Irma Thuente

Irma Thuente, age 91, of Festina, IA died Friday, April 22, 2016 at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, IA.

     Irma Barbara (Winter) Thuente was born on July 4, 1924 the daughter of John and Philomena “Minnie” (Hackman) Winter in St. Lucas, Iowa.  She attended St. Lukes Catholic School.  When she was young she worked for area farm families taking care of kids and doing household chores.  On April 18, 1944, she was united in marriage to Virgil Thuente Sr. at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas, Iowa.  Together they farmed near Fort Atkinson, IA.  In 1976, they moved to Festina.  Irma catered for area weddings and also cooked at Oneota Golf Course in Decorah and the Warrior Inn in Calmar.  Irma was known for her famous potato salad.  She enjoyed embroidering, baking, dancing, cooking, and playing cards.  Above all, she especially loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Irma was a member of Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Festina.    

     Irma is survived by her six children: Norma (Gary) Eckhardt, West Union, IA; Merle (Donna) Thuente, Calmar, IA; Vern (Sandy) Thuente, Decorah, IA; Doralee Thuente, New Hope, MN; Virgil (Joanne) Thuente, Jr., Decorah, IA; John (Sharon) Thuente, Fort Atkinson, IA. Eleven grandchildren: Paula Prescott, Terry Goza, Tamara (Grady Murphy) Melde, Vicki (Tony) Daugherty, Wade Thuente, Tim (Kris) Thuente, Tyler Thuente, Emily Thuente, Eric (Amy) Thuente, Nicole (Lloyd) Kuennen and Marcus (fiancé, Sarah McCallister) Thuente. Sixteen great grandchildren: Colton & Landon, Goza, Joshua & Justin Melde, Evan & Blake Daugherty, Hannah Thuente, Lindsey, Hailey & Gavin Thuente, Evan, Lila & Jack Thuente and Aiden, Colin & Parker Kuennen. Two sisters: Leona Bullerman, Decorah, IA; Alma Ameling, Hawkeye, IA; along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Five sisters-in-law: Mary Lou Winter, New Hampton, IA, Lucille Holthaus, Ossian, IA; Anita Tieskoetter, Ossian, IA; Kathleen (Jim) Nelson, Cedar Rapids, IA; and Rose Ann Gussy, Roselle, IL. Four brothers-in-law: Joseph (Arlene) Thuente, Ackley, IA; Ludger (Lynn) Thuente, Sterling, IL; Sylvan (Connie) Thuente, Macon, GA; and Marlin (Pat) Thuente, Scottsdale, AZ.

     Irma was preceded in death by her parents: John and Philomena “Minnie” (Hackman) Winter. Her husband: Virgil Thuente on February 2, 2012. One daughter: Beverly Thuente on June 4, 2006 and one granddaughter: Karla Thuente on February 15, 1990. Two brothers: Melvin Winter, Delbert (Ruby) Winter. Father-in-law and mother-in-law: Joseph & Edwina Thuente. Brothers-in-law and Sisters-in-law: Arlene Thuente, Marie Thuente and Lambert (Lou) Thuente, Cletus Holthaus, Vincent Bullerman, Irvin Ameling and Alphonse Tieskoetter.

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

LeRoy "Tex" Kohlmeyer

LeRoy “Tex” Kohlmeyer, 75, of Hawkeye died Sunday, May 1, 2016, at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today (Wednesday) at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye.

A Celebration of Life luncheon will be held at noon Thursday, May 5, at Trinity Lutheran Church. The public is invited to attend.

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

Alberta Miller

Alberta Miller, 76, of Waterloo died Thursday, April 28, at UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital in Waterloo.

Her brother, Richard (Sandy) Schnor, of West Union survives her.

Stanley Kuch

Stanley Kuch, 90, of Oelwein passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday April 28, 2016 at his home with his children at his side.

Visitation was from 4-7 PM on Monday May 2, and from 9-10 AM on Tuesday May 3, 2016 at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home in Oelwein. 

Mass of Christian Burial was at 10:30 AM on Tuesday May 3, 2016 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein.

Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery at Oelwein.

Stan was born in Dubuque to Roy Andrew Kuch and Marie Louise Friese on February 19, 1926. 

He attended Sacred Heart Catholic and Dubuque Senior High Schools. 

Stan enlisted in the Army Air Corps five months before his high school graduation in 1944. Basic Training took place in Amarillo, Texas following graduation. After Basic training, Stan attended schools in Arizona, Florida and Colorado. He became a crew member on a B-17 flying fortress for the next two years.

After his military service, Stan attended the Iowa State Patrol Academy in Des Moines and joined the Patrol in 1948.  He began his patrol career in District 9 at Cedar Falls, serving there for two years.

He was joined in marriage to Norma Jean Connors at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dubuque on September 10, 1949. 

For the next 13 years the couple made their home in Waverly with Stan working as a State Patrol officer. He was promoted to Sergeant and the family moved to Manchester in June of 1961. In June of 1966 Stan was promoted to District 10 commander and the family then moved to Oelwein where he was in charge of the Northeast Iowa District Post.   

Stan was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, past president of the Lions Club, and past president of the Northeast Iowa Peace Officers. Additionally, he taught at the Iowa State Patrol Academy in Des Moines.  He was a member of the AMVETS, Iowa State Police Men’s Association and the Chief of Police Association.

He retired from the Iowa State Patrol in 1983.  He was elected and served the next four years as the Sheriff of Fayette County and became active in the Iowa State Sheriffs and Deputies Association.

He always looked forward to fishing and pheasant hunting with his family and friends. Stan especially enjoyed spending winters in Arizona, Florida, or Mexico.

Left to celebrate Stan’s life are his sons: Bruce (Maureen) of Omaha, NE, David (Lisa) of Traverse City, MI, Brian (Beth Kruger) of Victoria, MN and two daughters: Barbara (Jon) James of Fayette and Beverly McLeish (Bob Hand) of Faribault, MN; his grandchildren: Derek, Logan, Austin, Mitchell and Megan Kuch, Matt and Melissa McLeish, Katie Valek, Sam and Micah James, and Jessica Benter; twelve great–grandchildren; and his special friend Veronica McKenzie of Waverly.

He was preceded in death by his wife Norma (1996); his sister Dorothy and his parents.

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Olivia Theresa Everitt

Olivia Theresa (Ward) Everitt of Fayette, passed away Friday, April 28, 2016 at Maple Crest Manor Nursing Home in Fayette, Iowa.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm on Sunday, May 1, 2016, at S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in Fayette, Iowa, with 4 pm rosary and scripture.

Mass of Christian burial will be Monday May 2, 2016 at 10:30 am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette, Iowa, with a one-hour viewing prior.

Olivia Theresa (Ward) Everitt was born on August 16, 1921 to Joseph and Margaret (Drilling) Bodensteiner in Decorah, Iowa. She attended Nursing School following her high school graduation and later attended adult education classes, receiving a certificate in tailoring.

Olivia was a homemaker and later worked at City Laundry for 11 years. Olivia was a Gold Star Mother and member of the St. Francis Rosary Society. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, cooking, baking, canning, playing cards, bingo, dancing, and playing pool.

She is survived by daughters, Nadine Roland of Smyrna, Georgia, Joan Celentano of East Islip, New York, Sandy (Jim) Davis of Oxford, Iowa, Tina Adams of Denver, Iowa, Carmen Ward of Hudson, Iowa, and Maureen (Mitch) Hershey of Aplington, Iowa; Sons, David Ward of Maynard, Iowa, and Ronnie (Cindy) Ward of Fayette, Iowa; Brothers, Fr. Peter Bodensteiner and Dr. Cletus Bodensteiner; 19 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Eugene Ward; grandchildren, Jason Moormann and Matt Davis; first husband, Ambrose Ward; second husband, Arthur Everitt; brothers Leonard, Marcellus, Hugo, Christopher, and Leo Bodensteiner; and sisters Agnes (Victor) Winters, Evelyn (Elmer) Hawkins, and Lucille (Samuel) Fanning.

Shirley Dominey

Shirley Ann Dominy, age 81, of Waverly, Iowa, died Friday, April 15, 2016, at Bartles Lutheran Retirement Community in Waverly. 

Services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 22, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Waverly, Iowa.

Father Dave Schatz and Father Mike Tauke officiated.

Private burial of cremains was held at the Elgin Cemetery in Elgin, Iowa.

Shirley was born on October 6, 1934, in rural Elgin, Iowa, the daughter of Archie and Alice (Hanson) Howard. She was raised in the Elgin area and graduated from Elgin High School in 1952. Shirley then attended Iowa State Teachers College (UNI) in Cedar Falls, graduating in 1954. She taught kindergarten and first grade in Postville, Iowa. On August 31, 1957, Shirley married Donald Dominy at Saint Peter Catholic Church in Clermont, Iowa. The couple both taught in Postville for a time, the resided in Clear Lake, Iowa and Richfield, Minnesota, before settling in Waverly, where they raised four daughters. In 1970, Shirley became the inaugural director of the Waverly Day Care Center (now Waverly Child Care and Preschool), serving in that role for 29 years until her retirement in 1999. 

Shirley was a member of Saint Mary Catholic Church in Waverly and a member of the Friends of the Waverly Public Library. She was known for her open mind and unconditional acceptance of others. SHe enjoyed reading, gardening, yoga, and visiting with friends. Shirley was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Left to cherish Shirley's memory are four daughters: Jane (David) Conzett of Cincinnati, Ohio, Jill (Steve) Cook of Perry, Iowa, Susand Michaelson of Iowa City, Iowa, and Mara (Bob) Jirele of Worthington, Minnesota; six grandchildren: Graham Conzett, Eva Conzett, April Cook (Craig Olson), Elizabeth (tom) Willoughby, Emma Jirele, and Matthew Jirele; great-grandson: Malcom Olson; sister: Beverly (Kenneth) Strong of Elgin, Iowa; and brother: Roger (Doris) Howard of Elgin, Iowa, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Donald, and a sister, Anne Bodensteiner.

Tex Kohlmeyer

LeRoy “Tex” A. Kohlmeyer, 75, of Hawkeye, Iowa passed away Sunday, May 1, 2016 at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union, Iowa.

Visitation was held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye.

A Celebration of Life luncheon was held at noon Thursday, May 5, at Trinity Lutheran Church. The public is invited to attend.

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

LeRoy “Tex” Albert Kohlmeyer was born December 14, 1940 to Lester A. and Mabel (Aegeter) Kohlmeyer.

He graduated from West Central High School in 1958.

He was united in marriage to Deanna Tellin on February 8, 1959.  Four children were born in this union.  They later divorced.

He was united in marriage to Betty Morse on September 29, 2001.

Tex was in Lions Club, was on the Hawkeye Council and belonged to the Hawkeye Businessmen's Association.

He worked for Speedy's/United Farm Tools for many years in the sales department. He also worked for Blessing Industries. He owned and operated Tex's Bar and Grill for 10 years.

He enjoyed stock car racing in the late 1960's. He continued this enjoyment by working on the cars, sponsoring cars and attending races while he owned the bar.

LeRoy was survived by his wife, Betty Morse; children, Christine (Randy) Kaune of Fayette, IA, Colleen (Ken) Heath of Stockton, IL, Mike (Wanda) Kohlmeyer of Hawkeye, IA, Mark (Janet) Kohlmeyer of Oelwein, IA; step-children, Robin (George) Streeter of Hawkeye, IA, Roxanne (Jerry) Bixler of Perry, IA; 23 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and two sisters Linda Ahrenholz, Gertrude “Shane” Patton; and 7 nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by parents; a brother, Dennis Kohlmeyer; two sisters, Vicki Jo Kohlmeyer, Betty Ungerer; father-in-law Lee Wilkie; mother-in-law Lois Wilkie; niece, Dionne Johansen and nephew, Terry Kuddes. 

Shirley Brubaker

Shirley M. Brubaker, 86, of West Union, Iowa, passed away Saturday, May 7, 2016, at the Rehabilitation Center of Hampton in Hampton, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 13, 2016, at West Union United Methodist Church in West Union with Pastor Chris Ebbers officiating.  

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 12, 2016, at West Union United Methodist Church in West Union. 

Burial will take place in Sheffield Cemetery, rural Story City, at a later date.  

Shirley was born on Feb. 28, 1930, in Story City, Iowa, to Clarence and Mary (Maroney) Doolittle.

Shirley received her education at a country school in Story County and graduated from Gilbert High School.

She was married to Joe Brubaker on Nov. 10, 1950, in Story City.

Shirley worked for the State of Iowa.

She was an active member of United Methodist Church in West Union, where she was involved in many committees and other activities.

She enjoyed going to her children's activities, spending time with her grandchildren and was recently a very proud great-grandmother. Shirley was very giving of her time and spirit to everyone.

She is survived by her daughter, Barb (Mike) Furman of Hampton; her son, John Brubaker of Hampton; grandchildren Megan (Jesse) Mollenbeck of Hampton, Erin (Anthony Hibbing) Brubaker of Lincoln, Neb., Matthew (Anna) Brubaker of Elgin, and Jarrett Brubaker of Houston, Texas; great-granddaughter Taya Grace Brubaker of Elgin; a brother, Delano Doolittle of Gilbert; daughter-in-law Kathy Brubaker of West Union, daughter-in-law Kimberli Philbirck of Houston, Texas; several nieces and nephews.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Mary; her brother, Dennis; and her son, Jeffrey.

Sietsema Vogel Funeral Home of Hampton is handling the arrangements.

Paul Bunn

Paul "Squire" Bunn, passed away Thursday, May 5th, 2016, at Palmer Lutheran Health Center, West Union, Iowa.

Funeral Services will be Wednesday, May 11th, 2016, 11:00 am, at the United Methodist Church, West Union, Iowa.

Burial at Long Grove Cemetery, Maynard, Iowa.

Visitation was set for Tuesday, May 10th, at 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm, at the Burnham-Wood Funeral Home, West Union, Iowa.

Paul “Squire” D. Bunn was born on April 12, 1938 in Maynard to Homer and Leatha (Prideaux) Bunn on the family farm.

He attended West Central High School.

Paul was united in marriage to Janet Nus on December 13, 1959.

Paul was in the army and a member of the West Union VFW.

He worked for Bemis distributing in West Union and Jensen Transportation in Independence.

In his spare time he liked to go hunting and fishing.

Paul is survived by his sons, Joe Bunn of Wadena, Doug (Laura Rosson) Bunn of West Union; grandchildren, Jarrod Bunn of Wadena, Jordan (Holly) Bunn, Virden, IL, Brianne Reaves of Cedar Falls, Chris Barry of Fargo, North Dakota; great-grandchild, Ella Reaves of Cedar Falls, sister, Mary Kay Diem of Bettendorf; brothers, Albert (Judy) Bunn of Maynard, Robert (Shirley) Bunn of Maynard, David (Marj) Bunn of Maynard, Donald (Ann) Bunn of Maynard; sister-in-law, Loyce Bunn of Maynard and many nieces and nephews.

Paul is preceded by his parents; his wife Janet; son in infancy, Bryon Bunn; daughter in infancy, Shelly Bunn; and brother, John Bunn.

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

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Wilma Sabelka

Wilma A. Sabelka, 95, of New Hampton died Sunday, May 8, 2016, at New Hampton Nursing and Rehab.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 12, at Holy Family Parish.

Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in New Hampton.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. today (Wednesday) at Conway-Markham Funeral Home in New Hampton with a 4:30 p.m. rosary.  Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to Mass on Thursday.

Barbara Dennler

Barbara Taylor Dennler, age 85 of Williamsburg, died Monday, May 2, 2016 at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City.

Funeral Services: 10:00 A.M. Friday, May 6, 2016, St. Paul United Methodist Church, Williamsburg, Iowa with Rev. James Parks officiating.

Burial was at 3:30 P.M. Friday, Illyria Cemetery, Elgin, Iowa.

Visitation: 4 to 7 P.M. Thursday, May 5, 2016, at St. Paul United Methodist Church, Williamsburg, with a VFW Auxiliary service at 7 P.M.

Memorials may be contributed to St. Paul United Methodist Church or Safe Haven of Iowa County.

Kloster Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Barbara is survived by her children, Sandra Schrader of Williamsburg, Cherie Carton (Jimmie) of Ankeny, Thomas Dennler (Debbie) of Cedar Rapids, and Crystal B. Radnich (Bill “Skeeter”) of Williamsburg; 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Glenn in 1994, a son Larry and a granddaughter Theresa.

Barbara Taylor was born May 24, 1930 in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, the daughter of John William Taylor and Bertha Hesse Taylor. 

She graduated from B.M.C. Durfee High School, Fall River, MA in 1948, and attended Thibedeau Business College for two years.

Barbara and R. Glenn Dennler were married December 11, 1959 in Des Moines, Iowa.

Barbara was employed by Swift and Company Feed of Williamsburg for many years. She then worked for the U.S. Postal Service, where she most recently was Postmaster at the Parnell Post Office.  Barb retired in 2006.

She was a member of the Williamsburg Saddle Club, the National Association of Postmasters (NAPUS), the Williamsburg VFW Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary.

She had a huge heart when it came to animals, and cherished her furry companions, Abby and Holly.

Online condolences: www.klosterfuneralhome.com.

Kenneth D. Witt

   Kenneth D. Witt, 84, of Ossian, IA formerly of Clinton, passed away Monday, May 2, 2016 at his home.  A Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday May 7, 2016 at Prince of Peace Parish.  Friends may call on Friday, May 6^th from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the Pape Funeral Home.  Private committal services will be held at St. Irenaeus Calvary Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to Prince of Peace Catholic School or the Ossian Ambulance Service.

     Ken was born on December 18, 1931 in La Crosse, WI the son of Walter and Lavina (Dunnigan) Witt.  He was raised and educated in Ossian, graduating from Ossian Public High School in 1949.  Ken married Ann Michels in Bellevue, IA on April 24, 1954.  Ann passed away on November 18, 2007.  Ken worked many different jobs while raising his family of 10 children.  He was a huge supporter of all their athletic events.

     Ken worked as a route manager for several years for the Jewel Tea Company in Bellevue, Clinton and Ottumwa.  He later returned to Clinton where he owned and operated four “Say Hi Ken” Phillip 66 gas stations before retiring in 1986.  In 1986 Ken and Ann moved to Hackensack, MN where they owned and operated Birch Haven Fishing Resort until they finally retired.

     Ken loved to fish.  He truly enjoyed when his family would travel to Birch Haven to vacation and he was able to take his children and grandchildren fishing.  He also enjoyed traveling to Canada to fish.  He enjoyed being a member of coffee clubs in both Hackensack and Ossian.  Ken had been an active volunteer at St. Irenaeus Church while in Clinton spending many hours in the basement remodeling project and then calling BINGO.

     Surviving are his ten children, Steve Witt of Stevens Point, WI, Kathy (Mark) McGuire of Meridian, ID, Karen Witt of Clinton, Mike (MaryBeth) Witt of Pewaukee, WI, Bev (Al) McGuire of Monmouth, IL, Dave Witt of Colome, SD, Sue Hutton of Sherrard, IL Jane (Jeff) Roth of Camanche, Jean Matheny of Clinton and Mary (Joe) Michaelsen of Fulton; 26 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; a brother, Donald (Mary Ann) Witt of Ossian, IA and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-mother, Helen Witt; his wife; a half-brother, Hugh Cherioli and a half-sister, Leola Cherioli-Michels, and a daughter in law, Teresa Witt.  Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.

Wilma Sabelka

Wilma A. Sabelka, age 95, of New Hampton, IA passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2016 at New Hampton Nursing and Rehab with her family by her side.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at Holy Family Parish in New Hampton with Father Mark Osterhaus celebrating.

Burial was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in New Hampton.

Visitation was from 4:00-7:00 PM on Wednesday, May 11, 2016 at Holy Family Parish in New Hampton with a 4:30 PM Rosary and a 6:30 PM Scriptural Wake Service.  Visitation continued at the church one hour prior to the funeral mass on Thursday. 

Online condolences for Wilma’s family may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com.

Memorials may be directed to the family. 

Wilma A. Sabelka was born on May 23, 1920 to William and Christina (Soukup) Riehle in Spillville, Iowa.

On January 22, 1940, Wilma was united in marriage to Ervin J. Sabelka at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville.

She attended rural Winneshiek County schools and farmed with her husband near Reilly Ridge before the couple retired to New Hampton in 1988.

The couple liked traveling by bus. Wilma enjoyed cross stitching, embroidery work and playing cards. She especially loved spending time with her family and friends.

Wilma was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in New Hampton, St. Mary’s Choir and often volunteered at New Hampton Care Center. She was also a member of Catholic Daughters of America and the Rosary Society.

Wilma is survived by her one son, Joe (Mary Jo) Sabelka of Lawler, IA; three daughters, Leona (Florian) Steinlage of West Union, IA, Linda (Bob) Buckridge of Wentzville, MO and Laure (Bob) Rausch of Fort Atkinson, IA; one daughter-in-law, Norma Sabelka of Lawler, IA; 19 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Phyllis Mashek and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 72 years, Ervin J. Sabelka on December 17, 2012; one son, Bill Sabelka; two great-granddaughters, Haley and Hana Buchheit; her brothers, Conrad, Julius, Norbert and Oscar Riehle and her sisters, Mae Mashak, Alice Kuhn, Christina Lukes and Dorothy Hansen.  20u20

Dorothy "Jeanne" (Aylsworth) Africa

Dorothy “Jeanne” (Aylsworth) Africa, 54, of Clermont, Iowa went to be with our Lord and Savior on Monday, May 9, 2016. She died at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota, from complications related to open heart surgery.

She was born July 3, 1961 to Gene and Janet (Dewald) Aylsworth in West Union, Iowa.

Jeanne was baptized at the Wadena Presbyterian Church and confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington.

Jeanne graduated from Valley High School in 1979. She attended Waldorf College in Forest City following graduation.

Jeanne had careers in numerous fields before pursuing her passion for nursing. She graduated from NICC in Calmar with her RN degree, then went on to get her BSN from the University of Iowa. She was currently pursuing her master’s degree.

Jeanne started her nursing career at the Strawberry Point Lutheran Home, then worked at Mercy Hospital in Oelwein, later becoming a home health and hospice nurse with PLHC in West Union, and was currently a nursing instructor for NICC.

She had a special ability to reach her students and enjoyed teaching high school students over the ICN, currently based out of the Postville High School.

Jeanne helped launch many careers in healthcare. She was not only a great nursing instructor, but a great nurse! She touched many lives during her time as a hospice nurse, and her life was touched by many she served.

Organizing kayaking trips and motorcycle rides were a few of the things she was well known for. Jeanne introduced kayaking to many individuals in Northeast Iowa and beyond. She spent as much time on the river as she was able to. She loved rock hunting on the sandbars and has an extensive collection to prove it. Jeanne also enjoyed showing her beloved Virtue at dog shows.

Jeanne was a member of the Wadena American Legion Auxiliary. 

Jeanne was reunited with her high-school sweetheart after many years apart. They made a home together in Clermont.

In 2009, Jeanne was confirmed and welcomed into the Catholic Church.

Jeanne had lived in: Lexington, Kentucky; Sun Valley, Idaho; San Francisco, California and Austin, Texas. Jeanne enjoyed traveling and had visited many countries.

She is survived by her fiancé, Scott Bushman, Clermont; dog-child, Virtue; parents, Gene and Gloria Aylsworth, Wadena; mother, Jan Dewald, Guerneville, California; brothers, Ron (Beth) Aylsworth and Greg Aylsworth, Wadena; sister, Tricia (Dennis) Whittle, Volga; special "son" Leif (Jen) White, Clermont; special friend, Janet Crandall, Pass Christian, Mississippi; stepchildren, Tifani (Bill) Daly, Tyler (Laura) Bushman, and Tony Bushman; nieces/nephews, Jamy Schumaker, Quinn Heidtbrink, Sarah Grupen, Tyler Grupen, Ashley Aylsworth, Austin Aylsworth, Taylor Whittle, Tommy Whittle, and Danielle Whittle; grandchildren, Finley Bushman, Elliott Daly, Rowe Bushman, Mae Bushman, Bjorn White, Declan White, Nina White: and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Bert and Hazel Aylsworth; maternal grandparents, Daniel Dewald and Mildred Fox; and brother, Daniel John Aylsworth.

Visitation was on Friday, May 13, 2016 from 3-7 pm at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Celebration of Life was at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 14, 2016 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Elkader, Iowa with Rev. Paul Peters as the Celebrant.

Burial will be held at a later date.

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

Patricia Kuennen

Patricia Ann Kuennen, age 69, passed away on Wednesday, May 11, 2016, after a brief, courageous battle with colon cancer at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines with her family by her side.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by the Rev. Nick March, the Rev. Ivan Nienhaus, and deacon Jim Zajicek on Monday, May 16, at St. Luke Catholic Church in St. Lucas.

Interment was in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in New Hampton.

Casket bearers were Jamie Wegner, Louie Brady, Kevin Nienhaus, Daryl Kuennen, Kolby Kolbet, Keith Steinlage, Andrew Kuennen, and Kyle Kuennen.

Honorary casket bearers were Gary and Barb Haughenbury, Denny and Terri Gebel, Tom and Elaine Keating, Jim and Flo Boos, LouAnn Schaufenbuel and Gloria Barker.

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

Patricia Ann (Brady) Kuennen was born on September 13, 1946 in New Hampton, Iowa to Emmet and Agnes (Meyer) Brady.

She graduated from New Hampton High School and continued her education at Iowa State University.  Pat graduated from ISU with a degree in Interior Design and began her career as an interior design specialist at McTaggert’s in Elkader.

Pat was united in marriage to Wilfred Kuennen on May 10, 1969 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Hampton, IA, and to this marriage three children were born, Kelly, Deano and Jeno.

She received her teaching certificate from Upper Iowa University while working full time and then began teaching at St. Luke’s Catholic school for 7 years as a 3^rd and 4^th grade teacher. 

In 1976, Pat started working at the Fayette County Courthouse in the Auditors office where she completed her working career as Deputy Auditor, retiring after 32 years.

Pat loved her summer weekends at the river in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin and enjoyed her time with all her “river rat” friends.  She loved her grandkids, boating, reading and spending time with friends and family.

Pat was a member of the North East Iowa State Cyclone Club, St. Luke’s Church and Rosary Society and served two terms on the Turkey Valley School board.

She will be missed by many!

Pat is survived by her husband, Wilfred of St. Lucas, IA; Three children: Kelly Kuennen, Johnston, Iowa, Deano and Nancy (Schmitt) Kuennen, Granger, Iowa and Jeno and Monica (Heideman) Kuennen, Urbandale, Iowa. She has four beautiful grandchildren – Caleb (17), Cade (12), Landen (10) and Maggie (8). Pat’s siblings and in-laws: Dan (Judy) Brady Onalaska, WI, Jean (Roger) Kolbet, New Hampton, IA, Victoria Schmitt, West Union, IA, Mary Ann Kuennen, Lawler, IA, Don (Mary) Kuennen, St. Lucas, IA, Marilyn (Dick) Nienhaus, Ft. Atkinson, IA, Cora (Tom) Lynch, Nashua, IA, Leona (Tim) Bodensteiner, Grinnell, IA, Gaylord Kuennen (Pat Kennedy), St Lucas, IA, Dennis (Janet) Kuennen, St Lucas, IA and Allan (Pam) Kuennen, Cedar Rapids, IA. Many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Emmet and Agnes Brady, father and mother-in-law, Nick and Frances Kuennen, sisters-in-law, Donna Brady, Norma Wegner, Dolorita Kuennen, Rosalie Kuennen and brothers-in-law, Delbert Kuennen, Richard Kuennen, Gary Wegner and Bernie Schmitt.         20u20

Martha Woods

Martha Sue Woods, 69, of Elgin, Iowa died Thursday, May 12, 2016 at Gundersen Health System, La Crosse, Wisconsin. Sue was born on June 3, 1946 to James and Marion (Luckadoo) Howell in Laramie, Wyoming. Sue graduated in 1964 from Garey High School in Pomona, California. Sue worked thirteen years at Etreby Computer Company, ten years at Scott Pharmacy and she also worked at several other pharmacies. She was a licensed pharmacy technician for forty years.

Sue eloped to Mexico with Harold “Woody” Woods on March 21, 1964. Together they lived in Pomona and Lancaster, California. For ten years the “RV’d” full time and moved to Elgin in 2005. Sue enjoyed sewing, painting and she loved Christmas. She was a member of the Illyria Community Church.

Sue is survived by her husband, Harold “Woody” Woods of Elgin, Iowa; Son, William David (Patricia Lynn) Woods of Lancaster, California; three granddaughters, Ashley (Brett) Crosby of Agua Dulce, California, Breanna Woods of Lancaster, California and Kyra Woods of Lancaster, California; five great granddaughters and one on the way; two brothers, James (Patty) Howell of Tracey, California and Robert (Donna) Howell of Huron, Ohio; two nieces and five nephews.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, James and Marion Howell; grandparents; and her uncle and aunt.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 17, 2016 from 4-7 pm at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa with a one hour visitation before the celebration at the church on Wednesday.

Celebration of Life will be at 10:30 am on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 at Illyria Community Church, Elgin, Iowa with Pastor Pam Reinig as the Officiant.

Inurnment will follow at Elgin Cemetery, Elgin, Iowa.

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

Virginia (Jean) McGee

McGEE, VIRGINIA ROCHESTER, MINNESOTA A funeral mass for Virginia (Jean) McGee will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Pius X Catholic Church with the Rev. Paul E. Nelson officiating. Burial will be in St. Kieran’s Catholic Cemetery near Cresco Iowa. Virgina F. "Jean" McGee was born March 27, 1922 in Ossian, IA to Joseph and Caroline "Carrie" Wiltgen. She died after a brief illness on May 7, 2016 at St. Mary’s Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She married Gerald "Jerry" McGee, April 17, 1951. They farmed in the Austin and Grand Meadow areas. They moved to Pine Island in 1966 where they raised their five children. Jean was a homemaker and did child care. The couple moved to Rochester in 1982. Jerry died in 2004. Jean lived in Central Towers in Rochester until November 2015 when she moved to Golden Living West until February 2016 when she moved to Madonna Meadows. She was a long time member of St. Pius X Catholic Church. She enjoyed needlework, puzzles, butterflies and spending time with her grandchildren. Jean's idea of heaven was a baby in her arms. Survivors include her daughter Norine (Jerry) Huneke of Zumbrota, four sons, Michael (Bev) of Chanute, KS, Mitchell of Randleman, NC, Kelly (Kristy) of Rochester, and Bill (Jackie) of Byron, 10 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren. In addition to Jerry, she was preceded in death by one great granddaughter, Carlie Sue Almond and all 9 of her siblings. Funzy Wiltgen, Marie Bartels, Irene Reiter, Zephy Arch, Viola O'Shaughnessy, Corrine Mecklin, Stella Wiltgen, Victor Wiltgen, Vivian Wiltgen. Jean will be greatly missed by her children and grandchildren. Friends may call from 9:30 a.m. prior to the service at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Mahn Family Funeral Home – Rochester Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Memorials are suggested to the Carlie Sue Almond Scholarship fund; 2451 West Main, Chanute KS, 66720 

Alma Berg

Alma Berg, 96, of Clermont, Iowa, died Wednesday, May 18, 2016 at the Good Samaritan Society, West Union, Iowa.  

Alma Mae, the daughter of Jacob and Ida (Schneider) Friederich, was born May 19, 1919 in Dutch Bottom, Clayton County, Iowa. 

She attended the Wander Country School near Clermont, Iowa, until the seventh grade. She then helped with her family and worked as a hired girl for many area families. 

Alma was united in marriage with Orville Berg on June 1, 1939, at the Lutheran Parsonage in Clermont. 

She was baptized and confirmed at East Clermont Church by Rev. Ramsey on Feb. 11, 1940. 

Two sons, Roger and Marvin, were born to this union.  

Alma and Orville farmed near Clermont for many years. They celebrated 65 years of marriage before Orville’s death in 2004. 

During their life together they were very hard workers but also fun lovers who greatly enjoyed ballroom dancing, playing cards and visiting with family and friends. 

Alma lived in Clermont for a few years before entering the Good Samaritan Society in West Union in 2009.

Alma was a longtime member of the East Clermont Lutheran Church and WELCA and she was active in the Grand Meadow Study Club. 

Alma loved to play cards and dominoes. She was an accomplished seamstress and was well known for her quilting and patching skills.  She also enjoyed gardening, baking, and cooking.

Alma is survived by her children, Roger (Carol) Berg of Clermont; and Marvin (Diane) Berg of Garnavillo, Iowa; four grandchildren, Joel (Lyn) Berg of St. Olaf, Iowa; Jim (Tina) Berg of West Union; Kristin (Mike) Fitzgerald of Elkader, Iowa; and Sara (Jason) Rael of Marion, Iowa; nine great-grandchildren, Emily and Rachel Berg; Natalie and Nathan Fitzgerald; Hunter Berg; and Nick, Jordan, Alexis, and Sheala Rael; three brothers, Ray (Murtis) Friederich of Postville, Iowa; Jim (Delores) Friederich of West Union; and Robert Friederich of Postville; and one sister, Fern Kleppe of Elkader.

Alma was preceded in death by her husband, Orville; her parents, Jacob and Ida; five brothers, Jacob, Jr., Richard, Lester, George, and Alton Friederich; and two sisters, Dorothy Foels and Erma Kamaus. 

Celebration of her Life was held at 11:00 am on Monday, May 23, 2016 at East Clermont Lutheran Church with a two hour visitation before services from 9-11 am at the church. Rev. Ron Roberts was the officiant.
 

Burial followed in the East Clermont Lutheran Cemetery, Clermont, Iowa.
 

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

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

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Kevin West

Kevin D. West, 56, son of Lyle & Ardola (Robbins) West, was born July 4, 1959 in Northeast Iowa.  

He passed away Thursday, May 19, 2016 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Des Moines, Iowa.

Kevin attended Starmont Community School District.  

He served in the United States Armed Forces. In 1982, he married Alice Howard in Arlington, Iowa.   e worked for Heying Foods in West Union, Iowa and then transferred to Panora in 1986. He then worked at Redfield Tile, Iowa Quality Meats in Des Moines, and Ryan’s Recycling in Des Moines before going on disability due to his back.  

He has lived the last five years in Elgin, Iowa.  

Kevin enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, and most of all, being with his grandchildren.

Kevin is survived by his children, Jesse West of Guthrie Center; Christi (Ryan) Wearmouth of Panora; and Tristan West of Panora; grandchildren, Bli, Braylunn, Bladyn, and Bryna Wearmouth; mother & step-father, Ardola & Ron Maser of Oelwein; sisters, Scherry Stuart of Elgin; and Karen Fowler of Kansas.  Brothers, David West of Elgin; and Kyle West of Las Vegas, NV; and several aunts, uncle, nieces, & nephews.  

He was preceded in death by his father.

Funeral Services were held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, May 23, 2016 at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora.  

Burial was in Richland Township Cemetery, rural Bagley, Iowa.  

Visitation was for 1 hour prior to the services at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Twigg Funeral Home in Panora was in charge of arrangements.          21u21

Robert Fels

Robert Martin Fels, age 67, Lawton, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2016 in Lawton.

No funeral services are planned but his cremated remains will be placed in the Auburn Cemetery near West Union, Iowa in a private family service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Becker-Rabon Funeral Home in Lawton, Okla.

Robert Martin Fels was born December 30, 1948 in West Union, Iowa to Charles and Mildred (Bruening) Fels. 

He grew up in West Union and graduated high school.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa.

He served in the U.S. Army from 1973 until his retirement as a Sergeant First Class in August of 1995 at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He was proud of his service as an aerial observer in Germany and Korea. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer’s Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 3, Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

He married RoseMary Higgins on December 24, 1981 in Kansas City, Kansas.  She preceded him in death on November 27, 2005.  

He later married Joan Trainor on October 7, 2006 in Okemah, Oklahoma.  

He was a member of Liberty Heights Christian Church.  

While his son was younger he was involved in scouting and also coached and refereed soccer. He enjoyed family, traveling, fishing, camping and racing.

He is survived by his wife, of the home; a son, Ryan Martin Fels, Lawton; a step son and his favorite daughter-in-law, Christopher and Lynn Trainor, McAlester, Oklahoma; his sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Jackie Clary, Mount Pleasant, Texas; a brother and sister-in-law, Jeff and Ruth Fels, West Union, Iowa; several nieces and nephews; and a very dear friend, William McCormick.

His parents, a son, Ross Mills Fels, a brother, Roger Bernard Fels and a sister, Charlene Marie Fels, preceded him in death. An online guest book and sympathy cards are available at www.beckerfuneral.com.

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