Betty Bond

Betty L. Bond, of West Union and formerly of Maynard and Oelwein, Iowa answered her Savior’s call to come Home on November 5, 2016, at the age of 92 years, 6 months and 5 days at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette, Iowa.

Funeral Service: 11:00 A.M. Friday, November 11, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church in Maynard with Rev. John Kerr officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein and after 10:00 A.M. Friday at the church.

Interment: Madison Cemetery, rural Aurora, Iowa.

Memorials may be given in Betty’s name to the Maynard Presbyterian Church, Fayette County Community Foundation, or the Oelwein Coliseum Restoration Fund.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Betty Larene Kuper was born on the family farm near Stanley, Iowa, on May 1, 1924, to her loving parents Henry R.  and H. Grace (Brown) Kuper. 

She graduated from Maynard High School in 1943.  

America was at war and she did her part by going to work at Chamberlain Munitions Plant in Waterloo where she was an inspector, eliminating defective shells.

Her passion was dancing and she danced with her girlfriends at the Coliseum in Oelwein until the boys came home. It was at the Coliseum that she met a handsome young soldier named Robert, and they married soon after the war, as Americans quickly tried to resume lives of normalcy.  Perhaps yet another victim of Hitler’s war, their marriage ended in 1972.

Betty and Bob were good parents, welcoming three children into their home in Wadena.  They modeled for their children the values of honesty, hard work, and love of country.  Betty was a stay at home mom who kept busy raising a garden, sewing for her children—she even made a beautiful wedding gown for her daughter.   Betty was very resourceful and always managed well.  

She earned her CNA license and cared for the elderly at the Elkader Care Center.  Then she went to work at Atwood Manufacturing in West Union, retiring from there in 1991.

Betty was always an active lady.  

Her faith was important and she served her church in Wadena as a dedicated Sunday and Bible School teacher.  When she lived in Maynard, she was church treasurer at Maynard Presbyterian for many years. She retired to Oelwein, where she enjoyed bowling, playing cards, and was impossible to beat in Scrabble.  She made each grandchild’s birthday very special by decorating a themed cake for them—each a work of art.   Betty danced once or twice a week, still going to the Hootenanny in Hazleton at age 88.  

When she moved to Traditions Assisted Living in West Union, she enjoyed Wii bowling, and crocheting, making afghans for each of her family members and others.  Her final project was finished in October – a beautiful baby afghan which will welcome an expected great grandchild due in December.  Betty loved her children and grandchildren.  

Left to celebrate her memory are her daughter: Vicki (Everett) Rowland of Clermont; sons: Larry of Fayette and Brian (Rhonda) Bond of Ankeny; eight grandchildren: Angelisa Rowland (Mike) Belden, Chicago, and Brandon Rowland (Kara Elliot), Denver, CO, Joshua (Amy), Mathew (Jordan) and Andrew (Shelby) Bond of Fayette, Aamon, Collin, and Derek Bond of Ankeny.  She was blessed to enjoy the antics of her two great grandchildren:  Nolan Belden and Britleigh Bond.  

Betty was preceded in death by her parents: Henry and Grace; brother: Merlin (Phyllis) Kuper; sister: Bonnie (Francis “Bud”) Binning; and an infant sister: Velma Lucille.  We rejoice that she is dancing with them now in Heaven.

Verla Amdahl

Our dear Mom, Verla Arlene Amdahl, 90, of West Union, Iowa died Wednesday, November 2, 2016 at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union, Iowa.

Verla, the daughter of Frank and Maria (Howe) Hull, was born January 11, 1926 at University Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. 

She graduated from West Union High School in 1944. 

Verla was united in marriage with Russell Amdahl in April of 1947, in Fort Dodge, Iowa.  They were the parents of four children. Russell preceded her in death on June 12, 1961.

Verla worked at Interstate Power Company and several businesses. After Russell’s death, Verla worked at the Good Samaritan Center in West Union and went to school at Northeast Iowa Community College. She became an RN in August of 1979. She worked at the Good Samaritan Center for 37 years, retiring in November of 2000. 

She enjoyed travelling to see her children and grandchildren.

Verla is survived by her children, Dennis (Jean) Amdahl of Marion, Iowa; Donna (“Sarge”) Marvel of Kalispell, Montana; Gary (Deb) Amdahl of Kalispell, Montana; and Judy Barkley of Kalispell, Montana; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild arriving soon.

Verla was preceded in death by her husband, Russell; one grandson, Dustin Amdahl; her parents, Frank and Maria; one brother, Clifford Hull; two sisters, Florence Schwendiman and Phyllis Bright; and a son-in-law, Ben Barkley.

Visitation was on Sunday, November 6, 2016 from 3-6 pm at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Monday.

Funeral Services were at 10:30 am on Monday, November 7, 2016 at Zion Lutheran Church, West Union, Iowa with Rev. Adam Starrett as the Officiant.

Burial followed at West Union Cemetery, West Union, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.    45u45

Lila Mae Kappmeyer Glass

Lila Mae Kappmeyer Glass, 83, of Westgate, Iowa died on Saturday evening, November 5, 2016 at the Buchanan County Health Center in Independence.

Funeral Service:  10:30 A.M. Wednesday, November 9, 2016 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Westgate, Iowa with Rev. Herbert C. Mueller, III officiating.

Visitation:  4:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Maynard and for one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday.

Interment:  St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery, Westgate, Iowa.

A Memorial Fund Has Been Established.  Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

     Lila Mae Reinking was born on January 29, 1933 in Westgate, Iowa the daughter of Henry Frederick & Gertrude Ann (Gumm) Reinking.  She was baptized and confirmed by Rev. Otto Schultz at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Westgate.  Lila Mae attended country school and parochial schools in Westgate and graduated from Oran High School. 

     Lila Mae was united in marriage to Grant Roy Kappmeyer on April 13, 1952 by Rev. Otto Schultz at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Westgate.  This union was blessed with three children, Erika, Chris and Lisa.  During this time, Lila Mae was a waitress, a crafter and a farm wife.  She spent many years creating crafts, selling them at flea markets and working at the “Cupboard” in Oelwein.  She loved her family above anything else.  Lila Mae was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday school, vacation bible school, was active in the choir and various women’s groups.  She was also a charter member to organizations at Peace Lutheran Church in Oelwein.  Family camping and square dancing were a few of Lila Mae and Grant’s mem-orable pastimes with their many friends and neighbors.  They spent 19 years traveling around the United States after Grant’s retirement.  Grant died on April 1, 1998 after the couple was blessed with 46 years of marriage.

     Lila Mae was united in marriage to Ronald Howard Glass on December 11, 1999 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Maynard.  They resided in Westgate.  During the winter months, they traveled to Mission, Texas and enjoyed the warm weather.  Lila Mae and Ron were members of the Maynard Senior Citizens.  Lila Mae enjoyed mission work with the Hispanic people in San Antonio.  Her last year and a half were filled with many good times at The Maples Assisted Living in Fayette.  She also enjoyed her grandchildren’s sporting events, music, swimming and anything else that kept her busy.

     Lila Mae is survived by her Husband: Ron Glass of Fayette;

3 Children:  Erika (Dale) Kane of Maynard, Chris (Rhonda) Kappmeyer of rural Maynard &

Lisa (Eddie) Panos of Mitchellville;

7 Grandchildren:  Shane (Amanda) Kappmeyer, Kira (Adam) Roberts, Devin Kappmeyer, Derek Neegaard, Justin Neegaard, Collin Kane and KyLee Kane;

4 Great Grandchildren;

3 Step-Daughters:  Jodi (Denny) Hoephner of Wisconsin, Jacqueline (Grant) Larson of Delmar, California &

Jeanne (Randy) Hudnutt of LaGrange, Kentucky;

Many Step-Grandchildren and Step Great Grandchildren;

3 Sisters-In-Law: Mandy Reinking of Oelwein,

Jeanette Lemonidis of Illinois and Leonore Stanton of Oregon and

2 Brothers-In-Law:  Frank (Teresa) Kappmeyer of Oelwein & Dick (Bev) Kappmeyer of Center Point.

     Lila Mae was preceded in death by her parents; first husband; brother: Bernard Reinking; sister: El Freida Matthias; 3 nieces:  Renae and Brenda Reinking and Carrie Matthias and 3 brothers-in-law:  Dale (Rose) Kappmeyer, Arthur (Marilyn) Crawford and Jack (Dorothy) Crawford.

Kenneth Knutsen

S. Kenneth “Ken” Knutsen, 85, of Blaine, Washington, formerly of Ossian, Iowa, died Tuesday, November 8, 2016 at St. Francis of Bellingham in Bellingham, Washington.

Stanley Kenneth was born April 6, 1931 to Knut and Amanda (Osterhus) Knutsen in rural Ossian, Iowa.

He was baptized at First Lutheran Church in Ossian, Iowa.

When Ken was two the family moved to Seattle, Washington where his father was a deep sea fisherman.

He was confirmed at Salem Evangelical Church in Seattle.

The family moved back to Iowa when his was fourteen, Ken graduated from West Union High School with the class of 1949. He then attended Iowa State University where he was in ROTC and graduated in 1953.

  Ken served in the Air Force as a Lieutenant and he was last stationed in Tacoma, Washington.

After Ken was honorably discharged, he worked in the Forest Service and decided to go back to the University of Washington where he earned his Master’s Degree. After earning his Master’s, Ken was then employed by the University of Washington as an extension employee.

He then began a career in commercial fishing, concentrating primarily on salmon, which he enjoyed for many years.

Ken made many close friends in the Blaine area, he was especially close to Norma Thomason and her family and Pastor Dennis Wildermuth.

Ken is survived by his brother, Walter (Marilyn) Knutsen of Clermont; sister, Doris (Rodney) Guyer of Elgin; eight nieces and nephews, Steve (Rhonda) Guyer of Altoona, Iowa, David (Karen Hostert) Guyer of Dyersville, Iowa, Jordan (Patti) Guyer of Cresco, Iowa, Monte (Mary) Guyer of Clermont, Iowa, Mark (Trish) Knutsen of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Karen (David) Miller of Clermont, Iowa, Kristine (Jason) Lenberg of Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Karla (Rich) Ehr of Kirksville, Missouri; twenty five great-nieces and nephews and nine great-great nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Knut and Amanda Knutsen; and one brother in infancy, Gary.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at Bethany Lutheran Church, rural Ossian, Iowa.

Graveside Service will follow at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at Bethany Lutheran Church Cemetery, rural Ossian, Iowa.

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

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Clermont, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.           46u46

Patricia Szyiewski

Patricia Ann (Lambert) Szyjewski, 66, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, died unexpectedly on Friday, Sept. 23, 2016, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Memorial services were held Saturday, Nov. 5, at Shimon Funeral Home in Hartford, Wisconsin.

Patricia was born March 31, 1950, in West Union to Robert M. and Dorothy A. (Everett) Lambert.

She graduated from Fayette High School in May 1968 and graduated from St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Cedar Rapids with a diploma as a registered nurse.

She was united in marriage with John C. Szyjewski Sr. on Jan. 1, 2000.

Patricia was employed as a nurse case manager supervisor for United Healthcare prior to her retirement in 2015.

She will be remembered for her love of family, spending time with her children and grandchildren, golfing, and going on vacation cruises with her husband.

Patricia is survived by her husband, John C. Szyjewski Sr.; her children William White, Jennifer (Tim) Fitzgerald, Rachel (Damian) Mooney; her stepchildren John (Sarah) Szyjewski Jr. and Sena Szyjewski; her siblings Kathleen Cybela of Fayette, George (Amelia) Lambert of Kansas City, Missouri, and Gary Lambert of Stanley; grandchildren Brittany, Julien, Ein, Eva, Lewis and Lawrence.

She is further survived by her paternal aunt, Dorothy Doughty; maternal uncle, Albert Everett; many loved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Dorothy (Everett) Lambert and a brother-in-law, Thomas Cybela.      46p46

Floyd Frieden

Floyd E. Frieden, 68, of Elgin, Iowa passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Monday, November 7, 2016.

Floyd Edwin, the son of Edwin and Joy (Fordyce) Frieden, was born June 27, 1948 in Conrad, Iowa.  He was united in marriage with Janet Fisher on August 5, 1973 in Eureka, Illinois.  Drafted into the U.S. Army, Floyd served during the Vietnam War as a medic.  After returning home from Vietnam, he worked for J.P. Fitzgerald Surge until 1976, when he and his wife purchased Tillotson Hardware, which became F & F Hardware.  They enjoyed serving the Elgin community for over thirty years.  After his retirement, Floyd enjoyed helping his family and others in the community with various projects.  He dearly enjoyed spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

Floyd was baptized in 1966 and was a member of the Apostolic Christian Faith.  He served as a minister from 1992 until his ALS disease progressed to where he was no longer able.

Floyd is survived by his wife, Jan; four sons, a daughter, and many precious grandchildren; Bruce (Tracy) Frieden, Mara and Dane from Decorah, Iowa; Bob (Julie) Frieden, Kyella, Trey, Broden, and Garrett; Brian (Susie) Frieden, Trent and Adyson; Beth (Mike) Starkweather, Anden, Brielle, Carver; and Ben (Traci) Frieden, Jacob and Mylie, all of Elgin, Iowa; other survivors include a special nephew, Hans Frieden of Wisconsin; two sisters, Gloria (Bill) Wuthrich of Kirksville, Missouri and Marsha Corbin of Independence, Iowa; and several nieces and nephews.

Floyd was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Joy Frieden; and a brother, Larry Frieden.

Visitation was Thursday, November 10, 2016 from 4-7 pm at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa with a one hour visitation before services at the community center on Friday.

Funeral Services were held at 10:30 am on Friday, November 11, 2016 at the Arlington Community Center, Arlington, Iowa. Church ministers will officiate.

Burial followed at the Apostolic Christian Cemetery, rural Elgin, Iowa.

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

Vernon Wedo

Vernon Henry Wedo, 88 of Elgin, Iowa died Saturday, November 26, 2016 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. 

Vernon Henry, the son of Fred and Amela (Miller) Wedo, was born on August 14, 1928 in Elgin, Iowa.

Vernon graduated from Elgin High School in 1946.

After high school he worked for Fayette County.

Vernon was united in marriage with Virginia Lea Borwig on January 31, 1951 in Elgin, Iowa.  To this union, two children were born, Larry and Terry.

Vernon served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War.

After his military service, he worked for Dale Upham and then Holland Brothers and finally, Reilly Construction as a heavy equipment operator. He then took a position as the Road Foreman of Fayette County until his retirement in 1990.

Vernon was a member of the Elgin American Legion and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Elgin.

In his younger years, Vernon was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting. He enjoyed cracking walnuts, gardening, watching the Hawkeyes, Vikings, and Cubbies. 

In his retirement, Vernon and Virginia traveled across the United States, England, Ireland, Scotland and Korea.  They wintered together in Florida for 15 years.  He went on an honor flight with his son, Larry, in September of 2014. 

Vernon is survived by his wife, Virginia; two sons, Larry (Sharon) Wedo of Elgin and Terry (Elizabeth) Wedo of Elgin; five grandchildren, Jason (Jennifer) Wedo of Stow, Ohio, Joshua (Wendy) Wedo of Elgin, Iowa, Billie Jo (Nathaniel) Dent of Liscomb, Iowa, Wade Wedo of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, and Joseph (Lacey) Wedo of Marion, Iowa; 11 great-grandchildren; three siblings, Marlene (Arden) Greener of Elgin, Glenda Hyde of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Russ (Judy) Wedo of Lincoln, Nebraska. 

Vernon is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Amela, and one brother-in-law, Gary Hyde.

Visitation was set for Tuesday, November 29, 2016 from 3 pm until 6 pm at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Elgin, Iowa.  There will also be a one hour visitation before the service on Wednesday.

Funeral Services will be Wednesday, November 30, 2016 at 11 am at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Elgin, Iowa.  Reverend Mee Kang will be the officiant. 

Burial will be in Elgin Cemetery, Elgin, Iowa, with Full Military Honors following the service at the church.

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

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Keith Markow

Keith A. Markow, 83, passed away Saturday, November 26, 2016, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, December 1, 2016, at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola, Iowa, with burial following at Warren Powers Cemetery in Adelphi.

 Visitation will be held 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, at Overton Funeral Home. Family will be present from 6 to 8 p.m.

Keith Allen Markow was born in Osage and grew up in the Des Moines area.

He married Juanita on May 2, 1953.

Keith served in the Navy during the Korean War.

Upon returning to Des Moines, the couple started a family and created a welcome, loving home.

The family lived in Des Moines, Baxter and West Union before moving to Indianola in 1979.

Keith was a teacher and coach in the many places he lived. He believed in the potential he saw in his students and athletes, and he could bring out the best in them. The lives he impacted and the positive memories he leaves behind tell the story of how he lived, how he taught, and why it mattered to so many.

Survivors include his daughter, Suzanne Markow; grandchildren Tyler Larson and Kirsten Larson; and many nieces.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita; parents, Leo and Vera Markow; daughters, Kitty Lee and Sandi Markow; brothers William and Kay Markow.

Memorial contributions may be made to Iowa Health Foundation for the John Stoddard Cancer Center.

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

     48u48

Dr. Tom Bennett

Thomas Lee “Doc” Bennett, 74, of West Union, Iowa, passed away Monday, November 21, 2016, at Gundersen-Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union.

Thomas Lee Bennett, the son of Chuck and Mildred (Palmer) Bennett, was born November 6, 1942, in Harlan, Iowa. 

He grew up in Manning, Iowa, where he excelled in academics and sports, especially basketball. He graduated from Manning High School in 1961.

Tom then attended the University of South Dakota on a basketball scholarship, graduating with a degree in chemistry. “Go, Coyotes!”

He continued his education at the University of Iowa Dental School, graduating in 1969. 

Thomas was united in marriage with Gay Gantt on August 24, 1969, in Pasadena, California.

That same year, Tom and Gay moved to West Union, Iowa, and set up West Union Dental Clinic. He operated the business until his retirement in 2011.

Some of Tom’s many interests included fishing; hunting geese, ducks, and pheasants; golfing with the Par Busters; and communing with nature at Volga Lake.

Tom was also known to place a small wager on a football game or two.

He enjoyed hosting family and friends at the kitchen table. Cooking, serving, and table presentation were all part of the experience.

His dental skills came in handy outside the office on several occasions. He was a skilled woodworker and enjoyed making cabinets and gifts for his friends and grandchildren in his workshop. He even mastered the art of stained-glass windows.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving, devoted, endless caregiver Gay; his son, Tom (Mollie Marshall), his daughter, Libby (Chuck) Hartlieb; grandchildren Hannah, Dan, Claire, Lauren, and Tommy; his sister, Peggy (Al) Jones; nieces; and countless family and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Chuck and Mildred; his uncle, Rocky Palmer; and his aunt, Alyce Giltner.

The family asks that memorials be made to the Festival of Lights (c/o West Union Recreation Foundation, P.O. Box 363, West Union, IA 52175) or to Pheasants Forever.

There will be no services, Tom donated his remains to the University of Iowa Anatomy Department for research.

Condolences may be left at www.graufuneralhomes.com.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa, is assisting the family.

Earl Anderson

Earl J. Anderson, 72, of Hawkeye, died Friday, November 25, 2016, at the Hillcrest Home in Sumner.

Funeral Services will be held at the United Methodist Church in Randalia on Tuesday November 29, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Julie Ahrens officiating. Interment will follow at Dunham Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday preceding the service at the church. Memorials may be made in his name to the United Methodist Church in Randalia. Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Hawkeye is assisting Earl’s family. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.

Earl John, son of Harry and Cecil (Appleman) Anderson was born April 21, 1944, in West Union, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at the Methodist Church in Randalia,  and graduated from Maynard High School. On July 16, 1963, he was united in marriage with Jacqueline Birchard in Oelwein. Earl was a lifelong farmer in the Hawkeye area. At the age of forty-five he retired from farming, and together with his wife became an avid antique collector. He was a long time member of the United Methodist Church in Randalia and Farm Bureau. Earl and his wife enjoyed going for rides, going out for dinner, and going to the river.

Earl is survived by his wife, Jacquie of Fayette; two children, Brenda (Kent) Moore of Elgin and Doug (Jenny Forker) Anderson of Des Moines; two granddaughters, Natalie Moore of New York City, New York and Cassidy Anderson of Des Moines; and three sisters, Faye Latta of Virginia, Margaret Vargason of Texas, and Mavis Kimbrell of Georgia.

In addition to his parents, Earl was preceded in death by five brothers, Robert, Roy, Jim, Arthur, and David Anderson.

Stephen Zbornik

Stephen Lee “Hoss” Zbornik, 58, of Fort Atkinson died Monday, Nov. 21, 2016.

Schluter-Balik Funeral Home, Chekal Chapel, in Fort Atkinson is handling the arrangements.

Donald Schoof

Donald Duane Schoof, was born March 9, 1922 in Waverly, Iowa. He was the son of Herman John Schoof and Irene Sophia Ann Seaman Schoof.

Donald died December 18, 2016 at the Eastern Star Masonic Home in Boone, Iowa at the age of 94 years.

Don grew up in Waverly, Iowa and graduated from Waverly High School in 1940. He then studied for two years at Wartburg College before enlisting in the United States Army.

While in the Army he served as part of the Italian Campaign of World War II. He was honorably discharged having received two purple hearts and a bronze star. On completion of his military service he returned home to Waverly, Iowa.

On November 28, 1948, Donald was united in marriage to Verna Matilda Buhrow. They were the parents of five children:  Rebecca, Judith, Katherine, John and Lynn.

They made their home in Waverly, Iowa until moving to Boone, Iowa in 1964 where Don began working for Iowa State University. He retired after 25 years of service in various positions at the university.

Don was very involved in the Masonic Lodge where he held several positions, including several state positions. He was also very active with the American Legion, the Boone County Historical Society and the Wolcott Foundation. In addition, he was a devoted member of the Augustana Lutheran Church.

Don was preceded in death by his wife Verna Schoof; his parents Herman and Irene Schoof; his sisters Marjorie (Bo) Ellison and Verla (David) Lucas; his grandson Jeff Backer; his granddaughter-in-law Debbie Backer; and his great-granddaughter Nicole Backer.

He is survived by his children:  Rebecca (Charles) Backer of Clarksville, Iowa, Judith Schoof of Clear Lake, Iowa, Katherine Majors of Johnston, Iowa, John (Patricia) Schoof of San Francisco, California, and Lynn (Michael) Lauer of West Union, Iowa; one brother Merwin “Sam” (Lois) Schoof of Cedar Falls, Iowa; five grandchildren:  Todd (Sheila) Backer, Corey (Jamie) Backer, Carolyn (David McConnell) Majors, John Lauer, and Morgan Lauer; five great-grandchildren:  Mackensie Backer, Dylan Backer, Chase Backer, Kennedy Backer and Ashley (Kyle) Lorenz; two great-great-grandchildren:  Tanner Lorenz, and Jace Lorenz; other relatives; and friends.

Funeral Services were held at 10:00 am Thursday, December 22, 2016 at Augustana Lutheran Church, 309 South Greene Street, Boone, IA. 

Graveside services were at 3:00 pm Thursday, December 22, 2016 at Harlington Cemetery in Waverly, IA.

Visitation with the family present to greet friends was Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at Schroeder Funeral Home on the corner of 5th and Story Street from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.  A Masonic Service followed at 7:00 pm.

Visitation continued at the church on Thursday from 9:00 am until the time of the service. 

Memorials are suggested to the Eastern Star Masonic Home or Boone Historical Society.

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

Eugene Trudo

Eugene Louis Trudo, 87, of McGregor, Iowa died Sunday, December 18, 2016 at Crossing Rivers Health, Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.

Eugene Louis was born on February 12, 1929 to Elmer and Elsie (McNally) Trudo in Clermont, Iowa.

He attended high school in Clermont and earned his GED through the Navy.

Eugene enlisted in the United States Navy and honorably served from 1946 to 1948. He was a full seaman first class and signalman. The first ship he was on was the A.V.P- 38 and was named the U.S.S. Duxbury Bay and the second ship he was on was the U.S.S. Floyd Bay 40. While in the Navy he was an amateur radio DJ in his leisure time. Eugene was in the Navy Reserves from January 1948 until November of 1955. 

Eugene was united in marriage to Alice Gordon on January 11, 1949 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Clermont, Iowa. To this union five sons were born. They later divorced and Eugene was united in marriage with Ann Louise Jenson on December 19, 1970 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in McGregor, Iowa.

Eugene farmed many places and worked at the Castalia Carnation Creamery. When the Castalia Creamery closed, he moved to California to stay working with the Carnation Creamery, while he was working there he also worked at a filling station. He returned to Iowa and worked at the Luana Creamery.

In December of 1967, Eugene opened the McGregor Farmers’ Cooperative Elevator. He was also Chief of Police in McGregor in the early 1970’s.  Together with his wife Ann, he owned and operated Gene’s Marina in McGregor, and then owned and operated The Riverview Bar and Grill in McGregor, Iowa. After selling The Riverview to their son and daughter-in-law, Rick and Brenda, they operated The Pit Stop Bar and Grill and apartment complex in Marquette, Iowa.

Eugene enjoyed flying his airplanes and spending time boating on the Mississippi river.

Eugene and Ann lived in Punta Gorda, Florida from the late 1990’s until the early 2000’s. When Eugene moved back to Marquette with Ann, he was elected the Mayor of Marquette. 

Most of his life, Eugene worked two jobs at all times. 

Eugene is survived by his five sons; Eugene Michael (Kate) Trudo of McGregor, Mark Anthony Trudo of Punta Gorda, Florida, Rick E. (Brenda) Trudo of Harpers Ferry, Ronn Scott (Sherry) Trudo of Brownsville, Minnesota and Danny Lee (Mary Ann) Trudo of McGregor; eight grandchildren, Troy (special friend, Missy Coon) Trudo of Fort Meyers, Florida, Travis McCulloch of Seneca, Wisconsin, Bobbi Jo (special friend, Todd Crotty) Reames of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, Ely Trudo of Brownsville, Minnesota, Jessica Trudo of Brownsville, Minnesota, Marssia Lechtenberg of McGregor, Zachary Trudo of McGregor and Jacob Trudo of McGregor; five great-grandchildren, Braden, Reanna, Broderick and Treyton Reames, and Nina Crotty; and one sister, Madonna Droze of Wellman, Iowa.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Elsie Trudo; wife, Ann Trudo; two brothers, Richard and Aldean Trudo, one granddaughter, Hallie Scarff; and one great-granddaughter, Regan Reames.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2016 at St. Mary Catholic Church, McGregor, Iowa with a visitation from 8:30 am – 10:00 am on Wednesday at the church before Mass. Rev. Nils de Jesus Hernandez will be the Celebrant.

Burial to follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, McGregor, Iowa with Military Rites.

Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, McGregor, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.        52u52

Freeman Adams

Freeman John Adams age 90 of Waucoma, IA died Saturday, December 17, 2016, at New Hampton Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

Freeman John Adams was born June 16, 1926, in rural Waucoma, IA, the son of John and Dorothy (VanBrocklin) Adams.

He attended school in Waucoma, and was a graduate of the Waucoma High School in 1943.

He was drafted into the United States Army and served during the Korean War.

Freeman returned to the family farm where he lived and worked. He resided in Waucoma until September of 2016 when he moved into the New Hampton Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

  Freeman loved taking his convertible for drives around the countryside. He enjoyed visiting, and reading Car & Driver magazine.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Waucoma before its closing.

Freeman is survived by one sister, Dorothy Ruth Fisher of Janesville, IA; sister-in-law, Evelyn Adams of Waucoma, IA; four nieces, Cheryl (Neal) Moses of Cedar Falls, IA, Mariliegh Fisher of Cedar Falls, IA, Nancy (Tim) Plendl of Dows, IA, Melanie Fisher of Janesville, IA; three nephews, John (Delberta) Fisher of Waverly, IA, Richard (Dena) Fisher of McCallsburg, IA, Alan (Julie) Fisher of Waverly, IA, and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Howard Adams; brother-in-law, J.H. "Buck" Fisher.

Friends greeted the family from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Thursday, December 22, 2016, at Hugeback - Johnson Funeral in Waucoma.

Susan Mitts

Susan Beth (Christopherson) Mitts, 52, formerly of Sumner, IA, passed away Tuesday, December 20, 2016, at her home in Deer River, MN.

Susan was born October 27, 1964, to Lynas and Dorthy Christopherson Bartels, in Sumner, Iowa and was baptized at Crane Creek Lutheran Church, Tripoli, Iowa. She grew up on a farm north of Sumner.

She attended Sunday school, church and was then confirmed at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Richfield. Later Susan became a member at St. John Lutheran Church, Sumner. 

She attended Sumner Community School, graduating in 1983.

On May 12, 1984, she married Robert Mitts at St. John Lutheran Church, Sumner. To this union, three children were born. Andrew and Laura Mitts, Indianola, Iowa; Megan and Jason Martindale, Boise, Idaho and Whitley Mitts, Sumner, Iowa.

Susan resided in Sumner, West Union and Goshen, Indiana.

Later in her marriage, she attended Northeast Iowa Community College and then enrolled in Upper Iowa University, receiving her BA degree.

She was employed by Life Line in Goshen, IN, as a family consultant for youth and family services, until her battle with cancer.

In the spring of 2016, Susan and Bob moved to northern Minnesota, which was her dream.

She loved her animals and enjoyed cooking, gardening, fishing, but most of all, her spending time with her grandchildren.

Susan is survived by her husband; three children; step-son, Joshua (Bethany) Hanson; six grandchildren, Jordan, Jamison, Clara, Boone, Gus and Melanie; three step-grandchildren, Cayden, Matthew and Isaiah; her mother; her mother-in-law, Irene Mitts and three brothers, Dwain, Roger and Roy.

She is preceded in death by her father; step-father, Larry Bartels; father-in-law, Dean Mitts and all her grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 31, 2016, at St. John Lutheran Church, Sumner.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Friday, December 30, 2016, at the S.K. Rogers Funeral Home, Sumner. 

The S.K. Rogers Funeral Home is assisting the family.

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Janice Yauslin

Janice Yauslin, 75, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota died Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at her home in Sioux Falls. Vera Janice was born on February 6, 1941 to Herman and Grace (Malone) Hearn in Marseilles, Illinois. She graduated from Leland High School in 1959 and Rockford School of Business in 1962.

Janice was united in marriage with Leslie Yauslin on October 13, 1963 at Suydam Methodist Church in Leland, Illinois. Two sons were born to this union. She worked for the American Red Cross in Rockford, Illinois for twenty -four years and Catholic Charities for seventeen years before retiring in 2006.  Janice and Les then moved to Sioux Falls to be closer to their family.  Her grandson Derek, was very important in Janice’s life and she never missed an activity he was involved with.

She was a member of the Sioux Falls Quilters Guild and helped make quilts for veterans and pillowcases for the Sanford Children’s Hospital in Sioux Falls.  Janice enjoyed making stained glass, baking, and crocheting.

Janice is survived by her husband, Leslie Yauslin of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; two sons, David Yauslin and Ronald (Beth) Yauslin, both of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; a grandson, Derek Yauslin; and two siblings, Ward (Cheryl) Hearn of Somanauk, Illinois and Nancy (Dewey) Morrison of Fort Myers, Florida.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Grace Hearn; and her brother, Joseph Hearn.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa with a visitation one hour before services from 10-11 am at the funeral home on Tuesday. Rev. Krista Mournet will be the Officiant.

Burial will follow at Gods Acres, Clermont, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Janice’s honor to Daugherty Hospice House, 4509 Prince of Peace Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57103.

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

Eileene Olson

Eileene M. Olson, 86, of Clermont, Iowa died Wednesday, December 22, 2016 at Stoney Brook, West Union, Iowa. 

Eileene Mary, the daughter of William W. and Julia E. (Kobriger) Wedo, was born May 19, 1930 at the Postville Hospital in Postville, Iowa. 

She was baptized in Decorah and confirmed at the West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont.

She attended country school at Morris #6 and graduated from Clermont High School in 1948.

Eileene was united in marriage with Lyle Marion Olson on July 18, 1954 at West Clermont Lutheran Church. 

Eileene worked as a bookkeeper at the Kaiser-Frazer Garage from 1948 until 1954.  She then worked at the Clermont Co-Op for 12 years, Atwood/Escel for 13½ years, Valley “C” Store for five years, and Clermont Hardware for three years.  She also sold Avon for many years. 

Eileene lived at the same house on State Street in Clermont for 54 years and moved into Stony Brook Village on January 1, 2016.

Eileene was very active in the Business and Professional Womens Club of Clermont and the Sheehan-Olson American Legion Auxiliary.  She was the first woman to hold office in Clermont, serving two terms on the city council. 

She enjoyed flower gardening, collecting coins, stamps, crocks, and knickknacks, playing Bingo, and attending family activities.

Eileene is survived by her three sons, Mike (Brenda Olson) Olson of Clermont; Randy (Laurie Moody) Olson of Clermont; and Tim (Konnie) Olson of Elgin; 17 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; her twin sister, Irene Mitts of Clermont; sisters, Marilyn Schott of Clermont; and Elsie (Burdette) Sebastian of Postville; and several nieces and nephews.

Eileene was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle; her stepson, Dennis Olson; grandson, Cory Christopher Olson; two brothers-in-law, Arthur Schott and Darwin Dean Mitts; and nephews, William Mitts and Steven Owen.

Funeral Services were held at 7:00 pm Monday, December 26, 2016 at the West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont. Rev. David Schafer was the officiant.

Friends called on Monday, December 26, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont.

A private family inurnment will be held at a later date in God’s Acres Cemetery, Clermont, Iowa.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.          1u1

Mabel Molokken

Mabel Gullickson Molokken, 89, West Union, IA, formerly of Ossian, IA, died Monday, December 26, 2016, at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital, La Crosse, WI.

Mabel was born on May 2, 1927, on the Johnson Family Farm, rural Ossian, to John T. Johnson and Bertha (Evenson) Johnson.

She was baptized on June 5, 1927 and confirmed on September 7, 1941, both at First Lutheran Church, rural Ossian.

Mabel was united in marriage to Glen H. Gullickson on September 4, 1943, at First Lutheran Church, rural Ossian. Six children were born to this union. Glen later passed away on July 16, 1994.

Mabel was later united in marriage to Edwin Molokken on January 9, 1999, at First Lutheran Church, rural Ossian.

Mabel enjoyed dancing, traveling, baking and spending time with her beloved family. She loved working alongside Glen on the farm where they raised their six children and also worked for N.I.C.C. for 10 years. We will miss her lefse and be reminded of her when we hear someone say “Uff da”, she was feisty and independent, but most of all she was loved.

Survivors include her husband, Edwin Molokken, West Union; six children, Bernice (Roger) Winter, Calmar, Jan (Ron) Helgerson, Marion, Lyle (Cheryl) Gullickson, Dike, Marilyn (Tony) Brincks, Ossian, Don (Linda) Gullickson, Monona, Bruce (Marcia) Gullickson, Ossian; Edwin’s children, Joan Molokken,  Haines City, FL, Eddie Wayne (Arlene) Molokken, West Union, Jeff (Diane) Molokken, West Union, Steve Molokken, Portland, OR; fifteen grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren and five sisters-in-law, Hazel Gullickson, Helen Storch, Lyla Molokken, Eileen Molokken and Donna Seitz.

Mabel was preceded in death by her parents, John and Bertha Johnson; her husband, Glen Gullickson; two grandsons, Mitchell Brincks, Adam Gullickson, 2 great grandchildren, Matthew Winter, Nicole Winter and four siblings, Bessie Johnson, Ervin Johnson, Thelma Eide and Myron Johnson.

Visitation was held on Friday, December 30, 2016, from 4-8 pm at the Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ossian, Iowa. Visitation was also held one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Services were held on Saturday, December 31, 2016, at 10:30 am at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Eldorado, Iowa. The Rev. Ginny Olson officiated.

Burial followed in First Lutheran Cemetery, rural Ossian, Iowa.

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

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ossian, IA, is in charge of arrangements.        1u1

James O'Brien

James E. O’Brien, 67, of West Union, Iowa died Monday, December 26, 2016 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

James Edward, the son of Everett and Avis (Dirksen) O’Brien was born February 2^nd, 1949 in Waterloo, Iowa.

Jim grew up in Sumner, Iowa and graduated from Sumner High School. 

He graduated from Luther College, Graduate School of Banking, and College for Financial Planning.

He was a Certified Financial Planner and Mutual Fund Counselor.  Jim was the co-owner of O’Brien Brothers Drug, the Executive Vice President and Director of Farmers Savings Bank, and President of O’Brien and Associates.

Upon graduation from Luther College he served his country in the United States Marine Corps during Vietnam. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain.

Jim was united in marriage with Valerie Peterson on January 18, 1986 in Elgin, Iowa. To this union, one son, Michael, was born.

Jim was very active in the community.  He was a past president of Rotary International; West Union Industrial Development; West Union Country Club; West Union Ambassadors; West Union Betterment Foundation; Zion Endowment Trust; Jaycees; Northeast Iowa Shriners; and the Bank Administration Institute.

The Masons were a very important part of his life.  He was a member and Past Master of Masonic Lodge #69 in West Union and Lookout Lodge #395 in Sumner and Cedar Rapids Consistory.

He was a member of the Troop 54 Committee; American Legion Post 15; various committees at Zion Lutheran Church; Ducks Unlimited; History and Literature; Library Board; West Union Sesquicentennial Steering Committee; Fayette County Economic Development; West Union Chamber; and the Committee to build the PAC (Performing Arts Center) at North Fayette Valley High School.  He volunteered for many hours at the North Fayette Elementary, Middle, and High Schools.  He was named the West Union Citizen of the Year in 1988, 1989 and 1999.

His hobbies and interests include camping, fishing, hunting, backpacking, coin collecting, reading and traveling. 

While in college Jim went to Panama on three different occasions for archaeological digs, which sparked a desire to trace his own family history.  Jim volunteered his time recording cemeteries for Fayette County and has compiled a database of over 30,000 individuals. 

He enjoyed history and facts and was known for his stories and jokes.  Spending time with friends and family was what he loved most and was always ready to play games.

Jim is survived by his wife, Valerie, of West Union; his son, Michael O’Brien of Iowa City, Iowa; his brother, Thomas (Darlene) O’Brien of Maricopa, Arizona; mother-in-law, Janice Peterson of Elgin, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Joni (Steve) Gisleson of Elgin and Renee (Rodney) Ray of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota; nieces and nephews, Lisa (Jay) Heying, Chris (Katie) Gisleson, Laura (Collin) Looby, Rodney Ray, and Raeann Ray; and great nephews TJ Heying, Myles Gisleson and Xander Looby; aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and father-in-law. 

  Funeral Services were held at 11:00 am on Friday, December 30^th, 2016 at the Zion Lutheran Church in West Union, Iowa with a visitation from 9-11 am at the church on Friday. Rev. Adam Starrett was the Officiant.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church Endowment Trust.

There will be a Masonic Service held for Jim on January 16, 2017 at 8:00pm at the Masonic Lodge in West Union, Iowa. The public is invited to this service.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.  1u1

Manetta Keefer

Manetta Irene (Earle) Keefer of Clovis, New Mexico, formerly of the Fayette/Wadena area, died Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016.

Manetta was born in a log home in Albany, Iowa, on Aug. 29, 1915. The daughter of William Edward and Lavina (Harriman) Earle, she was the middle of five children.

She attended Frog Hollow School, Albany School and Fayette High School.

Manetta met Clay Vinton Keefer, the love of her life, on a football field in Wadena; he was the school’s guard.

The couple were married Oct. 22, 1932, in Wadena. After they married, they moved to a family-owned farm on Kornhill Road, midway between Fayette and Wadena. There, they raised their two children, Mardell, born in 1939, and Rickie, born in 1954, and loved the family farm for 45 years.

They were longtime members of Wadena Presbyterian Church.

In 1977, the Keefers moved to Guttenberg to start their life on the Mississippi River. There, they joined First United Methodist Church, and Manetta was twice chosen as the Guttenberg Volunteer of the Year.

In 2006, health concerns forced Manetta to move to Glendale, Ariz., to be close to her daughter, Mardell. These were good years.

Life’s next step required 24/7 care at her son Rickie’s home in Clovis, New Mexico. After a wonderful life spanning 101 years, Manetta was called home, passing away on Dec. 10, 2016.

She was a blessing to everyone who knew her.

Survivors include her daughter, Mardell Pinson, Unit 3062, 4730 West Northern Ave., Glendale, AZ 85301; her son, Rickie Keefer, and wife Margaret, 629 Sunland Dr., Clovis, N.M. 88101; and her two grandchildren, Melissa and Brian.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clay; and her siblings, Hazel Earle, Lena Earle, Merville, Earle, and Wayne Earle.       1u1