Dawson and Jaxson (Stephanie); two sisters, Marcella Blong of West Union, and Edna Fay of Sumner; two brothers, Laverne (Rosemary) Franzen of St. Lucas and Florian (Pat) Franzen of West Union; two sisters in-law, Irene Franzen of St. Lucas and Helen Franzen of West Union.

Clarene is preceded in death by Tony, three brothers, Albert, Leo and Duane; two sisters, Anna Laura and Lorrena, three brothers-in-law, Mark Bohr, Tony Leichtnam, and Leonard Blong; and nephews, Donnie Leichtnam and Alan Franzen; and niece, Kathy Fay.

Services for Clarene will be held Saturday, April 30, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Waucoma, Iowa.

Prior to the services, there will be visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The internment will be in the St. Luke’s Cemetery following a luncheon provided in the church basement.

Public visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, April 29, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. There will be a 6 p.m. Parish Rosary and Scripture Service at 7:00 p.m.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in Sumner, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.      16u16

Richard Trewin

Richard “Dick” Thomas Trewin, 75, of Waucoma, died April 14, 2016 at Mercy Hospital in Mason City after a brief illness.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 18, 2016, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Waucoma, with Rev. Nick March celebrating the Mass.

Interment with honors conducted by the Waucoma American Legion Post was in the Alpha Cemetery.

Friends greeted the family 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. Sunday, April 17, 2016, at St. Mary's Church in Waucoma. Visitation continued an hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.

Funeral arrangements were with Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in Waucoma.  

Online condolences for Richard's family may be left at hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Richard Trewin was born to Ronald and Frances (Burke) Trewin on Jan. 16, 1941 on a farm outside of Waucoma.

He attended Alpha Schools for 11 years and was in the first graduating class of North High in 1958 when Alpha and North consolidated. As a senior in high school, Dick drove the school bus carrying students from Alpha to West Union.

He was proud to serve in the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1963, and worked on Navy plane engines. He was stationed in Key West, Fla., and Rota, Spain, and frequently told stories of his experiences and travels.

He was united in marriage to Mary Ann Heying on April 1, 1967. Dick and Mary Ann were rarely apart from one another and together raised four boys, Pat, John, Dan and Joe, on their farm in Alpha.

Dick was proud to be a life-long Iowan, and he loved and respected the land he farmed and the animals he raised. He instilled this value in all four of his sons, but he also encouraged them all to work hard in school and go to college, frequently taking on additional chores at home so the boys could study and participate in sports and other activities.

Dick also worked as a custodian for the North Fayette School District. He was always available for a kind word or a bit of advice to the students who befriended him. Dick was very supportive of young people and always encouraged them to work hard.

Dick was an active volunteer in his community and church, and was a member of the American Legion. He was always willing to help a friend, and was known for his kindness and generosity. However, being the Irishman he was, he was not above a political debate or a good argument for argument’s sake.

Dick was deeply proud of his children and his grandchildren. He spent his retirement years taking the kids for tractor rides on the farm and attending their many activities.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann; his sons; Patrick (Karen) Trewin of Decorah, John (Emily) Trewin of Sheffield, Daniel (Kelley) Trewin of Lakeville, MN, Joseph Trewin of Grinnell; his grandchildren, Sean, Odessa, Abby, Lauren, Kalli, Lennox, Libby, Lacey, Karly, and Daisy; two sisters, Mary Beth Pitcher of Salt Lake City, UT and Diane Trewin (Michal Offutt) of Oakland CA; his brother, Ronald (Deborah) Trewin of Lisbon; his uncle, Willliam (Carol) Burke of Waucoma; his aunts, Mary (Burke) Ambrose of Waterloo; Patricia (Burke) Lynn of Cedar Rapids; brothers in-law Ernie (Kay) Heying of Calmar; John (Lousie) Heying of Calmar; Carl (Carol) Heying of Dubuque; Robert (Christina) Heying of Napa, CA; sisters in-law, Pat Heying of Ossian, Helen Hageman of Ft. Atkinson, Marion Heying of Hawkeye, Doris Bouska of Hawkeye, Lorna (Cletus) Bouska of Waucoma, Susan Heying of Calmar; hundreds of nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends – all of whom were very dear to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Frances Trewin; and brothers and sisters in-law Greg and Helen Heying, Jim Bouska, Melvin Hageman, Paul Heying, Dennis Heying, Betty and Jim Bruess.  16u16

Harold Wiedner

Harold E. Wiedner, 73, of Maynard, Iowa died on Saturday, April 16, 2016 at Mercy Living Plus in Oelwein.

Graveside Memorial Service:  10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 23, 2016 at Dunham Grove Cemetery, Rural Randalia, Iowa.

Inurnment:  Dunham Grove Cemetery, rural Randalia, Iowa.

Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Maynard is assisting the family with Harold’s arrangements.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Harold Eugene Wiedner was born on May 12, 1942 at rural Elkader, Iowa, the son of Charles James & Hallie Allen (Thoday) Wiedner.  He graduated from Volga High School at Volga, Iowa in 1959.  Harold served in the U.S. Air Force for three years.  He was married to Bonnie Cullen at Dow Air Force Base at Bangor, Maine and two daughters were born to this union, Vicki & Tammy.  Following his military service, Harold and his family moved to a farm near Elkader.  They later moved to Oelwein where Harold worked at Eldon Wardell’s Shell Station, Lambert Chevrolet and at Colonial Bakery.  Harold and his family moved to the St. Charles, Missouri area.  He and Bonnie divorced in 1969.  Harold worked for McDonald Douglas Aircraft and worked in California, Florida and Virginia.  In 1975 he owned and operated service stations/automobile repair shops in St. Charles and north of St. Charles on Highway 79.  Harold married JoAnn Watkins and a daughter, Sherry, was born to this union, they later divorced. 

Harold moved to Maynard, Iowa where he worked at Wolfe Garage, NEOWA FS at Hazleton and was a self-employed mechanic.  Harold married Kathleen Kay (Lagerquist) Halter on September 29, 1990 at the Little Brown Church at Nashua, Iowa.  They owned and operated Kathy’s Corner in Maynard from 1994 to November of 1996.  Kathy died on January 22, 1997.

Harold is survived by his 3 Daughters:

Vicki (David) Barnett of Hampton, Virginia,

Tammy (Dennis) Hughes of Poquoson, Virginia &

Sherry (Jason) Houck of St. Charles, Missouri;

4 Grandchildren;

Step-Son: Kenneth (Lori) Halter, Jr. of Maynard;

2 Step-Daughters:  Karla (Pete) Duff of Volga & Kelly Jo (Troy) Knott of Waterloo;

Step-Grandchildren;

7 Brothers & Sisters:

Zola Darlene Beldon of Arizona,

Jacqueline Morgan of Waterloo,

Bill Wiedner of Waterloo,

Paul Wiedner of Missouri,

Faye Bruns of Burnsville, Minnesota,

Lynette Larson of Colorado Springs, Colorado &

Bob Wiedner of Elkader.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, 5 brothers & sisters:  Joan Newton, Charles Wiedner, Charlene Wells, Joe Wiedner as an infant & Lois Smith.

Forrest Claxton

Forrest B. Claxton, Jr., Springfield, Missouri, passed away on March 5, 2016, after a five

year decline in health. He was born March 30, 1923 in Fayette, Iowa, the son of Forrest B. and

Ruth (Dubbert) Claxton.

Forrest spent his childhood in Fayette. His parents were cultured, community leaders who raised him to be dependable and hard working. He was valedictorian of his high school class and attended Upper Iowa University before entering WWII in February, 1943. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps, took military and flight training in Wisconsin, California, Arizona and Texas, was commissioned as an officer, became a P-47 pilot and flew numerous missions over Germany with the 406th Fighter Group, 512th Squadron, before being shot down and captured by the Germans. He received the Purple Heart, Air Medal and Prisoner of War Medal.

After the war he attended Iowa State University for a time, then returned to aviation, which he loved. He became a mechanic for Central Airlines, followed by 26 years as a pilot for Continental Airlines until his retirement in 1983. In his years as a pilot, he flew Stearman, Vultee, AT-6, P-40, P-47, DC-3, DC-7 and Boeing 727 aircraft, showed his son the basics of recreational flying in light aircraft, and flew model aircraft with his son and grandsons.

He married Kathryn Yearwood in 1953, and to them was born a son, Roger Farrell Claxton. They ceased their life together in 1980.

Later Forrest married Laura Ann Killingsworth in Austin, Texas. Shortly

after, they moved to Springfield, Missouri, and except for nine years spent in Arkansas,

have lived there until their 35 years together ended at his death. He loved and cherished Ann deeply, and was so very sweet to her, as she was to him. He and Ann were the Lord’s gift to each other and to their children, who witnessed that gift and its blessing of true happiness and love.

He was a kind, generous, good and always supportive father to Roger, providing for a good

education and foundation for life and giving him advice at just the right times and only when needed. 

Margaret Hageman

     Margaret Hageman, age 93, of Calmar, IA, died on Saturday, April 9, 2016, at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, IA.

     Margaret Marie (Funke) Hageman was born on January 30, 1923, the daughter of Albert and Mary (Schneberger) Funke, near Ossian, IA.  Margaret attended St. Francis de Sales Catholic School in Ossian.  She was united in marriage to Carl Hageman on February 8, 1944, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian.  To this union, one son was born, Charles Hageman on July 7, 1949.  Margaret and Carl farmed for many years together until they retired and moved into Calmar in 1983.  Margaret was an avid quilter; making many quilts over the years for all. She also made doilies and made over 1400 crocheted last names for weddings and gifts. She had a green thumb and enjoyed taking care of her house plants. Margaret was a former member of Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Festina and a current member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church and Circle in Calmar.  Margaret was also a member the Calmar Senior Citizens where she served as treasurer.

     Margaret is survived by her sister-in-law: Helen Hageman, Fort Atkinson, IA, along with her Shimek and Hageman nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

     Margaret was preceded in death by her parents: Albert and Mary Funke.  Her husband: Carl Hageman in 1992.  Her son: Charles Hageman in 1968.  One sister: Lucille (Jerome) Shimek. Her father-in-law and mother-in-law: Felix and Monica (Holthaus) Hageman. Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Irene and Edmund Schmitz, Julius and Irene Hageman, Richard and Clara Mae Hageman, Melvin Hageman, Gust Hageman, and. One niece: Nancy Einck.  Two nephews: Rod Hageman and Jerry Schmitz. Great nephews: Jeff Schmitz and Evan Shimek. One great great nephew: Trevor Massman. One great great niece: Bria Sahr. Schluter-Balik Funeral Home in Decorah assisted the family with the arrangements.

Susan Ungerer

Susan E. Ungerer, 57, of Hawkeye, died Sunday, April 17, 2016, at her rural Hawkeye home surrounded by her loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 23, 2016, at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union, celebrated by Rev. Dale Rausch.

Interment followed at Hawkeye Cemetery in Hawkeye.

Friends called from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, April 22^nd at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye where there was a Rosary recited at 3:30 p.m. and Scripture Service held at 7:30 p.m. Friends also called for one hour preceding Mass at the church on Saturday.

Memorials may be made in her name to the University of Iowa Cancer Center.

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

Susan Ellen, daughter of Lloyd and Nell Albers was born November 18, 1958, in Yankton, South Dakota.

She was baptized at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Hartington, Nebraska.

She and her family would later move to West Union, Iowa where she was confirmed at Holy Name Catholic Church.

She graduated from North High School in 1977. She received her bookkeeping degree from Hamilton College in Mason City.

On February 9, 1980, she was united in marriage with Jeff Cannon. To this union four children were born, Jenny, Jason, Missy, and Megan.

Sue worked at Wilbur Ford in West Union for many years as an office manager and Ameriprise Financial Services in West Union where she held the same position.

The couple would later divorce.

On September 20, 2003, she was united in marriage with Roger “Tubby” Ungerer. 

Sue was a long time member of Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union.

She taught tenth grade religion, was a past president of the Women’s Circle, and enjoyed working at bingo for the church.

Sue enjoyed bowling, golfing, mowing her lawn, was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan, spending time with family and friends, but most especially being with her grandchildren.

Sue is survived by her four children, Jenny (Colton) Eickhoff of Oelwein, Jason (Kristy) Cannon of Hawkeye, Missy (Mark) Long of West Union, and Megan Weber of Hawkeye; 10 grandchildren, Cole Cannon, Carter Cannon, Stryker Long, Piper Cannon, Jordan Cannon, Tyler Cannon, Jamison Cannon, Haylee Cannon, Casper Eickhoff, and Macy Cannon; one brother, Brian (Elizabeth) Albers of Baraboo, Wisconsin; brothers-in-law, Galen (Janet) Potter of Virginia and Russell Ungerer of Fayette; Uncle, Chuck (Janet) Albers; seven nieces, Connie (John) Galloway, Nancy (Mark) Creery, Shirley Ungerer, Brooke Albers, Chenoah Flood, Stephanie Connor and Teresa Young; two nephews, Tyler Albers and Kevin Albers, Jr.; former husband, Jeff Cannon of Hawkeye; special friends, Jan Johansen, Connie Hughes, Diane Anfinson and Julie Morely; and many friends and family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roger, who died in 2010, her parents, parents-in-law, brother, Kevin Albers, nephews, Robert Potter, Gary and Randy Ungerer, cousin, Jeffrey Albers, and several aunts and uncles.      17u17

Mary 'June' Caley

Mary “June” Caley, 78, of Oelwein and formerly of Wadena, Iowa, died Saturday morning, April 23, 2016 at Oelwein Health Care in Oelwein, Iowa.

Memorial Service: 10:30 A.M. Saturday, April 30, 2016 at the Wadena Community Church, Wadena, Iowa with Pastor Rusty Phillips officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Friday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Arlington, Iowa, and after 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the church.

Inurnment: Wadena Cemetery, Wadena, Iowa.

A Memorial Fund has been established in her name.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Mary June Herriman was born June 9, 1937, at Wadena, Iowa, the daughter of Leo Clem and Wilma Edna (Monnahan) Herriman. 

She graduated from the Wadena High School. 

On August 9, 1958, she was united in marriage to Philip Eugene Caley at Pine River, Minnesota. 

June was a paramedic for many years at Mercy Hospital of Franciscan Sisters in Oelwein. 

She was a member of the Wadena Community Church and American Legion Auxiliary. 

June enjoyed genealogy and doll collecting.

June is survived by her 2 children: Dennis Caley of Livermore and Curt (Brenda Brehme) Caley of Wadena; 6 grandchildren: Amanda Milford, Amber Cummings,

Amy Cummings, Dennis Cummings, Jr., Marcus Voshell and Heather Jo Voshell; and 4 great grandchildren: Willow, Colton, Braylon and Carter.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband on May 1, 1996; son: Jeffrey James Caley; and a daughter: Kelly Jo Voshell-Hemann.

       17u17

Gary Wayne Laughton

Gary Wayne Laughton, 42, died on April 9, 2016.  Gary was born in Melbourne, Australia, on February 20, 1974, to Cheryl Laughton.  Gary loved the Lord and attended Dellwood Baptist Church, Waynesville, NC.  He was an avid University of North Carolina Tarheels fan and participated in track, cricket and basketball.

Gary was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents.

In addition to his mother, Gary is survived by his wife, Cheri Smock Laughton; two daughters, Ella and Isabelle Laughton; step-children, Corey and Kiley Beaver; mother-in-law, Brenda Bilden Coen; father-in-law, Dave Coen; sister-in-law, Lori Terrell (Kevin), and nephew, Ronan.

A memorial service celebrating Gary’s life was held at 5:30 PM on Friday, April 15, 2016, at Dellwood Baptist Church with Pastor Bobby Rogers, Pastor Ricky Mason and Ernie Gentry officiating.  The family received friends from 3:30 – 5:30 PM prior to the service at the church.

A message of comfort may be left and an online guest registry may be signed at www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com

Cards and memorials may be directed to the Laughton family at 3204 Jonathan Creek Road, Waynesville, NC  28785.