Virgil Reckward

Virgil Reckward, 88, of Castalia died Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014, at Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian.

Memorial services were held Thursday, Jan. 23, at Ossian Lutheran Church with the Rev. Dave Lenth as the officiant.

Inurnment followed in Pleasant View Cemetery in Castalia.

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Ossian, assisted the family with the arrangements.

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

Virgil Delbert Reckward was born May 16, 1925 to Herman and Mabel (Harvey) Reckward in rural Castalia. He attended country school through the eighth grade and the Castalia High School.

He was united in marriage with Esther Holm on Aug. 28, 1943, in Elkader and to this union five children were born. Virgil farmed his entire life with his family. He was a member of the Castalia United Methodist Church where he served on the board and was president for many years.

Some of Virgil’s fondest memories were proposing to his wife and talking to his Grandpa Harvey. He enjoyed old time country music, such as, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash.

Virgil and Esther enjoyed dancing for many years. His hobbies include, woodworking (he made numerous pieces of furniture, shelves, frames and wooden toys for his family) he also enjoyed repairing furniture, jigsaw puzzles, word puzzles, word search, reading and flowers. Virgil was known as “Mr. Fix-it” and was ready to lend a helping hand or give advice on how to fix something. He milked cows into his 70’s and kept up his large lawn and flower garden for many years.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jim Reckwar, a granddaughter, Amy Monroe, and his parents.

Virgil is survived by his wife of seventy years, Esther of Castalia; his children, Pat (Jerry) Monroe of Castalia, Jerry (Julie) Reckward of Castalia, Sue (Dale) Lenth of Castalia and Gin (Roger) Sanford of Decorah; a daughter-in-law, Judy Reckward of Decorah; twelve grandchildren, Chad Reckward, Brad (Jennifer) Reckward, Dennis (Mandy) Reckward, Darin Reckward, Julie (Matt) Metille, Summer (Chris) Wiedow; Richard (Lisa) Reckward, Jeannie (Steve) Daughton, April (Ty) Hamilton, Joe (Augusta) Lenth, Nichole (fiancé, Nate Jevne) and Danielle Aldredge; twenty great-grandchildren, Hayden, Macy, Ani, Olivia, Britann, Blake, Makinzie, Parker, Luke, Dalton, Kolton, Jessica, Sam, Jordan, Kourtney, Hope (Jason), Dakota, Stella, Brooke and Gabriella and three great-great grandchildren, Colton, Hunter and Landin.

Patricia Bea (Stenzel) Schwamman

Patricia Bea (Stenzel) Schwamman, 53, of Castle Rock, Colo., passed away peacefully Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014, at home surrounded by family.

Patricia was born Feb. 9, 1960, to Alfred and Caroline Stenzel in Blue Earth, Minn. She grew up in Buffalo Center, Iowa, on her family’s farm. She graduated from Buffalo Center High School in 1978. After high school, she attended Iowa State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in consumer sciences.

Patricia married James Schwamman on July 2, 1983, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Buffalo Center, Iowa. For 29 years, she and James lived near St. Louis, Mo., where they raised their children, Thomas and Laura Schwamman.

Patricia was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ted and Bina Van Hove and Hugo and Ottilee Stenzel.

Patricia is survived by her husband, James of Castle Rock, Colo.; her son, Thomas of Aurora, Colo.; her daughter, Laura of Denver, Colo.; her parents, Alfred and Caroline of Iowa Falls, Iowa; her brother, Gary (Patricia) Stenzel of Iowa Falls, Iowa; her parents-in law, Clarence and Darlene Schwamman of St. Lucas, Iowa; her sister -in-law, Gail

(Timothy) Bradford of Waverly, Iowa; her brothers-in-law, Michael (Pia) Schwamman of Wichita, Kan. and Patrick (Barb) Schwamman of Cresco, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A visitation was held 6 p.m. with Rosary Services at 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 31, 2014, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2746 Fifth Street Castle Rock, Colo.  The Funeral Service was held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2746 Fifth Street Castle Rock, Colo. Burial followed funeral service at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Castle Rock, Colo.

Online condolences may be made at www.castlerockfuneralandcremation.com.       6u6

Clarence E. Amundson

Clarence E. Amundson, 88, of Clermont died Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014, at Good Samaritan Society – West Union.

Celebration of Life services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at East Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont.

Visitation will be held today (Wednesday) from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at East Clermont Lutheran Church, Clermont, and for one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

Inurnment will be held at a later date at East Clermont Lutheran Church Cemetery, Clermont.

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

Richard LeRoy Pritchard

Richard LeRoy Pritchard, 77, died Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014, at the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.

Funeral services were held Monday, Feb. 3, at St. John Congregational Chuch in Garber. Burial followed in the Elgin Cemetery.

Leonard Funeral Home in Elkader was charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left with www.leonardfuneralhomes.com.

The son of Walter and Margaret (Monnahan) Pritchard, he was born Nov. 11, 1936, near Elgin, the fifth of 12 children to be born into this family. He attended country school in Brainard. 

For the first few years Richard worked at Hodgemann’s Construction Company, paving roads in the twin cities area.

He united in marriage with Frances Stray, in May of 1964, at Decorah. To this union five children were born. Together they farmed over the years in Strawberry Point, Littleport, and Garber area. 

Richard will be remembered as someone who enjoyed family, farming, fishing, hunting, cutting wood and grandchildren.  Richard also enjoyed his indescribable relationship with his extensive amount of Amish friends, who became a part of his extended family.  Richard was passionate about being surrounded by family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother (Amos), one grandchild (Anthony Hutchinson) and two brother-in-laws, Charles Corbin and Karl Green Jr.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Frances; four sons, Duane (Max) of Osterdock, Kevin (Lori Caston) of Hopkinton, Craig (Tammy Bolsinger) of Garber, Larry (Jennifer) Pritchard of McGregor, and one daughter, Lynette (Jason Bittner) of Millville; 15 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; three step-great- grandchildren; seven brothers, Leslie of West Union, Lyle (Judy) of McGregor, Alfred (June) of Edgewood, Gary (Rita) of Farmersburg, Robert (Linda) of Charles City, Rodney (Patty) of Monona, and Brad (Malinda) of Greely Colorado; three sisters, Ilo Corbin of Volga, Barbara Peterson of Mederville, and Marion Van Sickle of Elgin and numerous nieces and nephews.

Thelma Schwinefus

Thelma H. Schwinefus, 91, of Ossian, Iowa passed away Monday, February 3, 2014 at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette, Iowa.  Thelma Henrietta, the daughter of Andrew and Helga (Lervold) Hilgerson, was born September 6, 1922 in rural Clermont, Iowa.  She was baptized October 1, 1922 and confirmed October 10, 1937 at Stavanger Lutheran Church, rural Ossian, Iowa.  She attended Dover School #6 and graduated from the eighth grade.  Thelma was united in marriage with Lloyd Leo Schwinefus on September 6, 1939 at the Stavanger Lutheran Church parsonage.  Thelma and Lloyd moved to the Schwinefus family farm south of Ossian, where she proudly lived for seventy-five years.  Thelma loved her morning walks to her mailbox with her cane.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Thelma’s life was spent as a fulltime housewife and Mom.  She nurtured and raised six children. Thelma leaves a long legacy of Norwegian traditions and was loved for her homemade bread and lefse.

Thelma is survived by her six children, David (Jean) Schwinefus; Beverly (Wayne) Corlett; Dennis Schwinefus; Belvina “Biny” Timmons; Judy (Marty) Fisher; and Brenda (Jerry) Massman; ten grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and one sister, Arlene Sutter.

Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd; her parents; five brothers; and four sisters.

The lord has called you home to a peaceful kingdom. Thanks for all the wonderful and caring memories, we love you Mom.

Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2014, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado, Iowa. Rev. Ginny Olson was the officiant. The family invited everyone to lunch and fellowship following services before burial.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, February 5, 2014, from 4-7 pm at the Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home, Ossian, Iowa, and one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

Interment was held at the First Lutheran Church Cemetery, Ossian, Iowa

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Homes and Cremation Services in Ossian, Iowa is assisting the family with the arrangements.

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

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Clarence Amundson

Clarence E. Amundson, 88, of Clermont died Sunday, February 2, 2014 at the Good Samaritan Center in West Union.  Clarence Edward, the son of Ole and Nina (Loftsgard) Amundson, was born July 29, 1925 in rural Clermont, Iowa.  He was baptized and confirmed at East Clermont Lutheran Church, rural Clermont. Clarence graduated from Clermont High School and graduated from lineman school training in Chicago, Illinois.  Clarence was a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  He farmed for several years east of Clermont before becoming a lineman and manager for ACE telephone.  He retired from ACE in 1987.  Clarence was united in marriage with Johanna Anderson on September 18, 1954 at a Baptist Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa.  To this union, three children were born.

Clarence was a lifelong member of East Clermont Lutheran Church. He served on the church council, was a member of the choir and Lutheran Brotherhood, and he was the church custodian for thirty years.  He was a member of the Sheehan-Olson American Legion Post #375 in Clermont. Clarence was a member of the Luren Singers in Decorah for over twenty-five years.  During his time with the Luren Singers, Clarence was able to travel to Norway three times and he was honored to shake hands with the King of Norway.

Clarence enjoyed beekeeping, raising chinchillas, flying airplanes, camping, traveling, and having coffee and spending time with friends. He also sang at many funerals and weddings in the Clermont area.

Clarence is survived by his wife, Johanna; three children, Caren (Chuck) Reaves of Missoula, Montana; Eric (Diane) Amundson of Humboldt, Iowa; and Olin (Karen) Amundson of New Hampton, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Allison, Rachel, and Michael Reaves; Scott, David, and Peder Amundson; and Timothy and Alec (fiancée, Rachel) Amundson; two brothers, Art Amundson of West Union and Kenny (Ruth) Amundson of Clermont; one sister, Norene Landsgard of Clermont; and one sister-in-law, Marjorie Amundson of Postville.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Almer, Morris, and Clifford Amundson; and two sisters-in-law, Norma and Hildur Amundson.

Celebration of Life Services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2014 at the East Clermont Lutheran Church in rural Clermont, Iowa with Rev. Ron Roberts as the officiant.

Visitation:  Friends called on Wednesday, February 4, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the East Clermont Lutheran Church rural Clermont and one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

Inurnment was held at a later date in the East Clermont Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Memorials in Clarence’s honor may be made to the Luren Singing Society or the East Clermont Lutheran Church Music Ministry.

Schutte-Grau Funeral Home in Clermont, Iowa is assisting the family with the arrangements. 

Condolences may be left at www.graufuneralhomes.com.

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Brenda Rodenberg

Brenda Kay (Berns) Rodenberg of Hawkeye passed away suddenly in West Union, Iowa, on Tuesday, January 28, 2014, at the age of 42. She was born on November 13, 1971, in Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin, to Gary Berns and Carol (Blume) Berns. She was raised in rural Elkader.

Brenda graduated from Central Community High School in 1990, and Hamilton Business College in 1991. She began working at Pattison's in Clayton, Iowa, and then moved to Norway, Iowa, where she was employed by Benton County Co-op.

In 1996, Brenda moved back to the area and began working for Pattison's in Fayette, Iowa. She then worked for Hawkeye Renewable until finally working for Innovative Ag. Brenda became a Grain Originator where she touched many lives in the agriculture world and will be greatly missed in the grain industry. She also spent many hours working and coordinating events at the Community Hall in Hawkeye.

She was married to Jamie Rodenberg in May of 1997, and they had one son, Blake William Rodenberg. She was very proud of Blake and the young man he has become. She enjoyed watching him play various sports and the time they shared on the golf course. Brenda took great pride in her new home and her gardening. She enjoyed sharing her amazing recipes with family and friends. Brenda also loved being an aunt to her nieces and nephews and treasured the opportunity to take them fishing and to parades in the summer.

Brenda's favorite things included morel mushroom hunting with Blake and her nieces and nephews, watching sports especially the Hawkeyes, Nascar races, football games, attending concerts, playing cards, and exercising. Brenda will be remembered for her willingness to help others and always taking care of everyone else first. 

She is survived by her son, Blake Rodenberg of Elkader; her parents, Gary & Carol Berns of Elkader; her siblings, Greg Berns (Heather) of Elkader, Julie Frieden (Bob) of Elgin, and Brian Berns (Hillary) of Dover, Delaware; nieces Isabella Moore, Kyella Frieden, Gabriella Berns and nephews, Trey Frieden, Dawson Berns, Broden Frieden, Garrett Frieden;  grandmother, Velma Berns of Elkader; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins, her special friend, Bill Mihm and her Hawkeye family.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Ella & Herman Blume, and her paternal grandfather Herbert Berns.

Leonard Funeral Home of Elkader is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left with www.leonardfuneralhomes.com.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 am - Tuesday, February 4, 2014, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elkader with Rev. Paul R. Peters as Celebrant.

Visitation: 4 to 7 pm – Monday, February 3, 2014, at Leonard Funeral Home in Elkader and after 10 Tuesday at the church.

Pallbearers: Bruce Mitchell, Brent Mitchell, David Boess, Al McCune, Chad Stannard, Tom Batterton.

Honorary Pallbearers: Ricky Bowers, Bill Mihm.

Music: Darlene Dittmer and Kevin Lau. 

Bertha L. Bark

Bertha L. Bark, 96, of rural Maynard, died on Sunday morning, Feb. 9, 2014, at the Palmer Lutheran Health Center at West Union.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Maynard with the Rev. James A. Adix officiating. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.

Interment will be in the Long Grove Cemetery in Maynard.

A memorial fund has been established in her name.

Bertha Lillie Bachle was born on Jan. 28, 1918, at Lamont, the daughter of August and Katharine (Kerchner) Bachle. The family moved to the Maynard area in 1921. She graduated from Maynard High School in the Class of 1935. 

She was united in marriage to Floyd Oliver Bark on Aug. 8, 1943, at Maynard. She was a homemaker and also worked in professional food service at Upper Iowa University at Fayette, Iowa for 23 years, retiring in 1990. 

Bertha was a longtime Randalia and Maynard area resident and had been a resident at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette since Aug. 4, 2010. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Maynard. Bertha enjoyed gardening, canning, flowers, crocheting, quilting and sewing.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband (Floyd O. Bark on August 3, 1966), four brothers, Oscar, Karl, Albert and Henry, a sister in infancy and a son-in-law: Bill Kreutner, Jr.

Bertha is survived by her daughter Linda Kreutner Patterson (Mike) of Sloan; son Larry (Wilda) Bark) of Fayette; four grandchildren, Todd Bark of Mediapolis, Tina Bark of Randalia, Sherri (Jake) Isbell of Garrison, and Shawn (Sara) Kreutner of Vinton; seven great-grandchildren, Kristian and Madeline Bark; Jacob and Kaitlin Isbell; William, Candace and Carly Kreutner; a sister Gertrude Bachle of Fayette; a sister-in-law, Virginia Bachle of Stockton, Calif., and several nieces and nephews.

Eugene Perry

Eugene Albert Perry, 86, of West Union, Iowa died Monday, February 10, 2014 at his home in West Union, Iowa. He was born on June 20, 1927 to Albert Roy and Edna (Manderfield) Perry in Castalia, Iowa. Eugene was baptized on October 7, 1946 at the United Brethren Church in Castalia, Iowa.

Eugene was united in marriage with Mary Limkemann on October 7, 1946 in Castalia, Iowa. Six children were born to this union. Mary passed away on February 16, 1983. He then married Geneva Daily on January 1, 1984. Eugene farmed until 1952, after that he delivered gas, fuel and LP from 1952-1974 and then owned Perry Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning from 1974-2002.

Eugene is survived by his wife, Geneva of thirty years; his children, Ruth Hilliard of Blaine, Minnesota, James (Carol) Perry of Enid, Oklahoma, John (Josephina) Perry of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Esther “Pat” Arellano of Antioch, California, Lois Meyers of Castro Valley, California and Mark Perry of Aransas Pass, Texas; twenty-three grandchildren; one great-grandchild and his sister, Marian Limkemann of Plainfield, Iowa.

Eugene was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Limkemann; his parents; his sister, Ramona Limkemann; his brother, Laverne Perry; brothers-in-law, Henry Limkemann and Dave Limkemann; a daughter-in-law, Carol Perry; a son-in-law, Gerald Hilliard and a granddaughter, Christina Perry.

Visitation was Wednesday, February 12, 2014 from 4-7 pm at Valley View Wesleyan Church in West Union, Iowa and one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

Funeral Services were at 10:30 am on February 13, 2014 at Valley View Wesleyan Church in West Union, Iowa with Rev. Leslie White as the Officiant.

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

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

Condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com.

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Leo Buchtela

Leo James Buchtela was born on March 16, 1923, to James and Anna (Plower) Buchtela in Churchtown, Iowa.

Leo worked for Rath Packing Plant in Waterloo, Iowa and Wardell Case in Oelwein, Iowa as a mechanic. He also worked as a farm hand and did custom farm work for several years. On March 17, 1962, Leo was united in marriage to Avis Hayes Lauer at the First Presbyterian Church in Hazleton, Iowa. The couple farmed in rural Fayette for many years.

Leo passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2014, at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. He loved dancing, farm sales and watching westerns on television. His prize possession were his mules and horses and he was a member of Saddle Club.

He is survived by his stepchildren; Lynette (Dale) Mork of West Union, Jerry (Judy) Lauer of Independence, Iowa, and Vernon (Linnea) Lauer of Forest, Virginia; three nieces, Lynn (Joe) Schwinghammer, Laura (Donnie) Bjorheim, and Janet (James) Webb; a niece-in-law, Amanda Buchtela; several step-grandchildren; two great nieces; a great nephew; and friends Donna (Jerry) Blue as well as a host of other friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Anna Buchtela; wife, Avis; two brothers, Hubert and Robert; two sisters, Maxine and Grace; and a nephew, Leonard Buchtela.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 18, 2014, at 10:30 am at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado, Iowa with the Rev. Ginny Olson officiating. Burial will be held at a later date at St. Peter Cemetery.

Public visitation was held on Monday, February 17, 2014, from 4:30 pm until 7:30 pm at S.K. Rogers & Burnham-Wood Funeral Home in West Union, Iowa.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home in West Union is in charge of the arrangements.     8u8

Robert "Glen" Medberry

Robert “Glen” Medberry, 89, of Elgin passed away Monday, February 10, 2014 at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette, Iowa.  Robert Glen, the son of James and Agnes (Kerr) Medberry, was born September 23, 1924 at Volga, Iowa.  Glen was baptized April 12, 1936 at Illyria Church, Elgin. He graduated from Volga High School in 1943.  Glen was united in marriage with Verna Gross in 1949 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Eldorado, Iowa.  Glen and Verna farmed north of Volga, until their retirement in 1988.

Glen was a leader in land conservation, he enjoyed forestry and livestock farming, especially Shorthorn Cattle.  The Clayton County Cattlemen’s Association presented him with the 1997 Cattleman of the Year Award.  He served on the Clayton County Farm Bureau Board of Directors for several years and was a Highland Township Trustee.  Glen was an active member of the Elgin Lutheran Church.  Glen was a kind and considerate man.

Glen is survived by his wife, Verna, of Elgin; daughter, Polly (Bruce) Pattison of Urbandale, Iowa; son, Rob (Dawn) Medberry of Volga; eight grandchildren, Fred and Anna Wiegel; Austin and Allison Pattison; Max, Madelin, Maria, and Mayleigh Medberry; one great-granddaughter, Dava Wiegel; and his sister, Arlene (Quinton) Olson of Clermont.

Glen was preceded in death by an infant son, John Mark Medberry; a daughter, Linda Flanders; and his parents.

Celebration of Life Services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, February 13, 2014 at the Elgin Lutheran Church in Elgin, Iowa.  Rev. Jerome Godson was the officiant.

Visitation:  Friends called Wednesday, February 12, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Elgin Lutheran Church in Elgin.  There was also a visitation one hour before services at the church on Thursday.

Inurnment: Inurnment will be held in the Elgin Cemetery at a later date.

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

Condolences may be left at www.graufuneralhomes.com.

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Rosemary Hyman

Rosemary Annette Hyman was born in Utica, Illinois on January 28, 1922.  She died February 8, 2014. She was the daughter of Thomas and Anna Nelson Pfund.  She attended Hawkeye Public School graduating in 1939.

On May 13, 1943 she married Raymond Hyman in San Rafael, California.  After Ray’s discharge from the Air Force, they returned to farm the home place in Hawkeye, Iowa until their retirement.

She was preceeded in death by her husband Ray Sr., her son Ray Jr., her brother Tom and her sisters Norma, Jean and Jane, and Margaret.  Her survivors include her daughters Diane (Harlan) Fels of Bloomington, IL, Susan (Dana) Rauch of Toddville, IA, and Martha Koch of Kittredge, CO.  She is also survived by eight grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren and three great, great grandchildren.

Rosemary was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawkeye serving in many capacities over the years.  She also served on the board of Bremwood Childrens Home, and on the board of Palmer Memorial Hospital.  She was an active member of the NE Iowa Art Association and participated in many workshops and shows, primarily in watercolor.

She loved the Lord Jesus and desired to honor and serve Him all the days of her life.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.              8u8

Robert Robinson

Robert W. Robinson, 91, of Creston, died Thursday, February 13, 2014 at the Creston Nursing and Rehab Center in Creston. There will be no visitation or funeral service at this time.  There will be a private committal service at the Hawkeye Cemetery at a later date. Powers Funeral Home in Creston is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given in Robert’s name to either the First United Methodist Church in Creston, or the Bella Vista Community Church in Bella Vista, Arkansas. Online condolences can be given at www.powersfh.com.  

Robert Walter Robinson, son of Walter Clarence Robinson and Belle Cedra (Brown) Robinson, was born on December 29, 1922 near Hawkeye, Iowa.  Robert enlisted and served in the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater in WW II from April 1943 until April 1946. He graduated from UIU following the war.  He received his Master’s degree in 1955 from the University of Iowa

On August 22, 1948, Robert married Anna Elizabeth Chamberlain at the Hawkeye Methodist Church in Hawkeye. He served as an educator for a total of 35 years; including Sutherland and Peterson before moving to Creston in 1959. Robert was the Elementary Supervisor of Schools and Helped initiate and supervised the Special Education Department in Creston School District for 27 years. He and Elizabeth retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas in 1986 where they resided until September 2013.

Robert was especially active in the Creston community during his years here.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and Rotary Club, and other organizations too many to count.  He belonged to the American Legion, Bella Vista Community Church, Crime Watch, and Garden Club in Bella Vista, Arkansas.

Robert is survived by his wife, Elizabeth of Creston; his brother Lloyd (wife Donna) Robinson, of Hawkeye, Iowa, two sons, John (wife Jeannine) Robinson of North Waterboro, Maine, their children, daughter Jessica Robinson of Boston, Mass., son Robbie (wife Jasmin) Robinson and their two boys Mattimeo and Link from Standish, Maine and son, William (wife Shelly) Robinson of Creston, their daughters Amanda Robinson of West Des Moines, and Emily Robinson of Creston. He is also survived by family and friends from in Bella Vista and from Iowa.        8u8

Rita M. Bushman

Rita M. Bushman, 88, of Ossian, passed away Sunday, Feb. 16, 2014, at Gunderson Health Systems in LaCrosse, Wis. 

Friends may call from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 18, at the Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home in Ossian and one hour before services at the church on Wednesday.  There will be a 3:30 p.m. Catholic Daughters Rosary Service and a 6:30 p.m. Scripture Service at the funeral home on Tuesday.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2014 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian with Monsignor Cletus Hawes as celebrant.

Inurnment  will be held at a later date in the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery in Ossian.

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

Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Ossian, assisted the family with the arrangements.

Rita Mary Elizabeth, the daughter of Bernard and Susie (Weber) Brincks, was born Sept. 1, 1925, on the family farm between Festina and Ossian. She attended the Collins School between Festina and Ossian. Rita helped her brother with the family farm until 1952. 

She was united in marriage with LaVerne A. Bushman on Nov. 20, 1951, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian.  In 1952, Rita and LaVerne started farming for many years near Ossian, until their retirement in 1984. 

Rita also worked as a housekeeper for Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union and she cleaned several houses. Rita and LaVerne both worked as housekeepers for St. Francis de Sales School in Ossian until retiring in 2002.

Rita was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, and the Rosary Society.  She also belonged to the Ossian Garden Club, Senior Citizens Community Club, the Square Dancing Club, and Card Club. 

She enjoyed crocheting, gardening, traveling to many states, being a grandma, coffee time at Casey’s, and she loved playing cards.  Rita also did volunteer work at Palmer Hospital and the Ossian Senior Hospice. 

Rita is survived by her husband of sixty-two years, LaVerne, of Ossian; her daughter, Susie (Clete Christianson) Thorson of Elgin; her son, Steve (Ann) Bushman of Ft. Atkinson; eight grandchildren, Corey (Amy) Thorson; Sheena (Bill Bouzek) Thorson; Dustin (Jaimie) Thorson; Brent (Ashley) Bushman; Jessie (Jared Siebrecht) Bushman; Nicole (Steven “Spin”) Langreck; Daniel (Leta) Hageman; and Elissa Hageman; seventeen great-grandchildren; one brother, Richard (Evelyn) Brincks of Ossian; one sister, Edna Huinker of Ossian; three sisters-in-law, Maxine Brincks of Ossian, Henrietta Krumm of Decorah, Iowa and Irene Brincks of Lawler, Iowa.

Rita was preceded in death by a son who died in infancy; a granddaughter, Carrie, who died in infancy; her parents; four brothers; and three sisters. 

Thomas Durnan

Thomas Joseph Durnan, 70, of West Union, passed away at his home on Thursday, February 20, 2014. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

Thomas Joseph Durnan was born on March 21, 1943 in Ossian, IA, the son of Philip and Lena (Sanquist) Durnan. He proudly served his country in the US Navy after high school. He married his wife, Karen on October 24, 1990 in Woodstock, IL.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Karen; daughter, Christina “Tina” (Randy) Nau of Tipton; son, Thomas Joseph “T.J.” (Jenny) Durnan of Seattle, WA; grandsons, Corey Nau of Avondale, AZ, Garrett Nau of Tipton; sister, Marilee Jensen of Phoenix, AZ; brother, Laurence Durnan of Waterloo; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Beverly Reeves and Phyllis Marsden; brothers, Jerald, Daniel, and David Durnan.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Palmer Hospice at 200 Jefferson Street, West Union, IA 52175.

He will be missed.

Condolences to the family may be left at www.iowacremation.com under “Obituaries.”    9u9

Sue Hansmeier

Sue M. Hansmeier, 67, of Waukon, IA, died Monday, February 17, 2014, at her home in Waukon. Memorial services were held Wednesday, February 19th, at 7:00 PM at Echo Valley Banquet Center in West Union, IA. Pastor Galen Smith officiated. Friends called from 3:00 PM until the time of service Wednesday at the Echo Valley Banquet Center. Martin Funeral Home in Waukon was in charge of arrangements.

Suzanne Marie Hansmeier was born May 30, 1946, in Albert Lea, MN, the daughter of Oscar and Bernice (Roberts) Peterson. She graduated from high school in Wells, MN, and in 1966, graduated from La James Beauty School. On January 2, 1965, Sue married Lee Hansmeier and the couple made their home in Waukon, IA. Sue was a beautician for Helen Campbell and at Althea’s Beauty Shop. She also worked as a waitress for Theresa Rooney’s 66 Café. Sue and Lee owned their own businesses: Hansmeier Truck and Trailer in Waukon, where she was also the office manager, and Echo Valley Speedway in West Union, IA.

     She enjoyed working at Echo Valley and loved the racers and the fans. Sue also loved butterflies; along with collecting them, she made and sold them at craft shows. Mostly though, she was “crazy nuts” about Elvis Presley.

Sue is survived by her husband of 49 years Lee Hansmeier of Waukon; her four children: Annette Hansmeier of Waukon, Troy (Joy) Hansmeier of Waukon, Mike Hansmeier of Lisbon, IA, and Kim (Neil) Kregel of Waterville, IA; grandchildren: Paul Hansmeier, Desiree and Dallas Kregel, Drew and Chance Hillman, and Chris and Heather Fee; two sisters: Janet Purvis of Ashville, NC, and Judy (Arlo) Tweeten of Hartland, MN; and sisters-in-law: Gladys Roberts of Stoughton, WI, and Ann (Tom) Kirkenbush of Evansville, WI.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers: Mike and Larry Peterson.

Online condolences may be left at www.martinfunerals.com.          9u9

Mary Lou Greco

Mary Lou Greco, 80, of rural Maynard, died on Tuesday, January 14, 2014, at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union.

Mass of Christian Burial was held Jan. 18, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein with the Rev. Paul McManus and Deacon Jim Patera officiating.

Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Oelwein.

A memorial fund has been established for Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

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

Mary Lou Taylor was born on March 17, 1933, in Oelwein, the daughter of Jay and Lucille (Nank) Taylor. 

She received her education at the Maynard schools and graduated in the West Central Class of 1951.  Mary Lou was united in marriage to Peter John Greco on Aug. 17, 1957, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein. They lived and farmed in rural Maynard for 56 years.

Mary Lou worked as the office manager for Central Transit Warehouse in Oelwein for 35 years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Rosary Society. She was a seamstress and enjoyed gardening, baking, cooking and sharing family recipes with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mary Lou is survived by her husband of 56 years, Peter J. Greco of Maynard; niece, Marguerite Miner; two nephews, Lawrence Greco and Steven Greco and many other nieces and nephews.

Stanley R. Donat

Stanley R. Donat, 90, of Randalia, died Monday, Feb. 24, 2014, at Unity Point/ Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 27, at Union United Methodist Church in rural Sumner, with Pastor Johnny Ray Tucker officiating.

Interment will follow at Union Cemetery.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014, at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Sumner and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

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

Stanley Ray Donat was born in rural Randalia, on May 28, 1923, to Marion and Ruth (Dawson) Donat. He was baptized on May 6, 1928, at the Randalia Episcopal Church. He graduated from Maynard High School in 1941. He served in World War II under General Patton in the 253rd Armor Field Battalion, 1943-1946, and fought in the Battle of the Bulge.

He met Phyllis Elizabeth Hof and was married at Union Church on July 14, 1946, after a brief six-week courtship. Stanley was a lifetime farmer and worked for John Deere as an inspector, retiring in 1973. He was an active member of Union United Methodist Church. Stanley and Phyllis were blessed with five children, Janice, James, Ray, Ann, and Patricia.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, who died in 2013; his parents; his son, Ray, who died in 2006; brothers, Gale and Eugene; and granddaughter Elizabeth.

Stanley is survived by his children, Janice (Steve) Vorthmann of Sumner, James (Darise) Donat of Maynard, Pastor Ann Donat of Greene, and Dr. Patricia (Gil Katzenstein) Donat of Dahlonega, Ga; daughter-in-law, Connie Donat Nuss of Sumner; 14 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; and sister, Arlene Samuelson of Cedar Falls.

George C. Wolfe

George C. Wolfe, age 83, of Ossian, died Monday, Monday, Feb. 17, 2014, at Aase Haugen Home in Decorah.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21, at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Ossian, with Rev. Msgr. Cletus J. Hawes officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery with full military honors by Brockman Hammersland American Legion Post 503. 

Fjelstul Funeral Home in Decorah assisted the family with the arrangements.

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

George Christian Wolfe was born on Dec. 8, 1930, on a farm near Festina, the son of Joseph and Anna (Gesing) Wolfe. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church and attended Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic School until the third grade.  At that time he started attending St. Francis DeSales Catholic School in Ossian. George graduated St. Francis De Sales High School with the class of 1948.

After high school, George spent several years working on the family farm near Ossian. He was later drafted into the army and spent two years with the United States Army Military Police in Japan. He then returned home to help out on the family farm. After George’s mother passed away in 1978, George moved to Ossian.

George was a member of the Knights of Columbus in Ossian and also the Veteran’s Association. He loved to garden and socialize. For many years he was in charge of the Silver Springs softball diamond and concession stand in Ossian. George loved getting to know the ball players, their wives and families. George had an amazing memory and would give the kids personalized pencils on their birthdays. 

George spent the past two and a half years at Aase Haugen Home in Decorah. He loved the caring and attentive staff. He enjoyed their company and their efforts to keep him comfortable.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Anna; his sisters: Helen Puccio and Blanche Schuler; his brothers: Zeno, Joseph and Alex; one niece: Judy Grauman and two nephews: Philip Wolfe and David Schuler.

George is survived by his brother, Norbert, and his sister, Genevieve Campagna; many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Father of Joe Flores dies in Mason City

Albert Flores, 84, of Mason City, died Thursday (Feb. 20, 2014) at Hospice of North Iowa, Mason City.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014, at Epiphany Parish-Holy Family Catholic Church, 714 N. Adams Ave., Mason City.

Visitation was held one hour prior to the service at Epiphany Parish-Holy Family Catholic Church. Burial was held in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.

Those wishing to give a memorial in his memory may wish to consider a contribution to the Hospice of North Iowa.

Albert Flores, the son of Joseph and Emma (Trujillo) Flores, was born June 4, 1929, in Mason City. As a young man he moved with his family to Durango, Mexico. It was there that he met his future wife, Herminia Loera.

Albert was united in marriage to Herminia “Minnie” Loera on Jan. 25, 1948, in Durango, Mexico, and enjoyed 66 years of marriage. Albert was the love of Herminia’s Life and always will be. Together they had seven children.

Albert grew up in Mason City, raised his family here and worked at the Lehigh Cement Plant for 39 years as a kiln burner. He was proud of his accomplishments and contributions he made to his job.

Albert loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved his family very much and was respected and admired by his children. He also enjoyed gardening, reading and playing the saxophone. When he was younger, Albert was in a band called “The Latin’s.” Albert and Herminia enjoyed many years of dancing at the Frontier Club and Surf Ballroom.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Herminia “Minnie” Flores; children, Joe (Nancy) Flores of Fayette, Margaret (Dick) Rodgers, Dan (Joni) Flores, Stella (Jeff) Cumming, Anita (Brett) Bigger; 14 grandchildren;10 great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Helen (Rudy) Ibarra, Mary (Nick) Aguilera, Anita (Alonzo) Martinez, Fred (Doris) Flores and John (Joanne) Flores; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; aunts and uncles; in-laws, Luis and Angela Loera; brother-in-law Lucio Loera; sister-in-law, Ancelma Loera; his brother, Roy Flores; and his beloved sons, Steve and Louie.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapels, Mason City; ColonialChapels.com.