Willet Miller

Willet William Miller (89) passed away at his home on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017, surrounded by family and loved ones. 

Visitation will be held Friday, Nov. 3, from 4 – 7 pm at West Clermont Lutheran Church, and a memorial service will be on Saturday, Nov. 4, at 11 am, also at West Clermont Lutheran Church. Additional visitation will be held from 10 am until service time at the church.

Willet was born March 5, 1928, to William and Gussie (Kuppan) Miller. 

He was baptized and confirmed at West Clermont Lutheran Church, and he graduated from Clermont High School in 1945. 

In 1948 he married his childhood sweetheart Lois Olson.

The Millers began farming in 1948 and established a registered dairy herd called “Wilomi Holsteins.” Willet and Lois were the first farmers in Fayette County to be recognized as total cooperators with the Soil Conservation Service. 

In 1978 his son Christian purchased their farm, and Willet began working as a claims adjuster for Farmer’s Mutual and Grinnell Mutual Insurance Company until he retired in 1990.

Willet became a Mason in 1970. 

In 1971 he joined the Shrine and the Northeast Iowa Shrine Motor Clowns. He purchased a unicycle on his 46^th birthday and performed as “Wheelie” the clown. Willet rode in a total of 763 parades throughout the years, helping to raise funds for the crippled and burned children’s hospitals. He was also a member of Clowns of America, International Unicycle Assn, Unicycle Society, and “On One Wheel.” He acquired skills of juggling, tight wire walking, diesel sticks, roller balls, unicycle on the tight wire, and was a master with balloon sculpturing.

He was active in the Republican Party and served as Fayette County Chairman, District Delegate, State Delegate, and a Regan Delegate in the 1976 Republican Convention. 

Willet loved nature and described the beauty and magnitude of nature with poetry. 

He also wrote many humorous poems describing actual events. He had a keen wit and loved puns that the grandkids called “Grandpa Jokes.” 

Willet was an avid sports fan and made countless trips to Chicago to see the “Wait till next year” Cubs. He was also a big fan of the Chicago Bears, Iowa Hawkeyes, and local schools. He enjoyed watching family members and grandchildren participating in sports. Another highlight was skydiving on his 80^th birthday. 

His greatest love was his wife Lois and his entire family.

Willet will be missed by Lois, his loving wife of 69 years, five children: Leslie (Pauline) Miller of Ames, Paul (Carol) Miller of Clermont, Christian (Stephania) Miller of Clermont, Caroline (Kevin) Bemiss of West Union, David (Karen) Miller of Clermont; his sister Augusta Jensen of West Union; 17 grandchildren: Zach (Amanda) Miller, Sarah Miller, Jennifer (Mike) Elsbernd, Lisa (Matt) Grimm, John (Amber) Miller, Christopher (Kate) Miller, Alissa (Charlie) Gunsolly, Marcel Coco, Anton (Jarka) Coco, Patrik Coco, Laura (Tim) Remus, Andrew (Dani) Haskenhoff, Kedrick Bemiss, Jenna Bemiss, Kjerstin Miller, Rebecca Miller, and William Miller; 16 great-grandchildren: Elsa, Sylvia, Thorin, Bryce, Kaelyn, Layla, Brenna, Liam, Alyssa, Ben, Ava, Ian, Filip, Jozefina, Camden and Lennon. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Gussie Miller; and two sisters, Beryl Swenson and Mildred Habeger.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials that will be given to the Shrine Hospital and West Clermont Lutheran Church.     44u44

Janet Helgerson

Janet Helgerson, 55, of Clermont died Friday, Oct. 27, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at North Fayette Valley Middle School, Elgin.

Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at West Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, and for one hour before services at the school on Friday.

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

Lorraine (Kittleson) Hoover

Lorraine (Kittleson) Hoover Star Valley Ranch, Wyo., formerly of Clermont, died early on the morning of Oct. 12, 2017. 

She was cremated, and her ashes will be buried in the Thayne, Wyo., cemetery on June 30, 2018.

Lorraine Alice Hoover was born June 30, 1932 in her family’s farmhouse in Clermont, Iowa. Her family included four siblings and parents Clifford and Alice Kittleson. 

Lorraine was a force to be reckoned with at her little high school in Clermont. A talented basketball player and straight A student, she was beautiful and popular. 

After she graduated from Clermont High School in 1949, she attended Luther College in Decorah, where she got her teaching degree. 

Never one to be afraid of hard work, Lorraine spent her summers working jobs that ranged from running the exchange in the telephone office to pulling burrs out of peas on a conveyor belt in a cannery.  

In 1954 Lorraine went West to California to teach at a religious school in North Hollywood. That is where she met and married Donald Hoover in 1955. Eventually they settled in Santa Paula, Calif., where they raised their family.  

Lorraine taught at Isbell Junior High School for 20 years and retired to Star Valley Ranch, Wyo., in 1988.  She enjoyed her time in Star Valley very much, golfing with friends, bird watching and in general rejoicing in life.  

When Don become ill she cared for him until his death in 1996.  

Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Alice Kittleson; her husband, Don; and her brothers Dean and Howard.  

She is survived by one brother, Gerald Kittleson; and her sister; Carolyn Ellinghysen; her children, John, Karin, James, and Kristin; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  44u44

Janet Helgerson

Janet Kay Helgerson, 55, of West Union, Iowa, passed away Friday, Oct. 27, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union, after a nearly four-year battle with cancer.  

She was born Dec. 31, 1961, to Kenneth and Beverly (Howard) Strong in Postville. 

She was baptized and confirmed at Illyria Community Church in rural Elgin. 

Janet graduated from Valley High School, Elgin in 1980. She attended the University of Northern Iowa for two years before transferring to Luther College in Decorah, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education with an emphasis in piano performance.  

Janet was united in marriage with Michael Helgerson on April 17, 1982, at Illyria Community Church, Elgin. Three children were born to this union, Leah, Robert and John. 

Janet began her career in 1986 at Valley Elementary, teaching general music before taking on duties at the Valley Junior High and High School in 1989. “Mrs. H.,” as her students knew her, grew the vocal music program over the next several years to record participation numbers. Janet contributed her musical talents to many extracurricular school and community activities throughout the years and chaperoned students several times on the Iowa Ambassadors of Music trips to Europe. 

Janet was a member of West Clermont Lutheran Church, where she was the longtime accompanist and organist. 

Janet was a wonderful daughter, wife, mother and grandmother and treasured the times when the house was full of family and laughter. She was extremely proud of her three children and loved watching her two grandsons grow into bright young boys. 

In her free time, Janet enjoyed traveling, visiting with friends and family, reading and cooking.

Janet is survived by her husband of 35 years, Michael, of West Union; her children, Leah (Martin) Broman of Minneapolis, Minn., Robert (Danielle) Helgerson of Lisbon and John Helgerson of Des Moines; two grandchildren, Lucas Broman and Evan Helgerson; her parents, Kenneth and Beverly Strong of Elgin; siblings Chris (Robyn) Strong of Elgin, Carol (Leon) Griebenow of Elgin and Linda (Rick) Davis of Wadena; and several nieces and nephews. Janet was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Harold and Zella Strong and maternal grandparents, Archie and Alice Howard; and parents-in-law, Thelmer and LaRue Helgerson. 

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3, 2017, at North Fayette Valley Middle School, Elgin, with Rev. Phillip Olson as the officiant.

Inurnment will be at a later date.

The family has set up a memorial fund in Janet Helgerson's name at Kerndt Brothers Bank at 205 N. Vine Street, West Union, IA 52175 or 200 Mill Street, Clermont, IA 52135. Donations can be sent to the banks directly or sent in care of Mike Helgerson at 8136 Harness Road, West Union, IA 52175. 

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, helped the family with the arrangements.     45u45

John O'Hara

John Roger O’Hara, 84, passed away at his home in Decorah on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017. 

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by the Rev. Phillip Gibbs on Thursday, Nov. 2, at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Decorah.

Interment was in the church cemetery. 

Casket bearers were Ryan Sparrgrove, Joshua Sparrgrove, Travis Sparrgrove, Montana Bohr, Jesse Halweg, Colten Kinnison, Zach Benda, and Cavin Bohr.

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

John was born Sept. 23, 1933, the son of Joseph and Catherine (Ryan) O’Hara in rural Allamakee County.

John graduated from St Patrick’s Catholic School in Waukon in 1952. 

John married Kathleen Ryan on May 14, 1960 and to this union five children were born. The couple later divorced. 

John always wanted to be a farmer and to that end he worked for various farmers until he was given the opportunity to operate his own farm in the Frankville area. In 1968 John realized his dream and bought a farm in Glenwood Township. On this farm he raised dairy cows, hogs and horses as well as the crops to feed them. For a number of years he was also a Funk’s seed corn dealer. John learned how to raise dairy heifers for showing even though he had never been in 4-H. 

His love of horses was embraced by his children and he enjoyed riding in a couple of parades. John enjoyed showing off his refurbished tractors in parades and rides with the Rivers and Bluffs Tractor Club. He was an avid fan of classic country music and dancing. 

On Aug. 21, 1999 John was united in marriage to Jenny Larson. Together they enjoyed dancing, playing cards, bowling, having friends over for coffee and a little traveling. In 2002 they moved into Decorah. 

John continued to help out at the farm as often as he could. 

As important as his farm was to him, John put his family first by hosting the annual O’Hara family reunion, holiday celebrations, and attending events that involved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He taught his children to be good workers, to be a good sibling, build a fence, drive a tractor, how to dance, but especially how to be a good parent.   

John was preceded in death by his loving wife of 18 years, Jenny; his parents Joseph and Catherine O’Hara; his siblings Francis Schwarz, Dorothy (Barney) Zeimet, Donald (Janet) O’Hara, Robert O’Hara, Jim (Mae) O’Hara, and Kathryn (Tony) Scudella.

He is survived by his brother Kenneth (Shirley) O’Hara of Waukon; his five children: Peggy (John) Sparrgrove of Castalia, Kayleen (Jerry Gray) Kinnison of Mazomanie, Wis., Patsy (Mark Hageman) O’Hara of Decorah, Roger (Katrina McCabe) O’Hara of Decorah, and Keri (Tim) Sand of Mabel, Minn.; his stepchildren: Chuck Larson of Waukon, Steve (Jean) Larson of Livermore, Deanne (John) Stogdell of Mt. Pleasant, and Thomas (Karen) Larson of Richfield, Minn.; 25 grandchildren: Ryan (Brianne) Sparrgrove, Amanda, Joshua, Travis Sparrgrove; Mikayla Kinnison, Colten (Meghan Kerrigan) Kinnison, Jesse          (Alyssa) Halweg, Jenna (Scott Cole) Halweg, Montana and Cavin Bohr; Zach, Desiree Benda; Addyson, Isabella, Gabrielle Sand; Kristen (Jim) Quayle; Michael Poole, Jeremy Larson, Jessica (Matt) Emerson, Christopher Larson, Eric  (Becky) Larson, Karen (Dallas) Clark, Jeff (Shawna) Larson, John Russ Stodgell, Conrad Stodgell, Thomas Stodgell, Rachel and Sarah Larson; 22 great-grandchildren: Dillion, Blake, Chloe Sparrgrove; Taylor Sparrgrove-Nelson; Brekin, Brinley Halweg; Grayson Benda; Mike Woodruff; Lexie Hobson; Brianne Rice; Cameron Emerson; Jacob, Connor Larson; Dane, Camden, Hazel Clark; Eddie, Charlotte, Logan, Kendra Larson; Gabrielle, Hendrix Stodgell; and numerous generations of nephews, nieces, and friends.

    45u45

John Meyer

John Charles Meyer, 83, completed his Baptismal journey in the early morning of Nov. 3, 2017, stepping into the arms of Jesus while in loving care at the Lutheran Retirement Home in Northwood, Iowa. Though John lost his 21-year battle with cancer, his spirit lives eternally.

John Charles Meyer was born June 18, 1934 in Ossian, Iowa, the son of Lawrence and Ethel (Schutte) Meyer. 

He graduated from Ossian High School in 1952, and went on to marry his sweetheart, Elaine Lois Groth, July 4, 1954 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Postville.

John began a 20-year career in the United States Air Force in October of 1954. He served four years enlisted prior to attending Wartburg College in Waverly, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in German. 

Shortly following graduation, John returned to the Air Force, completing Officer Training School, and retired a Major on Dec. 1, 1978. Serving his country for 20 years, John's assignments took him, his bride, and growing family around the United States and the world, including Germany, Japan, Okinawa, Iceland, Colorado, Montana, Mississippi, Texas, and Indiana. John also served a tour of duty in Vietnam.

After serving his country as an airman, John returned to Iowa to serve the Lord and his community, first as the administrator of the Postville Community Hospital, Postville, for eight years, and then as the administrator of the Lutheran Retirement Home, Northwood, for nine years, until retiring from professional service June 30, 1999.

In retirement John and Elaine enjoyed traveling together for 18 years, visiting friends and relatives, and supporting their many philanthropic causes. 

John was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church, Northwood, the Northwood Lions Club, and Our Buddies VFW Memorial Post 6779, Northwood.

John was admired by the many people whose lives he touched. 

His memory will be cherished by those who knew him, including his wife of 63 years, Elaine (Groth) Meyer; his five children, John Dennis Meyer of Springfield, Ore., Laverne Bruce Meyer (Carol) of Elgin, Rebecca Lynn Trump of Denver, Colo., Elizabeth Ann Billmeyer (Jack) of Postville, and Anneliese Kay Schneider (David) of Golden, Colo.; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two sisters and two brothers; many nieces and nephews, other extended family members, and countless friends. 

John was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Ethel Meyer.

Visitation will be held 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10, 2017, at the Conner Colonial Chapel, 1008 First Ave. South, Northwood, Iowa, and at the church one hour prior to the funeral service.

Funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, at the First Lutheran Church, 309 North 9th Street, Northwood, Iowa, with the Reverend Barbara Wills officiating. 

Military honors will be conducted at the church Saturday by members of Our Buddies VFW Memorial Post 6779, Northwood, and members of the United States Air Force Honor Guard. 

Burial will follow in the Postville Cemetery, Postville.

    45u45

Carolyn Koester

Carolyn Koester, 70, of West Union passed away peacefully Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, at the Good Samaritan Society – West Union due to complications of scleroderma.

Services were held Tuesday, Nov. 7, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado.

After 25 years of struggling with the disease, Carolyn donated her body to Mayo Health Clinic in an effort to further the study of scleroderma.

Carolyn Koester was born Feb. 15, 1947, in Lincoln, Neb. She was the daughter of Robert and Helene (Alfrey) Asher.

Early in her life, she and her family moved from Lincoln and settled in Thornton, Colo., a suburb of Denver.

During her childhood, Carolyn grew a love for Colorado that she never lost, including views of the mountains, camping with her father and siblings and, of course, the Broncos.

This is where Carolyn was also baptized in the Christian faith on April 1, 1956, and confirmed in the Lutheran Church on May 27, 1962.

After graduation from Thornton (Colo.) High School, Carolyn discovered she had an allergy to the grass on the Colorado State University campus, which led her to change plans and transfer to Dana College in Blair, Neb. This is where she met Kenneth Koester.

The couple were married Aug. 26, 1967, and immediately started traveling for military service. During their travels, their sons were born, and they met many of their lifelong friends, who remained important to her until the end.

Upon returning to the Koester family farm near Eldorado, Iowa, Carolyn held a variety of positions in community businesses until 1988, when she returned to Luther College to obtain a degree in social work.

When she received her B.A. degree in 1992, her passionate advocacy for the rights of elderly members of society began. 

Unfortunately, this was also the year that Carolyn was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called scleroderma.

Carolyn worked as a social worker for several adult care facilities in northeast Iowa. The majority of her working years were spent at the Good Samaritan Society – West Union. During this time she worked with many boards and organizations to ensure that the highest quality of care was being provided to residents of these facilities.

She also worked closely with the Alzheimer’s Association to help with fundraising. With her guidance, there were several years in a row when the West Union Alzheimer’s Memory Walk was one of the largest fundraising efforts in the state of Iowa.

Outside of her career, Carolyn will be remembered by her family as passionately loving her grandchildren and her flowerbeds. Over the years, her scleroderma limited the activities in which she could participate. However, she loved being present. She was at all of the music, acting and athletic events she could possible attend. She loved the noise of all her grandchildren playing together. Most of all, she just loved being near them and watching them mature. Until recent years, Carolyn would work with the grandchildren to plan and execute extremely colorful flowerbeds that she enjoyed watching flourish.

Upon reflection, the word that best defines the life of Carolyn Anne (Asher) Koester is passionate. She was passionate about her family, especially the love of her grandchildren. She was passionate about the rights and respectful care of the elderly. She was passionate for many years about fundraising and partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association. If she cared about an issue, her passion was reflected in her actions and words surrounding that issue.

Carolyn is survived by her husband, Kenneth Koester of West Union; her children, Kenneth II and Kimberly (Jones) of Spokane, Wash., and Michael and Phyllis (Davis) Koester of Manlius, N.Y.; her grandchildren, Bret and Sally (Wagner), Joshua, Mariah, Asher, Preston and Claire Koester; her siblings, Catherine (Asher) Lombardi, Richard Asher, and Kevin Asher; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, Charlie and Frances (Wagner) Koester; and her brother, Robert Asher.  46p46

Paula Ege

Paula Charlotte Ege, 86, of Hawkeye passed away peacefully after a short five-month stay at the Good Samaritan Home in West Union on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017.  

Paula was born on July 14, 1931 in Clermont to Alpha and Vera (Meyer) Hangartner.  

Paula and her three sisters, Glenice, Vera, and Darla grew up on a farm just outside of Clermont.  She enjoyed life on the farm and spent a lot of time hanging out with her dad. Paula was a very active young lady, even in the wintertime. She enjoyed ice skating on the Turkey River and cross-country skiing around the farm and woods nearby.

Paula was united in marriage with Paul Dean Bement of West Union in 1948 and they lived in a cute quonset house on Cherry Street in West Union. Her first child, Paul Dean, was stillborn.  Afterwards, she had Paul Garry Bement and Kenneth Dean Bement.  

Her husband Paul passed away in 1967.  

Paula had another bouncing baby boy, Jeremy Leroy Bement. After marrying Dennis Robert Ege, she finally had her first girl, Kerrilee Roberta Ege in 1975. In 1976, the family moved to Main Street in Hawkeye.  

Paula was a very hard worker.  She cleaned houses for folks and also did interior painting and wall papering. 

She had a large garden at home as well as smaller flower gardens around the house. Paula is best known for her large cactus collection and for her cake decorating. She was actually interviewed by the Waterloo Courier newspaper for her cactus collection. 

Cake decorating was a special hobby of hers.  She did cakes for all occasions and her gift to some family members for weddings was the cake! 

Paula also enjoyed collecting salt and pepper shakers and had quite the collection. 

Finally, one of her greatest joys was hosting family get-togethers. She hosted all the main holidays, including the summer family picnic at Backbone State Park in Strawberry Point. 

Paula is survived by one sister; Glenice Thompson of Decorah; her sons; Paul (Tina) Bement of Auburn and Jeremy (Lynn) Bement of Burnsville, Minn.; daughter-in law, Karen Bement of Elgin; and daughter Kerrilee (Keith) Bunge of Redmond, Wash.; along with many grandkids and great-grandkids who were her pride and joy.

Paula also wrote many poems and many were published. A poem she wrote that was published in the poetry book, Impressions, published in 1986. 

Visitation will be held from 10 am to 1 pm on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017 at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union.

There will be a private family inurnment at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Auburn.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation service, West Union, is helping the family with arrangements.     46u46

Donna Flick

Donna Sue Flick, 72, of Wadena and longtime resident of Sioux City, died at her home on Monday, Nov. 6, 2017. 

Donna Sue was born Oct. 2, 1945 to Melvin and Virginia (Guinn) Heuton in Sioux City. 

She graduated from Central High School in Sioux City.

Donna was united in marriage with Ronald Flick on Dec. 17, 1966. Two children were born to this union.

Donna and Ron were longtime residents of Sioux City before moving to Mission Viejo, Calif., in 1987. They retired back to Iowa in 2007 where they made their home in the Lima area.     

She enjoyed cooking, gardening, canning, quilting and talking with friends over a cup of tea.

Donna is survived by her husband, Ronald Flick of Wadena; children Rhonda (Ed) Betsworth of Cedar Rapids and Donald (Teresa) Flick of California; grandchildren Elena, Jannessa, Apollo and Larrissa Betsworth; and siblings Tennis (Patti) Heuton, Mary Homesly and Betty (Bruce) Stroman.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Virginia; and one brother, Mike Heuton.

Funeral Services were held at 1 pm on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017 at Lima Church, 16550 Heron Rd., Wadena, IA 52169.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elgin, helped the family with arrangements.    46u46

Theresa (Langreck) Zipse

Theresa M. (Langreck) Zipse, 97, formerly of St. Lucas, died Oct. 29, 2017, in Owatonna, Minn.

She was interred in Grandview Cemetery in Austin, Minn.

Robert Kime

Robert K. Kime, 79, of Fayette died Monday, Nov. 13, 2017 at Mercy Hospital of Franciscan Sisters in Oelwein.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, Nov. 17, 2017, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette with Rev. Don Komboh celebrating.

Burial followed at the church cemetery with military rites provided by American Legion Post #339 of Fayette. 

Memorials may be made to the family for later designation. 

Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Fayette assisted Bob’s family. 

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

Robert Keith, son of Byron and Pearl (Richardson) Kime, was born Nov. 29, 1937, in Waterloo. 

He was baptized in the Lutheran Faith in Waterloo and later confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye. 

He received his early education in the country schools of rural Hawkeye and would later receive his G.E.D. 

Bob served in the United States Marine Corps from 1956 prior to being honorably discharged in 1958. 

On June 6, 1959, he was united in marriage with Irma Bouska at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waucoma. The couple made their home in rural Fayette and farmed for many years. 

In addition to farming, he also was an electrical lineman. 

Bob was a longtime member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette, American Legion Post #339 of Fayette, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #55. 

He enjoyed the Green Bay Packers, bird watching, Western movies, and playing cards (especially Wizard with the grandkids). 

Bob is survived by his wife, Irma of Fayette; seven children, Cindy Kime of Oelwein, Lori Kime of Fayette, Sharon (Mike) Rettinger of Oelwein, Lori Kime of Fayette, Chris (Kim) Kime of Hawkeye, Dean (Patty) Kime of Merrill, Lisa (Warren) Steinkamp of Ankeny, and Ed (Lori) Kime of Sumner; 25 grandchildren, Kaleb, Collin, and Mikaela Kime, Kari, Andrew, Benjamin, and Noah Rettinger, Abby (Brandon) Bohlen, Sam (Kelli Sorenson), Maggie, and Lily Kime, Lukas, and Ryan Olson, Michael, and Steven (Brittney Treloar) McAllen, Mitchell and Nicholas Kime, Erin (Tyler) Casey, and Beth Bonnichsen, Ethan, Brady, Jestin, James, Kiley, and Owen Kime; six great-grandchildren, Van, and Declan Kime, Jayla, Remington, and Annabelle McAllen, and Sophia Casey; two brothers, Byron (Catherine) Kime Jr. of Bettendorf, and Dave Kime of Hazleton; one sister, Mary (Walt) Wehlry of Las Vegas, Nevada; one sister-in-law, Mary Kime of Sumner; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, Keith, who died in infancy, and Kraig, who died in 2012; one grandson, Aaron Rettinger, who died in 2004; one brother, William; and one sister-in-law, Linda Kime.                47u47

Merlin Imoehl

Merlin Victor Imoehl, 84, of Decorah, IA, formerly of Luana, IA, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, November 10, 2017, at Barthell OES Home. Merlin was born on May 27, 1933, to Frank and Angela (Hageman) Imoehl of Festina, IA. He was baptized and confirmed at Our Lady of Seven Dolors in Festina, where he also graduated from the eighth grade. After school, he helped on the family farm before serving in the U.S. Army from January 27, 1954, to January 12, 1956 in Heidelberg, Germany. During his service, Merlin obtained his G.E.D. 

On June 1, 1957, he was joined in marriage with Anita Evelyn Reicks at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas, IA. They farmed together near Festina until 1962 when they purchased their farm by Luana and dedicated themselves to building their farm and raising their family. In 1990, they moved to Postville, IA, and then to Decorah, IA, in 2008. Even after retirement, Merlin was often found on the family farm during the planting and harvesting seasons.

Merlin valued many things, with God, family and farming at the top of the list. He was never one to turn down a card game, share a joke with friends or trade philosophies on life. To many he was a soft-spoken man with an easy smile. Merlin enjoyed softball in his younger years, fishing (though he rarely found the time) and golfing. He loved music, and often whistled while he worked in a way that sounded like a baby bird chirping. Merlin wished he had learned to play an instrument, but he made up for that with singing and dancing, and he especially loved to polka. He was always willing to lend a hand, enjoyed coffee with friends, riding his bicycle to visit buddies at Eastern Star, and drives through the countryside to look at farms and the progress of crops. He was a proud, humble man who tried to live honestly and do what was right. 

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 60 years, Anita of Decorah, IA; six children Cheryl (Martin) Evans of Bloomington, MN, Linda (Gary) Hooper of Luana, IA, Donna Imoehl of Eden Prairie, MN, Ellen Imoehl of Decorah, IA, Bob (Denise) Imoehl of Luana, IA, and Beth (Scott) Feickert of Bloomington, IN; seven grandchildren Alison (Austin) Warren, Zyann Hooper, Kara Hooper, Brandon Imoehl, Grant Imoehl, Seth Feickert, and Greta Feickert; great-granddaughter Crosby Warren; brother Nilus Imoehl; brother and spouse Laverne and Leonilla Imoehl; sister Corrina Steinlage; and sisters-in-law Alvina Imoehl and Arlene Wilusz.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Angela (Hageman) Imoehl; parents-in-law James “Jake” and Eleanor (Busche) Reicks; brothers Jerome Imoehl and Ralph Imoehl; sisters and their spouses Valeria and Gordian Lensing, and Eleanora and Guido "Pete" Franzen; brother-in-law Leo Steinlage; and sister-in-law Jeanette Imoehl.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Winneshiek Medical Center Home Health and Hospice WMC Rehab Department, Barthell OES Home and St. Benedicts Church, Decorah, Iowa.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 17, 2017 from 4-8 pm with a 4:00 pm Rosary and a 7:00 pm Scripture Service at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, Iowa. There will also be a one hour visitation before Mass at the church on Saturday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Monona, Iowa with Rev. Phillip Gibbs as the Celebrant.

Burial with Military Rites will follow at St. Patrick Catholic Church Cemetery, Monona, Iowa.

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

Kathleen Duffy

Kathleen A. Duffy, 78, of Sumner, died Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017, at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sumner with Rev. Don Komboh celebrating the Mass. 

Interment followed at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, rural Sumner. 

Memorials may be made to the family for later designation. 

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

Kathleen, daughter of Matthew and Bernice (Marr) Kelly, was born July 25, 1939, at New Haven. 

She was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter Catholic Church in New Haven.

Kathleen received her early education in the New Haven Schools and graduated from New Haven High School in 1957. She continued her education at Mount Mercy College and graduated with a Teaching Certificate in 1959. 

Kathleen taught elementary school in Winthrop, prior to being united in marriage with Jim Duffy on June 10, 1961, at St. Peter Catholic Church in New Haven. The couple made their home in rural Sumner, where they farmed for many years.

Kathleen was a longtime member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sumner, where she sang in the Church Choir for many years. 

She was also a member of a local card club. Kathleen enjoyed reading, music, baking, sewing, but most especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

Kathleen is survived by her husband, Jim of Sumner, two sons, Patrick (Lisa) Duffy of Sumner and Michael (Laura) Duffy of Eagan, Minn.; five grandchildren, Shane and Brennan Duffy of Sumner, Callen, Lucas, and Maria Duffy of Eagan, Minn.; one brother, Pat Kelly of Fort Smith, Ark.; and one sister, Mary Kelly of Yankton, S.D.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one daughter, Ellen, who died July 30, 2011; one brother, Larry Kelly; and one sister, Ann Appleton.   48u48

Margerete Stammeyer

Margerete Matilda (Tillman) Stammeyer entered into her eternal rest on Nov. 30, 2017 at the New Hampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, New Hampton, Iowa. 

Margerete was born on Feb. 24, 1933 on the family farm near Lawler, Iowa to Edward and Catherine (Kipp) Tillman. 

She graduated from Waucoma High in 1951. 

She met the love of her life Donald Stammeyer at a dance at the Starlite Ballroom in Lawler. They were married on Oct. 2, 1951 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Waucoma, Iowa, and to this union 14 children were born. 

In her spare time from raising her children, she worked as a dishwasher at the White House Supper Club in St. Lucas and as a custodian for Sara Lee in New Hampton where she retired. 

Margerete loved to play Yahtzee, Marbles and cards with her family. She enjoyed putting puzzles together after her retirement. She would marvel at family gatherings at what she and Don had created. 

She will be welcomed at Heaven's Gate by her loving husband, her daughter Susan, her parents, her sister Dorothy and brothers Joseph, Marcellus and Herbert. 

Those left to cherish her memory are her sons, Steve (Gail) of Lawler, Mike (Sue) of Fort Atkinson, Charlie of Calmar, Kurt of Elgin, Brian (Janette) of St. Lucas and James (Patty) of Ossian; her daughters Marge (Burt) Ostert of Madison, Wis., Diane (Jeff) Molokken of West Union, Donna (John) Callan of Waucoma, Angie (Sam) Smith of Era, Texas, Arlene (Ed) Molokken of West Union, Joyce (Marti) McLain of Albia, Kay (Thomas) Gardner of Elkader; her brothers John (late Betty) of Dubuque, Robert (Cynthia) of Clermont, Merle (Pam) of Belvidere, Ill.; and sisters Alvera (late Marvin) Kleve of Postville and Phyllis (late Donald) Massman of West Union; 38 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren.

  A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 am on Monday, Dec. 4, 2017 at St. Luke Catholic Church, St. Lucas, Iowa with Rev. Kyle Digman as the Celebrant.

Burial followed at St. Luke Catholic Cemetery, St. Lucas, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa helped the family with arrangements.      49u49

Raymond "Harry" Snyder

Raymond "Harry" Snyder, age 63 of Alpha, Iowa died Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017 at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City following a stroke he suffered on Nov. 7.

Private family services will take place at a later date.

Hugeback Johnson Funeral Home in Waucoma is assisting the family with arrangements.    

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

Raymond Lyle “Harry” Snyder was born Sept. 10, 1954, in Sumner, IA, the son of Robert and Betty (Nierling) Strempke. His father died when he was six weeks old, and his mother later remarried Ronald Snyder.

He received his education in the Sumner, Fredericksburg and Nashua schools and was a 1972 graduate of North High School in West Union. 

On July 2, 1977, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church – Richfield, rural Sumner, IA, he married Kay Treloar. To this union three children were born, Clayton, Josh and Kelly. 

Harry was a self-employed carpenter for over 45 years and loved his work every single day. His motto was ‘If you love your work, you never work a day in your life’. He enjoyed his fly-in fishing trips to Canada and loved being on the water, especially the years they spent at the Mississippi. 

He had served for many years on the North Fayette County Community School Board and was a current board member of the Waucoma Event Center. 

He will be remembered by his family as their favorite boss, a mentor and teacher, a comedian, a friend as well as a loving husband and father.

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Kay; two sons, Clayton (Julie) Snyder of Alpha, Josh Snyder of W. Des Moines; one daughter, Kelly (Michael Keating) Snyder of Cedar Falls; two grandchildren, Jordon Snyder and Olivia Snyder; mother-in-law, Judy Treloar of Waucoma; two brothers, Terry (Erlyss) Snyder of Monona, Jeff (Deb) Snyder of Hawkeye; two brothers-in-law, Kevin (Teresa) Treloar of Hendersonville, TN, Kurt Treloar of Waverly; sister-in-law, Kim (Rick) Conrad of Waucoma; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Sandy Kleppe; and father-in-law, Jack Treloar.     49u49

Emylee Anglen

Emylee Linda Sue Anglen passed away Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017. 

She was born July 25, 1997 in Bolivar, MO, the daughter of Chad and Dawn (Matt) Anglen.

Emylee had a sweet, gentle spirit. She loved her family and friends deeply. She worked with people who needed help with everyday challenges and developed close relationships with her clients. Her compassion and empathy were two of her strongest traits. She was always ready for an adventure, loved the outdoors, and embraced life. She will be deeply missed. 

Funeral services were held Monday, Nov. 27, 2017 at 11 AM at Crossway Baptist Church. 

Burial was in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens in Springfield, Mo.

Emylee is survived by her parents: Dawn (Matt) Anglen and Chad Anglen; two sisters, Alyson Anglen and Abygale Anglen; great- grandma: Doris Schott; grandparents: Susan (Schott) Vorwald, Loras Matt (Linda Hansel); aunts and uncles: Loran Matt (Jenny), Heather Ridge (Donald), Shawn Matt (Emily), Venessa Rose (Daniel Anderson), Summer Klemp (Jason), Christopher Matt (Krystal); many cousins, relatives, and friends.

Greenlawn Funeral Home North was in charge of arrangements.          49u49

Karl Zweibahmer

Karl John Zweibahmer, 73, of Ossian, Iowa passed Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017 due to an automobile accident. 

Karl John was born Nov. 20, 1944 to Theodore and Lillie (Svendson) Zweibahmer in Ossian, Iowa. 

He graduated from St. Francis de Sales Catholic School, Ossian, Iowa in 1963.

Karl was united in marriage with Jean Holtey on Oct. 7, 1967 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Ossian Iowa. Together they farmed Southwest of Ossian.

After farming Karl did construction and repair work until retirement. 

Karl was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. 

Karl was a handyman and a jack of all trades repairing almost anything and enjoyed making wood projects for his grandkids. He enjoyed fishing with his kids, grandkids, and friends, hunting with his sons and sitting around any table playing cards with family or friends enjoying a glass of Kesslers. His great joy was his wife, family and grandkids.

Karl is survived by his wife, Jean Zweibahmer of Ossian, Iowa; children, John (Teresa) Zweibahmer of Ossian, Iowa, Jerry Zweibahmer of Fredericksburg, Iowa, Julie (Brian) Pecinovsky of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Jason (Marilyn) Zweibahmer of Festina, Iowa and Jaclyn (Michael) Wittenburg of Robins, Iowa; 14 grandchildren, Michael Zweibahmer, Ashley (Brian) Jestrab, Amanda Zweibahmer and Andrea (Fiance, Tyler Lundtvedt) Zweibahmer, Emily, Allison and Olivia Pecinovsky, Janessa, Mason and Jamison Zweibahmer and Isabella, John, Lillie and Katelyn Wittenburg; two great-grandchildren, Mila and Kyson Jestrab; sisters, Sally (Milt) Kipp of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa and Sandy (Larry) Rothmeyer of Festina, Iowa; brother, Kenny Zweibahmer of Ft. Atkinson, Iowa; brothers-in-law, Bill (Shirley) Holtey of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Bud (Kathy) Holtey of Decorah, Iowa.

Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Theordore and Lillie Zweibahmer and his parents-in-law, Ralph and Carmela Holtey.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:30 am on Friday, Dec. 1, 2017 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church with Rev. Robert Gross and Msgr. Cletus Hawes as the Concelebrants.

Burial followed at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery, Ossian, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Karl’s honor may be made to the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital, Iowa City or the Iowa Knights of Columbus Perpetual Memorial Society Supporting Vocations.

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Ossian, Iowa helped the family with arrangements.         49u49

Mark Whitver

Mark Christian Whitver, 61, of Las Vegas, Nev., passed away Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017. 

Mark Christian Whitver, son of Loren "Buck" Whitver and Alice Mona (Jensen) Whitver, was born Oct. 16, 1956, in Jefferson, Iowa. 

He grew up in West Union, Iowa, and graduated from North High School in 1975. Mark continued his education on a football scholarship at the University of Northern Iowa, where he was a punter and place kicker. 

Mark was very athletic and after football, his many interests included golfing, tennis, racquetball, fishing, and skiing. Mark was also an excellent cook and frequently prepared meals at family gatherings. One of Mark's favorite things to prepare for the family was morel mushrooms, which were so delicious, they would melt in your mouth.

Mark spent the majority of his career in the insurance and financial sales industries, and he also had a passion for working with startup companies. Mark enjoyed helping individuals and companies achieve their goals, and he embodied both competence and confidence.

Mark was extremely personable and never met a stranger. He had a larger-than-life personality and was on a first-name basis with everyone. Mark was also a very generous person and would literally give anyone the shirt off his own back. To that end, he will be missed by many more people than any of us will ever know.

Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Alice Mona Whitver. 

Those left to cherish his memory are his father, Loren "Buck" Whitver of West Union, Iowa; his sister, Marcia (John) Savage of Little Rock, Ark., and daughters Johanna and Erica; his brother, Chris (Jeannine) Whitver of Jackson, Miss., and daughters Lauren and Anna Grace; as well as countless family members and friends. 

There will be no public services. Mark's remains were donated to medical science research. 

The family asks that memorials be made to the West Union Recreation Foundation, P.O. Box 363, West Union, IA 52175.

Condolences to the family may be sent to 401 Hall Street, West Union, IA 52175.       

Corinne Schoien

Corinne Elizabeth Schoien, 91, of Elkader, Iowa, formerly of rural Elgin, Iowa, died Friday, November 17, 2017, at the Elkader Care Center.  Corinne was born on August 13, 1926, in Monona, Iowa, to Herman and Alma (Torkelson) Schoien.  She was baptized and confirmed at the Highland Lutheran Church, rural Elkader where she was a faithful lifelong member.

Corinne graduated from Elkader High School and Junior College.  Following this she graduated from Iowa State with a bachelor’s degree in dietetics.  Corinne then worked at St Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids and St Mary’s in Rochester MN. She then decided to obtain her teaching degree from Upper Iowa University, following that she began her career at Valley Community High School in the fall of 1958 as the home economics teacher for the next 30 years.

Corinne was very proud of her Norwegian heritage. She and her sisters made their first trip to Norway in June of 1973, traveling all through Scandinavia and Western Europe, this being the first of several trips.  They met many relatives on their visits. She also traveled many places with her friends from Iowa State.

Corinne loved to sew, quilt, bake Norwegian treats such as rosettes and krumkake, and of course genealogy. She resided in the family home built by her father until she moved to the Elkader Care Center in April of 2013.  She always had room in her heart and her home for her dogs, her last companion, Charlie, a yellow Lab, was quite a rascal.   Corinne always said when she lost one her many beloved dogs that they went to “dog heaven”.  The coffee pot was always on and the brownies ready to serve who ever stopped by to visit.

She is survived by her niece, Eleanor Reavis Krieg, Elgin IA, as well as great nieces and nephews and cousins.

Corinne was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Irvin Schoien; her sisters, Ernestine Reavis and Arlene Schoien.

Visitation: 9:30 AM until service time at the church on Monday.

Memorial Service: 11:00 AM, Monday, November 27, 2017, at Highland Lutheran Church, rural Elkader with Rev. David L. Coffin officiating.

Inurnment: Highland Lutheran Cemetery, rural Elkader.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home & Cremation Service is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com

Nancy Hruska

Nancy Lou Hruska, 65 of Cresco, Iowa, died Friday, Dec. 1, 2017, at home. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017, at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Cresco with Father Dennis Cain officiating.

Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco.  

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, at Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home in Cresco. Visitation will continue an hour prior to the time of service Thursday at the church.

  Nancy Lou Mary was born on Dec. 5, 1951 in Winneshiek County to Wilfred and Victoria (Hageman) Lansing. 

She was baptized and confirmed in her faith at St. Francis de Sales Church in Ossian. She was a member of the Notre Dame Catholic Church in Cresco. 

On Sept. 2, 1972, Nancy Lou Lansing was united in marriage to the love of her life, Kenneth E. Hruska, at St. Francis de Sales Church in Ossian by the late Monsignor Vernon J. Peter. To this union two children were born: Corey and Christopher (Amy).

  Nancy Lou attended St. Francis de Sales School and graduated from South Winneshiek in Calmar where she was a baton twirler and cheerleader. 

After school, she graduated from Paris Academy in Cedar Rapids as a licensed cosmetologist, working for eight years before starting at the Donaldson Company in 1977. She retired from Donaldson’s in June 2015, after 38 years. 

Nancy Lou and her husband lived on a farm west of Cresco. 

She was an active member of the Notre Dame Catholic Church, serving on the Parish Council from 1991-1994.  She was also on the church board and served as a church circle leader and funeral usher over the years.  

She was an avid Local 120 UAW member from 1977-2015, serving as an auditor at one time. 

She was an active member of the community serving on the Howard County Extension Council from 1998-2010, a lifetime member of Howard County Hospital Auxiliary, a 4-H and Youth Committee member for six years, on the Dollars for Scholars board, a Red Hat Society member, a member of the Turkey River Clown Club, and a Harmony Country Club member.

  Nancy Lou really enjoyed playing cards with the card club and her family, especially her grandchildren. It’s a love she carried on from her parents. She enjoyed cooking and absolutely loved family gatherings with her siblings’ families, her children and grandchildren. She always looked forward to the annual Howard County Fair to exhibit flowers, watch her children and grandchildren exhibit livestock and attend all the nightly shows.

  Nancy Lou is survived by her husband of 45 years, Kenny; sons Corey of Cresco and Christopher (Amy) of Indianapolis, IN; four grandchildren, Kayla, Colton, Isabella and Alexander; siblings, Bernice Lansing of LaCrosse, Wis., Kenneth (Judy) Lansing of Ossian, and Keith (Verna) Lansing of Sumner; and sister-in-law, Norma Jean Hruska of LaCrosse, Wis.

  She is preceded in death by her parents, Wilfred and Victoria Lansing; in-laws, Edward and Rita Hruska; sister, DiAnn Gerleman; and brother, Clifford Lansing.

  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Notre Dame Catholic Church or Notre Dame Catholic School.     49u49