Joint memorial service held for John and Barbara Loyd

Barbara A. Loyd, 72, of Salem, IA died Wednesday, February 19, 2014, from injuries sustained in a residential fire. Her husband, John, died simultaneously in the tragedy.

Mrs. Loyd’s body has been cremated.  A memorial service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 28 at the Faith Christian Outreach Church in Mount Pleasant with Pastor Monte Knudsen officiating.  Inurnment will be held at a later date at the Salem East Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to family.  

The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel in Mt. Pleasant assisted the family with the arrangements.  Online condolences may be directed to www.olsonpowell.com.

Born October 21, 1941, in Galesburg, IL, Barbara Ann was the daughter of Forrest and Anna (Fisher) Kilpatrick.  She graduated from Galesburg High School in 1959.  On December 14, 1964 she married John Loyd in Joy, IL.  

In her early years of employment, she worked at the Friendly Café and also for the telephone company in Abbington, IL.  After moving to Henry County, she cooked at the Henry County Home for ten years.  Later she was employed as a cook at the Pleasant Manor Care Center for twenty years and retired from there in 2007.

Barbara was baptized and was a member of the Faith Christian Outreach Church.  She always enjoyed doing her crossword puzzles, loved working with her flowers, reading and watching the birds outside of the kitchen window.  Barbara was an animal lover and was especially fond of her cats.  Her greatest love was spending time with her family.

Survivors include a son, Joe Loyd of Salem, IA; a daughter, Tina (Mark) Nordyke of Mt. Pleasant, IA; two grandchildren, Mahlana Loyd and Levi Forbess; two stepgrandchildren, Nieca Nordyke and Levi Nordyke.  Also surviving are two brothers, Forrest (Donna) Kilpatrick and Eric (Radene) Kilpatrick, all of Galesburg, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a son, John A. Loyd, Jr.

Interred in West Union

Janet M. Buschhaus (nee Ritchie) found peace February 26, 2014 at the age of 78. 

Born in LeMars, she grew up in West Union. In 1953, she graduated from West Union High School, where she participated in many activities. To stay in touch, she and seven of her classmates began a round-robin letter over 60 years ago, and it continues to this day.

Janet married Rolf Buschhaus on June 23, 1957, at United Methodist Church in West Union.

Preceded in death by her husband Rolf and her brother Fred Ritchie. Dear mother of Ann (Allan Ries) Buschhaus, and Karl Rosemary). Loving Grandmother to Anke, and Soren Ries-Buschhaus, Octavia, Kenneth, Roland, and Torsten Buschhaus. Dear sister of Karen (Stephen) Hessl. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation Monday, March 3, 2014 at CHURCH AND CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME (7626 W Greenfield Ave) from 5:00 PM until 6:45 PM with a service to follow at 7:00 PM. Burial Tuesday, March 4, 2014 at West Union Cemetery in West Union, IA at 3:00 PM. 

In lieu of flowers memorials to The Southern Poverty Law Center appreciated.

Joint memorial service held for John and Barbara Loyd

John A. Loyd, 74, of Salem, IA, died Wednesday, February 19, 2014, from injuries sustained in a residential fire.  His wife, Barbara, died simultaneously in the tragedy.

Mr. Loyd’s body has been cremated. A memorial service was held on Friday, February 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the Faith Christian Outreach Church in Mount Pleasant with Pastor Monte Knudsen officiating.  Inurnment will be held at a later date at the Salem East Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to family. 

The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel in Mt. Pleasant assisted the family with the arrangements.  Online condolences may be directed to www.olsonpowell.com.

Born April 29, 1939, in Oelwein, IA, John Allen was the son of Arthur and LaVon (O’Dell) Loyd.  He attended country school near Lima, IA.  Mr. Loyd served in the United States Army and was stationed in Anchorage, AK.    On December 14, 1964, he was united in marriage to Barbara Ann Kilpatrick in Joy, IL.  

John was employed over the years at various places.  He worked at the Big Creek Ranch for many years.  Later he was a security guard at Heatilator (now Hearth and Home Technologies) and Firestone Tire in Burlington during the same period of time.  John was engaged for many years as a semi-truck driver. He hauled logs for Batey Ltd. in Mt. Pleasant and drove for Fox Diamond Transport in Davenport.  His last employment was driving a truck for Ideal Concrete, from which he retired in 2006.

John loved the outdoors and going fishing. One could often find him building something, tinkering with lawn mowers or his tractor, working in his beloved garden or helping a friend in need.  He was a family man and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and taking in Westerns on television.   He was also a member of the Salem American Legion.

Survivors include a son, Joe Loyd of Salem, IA; a daughter, Tina (Mark) Nordyke of Mt. Pleasant, IA; two grandchildren, Mahlana Loyd and Levi Forbess; two stepgrandchildren, Nieca Nordyke and Levi Nordyke. 

Also surviving are two sisters, Annabelle (Bob) Pagel of Decorah, IA and Helen (Wayne) Bentley of Fayette, IA; a brother, Tom (Mary) Loyd of Hawkeye, IA; and two sisters-in-law, Sandy Loyd of Elgin, IA and Geneva (Lloyd) Stewart of West Burlington, IA.

John was preceded in death by his parents; a son, John A. Loyd, Jr.; and by three brothers, Louis, Harold and Robert.

John Metzger

John Metzger, 92, of Clermont, Iowa passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2014, at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union, Iowa.

A public visitation will be held from 4 pm until 7 pm on Friday, March 14, 2014 at Burnham-Wood Funeral Home in West Union.

A public graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2014 at 11 am at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in rural West Union, Iowa with the Rev. Rusty Phillips officiating.

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

Jim Koch

James “Jim” Henry Koch was born on January 30, 1944, to Fred and Mildred (Wetherbee) Koch at Palmer Lutheran Health Center in West Union, Iowa. He graduated from North High School in West Union, Iowa in 1962.

Jim passed away at the age of 70 on Thursday, March 6, 2014, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Jim was united in marriage to LaVonne Knief on November 15, 1964 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Klinger, Iowa. Five children were born to this union. The couple farmed near Hawkeye for 8 years and near West Union for 41 years. Jim was recognized for his farming achievements earning the Lutheran Young Farmer Award in 1974 and Jim and his family were selected as KWWL Farm Family of the Week.

Jim was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in West Union, Iowa, where he was active in Saturday morning men’s bible study and served as a council member. He was a member of the Fayette County and Iowa State Pork Producers, serving as state president from 1996 until 1997. He was very active in 4-H and FFA, earning several degrees and awards; honorary FFA chapter degree, FFA Appreciation Award in 1992, Outstanding Service Award FFA in 1998, Iowa FFA Degree in 1962, and American FFA Degree in 1965. Jim also served on the Fayette County Fair Board. According to his family, “Jim lived to love his faith”. He was named Brotherhood Man of the Year in 1979 and Outstanding Young Religious Leader by the West Union Jaycees.

He enjoyed fishing, camping, reading and grilling. Jim had a passion for music and played the trombone as a member of HiLiters Dance Band and concert band. Jim attained the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of the Boy Scouts of America.

He is survived by his wife, LaVonne of West Union; five children, Dwane (Roni Sue) Koch of Hawkeye, IA, Rodney (Loretta) Koch of Osage, IA, Teresa (John) Zweibahmer of Ossian, IA, Brian Koch of Waukon, IA, and Keith (Bobbie Jo) Koch of Hawkeye, IA; three sisters, Lorraine (Steve) Sindelar, Ellen (Bob) Helming, and Arlene (Leon) Soppe; a brother, Bill Koch; an aunt, Alice Koester; thirteen grandchildren, Stephanie, Kayleigh and Tiffanie Koch; Darin, Adam, Hannah, Lydia Koch; Michael, Ashley, Amanda, and Andrea Zweibahmer; and Courtney and Austin Koch; two god-children, Matthew Adrian and Lisa Russell; a mentor, Wayne Marquette; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister-in-law, Cheryl Koch.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, March 11, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church in West Union, Iowa. Burial followed at Hawkeye Cemetery in Hawkeye, Iowa.

Visitation was held on Monday, March 10, 2014 from 4 pm until 8 pm at Zion Lutheran Church in West Union.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home of West Union was in charge of the arrangements.   11u11

Kristine (Bouska) Foreman

Kristine Marie Foreman, age 43 of Rosemount passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on March 3, 2014. Kristine was born April 6, 1970 at New Hampton Hospital to Cletus & Lorna Bouska. She married Duane Foreman August 17, 1991. She graduated high school at North Fayette in West Union, IA. She attended college at Waldorf, Luther, and St. Thomas University and received her BA in education. Her passion was teaching young children whom she taught in various capacities including private & public schools, opening a preschool called “God’s Little People”, and home schooling her own children. Her joy for teaching flowed over into her faith and she expressed it to all whom she came in contact with. The highlight of her life was a family mission trip to Canada just before she was diagnosed with cancer. Her beautiful voice and love for music was a gift that she shared with her very talented children. She is survived by her husband, Duane; children: Adam, Aaron, Isaac, and Anna; Parents, Cletus and Lorna Bouska; siblings: Robert (Karen) Bouska, Carol (John) Zbornik, Kim (Jason) Kuehner, and Thomas (Ricki) Bouska; also by other loving nieces and nephews and other relatives and many friends. Memorial services will take place in Minnesota and Iowa. A memorial visitation took place at St Mary's church in Waucoma, Iowa from 3-8pm Thursday, March 6th and a memorial service on friday at 10:30am at St Mary's Church. A memorial service also took place on Sunday at Hosanna! Lutheran church (160th and Ipava Ave) in Lakeville, MN at 2pm with an hour prior visitation.

Wally Oxley

Wally Oxley, age 83, of Ossian, died on Saturday, March 1, 2014, at the Patty Elwood Center in Cresco.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 6, at Ossian Lutheran Church in Ossian with the Rev. David Lenth officiant.

Interment was in Greenwood Centennial Cemetery in Ossian.

The family was assisted with the arrangements by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home of Decorah.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be given to the Patty Elwood Center, 21668 80th Street, Cresco, IA, 52136 or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Anthony Walter “Wally” Oxley, Jr, was born on Dec. 28, 1930, the son of Anthony “Tad” and Clarissa (Rovang) Oxley, Sr., on the family farm, rural Ossian.  Wally was baptized and confirmed at the Ossian Lutheran Church. 

He attended country school near Ossian and high school at the Wentworth Military Academy in Missouri where he was a Featherweight Golden Gloves Boxer. Wally served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.

Wally was united in marriage to Alice Nelson on Aug. 7, 1960, at the Ossian Lutheran Church. He attended college in Arizona, farmed the family farm and went back to college at Luther College, graduating in 1980. Wally worked for the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) for Fayette, Clayton and then Winneshiek County, until the age of 75. 

He was an avid reader; reading many history books and magazines. He enjoyed classical music, loved the family farm and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye and Green Bay Packer fan. Wally was a member of the Brockman-Hammersland American Legion Post 503 in Ossian.

Wally was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony “Tad” and Clarissa (Rovang) Oxley. His wife: Alice Oxley on Jan. 9, 2004 and two sisters, Libby Williams and Ingrid Brady.

Wally is survived by his two children, Susan (Dennis) Bigler, Decorah, and Anthony “Andy” (Mary Beth Hathaway) Oxley III, Nashville, Tenn.; four grandchildren, Lynnae (Lucas) Kuene, Dustin Bigler, Stewart Oxley and Elizabeth Oxley. Two brothers-in-law: David (Karen) Nelson, Prairie du Chien, Wis., and Hugh Brady, Ames, along with many nieces and nephews.  

William Dessel

William Henry Dessel, 89, of Ossian, died Friday, March 7, 2014, at his home in Ossian.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian. Monsignor Cletus Hawes will be the Celebrant.

  Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until time of services on Saturday, March 15, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian,a. 

Inurnment will be held in the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery in Ossian, following the Mass of Christian Burial.

  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Ossian Ambulance Team and the Ossian Fire Department.

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

Condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com

Marian Stammeyer

Marian Stammeyer, age 93, of St. Lucas, Iowa, died on Friday, March 14, 2014, at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian, Iowa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Nick March at St. Luke Catholic Church in St. Lucas at 10:30 a.m. today (Wednesday, March 19).

Mass servers will be Brooke and Nathan Herold. Music will be provided by organist Kathy Meyer and St. Luke’s Choir, which will sing “Amazing Grace,” “On This Beautiful Day,” “Softly and Tenderly,” and “How Great Thou Art.” The lector will be John Stammeyer. Eucharistic ministers will be Darlene Schwamman, Barb Reicks, Richard Nienhaus, and Cora Lynch. Offertory gift bearers will be Dan Stammeyer and Mary Leah Johns.

Interment will be in St. Luke Catholic Cemetery in St. Lucas. Casket bearers are Jeff Stammeyer, Tony Stammeyer, Mike Tallman, David Stammeyer, Matt Johns and Matt Herold.

Arrangements are being handled by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home, Decorah.

Marian (Schaufenbuel) Stammeyer was born on May 22, 1920, one of nine children born to Joseph and Anna (Langreck) Schaufenbuel in St. Lucas, Iowa.  Marian was raised on a farm east of St. Lucas, IA.  She attended St. Luke’s Catholic School in St. Lucas through the 8th grade.  She was united in marriage to Lee Stammeyer on May 9, 1944.  Marian was a homemaker her whole life.  She was an excellent cook and seamstress at a young age.  She made beautiful bedspreads and afghans and crocheted many beautiful things.  Marian also tried her hand at pottery, making many beautiful items, like Christmas trees.  She enjoyed working crossword puzzles.  Marian was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church and also sang alto in the St. Lucas church choir for many years.  She was also a member of the Catholic Daughters of America.  Marian managed sixteen apartments in West Union and did all the cleaning of them when people moved in and out.  To her children, she was known as “Mrs. Clean”.  For several years she worked at Your Choice Beef with her brother Bill and his wife, Marie. Marian’s journey started eight years ago when she slowly began to slip away from us due to the dreaded disease of Alzheimer’s.  She will be missed by all who loved her.

Marian is survived by her husband: Lee Stammeyer, St. Lucas, IA.  Five children: Dan (Carol) Stammeyer, Marion, IA; Mary Leah (Mike) Johns, Hereford, AZ; Terry (Carol) Stammeyer, Schueyville, IA; Kevin (friend, Marilyn) Stammeyer, St. Paul, MN; and John (Tina) Stammeyer, Newton, IA; along with nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.  One sister: Julie Tallman, Decorah, IA. Sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Marie Schaufenbuel, St. Lucas, IA; Irene Riffle, Kahoka, MO; Anita Herold, Fort Atkinson, IA; Frank (Lu) Stammeyer, Oelwein, IA; Joseph Stammeyer, Waukon, IA; David (Jacquelyn) Stammeyer, Quincy, IL; Cindy Stammeyer, Cedar Rapids, IA; and Marguerite Stammeyer, St. Lucas, IA; as well as many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Marian was preceded in death by her parents:  Joe and Anna (Langreck) Schaufenbuel. One son: Mark Stammeyer.  One grandson: Jamie Jones.  Five brothers: Tony, Henry, Leo, Ben, and William Schaufenbuel.  Two sisters: Frances (Nick) Kuennen and Sister Johanna Schaufenbuel FSPA.  Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: John Tallman, Elizabeth (Ben) Schaufenbuel, Elizabeth (Leo) Schaufenbuel, Jim Riffle, Cletus Herold, Don Stammeyer, Peter Stammeyer, Florian Stammeyer, Richard Stammeyer and Margaret Stammeyer.         12u12

John Metzger

John “Johnny” Metzger was born on June 1, 1921 to George and Louisa (Martie) Metzger at rural Elgin, IA. He attended school at Lime Kiln Country School, rural Elgin.

John passed away March 9, 2014 at Palmer Lutheran Hospital, West Union, IA.

John married Viola Howard on May 1, 1942 at the parsonage of the First Baptist Church, Elgin, Ia. Six children were born to this union. John farmed and drove livestock truck for his brother Ervin at Metzger Livestock, Elgin. He also worked at Hygrade Plant, Postville. In 1954 he started working for Interstate Power Company, West Union. He was employed there until retirement in 1984. He also had a tree cutting business with Bob Hanson, Elkader during those years. In 1966 John’s son, Steve and him started the Metzger Bait Shop in West Union which he still ran until 2013. Johnny mowed lawns for the elderly in Clermont until the age of 90.

John’s passion was coon hunting, trapping, deer hunting and fishing. He loved telling stories of his childhood, playing cards with his friends and family. John especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. John also showed coon hounds and served as vice president of the Northeast Iowa Coon Hunters Assoc. John was willing to lend a helping hand at all times.

Survivors are his children: Darlene (Lowell) Maurer, Fairbank, Ia., Diane Bronson, Waterloo, Ia., JoAnn (Neal) Bishop, Clermont, Steven (Cynthia) Metzger, Clermont, Ia., Marlene (Craig) Woodson, Hawkeye, IA., Carol (Marti) Swenson, Clermont, Ia.; 12 grandchildren, Brenda (Maurer) & Randy Hagenow, Dean Maurer, Jon Bronson, Darin & (Jodi) Bronson, Nanette (Bronson) & Johnny Syharath, Don & (Sheri) Bishop, Jeff Bishop, JoDee (Bishop) Sherwood & Bernie Sherwood, Jenny (Metzger) & Dan Macken, Kristi (Metzger) & Travis Hiatt, Brock & (Maya) Swenson and Alesha Swenson; 19 great-grandchildren, Tarissa and Garett Hagenow; Aaron and Ian Dahlin; Preston, Parker and Delaney Bronson; Maddy, Malia and Morgan Bronson; Anna and Ashton Syharath; Trevor and Trey Hiatt; Victoria and Brianna Bishop; Asami Clark and Samantha Sherwood; Lily Swenson; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Viola; granddaughter, Dody (Bronson) Dahlin; son-in-law, Bing Bronson; brothers, Ervin (Ruth) Metzger, Eli (Marcella) Metzger, Noah Metzger and an infant brother Elmer Metzger, sisters, Sarah (Orville) Moore and Katie (Paul) Grimm.

Casket bearers are John’s grandsons, Dean Maurer, John Bronson, Darin Bronson, Don Bishop, Jeff Bishop and Brock Swenson.

Honorary casket bearers are his granddaughters, Brenda (Maurer) Hagenow, Nanette (Bronson) Syharath, JoDee Sherwood, Jenny (Metzger) Macken, Kristi (Metzger) Hiatt and Alesha Swenson.

A public visitation was held from 4 pm until 7 pm on Friday, March 14, 2014 at Burnham-Wood Funeral Home in West Union.

A public graveside service was held on Saturday, March 15, 2014 at 11 am at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in rural West Union, Iowa with the Rev. Rusty Phillips officiating.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home of West Union was in charge of the arrangements.   12u12

Merlin Rohrig

Merlin E. “Buster”  Rohrig, 67, of Hazleton, Iowa died on Sunday evening, March 16, 2014 at the Buchanan County Health Center in Independence.

Funeral Service:  11:00 A.M. Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church, Oelwein with Rev. Leo Combs-Lay officiating.

Visitation:  4:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein and for one hour before the service at the church on Thursday.

Military Service:  7:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home by the Oelwein American Legion Ross Reid Post #9.

Inurnment: Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, rural Oelwein, Iowa.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Merlin Eugene Rohrig was born on May 8, 1946 in Manchester, Iowa, the son of Harley Glenn & Erma Leora (Heidt) Rohrig.  He received his education at the Stanley & Oelwein Schools.  Merlin served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1968 in Ft. Carson, Colorado.  Merlin was married to Linda LaBarre on January 31, 1970 in Independence, Iowa.  They later divorced in May of 1999.  Merlin lived most of his life in the Cedar Rapids area where he worked at Wilson Sinclair (Farmstead) from 1969 until it closed.  He also worked at PMX Industries in Cedar Rapids from its opening until his retirement in 2012.  Merlin loved to hunt, fish, gamble, listen to Johnny Cash music, work in his garden and play with his dog, Sparky.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.  Merlin and his family are forever grateful for all the assistance he received from the Kidney Foundation.

Merlin is survived by his Ex-Wife: Linda Rohrig of Cedar Rapids; Twin Sons:  Ron Rohrig of Cedar Rapids & Rod Rohrig (special friend:  Monica Craig) of Cedar Rapids; Daughter:  Robin (Dan) Phillips of Cedar Rapids; 3 Grandsons:  Justin Phillips, Jacob Phillips and Westley Rohrig; 3 Sisters:  Eleanor Hummel of Oelwein, Ursula Hummel of West Union & Sandra K. Rohrig of West Union; Special Friend:  Bev Michels of Rowley; Daughter-In-Law: Nancy Rohrig of Springville and Several Nieces & Nephews.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers-in-law:  Delbert Hummel & Duane Hummel.

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Ruby (West) Rivers

Ruby L. (West) Rivers, 90, of Oelwein and formerly of Arlington, died Tuesday morning, March 11, 2014, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 15, at St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington with the Rev. Paul Fohs officiating.

Interment was in Taylorsville Cemetery in rural Arlington.

A Memorial Fund has been established in her name.

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

Ruby Leona Larson was born July 24, 1923, in Highland Township, Clayton County, the daughter of Adolph Henry and Anne Mary (Johnson) Larson. She graduated from Elkader High School. 

On July 7, 1941, Ruby was united in marriage to Robert Ernest West. In 1981, Robert died and Ruby later moved to Oelwein. On March 21, 2007, she was united in marriage to Dean Alfred Rivers. 

Ruby was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington and Ladies Card Club. She enjoyed dancing, playing cards, music, flowers, volunteering at Grandview Nursing Home and Arlington Place Assisted Living and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, Robert West on Sept. 11, 1981, and Dean Rivers on May 13, 2011; son-in-law, Richard Smith; sister, Norma Harrington; sister-in-law, Elva Mae Larson; and two brothers-in-law, Herbert Berns and Bill Christiansen.

Ruby is survived by her five children, Mardelle (Leon) Streicher of Lamont, Roger (Mario) West of Unionville, Mo., Diane Smith of Lamont, Sheryl (Randy) Sherman of Maynard, and Larry (Annette) West of West Union; 13 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; six stepchildren, Ronald Rivers of Nashua, Edna Rivers of Winthrop, Gerald (Sue) Rivers of Keil, Wis., Roger Hagarty of Seattle, Wash., Kenneth Rivers of What Cheer, and Teresa Rivers of Waverly; 15 step-grandchildren, 19 step—great-grandchildren; three brothers, Mervin Larson of Postville, Donald (Rita) Larson of Elkader, and Carroll Larson of Elkader; two sisters, Velma Berns of Elkader, and Mildred Christiansen of Edgewood; and many nieces and nephews.

Ida M. Otto

Ida M. Otto, 88, of Fayette, died Sunday evening, March 16, 2014, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today (Wednesday, March 19), at Fayette Community Church in Fayette with Pastor Andy Sayer officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to service time on Wednesday at the church.

Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery in Fayette.

A memorial fund has been established in her name for the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha.

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

Ida Mae Conner was born October 5, 1925, at Waucoma, the daughter of Phillip Byron and Maude Luella (Nims) Conner. 

On Nov. 15, 1948, she was united in marriage to William Adolph Otto. Ida was a devoted homemaker to her 11 children while also working at the Coffee Nook in Fayette and the Maynard Café in Maynard. She enjoyed spending time with her family, playing cards, embroidery and cooking for her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband in 1989; great grandson, Tommy Lee Kulish; sister, Elizabeth Pierce; and five brothers, Raymond, Joe, Richard, Leslie and Charles Conner.

Ida is survived by her 11 children: Snooky (Jr.) Randall of Waterloo, Charlie (Ilene) Otto of Maynard, Barb (Marion) Reed of Anamosa, Pat Gage of Fayette, Paul (Marie) Otto of Center Point, Kathy (Larry) Waitman of Arlington, Deb (Pete) Nelson of West Union, Bill (Lea) Otto of Euless, Texas, Kevin (Chris) Otto of Cedar Rapids, Raymond (Karen) Otto of Center Point, and Russ (Sue) Otto of Trophy Club, Texas; 36 grandchildren; 66 great—grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren; and a sister Phyllis Prunchak of Bettendorf.

Frances Hoopman

Frances Josephine Hoopman, 100, died Dec. 27, 2013, at the Good Samitarian Home in West Union.

Memorial services for Frances Hoopman will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2014 at 1 p.m. at the West Clermont Lutheran Church in Clermont. Private interment at the New Oregon Cemetery in Cresco. 

In lieu of flowers, a gift could be given to the West Clermont Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.

William “Bill” Dessel, 89, of Ossian, died Friday, March 7, 2014, surrounded by family at his home.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 15, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian with Monsignor Cletus Hawes as celebrant.

Inurnment was in St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery in Ossian with full military rites provided by the Brockman-Hammersland Post 503 following the Mass of Christian Burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Ossian Ambulance, Ossian Fire Department, St. Francis de Sales Church, or St. Francis de Sales School.

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

Online condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com

William “Bill” Henry Dessel, was born April 27, 1924, to Henry and Frances (Lesser) Dessel. He was baptized and confirmed in his faith at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and graduated from St. Francis de Sales Catholic High School in 1942. 

Bill enlisted in the army in 1943 and completed basic training at Camp Barkeley in Texas. He underwent training as a medical laboratory technician at William Beaumont General Hospital. He served on the USS Patton medical hospital ship stationed in New Guinea and the Philippines. He was honorably discharged in 1946 as a staff sergeant and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal. Bill graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s of science in chemistry from Loras College in 1948.  

On June 21, 1952, William was united in marriage to Elsie K. Hemesath at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. They celebrated nearly 58 years of marriage and were blessed with nine children. 

Bill worked with his father and his uncle, Henry and Andrew Dessel at the Dessel Implement and Auto Company in Ossian. He then worked many successful years with the Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company. 

Bill was a very spiritual man. He served as Eucharistic minister and lector at church. He belonged to three prayer groups: God’s Beautiful Children, Tri State Ministries and Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International. He and Elsie attended a six-week spiritual directors’ training at Pecos Monastery in Pecos, N.M.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 70 years. He was also a secretary for many years for the Ossian Fire Department, Ossian Senior Hospice Board, Tri State Ministries as well as DeSales Holy Name Society.

Bill and Elsie volunteered at the Ossian Senior Hospice and Winneshiek County Memorial Hospital Hospice. They helped sponsor Vietnamese families during the 70’s, and sponsored a Filipino child, Ivie Salmazan, now age 12, through the St. Vincent Foundation for Children and Aging in Manila, Philippines. 

Bill is survived by his children, Nancy Burke of Lake Zurich, Ill., Richard (Mary) Dessel of Lake Elmo, Minn., Thomas (Kymm) Dessel of Postville, Peter Dessel of Ossian, Lorna (Brian) Rothmeyer of Ossian, Marguerite (Phil) Costigan of Caledonia, Minn., Jeannie (Paul) Frana of Calmar, and Susan (Robert) Schmitt of Norwood, Minn., and one daughter-in-law, Elaine Dessel of Winston-Salem, N.C.; 18 grandchildren, Anna, Evan, Justin, Heather, Corey, Dylan (Cassie), James (Kim), Michelle, Bobbi (Troy), Charles, Samuel, James, Nathanial, Joseph, Andrew (Molly), Theresa, Daniel and Alex; eight great-grandchildren, Jordan, Morgan, Hope, Haylee, Autumn, Aiden, Brady and Maya; three sisters-in-law, Sr. Tekakwitha “Germaine” Hemesath of Waltham, Mass., Colette McVaney of Omaha, Neb., and Karen Hemesath of Castalia; two brothers-in-law, Dr. Carl (Jeanie) Hemesath of Bonita, Calif. and Greg Hemesath of Louisville, Ky. and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Elsie in 2010; son, Frank in 2003; parents, Henry and Frances (Lesser) Dessel; brother, Dr. Bert and wife, Mary Dessel; five sisters, Cleone and husband, Ernest Johnstone, Sr. Francis Joseph “Marcie” Dessel, Elsye and husband, John Beaumont-Haynes, Mary Frances and husband, Ed Clark and Ione Dessel (in infancy), grandson, Josh Guyer, father and mother-in-law, John and Iola (Scheidelmantel) Hemesath, two sisters-in-law, Bernice “Bonnie” and husband, Mark Tressel, Irma and Don Hanken, two brothers-in-law, Don McVaney and Jack Hemesath and three nephews, John Charles Dessel, Martin Tressel and Darren Hemesath.  

Jeffrey Uhlenhake

Jeffrey Uhlenhake, 52, Ossian, died Tuesday, March 11, 2014, at his home near Ossian, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 14, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Ossian with Steve Walvatne and Victor Collins as officiants.

Interment was held at Hillside Cemetery in Ossian.

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

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

Jeffrey Joseph, the son of Raymond and Kathryn (Bullerman) Uhlenhake, was born Nov. 17, 1961, at the Decorah Hospital. He graduated from South Winneshiek High School in 1980. He attended the automotive mechanic program at NITI in Calmar. 

He enjoyed farming the family farm as well as custom farm work. Jeff was united in marriage with Nancy Hageman on June 7, 1986 in Ossian. To this union four children were born, Bryan, Travis, Julie, and Rachel. He cherished the time he spent with his family.

Jeff was born again on Sept. 20, 1996, while pondering Romans 5:6.  Jeff was received into fellowship at the West Union Gospel Hall, West Union, and was in happy fellowship with the Christians there until he went to be with his Lord.

He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Uhlenhake, in 2000.   

Jeff is survived by his loving wife of twenty-seven years, Nancy of Ossian; his two sons, Bryan (Sheila) Uhlenhake of Sumner; and Travis Uhlenhake of Ossian; his two daughters, Julie and Rachel Uhlenhake of Ossian; his special granddaughter, Emma Uhlenhake of Sumner; his mother, Kathryn Uhlenhake of Ossian; three sisters, Alice (Bill) McKim of Streator, Ill.; Lois (Dave) Sims of Palm Bay, Fla.; and Evy (Robert) Matt of Mount Vernon; one brother, Art Uhlenhake of Ossian; and his father and mother-in-law, Delbert J. and Mary Ann Hageman of Ossian.

Ernest T. Halverson

Ernest T. Halverson, 97, resident of North Riverside for 62 years, passed away Monday, March 10, 2014, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 17, at Ascension Lutheran Church in Riverside, Ill. Entombment was in the Woodlawn Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the DAV Chapter 47, 407 159th St., Calumet City, IL 60409 or Ascension Lutheran Church, 400 Nuttall Rd, Riverside, IL 60546. For more information call (708) 442-8500 or visit www.woodlawnchicago.com.

He served in the US Army during WWII for 39 months. He was stationed overseas in Europe and received six Bronze Star Medals and a Good Conduct Medal. He retired from ARA Services in Chicago as a salesman.

Ernest was a life member of VFW Post 6869 since 1945 and was Commander from 1990-1991. He served as the VFW National Deputy Chief of Staff from 1993-1994 and the VFW color guard captain. He was a proud member and past Commander of Disabled American Veterans Chapter 22 & Chapter 47. He was a District Executive Committee member for the DAV.

He was a member of the loyal order of Moose for over 50 years. He belonged to the Sons of Norway, Amvets, Combined Veterans’ Association of Chicago and served on the village’s Zoning Board of Appeals. He was active with the Brookfield Zoo, North Riverside Golden Agers, the Recreation Board and Riverside Fishing Club. He was a Boy Scout of America Scout Master and the North Riverside block captain who began the neighborhood watch program.

Ernest was a member of Ascension Lutheran Church where he served as a treasurer and Deacon. He was the first recipient in North Riverside of the Cook County Sheriff's Senior Medal of Honor Award.

He was the beloved husband of the late Sophie, nee Sukach; loving father of Robert (Linda) Halverson and Sandra (Melvin) Swan; cherished grandfather of David (Kate) Halverson, Jennifer (Chris) Toomer, and Cali Marie Swan; great-grandfather of Jack, Leah, Ryan, and Max Halverson, and Carson and Hadan Toomer; brother of Myrtle (the late Arnold) Nesset and the late Victor (the late Pearl).

Edna Hassler

Edna M. Hassler, 101, of Oelwein, Iowa, died Monday evening, January 13, 2014, at Grandview Health Care Center in Oelwein.

Memorial Service: 11:00 A.M. Saturday, April 5, 2014 at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein with Rev. Charis Combs-Lay officiating.

Visitation 10:00 A.M. to service time on Saturday at the funeral home.

Interment: Was held on January 17, 2014 at West Union Cemetery, West Union, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Christ United Presbyterian Church, Oelwein.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

Edna Marian Olesen was born December 5, 1912, the third child of Maurice and Magalena (Sorensen) Olesen in Windsor Township, Iowa.  She walked across the fields to grade school, the same school attended by her father.  She rode her pony three miles to West Union High School during good weather and stayed with her aunt, Sena and uncle, Peter Olesen in town during inclement weather.  She married Robert Lincoln Ash on September 19, 1931 at Galena, Illinois.  They moved from West Union to Oelwein in 1937, where they raised their two children.  Her husband operated the First Avenue Garage.  They were divorced in 1957.  She married Richard E. Hassler in 1962 and they divorced in 1968.  Edna was active in the Presbyterian Church and Sunday school.  She participated in women’s circles, assisting with funeral and church dinners.   She was a member of Eastern Star.  Edna was an avid bridge player belonging to multiple bridge clubs.  She still played occasionally at the nursing home.  She loved her yard and garden, maintaining and living in her home for over 50 years.  Until she stopped driving, she drove her automobile to visit her son in Illinois and her relatives across northeast Iowa.  Edna was an avid reader all her life.  She loved to walk and continued walking daily at the nursing home.  She was loved by all for her sense of humor and uplifting spirit.

Edna is survived by her son, Robert E. (Sharon Linder) Ash of Rockford, Illinois; daughter, Geraldine M. (Kenneth) Frisch of Oelwein; 5 grandchildren, Robert L. Ash of Naperville, Illinois, Georjan Ash Jones of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, William C. Ash of Naperville, Illinois, Cynthia Frisch Sauerbrei of Readlyn, and Laura Frisch Esch of Independence; 5 great grandchildren, Brian B. Ash, Colin J. Ash, Samuel E. Adams, Wyatt D. Adams and Courtney Sauerbrei Buss; and 1 great-great grandchild, Bentley Buss.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and 2 brothers, Harry and George Olesen.         14u14

Chuck Custer

Charles W. “Chuck” Custer, 88, of Randalia, Iowa died on Wednesday morning, March 26, 2014 at Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union.

Memorial Service: 2:00 P.M. Saturday, March 29, 2014 at the Randalia United Methodist Church in Randalia with Rev. Johnny Tucker officiating. 

Military Honors by the Fayette American Legion Post #339.

Visitation: 1:00 P.M. to service time on Saturday at the church.

Inurnment: will be at a later date in Dunham Grove Cemetery, Randalia.

A memorial fund has been established in his name.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

The Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Maynard is assisting the family.

Charles Wilbur Custer was born January 11, 1926 in Belle Plaine, Iowa the son of Frank and Lula Ann (Ritchie) Custer.  He attended high school in Belle Plaine and later received his GED.  He proudly served in the United States Navy during WWII.  On August 21, 1949, he was united in marriage to Merna Patricia Turner at Ottumwa, Iowa.  Chuck and Pat farmed in the Randalia area.  He was an active member of the Randalia United Methodist Church and Fayette American Legion Post #339.  Chuck served as Assistant Scout Master of Troop 74 of Maynard.  He was proud to be included in the Belle Plaine class of 1944 and looked forward to getting together with them every three months. Chuck enjoyed gardening, woodworking, camping and baking.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Pat Custer of Randalia;

son, Mark (Kandi) Custer of Sioux City; daughter, Marcia Custer of Elko, Minnesota; 3 grandchildren, Megan, Alissa and Nicholes Hernandez;  brother-in-law, Robert Ware of Cedar Rapids; sister-in-law, Millie Custer of Dallas, Texas; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 7 brothers, Ray, Howard, Dale, Lester, Kenny, John and Frank; and 2 sisters, Grace Hunt and Louise Ware.         14u14

Mary Barnes

Mary Josephine Barnes, 97, a resident of Rock Ridge Care Center, Shellsburg, IA, died there on Wednesday, March 26, 2014. Funeral Mass will be held at All Saints Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids, on Friday, April 4, at 10:30 a.m., by Father Jack Flaherty. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the Church. Interment will be held at a later date at St. Francis of Assisi Columbarium in Fairfield Glade, TN.

Survivors include her sons, James K. “Jeff” (Cheryl) Barnes of Cedar Rapids, IA, Major Richard J. (Ardith) Barnes USMC-RET of Clermont, IA, and Edward M. (Virginia) Barnes of Cedar Rapid, IA; 11 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Agnes (Norman) Swensen of Nevada, IA, and Joseph E. (Margaret) Kaprich of Centerville, IA; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother, George (Marilyn) Kaprich, and baby brother, Joseph William.

Mary was born March 30, 1916, on the family farm near Rathbun, IA, the daughter of Joseph and Josephine (Mourek) Kaprich. She married James F. Barnes on January 26, 1936, in Milan, MO. Mary was a Roman Catholic and involved in numerous parish activities in years past. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, cooking, and sewing. Mary was very creative and a great grandmother.

Special thanks go to the entire Rock Ridge staff for their dedicated care and many, many acts of kindness.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family in her memory.

Please sign the online guestbook for Mary at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.      

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