Robert Earl Brown

Robert Earl Brown was born in rural Jackson Township of Guthrie County, Iowa on May 20, 1928. His parents were Rex and Lovina (Tam) Brown. The oldest of five children, he had three brothers Harold LaVerne (Elaine) of Indianola, Iowa, Carroll Dean (Ruth) of Gambrills, Maryland, Lloyd Alvin (Lila) of Marana, Arizona, and a sister, Marjorie Juanita (Warren) Shade of Paris, Arkansas.

He grew up in the rural area near Linden, Iowa and attended all 12 years of school being graduated from Linden High School. He attended Central College at Pella, Iowa and worked at the Central Park Café where he met Joyce Verniece Den Adel and was united to her in marriage on June 7, 1949. To this union were born four children: Charm Faith (John) Smith of Tabor, Iowa, Starr Tiara (Doyle) Scott of Winterset, Iowa, Chele Diahn (Scott) Garder of Blair, Nebraska, and Shawn Robin (Angela) of Bloomington, Minnesota.

After marriage, Bob worked in various businesses in Pella for two years and then took a job with an independent grocer for three years. In 1952 he joined National Biscuit Company as a salesman. In 1955 he was hired by Hy-Vee Food Stores and stayed with them for 32 years until his retirement in 1987. He started in Bethany, Missouri, went to Corning, Iowa in 1958 as a market manager and later became the assistant manager, and moved to Villisca in 1961 as the store manager. He finished his career in Clarinda.

Bob was an active community member being involved in multiple things and serving as a member and officer of many organizations including the Villisca Development Corporation, Villisca Housing Board, Villisca Chamber of Commerce, Villisca Commercial Club, Villisca Library Board, Villisca City Council, Villisca Presbyterian Church where he resurrected and directed the Bell Choir, Clarinda Presbyterian Church, and was the secretary/treasurer and leading winner of the Saturday Morning Pea Poker Club. He was instrumental in the building of the Villisca Good Samaritan center, was on its board for many years, and after retirement was a volunteer van driver. He was selected as an Honorary Chapter Farmer by the Villisca FFA and was honored as the Villisca Citizen of the Year in 1990. In addition to these activities, his favorite past times were spent with his family and friends as well as traveling, cooking, woodworking, and doing carpentry. His grandkids will always remember his Grandpa Brown breakfasts.

Bob passed away at Good Samaritan Center in Villisca, Iowa on January 21, 2009 at the age of 80.

In death he has rejoined his wife, father, mother, brothers Dean and Lloyd, and brother-in-law Warren. His children, twelve grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren survive him.

Funeral services were held at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Clarinda on Saturday, January 24, 2009 with Pastor Bob Keefer officiating. Internment was at the Villisca Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Villisca Good Samaritan Staff Scholarship Endowment Fund in c/o Starr Scott, 1711 Patricia Acres Winterset, IA 50273.

William Lee Fletcher

William Lee Fletcher was born in Taylor County, Iowa near Siam on April 1, 1939, the son of Wilbur Remind and Eathel Nevela (Fleming) Fletcher. Bill grew up in the New Market, Iowa area where he attended schools. Bill passed away January 23, 2009 at the Red Oak Hospital.

After his formal schooling, he worked for the Shorty McCoy farm for several years. He was married to Linda Sparks for fourteen years. Bill drove for the Peerless Laundry route for ten years. In April of 1975, he started work at NSK, where he remained until retiring in August 2002.
He and companion Kathy Solt Racine had lived in Villisca for twenty five years. Most recently Bill had lived in Villisca, with his special friend Pat Reynolds, for the past three years. Bill liked the farm all of his life and was especially fond of horses.

Surviving are his daughter, Heather Orr and husband Glenn of Creston; four grandchildren, Kimberly, Hallie, Jenna, and Brett; one sister, Ona Wyleen Thompson and husband Max of Mountain Home, Arkansas; and nieces and nephews; Joyce Larson and husband Lyndal of New Market, Iowa, Vickie Crosby and husband Rex of Clarinda, Iowa, Lisa Foster and husband Dusty of Shambaugh, Iowa, and Ronnie Fletcher and wife Kelly of Villisca, Iowa; several grand nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents, one brother Carl Fletcher; and one sister, Barbara Moses.
Funeral services for William Lee Fletcher were held10:00 a.m., January 28, 2009 at the Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa, with interment at the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation was held at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.. The Tradition of Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa has served the family.

Virginia Geraldine Waldron

Virginia Geraldine Waldron, the daughter of Noland O. and Virginia C. (Spencer) Wooden, was born May 9, 1918, in Lee's Summit, Missouri, and passed away Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa.

Virginia grew up in the Shenandoah area where she attended school. She was united in marriage to George Waldron on May 9, 1934 in Shenandoah, Iowa. They farmed all of their married life in the Page and Taylor County area. Virginia also enjoyed gardening, both, flowers and vegetables. She spent many hours canning her produce from her gardens. She baked bread, churned her own butter, and raised and dressed chickens. Virginia loved to have fun playing games including cards and enjoyed time with her family and especially the grandchildren. She enjoyed playing the piano by ear and spent many hours fishing with George. Holidays were always a special time to the family as Virginia always celebrated and loved to have fun. She was a faithful woman who spent many hours every day reading her Bible and praying for others. She was a blessing to all who knew her.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband: George on February 23, 2002; her sons: Phillip, Gary, Robert, and Tommy Waldron; and sisters: Ralphena Carlson and Betty Wilson.

Survivors include her children: Noladean Waldron of Villisca, Iowa; Marian Thomas and husband Dale of Coin, Iowa; James Waldron and wife Sherry of Villisca; Sandra Knizley and husband Eric of Coin; William Waldron and wife Vicki of Ft. Scott, Kansas; and John Thomas of Cameron, Missouri; 18 grandchildren; 43 great grandchildren; and 11 great great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 11 AM Monday, January 19, 2009 at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah with Rev. Don Barnett officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 7-8 PM Sunday, January 18, 2009 at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel.

Services are entrusted to the Kirsch Funeral Chapel of Shenandoah, Iowa.

Opal M. Gray

Opal M. Gray, 94, formerly of Villisca, died Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 in Higginsville, Missouri. Opal was born Oct 7th, 1914 to John S. Williams and Myrtle Leona Williams near Carson, in Pottawattamie County, Iowa. She was married to Carroll James Gray in Clarinda, Iowa on Aug 3rd, 1935. She was the mother of two, Marlyn Dean and Norma Jean (Doan), who gave her three grandchildren each.

Opal spent most of her adult life farming in southwest Iowa near the towns of Guss, Strand and Villisca. She also worked at the Milligan's cafe and the Green Lantern cafe in Villisca.

When they retired from farming, her and her husband lived in Villisca and enjoyed traveling and fishing. After losing her husband she moved to senior apartments in Corning. She later moved to an assisted living and care center in Higginsville, Missouri were she died of natural causes.

She enjoyed cooking, sewing, and gardening, but, her greatest love was her family. She devoted her life to her husband, children and grandchildren making numerous sacrifices of her own for us. We would never want for anything, be it food, clothing, or something as simple as a hug, as it was already there. She was the mother, and grandmother, that everyone should have. She will be deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, on Aug 28th, 1979; her sister Ruth Holmes on Oct 21st, 1989; her daughter Norma Jean (Charles) on May 1st, 2001; and her son Marlyn (Norma) on Sep 19th, 2001.

Survivors include her sister Wilma Walters (Harold) of Prescott; six grandchildren; Mike Gray (Ellen), Tim Gray (Loretta), Deborah (Doan) Craig (Thomas), Tammy (Doan) Boyer, Jeff Doan (Benita) and Russell Gray (Sherry); and 10 great-grandchildren.

Clarence Franklin Strain

Clarence Franklin Strain age 89 years of Omaha, NE, formerly of Nodaway, IA
WWII Veteran, Omaha Beach D-Day
Preceded in death by wife Evelyn
Survived by Daughters & sons-in-law: Janet & Bill Dewey, Omaha, NE
Jeanne & Tony Maida, Omaha, NE
Jeanette & Ron Schacht, Omaha, Ne
Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren, other relatives & friends
Service Wed. Dec. 31, 2008 at the Kahler-Dolce Mortuary, Papillion, NE
Interment: Cedar Dale Cemetery, Papillion, NE
Memorials to Alzheimers Association
Full military honors

Dorothy I. Vannausdle

Dorothy I. Vannausdle, age 93, of Red Oak, Iowa formerly of Morton Mills, Iowa passed away Monday, December 29, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Care Center after an extended illness. Dorothy Irene Vannausdle was born January 27, 1915 in Emerson, Iowa the daughter of Ivan and Ila (Gilmore) Shook. She graduated as Valedictorian from Emerson High School in 1933. Dorothy was united in marriage to Harold Vannausdle on October 22, 1933 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. They farmed near Emerson and Stennett moving to Morton Mills in 1946 also farming. Harold and Dorothy moved into Morton Mills in 1970 and Harold preceded her in death in 1983. Dorothy has been a resident of the Good Samaritan Care Center since 1995. Dorothy was involved in the Morton Mills Ladies Aid and many neighborhood clubs. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren, her cats, and enjoyed working in her flowers.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Harold on October 2, 1983; son: Duane Vannausdle on February 11, 1995; and sister: Evelyn Ungry. Survivors include her daughter: Donna Finnell of Des Moines, Iowa; daughter-in-law: Shirley Vannausdle of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren: Debbie Bruns and husband George of St. Louis, Missouri; Cyndie Sorensen of Cape Coral, Florida; Bill Finnell of Littleton, Colorado; Brenda Vanderneck and husband Vince of West Des Moines, Iowa; Chris Vannausdle and wife Brenda of Villisca; and Ray Vannausdle of Huxley, Iowa; 11 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.

Graveside funeral services will be held 11 AM Monday, January 5, 2009 at the Emerson, Iowa Cemetery. Visitation with the family will start at 9 AM, Monday, January 5, 2009 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak and we will go to the cemetery in procession.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Harry James Milligan

Harry James Milligan, son of Lonnie Milligan and Faye Van Alstine Milligan was born June 26, 1918 in Taylor County, Iowa and passed away December 2, 2008 at the age of 90 years and five months. Jim grew up in the Guss vicinity and attended country schools there.

He entered the U.S. Army August 20, 1942 and had his basic training at Fort Robinson in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was a T5 and a member of the 12th Calvary. After basic training he boarded a troop ship on May 29, 1943 and headed for action in the Pacific. He was in Brisbane, Australia then to several island groups in the Western Pacific: Bismarck Archipelago, New Guinea, Philippine islands of Luzon, and began ground combat on Leyte June 18, 1943. He earned a combat infantry badge. Jim served two and one-half years overseas and was discharged December 15, 1945.

Following service he worked in the family restaurant (Milligan's Cafe) in Villisca from 1945-1960 and was a Villisca school bus driver for 15 years.

In June 1959 he married Opal Quiggle Ankeny. They made their home in Villisca. He was employed by the city of Villisca for 23 years before his retirement.

He was a member of: The Villisca Fire Department for 45 years, American Legion, VFW since 1945. He served many years on the Villisca Municipal Power Plant Board of Trustees, and served on the Villisca Housing Board.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant sister, and beloved wife, Opal, January 2, 1999.
He is survived by a sister, Treva Milligan of Chicago, IL, cousins and a host of friends.
Services were held Saturday, December 6, 2008 at Wolfe Funeral Home with Rev. Gordon Scott officiating. Interment will be at Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to Villisca Fire Department or the Villisca Ambulance. Wolfe Funeral Home served the family.

Luella Arlene Neal Kernen

Luella Arlene (Neal) Kernen was born April 17, 1919, the daughter of Albert and Effie (Sparger) Neal in Villisca, Iowa, and entered into rest on November 22, 2008, at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa.

She married Theron Kernen on February 15, 1939. Two children were born to this union – Albert William Kernen and Kathryn Ann (Kernen) Bross

Luella left school after the 8th grade but acquired her GED later in life. Luella worked in different businesses in the Villisca area including Winter’s Clothing Store, Helen Lorene Shop, Honeyman Drug Store and Stoner Drug Store from 1961 to 1992 when she retired. She was a member of the Advent Christian Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two brothers – Dennis Neal and James Neal, four sisters – Betty Larson, Ruth Nelson, Mary Farrens, and an infant sister Francis.

She is survived by her son Bill and his wife Leona Kernen of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter Kathryn and husband Richard Bross of Villisca, Iowa; brother Bob and wife Evelyn Neal of Villisca, Iowa; sister Lois Bergren of Red Oak, Iowa; sisters-in-law Lorene Neal of Villisca, Iowa, and Donna Davidson of Waverly, Iowa; six grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, and three great, great grandchildren.

Marjorie Jean Schaffer

Marjorie Jean Schaffer, the daughter of Walter S. and Florence M. (Burley) Maxwell, was born July 16, 1931 on a farm near Guss, Iowa. She died on Friday, November 28, 2008 at Mercy Hospital, Council Bluffs, Iowa at the age of 77 years, 4 months and 12 days.

Jean was raised in the Guss and Villisca areas. She was united in marriage to Cecil Schaffer on June 24, 1947 at Corning, Iowa. Jean and Cecil moved to Red Oak in l955. She worked for Murphy Memorial Hospital and Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak for 41 years. Jean was preceded in death by her parents and husband; Cecil on December 25, 2000.

Jean is survived by her son: Steven Schaffer of Imogene, IA; daughter: Norma Schaffer of Omaha, NE; twin sister: Joan Blume of Clarinda, IA; two brothers: Jay Maxwell of Alamosa, CO; and Gerald Maxwell of Villisca, IA; other relatives and friends.

Jean's wishes were to be cremated and a private family interment will be held at a later date in Evergreen Cemetery, Red Oak, Iowa.

A memorial is being established in Jean's name. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com. Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Larry D. Baker

Larry D. Baker, 77, of Anacortes, died on Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at the family home in Anacortes. He was born on July 17, 1931 in Villisca, Iowa, the son of Carl & Viola (Friedrich) Baker.

Larry lived in the Anacortes area in the 1940’s and graduated from Anacortes High School in 1948. After working at numerous jobs around Anacortes he started to work at Shell Oil Company in 1955 and moved back to Anacortes for good. Larry and his wife lived in the Whistle Lake area and in 1968 he joined the Carpenters Union and made a career change to carpentry. In 1974 he started his own building contracting business and built numerous homes around the Anacortes area before retiring in 1995.

Larry was a very loving father and husband and especially enjoyed spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Carl & Viola Baker and a brother, William Baker.

Larry is survived by his wife, Donna; 2 sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas L. & Teresa Baker and Kenneth A. & Cindi Baker; 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Jill & Loren McLaughlin and Kim Blankenship & Don Norman; grandchildren Thomas R. Baker, Brett R. Baker, Cody A. Gummerman, Wesley A. Gummerman, Racheal M. Baker, Jessica L. Baker, Adam J. Blankenship and Alison D. Blankenship; great-grandchildren Candice, Ranie, & Nevaeh; a brother and sister-in-law, Jim & Verna Baker & family; a sister and brother-in-law, Karen & Nick Dubuque & family and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2008 at Evans Funeral Chapel in Anacortes.. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., Anacortes, WA and the San Juan Islands. To share memories of Larry, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com.

Kathryn Valora Brenton Olson

Kathryn Valora (Brenton) Olson was born June 5, 1918, in Montgomery County north of Villisca, Iowa, the daughter of Oliver S. Brenton and Goldie K. Swallow Brenton.

She attended Grub Bridge Country School and graduated from Villisca High School in the class of 1936. She taught at the Grub Bridge Country School for one year. On December 18, 1937, she married Ernie Olson in Maryville, Missouri. She was a homemaker anywhere she and Ernie farmed in Montgomery and Adams counties. She faithfully attended Strand Evangelical Lutheran Church from the time of her marriage to Ernie. Two children were born to this union: son Jim (Kay) Olson and daughter Saundra (Dick) Brown.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Ernie in 1993; her brothers, sisters & in-laws: Darlene (Virgil) Hayes, Carol (Earl) Scott, Denny (Vera) Brenton, Agnes (Orville) Mitchell, Lucille (Dean) King, John (Violet) Brenton, Lyle (Mable) Brenton, and Floyd Guthrie.

She is survived by her children: Jim (Kay) Olson of Corning and Saundra (Dick) Brown of Wall Lake; 6 grandchildren: Kevin Olson of Corning, Brenda (John) McElwain of Villisca, LuAnn (Chris) Mead of Glenwood, Robin Andersen of Wall Lake, Roger (Wendi) Brown of Council Bluffs, Scott (Michelle) Brown of Underwood; 2 step granddaughters: Karen (Phil) Kinser of Corning and Angie (Tony) Hardisty of Corning; 11 great grandchildren; 11 step great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; 2 step great-great grandchildren; baby sister Fern Guthrie of Oakdale, California; special niece (caregiver) Betty Russell of Corning; numerous nieces and nephews and friends.

Joyce Vernice Brown

Joyce Vernice Brown was born in Marion County, Iowa near Pella on October 13, 1928 the daughter of William and Johanna (Van Englehoven) Den Adel.

She grew up near Pella where she attended European #1 (Bell School) nearby. While working in Pella she met Robert Earl Brown and was united in marriage on June 7, 1949 in Sheldon, Iowa. After their marriage they lived in Pella, Iowa, Ottumwa, Iowa, Maryville, Missouri and Bethany, Missouri, Corning, Iowa, and Villisca, Iowa as Bob was associated with Hy-Vee Food Stores. She was a priority homemaker as well as a bookkeeper for Villisca Hy-Vee, and a receptionist in the office of Dr. James Wyatt in Red Oak, Iowa. She served on the Villisca Pre-School Board, on the Interchurch Council, was a Church Deacon and a Sunday School Teacher, a longtime and honored member of the Presbyterian Women's Association, a confirmation mentor, and also sang in the choir and played in the Bell Choir. Additionally, she was a longtime volunteer hairdresser at the Good Samaritan Center. As a breast cancer survivor, she was an honorary co-chair for Montgomery County Relay for Life in 2008, as well as a longtime participant in various breast groups and projects. In addition to these activities, her favorite past times were spent with her family and friends as well as traveling, being involved in music, cooking, and doing many crafts including crocheting. Joyce died October 23, 2008 at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

In death she rejoined her father, mother, and brother-in-law, Peter Fazio.
Surviving are her husband Bob of Villisca; four children: Charm Faith Smith and husband John of Treynor, Iowa, Starr Tiara Scott and husband Doyle of Winterset, Iowa, Chele Diahn Garder and husband Scott of Blair, Nebraska, and Shawn Robin Brown and wife Angela of Bloomington, Minnesota; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in law, Donald Den Adel and wife Cornelia of Pella, Iowa, Ruth Fazio of Carmel, Indiana, and Fern Uitermarkt and husband Ken of Pella, Iowa; nieces and nephews

Funeral Services for Joyce Vernice Brown were 1:30 p.m. October 26, 2008 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church of Clarinda, Iowa. Lunch and Fellowship at the Church immediately following the service.With Interment at the Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca, Iowa has served the family.

Beryl Eugene Beery

Beryl Eugene Beery was born February 26, 1927 to Ray Calhoon and Netha Marie (Bair) Beery on a farm near College Springs, Iowa. He graduated Amity High School, College Springs, and served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Following his service in the military he returned to Iowa and farmed and was a commercial ground applicator. He also did pest control the last ten years. Beryl was an outdoorsman and especially enjoyed fishing.

Beryl passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 81. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Wendell, and infant sister.

He is survived by his children: son, Milo Beery and wife Tammie of Clarinda and daughter, Lisa L. Rogers of Evergreen, Colorado; grandchildren Mac Drake and husband Nick and their son Dominic David Drake; and Logan Rogers; Colton Beery, Colin Beery, and Jeremy Beery and wife Robin and their daughter, Piper Lynn Beery; brother Bob Beery and wife Edith of Clarinda, Iowa; and sister-in-law Phyllis Beery, Clarinda; significant other, Marlene Teply of Diagonal, Iowa; nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Funeral Services were held 2:00 p.m. Saturday October 25, 2008 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa, with Interment at Maple Hill Cemetery, College Springs, Iowa. Military rites were given by Clarinda American Legion Sergy Post #98. The Tradition of Walker-Merrick Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa, has served the family.

Carol Jean Greenfield Lanz

Carol Jean Greenfield was born February 25, 1941, the daughter of Paul “Ted” and Leta Beavers Greenfield in Villisca, Iowa. She grew up in the Villisca area where she attended rural schools including the Fryer school for one year and the Hazel Dell Washington #8 at Tenville through the eighth grade. She then attended Villisca High School through her sophomore year. After her formal schooling she worked at various jobs. She married Larry Lenz on February 7, 1958, in St. Joseph, MO. They celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary earlier this year. To this union four children were born: Deborah, Diana, Kelly, & Scot.

Jean and Larry operated a bar in Corning. She also worked at manufacturing plants in Red Oak and Corning for several years. She was a bartender at the Red Bull and Joe’s Tavern in Corning and she operated a taxi, transporting NFO officials to and from the Des Moines airport when the NFO National Headquarters was located in Corning.

She enjoyed playing cards and was a member of several card clubs over the years. She enjoyed her flowers and was an avid reader. She especially loved caring for her grandchildren and watching them grow.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Leta Greenfield, son Scot Lenz, and step-daughter Cindy Grause.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband Larry Lenz, her three daughters: Deborah Cooney and fiancé Mark Foster of Atchison, KS, Diana Scott and husband Kurt of Corning, Kelly McMullen and husband Frank of Otoe, NE; step-daughter Connie Dowling and husband Reed of West Des Moines; daughter-in-law Cheryl of Billings, MT; step son-in-law Dan Grause of Nevada; 15 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren;brother Joe Greenfield and wife Marjorie of Red Oak; sister Janet Haley and husband Tom of Nodaway; mother-in-law Veta Beal of Corning; nieces; nephews; cousins; and close friends.

Jean died Wednesday , September 24, 2008, in Omaha, NE. Her funeral services were held Saturday, September 27, 2008, at the Wolfe Funeral Home with burial in the Arlington Cemetery of rural Villisca. Rev. Ken Rummer officiating. Memorial may be made to the family.

Skyler John Dickey

Funeral services for Skyler John Dickey will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, October 2, 2008, at the Villisca United Methodist Church with internment following at Arlington Cemetery.

Sklyer was born August 20, 1984, in Corning, IA, the son of Bryan and LuCinda Baldwin Dickey. He grew up in the Nodaway area residing there until one year ago. Skyler attended school in Villisca graduating in the class of 2003. He then attended Iowa Western Community College in Clarinda for one year. He had worked at the Villisca Detail Center, CDS Global in Red Oak, and was currently employed at the Villisca Municipal Power Plant.

Skyler was fond of all racing including stock cars, ATV's, motorcycles, and snow mobiles. He had been an official at the Adams County Speedway in Corning.

He was active in school activities especially football, was an avid Kansas City Chief fan, and Iowa Hawkeye fan. He also played on the area flag football team.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers Marvin "PeeWee" Baldwin and Robert John Dickey and 1 step-sister Mary Anne Marsh.

Survivors include his mother LuCinda Dickey of Villisca; his father and step-mother Bryan and Angela Dickey of Villisca; his sister Deanna Brown and husband Chris of Omaha; step-brothers Eric Marsh of Villisca and Cody Marsh of Tabor; niece Riley Marsh and nephew Aidan Marsh of Villisca; grandmothers Gloria Baldwin of Nodaway, and Roberta Dickey of Villisca, grandparents Oliver and Mary Jo Herzberg of Villisca; uncle Cliff Baldwin and wife Donelle and their son Evan Baldwin of Nodaway; and other aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca was in charge of arrangements.

Marcella Rae (Greenfield) Reser

Marcella Rae (Greenfield) Reser, 59 of Denver, Colorado, formerly of Villisca, Iowa, died August 20, 2008, in Denver. Marcella was born March 18, 1949, in Clarinda the daughter of Murl and Reva (Cooney) Greenfield. She graduated from high school in 1967. She had most recently been employed as a secretary for the City and County of Denver Assessor’s office in Denver, Colorado. Marcella enjoyed creating colorful paintings that have been seen by many in the Denver area.

Marcella was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her sister Marilyn & husband Alan Gridley of Villisca, IA; nieces: Trudy and husband Steve Swenson of Villisca, IA, Mindy Gridley-Laycock and husband Rob of Ankeny, IA, Lisa Huppe and husband Jean-Francois of Canada; nephew: Kennon & wife Katie Gunderman of Minnesota; grand nieces and nephews: Jackson, Cole, Felix, Delilah, and Penelope.

Robert C. WIlliams

Richard C. Williams, 68, of Villisca, Iowa, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2008, at his home. Richard Charles Williams was born on March 18, 1940, in rural Adams County near Brook, Iowa, the son of Walter Samuel Williams and Lucile (Smith) Williams. He attended school in Nodaway graduating in 1958. He joined the Army in 1959 serving as an Artillery Surveyor. He also trained as a driver, mechanic, and parachutist. He was honorably discharged in 1962. He farmed and did carpentry work as well as driving a school but for the Villisca Community Schools.

Richard Married Deloris Akers on September 18, 1965, at the Corning Methodist Church in Corning, Iowa. They were blessed with three children; Charles, Kathy, and Thomas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Walter Williams Jr. and his sister Ardis Sepanak. He is survived by his wife Deloris of Villisca, IA; two sons: Charles (Claudia Schubert) Williams of Villisca, IA, and Thomas (Tricia) Williams of Corning, IA; daughter Kathy Marshall of Villisca, IA; one brother Jim (Priscilla) Williams of Villisca; seven grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Robert Chester Weil

Robert Chester Weil, 77, formerly of Clarinda, IA passed away on Friday, march 7, 2008 at the Iowa Veteran's Home in Marshalltown, IA after a short illness. Mr. Weil was born on Feb. 8, 1931 in Gravity, Iowa to Chester Harvey and Gertrude Belle (Akers) Weil. He was raised in Elliott and Villisca areas. He was a 1949 graduate of Villisca High School. On Feb. 19, 1950 he married Heraldine Marie Moore of Guss, IA. They moved to Clarinda shortly after marriage where Bob was employed at Berry's Poultry Farm, and Farmers Co-Op. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1951. Upon his return from the Army in 1952, he worked for Modem Cleaners. From '55-'58 he owned Bob's Conoco Station in Clarinda. From '58-'60 he was employed at the Coast to Coast Hardware Store. He began working at the Clarinda Hardware in 1960 and was employed there for eleven years. In 1966 he completed a home study course on locksmithing and opened his own business known as Bob's Repair Service. He repaired bicycles, lawn mowers, sewing machines and was the only locksmith in Clarinda for many years. In 1971, Mr. Weil began his employment with the Clarinda Community School System as a janitor and maintenance man. He worked for the schools until 1988 when he retired. He continued to operate Bob's Repair Service until 1995. Mr. & Mrs. Weil divorced in 1996 and Geraldine moved to the Marshalltown area in 1997. Bob moved to the Iowa Veteran's Home in July 2007 due to increasing health care needs and to be closer to his daughter, Denise, and her family in Marshalltown.

Survivors include his daughter, Denise Sowards and husband Kim of Marshalltown, one granddaughter, Crystal (Spinter) Schrader and her husband, Keith, of Cedar Falls, IA and one grandson, Austin Weil of Cedar Falls.

Preceding him in death were his father Chester in 1984, his brother, Ronald in 1992 and his mother Gertrude in 2003.

John "Lucky" W. Stalder

Graveside services for John "Lucky" W. Stalder, age 94, of Villisca, formerly of Corning, were held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, September 3, 2008, at the Methodist Grove Cemetery, southwest of Brooks, Iowa. Rev. Lauri Greenlee officiated.

John was born November 21, 1913, in Brooks, Iowa, son of James Clarence Stalder and Elsie Ethel Myer Stalder. He married Lolita Jo Denton-Huges on January 16, 1946, in Reno, Nevada. He was employed with Yancey Company, in Reno, for 33 years and served as Superintendent of Construction. John was a lifetime member of the Untied Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America, Local #971, in Reno.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lolita Jon on March 9, 1991 and son, Dennis James on October 4, 1992. He is survived by daughter-in-law, Janice Stalder of Copperas Cove, TX; sister, Ethelda Stillinger of Lenox, IA; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Memorials may be directed to the Brooks United Methodist Church or the Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center, Activities Department. On-line condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com. Perason-Coen-Beatty Family Funeral Services of Creston were in charge of arrangements.

Stanley Johnson

Funeral services for Stanley Johnson, 91, of Villisca, Iowa were held Saturday, September 20th, 2008, at 10:00AM at the Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca with interment in the Villisca Cemetery. Rev Sandra Wainwright Rossander officiating. Stanley died September 17th, 2008.

Stanley R. Johnson was born October 1st, 1916 in Montgomery County to Leslie R and Hazel Nelson Johnson. He grew up in Morton Mills, Iowa, a small community North of Villisca, Iowa, where his father and uncle purchased a grocery store when Stanley was 4 years old. After grade school in Morton Mills he attended Villisca High School, graduating in 1933. He worked as a farm hand until he and his father started farming in 1937.

In 1942 he enlisted in the Navy Reserves. He was a 3rd class petty officer serving on a heavy cruiser as a signalman. After an honorable discharge he returned home to farming and married Dorothe M. Kernen. The observed their 63rd wedding anniversary on December 3rd, 2007. After moving a few times, they purchased a farm Northeast of Villisca where they lived for 25 years. They then moved into Villisca where they resided until the time of his death.

During his farming years, Stanley was selected as one of the Master Swine producers of Iowa in 1954. He also served on the Soil and Conservation Board in Adams County and on the Nodaway School Board. He was a past Commander of Nodaway American Legion, receiving a 62-year consecutive member certificate in 2008. In 1963 Stanley was appointed Postmaster at the Nodaway Post Office, retiring from there in January 1st, 1982. Stanley was a great sports fan enjoying baseball in particular and playing that sport for several years after high school on area ball clubs.

He is survived by his wife Dorothe, daughter Jane Johnson of Kansas City, Missouri; son Bob Johnson and wife Sue of Omaha, Nebraska and daughter Ann Murphy of Marshalltown, Iowa; three grandchildren: Matt of San Francisco, California, Molly of Omaha, Nebraska and Staci of Marshalltown, Iowa; one sister Eloise Crowe of Red Oak, Iowa; two step brothers-in-law Kenneth Kernen and Henry Jr. Kernen; several nieces and nephews.

His parents and brother Merlin preceded him in death.

Robert Edwin Garey

Robert Edwin Garey, 85, of Columbia passed away September 23, 2008 at Boone Hospital Center after a short illness.

Visitation was from 5 to 7 pm Friday September 26, with memorial service following at Calvary Episcopal Church in Columbia. He made a Gift of Body to the University of Missouri so there will be no burial at this time.

Robert was born on December 24, 1922 in Villisca, Iowa to Ray and Opal Strain Garey. He married Gail Box in May 1982. He was self employed in farming and was a horse trainer before his retirement. He was an Army veteran and served in Germany during World War II.

He is survived by his wife Gail of the home, two sisters Dorothy Odson and husband Glenn of Corning, IA; Virginia Simet and husband Tom of Des Moines, IA; brother Bill Garey and wife Bonnie of Villisca, Iowa; son Ronald Garey of Crawford, NE; daughters Sharon Cotten and husband Randy of Holdenville, OK; Marcia Oman and husband Conrad of Wheatland WY; step-daughter Alyssa Sapp and husband Brian and granddaughter Brianna Sapp of Columbia. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Maxine Haffner, Pauline Wheeler and Lola Odson; and granddaughter Christina Sapp.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Ave, Miami, Fl 33136.

Cathy Susan "Susie" Bowling

Funeral services for Cathy Susan "Susie" Bowling, age 55 of Villisca, Iowa, who died Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at the Norman Regional Hospital, Norman, Oklahoma were held Monday, September 8, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa with Reverend Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with the family was held Sunday, September 7, 2008 in the afternoon from 3 to 5 at the Methodist Church in Villisca, Iowa. Burial was in the Arlington Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials can be directed to the First United Methodist Church in Villisca or the Clarinda Lutheran School. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Cathy Susan "Susie" Bowling was born January 2, 1953, in Enid, Oklahoma the daughter of Carl Bowling and Patsy (Huddleston) Bowling. Susie grew up attending school, graduating from the Villisca High School with the Class of 1971. She then attended one year of college at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri. Two children were born to bless her life, Stacie and Michael.

Susie was an avid Oklahoma fan. She enjoyed traveling and going to her winter home in Texas. She loved her dog "Patches" and enjoyed taking him with her on her trips. She was a wonderful grandmother to Jocie Rea and Kaden, and she always looked forward to spending time with them. Recently, she had been actively involved in planning the wedding of her son, Michael to his fiancé, Lydia Tang. Susie was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women in Villisca as well as a member of the CAH Home Care. She also enjoyed listening to country music.

Left to cherish Susie's memory are mother and step-father, Patsy and Ed Greenfield of Villisca; her two children, Stacie Van De Grift and husband Kirk and their children, Jocie Rea and Kaden all of Clarinda; Michael Strait and fiancé Lydia Tang of Villisca; and two brothers, Donnie Bowling and wife Bobby of Fayetteville, North Carolina; and Mike Bowling of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; five sisters, Carla Johnson of Claremore, Oklahoma; Shari Fulton and husband Lee of Nodaway; Marcia Sunderman and husband Byron of Villisca; Cindy Hoffman and husband Brad of Murphy, Texas; and Kim Savage of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and her loving dog "Patches"; along with many other relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Susie in death are her father, Carl Bowling and step-mother, Alberta Bowling.

Susie will be missed, her memory will live on and her presence will fill our hearts forever.

Sharon Ann Vianelli

Sharon Ann Vianelli was born May 1, 1945 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the daughter of Lloyd and Bonnie (Nance) Jackson. She passed away on Tuesday morning, August 26, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 63 years, 3 months and 25 days.

Sharon grew up in the Villisca area and graduated from Villisca High School in 1963. On August 27, 1977, she was united in marriage to Eugene Vianelli in Coin, Iowa. Sharon lived in California for ten years and in 1980 she and Eugene made their home outside of Essex, Iowa.

Sharon worked as a cashier for Pamida. She worked in the Shenandoah store until it closed. She then transferred to the Red Oak store and worked there until her health forced her to stop. Sharon loved to cook and in high school she won the Crisco Award. She was also an avid 4-H member growing up. Later in life she became a 4-H leader. Most of all, Sharon loved her family.

She was preceded in death by her father, Lloyd Jackson. Survivors include her husband Eugene, of Essex, Iowa; her mother, Bonnie Jackson of Coin, Iowa; her children, James Sunderman and his wife Amy of Glenwood, Iowa, Kevin Sunderman and his wife Susan of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Angela Cheers of Ortonville, Michigan; step-son, Gino Vianelli of Los Angeles, California; eight brothers and sisters, Janice Willett and her husband Donnie of Corning, Iowa, Jerry Jackson and his wife Susan of Henderson, Nevada, Bonnie Gray and her husband Seymour of Des Moines, Iowa, Connie Dake and her husband Jim of Des Moines, Iowa, Donald Jackson and his wife Phyllis of Storm Lake, Iowa, Mike Jackson of Villisca, Iowa, Randy Jackson and his wife Peggy of Villisca, Iowa, Merrie Jackson of Omaha, Nebraska; 10 grandchildren, Megan Sunderman, Kaileigh Jacobs, Sabrina Livermore, Dalton Campbell, Elijah Sunderman, Alexis Sunderman, Isabell Sunderman, Miranda Cheers, Ethan Cheers, Jared Cheers; along with many other relatives and friends.

Memorial services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 29, 2008 at the United Methodist Church in Coin, Iowa with Rev. James Buckhahn officiating. Burial was in the Blanchard Cemetery at Blanchard, Iowa. Visitation with the family present was held on Thursday evening, august 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah. Memorials were suggested to the Heartland Hospice in Red Oak, Iowa. To leave online remembrances or condolences with the family, go to www.kirschfuneral.com. The Kirsch Funeral Chapel of Shenandoah was in charge of arrangements.

Frances E. Findley

Frances E. Findley, of Pittsburg, PA., born in Villisca, Iowa, on March 8, 1919, passed away July 2, 2008.

Frances married the late Denzil Findley in 1936 and they moved to California in 1943. When he retired from U.S. Steel in the 1970’s they decided to move to Central Point Oregon and pursue a second career of chicken farming. They were able to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary before Denzil’s death in 2001. Frances then returned to Pittsburg, living with her daughter Judy.

Frances is survived by her daughter Judy Dawson of Pittsburg, 3 Grandsons; Demetrios, Douglas and Dennis Katrones and 1 granddaughter Deborah Moreno and her husband Fred. 5 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren as well as a brother Tom Smith of Antioch, along with a very special canine friend, Albert.

She was preceded in death by her husband and her son Gene Findley who died in 1991. Donations are preferred to the Animal Rescue Foundation 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, Calif. or to a favorite charity.

Neil Robert McAlpin

A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday. August 18. 2008, in Polson, Montana, at the Grogan Funeral Home. Neil Robert McAlpin died on the family farm in Polson August 14, 2008, of natural causes. Neil was born February 14, 1934, near Villisca, Iowa, on the family farm to Lottie (Thompson) and Robert McAlpin. After college, Lottie taught school in Sunny Slope and Bigfork while Robert worked for the USDA in Dubois. They married and settled in Iowa, but a love of the West led them to sell that farm and bring their children to Polson in 1940, purchasing the former Gov. Joseph Dixon Ranch on the South Shore. Neil graduated from Polson High in 1952. He attended Carleton College and finished his formal education at Montana State College in Bozeman, majoring in Zoology.

After teaching for a short time at Polson High, he married Randa Colvill and they purchased the family farm. Together, Neil and Randa have spent the last 48 years raising children, grandchildren and crops on the shore of Flathead Lake. They are also known for 38 years of innovative dairying on their farm. Later in life Neil developed a passion for building and flying radio control airplanes, which he was doing when he passed away. Neil would want to be remembered for his service to community, on boards including the Lake County Junior Fair, Mission Valley Dairy Cooperative, and Polson Rural Fire District. He led 4-H clubs and Cub Scout troops locally and served on the Producers Committee for Milk Quota, and board of the Montana State University Agriculture Research Stations for Montana. He was equally proud of the accomplishments of his own children as of the accomplishments of the numerous young people to whom he taught the values of hard work on the farm. His greatest joy was teaching his grandchildren a love for nature, being outdoors and working with their hands. God has a farmer now.

Neil is survived by his wife of 48 years Randa, sons Ken (Gina) of Ronan, Dave (Beth O’Halloran) of Missoula, and daughter Barbara Margaris (Mel) of Great Falls; as well as siblings Ross McAlpin (Marylou) of Bigfork, Alice Forbes (Dale) of Great Falls, four grandchildren, and other extended family. Memorials can be made to the Lake County 4-H Foundation, 300 – 3rd Avenue, Ronan, MT 59864.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com

GERALD FLETCHER PENTON

Gerald Fletcher Penton was born on November 8, 1937, on the farm southwest of Villisca to Waldo Willett Penton and Elzene Loletta Gourley. He died Thursday, August 7, 2008, at his home. Jerry farmed and was the custodian at the Villisca United Methodist Church for 20 years retiring in 1999. After he retired from farming, Jerry enjoyed coffee and conversation with friends often entertaining others with his sarcastic humor and pointed wit.

He leaves his wife of 37 years Sandra; son Brian (Lynn) Penton of Houston, TX; step-children: Dan (Carol) Snow of Lincoln, NE; Karyn Snow of Lincoln, NE; and Angela Ritz of St. Louis, MO; daughter Julie (Nelson) Robinson and family of North Liberty, IA; sons: Joseph Penton and Steven Penton and their families; grandchildren: Abbey, Allison and Amber Penton of Houston, TX; step-grandchildren: Philip, Emery & Clarissa Snow of Lincoln, NE, and Ryan & Beth Ritz of St. Louis, MO; special friend and companion Phred. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law Steve Ritz.

Memorials to the Heartland Home Health Hospice or the Villisca United Methodist Church.

A Celebration of Life gathering will take place on Wednesday, August 13, 2008, in the Fellowship Hall of the Villisca United Methodist Church. The family will greet friends and share memories at this time. Burial of ashes will take place at a later date.

Arthur Donovan Warnaca

Funeral services for Donovan Warnaca, 65, of La Vista Nebraska, formerly of Villisca, were held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2008, at Bethany Funeral Home Chapel in La Vista Nebraska. Reverend Jim Cunningham officiated the service.

Donovan passed away Tuesday, July 22, at Bergan Mercy hospital in Omaha, Nebraska.
Donovan was born February 8th, 1943, to Florinda and Arthur Warnaca. Donovan grew up on a farm just East of Villisca. He attended Villisca High School and graduated by attending night classes at the high school.

On August 6, 1959, Donovan and Patricia Ann Shrimpton were married at Nodaway, Methodist Church. He worked at Villisca Hy-Vee and Corning Hy-Vee until he went to work for Clark Construction in Villisca. They moved to Omaha, Nebraska in 1962, and he got a job in the laborers union and worked construction at Western Electric Co. for 10 years. He then got in to Millswright Union Local #1463 where he became a journeyman millwright and worked for them for 20 years and retired at 55 years of age. He was quite a sportsman. He loved deer hunting with a rifle and a bow in Nebraska and Wyoming, going for bear in Montana and camping, fishing and boating all over the Midwest. He was always a dedicated Husker Fan and loved to collect new and old guns. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles. They traveled through South Dakota on a Honda Goldwing one summer visiting good friends in Rapid City, they spent a winter in Florida, took kids and grandchildren to Texas and Kansas City. There are so many good memories and they had so much fun. He was a very hard worker all of his life. Never could sit still long. He loved to meet people and talk. He had many wonderful friends and neighbors. Most important in his life was his family. Since they all live in Omaha, he saw them quite often and loved it. Every Christmas Eve the family was all there. Donovan and Patricia enjoyed a good life together. August 6, 2008, would have been 49 years together.

Donovan leaves his wife Pat, son David Donovan Warnaca and grandson Justin of La Vista, Nebraska, daughter Christine McCart of Omaha, Nebraska, granddaughter Dawn Marie Gates, husband Bruce and 7 year old great grandson Jacob Donovan Gates of Papillion, Nebraska, Grandson Steven McCart and great grandson Stevie age 2 and great granddaughter Madison age 4 of Omaha, Nebraska, grandson Michael McCart and wife Jennifer and great grandson Mike age 2 of Omaha, Nebraska. He also loved his pets KeKe, Casey, Jack, Sabbeth and Brandy.
His golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands laid to rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us he only takes the best!

Memorials may be made to the family.

We all love and miss him so.

Floris Roverta McKinley

Floris Roverta McKinley, 84, was born August 1, 1923, in Villisca, Iowa, the daughter of Clifford Thompson Kelley and Lorene Amelia (Stokesbary) Kelley. She passed away Saturday, July 26, 2008, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska.

She graduated from the Villisca Community School. On June 26, 1953, she married Merl McKinley. She worked at the EverReady Carbon Plant in Red Oak in the assembly department for 31 ½ years. She retired from EverReady in 1985. She loved stock car races, going for night rides with Merl, camping and fishing. She also enjoyed her dolls and stuffed animals.

Floris was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter Amelia Ellen, two brothers: James Kelley and Thomas Kelley, and 3 sisters: Burdena Pettengill, Eudora Greenlee, Mary Lou Cords, and Florence Kelley. She is survived by her husband Merl of Villisca, IA; a son Glen (Gloria) Bales of Des Moines, IA; brother Robert (Jo) Kelley of Surprise, AZ; and two sisters: Hytha Kinnersley of Red Oak, IA, and Dwylla Stevenson of Clarksville, AR; grandchildren; great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Floris were held Wednesday, July 30, 2008, at the Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca with burial in the Villisca Cemetery. Pastor Kevin Skipworth officiating. Memorial may be made to the family.

Myrtle Lenora Larson

Myrtle Lenora Larson was born to Leonard Larson and Hilda Swanson Larson on February 1, 1915, in Stanton, Iowa. Myrtle Larson, 93, of Villisca, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, July 15, 2008, at the Stanton Care Center, Stanton, Iowa.

Myrtle graduated from Stanton High School. After working for several years at the Villisca Bank, she became a homemaker taking care of her parents. She enjoyed gardening and baking. She was a long time member of Eastern Star.

She is survived by her sister Irene Robinson of Villisca and a niece Linda Ridenour of Atlanta, GA. She was preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Hilda (Swanson) Larson, brothers Dennis Larson and Weldon Larson, and sister Minnie Findley.

Verlea Joann Sands

Verlea Joann Sands, the daughter of Art and Hazel (Christie) Gay, was born on October 7, 1932, at Carbon, Iowa. Verlea entered eternal rest on June 27, 2008, at the Creston Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Creston, Iowa, at the age of seventy-five years, eight months, and twenty-one days.

Verlea lived in Carbon, Corning and Villisca. She graduated from Corning High School. In 1951, she married Dewey Carpenter. She later married Don Sands. Verlea worked at Union Carbide in Red Oak for twenty-seven years and was a homemaker. Verlea always loved her pets, many cats and dogs, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Left to cherish Verlea's memory are her children: Dewey Carpenter, Jr., Red Oak; Jennifer (husband Harry) Walters, Creston; Jay Carpenter, Portalos, NM; Jack Carpenter, Colorado Springs, CO; and Donavon (wife Joni) Sands; Red Oak, IA; Fourteen Grandchildren; and one Great-Grandson; her sister: Ruth Gay, Villisca, Iowa; her brothers: Clayton Gay, Villisca, IA; Ron Gay, Villisca, IA; and Don (wife Carolyn) Gay, Gilroy, CA; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Preceding Verlea in death were her parents: Hazel and Art Gay; and her son: John Carpenter.

Kim McCue

A memorial service was held at the Wolfe Funeral Home on July 1, 2008, for Kim McCue of Villisca who passed away suddenly Thursday, June 26th at her home. Rev. Sandra Wainwright Rossander officiated. Her ashes are being taken to Montana for dispersal.

Kim Coriena Bowers McCue was born September 24, 1962, in Whitefish, Montana, the daughter of James and Mary Bowers. She had always loved the outdoors. As a youngster she enjoyed fishing with her father. She was happiest when she was helping children. She enjoyed entertaining her children, their friends and her grandchildren. She felt that she had a “billion kids” to look after. She home schooled her children when she was living in Montana. She enjoyed playing and helping her grandchildren as well.

She was very organized and that showed in her personal life. She earned her LPN license through Southwestern Community College and pursued her RN degree while balancing children and working at Romech with studying. She also loved to write poetry. On February 2, 2005, she was united in marriage to Daniel McCue.

Kim was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Vonnie Bowers, and her father-in-law Harold McCue. She is survived by her husband Daniel, 3 children: Harold Shoemaker of Anita, IA, Sharlene Killion of Atlantic, IA, Loretta Thedford of Cumberland, IA; 5 grandchildren: Aisha Dawn, Dominic, & Isiah Shoemaker and Damian & Mercedez Updike; 2 sisters: Jennifer (Guy) Wingfield of Oregon and Amelia Bowers of Montana; 1 brother James Bowers of Eureka, Montana; her mother-in-law Edith McCue of Villisca, IA; along with many nieces and nephews.

Joan Brown

Funeral services for Joan Brown, age 65 of Villisca, Iowa, who died Sunday, June 29, 2008 at her home in Villisca, Iowa after a courageous thirteen year battle with cancer, were held Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa with Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with the family was held 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa. Burial was in the Villisca Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society or to the Alegent Health Hospice. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Beverly Joan Brown was born August 18, 1942 in Clarinda, Iowa, the daughter of Ivan Eldon Peterman and Gladys Marie (Owens) Peterman. Joan was raised in Clarinda with her three sisters and brother. She was a 1960 graduate of Clarinda High School. Joan was united in marriage to Robert Glassgow and later divorced. Joan and Ron Brown were married February 1, 1987 in Villisca and made their home in Villisca.

Joan worked at Lisle Corporation for over twenty years in the shipping department. She also was the bookkeeper for their Brown Sanitation business. Joan was a member of the Christian Church.

Family was the most important thing in Joan's life. Her husband, Ron, children and grandchildren came first in her life. She was also close to her brother and sisters. Joan especially enjoyed being with her grandchildren. Collecting angels was a favorite pastime of Joan's. She always put others first and wanted to help in any way she could. Joan will be remembered as always happy and with a smile even through her long battle with cancer.

Left to cherish Joan's memory are her husband, Ron Brown of Villisca; daughter, Michelle Hoyt of Clarinda; step children, Mike Brown and wife Lisa of Corning, Cori Feller and husband Mark of Shenandoah; grandchildren, Brandon and Britni Hoyt, Austin and Ashley Feller, Justin Cooper and wife Laura, and Josh Cooper; Great Grand daughter, Emma Cooper; mother, Gladys Peterman of Clarinda; brother, Bert Peterman and wife Janis of Shambaugh; sisters, Myriel "Jean" Cross of Afton, Dixie Booher and husband Glade of Clarinda, Kathryn "Kay" Gomez of Santa Fe Springs, California; mother-in-law, Fern Brown of Corning; brothers-in-law, Dick Brown and wife Sandy of Wall Lake, Bob Brown and wife Elinor of Villisca; sisters-in-law, Linda Kleiman and husband Tom of Kewaunee, Wisconsin, Vicky Tugel and husband Jake of Carlisle, Kris Ferguson and husband Rob of Jefferson City, Missouri; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her father, Ivan Peterman; infant daughter, Kimberly Jean; father-in-law, Russell Brown; great nephew, Aaron Brown.

Joan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and sister; her love and inspiration will live on through her family. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing.

Janet Lee Christensen Boucher

Janet Lee Christensen Boucher left us to be with her Father in heaven, peacefully in her sleep after a two-year battle with mesothelioma, in her home of 40 years, in San Juan Capistrano, CA. on June 2, 2008. Janet was preceded by her mother Aletha Kendrick Christensen McGee, father Lester Miles Christensen, and stepfather

Harry "Pat" McGee. She is survived by her former husband Frederic Boucher; her children and their spouses: William "Bill" Boucher, Anne Miotti, Peter Boucher, and Joseph Mouawad; and her grandchildren: Robby, Betty, Elena, John, Alex, Christine, Natalie, Dori and Jano.

Janet was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa and raised in Villisca, which she always considered her true home. She earned her bachelors degree and teaching credential from the University of Lincoln, Nebraska, where she met and married Fred Boucher. They moved to California in the 50's and to San Juan Capistrano, CA in 1968. While they were divorced in the mid 1970's they remained friends and spent most holidays together with their children and grandchildren. Fred became more and more important to her as her illness progressed. He would take care of her and drive her to doctor appointments, helped her with paperwork and would undertake many other tasks.

Janet was active in the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society from the 70's through the 90's. She loved SJC and spent many weekends as a tour guide, giving tours of the downtown historical areas of the city. She received her California Teaching Credential from the University of CA at Irvine and worked as a substitute teacher for the Capistrano Unified School district for many years in the 70's. In the 80's she worked as a secretary for the Youth Exchange Services (YES) connecting US and foreign exchange students with host families. Janet worked for the south coast YMCA as a secretary for many years, then ran an after school child care office at Del Obispo school.

Janet loved her family, had a strong faith in God, and was active in the SJC community Presbyterian Church for 35 years. A few of the ways she gave back to her church were helping out with Vacation Bible School, teaching Sunday School, and singing in the choir. She was an avid music lover. She played piano, mountain dulcimer, and guitar, all the while she was singing along to the rhythms she created.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Presbyterian Church in Villisca, Iowa on June 21, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. There will be a service, including the scattering of her ashes at the old Kendrick farm, followed by lunch that is provided at The Bank in Villisca, Iowa. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations made to the Interchurch Council of Villisca.

Laurent Lee "Buster" Gourley

Laurent Lee “Buster” Gourley was born to Walter & Betty Gourley on September 5, 1944. (Walt died in 1986; Betty died in 2004.) Lee grew up on a farm at Morton’s Mill, Iowa with his three siblings, Floyd “Butch”, Elzene, and Fred. He was the only one in his country school class so transferred to Villisca in 8th grade. He graduated as Valedictorian from Villisca High School in 1962; graduated with Highest Honors from the US Air Force Academy with a majors in Astronautics and was Commissioned as a 2nd Lt in the USAF in 1966; and got his Masters’ degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Purdue University in 1967.

By November 1968 he was an F-100F fighter pilot in South Vietnam. He volunteered for a 90-day assignment as FAC (Forward Air Controller). That’s what he was doing when he was shot down over Laos on August 9, 1969. He was placed in Missing in Action status. He was promoted to the rank of Major December 2, 1969.

During 2001-2002, a joint U.S./Lao People’s Democratic Republic team excavated a plane crash site in Xepon District, Savannakhet Province, Laos. Recovered remains were interred at the Villisca Cemetery in October, 2002.

Florence Christine Mosman

Florence Christine Mosman, daughter of Mable (Nelson) Hultquist and John Hultquist, was born on July 1st, 1910 in Montgomery County, Iowa. She graduated from Villisca High School in 1929. She then worked as a schoolteacher.

On February 15th, 1930, Florence married Chester Mosman in Villisca, Iowa. They farmed near Grant and Villisca, before moving to their farm near Creston in 1940. She was a homemaker and farm wife. They moved into Creston in 1974. Flossie was a very active member of the Salem Lutheran Church and their quilting group. She also enjoyed her neighborhood groups.

Survivors include her son, Donald (wife Helen) Mosman of Creston; a daughter, Dorothy (husband Harvey) Shields of Thayer; three sisters, Vi Johnson of Creston, Marveline McConnell of Villisca and Fern Brown of Corning; a brother-in-law, Harold (wife Norma) Mosman of Corning and a sister-in-law, Jeanne Mosman of Ft. Collins, Colorado; five grandchildren, Terri (husband Terry) Hannah, Jeff (wife Debbie) Shields, Jon Shields, Doug (wife Nancy) Mosman, Julie (husband Gary) McFarling; 11 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Flossie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, in 1981, an infant daughter Marilyn in 1934, two great grandsons, Ryan and Cory Shields, five brothers-in-law and sister-in-law.

Richard LaVerne Wright

Richard LaVerne Wright was born July 1, 1930, in Villisca, IA, the son of William and Mildred (Shrimpton) Wright. He lived his entire life in Villisca. He attended school, helped the family with the livestock chores, delivered milk, and started helping his father at the saw mill at an early age. He worked at Van Chevrolet for 2 years and at Needham’s Mechanic Shop for 13 years. He went into the automotive and small engine repair in his own shop and continued there for 40 years. He drove a school bus route for Villisca Community Schools for 12 years and later was a substitute driver.

He was a member of the Villisca Volunteer Fire Department, the Villisca Chamber of Commerce, and a founding member of the Villisca Lions Club. He was a member the Villisca United Methodist Church and Methodist Men. He was also a member of the Iowa National Guard.

He married Ramona Follmann on July 17, 1955, at the Massena Methodist Church. He was father to son Bill and daughters Shelley, Marcy and Amy.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Maxine Johnson, Irene Richardson, and Dorothy Penfold and brother Roy Wright and infant brother Harold.

Dick is survived by his wife Ramona of Villisca, IA; son Bill (Christi) Burham of McAllister, OK; 3 daughters: Shelley Anderson (Eric) Anderson of Stanton, IA, Marcy (Jon) Schooley of Clay Center, KS, and Amy (Mark) Elwood of Stanton, IA; 8 grandchildren: Ben and Beth Ingersoll, Tanner Anderson, Jodie, Nathan, and Macy Elwood, Seth and Eli Schooley; brothers-in-law Hollis Penfold of Des Moines, IA, and Dick (Beulah) Follmann of Massena, IA; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2008, at the Villisca United Methodist Church in Villisca, Iowa, with burial in the Villisca Cemetery. Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Memorials may be sent to the family or to the Villisca United Methodist Church.

Lloyd Gaylord Thomas

Lloyd Gaylord Thomas, the son of Clarence and Hattie (Peck) Thomas was born July 21, 1908 in Montgomery County, Iowa. He died on Friday, May 30, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Society in Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 99 years, 10 months and 9 days.

Lloyd was raised in Montgomery County. In 1930, Lloyd was united in marriage to Alice Nelson. Lloyd farmed many years in the Morton Mills area, he especially enjoyed raising livestock. His wife Alice passed away in 1962. On October 8, 1965, Lloyd was united in marriage to Verna (Pat) Kraft Goecker at Villisca, Iowa. They continued to live on the farm until l971. Lloyd and Pat then made their home in Red Oak. Lloyd worked for Sears and Earl May, along with helping several farmers on their farms. Lloyd was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Red Oak. Lloyd loved to play cards and was very competitive; he enjoyed winning most of the time. Lloyd's hobbies included fishing and woodworking. He built doll furniture, farm toys, plant stands, Christmas decorations and even cabinets. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Alice; son: Richard Thomas in l959; grandson: Robert Allan Harper in l986; two brothers: Roy "Dick" Thomas and Bert Thomas; and stepson: David Goecker.

Lloyd is survived by his wife: Verna M. Thomas of Red Oak, IA: daughter: Ruby Harper and husband Bob of Villisca, IA; step-daughters: Patricia Wells and husband Roger of Council Bluffs, IA and Kathleen Edrington and husband Hal of Omaha, NE: step-daughter-in-law: Sandra Goecker of Council Bluffs, IA; two granddaughters: Nancy Watts and Rachel Durman and husband Mike; seven great-granddaughters: ten great-great-grandchildren: six step-grandchildren; eight step-great-grandchildren; two sisters: Stella Kelsay of Castle Rock, CO and Fern Nelson of Denver, CO; nieces, nephews, along with other relatives and friends.

May God bless his memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Memorials to First United Methodist Church in Red Oak or Montgomery County Memorial Hospital Foundation Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home charge of arrangements.

Harold L. and Audrey P. Enarson

Funeral services for Harold L. (1919-2006) and Audrey Pitt Enarson (1920-2008) will be held at 10:00 am at Wolfe Funeral Home on Saturday, May 17th, 2008. Their complete obituaries have appeared previously in the Villisca Review. Harold Enarson served as president of two universities--including Ohio State University, one of the largest in the country--during the tumultuous years of social change and campus unrest in the 1960's and 1970's.

Harold was born on a farm NW of Villisca, the son of John and Hulda Thorson Enarson, and moved as a youth to New Mexico, due to his father's health. His father died and his mother was the sole support while Harold was growing up. Even as a youth, he worked and earned money to help with family expenses.

He earned scholarships to enable him to attend college and eventually earned his Doctorate in Political Science. He was a veteran of WWII, earning several medals including the Purple Heart after being seriously wounded in Germany. He had a long and illustrious career, including serving as labor affairs assistant on President Truman's White House staff, appointment as president of Ohio State University and ending with his appointment as executive director of the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education, headquartered in Boulder CO, where they made their last home.

While a college student at the University of New Mexico, Harold met and later married Audrey Pitt, daughter of an area rancher. Audrey was renowned for her cowgirl skills and strong independent ways. She kept the family together while Harold fought in W.W.II., was active in her daughters' schools, and also gave her time freely to many causes, fighting for equal rights for minorities, the disabled, and the mentally ill. In her eighties she worked on worksites for Habitat for Humanity in Boulder, CO. She served on the Board of the National Girl Scout Council and held many positions in the Democratic Women's Club.

Harold and Audrey had three daughters, Elaine, Merlyn and Lisa. They and their families survive them. There are also surviving cousins in the area.

Following the funeral service, their combined cremains will be buried at Arlington Cemetery.

Roma Jean (Guss) Moates Ingersoll

Roma Jean (Guss) Moates Ingersoll, daughter of Glenn and Eula Guss, was born October 9, 1933. She was the third child and first daughter of the nine children in the family. Roma spent her younger years in the rolling hills of Hacklebarney north of Villisca, IA. She explored the streams and hills with her brothers and sisters, having fun as only children could during the Depression years. She attended country school there until the family moved to a farm near Nodaway, IA. Roma graduated from Nodaway High School in 1952. Shortly after graduation she ventured to Kansas City, MO, seeking employment. She lived with her aunt Irene Guss enjoying a new way of life. But the Villisca area called her back and she returned, working at the Nodaway National Bank in Villisca. She enjoyed working with the bank’s customers for 25 years.

Roma married Bill Moates of Villisca, IA, on Christmas Day, 1952. To this union were born two daughters: Jolene (Jody) and Vickie. Bill passed away in 1970, leaving a big hole in her heart. In 1971 Roma met Tom Ingersoll and he filled the void in her life. They married on March 11, 1972, and lived on his farm north of Villisca. She was back on the farm and loved it. Tom enjoyed taking Roma on vacation twice a year to visit the many places neither had been able to see in earlier years. One year they decided to just travel Highway 34 and see where it took them.

Roma loved walking in the woods of Hacklebarney Park with her daughters and granddaughters, telling them of the years she grew up in the region. They had many adventures visiting the old country school house, the old homestead and just wandering (and once getting lost) in the woods. Roma also loved history and antiques. She was an avid researcher of her family tree and could tell you stories of many ancestors. She enjoyed antique shopping, going to Flea Markets and just looking at as well as wondering about the history of each piece. Flower and vegetable gardening was also a joy in her life. She grew some of the best Musk Melon in Hacklebarney. After retiring from the farm, Roma enjoyed cross stitching and going on an occasional trip to the Casinos. Roma passed away Monday, May 26, 2008 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Eula Guss, her first husband Bill Moates, second husband Tom Ingersoll, sister June Balog, sister-in-law Janet Guss, brother-in-law Jird Fidler, and brother-in-law Lavern Echternach.

Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters: Jody Cooper and husband Dwaine of Villisca, IA, Vickie Sprague and husband Rick of Bedford, IA; step-sons: Bill Ingersoll and wife Brenda of Villisca,IA, Tom Ingersoll and wife Angie of Squaw Valley, CA; step-daughter Wendy England and husband Dave of Des Moines, IA; three granddaughters: Jodi (Sprague) McGargill and husband Kenny of Imogene, IA, Jennifer (Sprague) Belt and husband Wade of Council Bluffs, IA, Shannon (Moates)Spooner and husband Jason of Council Bluffs, IA; five great-grandchildren: Luk Miller, Elizabeth RomaMae Livengood, Emma Belt, Jaysen and Reece Spooner; step-grandchildren: Ben and Beth Ingersoll, Heather, Justin, Jessica and Crystal England; brothers: Ron and wife Joann Guss of New Market, VA, Merwin and wife Wanda Guss of Winterhaven, FL, Wayne and wife Wendy Guss of Sandy, UT; sisters: Shirley Fidler of Villisca, IA, Janet Echternach of Council Bluffs, IA, Sandy and husband Gail Kinser of Villisca, IA, Joan and husband Larry Perdew, Griswold, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

Her calm voice, cheery laugh and sound advice will be dearly missed by her family. In Roma’s opinion, loving and supporting your family is the purpose and joy of life.

Funeral services for Roma Jean (Guss) Moates Ingersoll were held Thursday, May 29th at Wolfe’s Funeral Home in Villisca, IA, with Pastor Kevin Skipworth officiating. Burial was in the Arlington Cemetery.

Larry L. Wheeler

Funeral services for Larry L. Wheeler of Nodaway, IA were held Friday, May 16, 2008 at Pearson-Coen-Beaty Family Funeral Service in Corning with Rev. Gordon Scott officiating. Burial was at Arlington Cemetery in rural Montgomery County.

Mr. Wheeler was born December 2, 1940 in Atlantic, IA, to Robert Max and Velma Mae (Cook) Wheeler; and died May 11, 2008 at his residence.

He graduated from Villisca High School in 1960 and served in the National Guard. He was united in marriage to Aneita Ruth Miller on March 22, 1964 at the Presbyterian Church in Corning. He farmed most of his life with his father. Later, Larry farmed with his brother in the Villisca and Nodaway area.

Larry especially loved to work outside and ride his Harley. He was a member of the American Legion of Villisca, ABATE of Iowa, Red Oak Chapter of the Harley Owner's Group (HOG), Za-Ga-Zig Shrine and the Masonic Lodge #590 of Nodaway.

Larry was preceded in death by his father Robert "Bob" Wheeler; brother-in-law Gerald Rohrssen; grandson Robert Jeffrey Miller; father-in-law Norman "Stormy" Karstensen; and sister-in-law Mary Alice Bruns.

Survivors include his wife Aneita Wheeler of Nodaway; mother Velma Wheeler of Villisca; mother-in-law Lenora Karstensen of Corning; son Robert Wheeler and wife Julie of Mountain Home, ID; daughter Brenda Barber and husband Greg of Des Moines, IA; three grandchildren: Johnathan, Jessica and Victoria Locke of Des Moines; brother Dale Wheeler and wife Sharon of Villisca; sisters-in-law: Rita Rohrssen of Marietta, GA; Janiece Brokaw and special friend Brian Weinreich of Corning; and a host of other relatives.

Memorials may be directed to your charity of choice and/or Alegent Health Hospice of Corning.

Irene Moser Sierp

Funeral services for Irene Moser Sierp were held on Saturday, March 22, 2008, at the Presbyterian Church in Villisca, Iowa, with Sandy Wainwright Rossander officiating. Burial was in the Villisca Cemetery. Irene passed away Tuesday, March 18, 2008.

Anna Irene Sierp, daughter of John and Anna (Dahlstrom) Magnuson was born in Spokane, Washington, August 18, 1910. She moved with her family to a farm near Stanton, Iowa when she was four years old. She was confirmed at Tabor Lutheran Church, Wallin, August 17, 1924. She graduated from Red Oak High School in 1928 with a Normal Training Certificate. She taught in rural schools for three years and married Lehnen A. Moser on August 5, 1931. She joined the Villisca Presbyterian Church in 1938. She was a Sunday School teacher, active in the Presbyterian Women's Association and also served as a Deacon of the Church. She was awarded an Honorary Life Membership in United Presbyterian Women. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star for over fifty years. She was Worthy Matron in 1954. In later years, she was a volunteer at the Villisca Good Samaritan Center.

Irene's husband, L.A. Moser, passed away January 29, 1967. She married Glen Sierp, July 27, 1968 and acquired a much loved second family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, a sister, a brother, two grandsons, a son-in law, and several other loved ones.
She is survived by her son, James Moser and wife, Rosalene, Evergreen, CO; daughter, Linda Moser Gary, Woodland Hills, CA; daughter, Shirley Sierp Walker and husband, Garold "Red", Altamont, MO; and son, Kenneth Sierp and wife, Kathy, of York, NE; and grandchildren, Daniel Moser and wife, Sandra, Downers Grove, IL; Louise Moser Porter and husband, Kurt, Olney, MD; Andrew Gary, Lake Elsinore, CA: Bryan Gary, Dillon, CO; and Gretchen Gary, Costa Rica; Debra Smith and husband, R.J., Central City, IA; Karla Michener and husband, Tim, Gallatin, MO; Paula Wilson, Grimes, IA; Kyle Sierp, Dallas, TX; Christopher Sierp and wife, Heather, Dallas, TX; and Keri Kircher and husband, Seth, York, NE.

Irene also has twenty-four great grandchildren and one great-great grandson; two sisters-in-law, Edna Magnuson and Lucille Sierp; nephew Max Magnuson and wife, Barbara, and many other close extended family members and friends.

In Irene's opinion, loving one another is the purpose and joy of life.

Vivian Veora Hart

Vivian Veora Hart was born Sunday, July 13, 1913 southwest of Villisca, Iowa in Page County on the farm of her parents, John Harvey and Bessie (Collier) Kelley. Vivian passed away Saturday morning, March 8, 2008 at Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center where she had resided for nine years.

Vivian and Harold John Hart were married September 1, 1932, in Creston, Iowa. They had two children, Richard and Ron. Vivian was a devoted homemaker and farm wife on their farm southeast of Villisca. She loved to cook, tend to her flowers, and over the years sew for her children and grandchildren. She and Harold retired from farming and moved to Villisca. Harold predeceased her in death in 1998. She was also preceded by her parents and sister-in-law Marjorie Kelley.

She is survived by her sons, Richard H. Hart and his wife Helen of Cheyenne, Wyoming and Ron Hart and his wife Carol of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren, James Hart of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Kelley Jenkins and her husband Andy of San Pedro, California, Teresa L. Sohl of Red Oak, Iowa, Gregory D. Hart and his wife Teri Jo of Clarinda, Iowa; great grandchildren Emmet Jenkins; Jennifer, Megan and Elizabeth Sohl; Allen Hart and his wife Jill; and Brian Hart; great great grandchildren Kaitlyn and Isaac Hart and Brooke Hart; brother, Leonard Kelley of Clarinda, Iowa and his daughter Karen Meyer of Clarinda, Iowa.

Graveside services were held Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at Arlington Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Villisca Fire & Rescue. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca was in charge of arrangements.

Janice "Jan" Kendrick

Janice "Jan" Kendrick, 74, of Hot Springs Village, AR went to be with the Lord on April 2, 2008. She was born in Clarinda, Iowa on September 15, 1933, the daughter of the late C.R. (Bill) Kelley and Rae Higgins Kelley.

Janice married Darwin Kendrick of Villisca, Iowa on March 9, 1952. To this union were born four daughters: Kimberly Kendrick, Terryl Budde, Kelly Kendrick and Paulette "Cori" Currey.

Janice belonged to the Society of Mayflower Descendants, The Daughters of the American Revolution and the National Society of Colonial Dames XVII Century. She was an avid researcher of her family tree as she descended from four Mayflower families. Her other hobby was traveling all over the world. She visited over 26 countries and many islands and every state. Janice retired from the US Postal Service and was a member of the Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church in Hot Springs Village, AR.

A brother, Conrad Kelley, preceded Mrs. Kendrick in death. Survivors include her husband of 56 years, Darwin E. Kendrick of Hot Springs Village, AR; four daughters: Kelly Kendrick of DeWitt, MI, Kimberly Kendrick of Chicago, IL, Terryl Budde of Pompano Beach, FL and Cori Currey of Roscoe, IL; a sister, Karen Foote of Beaverton, OR and eight beloved grandchildren: Brandon Bartkowiak, Casey Sinclair, Cydney Currey, Kayleigh Chapman, Ian Currey, Olivia Currey, Amanda Kendrick, and Kaitlin Rodde.

Memorial service will be at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa at 10 a.m. on April 19, 2008. Interment will be in Memory Cemetery in New Market, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Lila M. Johnson

Lila M. Johnson, age 85, of Red Oak, Iowa passed away Friday, March 21, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital. Lila Margaret Johnson was born November 2, 1922 in Villisca, Iowa the daughter of John David and Effie May (Noble) Copelin. She was raised near Villisca and graduated from Villisca High School in 1941. She worked for several area families helping with the kids and later for Powell School before she was united in marriage to A. Delbert Johnson on February 25, 1944 in Corning, Iowa. They lived and farmed near Gus, Iowa for 40 years moving to Red Oak in 1984. Delbert eventually was residing at the Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center and Lila moved to Villisca in 1991 to be closer to Delbert. Delbert preceded Lila in death on March 31, 1993. Lila moved back to Red Oak in 1998 and lived at Acorn Acres. Over the years Lila worked as a telephone operator and a cook at both the Shady Lawn Nursing Home in Villisca and the Good Samaritan Care Center in Red Oak. Lila always kept very busy in her work, church and taking care of her family. She was a Sunday School teacher, youth leader, and 4-H leader for many years. Her hobbies included maintaining a very large garden, canning, sewing, embroidery, working with resin to create art projects, arranging pressed flowers into pieces of art, and loved decorating for all the holidays. Lila was also proud to have been a member of the Calico Maids Club and the First Christian Church.

Preceding Lila in death were her infant brothers: Delbert and Darwin; her parents; her husband: Delbert Johnson; her sister: Ruth Speed; and her brother: Joe Copelin. Survivors include her daughter: Colleen Johnson of Red Oak Iowa; her sister: Mary Speed of Huxley, Iowa; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; two special children who called her "Mom" and their 5 children who called her "Grandma"; sisters-in-law: Millicent Copelin of Villisca, Iowa; Lola Johnson of Colorado; and Betty Johnson of Corning, Iowa; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 2 PM Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Rev. Lowell Schaaf and Rev. JoAnn officiating. Burial will be in the Arlington Cemetery near Villisca, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held from 6-8 PM Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. Lila's pressed flower art arrangements will be diplayed at her funeral and her wishes were that memorials be suggested to the Red Oak Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association in lieu of flowers.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Velma Lois Timmerman

Velma Lois Timmerman, age 90, of Corning, Iowa died Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at Corning Nursing and Rehabilitation in Corning, Iowa. Services will be 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 at the First Presbyterian Church in Corning with Rev. Ken Rummer officiating. Burial will be at Nodaway Cemetery in rural Nodaway, IA.

Velma Timmerman was born April 22, 1917 to Millen Thompson and Sarah Emelia Olson. She married Robert M. Timmerman on January 9, 1942 in Fairfax, MO. She was a homemaker and was a cook at Colonial Manor, Corning Nursing and Rehab Center. She also worked at Happy Hollow Country Club. She was a member of Strand Lutheran Evangelical Church, Villisca, IA

Survivors are: Daughters: Joan (husband Marion) Niemeyer, Omaha, Nebraska; Jean (husband Larry) Andersen, Treynor, Iowa; Lois (husband Paul) Pfundt, Lincoln, Nebraska; Diane (husband Gary) Badgett, Corning, Iowa; Son: Dean (wife Janet) Timmerman, Ponca City, Oklahoma; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 13 step-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Velma in death: Preceded in death by: Parents: Millen and Sarah Emelia Thompson; Husband: Robert Timmerman; Children: Robert Timmerman Jr. and infant daughter Timmerman.

Memorials should go toCorning Nursing and Rehab, Alegent Health Mercy Hospital or Just Friends in Velma's name. On-line condolences may be left at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com Pearson-Coen-Beaty Family Funeral Service in Corning, IA was in charge of arrangements.

Viola Marie Fastenau

Viola Marie Fastenau, the daughter of Fred Schroeder and Dena (Blankemier) Schroeder, was born on January 1, 1922, in Belgard, NE. Viola entered eternal rest on March 18, 2008 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning, Iowa at the age of 86 years, 2 months and 18 days.

Viola married Eldo Bernhardt Fastenau on July 20, 1942 in Rockport, MO. Four children were born to this blessed union: Norma; Ron; Don and Jerry.

She was a housewife throughout her life; however, she worked at Carden's Shoe Store for fourteen years and at the Corning Creamery for two years. Viola had a passion for gardening, fishing and sewing.

She was a Charter Member of Redeemer Lutheran Church. She taught Sunday school, VBS, and Youth Group most of her life. Her memberships also included: Ladies Legion Auxiliary, Redeemer LWML. In addition, Viola also had volunteered with the American Red Cross.

Left to cherish Viola's memory are her children: Daughter: Norma (husband James) McCutchan, Creston, Iowa; Sons: Ron (wife Ellen) Fastenau, Minot, North Dakota; Don (wife Patty) Fastenau, Winterset, Iowa; Jerry Fastenau (special friend Stephanie Duval), Corning, Iowa; Brothers: Alden Schroeder, Creston, Iowa; Delbert (wife Judy) Schroeder, Villisca, Iowa; many nieces, nephews, relatives and other friends.

Viola was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother of thirteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

Preceding Viola in death were Parents: Fred and Dena Schroeder; Husband: Eldo Fastenau in 1993; Brothers: Ed Schroeder; Henry Schroeder; Donald Schroeder (infant); Sister; Deloris Jean Herzburg.

Kenneth D. Mueller

Kenneth D. Mueller, age 89, of Grant, Iowa passed away Sunday, March 2, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak. Kenneth Darwin Mueller was born July 6, 1918 in Grant, Iowa the son of Jacob F. and Mary (Adkinson) Mueller. He graduated from Grant High School in 1935 and started working for Spiker Chevrolet. Kenneth served in the Army during WWII and was united in marriage to Ruth Phillips on April 21, 1945 in Griswold, Iowa. Kenneth worked for Spiker Chevrolet until 1955 when he started Mueller Insurance Agency located in his father's hardware store at Grant, Iowa. In 1970, Kenneth sold his business and went to work for Houghton State Bank as Vice-President in the Insurance Department at their bank in Elliott, Iowa. While he was in his 60's, Kenneth attained his real estate license. This was a tool he used in his work in helping people settle estates. He also was a notary public and was always helping someone with his stamp of approval. Kenneth even managed to find time to help Kenny Gridley with Auctions in his spare time. Over the years he was involved in many civic organizations including being the treasurer of City of Grant, member of Grant Fire Department, member of American Legion, member of Masonic Lodge, a member of Order of Eastern Star and member of Grant United Methodist Church. He was active in these organizations for well over 50 years. He also served on the Montgomery County Draft Board and was a charter member of the Montgomery County Conservation Board.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife: Ruth Mueller of Griswold, Iowa; daughter: Ramona Hetrick and husband Lee of Lincoln, Nebraska; son: John Mueller and wife Carla of Elliott, Iowa; grandchildren: Benjamin Pejsar of Lincoln, Nebraska; Rachel Pejsar Snelling and husband John of Lincoln, Nebraska; Brad Mueller of Lake Ozark, Missouri; and Allison Mueller of Ames, Iowa; great grandson: Grant Snelling of Lincoln, Nebraska; brother: Carl Mueller of Duluth, Minnesota; nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Thursday, March 6, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Rev. Terry McClain officiating. Burial will be in the Grant, Iowa Cemetery. There will be a Masonic service at 6:30 PM Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with visitation with the family to follow until 8 PM. Memorials are suggested to the Grant Fire Department or the Grant American Legion.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Letha M. McFarland

Letha May McFarland, the daughter of Joseph Martin and Tilda Emelia (Houghsten) Wyatt was born October 22, 1907 in Adams County, Iowa. She died on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 atthe Villisca Good Samaritan Society of Villisca, Iowa at the age of 100 years, 4 months and 5 days.

Letha attended grade school in Adams County and graduated from Corning High School in June, 1927. After graduation, she went to Chicago with her sister Lila and worked for Montgomery Wards Catalog Company for one year. Due to her mother's health problems, Letha came back to help on the farm. Later, she began working at Thos. D. Murphy Calendar Company, until being layed off. She began housekeeping for Mrs. Cole who lived south of Red Oak. On November 27, 1929, Letha was united in marriage to Paul D. McFarland in Rockport, MO. During the Great Depression, Letha and Paul lived and worked on Letha's parents' farm. During WW II, they lived in Olathe, KS and California. In 1943, Letha and Paul settled on their farm northeast of Stanton. She enjoyed camping and spending time in Arizona during the winter months. Letha became a resident of Villisca Good Samaritan Society in November, 2005. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 72 years, Paul on June 23, 2002; 2 sisters: Lila Johnson and Kathryn Hamilton; 5 brothers: Arther Wyatt, Harvey Wyatt, Robert Wyatt, Myron Wyatt and Olin Wyatt; and son-in-law: Frank Messer.

Letha is survived by 3 daughters: Mrs. Marilyn Messer of Kansas City, MO; Pauline Bisbee and husband Jack of Stanton, IA; Carolyn Ragan and husband Bob of Calabasas, CA; 10 grandchildren: Delmar Messer; Debbie Martin; Sheryl Titus; Kathy Wilson; Kevin Messer; Teresa Nash; Diane Bisbee Jackson; David Bisbee; Connie Ragan; Terry Stewart; 17 great-grandchildren; 16 great-great-grandchildren; brother: Joe Wyatt of Jefferson, IA; brother-in-law: Jerry Shook of Kansas City, MO; sister-in-law: Barbara Perkins of Shell Knob, MO; other relatives and friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held
Monday, March 3, 2008 at 11:00 a.m.
at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home
Burial in Strand Cemetery, Adams County, IA
Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli, Officiating

Visitation with the family one hour prior to the service on Monday, March 3rd at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

William A. Cunningham

William A. Cunningham, 77, of Weslaco, TX, formerly of Villisca, Iowa passed away Sunday, February 3, 2008 at the Comfort House in McAllen, TX. He was born April 2, 1930 at Wamego, Kansas to Arthur H. Cunningham and Elizabeth B. Fenton.

Bill graduated from Villisca High School in 1948 and attended college for one year. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving during the Korean War. On September 13, 1950 Bill married Frances Corbin at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Red Oak, Iowa. This union was blessed with two children: Jean and Daniel.

Bill started his law enforcement career with the Iowa Highway Patrol in 1959 to 1966. He became a United States Deputy Marshal in 1966. He retired as Chief Deputy Marshal in 1986. He was stationed in Des Moines, Topeka, KS, Washington, DC, Baton Rouge and Oklahoma City. He was a part-time Montgomery County Deputy Sheriff from 1990 to 2000.

Bill is survived by his children Jean Rafferty and husband John of Topeka, KS and Daniel Cunningham and wife Paula of Statesboro, GA, grandchildren William (Deena) Rafferty of Wauconda, IL, Jenna (Matthew) Langley of Columbia, MO, Sean Cunningham of Statesboro, GA and Kelley Cunningham of Lawrenceville, Ga, brother Charles Cunningham of Globe, AZ and sister-in-law Elaine Artlip of Tenville, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents, his dear wife Fran, and his sister Mary Popken.

Memorial services were held Saturday, February 16, 2008 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with Fr. Thomas Coenen officiating. Interment was in the Grant Cemetery, Grant, IA. Memorial should be directed to the Alzheimer's Association or Comfort House Hospice of McAllen, TX. Wolfe Funeral Home, Villisca, was in charge of arrangements.

Vivian Veora Hart

Vivian Veora Hart was born Sunday, July 13, 1913 southwest of Villisca, Iowa in Page County on the farm of her parents, John Harvey and Bessie (Collier) Kelley. Vivian passed away Saturday morning, March 8, 2008 at Villisca Good Samaritan Care Center where she had resided for nine years.

Vivian and Harold John Hart were married September 1, 1932, in Creston, Iowa. They had two children, Richard and Ron. Vivian was a devoted homemaker and farm wife on their farm southeast of Villisca. She loved to cook, tend to her flowers, and over the years sew for her children and grandchildren. She and Harold retired from farming and moved to Villisca. Harold predeceased her in death in 1998. She was also preceded by her parents and sister-in-law Marjorie Kelley.

She is survived by her sons, Richard H. Hart and his wife Helen of Cheyenne, Wyoming and Ron Hart and his wife Carol of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren, James Hart of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Kelley Jenkins and her husband Andy of San Pedro, California, Teresa L. Sohl of Red Oak, Iowa, Gregory D. Hart and his wife Teri Jo of Clarinda, Iowa; great grandchildren Emmet Jenkins; Jennifer, Megan and Elizabeth Sohl; Allen Hart and his wife Jill; and Brian Hart; great great grandchildren Kaitlyn and Isaac Hart and Brooke Hart; brother, Leonard Kelley of Clarinda, Iowa and his daughter Karen Meyer of Clarinda, Iowa.

Graveside services were held Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at Arlington Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Villisca Fire & Rescue. Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca was in charge of arrangements.

George Walter Johnson

George W. Johnson, 89, of Nodaway, Iowa died Friday, February 29, 2008, at his home south of Nodaway.

George was born May 7, 1918, to Calvin Wesley and Sarah Emma (Holland) Johnson in Guss, Iowa, one mile west of his current residence. He attended Weston Country School in Nodaway Township of Taylor County through the 8th grade.

He was united in marriage to Iva Lucille Blacklock on October 7, 1943 in Little Rock, Arkansas, just prior to being sent to Ascension Island in the southern Atlantic Ocean where he served as a baker in the U.S. Army. Upon his discharge he returned to his lifelong occupation of farming always within one mile of his birthplace. He was a member of the Maple Grove United Methodist Church of Guss, Iowa.

George was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lucille in 2006, brothers Floyd and wife Leona Johnson, Albert and wife Mary Johnson, Francis Johnson, Delbert Johnson and Wilbur Johnson and son-in-law Clifford Koch.

George is survived by his children: Donald Johnson and wife Lilian of Ames, Iowa; Carol and husband Terry Krone of Denver, Colorado; Kay and husband Gilles St. Pierre of Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Joyce Koch of Omaha, Nebraska; Keith Johnson and wife Denise of Mission, Kansas; Jan and husband Steve Rawson of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Kurt Johnson and wife Deanne of Gravity, Iowa; and Chris and husband Timothy Howe of Russellville, Arkansas; eleven grandchildren: Lynnay and husband Erich Hites of Story City, Iowa; Darren Johnson and wife Sarah of Ames, Iowa; Coquina Koch of Omaha, Nebraska; Regina Quaas and husband Michael of Shawnee, Kansas; Jeremy Johnson and wife Tracy of Dallas, Texas; Heidi Johnson of Mission, Kansas; Hannah and John Rawson both of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Justine, Michael and Natalie Johnson all of Gravity, Iowa; five great grandchildren: Isaac, Danniel, Karissa, Madison and Michael Jr., sisters-in-law Lola Johnson of Longmont, Colorado, Lila Johnson of Red Oak, Iowa and Betty Johnson of Corning, Iowa, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 7, 2008, at the Maple Grove United Methodist Church in Guss, Iowa, with interment in the Guss Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday, March 6th at the Wolfe Funeral Home of Villisca, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to the Maple Grove United Methodist Church. Wolfe Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Barrie Norman Oblinger

Barrie Norman Oblinger, 83, of Boca Raton, FL, and formally of Monroe, NY and Villisca, IA, died peacefully on January 6, 2008, after a short illness.

He was born on October 8, 1924, in Minneapolis, MN, to Milo Oblinger and Margareth Bjerke. He married Elaine F. Miller on August 15, 1948, and they had four children.

Barrie will be remembered by those who knew him for his deep passion of music and his love of the ocean.

Barrie is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elaine M. Oblinger; his children, Joyce Bloshinsky of Boca Raton, Florida, Barrie W. Oblinger of Mebane, North Carolina, Bruce Oblinger of Southern Pines, North Carolina and Janet Bryant of Aberdeen, North Carolina; seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Following cremation, a private burial at sea will be held with family members.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Hospice by the Sea, 1531 W. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, FL 33486 or the Tri-County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton, FL 33428.

Richard D. Carlson

Richard D. Carlson, age 71, of Red Oak, Iowa passed away Sunday, February 10, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Care Center. Richard Dean Carlson was born March 16, 1936 in Page County, Iowa the son of Richard C. and Frances (Carlsward) Carlson. He was raised in southwest, Iowa and served his country during the Korean War in the Army. He was united in marriage to Joy Burnison on September 4, 1955 in Nyman, Iowa. They lived in Alabama for a short time before moving to Creston, Iowa where Richard worked for the Rural Electric Cooperative. When Richard was unable to work due to illness he and Joy moved to Red Oak where they lived most of their lives. Richard was an avid Iowa Hawkeye Fan often being called the "Hawkeye Man". He loved his family and spent most of his time supporting his kids and grandkids at whatever event they were involved with at the time. He loved to deer hunt with a bow, mushroom hunting, cutting trees, carpentry work, walking, and trips to Dairy Queen. Richard loved the outdoors, his family and just having fun and laughter wherever he was.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son: Gary in 1982; his wife Joy on February 13, 2007; sister: Beverly Westenburg; sister-in-law: Lois Garwood; and brother-in-law: David Roseland. Survivors include his children: Richard D. Carlson, Jr. and wife Mi Chong of St. Cloud, MN; Cynthia Tucker and husband Richard of Winterset, IA; Stephen Carlson of Stanton, IA; Susan Geer and husband Scott of Stanton, IA; and Carrie Rinehart and husband Brian of Anamosa, IA; 14 grandchildren; one great grandson; sisters: LaDonna Raney and husband James of Villisca, IA and Marcia Sierp and husband Bob of Onalaska, WI; brothers: Darrell Carlson and wife Mary of Red Oak, IA; William Carlson and wife Carol Ann of Clarinda, IA; Roger Carlson and wife Mary Jo of Marion, IA; and Daniel Carlson of Red Oak, IA; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: John Garwood of Jefferson City, MO; Richard Burnison and wife Leta of Stanton, NE; Lowell Burnison and wife Jan of Red Oak, IA; Larry Burnison and wife Cheryl of Lawton, OK; Karen Pridemore and husband Harold of Florrisant, MO; Phyllis Roseland of Springfield, NE; Sandra Currie and husband George of Essex, IA; Linda Malerbi and husband Larry of Omaha, NE; Janet Vallone of Clearwater, FL; and Barbara Carlson of McCallsburg, IA; many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends and his special dog: Heidi.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Friday, February 15, 2008 at the Fremont Lutheran Church at Nyman, Iowa with Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Hope Cemetery at Nyman, Iowa with military honors. Visitation with the family will be held from 6-8 PM Thursday, February 14, 2008 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Fremont Lutheran Church at Nyman.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak is in charge of arrangements.

Florence Brown

Florence Brown, age 93 of Eden Prairie, MN formerly of Villisca, Clarinda and Shenandoah, IA

Florence Helen Elizabeth Brown, the daughter of Otto J. and Anna J. Carlson was born June 9, 1914 on a farm near Stanton, Iowa. She passed away on Saturday, February 9, 2008 at the Golden Living Center, Excelsior, MN at the age of 93 years and 8 months.

Florence grew up on a farm near Stanton, IA. She was united in marriage to Lloyd Carl Brown on October 4, 1941 in Lake Charles, LA, where Lloyd was stationed in the Army National Guard. To this union two daughters were later born, Sharon and Sandra. While Lloyd was on tour during WW II, Florence lived in Stanton and then moved to a farm near Villisca, IA. Following Lloyd's honorable discharge from the National Guard, they made their home on a farm near Clarinda, IA. In 1965, they moved from the farm to Shenandoah, IA. While in Shenandoah, Florence was a nurse's aid at Shenandoah Hospital for 6 years. Florence and Lloyd retired, moving to Walker, MN. Florence enjoyed winter, snow and loved to go on snowmobile adventures in and around Leech Lake at Walker, MN. After the death of Lloyd in May of 1991, Florence and Sharon continued to live in Walker until 1999 when they relocated to Minneapolis, MN. Florence enjoyed crafts, and taking loving care of Sharon until she passed away in 2001. After that time, she really enjoyed spending time getting to know all her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and neighbors at Realife Valley View Cooperative where she lived until she became ill in October of 2007. Florence was a member of St. Andrews Lutheran Church at Eden Prairie, MN.

Florence was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Lloyd; daughter: Sharon; 4 brothers: Richard Carlson, Harold Carlson, Arnold Carlson, and Wayne Carlson; 2 sisters: Lillie Pearson and June Bergren.

Florence is survived by daughter: Sandra K Thompson of Eden Prairie, MN; grandchildren: Dr. Angela K. Thompson-Busch and husband Richard; Melissa A. Carrico; John W. Thompson and wife Karla; great-grandchildren: Connor Carrico, Grant Busch, Samuel Thompson, Jackson Busch and Lindsay Thompson; nieces, nephews, along with other relatives and friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Funeral Service will be held
Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 11:00 a.m.
at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home, Red Oak, Iowa
Burial in Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, IA

Visitation with the family present 1 hour prior to the funeral service at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home on Saturday, February 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

Elaine Johnson

Marie Elaine Johnson, 63, of Sioux City, Iowa, formerly of Clarinda, Iowa, died Tuesday, February 5, 2008, at her residence following a lengthy illness with CLPD and cancer.

Elaine was born April 26, 1944, in Red Oak, Iowa, the daughter of Clifford Dewitt and Mildred Irene (Beavers) Stackhouse. She graduated from Villisca High School in 1962. She worked at NSK Corporation from 1975 until 2000.

She is survived by her mother Mildred Irene Stackhouse of Clarinda, Iowa; son Kelli Lynn Johnson of Sioux City, Iowa; two sisters, Ann Magneson and husband Merlin of Clarinda, Iowa, Mary Stackhouse of Omaha, Nebraska; one grandchild, Sydney Johnson of Wichita, Kansas.
Elaine was preceded in death by her father, Clifford.

Funeral services were held Friday, February 8, 2008 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with interment at Arlington Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. A memorial fund has been established in Elaine's name. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Montie Dwight Sprague

Montie Dwight Sprague was born September 16, 1946 in Clarinda, Iowa to Robert Dwight and Marjorie Aileen (Tackett) Sprague. He left school to join the military. He served two tours during the Viet Nam War as a U.S. Marine from 1963 to 1974. In 1975 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served until December of 1977. He later worked security for Sunbest Foods in Clearfield.

He is survived by his sons Montie D. Sprague and wife Crystal, Peter J. Sprague and wife Maria, Tyler B. Sprague and wife Sherish, all of Sacramento, CA; grandchildren Ashley, Katline, Tyler Brian II and Justin James; brothers Mike Sprague of Villisca, Kenneth & Teresa Sprague of Villisca, Ricky & Victoria Sprague of Bedford, Randall Sprague of Corning, half brother Dale Bowman, and half sister Tammy Shroyer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Audrey P. Enarson Endowed Scholarship Fund, UNM Foundation, MSC 07 04-4260, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, N.M. 87131. Condolences to the family may be sent to Gooding, O’Hara and Mackey at 242 Taylor St., Port Townsend

Erma Steeve

Erma M. Steeve, 88, of Evansville, Indiana passed away Monday, January 7, 2008 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital. She was born October 18, 1919 in Clarinda, Iowa.
She was a member of the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Evansville. She was baptized November 14, 1919 at St. John's Lutheran Church, confirmed April 8, 1933 at Immanuel Lutheran Church and later attended Villisca Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Villisca, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester; parents, William and Anna (Steeve) Salomon; brother, Harry; and an infant sister.

Erma is survived by her daughter, Kathleen and husband, Bill, of Newburgh, Indiana; four grandchildren and families, Phillip and Heather of Ankeny, Iowa, David of Frisco, Texas, Michael and Brooke of Waterford, Michigan, and Lori and Bob of Plano, Texas, four great-grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan 12, 2008 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with Rev. Jerome Wagoner officiating. Interment was at Clarinda Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Lutheran Church of our Redeemer Memorial Trust Fund in Evansville, Indiana. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Willis Walton

Graveside sservices for Willis Walton, age 49 of Villisca, formerly of Carbon, who died Sunday, January 13, 2008 at the Montgomery County Hospital were held Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Oakland Cemetery in Quincy with military rites. Visitation was held for one hour prior to services at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning. Memorials can be given in his name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Willis Donyou Walton was born December 20, 1958, in Omaha, Nebraska the son of Willis Walton and Darlene (Armstrong) Walton. He grew up in the Carbon area attending both Carbon and Corning Community Schools. While in school, Willie worked for three of his uncles in used car lots. He then enlisted in the United States Army, serving four years and six months in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and three and a half years in Fort Riley, Kansas. Willie then worked for the railroad for a short time. His main occupation was concrete and carpentry. For thirteen years, Willie lived in Gresham, Oregon where he was united in marriage and had two children. The couple later divorced. Willie also lived in Des Moines for two years until 2003, when he became ill and returned to Villisca to be near his family.

Willie enjoyed being around family and friends. He liked football, softball, hunting, hand fishing, gambling, along with water and snow skiing. Willie always enjoyed a good challenge, no matter how difficult the task!

Left to cherish Willie's memory are his two children, Tanner and Perlie Walton of Gresham, Oregon; his father, Willis Walton of Villisca; sisters, Vickie Kuhn and husband Jim of Griswold; Dixie Walton of Carbon; Pixie Wilkinson of Corning; Mandy Walton of Villisca; Mitzi Walton and Stan Richie of Corning; Tracy Walton and Mike Cobb of Villisca; brothers, Rick Walton of Villisca; Larry Walton of Clarinda; Terry Walton and wife Cheryl of Corning; nine nieces; eight nephews; twelve great-nieces; twelve great-nephews; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Willie in death are his mother, Darlene Walton; maternal grandparents, Ilo and Annie Armstrong; paternal grandparents, Bud and Opal Walton; a brother, Russell Walton; a niece, Dandee Richie; and a brother-in-law, Virgil Wilkinson.

Although Willie will be greatly missed, his love and enjoyment of life will live on through his family.

Joann M. Strickland

Joann M. Strickland, 71, of Villisca, Iowa passed away Monday, January 7, 2008 at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak, Iowa. She was born July 15, 1936 in Grant, Iowa to Kenneth Arthur and Lovina Mae (Crist) Corbin.

Joann graduated from Elliott High School in 1954. On June 23, 1985 she married Dick Strickland. She worked at Union Carbide/Eveready in Red Oak for 27 years retiring in 1993. After retirement she continued working with jobs at Duckwall’s, D & D (formerly Margie’s) and Casey’s.

Joann is survived by her husband Dick Strickland of Villisca; daughters: Jeanne Prichard of Omaha, NE; Pam and husband Adam Tucker of Hurst, TX; Nancy and husband Donnie Bond of Red Oak, IA; step-daughter Debbie Schenck of Villisca, IA; grandchildren Adam and wife Abby Smith of Red Oak, IA; Lucas Tucker and Sean Tucker of Hurst, TX; Caleb Smith of Red Oak, IA; step-grandson Cody Clement of Villisca, IA; great grandson Aiden Smith of Red Oak, IA; brother Ronnie Corbin of Iowa City, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents Kenneth and Lovina Corbin and a brother Clifford Corbin.

Memorial services for Joann M. Strickland were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 10, 2008 at the Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca, Iowa. Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Interment was in the Villisca Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Villisca Fire & Rescue or the family. Wolfe Funeral Home, Villisca, Iowa responsible for the arrangements.