Arabella Kleppe

Arabella Rose Kleppe, 79, of West Union, Iowa died Thursday, January 5, 2017 at Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, Iowa.   

Arabella Rose was born on November 15, 1937 to Aubrey and Mable (Christenson) Guyer in Elgin, Iowa.

She was baptized and confirmed at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, Iowa.

Arabella graduated from West Union High School in 1955.

Arabella Rose Kleppe was united in marriage to Les Kleppe on September 21, 1957 at West Clermont Lutheran Church.

Arabella was a homemaker and also worked for a short time for Tierney’s Clothing Store.

She was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Ossian, Iowa.

Arabella enjoyed sewing, reading, cooking and shopping with her friends. She loved spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. Arabella was a great mother and a good friend to all.

Arabella is survived by her husband, Les Kleppe of West Union, Iowa; five children, Gwyn (Dale Langreck) Kleppe of Waucoma, Iowa, Kim (Brice) Pape of Maynard, Iowa, Shawn (Stacy) Kleppe of Ossian, Iowa, Jennifer (Jon) Biederman of Fayette, Iowa and Kami (Jason) Waltemeyer of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Shane (Allyssa Beierschmitt) Pape of Fairbank, Iowa, Michaela (Scott) Griffin of Eldridge, Iowa, Mackenzie (Josh Freeland) Pape of Waterloo, Iowa, Taylor Waltemeyer of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Haley Meyer of Fayette, Iowa, Cayden Kleppe of Ossian, Iowa, Emma Biederman of Fayette, Iowa and Cale Kleppe of Ossian, Iowa; siblings, Patty Hofland of San Jacinta, California, Angie Andrews of Palo, Iowa, Rodney (Doris) Guyer of Clermont, Iowa, Ethan (Vivian) Guyer of Postville, Iowa, Betty Benjegerdes of Postville, Iowa, John (Ellen) Guyer of Clermont, Iowa, Gary Guyer of Oelwein, Iowa, Kay Behnken of Monona, Iowa, Wanita (Harry) Pape of West Union, Iowa, Olivia (Steve) Drewes of West Union, Iowa, Rebecca (Bob) Keehner of Luana, Iowa, Rachel (Gary) Woodson of Elgin, Iowa, and Cindy (Dale) Bilden of Clermont, Iowa and sister-in-law, Violet Guyer of Clermont, Iowa.

Arabella was preceded in death by her parents, Aubrey and Mable Guyer; brother, Doug Guyer; and brothers-in-law, Sig Hofland, Carl Andrews, Alan Behnken and Paul Benjegerdes.

Visitation was held from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in West Union, Iowa. There was also a one hour visitation before services at the church on Monday.

Funeral Services were held at 10:30 am on Monday, January 9, 2017 at Bethany Lutheran Church, rural Ossian, Iowa with Pastor Marshall Nessa as the Officiant.

Burial followed at Bethany Lutheran Church Cemetery, rural Ossian, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in West Union, Iowa helped the family with arrangements.          2u2

Harold Roy Haberichter

Harold Roy Wilburt Haberichter, 84 of Clever Missouri passed away Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017 at the family home in Clever after a life-long struggle from the effects of polio as a young man.  Visitation to be held at Meador Funeral Home in Republic , MO on Wednesday 11 Jan from 5:30-7:30 PM. Funeral services will be held at Hope Lutheran Church, Republic, MO on Thursday, Jan. 12 at 10:30, followed by graveside services with military honors at Mount Carmel Cemetery. 

Harold was born on Jan. 4, 1933 near Monona, Iowa.  He graduated from Monona HS.  He served in the US Army from June 8, 1954 to May 23, 1956 whereupon he was transferred to the inactive reserves.  He attended Basic Training at Ft Bliss, TX.  He was then sent to Ft Gordon, GA for radioman school.  He was then assigned to the Kaiserslaughtern region in Germany as a radioman until his discharge.   He earned the National Defense Service Medal and was awarded the Army Good Conduct medal.

Shortly after his discharge he married Mary Elizabeth Meyer from Ossian, IA and they began farming north of Ossian.  Harold and Mary were married over 60 years until Harold's death.   They continued farming on various farms around Ossian until 1978 when they moved to a farm near Clever, MO.  They continued farming there until 1989 when they retired to the their home in Clever.

In addition to farming Harold also worked as a truck driver, plant worker, and bus driver.  Harold was active in the community;  serving as a church trustee and elder, school board member, member of the Clever Planning and Zoning Board, and Clever Farmers Fire Protection Association Inc. Rural Farmers Fire district board member.  He was recently chosen as the 2016 Clever, MO Christmas Parade Grand Marshal. Harold was also very engaged as a blood donor until his health prevented him from donating. 

He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Mary; his children Marcus (and Vivian) of Choctaw, OK;  David  of Clever, MO; Angela Glenn of Strafford, MO; and Nathan (and Angie) of Wichita, KS.  He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 10 Great-Grandchildren.  He is also survived by his brothers: Vernis Haberichter of Waukon, IA, and Clarence from Monona, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents Vern and Nora Haberichter, and an infant sister.

Susan Nagle

Susan K. Nagle, 65, of Wadena, died Saturday evening, January 14, 2017, at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 19, 2017, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Volga with Rev. John Haugen officiating.

Interment will follow at Wadena Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 18^th at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette and for one hour preceding services at the church on Thursday. A Rosary will be recited at 3:45 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made in her name to the Wadena Public Library.

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

Susan Kay, daughter of Roy and Donna Hultman Green, was born July 19, 1951, at Fergus Falls, Minnesota.

She moved with her family to Cedar Falls, Iowa and graduated from Cedar Falls High School in 1969.

On December 29, 1973, she was united in marriage with Myron J. Nagle at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Gilbertville. The couple made their home in Evansdale until 1990, when they moved to the Wadena area.

Susan was employed as a medical transcriptionist at the Gundersen Clinic in Fayette for several years.

A resident of Maple Crest Manor in Fayette since July of 2013, she enjoyed knitting, reading, keeping current on politics, but most of all she enjoyed the time spent with her grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Mick of Wadena, she is survived by four daughters, Mindra (Donald Richard) Balk of West Union, Holiday (Arturo) Zuniga of Los Angeles, California, Darian (Jeremy) Gamm of Iowa City, and Sabrina (Jared) Kent of Wadena; seven grandchildren, Bradley (Samantha), Gary, and Joanne Balk, Alexandria and Miles Kent, and Anya and Sasha Gamm; her mother, Donna (Gary) Weyland of Wadena; and one sister, Barbara (James) Karn of Pueblo, Colorado.

Susan was preceded in death by her father, Roy Green.            3u3

Arthur Tangen

                  Arthur Tangen, 85, of Ossian, Iowa passed away Monday, January 9, 2017 at the Gundersen Palmer Health Center in West Union, Iowa.  Arthur Olaf, the son of Carl and Agnes (Oakland) Tangen, was born March 11, 1931 in Decorah, Iowa.  He graduated from Ossian High School in 1950.  Arthur was united in marriage to Marlene Soeder on September 21, 1957.

                   Art is survived by three daughters, Mary Peterson of Manchester; Lynn Tangen of Cedar Rapids; and Joy Tangen of Cedar Rapids; four grandsons, Zach, Ben, James, and Jacob; sister, Carol (Jared) Hills of Cedar Rapids, niece, Kari (Colin) Dirks and family, and nephew, Paul (Cindy) Hills and family. 

Art was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene, who died January 5, 2016; his son, Mark; a grandson, Lucas, his parents, Carl and Agnes and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Arnold and Nettie Soeder.

The family would like to thank the Good Samaritan and Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital for all their wonderful care.  

 Funeral Services were held 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 13, 2017 at the Stavanger Lutheran Church, rural Ossian, Iowa.  Rev. Wayne Ellingson was  the officiant.

Visitation was held at 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at the Stavanger Lutheran Church and one hour before services at the church on Friday.

Interment will be held in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Art’s honor to Stavanger Lutheran Church or the Ossian Ambulance Dept. 

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

Dean Lee Monroe

Dean Lee Monroe, 70, of Castalia, Iowa died Monday, January 9, 2017 at his home in Castalia, Iowa.  Dean was born on December 27, 1946 in Decorah, Iowa to Merle and Juanita (Preuss) Monroe.  He was baptized on January 19, 1947  ,confirmed on March 26, 1961 and on October 18^th ,1969 was united in marriage to Becky Kramme, all of which took place at the Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia.  

    Dean graduated from South Winneshiek High School in 1965.  He then began working at the Carnation Plant in Waverly, IA.    After working there nearly a year, he was drafted into the United States Army in 1966.  He served his country honorably until his discharge in 1968 at which time returned to the family farm to work in a partnership with his parents and his brother, Roger.      In 1988, Dean began working for the US Postal Service as a rural letter carrier until his retirement in 2013.  He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and the Ossian American Legion. 

In his younger years, Dean enjoyed playing slow pitch softball, bowling and golfing.  In more recent years, his family became involved in the Mississippi Blackhawks Water Ski Team and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends on the Mississippi River.  After Dean’s retirement, along with the help of his boys, he completed a farm workshop.  Because of the many hours Dean and his buddy Dale spent repairing everything from tractors to toys, and just sitting there “solving the world’s problems, the shop has often been called “D&D Repair” by boys and their friends.

But the most important hours of Dean’s life have been those that he shared with his 13 grandchildren. He enjoyed nothing more than sitting in his lawn chair, soaking up the views of the farm fields as he watched his grandchildren embrace the space he called “home” for most all of his 70 years.

Dean is survived by his wife, Becky of 47 years; four children, Wendy Monroe of Nederland, Colorado, Darin (Sarah) Monroe of Decorah, Iowa, Joel (Tara) Monroe of Waukon, Iowa and Mark Monroe of Castalia, Iowa; thirteen grandchildren, Sydney Radloff, Seraph Kelly, Wylde Kelly, Avery Kelly, Creed Monroe, Gabe Monroe, Burke Monroe, Dempsey Monroe, Ashton Monroe, Lily Monroe, Ethan Monroe, Evan Monroe and Elliot Monroe; four siblings, Gail Anfinson of Hawkeye, Iowa, Roger (Mary) Monroe of Castalia, Iowa, Marla (Mike) Miene of Postville, Iowa and Brenda Waterman ( Kevin Wiltgen) of Castalia, Iowa;  one sister-in-Law Karen (Jim) Aschenbrenner of Cedar Falls, Iowa; five brothers-in-law, Tim (Linda) Kramme of Stout, Iowa, Ken Kramme of Calmar, Iowa, Steve (Ana) Kramme of Adel, Iowa, Mark Kramme of Calmar, Iowa and Roger (Amy) Kramme of Spillville, Iowa and many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Juanita (Preuss) Monroe; one sister, Julie Monroe, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Paul and Myrtle (Lumby) Kramme and one brother-in-law, Dennis Anfinson.

Funeral Services were held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 14, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa with full Military Rites following the services at the church. Reverend Alan Wicks was the Officiant.

Visitation was held from 4pm until 8pm on Friday, January 13, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa. 

There will be a private family burial at a later date.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers or gifts, memorials be given to Zion Lutheran Church, Castalia, Iowa.

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

Doris Miller

Doris A. Miller, 68, of West Union, Iowa passed away Saturday, January 21, 2017 at her home in rural West Union, Iowa. 

Doris Ann, the daughter of Martin and Irene (Tinderholt) Oakland, was born January 15, 1949 in Decorah, Iowa.

She was baptized at the Stavanger Lutheran Church, rural Ossian, Iowa and confirmed at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Eldorado, Iowa.

Doris graduated from North High School in 1967.

She was united in marriage with Joseph Dullard and later divorced. 

She was then united in marriage with John Miller in St. Lucas, Iowa. 

Doris and John lived in Colorado for many years.  Doris was a clerk at a 7-11 in Golden, Colorado for 17 years and was a caterer for a Holiday Inn for three years.

Doris was a very kind hearted person who enjoyed reading, fishing, camping, and collecting cookbooks.  She loved keeping current with her children and grandchildren even though they lived afar and she loved animals, especially dogs.

Doris is survived by her husband, John, of West Union, Iowa; six children, John Dullard of Denver, Colorado; Troy (Beth) Dullard of Denver, Colorado, Adam (Becki) Miller of Golden, Colorado; Michael Miller of Denver, Colorado; Mary (Randy) Dehli of Waukon, Iowa; and Matt (Jessie) Miller of Waukon, Iowa; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one sister, Janice Knox of Decorah, Iowa; three brothers, Vernon “Fuzzy” (Inez) Oakland of Clermont, Iowa; David (Ann) Oakland of West Union, Iowa; her twin brother, Dale Oakland of Kittredge, Colorado; and several nieces and nephews.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Irene; her first husband, Joseph Dullard; four brothers, Marvin, Norman, Jerald, and Ronnie Oakland; and one sister, Linda Boyle.

Funeral Services will be held 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Eldorado, Iowa. Rev. Ginny Olson will be the officiant.

Visitation will be held at 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, January 27, 2017 at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home in West Union, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Saturday.

Inurnment will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, West Union, Iowa at a later date.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.   4u4

Richard Schmelzer

Richard Dale Schmelzer, 86, of Oelwein passed away on Saturday January 21, 2017 at Mercy Hospital in Oelwein. 

Visitation was set for 4-7 PM on Tuesday January 24, 2017 at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home in Oelwein, where there was to be a Parish Scripture Service at 6:30 PM and Military Honors at 6:45 PM led by the American Legion Ross Reid Post #9 and VFW post 1725 of Oelwein. There will also be visitation from 9:30-10:30 AM on Wednesday January 25, 2017 at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial is being held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday January 25, 2017 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein with Father Paul McManus and Deacon Jim Patera officiating. 

Burial will be in Hawkeye Cemetery at Hawkeye. 

A memorial fund has been established in Richard’s name. 

For condolences, please visit www.geilenfeldfh.com. 

Richard was born on June 13, 1930 in West Union, Iowa the son of Joseph L. and Josephine “Josie” (Blockhus) Schmelzer, Sr.

He attended country school. 

Richard then served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War and was the recipient of the Purple Heart Medal. 

He was united in marriage with Dorothy Van Sickle on June 6, 1955 in West Union, Iowa.

Richard farmed with his family and later on his own, and was a supervisor at Iowa Ham, Retiring in 1992.

When he wasn’t busy working, Richard enjoyed fishing, hunting (both game and mushrooms), cards, gardening, making jerky, visiting with his friends and family and trips to Branson, Missouri. His greatest love was his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He touched many lives and will be dearly missed. 

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy of Oelwein; two sons: Gene (Joan) Schmelzer and Mark (Ann) Schmelzer both of Vinton, Iowa; a daughter, Sherry (Dennis) Zimpfer of Iowa Falls, Iowa; six grandchildren: Brian, Beth, Zachary, Ashley, Alexandria and Brock; three great grandchildren: Natalie, Riley and Henry; a sister, Janice (Allan) Leonard of Ellsworth, Wisconsin; a brother-in-law, Larry Riley of Fayette, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Josephine; two brothers, Thomas Schmelzer and Joseph L. Schmelzer, Jr.; and a sister, Georgie Ann Riley.

          4u4

Cathy Scheidel

Cathy Lynn Scheidel, 52, of Elgin, Iowa died Thursday, January 19, 2017 at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union, Iowa.

She was born on July 28, 1964 to Vernon Rod and Geraldine Amelia (Bretsch) Vick in Decorah, Iowa.

Cathy was baptized and confirmed at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Decorah, Iowa.

She graduated from Decorah High in 1983 where she was a member of the DECCA and FFA.

Cathy was united in marriage with Todd Scheidel on March 28, 1987 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Decorah, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Jason and Jordan.

Cathy worked at McDonalds in Decorah for 13 years, Country Inn and Suites in Decorah as head of housing keeping for three years, Wal-Mart in Decorah as a Deli-Manager for 12 years and Quillins in West Union, as Deli-Manager for four years.

Cathy was a member St. Peter Catholic Church, Clermont, Iowa and the Winneshiek County Saddle Company when she was in high school.

In more recent years, she enjoyed spending time the Speedster garage care club.

Cathy enjoyed gardening, spending time in her kitchen with family, crocheting, reading, riding around the countryside and picnicking. She loved her dogs and chickens, game nights, family gatherings at Lake Meyer and sitting by the campfire. She also loved celebrating and decorating for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

Cathy is survived by her husband, Todd Scheidel of Elgin, Iowa; her dogs, Hailey Jo, Sissy Lou, Otis and Archie; two children, Jason (Summer Handel) Scheidel of Elgin, Iowa and Jordan Scheidel of Elgin, Iowa; brothers, Harlan Vick of Glendale, Arizona and Michael (Jenny) Vick of Ellison Bay, Wisconsin; step-brother, Greg (Kathy) Vick of Decorah, Iowa; step-sister, Roberta “Bobbi” Vick of Harrisburg, Oregon; half-sisters, Sally (Jim) Tieskoetter of Castalia, Iowa, Wanda (Dave) Schroeder of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin and Larry (Karen) Berg of Castalia, Iowa; mother-in-law, Alice Scheidel of Decorah, Iowa; sister-in-law, Ila Mae Vick of Fairbank, Iowa; brothers-in-law, Tim (Jane) Scheidel of Lawler, Iowa, Terry (Julie) Scheidel of Decorah, Iowa, Cindy (Roger) Luhring of Tripoli, Iowa, Ted (Mary) Scheidel of Shell Rock, Iowa, Tom (Shannon) Scheidel of Garwin, Iowa and Tony (Meghan) Scheidel of Decorah, Iowa; many nieces and nephews; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Geraldine Vick; step-brothers and step-sisters, Rod Vick, Joan Harvey, Janet Harkness, Ruth Fadness and Donald R. Vick; father-in-law, Donald Scheidel; uncle, Pete Woodson; nephew, Levi Scheidel; sister-in-law, Donna Johnson and her other dogs, Buttons, Montana, Abby and Rex.

Visitation was held Monday, January 23, 2017 from 4-7 pm at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Clermont, Iowa with a one hour visitation before mass at the church on Tuesday.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 24, 2017 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Clermont, Iowa.

Burial followed at St. Benedict Catholic Cemetery, Decorah, Iowa.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, Iowa helped the family with the arrangements.        4u4

Lloyd Schutte

Lloyd Helmuth Schutte, 86, of Castalia, Iowa died Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at the Good Samaritan Society, Waukon, Iowa. Lloyd was born on July 11, 1930 to Elmer C. and Marie (Backhaus) Schutte on the family farm near Castalia, Iowa. He was baptized on August 23, 1930 and confirmed April 2, 1944 at Zion Lutheran Church in Castalia, Iowa. Lloyd graduated from Postville High School in 1948.

Lloyd was united in marriage with Clarine Olson on January 7, 1951 at Marion Lutheran Church in Gunder, Iowa. Three children were born to this union. After farming with his dad for about a year, Lloyd took over the farm and continued farming his entire life. He still had the John Deere A that he bought new in June 1951. Lloyd along with his wife, Clarine, owned a lake home in Minnesota that they enjoyed from 1990 to 2000. He loved gardening and grew a very large vegetable garden that fed his family all summer long. Lloyd also enjoyed the company of his dogs and attending his children and grandchildren’s sporting events. Lloyd was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, serving on the church council and ushering. He was president of Clermont-Valley Co-op Boards from 1975 to 1977 and participated in the raft races on the Turkey River with Art Matt, and often won.

Lloyd is survived by his three children, Cindy (Harold) Schmale of Sterling Colorado, Michael (Rose) Schutte of Castalia, Iowa and LuAnn (Nicholas) Rolling of Waterville, Iowa; eight grandchildren, John (Julie) Handke, Joseph (Rachel) Handke, Jason Handke, Leisl Schutte, Gregory Schutte, Amanda (Brian) Streeper, Ruth (Heath) Blomquist and William (Molly) Rolling; one sister, Eleanor Torkelson of West Union, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Lillian Schutte, Belva Olson and Jan Olson; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Marion and Fern Olson; and several nieces and nephews.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his wife, Clarine Schutte on May 13, 2000; brother, Eugene Schutte; his parents, Elmer and Marie Schutte; and five brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law.

 Funeral Services were held  at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville, Iowa with Rev. Lynn Noel as the Officiant. There was a one hour visitation before services at the church on Saturday.

Burial followed at Postville Cemetery, Postville, Iowa.

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

Rev. Peter C. Bodensteiner

The Rev. Peter C. Bodensteiner, age 97, of New Hampton, IA, died Tuesday, January 17, 2017, at Kensington Place Assisted Living in New Hampton. 

A Mass of Christian Burial was held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 21, 2016 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Lawler with Archbishop Jackels officiating the Mass.  

Interment was at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery in Ossian, IA with Sam Fanning, Micheal Bodensteiner, John Eichenburger, Joseph Scally, Danny Bodensteiner and Ron Ward serving as pallbearers.

Friends greeted the family from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Friday, January 20, 2016 at the church. Where there was a 5:00 p.m. rosary and a 7:00 p.m. parish scripture service. Visitation continued an hour prior to the Mass on Saturday at church. 

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

Peter Clifford Bodensteiner was born January 15, 1920 in Ossian, IA, the son of Joseph and Margaret (Drilling) Bodensteiner.

When Pete was younger he enjoyed playing baseball and going to dances in Spillville.  

Father Pete graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School in Ossian and then went to Loras College. He completed his theological studies at St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore, Maryland.

Father Pete was ordained on July 28, 1945. was an associate pastor from 1945-1947 at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque, IA; 1947-1949 in St. Petersburg, IA; 1949-1954 at Immaculate Conception in Elma; 1954-1957 at St. Joseph Church in Mason City; 1957-1959 First Resident Pastor in St. Ansgar, IA; 1959-1967 at Sacred Heart in Grundy Center, IA; 1967-1973 at Our Lady of Lourdes, Lourdes, IA; 1973-1979 at St. Mary’s Church in Cascade, IA and 1979-1989 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Lawler, IA.

Father Pete is survived by his brother Dr. Cletus Bodensteiner of Long Beach, CA; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Leonard Bodensteiner, Marcellus Bodensteiner, Hugo Bodensteiner, Christopher Bodensteiner and Leo Bodensteiner; four sisters, Agnes Winter, Evelyn Hawkins, Lucille Fanning and Olivia Ward-Everret.    4u4

Charles Deering

Charles I. Deering, 80, of Postville, Iowa, died Friday January 27, 2017 at the Good Samaritan Society in Postville.

He was born May 16, 1936 to Irving Charles and Leeone (Zieman) Deering on the home farm in rural Postville, where he resided for 65 years. 

Charles was baptized July 19, 1936 by Rev. R.B. Garten and confirmed on April 2, 1950 by Rev. Frederick R. Ludwig. 

Charles graduated from Postville High School in 1954, attended Iowa State University and then returned to the family farm. 

On June 16, 1957 he was united in marriage to Carol Meyer at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church by Rev. Charles E. Witt.  To this union six children were born.

Charles was a lifetime member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville. 

Sports and music were a big part of Charles’ life. In high school he was active in football, basketball, baseball, track, FFA, and vocal music.  Achieving the Iowa Farmer Degree and having the honor of singing in the National FFA Choir were as much a highlight as being point guard on the first Postville basketball team to make it to the sub-state basketball tournament. After high school, he was an avid fan of the Postville Pirates, Iowa State Cyclones and the activities of his children and grandchildren. He loved being a fan and spectator as much as he had loved participating. 

Charles and his brother, Robert, established Prairie Agri. Entp., Inc. in 1973. 

He maintained his love of farming and community by serving on the St. Paul Lutheran Church Council and numerous boards, including Citizens State Bank, Fayette County Fair, Prairie Feeder Pig, and many others. 

He is survived by his wife Carol of 59 years; one son, Charles (Kimberly) of Postville; three daughters, Lori Deering of Postville, Stacy (Phillip) Tharp of Clive, Iowa, Lisa (Shannon) Schultz of Teutopolis, Illinois; 12 grandchildren, Kelsie (Heath Dee) Deering, Morgan Deering, Whitney Deering, Tanner Deering, Lindsey (Nate Sherwood) Podzimek, Leah Podzimek, Elise Tharp, Chloe Tharp, Chase Schultz, Marshall Schultz, Zachary Schultz, and Rourke Schultz; one brother, Robert (Sandra) Deering of Postville; two sisters, Ann (Richard) Schupbach of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, and Jane (Roger) Kolarich of Decorah, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sons, Craig Deering and Michael Deering.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, February 2, 2017 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Postville, Iowa and an hour before services at the church on Friday.

Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 3, 2017 at St. Paul Lutheran Church Postville, Iowa. The Rev. Lynn J. Noel will be the Officiant.

Inurnment will be at a later date.

Memorials be given in Charles' memory to these Postville entities: Postville Area Ambulance, Postville Fire Department, Postville Good Samaritan Center, Postville Dollars for Scholars, Postville Library or St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Postville, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.          5u5

Eugene Thorson

Eugene Thorson, 91, of Clermont, Iowa died Friday, January 27, 2017 at his home in Clermont.

Alf Eugene Thorson, the son of Alphie and Myrtle (Lien) Thorson, was born September 30, 1925 on a farm in rural Clermont. 

He graduated from Clermont High School in 1943.

Eugene was united in marriage with Anna Bachtell at the Ossian Lutheran Church in 1953. To this union five children, Catherine, Barbara, Pamela, Mark, and Evan, were born. 

Eugene and Anna farmed outside of Clermont for many years. He retired from farming about three years ago. In addition to farming, Eugene was a substitute rural mail carrier for several years. 

Eugene was a member of the East Clermont Lutheran Church and served on the church council.

He was also a board member of the Gunder Cheese Factory. 

Eugene enjoyed woodworking, going to auctions, and visiting with family and friends.  He loved collecting and fixing clocks of all types.

Eugene is survived by his wife, Anna, of Clermont, Iowa; four children, Catherine Champion of Port Charlotte, Florida; Barbara (Mark) Henry of Port Charlotte, Florida; Pamela (Arnie Luzum) Williams of Fredericksburg, Iowa; and Evan (Christy Fish) Thorson of Clermont, Iowa; 10 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; one brother, Charles (Bona) Thorson of Clermont, Iowa; one sister, Velma Moorhead of Phoenix, Arizona; several nieces and nephews and special family friend, Julie Larson.

Eugene was preceded in death by his son, Mark Thorson; his parents, Alphie and Myrtle; and one sister, Minerva Bacon.

Funeral Services will be at 11 am on Thursday, February 2, 2017 at the East Clermont Lutheran Church, rural Clermont. Rev. Ron Roberts will be the officiant.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home in Clermont and one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

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

Eugene Thorson

Eugene Thorson, 91, of Clermont, Iowa died Friday, January 27, 2017 at his home in Clermont.

Alf Eugene Thorson, the son of Alphie and Myrtle (Lien) Thorson, was born September 30, 1925 on a farm in rural Clermont. 

He graduated from Clermont High School in 1943.

Eugene was united in marriage with Anna Bachtell at the Ossian Lutheran Church in 1953. To this union five children, Catherine, Barbara, Pamela, Mark, and Evan, were born. 

Eugene and Anna farmed outside of Clermont for many years. He retired from farming about three years ago. In addition to farming, Eugene was a substitute rural mail carrier for several years. 

Eugene was a member of the East Clermont Lutheran Church and served on the church council.

He was also a board member of the Gunder Cheese Factory. 

Eugene enjoyed woodworking, going to auctions, and visiting with family and friends.  He loved collecting and fixing clocks of all types.

Eugene is survived by his wife, Anna, of Clermont, Iowa; four children, Catherine Champion of Port Charlotte, Florida; Barbara (Mark) Henry of Port Charlotte, Florida; Pamela (Arnie Luzum) Williams of Fredericksburg, Iowa; and Evan (Christy Fish) Thorson of Clermont, Iowa; 10 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; one brother, Charles (Bona) Thorson of Clermont, Iowa; one sister, Velma Moorhead of Phoenix, Arizona; several nieces and nephews and special family friend, Julie Larson.

Eugene was preceded in death by his son, Mark Thorson; his parents, Alphie and Myrtle; and one sister, Minerva Bacon.

Funeral Services will be at 11 am on Thursday, February 2, 2017 at the East Clermont Lutheran Church, rural Clermont. Rev. Ron Roberts will be the officiant.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home in Clermont and one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

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

Edward Harrison

Edward Eugene Harrison, 61, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017, at Emery Place Living in Robins, Iowa, afer a long and brave battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Eddie was born June 11, 1955, to Raymond and Dorothy (Rogers) Harrison at St. Joseph’s Hospital in New Hampton.

He was baptized July 10, 1955, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Fredericksburg and confirmed June 22, 1969, at Stapleton Lutheran Church, rural Waucoma.

Eddie graduated from North High School in West Union in 1973.

Upon his graduation, he enlisted in the Navy, where he served our country until 1982. He loved being in the Navy.

He was then employed at Duane Arnold/Alliant Energy Nuclear Power Plant in Palo for 32 years. He was very dedicated to his work.

On May 18, 2002, Eddie was united in marriage with Bonnie Lawrence.

He enjoyed jogging, biking, driving his Silver Anniversary Trans Am, riding motorcycles/scooters with his wife, their cats, and being with family and friends.

Eddie will be missed by his wife, Bonnie Harrison of Cedar Rapids; his parents, Raymond and Dorothy Harrison of Fredericksburg; his father-in-law, Kenny Lawrence; two brothers, Danny (JoAnn) Harrison of Fredericksburg and Dale (Joan) Harrison of Decorah; a sister, Patricia (Victor) Patterson of Clermont; a sister-in-law, Gina Lawrence-Sokol; two nephews, D.J. (Sara) Harrison of Fredericksburg and Alex (Jessie) Harrison of Wellsburg; a niece, Jamie Harrison of Cedar Falls; four grandnieces, Sierra Harrison of Rochester, Minnesota, and Trista, Jocelyn and Sadie Harrison of Fredericksburg; many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Eddie was preceded in death by his grandparents and a niece, Celena Harrison.

Services were held Monday, Jan. 30, at St. Pius Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids with visitation the night before at Cedar Memorial.

A military graveside service was held Tuesday, Jan. 31, at Rose Hill Cemetery, Fredericksburg.          5u5

Ann Minger

­­­ Valley Community school district of Clermont, Elgin and Wadena in 1962, as she continued her classes at Upper Iowa. She graduated from Upper Iowa in August of 1969.

She taught third grade and retired from teaching in 1987 with fond memories of students who kept in contact with her over the years. Her most memorable experience as a teacher was the visit by Governor Robert Ray, who came to plant trees at the Elgin grade school after one of her students wrote the invitation to the governor.

Ann had many interests and hobbies. When her children were young, she sewed a lot of their clothing.

When Ann retired, she was busy with many local organizations and activities. She was an active member of Holy Name Parish and the Retired Teachers Association. She enjoyed teaching at the one-room schoolhouse during the Fayette County Fair.

In retirement, she started quilting, making graduation quilts for all of her seven grandchildren. She was very interested in ceramics, making many gifts. She and Bob enjoyed having family and friends at their home on Cherry Street. They spent many hours playing cards. She enjoyed traveling – visiting family and friends. Grandchildren had many visits with Grandma, going to local historical sites. One of her retirement joys was being able to get a plane ride with Patrick whenever possible.

In 2007, Ann was one of the first residents, with her dog Lucky, to move into Stoney Brook assisted-living facility in West Union.

In 2010 she moved to Decorah to Eastern Star, where she was currently living when she passed. At Eastern Star she enjoyed being known as the "trivia queen.”

Ann is survived by her children: Beth (Jerry) Einck, Decorah, Iowa; Paul (Diane), Odessa, Florida; Mark, Waite Park, Minnesota; and Patrick (Karen), Chanhassen, Minnesota; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by sister Genevieve McNeil, West Union, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Arlene O'Laughlin, La Crosse, Wisconsin, and Marjorie Strudthoff of West Union, Iowa; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her parents, Ann and A.C. (Bob) Nesbit; nephews Edward McNeil and William O’Loughlin Jr.; and brothers-in-­law Jack McNeil, Dale (Olive) Minger, William O'Laughlin and Bill Strudthoff.

Visitation was Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 from 4-7 pm at Holy Name Catholic Church, West Union, Iowa, with a Rosary at 4 p.m. and Scripture Service at 7 pm. There was also a one-hour visitation before Mass at the church on Saturday.

Mass of Christian Burial was at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at Holy Name Catholic Church, West Union, Iowa, with Rev. Jim Brokman and Rev. Dale Rausch as the concelebrants.

Burial followed at St. Francis DeSales Catholic Cemetery, Ossian, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa, helped the family with the arrangements.       5u5

Phyllis Ruroden

Phyllis Marian Ruroden, 86, of West Union, Iowa died Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette, Iowa.

Phyllis Marian was born on July 24, 1930 to Elmer and Gladys (Burg) Pinney in Elgin, Iowa.

She graduated from Elgin High School and earned her teaching certificate from Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa.

Phyllis was united in marriage with Dale Ruroden on July 20, 1951.

She was a lifelong member of Bethel Presbyterian Church and belonged to the local quilting group.

After retirement she enjoyed volunteer work, reading to the children at West Union Elementary School.

Phyllis is survived by her children, Lana (Jim Szabo) Mantor of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Terry (Deb) Ruroden of Waterloo, Iowa, Randy (Mary) Ruroden of West Union, Iowa, Robin (Steve) Robinson of Hawkeye, Iowa and Tim (Becky) Rurdoden of Cresco, Iowa; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; a brother, Paul (Karol) Pinney of Anamosa, Iowa; a sister, Cheryl (Chuck) Clemenson of Raymond, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Delores Pinney of Tempe, Arizona and Avis Ruroden of West Union, Iowa; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Ruroden on June 21, 2011; daughter, LeAnn Westendorf; parents, Elmer and Gladys Pinney; brother, Duane Pinney; and sister, Bonnie Miller.

Visitation was held Sunday, January 29, 2017 from 2-5 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 held at 11:00 am on Monday, January 30, 2017 at Bethel Presbyterian Church, West Union, Iowa with Rev. Don Best as the Officiant.

Burial will be at West Union Cemetery, West Union, Iowa at a later date.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.   5u5

Urban Moser

Urban J. Moser, 84, of Oelwein, Iowa, died on Monday evening, January 23, 2017 at Mercy Hospital of Franciscan Sisters in Oelwein.

Mass of Christian Burial:  10:30 A.M. Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Oelwein with Rev. Wayne J. Droessler, Deacon Jim Patera & Deacon Rick Lynch officiating.

Visitation:  3:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Friday and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. on Saturday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein.

Rosary Service:  4:00 P.M. on Friday at the funeral home.

Parish Scripture Service:  6:30 P.M. on Friday at the funeral home.

Interment:  Woodlawn Cemetery, Oelwein, Iowa with a Military Graveside Service.

A Memorial Fund has been established.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Urban John Moser was born on May 30, 1932 in Ossian, Iowa, the son of Athmar C. & Teresa (Moellers) Moser.  After losing his mother at three weeks of age, several family members helped Athmar raise Urbie.  Urbie graduated from St. Francis de Sales Catholic High School in Ossian.  He honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  Urbie moved to Oelwein where he met Francis I. Kappmeyer and they were united in marriage on July 3, 1953 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein.  To this union they were blessed with 4 children.  Frankie died on September 21, 1987.  Urbie was united in marriage to Rose Mary (Eisch) Friis on May 27, 1989 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein.  Urbie’s family expanded to include Rose’s four children.  Urbie worked for Carnation and Swiss Valley for 32 years.  He later drove bus for the Oelwein Community Schools for 16 years and sold monuments for West Union Monument.  Urbie was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a 50-year member of the Oelwein American Legion Ross Reid Post #9.  He enjoyed gardening, wine making, dancing and spending time with his family and friends.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

     Left to honor his memory are his Wife: Rose Moser of Oelwein;  Daughter:  Mary (Rick) Ingersoll of Merrill, Wisconsin;  3 Sons:  Charles (Loretta) Moser of Forsyth, Georgia, Michael (Tina) Moser of Green Lake, Wisconsin & Clark Moser of Oelwein;  2 Step Daughters:  Jacci (Rob) Kaltenbach of Hazleton & Jennifer (Anthony) Buonocore of Ogden, Utah;  2 Step-Sons:  Joe (Deb) Peotter of Riverdale, Utah & Jeff Friis of Sumner;  Many Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren and Many Nieces & Nephews.

    Urbie was preceded in death by his parents, wife: Frankie, daughter-in-law: Maggie Moser, brother: Cleo and 3 sisters:  Geraldine, Ursula and Delores.

Shirley Ann Brainard

Shirley Ann Brainard, 87, of Postville, Iowa died Monday, January 23, 2017 at the Good Samaritan Society, Postville, Iowa. Shirley Ann was born on April 28, 1929 to Nanfred Johannes and Sylvia Jeanette (Forde) Sand. She attended Ossian Schools and graduated in 1947. After graduation Shirley took summer classes at Luther College. She was a substitute teacher at a country school the fall of 1947 and worked at Northern Engraving in Waukon, Iowa from 1971 until her retirement in 1994.

Shirley was united in marriage with John O. Brainard on February 27, 1949 at Ossian Lutheran Church, Ossian, Iowa. She was a member of Post-Franklin Study Club and St. Paul Lutheran Church Choir Church and played music for Ladies Aid. Shirley enjoyed reading, playing piano, listening and singing to music, sewing and baking wonderful bread. The school bus came so close to their home that the kids could run with their homemade toast and peanut butter to catch the bus, the neighbor kids were jealous of their good breakfast. She loved to drive fast.

Shirley is survived by her children, Sylvia Brainard of Mason City, Iowa, Georgianne (Ronald) Kaiser of Garnavillo, Iowa, Roger (Julie) Brainard of Postville, Iowa, Bruce Brainard of Postville, Iowa and Catherine (Larry) Dostal of Coralville, Iowa; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jim Cannella, Jenni Cannella, Reid and Ann Kaiser, Caleb, Kallie, Rachel and Jacob Kaiser, Kori and Clif Spengler, Ethan Robey, Mya and Brennan Spengler, Alicia and Chris Humlicek, Kade, Collin and Alex, Kellie and Matt Robbins, Macie, Khloe and Stella, Sarah and Zach Marsh, August, Courtney Brainard, Justin and Pamela Clark, Caleb and Cassandra, Cory and Megan Clark, Gowen and Aurelia, Kirstin Brainard and Sean Dostal; siblings, Helen Schaeffer of Decorah, Iowa, Richard Sand of Norwalk, California, Marjorie (Tom) Golden of Henderson, Nevada, Janet Pinch of Henderson, Nevada, Elaine (Bob) Evans of Indianola, Iowa and Jacob Sand of Boulder City, Nevada; sisters-in-law, Verna Sand, Carole Sand, Bernice Friederich, Shirley Brainard and Darlene Brainard; former daughter-in-law, Deb Brainard; several cousins and many nieces and nephews.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Nanfred and Sylvia Sand; father-in-law and mother-in-law, George and Eva Brainard; brothers, Robert Sand, Gregory Sand and Nanfred (Bud) Sand; ex-husband, John Brainard; son, Bradley Brainard; son-in-law, James Cannella; in-laws, Dale and Erna Brainard, Lee and Donna Brainard, Keith and Jenetta Brainard, Kenneth and Barbara Schori, Ray Brainard, Gene and Charlene Brainard, Leland and Janice Walby-Glaim, Edgar Brainard, Leslie Poesch, Lester Friederich, Helmer Glaim; and nieces, Jana Rupnick and Rhonda Radloff.

Visitation was Thursday, January 26, 2017 from 4-7 pm at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Postville, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Friday.

Funeral Services were held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 27, 2017 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville, Iowa with Rev. Lynn Noel as the Officiant.

Burial will be at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Postville Good Samaritan Society, Winneshiek Medical Center Hospice and St. Paul Lutheran Church of Postville, Iowa,

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

John Nelson

John William Nelson, 75 of Elkader, Iowa passed away Thursday, February 2, 2017 at the Elkader Hospital.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home is handling cremation arrangements.

Interment will occur at a later date. 

John William Nelson was born on March 1, 1941, to Millard Nelson, Sr. and Myrtle (Moon) Nelson in Clermont. 

He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith at West Clermont Lutheran Church.

During high school John made his mark as an athlete in both football and basketball, and as a thespian active on the speech team and in plays. He served as president of his junior class and was a member of National Honor Society. John graduated from Valley High School, Elgin, in 1959. 

Following high school and a year at college, John joined the United States Air Force.  He served his country for three years by learning Chinese at Yale University and then working as a translator stationed in Okinawa during the early ‘60s.

When he returned to Iowa he worked in various jobs in Muscatine and in Clermont.

He was married to Lynda during this time. 

His career really took off when he moved to Georgia in 1970 to study computers.  He was an early programmer with Data General after completing his schooling.  In the late ‘70s his career was cut short when he was diagnosed with Multiple Scleroses. 

With the end of his career and his marriage, he moved back to Iowa to be near his family.

During the next season of his life, he worked on his brother’s farm and did woodworking with his dad as his health allowed. 

John was baptized as a Jehovah's Witness on February 12, 1994. He was very active in teaching the Bible to others, and was always very generous with his time.

John is survived by his brother, Millard; sister-in-law, LaVonne; nieces: Ann (Ron) Rowland of Des Moines, Linda (Mic) Martin of Decorah, Laurie (Jim) Biedermann of Decorah; nephews Mark (Denise) Nelson of Clermont, Jim Fossan of Durham, North Carolina; and many of his friends from the Elkader Kingdom Hall.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Millard Sr. and Myrtle Nelson, his sister, Judy Fossan, an infant sister, Josephine, and a nephew, Thomas Fossan.

Service: Monday February 6, 2017 at 11 am, Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Elkader, Iowa; Officiating - Dan Potter.

Visitation: 10-11 am Monday February 6, 2017 at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Elkader, Iowa.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service assisted the family with services.

Online condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com.

         6u6

Kenneth Lauer

Kenneth Harold Lauer, 84, of Cedar Rapids, was called home Thursday, February 2, 2017 following a short stay at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids surrounded by his loving family.

His funeral service was held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids.

A celebration of his life took place from 5:00 - 8:00 PM Monday, Feb. 6, 2017 at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories Stateroom.

He will be laid to rest at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.

Ken was born to Harold and Evelyn Lauer in their home in Eldorado, Iowa on February 4, 1932.

He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Patricia Graessle, on June 5, 1955. Their union was blessed with two sons, Scott and Brian.

Ken’s happiest moments were times spent with the family he treasured so much.

Ken retired in 2007 after 40 years at Kirkwood Community College as a Financial Aid Officer.

In his free time, Ken enjoyed gardening, running, hunting and fishing, outdoor activities, and photography.

He had a strong faith and was an active member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Rolland Lauer.

He leaves his wife of 62 years, Pat; two sons, Scott (Kecia) Lauer and Brian (Becki) Lauer; four grandchildren, Savannah, Noah, Emily, and Anthony “AJ”; two sisters-in-law, Paula Lauer, and Shirley (Sherwin) Taradash; two nieces, Dee Ann Rexroat and Jane Moderhack; and two nephews, David Rexroat and Kurt Lauer to cherish his memory.

He will be remembered for his infectious smile, enjoyable sense of humor, unwavering faith, consistently positive spirit, and fierce loyalty to the things he cared about including his family, Kirkwood, and his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. He will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Alzheimer’s Association, or St. Luke’s Hospital Ed and Joan Hemphill Hospice Unit.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.       6u6