Gerald Schrandt

Gerald “Jerry” Dean Schrandt, 76, of Ossian, Iowa died Sunday, November 19, 2017 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. He was born December 12, 1940 to Herbert and Florence (Torkelson) Schrandt and graduated from St. Francis De Sales with the Class of 1958.

He was united in marriage with Beverly Green on May 28, 1967 at St. Paul Lutheran Church- Postville. Together they farmed and milked registered Brown Swiss and Holsteins.

Sports were important to Jerry. In his early years, he bowled on a Monday night league, played slow pitch softball, and later coached his daughters and grandchildren from the sidelines. He enjoyed betting on his Packers with neighbor Dakota and playing pinnacle with friends.

He could be found drinking coffee in Castalia at “the office”, attending auctions, and antiquing. Jerry also served on the Castalia Fire Department for over 50 years.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Beverly; three daughters, Michelle (Dan) Clements-Grapevine, TX, Julie (George Schaefers) Hoefler-Epworth, IA, and Nicole (Steve) Buchheit-Castalia, IA; grandchildren, Kayla (Riley Sebastian) Buchheit, Nicholas (Olivia McGee) Buchheit, Devyn, Austin, Jenna, Ethan Hoefler, and Nolan Clements; two step-grandchildren Ryan (Krissy) and Darin (Jemma) Buchheit; siblings, Don (Sherri) Schrandt, Joyce (Ray) Piorkowski, and Joan Ameling.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Jerry Ameling; and niece, Mindy Schrandt.

 In lieu of flowers memorials can be designated for Zion Lutheran Church- Castalia, Ossian Ambulance, or Castalia Fire Department.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm on Friday, November 24, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church, Castalia, Iowa. There will also be a one hour visitation before services at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church, Castalia, Iowa with Rev. Alan Wicks as the Officiant.

Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery, Castalia, Iowa.

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

Lafonda Meyer

Lafonda Marie Meyer, 97, of Fayette, Iowa, formerly of West Union, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017, at Maple Crest Manor, Fayette. 

Honoring Lafonda's request, there are no services planned at this time. 

A private family inurnment, at the West Union Cemetery will be held at a later date. 

Lafonda Marie Meyer was born on Dec. 17, 1919, in Wadena, Iowa, to Alden and Lola (Whittenbaugh) Gell.

She graduated from West Union High School. 

In 1940, Lafonda was united in marriage with Merlin "Dutch" Meyer.  The couple made West Union their home for many years.

Lafonda moved to Maple Crest Manor, Fayette, Iowa, in 2005. 

Lafonda was the Deputy County Treasurer in Fayette County for 30 years, retiring in 1985. 

She was a member of DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), Royal Neighbors and Republican Women. 

Lafonda was a longtime member of Bethel Presbyterian Church in West Union.

In her free time, Lafonda enjoyed having coffee with friends, and visiting family. 

She is survived by her daughter, Diane (Robert) Yarcho of Shell Rock, Iowa; two granddaughters, Deena (Ron) Evans of Randalia, Iowa and Karma Knospe of West Union, Iowa; seven great-grandchildren, Trent (Jess) Blessing of Solon, Iowa, Trevor (Maggie) Blessing of Omaha, Neb., Cory (Heidi) Evans of Independence, Iowa, Pamela (Josh) Yager of New Vienna, Iowa, Jeremy (Blaine) Dewey of Crystal, Minn., Valerie Knospe of Randalia, Iowa and Ben (Molly) Knospe of Walcott, Iowa; and seven great-great-grandchildren. 

Lafonda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; infant son, John Meyer; and grandson, Blaine Blessing. 

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home – Fayette is assisting the family with arrangements. 

        50u50

Earl Aanes

Earl L. Aanes, 91, of Fayette died Friday, Dec. 8, 2017 at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.

Memorial Services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017, at First United Methodist Church in Fayette with Rev. Hyeunmee Kang officiating. 

Inurnment will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, at God’s Acres Cemetery in Clermont. 

Visitation will precede the memorial service at the church on Wednesday from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Earl’s name to First United Methodist Church in Fayette. 

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

Earl Leonard, son of Lloyd and Clara (Erikson) Aanes was born March 3, 1926, in Clermont. 

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

He received his education in the Clermont Schools graduating from Clermont High School in 1943. 

Earl was united in marriage with Alma Ruth Grimes on Oct. 12, 1946, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Elgin. The couple would later divorce. 

He was later united in marriage with Ruth Ash. 

For 25 years Earl worked for Carnation Breeding specializing in artificial insemination, and eventually started his own business, A. A. Breeders, retiring in the late 1990’s. 

Earl was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church in Fayette, Fayette Lions Club (was awarded the Lion of the Year Award in 1998), and served on the Fayette City Council from 1990-1993. 

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, loved to travel, yard-work, and tinkering with things.

Earl is survived by his four children, Steve (Sue) Aanes of New London, Susan (Tim) Barry of Appleton, Wis., Janny Dupuis of Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., and Paul (William Best) Aanes of Fridley, Minn.; one step-son, Chuck Ash of Fayette; seven grandchildren, Scott Aanes, Sarah (Christian) Prochaska, Katie Barry, Casey (Jennifer) Barry, Kelsey (Bobbi Pamonicutt) Barry, Greg (Abby) Dupuis, and Stephanie (Dave) Gotlibson; 11 great-grandchildren; one brother, Keith (Helen) Aanes of Edmond, Okla.; one sister, Clarice Gass of West Union; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his second wife, Ruth; one son-in-law, David Dupuis; two step-children, Gary and Karen; two brothers, Lyle and Gerald Aanes; and one sister, Jean Anfinson.   50u50

Linda Bright

Linda​ ​Lou​ ​(Luchsinger)​ ​Bright​ ​of​ ​West​ ​Union,​ ​Iowa​ ​passed​ ​away​ ​on​ ​Dec.​ ​5,​ ​2017​ ​at​ ​home​ ​surrounded​ ​by her​ ​loving​ ​family. 

She​ ​was​ ​born​ ​on​ ​March​ ​21,​ ​1947​ ​in​ ​West​ ​Union,​ ​Iowa,​ ​​ ​eldest​ ​child​ ​of​ ​Lester​ ​and​ ​Lois​ ​(Yauslin)​ ​Luchsinger’s​ ​​ ​three children.​ ​

She​ ​was​ ​baptized​ ​and​ ​confirmed​ ​at​ ​Union​ ​Sunday​ ​School​ ​(United​ ​Methodist,​ ​Clermont).​ ​​ ​

She graduated​ ​from​ ​Valley​ ​School​ ​District​ ​(Clermont)​ ​in​ ​1965.​ ​​After​ ​graduation​ ​she​ ​moved​ ​to​ ​Cedar​ ​Rapids​ ​for employment​ ​at​ ​Square-D. 

Linda​ ​married​ ​Don​ ​Bright​ ​on​ ​Oct. ​22,​ ​1966​ ​at​ ​United​ ​Methodist​ ​Church​ ​in​ ​Elgin,​ ​Iowa.​ ​To​ ​this​ ​union​ ​two children​ ​were​ ​born,​ ​Devin​ ​Lee​ ​and​ ​6​ ​years​ ​later​ ​to​ ​the​ ​day,​ ​Alesha​ ​Ann.​ ​They​ ​made​ ​their​ ​family​ ​home​ ​in​ ​the Denver, Iowa community.

​ Linda​ ​and​ ​Don​ ​moved​ ​to​ ​New​ ​Ulm,​ ​Minn.,​ ​in​ ​1994​ ​enjoying​ ​nearly​ ​15​ ​years​ ​in​ ​the community.​ ​​They​ ​retired​ ​in​ ​2008​ ​and​ ​moved​ ​back​ ​to​ ​West​ ​Union,​ ​IA​ ​to​ ​be​ ​near​ ​family.  

Wherever​ ​she​ ​lived,​ ​Linda​ ​was​ ​always​ ​active​ ​with​ ​her​ ​church​ ​as​ ​a​ ​liturgist​ ​and​ ​in​ ​other​ ​ministries​ ​including​ ​the United​ ​Methodist​ ​Women,​ Emmaus Community, and mission trip ​to​ ​the​ ​Appalachians.​ Her cinnamon twists were ​always​ ​a​ ​favorite​ ​at​ ​fellowship.​ ​​ 

Recently​ ​she​ ​volunteered​ ​at​ ​the​ ​Fayette​ ​Historical​ ​Society,​ ​American Legion​ ​Auxiliary,​ ​the​ ​election​ ​board​ ​and​ ​many​ ​other​ ​community​ ​organizations.​ No​ ​matter​ ​how​ ​busy​ ​her schedule,​ ​she​ ​always​ ​found​ ​the​ ​time​ ​and​ ​energy​ ​to​ ​help​ ​others.​ ​​ 

Linda​ ​also​ ​enjoyed​ ​reading,​ ​gardening, traveling,​ ​finding​ ​bargains,​ ​and​ ​throwing​ ​garage​ ​sales.​ ​​ ​

She​ ​will​ ​be​ ​greatly​ ​missed​ ​by​ ​all​ ​who​ ​knew​ ​her. 

Linda’s​ ​pride​ ​and​ ​joy​ ​was​ ​watching​ ​her​ ​children​ ​grow​ ​and​ ​start​ ​families​ ​of​ ​their​ ​own.​ ​She​ ​was​ ​always​ ​excited​ ​to attend​ ​her​ ​grandchildren’s​ ​events​ ​and​ ​activities.​ ​​Linda​ ​always​ ​supported​ ​them​ ​and​ ​beamed​ ​with​ ​pride​ ​for every​ ​challenge​ ​tackled​ ​and​ ​achievement​ ​accomplished.​ ​​All​ ​the​ ​grandchildren​ ​are​ ​held​ ​close​ ​in​ ​her​ ​heart. 

Preceding​ ​Linda​ ​in​ ​death​ ​​were ​her​ ​parents,​ ​Lester​ ​and​ ​Lois​ ​Luchsinger,​ ​and​ ​both​ ​sets​ ​of​ ​grandparents. 

She​ ​is​ ​survived​ ​by​ ​her​ ​husband​ ​of​ ​51​ ​years,​ ​Donald;​ ​son​ ​Devin​ ​(Laura)​ ​Bright​ ​of​ ​Fox​ ​River​ ​Grove,​ ​Ill.;​ ​daughter Alesha​ ​(Gregory)​ ​Wettleson​ ​of​ ​Gunder,​ ​Iowa;​ ​grandchildren ​Lindsay,​ ​Abigail​ ​and​ ​Jared​ ​Bright,​ ​Mariah,​ ​Jodie​ ​and Ryan​ ​Wettleson​ ​and​ ​Steven​ ​Kress;​ ​brother ​Leslie​ ​”Scott”​ ​(Carolyn)​ ​Luchsinger of​ ​Fayette,​ ​Iowa;​ ​sister,​ ​Lolita Luchsinger, of ​Mason​ ​City,​ ​Iowa ​and​ ​many​ ​other​ ​family​ ​and​ ​friends. 

Funeral Services were held at 10 am Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017 at United Methodist Church, West Union, Iowa with Rev. Chris Ebbers as the Officiant.

Burial followed at Elgin Cemetery, Elgin, Iowa.

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa helped the family with arrangements.         50u50

Marian Harford

Marian Harford, 62, of West Union died Monday, Dec. 11, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, at United Methodist Church, West Union.

Burial will be at a later date.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today (Wednesday, Dec. 13) at United Methodist Church, West Union, and for one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

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

A complete obituary will appear in next week’s paper.

Bruce Crandall

Bruce J. Crandall, 83, entered heaven’s gate on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. He passed peacefully surrounded by family.  

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, at United Methodist Church in West Union, Iowa. 

Burial with military rites will follow at West Union Cemetery, West Union, Iowa. 

  Visitation will be held Friday, Dec. 15, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at United Methodist Church, West Union, Iowa, and for one hour before services at the church on Saturday.  

Bruce was born on Oct. 4, 1934, at home in Fayette, Iowa, to Grace (Swale) and Theodore Crandall. He was the middle child of seven children.

Bruce graduated from West Union High School in 1953. He enjoyed playing football and basketball during high school.  

Following high school, he was employed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington, D.C., for a year.  He began his college career at Upper Iowa University, transferring to Iowa State Teachers College in 1956.

Bruce served in the Army and was stationed in Okinawa in 1958-1959.  

He was a proud graduate of the University of Iowa, where he received a business degree (accounting) in 1961. In 1972, he earned a degree from the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin.  

Bruce’s banking career began at Merchants National Bank in Cedar Rapids in 1962. He joined First National Bank in West Union in 1964. He became president of FNB in West Union in 1985 and retired after 40 years at the bank in 2004.

Bruce believed in hard work. During high school he mixed cement, set pins at the bowling alley, had a paper route and delivered milk.  In college, he worked on the third shift as a drill press operator at John Deere in order to pay for school. He was living proof that those who are willing to work can be successful.

On Aug. 17, 1957, Bruce married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Marjorie Ann (Foote). They were married for 60 years. They had four children: Jill, John, Jane and Jack.  

Bruce’s greatest love was his family. He was the perfect husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother, uncle and friend.  He loved spending time with his family – especially the traditional trip to Potato Lake (and later Eagle Lake) each year. Bruce also enjoyed golf, spending winters in Orange Beach, Disney World, and watching Iowa Hawkeye football and basketball.  

Bruce also had a huge heart for his country and his community. He proudly flew the nation’s flag in front of his house and often wore an Uncle Sam suit each July 4^th in order to honor his country.  

Bruce served his community in many organizations, often taking leadership positions. He served as the City Treasurer for 14 years. He was the president of the West Union Country Club, a member on the North Fayette school board, a West Union Ambassador, a Lion, a Jaycee, a Mason, a Shriner, and a West Union Boy Scout leader. He was also a member of the West Union Industrial Development Corporation, which was instrumental in bringing in new business and jobs to West Union.  

He was a member of United Methodist Church and served as its treasurer for many years. In 1975 he organized a fund drive to build a new Methodist Church after the old church was destroyed by fire. 

Bruce received the Friend of Education Award for his work with Dollars for Scholars in 1988, and it was one of his most treasured honors.  

Bruce had great vision and he wanted West Union to be an attractive place for young families to raise their children. He established an annual Kids’ Fishing Derby at Volga Lake in 1984. 

However, his proudest accomplishment was the West Union Recreation Complex. Though many thought his idea for the park was insurmountable, he pressed forward. He negotiated to purchase the 40 acres that house the park in 1999. Today, the park is home to soccer fields, baseball fields, basketball courts, a walking trail, fishing lake, playgrounds and shelters where families can meet and enjoy one another.  From his back deck or from his golf cart, Bruce loved to watch children and adults playing at the park. 

In 2000, Bruce was named as West Union’s Citizen of the Year for his vision of West Union in the new millennium.  

Bruce’s loving family includes his wife, Marge; children: Jill (Art) Cox of Columbia, Mo., John (Sue) of Apple Valley, Minn., Jane (Tim) Zuck of Appleton, Wis., and Jack (Amy) of De Pere, Wis. He had 12 grandchildren: Jordan (Ashley) Cox, Taylor and Carter Cox, Shaelee Crandall, Kate, Bennett, and Wilson Zuck, Jessie, Jennie, Josie, Michael and Max Crandall. He had four great-grandchildren: Carson, Blake, Lucas and Wilson Cox.  

He is also survived by brothers Larry (Dianne) and Dean (Norma) Crandall, sister Carolyn Russell, sisters-in-law Sue Crandall, Florence Crandall, and Donna Crandall, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Bruce in death were his parents, Grace and Theo Crandall; parents-in-law, Maxine and S.M. (Bud) Foote; brothers Eldon, Ron, and Dan Crandall; sister-in-law Marilyn Darnall; and brothers-in-law Max Darnall and Robert Russell.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial gifts in Bruce’s honor to the West Union Recreation Foundation (P.O. Box 363, West Union, IA 52175) or United Methodist Church.  

Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, West Union, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements. 50u50

Stephen Sanford

A graveside service for Stephen Sanford, 58, of West Union was held Monday, Dec. 4, at St. Luke Catholic Cemetery in St. Lucas.

His death occurred Friday, Dec. 1, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union.

Schluter-Balik Funeral Home in Decorah assisted the family with arrangements. 

Stephen Timothy Sanford was born Aug. 7, 1959, in Elmhurst, Ill.

Survivors include his mother, Carol Sanford Brand of Eldorado; his daughter, Nicole “Niki” (Robert) Kelly of Parish, Fla.; his grandson, Robbie Kelly; his aunt, Patricia Kennedy of St. Lucas; and cousins Russell Kennedy of Colorado and Laura Fredricksen of Illinois.

Stephen was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Sanford; and a grandson, Andrew Kelly.         50u50

Robert Boleyn

Robert Leo Boleyn, 87, of Elgin, Iowa passed away on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017 at his home in Elgin, Iowa. 

Robert was born Oct. 31, 1930 to Leo and Frieda (Miller) Boleyn in Elgin, Iowa. 

He attended Elgin School through the ninth grade.

Bob was united in marriage with Rosella Craig on April 17, 1949 at First Baptist Church in Elgin, Iowa. He was a lifelong resident of Elgin, Iowa. 

Bob worked various local jobs before being employed by Rock Island Rail Road, working there from 1960 to 1980. He did maintenance for Good Samaritan Society for 17 years and also was a substitute bus driver for Valley Schools. 

Bob enjoyed fishing and hunting and shared much of his catch with friends and neighbors. Most notable were the fish fries at the Good Sam, which were supplied, fried and served by Bob, Rosella and Bob’s brother, David. 

He continued his giving spirit by donating his body to the University of Iowa.

Bob is survived by his wife of 68 years, Rosella of Elgin, Iowa; his children, Cindy Buckendahl of Aurelia, Iowa, Craig (Vicky) Boleyn of Oelwein, Iowa, Cary (Cathy) Boleyn of Elgin, Iowa and Shelli Boleyn of West Union, Iowa; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; siblings, Roger (Gretchen) Boleyn of Elgin, Iowa, David (Kay) Boleyn of Elgin, Iowa and Barbara (Tom) Meis of Florence Gardens, Arizona.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Freida Boleyn; brothers, Dennis and Raymond Boleyn; and one sister, Marilyn Hildebrand.

  Funeral Services were held at 11 am on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017 at First Baptist Church, Elgin, Iowa with Rev. Lee Boleyn as the officiant.

In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity or church.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home in Elgin, Iowa helped the family with arrangements.     50u50

Robert Dietz

Robert H. Dietz, 104, of Wadena, Iowa died Monday morning, December 4, 2017 at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette, Iowa.

Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Friday, December 8, 2017 at the Lima Church in rural Fayette with Pastor Philip Rownd officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Arlington, Iowa and for one hour before the service at the church on Friday.

Interment: Lima Cemetery, rural Fayette.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Robert Harry Dietz was born March 22, 1913 in Buchanan County, Iowa, the son of Harry and Abbedell Dietz, the second of seven children.  On May 15, 1939, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Susanna Taylor at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.  To this union three children were born: Guy, Robert, and Max.  He served with the United States Army Corps of Engineers in the Aleutian Islands during World War II.  Robert started farming in 1946 and in 1959 they moved to Wadena where he farmed until he moved to Maple Crest Manor in Fayette.  He raised registered Quarter Horses and registered Holstein Cattle and was employed for many years with American Breeders Services of Madison, Wisconsin.           

Robert is survived by his 3 sons: Guy Dietz, Robert W. Dietz and Max (Amber) Dietz; 4 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Elizabeth on September 25, 2002; daughter-in-law: Susan Dietz; and 6 brothers and sisters.

Tanner Walker

Tanner Patrick Walker, 21, of Luana, Iowa formerly Postville, Iowa of  died December 4, 2017 at Floyd County Medical Center, Charles City, Iowa. Tanner was born August 11, 1996 to Patrick and Denise (Bugenhagen) Walker at Mayo Health in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Postville, Iowa.

Tanner graduated from Postville High School in 2014 and attended Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon, Iowa where he was enrolled in the lineman program.  After lineman school, Tanner worked for North Central Line Setters in Alta, Iowa. He was currently at Missouri Valley Apprenticeship, working for MJ Electric since June of 2017. He loved life and enjoyed fishing with his dad and friends. He also enjoyed bow and shotgun hunting, every year he looked forward to deer camp in Hardin with the guys.  Anything that involved being outdoors brought great joy into his life. Tanner was a dedicated Vikings fan and loved watching any type of sports. Tanner especially loved being with family, his girlfriend of 2 years, friends and his dog Harley.

Tanner is survived by his parents, Patrick and Denise Walker of Postville, Iowa; one sister, Brandi (Bill) Van Gorp of Waukon, Iowa; the love of his life, Gretchen Hanson of Luana, Iowa and their dog Harley; two nieces, Hayden and Stella Van Gorp; one nephew, Jackson Van Gorp; his maternal grandfather, Don Bugenhagen of Luana, Iowa;  and maternal grandmother, Linda Bugenhagen of Postville, Iowa; aunts and uncles, Pam (Doug) Auchstetter of Rockford, Iowa, Russ (Rose) Walker of Mason City, Iowa; Kathy Cook of Charles City, Iowa;  Gail (Darwin) De Vries of Charles City, Iowa; Denise Leuchtenmacher of Postville, Iowa; Mark (Sabrina) Walker of Postville, Iowa; Josephine (Ethan) Bredlow of Clear Lake, Iowa; Craig Bugenhagen of Luana, Iowa; Kyle Bugenhagen (Rachel Housker) of Luana, IA; and many cousins.

Tanner was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Clyde Walker of Charles City and Grace “Sue” Walker of Postville; and one uncle, Kevin Bugenhagen.

Visitation was held Saturday, December 9, 2017 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville, Iowa.

Funeral Services were at 1:00 pm at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville, Iowa with Rev. Lynn Noel as the Officiant.

Burial followed at Postville Cemetery, Postville, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers memorials in Tanners name may be made to the Postville Dollars for Scholars.

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

Marilyn Schott

Marilyn Schott, 82, of Clermont, Iowa died Friday, Dec. 8, 2017 at her home in Clermont, Iowa. 

Marilyn Jean Wedo was born May 25, 1935 in rural Castalia, Iowa to William "Bill" and Julia (Kobriger) Wedo. 

She was baptized July 12, 1937 at Church of the United Bretheren in Christ at Castalia, Iowa. 

Marilyn played basketball in high school and graduated from Clermont High School in 1953. 

Marilyn was united in marriage with Arthur Dean Schott, son of Fred and Ruth (Entwisle) Schott of Clermont, Iowa on Jan. 24, 1954 at West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont by Rev. S.B. Knutsen. To this union 10 children were born. 

She was a "stay at home" Mom, until she began working at Larrabee Elementary School as a dishwasher  and enjoyed washing dishes at Valhalla Supper Club after she lost her husband. 

Marilyn was a collector of family information all her married life, that interest was passed on to some of her daughters. Her daughters and granddaughters got her interested in scrap-booking and she thoroughly enjoyed it. 

She was a Chicago Cubs baseball fan and was beyond excited to see them win the World Series and was also an avid Iowa Hawkeyes & Chicago Bulls basketball fan. Marilyn enjoyed going to the stock car races in West Union and Decorah to cheer for whatever family member might be racing.  

She always had a crossword puzzle or Fill-in book close at hand. She enjoyed going to all sport events that any of her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces or nephews might be in. Her other winter past-time was making quilts, that she gave to her family. 

Marilyn was also a big fan of family reunion picnics in the summer. All the family is going to miss having her famous "Ice Cream Dessert"& "Pink Stuff"!! 

Marilyn is survived by her 10 children, Margaret “Peg” (Kenneth) Lerch of West Union, Robert (Rhonda Dales) Schott of Clermont, Daniel (Mary) Schott of Elgin, Mary (Michael) Heller of Clermont, David (Paula) Schott of Clermont, Thomas (Rachel Tauni) Schott of Marshall, Minn., Julia (Chuck) Ensley of Marion, Ruth (Jeffory) Fels of West Union, Cathryn (David) Knutson of New Hampton and William "Pud" (Misty Hughes) Schott of Postville: 18 grandchildren, Nathan (Sarah) Lerch, Mitchell and Jodi Schott, Lisa (Matt) Ellis, Nicole (Nathan) Judnic, Joshua (Amber) Heller, Katrina (Chris Jones) Klusman and Arthur (Desiree Kregel) Schott, Travis Schott, Elizabeth (Andy) Uhlenhopp, Justina (Brandon) Culbert, Corey Pavlovec and Tonya (Kevin) Clark, Jordan, Jacob and Jasmin Ollendick, Colten (Morgan Ihde) Schott and Hayden Schott; 18 great-grandchildren, Dylan, Nolan and Kaylee Lerch, Taylor and Braeden Ellis, Isabella, Rylan and Hudson Judnic, Jake and Jaylynn Heller, Ashlynn and Cortlen Klusman, Alexander and Bradly Uhlenhopp, Ashley and Amber Clark, Braxton Smith and Ryder Schott; several step-grandkids; a special friend, Amy Rutherford; her two sisters, Irene Mitts and Elsie (Burdette) Sebastian and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Art on Nov. 3, 1985; her parents, Bill and Julia Wedo; brother, Wilbur, in infancy; sister, Eileen (Lyle) Olson; parents-in-law, Fred and Ruth (Entwisle) Schott; brother-in-law, Dean Mitts; nephews, William Mitts, Terry Schott, Michael Schott, Dennis Schott, John Schott; great niece, Jacqueline Schott; and great-grandson Daniel Clark.

  Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017 at Schutte-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Ginny Olson as the Officiant.

Burial followed at God’s Acres, Clermont, Iowa.

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

In lieu of flowers memorial should be made to Stoney Brook Village in West Union, Iowa.

Pallbearers were Randy Schott, Jim Schott, Tim Olson, Troy Schott, Mark Schott and Kenny Schott.

Honorary Pallbearers were Grandkids and Charlie Schott.     51u51

Marian Harford

Marian Adelle (Dennis) Harford, 62, of West Union, Iowa passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 11, 2017, at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union, Iowa. 

Marian Adelle was born Feb. 28, 1955, at Palmer Memorial Hospital in West Union, Iowa to Frederick and Selma (Odegard) Dennis. 

She was bestowed the given names of her aunt, Marian Adele (Dennis) Schatz of West Union and her grandmother, Adel Elizabeth (Whitley) Dennis, two notable women in her family tree. These women would have been very proud of the faithful life their namesake led and the giving, caring nature that Marian exhibited toward everyone had they lived to see her raise a family and develop into the kind, considerate person she would become.

Marian valued and appreciated the rights and needs of others and always put everyone’s wishes ahead of her own. She had a giving nature and a willingness to assist others in their time of need, to just offer a helping hand for no reason at all, or just to be a good neighbor. She was always ready to give someone a hug and tell him or her, "I love you.”

Marian was baptized at First Methodist Church in Fayette, Iowa on April 3, 1955. 

She attended elementary, junior high and high school in Fayette, graduating in 1973. 

Marian was united in marriage to Raymond Howard Harford on June 8, 1974 at United Methodist Church in Fayette. To this union were born three children, Jennifer, Justin and Julie. Marian and Ray raised their children with love and taught them to be honest, self-reliant, caring and respectful.

Marian held several jobs during her working career, primarily at Schwan’s Food Company, in child care and for North Fayette Schools for 23 years, where she was employed as a cook. Marian loved working in the NF elementary and high school cafeterias, where she could be around her beloved "kids.” She enjoyed visiting with all the students, praising them for their good behavior and counseling them when they were misbehaving. 

After Marian's daughter was seriously injured when she was hit by a vehicle at the busy intersection near the school, Marian volunteered as a road crossing guard to make sure that no other child would ever suffer the same fate if she could prevent it. Marian faithfully served as a school crossing guard for over 10 years until her health would no longer permit her to carry out her duties. No matter what the weather was like, Marian would be vigilantly standing guard, watching over her kids and making sure that vehicle drivers did not fail to obey the traffic lights.

Marian enjoyed picking strawberries at Rawson's Berry Farm, and while most people would not consider this task enjoyable, Marian found this pastime gave her pleasure and contentment to her mind and senses. She also enjoyed mowing lawns and moving snow at her home or pitching in to lend a helping hand to her neighbors.

Marian was given the spiritual gift of serving others. She prided herself on volunteering to promote goodness and to improve the quality of life for individuals or groups in her community. She was presented several awards with gratitude and appreciation for her efforts, although she did not expect, want or seek any personal recognition. Awards that meant a great deal to Marian were presented to her from her church, North Fayette Schools Education Association and the City of West Union for her altruistic activities and her lifelong commitment of devoting her services to the community.

The greatest recognition and reward that awaits Marian is from her Heavenly Father for being a family caregiver. Marian worked tirelessly and unselfishly taking care of her parents while both of them endured serious health and aging issues. Marian cared deeply for her parents and spent many hours every week visiting with them, seeing to their needs from washing clothes, cleaning their home, grocery shopping, mowing their lawn and countless other tasks in making sure they were well and affectionately cared for. 

Marian's compassionate concern for her own family and for the well-being of others is a tribute to her kind heart and is a lasting example for her children and every person to follow. 

Marian will be greatly missed by her family and the many friends she had. She will also be fondly remembered by the large number of current and former students she developed a close relationship with. Marian was an extraordinary person, absolutely one of a kind. She was a wonderful example to others of how every person should be treated, respected and loved. 

Marian is survived by her husband, Raymond; her three children, Jennifer Witte of Waterloo, Iowa, Justin Harford of Cedar Falls, Iowa and Julie Harford of West Union, Iowa; brother David (Christie) Dennis of Fayette, Iowa; brother, Richard Dennis of Marshall, Va.; sister, Anna Dennis of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; in addition to a granddaughter, Caitlin Witte; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Marian was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Linda (Gaylord) Caldwell. 

  Funeral services were held Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017 at United Methodist Church, West Union, Iowa with Rev. Chris Ebbers as the officiant.

Burial will be at a later date.

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

Condolences may be sent to the family at: Ray Harford, 108 South Oak Street, West Union, IA 52175 or emailed to: rayharford@hotmail.com.

    51u51  

Gary Lee Larson

Gary “Skinny” Lee Larson, 65, of West Union, formerly of Elkader, passed away unexpectedly following complications from surgery on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017, at Mercy Medical Hospital in Dubuque.

Gary, the son of Henry and Margie (Schuety) Larson, was born Nov. 24, 1952, in McGregor.  

On June 29, 1990, Gary was united in marriage to Lynn (Hjelmeng) Gamm and became the step-father of Lynn's four children, Blake, Scott, Erich and Jessica.

Growing up on a farm, Gary knew the value of hard work and put his incredible work ethic to use in various construction companies throughout his life. Gary worked for Palas Fencing and spent the last 25 years with CGB/Pattison in Clayton.  

When Gary wasn't hard at work he loved spending time in the garden with Lynn and traveling to Florida and Laughlin, NV, with friends.  Gary's favorite three things in life were having their grandchildren stay overnight, the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Bears.  Gary loved cheering for his teams with his Gene's Place friends and tail-gating for the big game. Gary was proud of his children and grandchildren and loved telling stories about them.

Gary is survived by his wife Lynn of 27 years; children Blake (Heather) Gamm, Scott Gamm, Erich (Christal) Gamm all of West Union and daughter Jessica (Matt) Schmidt of Waukon; grandchildren Brynn, Ben and Trent Gamm; brothers Jerald (Emma) Larson of Elkader, Darrell (Kris) Larson of Viroqua; sister Cathy Sullivan of Cedar Rapids; sister-in-law Kay Meylor of Cherokee; brother-in-law Denny (Maren) Hjelmeng of Omaha; two uncles and several nephews, nieces, great-nephews and nieces.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Margie Larson; parents-in-law Swede and Lois Hjelmeng; brother-in-law Jamie Meylor, several uncles, aunts and cousins.

Memorial Services: 11 am - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017, at Peace United Church of Christ, Elkader.

Inurnment:  Will be held at a later date.  

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Elkader is assisting the family.     51u51

Blaine Lyle

Blaine A. Lyle, 87, of West Union died peacefully, surrounded by family, on Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wis.

The family welcomes mourners to his memorial on Tuesday, Dec. 26, at 10 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11 a.m. at Wadena Community Church, 301 S Mill St., Wadena.

Blaine Austin Lyle was born Nov. 20, 1930, to Benjamin and Grace Lyle in Ulysses, Kan. As a child his family moved many times, finally settling in Kittitas, Wash. 

In high school, he excelled in basketball, baseball, football, and track. He graduated from Kittitas High School in 1948.

In 1950, Blaine enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for four years during the Korean Conflict. As part of his tour of duty, he was stationed in Labrador as a radar technician.

After his service in the Air Force, Blaine entered engineering school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. 

While attending the university, he met his future wife, Connie. They married on Oct. 26, 1956.

Blaine began working in construction in Jackson, Mich., where he oversaw the construction of Jackson Community College (JCC), eventually becoming the campus facilities manager. He became vice president of Finance and Facilities in 1980. After 17 years at JCC, he moved to Wyoming, where he served as Director of Facilities at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne until his retirement in 1991.

Blaine always enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Blaine was lovingly referred to as “Dado” by his grandchildren.

When asked what his greatest accomplishment was, Blaine always responded, “Being blessed with such a wonderful family.”

Blaine and his wife, Connie, recently celebrated 61 years of loving marriage on Oct. 26, 2017.

He is survived by his wife, Connie, of West Union; four children, Kim (Mark) Boyack of Mesa, Colo.; Kevin (Julia) Lyle and grandson Hunter of Williamston, Mich.; Colleen (Brian) Bucks and grandchildren Alison, Ezekiel, and Abigail of Mitchell, Neb.; and Kathleen (Jim) Davis of West Union, grandson Ben (Betty) Davis and great-grandchildren Ellie and Raylan of Clermont, Iowa, and grandson Braeden (fiancée Julie) Davis of Indianapolis, Ind.

Blaine has three surviving siblings, Benita Helseth of Everett, Wash., Duane (Shirley) Lyle of Madison, Ind., and Boyd (Pam) Lyle of Bend, Ore.

Contributions in his memory may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org) or The Nature Conservancy (nature.org).  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you plant a tree in Blaine’s memory.    51u51

Norman Kleinlein

Norman C. Kleinlein, 85, of Arlington, Iowa, died on Friday morning, December 15, 2017 at his home with his family at his side.

Funeral Service:  10:30 A.M. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at St. John Lutheran Church, Arlington with Pastor Clark Baldwin officiating.

Visitation:  3:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Monday and for one hour before the service on Tuesday at the St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington.

Interment:  Cass Township Cemetery, Strawberry Point, Iowa.

A Memorial Fund has been established for St. John Lutheran Church.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com

Norman Carl Kleinlein was born on March 6, 1932 in Clayton County, Iowa, the son of Carl George & Mildred (Bowers) Kleinlein.  He received his education at the Kleinlein Country School.  Norman was united in marriage to Shirley Fern Popenhagen on August 30, 1953 in West Union, Iowa.  Norm worked as a mechanic at James Implement and S & K Machine Shop.  He owned and operated Norm’s Repair and was a school bus driver for Starmont Schools.

Norm was a member of St. John Lutheran Church.  He had previously been a member of the Strawberry Point Jaycees and the Strawberry Point Fire Department for 12 ½ years.  He enjoyed woodworking, cutting and splitting firewood, riding horses with the Volga River Riders, riding motorcycles, snowmobiling, camping and attending bluegrass music festivals.

Norm is survived by his Wife: Shirley Kleinlein of Arlington;

4 Children:  Sheryl (Mark) Fedeler of Fayette, Ivan (Debbie) Kleinlein of Strawberry Point,

Don (Shelly) Kleinlein of Strawberry Point and Diane (Mark) Parker of Lamont;

16 Grandchildren & 25 Great Grandchildren.

Norm was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents:  Archibald “Winnie” & Rozenna Bowers and Anna Kleinlein.

Carol Anderson

Carol Sue Anderson, 82, of Castalia, Iowa died Thursday, December 14, 2017 at Guttenberg Care Center, Guttenberg, Iowa. Carol Sue was born on February 26, 1935 to George and Bernice (Chase) Nickels in Grass Creek, Indiana. She graduated from Elgin High School in 1952.

Carol was united in marriage with Jerry Anderson on August 2, 1959 in Elgin, Iowa, five children were born to this union. She was a farm wife and enjoyed raising the children. She spent time reading, doing puzzles, tending to her flowers and garden, canning and baking.

Carol is survived by her five children, Stacey (Joseph) Thomas of Juneau, Alaska, Lori (Jim Engen) Kuehl of Giard, Iowa, Scott Anderson of Ossian, Iowa, Lisa Anderson of Ossian, Iowa and JaDene (Hugh) Wegner of Ossian, Iowa; ten grandchildren, Matthew, Jonathon and Courtney Wendel, Sarah Mormann, Jacob and Joshua Kuehl, Sheila Anderson, Deidree Acord and Ryan and Kyle Wegner; several great-grandchildren; and one brother, Robert Nickels of Grand Junction, Colorado.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Anderson on March 28, 2005; her parents, George and Bernice Nickels; two grandsons, Shawn Anderson and Jacob Wegner; siblings, Owen Nickels, Merlin Nickels, Gerald Lee Nickels, Gayle Olson, Lois Jane and Evertt Nickels in childhood.

Visitation was held from 4-8 pm on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at Ossian Lutheran Church, Ossian, Iowa. There was also  a one hour visitation before services at the church on Wednesday.

Funeral Services were held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Ossian Lutheran Church, Ossian, Iowa with Rev. David Lenth as the Officiant.

Burial will follow at Bloomfield Cemetery, Castalia, Iowa.

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

Rev. Dale Rausch

Rev. Dale Rausch, 75, of West Union, Iowa, died on Tuesday morning, Dec. 19, 2017 at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wis.

Mass of Christian Burial:  11 A.M. Friday, Dec. 22, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Oelwein, with Primary Celebrant Archbishop Michael Jackels, Concelebrant Pastor Ray Atwood, Deacon Jim Patera and the priests of the Archdiocese of Dubuque celebrating the funeral mass.

Interment:  Woodlawn Cemetery, Oelwein, Iowa.

Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein, assisted the family with arrangements.

A Memorial Fund has been established.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Dale Joseph Rausch was born on April 30, 1942 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Clarence John “C.J.” and Florine Magdaline (Decker) Rausch.  

He attended Holy Ghost Grade School, Dubuque, and then his family moved to the Maynard/Arlington area where he graduated from Sacred Heart High School, Oelwein in 1960.  

Dale attended Loras College and Mt. St. Bernard Seminary. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 1, 1968, at the Cathedral of St. Raphael by Archbishop James Byrne.

Fr. Dale served the following parishes in his 49 years of priesthood:  Immaculate Conception Parish, Cedar Rapids; St. Joseph Parish, and on the faculty of St. Joseph High School, Farley; Sacred Heart Parish, Manly; Assumption Parish and the faculty of Notre Dame High School, Cresco; Blessed Sacrament Parish, Sacred Heart Parish, and Columbus High School, Waterloo; All Saints Parish, Cedar Rapids; St. Mary Parish, Corwith, and St. Wenceslaus Parish, Duncan; Holy Name Parish, Rockford; Holy Name Parish, West Union, St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Fayette, St. Peter Parish, Clermont; and Immaculate Conception Parish, Sumner. His final assignment was as the sacramental priest for the St. Joseph the Worker Cluster.

Fr. Dale is survived by his Sister:  Mary Lynn Rohlman of Naperville, Illinois; Brother: Alan F. (Kathy) Rausch of Fayette; Niece: Randi Rohlman of California; Nephew:  Ross Rohlman of Indiana; Nephew: Ryan (Alexis) Rausch of Fairbank; Great Niece:  Madilynn Rausch; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Clarence in 1989 and Florine in 1977; and a brother-in-law: Francis Rohlman.     52u52

Meredith Granger

Meredith LeWayne Granger, 59, of Indianapolis, Ind., passed away Dec. 17, 2017.  

He was born Dec. 18, 1957, in West Union to the late Wayne and L. Darlene (Wolfe) Granger.  

Meredith was a 1976 graduate of North High School in West Union, and he received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa.  

Meredith married Toni J. Morris in 1994.

He was a radio producer and announcer for the Fine Arts Society from 1991 until 2015.  

He was a member of All Souls Unitarian Church, American Mensa and The Illustrious Clients.  

Meredith enjoyed singing in his church choir; he was a professional caroler during the holiday season.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 1, 2018. at All Souls Unitarian Church, 5805 E. 56^th St., Indianapolis, with visitation to follow.

Meredith will be inurned in the church’s Memory Garden.

Meredith is survived by his wife, Toni J. Morris; a stepdaughter, Margaret (Chad) Parson; his sister, Janelyn (Virgil) Papstein; nieces Stephanie (Noah) Griffin and Jacquelyn Papstein; and great-nephew Bain Parker.  

Memorial contributions may be made to All Souls Unitarian Church at the address above.  

Final care and arrangements are entrusted to Shirley Brothers Washington Memorial Chapel in Indianapolis; www.shirleybrothers.com.

Condolences to the family may be mailed in care of Shirley Brothers Mortuaries & Crematory, 9606 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46229.          52u52

James Farmer

James “Jim” Ormus Farmer, 90, of Gunder, Iowa died Saturday, December 23, 2017 at his home. James Ormus was born June 18, 1927 to Lee and Ruby (Trudo) Farmer in Clermont, Iowa. He attended Grand Meadow Country School near Clermont through the ninth grade and attended one year of high school in Postville.

Jim was united in marriage with Marie Bollman on June 16, 1952 at Monona Methodist Church, Monona, Iowa. To this union three children were born. He was a hard working dairy farmer his entire life and would do anything for anybody. After retiring from dairy farming, he mowed five lawns and pushed snow until recently. Jim was a member of Farm Bureau and Marion Lutheran Church. Jim and Marie belonged to several card clubs and the Elgin Dance Club. They loved playing Euchre, going to Guttenberg to dance to country music and their many trips to the casinos, they especially enjoyed country music with fiddles and steel guitars. Jim also enjoyed working on the farm, going to Johnson’s for supper and Amish suppers. 

Jim is survived by his three children, Craig (Marsha) Farmer of Arnold, Missouri, Audrey Farmer of Waterloo, Iowa and Dave (Margaret Carroll) Farmer of Postville, Iowa; two grandchildren, Jared (Brittany) Farmer and Laura Farmer; two great-grandchildren, Lucas and Elliot Farmer; in-laws, Lillian (Ron) Kidman, Jane (Don) Kregel, Karen (Philip) Holvenstot, Robert (Maxine) Bollman, Lorretta Bollman and Joann Bollman; niece, Phyllis Glawe and Deb (Dale) Mohs; nephew, Kevin (Wendy) Peterson; special friend, Vivian Peterson; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Marie on October 31, 2012; parents, Lee and Ruby Farmer; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Phelman Peterson; brothers-in-law, Leroy (Fran) Bollman, Raymond Bollman and Fredrick Bollman; special nephew, Roger Glawe; and friend, Dyrl Porterfield. 

The family would like to thank the many fabulous caregivers that came in and helped him. the last five months.

  Funeral Services were held  at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at Marion Lutheran Church, Gunder, Iowa with Rev. Marshall Hahn as the Officiant. There was a two hour visitation from 12:30 – 2:30 pm before services at the church on Wednesday.

Burial followed at Postville Cemetery, Postville, Iowa.

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