Gavin Robert Bollman, infant son of Trent and Melissa (Downing) Bollman, Orchard, was born Friday, February 20, 2004, and died Thursday, February 26, 2004, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines.

A funeral Mass for Gavin Bollman will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Charles City. The Rev. Carl Ries, pastor, will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday where the Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church an hour prior to the Mass on Tuesday.

Along with his parents Gavin is survived by his paternal grandparents, Robert and Maxine Bollman of Osage; maternal grandparents, William and Mary Downing of Charles City; maternal great grandparents, Jim and Carol Downing of Charles City; three aunts, Amy (Rod) Hillegas, Mandy (Tracy) Baxter, and Lisa (Andy) Hintgen all of Charles City; and an uncle, Cass (Josie) Bollman of Pleasant Hill.

He was preceded in death by his paternal great grandparents, Loyal and Marie Kobernusz, and Lawrence and Helen Bollman; and maternal great grandparents, Russell and Marie McAloon.

Shirley J. Silber, 76, of Ionia, died Saturday, February 28, at the Shell Rock Care Center, Shell Rock, of natural causes.

She was born June 12, 1927, in Ionia, daughter of Loyal and Carol Parson Crooks. She married Eitel Heinz Silber Feb. 22, 1959, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Nashua. Mr. Silber died March 24, 1987.

Mrs. Silber farmed with her husband and was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Nashua, an Avon Representative, did babysitting, volunteer library work and taught Sunday School in Ionia for many years.

She enjoyed crocheting, handiwork, embroidery and puzzles and was an avid collector of salt and pepper shakers. bells, spoons, mugs, plates, stamps and more.

She is survived by four sisters, Alice Barkhausen, of Waverly; Lila (Leonard) Dietrich of Manly; Sue (Julius) Drewlow of New Hampton and Pernella (Gerald) Monaghan of Waverly; two brothers: Russell (Betty) Crooks of Charles City and Clark (Marianne) Crooks of Ponca City, Okla.; a sister-in-law: Donna Crooks of Charles City; one aunt: Beverly (Duane) Rossow of New Hampton; one uncle: Robert Crooks of Charles City and many nieces and nephews.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, three brothers: Wendell, Roger and Clayton Crooks; one brother-in-law: Alvin Barkhausen; one nephew: Eugene Barkhausen and one niece: Rita Marie Drewlow.

Services are 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. John's Lutheran Church, Nashua, with burial in Sunnyside Memory Gardens, Charles City. Friends may call from 3 to 8 p.m. today (Monday) at Ionia Funeral Home, Ionia, where there will be a 7 p.m. Scripture Service. Visitation also for an hour before services Tuesday at the church.

Memorials may be directed to the Shirley J. Silber Memorial Fund in care of the family.

Ionia Funeral Home, 641-394-3635.

                       Posted on 03/01/2004 by Gene Manning

DALTON, Ga. - Mr. Hugh M. Lightbody, 89, of Dalton, Ga., died Monday, March 1, 2004, at the Hamilton Medical Center.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 2, 2004, at 2:30 p.m. at the Chapel of the First United Methodist Church, with Dr. Joe Peabody and Rev. Mac Enfinger officiating. Burial will be in Whitfield Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends at the Atrium of the church from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

He was born in Daykin, Neb., the son of the late Elizabeth and Harry Lightbody. He graduated in 1939 from Iowa State University, D.V.M., and was a veteran of World War II from 1942 to 1946, serving as a captain in the Army Veterinary Corps. He worked for Dr. Salsbury's Pharmaceutical Co. for 42 years, retiring as vice president of marketing on February 2, 1983. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Charles City and a member of the A.V.M.A. for over 50 years, as well as belonged to the First United Methodist Church in Dalton.

He is survived by his wife, Pearl Rygh Lightbody, of Dalton; daughter Jean L. Hamilton, of Destin, Fla.; a sister, Vivian Smudski, of Grand Island, N.Y.; a brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Glendora Lightbody, of Silver Springs, Fla.; sister-in-law Ruth Lightfoot, of Kansas City, Mo.; grandchildren Douglas Kirkman, of London, U.K., Nathan Kirkman and Anne Partamian, both of Atlanta, Ga., Katie Bonjean, of Destin, Fla.; Rebecca Durkin of Jacksonville, Fla., and Hayley Hamilton of Athens, Ga.; as well as great-grandchildren Charles and Nancy Kirkman, both of London, along with many other relatives and friends.

Hugh was preceded in death by his daughter, Karen Kirkman, in 1995; his son, Steve Lightbody, in 1990; and his brother, Selby Lightbody.

The family requests flowers be omitted and memorials be made to the First United Methodist Church, PO Box 627, Dalton, GA 30722-0627.

Love Funeral Home, 1402 North Thornton Ave., Dalton, is in charge of the arrangements.

                    Posted on 03/02/2004 by Gene Manning

Katherine Hartogh, 79, a former resident of 702 8th Avenue, Charles City, died Tuesday, March 2, 2004, at the 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

A funeral Mass for Katherine Hartogh will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. The Rev. Carl Ries, pastor, will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4 to 8 p.m. where there will be a Vigil Scriptural Wake Service at 5:30 p.m. with the Rosary being recited at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Friday at the church an hour prior to the Mass.

Katherine Delores Schmalen Hartogh was born May 13, 1924, at West Bend, the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Nilles) Schmalen. She graduated from the Immaculate Conception High School. On December 30, 1943, she was united in marriage to James Hartogh at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City. Katherine was employed as a salesperson at J. C. Penney in Charles City for 35 years. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and the Sacred Heart Guild, Saint Frances Circle and Rosary Society of the church. Katherine enjoyed gardening, reading, and watching old westerns. Time spent with her family was very important, especially the time spent with her grandchildren.

Living family members include a son, Dennis and Diane Hartogh of Dubuque; two daughters, Karla and Mike Ebert of Fairmont, Minn., and Michele and Joe Troutman of Ruckersville, Va.; eight grandchildren; a brother, Bernard and Maxine Schmalen of Belridere, Ill.; and a sister, Teresa Dobbs of Charles City.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband James who died on Oct. 15, 2002, a son, David, a granddaughter, Jessica Ebert, and a brother, Tony Schmalen.

Harry E. Voelker, 93, formerly of 1764 Victory Ave., Charles City, died late Monday evening, March 1, 2004, at the 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 5, 2004, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home 401 Blunt St., Charles City. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

                  Posted on 03/03/2004 by Gene Manning

Harry E. Voelker, 93, formerly of 1764 Victory Ave., Charles City, died late Monday evening, March 1, 2004, at the 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 5, 2004, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City, with Rev. Dennis Niezwaag officiating. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home 401 Blunt St., Charles City. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. Those wishing to extend memorials may direct them to Hospice of North Iowa, St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church of Charles City or the donor's choice.

Harry Edward Voelker was born in St. Charles Township, rural Charles City, June 16, 1910, the son of Emil and Bertha (Krumrey) Voelker, he was one of four children. Harry had spent his entire life in the Floyd County area, where he had attended school and graduated from Colwell High School, class of 1927. During his school years he played basketball and completed daily chores on the family farm. On February 22, 1933, Harry was united in marriage to Margaret R. Hobert at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charles City. Harry farmed all of his working life, raising Herford cattle, milking cows and planting small grain in his fields. He attended St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, a life member of the Loyal Order of the Moose, Lodge #1011 of Charles City, the director of the Colwell CO-OP for nine years, a Niles Township trustee for 38 years, Mowes Seed Corn salesman for 49 years and a Farm Bureau member all of his life. In 1962 Harry was employed with the ASCS office where he worked for ten years. He was also the director of the county ASCS. Harry will be remembered for being a real people person, an avid card player, especially enjoyed playing in 'euchre' tournaments, cribbage and bingo. Harry liked to fish and took many trips to Minnesota and Canada to fish the many lakes in the area.

Harry and Margaret did not have children of their own and shared special moments nurturing nieces and nephews throughout their lifetime. Harry will be fondly remembered by family and friends who shared in his life. Those grateful for having had the privilege of sharing in Harry's life are his sister, Edna Nott of Floyd; nieces and nephews, Marian (Larry) Smith of Charles City; Arlene (Ken) Elliott of Charles City; Lyle (Karen) Nott of Iowa Falls, Iowa, and Dennis (Sarah) Nott of Boise, Idaho; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Harry was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret on July 18, 1997; two brothers, Ernest and Louis Voelker and his parents.

GREENE - Cecil Robert Cole, 93, of 211 South Fourth Street, Greene, died Tuesday, March 2, 2004, at the Liebe Care Center in Greene.

Memorial services will be held 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 6, 2004, at the United Methodist Church in Greene, with Pastor Ashok Patet and Pastor Mark Walker officiating. Inurnment will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene, at a later date.

There will be no visitation as his remains were cremated. The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. Friday at 410 North Fourth Street, Greene. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Cecil R. Cole Memorial Fund in care of the family at PO Box 512, Greene, Iowa 50836.

Reid's Funeral Chapel, Greene, (641) 823-4457 in charge of the arrangements.

                   Posted on 03/04/2004 by Gene Manning

WINTERSET, Iowa - Guy Michael Beard, 82, of Charles City died March 1, 2004, at the Chautauqua Nursing Home, Charles City

Funeral Services will be held today, March 5, 2004, at the Collins Oak Park Chapel in Winterset at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Winterset Cemetery.

Memorials may be made out to his family.

Living family members include: a son, Larry Beard (Karen), of Lima, Ohio; one daughter, Alma Beard, of Charles City; three brothers: Leo Smith of Peoria, Ill., Eldon Beard (Flossie) of Elk River, Minn., and Marvin Beard (Ellen) of Aurora, Col.; two sisters: Myrtle Reed of Eagle Grove, Iowa, and Gladys Kohler of Winterset, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Beulah Howell of Winterset; as well as four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

GREENE - Memorial services for Cecil Robert Cole, 93, of 211 South Fourth Street, Greene will be held 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 6, 2004, at the United Methodist Church in Greene with Pastor Ashok Patet and Pastor Mark Walker officiating. Inurnment will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Greene at a later date.

There will be no visitation as his remains were cremated. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, at 410 North Fourth Street, Greene. Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Cecil R. Cole Memorial Fund in care of the family at P. O. Box 512, Greene, Iowa 50636.

Cecil Robert Cole was born April 2, 1910, in Tama County a son of Robert and Ella Josephine (Dailey) Cole, and died Tuesday, March 2, 2004, at the Liebe Care Center in Greene.

He attended and graduated from Geneseo Consolidated School in Tama County in 1929. On Jan. 24, 1930, he married Jean Merritt at Geneseo Methodist Church. On Feb. 1, 1930, they moved to Greene where his father purchased the IH dealership from Lou Hesalroad. They operated Cole Implement until the business was sold to John McRoberts. He continued to work at the Implement until Feb. 1944, when Jean and Cecil moved to their farm east of Greene, where they resided until the spring of 2001, when they moved to their present home in Greene.

Cecil and Jean loved each other and together loved their family. They worked together in the operation of the farm and provided a home for their family. Cecil loved his IH Tractors.

He is survived by his loving wife of 74 years, Jean of Greene; and their children: Dean (Marilyn) Cole of Longville, Minn., and Paulette (Mike) Maxson of Greene; seven grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and five great-great- grandchildren.

Reid's Funeral Chapel, Greene, (641) 823-4457 in charge of arrangements.

                     Posted on 03/05/2004 by Gene Manning

IONIA - Raymond P. DeGeus, age 61, of rural Ionia, died Thursday, March 4, 2004, at the Methodist Hospital in Rochester, Minn., following a brief illness.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 8, 2004, at the Messiah Lutheran Church, Charles City, with burial in Sunnyside Memory Gardens Cemetery, rural Charles City.

Friends may call one hour prior to the funeral at the church. On-line memorial condolences for Raymond may be left at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Ray is survived by his wife, Mary; four daughters: Kelli (Rev. Jeff) Ungs of Clear Lake, Sheri (Duane) Howieson of Ellendale, Minn., Angie Bohlman of Owatonna, Minn., and Jessica (John) Frana of Cresco; two sons: Mitchell DeGeus of Charles City and Jake (fiance Sheli Burgart) DeGeus of Lakeville, Minn.; nine grandchildren; two sisters: Edna (Gar) Madeiros of Nevada, Iowa, and Mildred (Bruce) Culbertson of Titonka; and one brother, Ed (JoAnn) DeGeus of Britt.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in New Hampton, (641) 394-4334, is in charge of the arrangements.

                    Posted on 03/08/2004 by Gene Manning

ISLAND LAKE, Ill. - Donald and Victoria Tumilson wish to announce the birth of their special angel, Robert Josef Tumilson, on March 5, 2004. He was with us long enough to touch our lives until he passed away on March 7, 2004.

Besides his parents, he is survived by three brothers: Tim Ryan, Riley Tumilson and his twin brother Thomas Tumilson; his maternal grandparents Nancy (Richard) Mendyk and Jim Christensen; paternal grandparents Donald and Mary Tumilson, Sr.; maternal great-grandmother Daisy Brustle and paternal great-grandmother Viola Wiltse; aunts and uncles Michele (Les) Brock, Mike Alley, Toni Christensen and Heather Akers; many cousins and great-aunts and great-uncles.

He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents William Brustle and Jess and Hade Christensen and his paternal great-grandparents Thomas and Nell Tumilson and Orme Wiltse, Sr.

Visitation will be held at the Evangelical Free Church of Crystal Lake, 575 E. Crystal Lake Avenue on Friday, March 12, from 2 p.m. until the 3 p.m. funeral service. Burial will follow immediately after the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family would be appreciated.

For information call Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home at 815-459-1760, who is in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy Stoner, 88, a resident of McKinney, Texas, formerly of Charles City, died Monday, March 8, 2004, at the North Central Medical Center, McKinney, Texas.

Funeral services for Dorothy Stoner will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City. The Rev. David Werges, pastor of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday and an hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Dorothy Eleanor Curtis Stoner the daughter of Leon and Mabel Henry Curtis was born February 25, 1916, at Rowan. She graduated in 1934 from the Charles City High School. Dorothy and her mother owned and operated a neighborhood grocery store at 305 6th Avenue and after her mother's death she continued to operate the store until selling it in 1939. On September 26, 1936, she was united in marriage to Ross Stoner at Waterloo. Dorothy was a bookkeeper for Scott Barnett Plumbing and Heating and also for Homer Dobbs Coal and Oil for several years. In 1969 she became the Society Editor for the Charles City Press and held that position until her retirement in 1985. Dorothy was a lifelong member of the First Christian Church. She served on the church board, taught Sunday school, was superintendent of the children's department and was active in church circle. She was a Brownie Scout leader for five years. Dorothy was Worthy Advisor of Rainbow Girls and was awarded the Grand Cross of Colors, a lifetime membership. She was active in PTA and served as president at Lincoln School. As a member of the Pythian Sisters she held many chairs including Most Excellent Chief. In 1944 she received her 50 year membership pin. Other community organizations she belonged to included the Charles City Women's Club, YWCA and Floyd County Historical Society. Besides the many honors she received for her work at the Charles City Press, she was named in 19 "Who's Who" publications. Her many hobbies included crocheting, knitting and crafting. However, she will be most remembered for her cookie cutter collection that numbered over 6400.

Living family members include a daughter, Sybil and Don Carter of McKinney, Texas; two grandchildren, Janet and Daniel DeYear of Plano, Texas, and Stephen Carter of Hayward, Calif.; and three great grandchildren, Nicole, Connor and Ryan DeYear.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband on August 10, 1960, and a grandson, Jeffrey Carter.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City for Irma Hungerford, 91, of Mason City, formerly of Rockford, who died Tuesday, March 9, 2004, at the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Blanche I. Troutner, 93, formally of Charles City, passed away quietly Monday, March 8, 2004, in the Santa Maria Care Center in California.

A celebration of Blanche's life will be hosted by her family Saturday, March 13, at Sherm's Place, 813 N. Main, Charles City. Friends are invited and encouraged to attend.

Blanche is survived by her nine children: Ruby (Merlyn) Brown of Santa Maria, Calif., Roy and Clyde (Laura) Troutner of Escondido, Calif., Fran Harvey of Sunnyvale, Calif., Jessie Sharp of Seattle, Wash., Myrtie (Don) Gilbert of Cedar Rapids, Toni (Nick) Lokenvitz of Cedar Rapids, Terri Kim Troutner, New Hampton and Marsha Dawn Troutner of Cedar Rapids.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jess Troutner, a son-in-law Jim Sharp and three grandchildren.

"Mom" (Granny) will be greatly missed by her family and all those fortunate to have known her.

We will also miss her great laugh, sense of humor, her compassion and the way she loved us all.

IONIA - Charlie C. Crooks, age 91, of Ionia, died Monday, March 8, 2004, at the 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Funeral services are 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 11, 2004, at Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua with Pastor Linda Myren of the Little Brown Church officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Nashua with Kirby Fosse, Mike Link, Bob Lore, Brent Brase, Barry Klingman and Jerry Nosbisch as pallbearers.

Friends may call from 3 - 7 p.m. today, Wednesday, March 10, 2004, at the Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. On-line memorial condolences for Charlie may be left at www.hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Charlie was born September 11, 1912, in Ionia, the son of Marvin Nelson and Hattie Lucinda (Hickok) Crooks. He attended school in Ionia and graduated from the Ionia High School. In 1932, he began working for Gamble Robinson in Waterloo. On June 30, 1935, in Chickasaw, Iowa, he married Nellie Viola Link. The couple farmed north of Chickasaw for several years where their children were born. Charlie, Nellie and family moved to their home in Chickasaw, in March of 1952, where they raised their family. Charlie also worked at the Charles City Livestock Exchange until 1966, when it closed. He then worked for Ed Diesburg at the Skelly Station in Ionia until retiring in 1977. Nellie died on September 22, 1992. Charlie loved dancing, playing cards and making everyone laugh with his jokes. He especially enjoyed time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friend Evelyn.

Charlie is survived by a very special lady, Evelyn Nosbisch of Ionia; one daughter Diane (Dennis) Burnett of Nashua; a daughter-in-law Valery Crooks of Ionia; three grandchildren, Dena and Barry Klingman of Nashua, Angie and Brent Brase of Plainfield, Matthew Crooks and Kathy Sonne of Ionia; five great-grandchildren, Kory, Jordan and Gavin Klingman, McKala Liddle and Tristen Brase; one step great-granddaughter Lexi Brase; one sister Lucy (Orville) Backens of Rockford, Ill.; and one brother-in-law Louie (Mary) Link of Ionia.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a daughter, Sandra, in infancy; two sons: Dennis Crooks on June 11, 1962, and Dean Crooks on April 28, 1997; three sisters: Grace White, Pearl Myers and Beulah Heisler; and four brothers: Kenneth Crooks, Gerald Crooks, Keith Crooks and Paul LeRoy Crooks.

Hugeback & Chenoweth Funeral Homes in Nashua is in charge of arrangements.

                  Posted on 3/10/2004 by Gene Manning

Irma K. Hungerford, 91, a resident of the Good Shepherd Care Center, Mason City, formerly of Rockford, died Tuesday, March 9, 2004 at the Good Shepherd Care Center.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday, March 15, 2004, at the Hauser Funeral Home, Pastor Kenneth Kent, Rockford United Methodist Church, officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Sunday at the Hauser Funeral Home, and for one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

Irma Kathryn Rolfes was born December 12, 1912, in Ulster Township, the daughter of Edward J. and Laura A. (Bartz) Rolfes. She attended country school and Rockford High School before moving to Charles City and graduating from Charles City High School in 1930. Following high school, Irma taught country school and graduated from the Iowa Teachers College in 1934. Irma went to teach in the Mitchell School System for three years where she met and later married Laurence D. Hungerford on August 14, 1938, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. She then taught for 17 years at the Rockford Elementary School and for another 10 years as a substitute teacher. Irma was a member of the Chapter ED P.E.O. Sisterhood and the Order of the Eastern Star. She was also a 79-year member of the Rockford United Methodist Church. Irma enjoyed gardening, sewing, crocheting, knitting, bird watching, keeping the squirrels away from her bird feeders, and fishing with her grandson, Keith.

Irma is survived and lovingly remembered by her daughter, Barbara Jean (James) Ristau of Hampton; her grandchildren, Keith C. (Silvana) Ristau of Mesquite, Texas, and Marc C. (Stephanie) Ristau of Ankeny; step-daughters Ruth (Richard) Geary of Mason City and Bertha A. Skuster of Osage; great grandson Dylan Zachary Ristau of Mesquite, Texas; step grandchildren: Nancy (Rick) Miller of Annandale, N.J., David (Kate) Hungerford of Buda, Texas, Sally (John) Rode of Overland Park, Kan., Michael Geary of Iowa City, Daniel (Arlene) Geary of Colorado, Myra (Jim) Dixon of Oakland, Calif, and Marc (Jane) Skuster of Victorville, Calif.; step-great grandchildren Olivia Rode and Michael Rode of Overland Park, Kan., Callie Hungerford of Buda, Texas, Kelly Geary and Graham Geary of Colorado, Sarah Skuster of Victorville, Calif., and Alex Miller of Tempe, Ariz.; daughter-in-law Peggy Hungerford; and cousin Vernon (Donna) Drager of Rockford.

Irma was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, sons John Edward Hungerford and Roger Dean Hungerford, step-son Larry Hungerford, step-daughter Dorothy Pleasants, and step-granddaughter Lynn Brady Neuhaus.

Memorials may be directed to the Rockford United Methodist Church.

NASHUA - Paul E, Janssen, 94, died Thursday afternoon, March 11, 2004, at the New Hampton Rehab Center, New Hampton. Services are pending with Sunnyside Funeral Home in Charles City.

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Blanche I. Troutner, 93, formally of Charles City, passed away quietly Monday, March 8, 2004, in the Santa Maria Care Center in California.

A celebration of Blanche's life will be hosted by her family Saturday, March 13, at 4 p.m., at Sherm's Place, 813 N. Main, Charles City. Friends are invited and encouraged to attend.

Blanche is survived by her nine children: Ruby (Merlyn) Brown of Santa Maria, Calif., Roy and Clyde (Laura) Troutner of Escondido, Calif., Fran Harvey of Sunnyvale, Calif., Jessie Sharp of Seattle, Wash., Myrtie (Don) Gilbert of Cedar Rapids, Toni (Nick) Lokenvitz of Cedar Rapids, Terri Kim Troutner, New Hampton and Marsha Dawn Troutner of Cedar Rapids.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jess Troutner, a son-in-law Jim Sharp and three grandchildren.

"Mom" (Granny) will be greatly missed by her family and all those fortunate to have known her.

We will also miss her great laugh, sense of humor, her compassion and the way she loved us all.

                    Posted on 03/12/2004 by Gene Manning

Shirley A. Schmitt, 75, of 2499 185th St., Charles City, died Thursday, March 11, 2004, at her residence.

A funeral Mass will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 16, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Charles City. Monsignor Ervin J. Schmitt will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City where the Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. and where there will be a Vigil Scriptural Wake Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Tuesday at the church an hour prior to the Mass.

Shirley Ann Snyder was born February 19, 1929, in Granger, Minnesota, a daughter of Arthur and Elfreida "Pete" (Heisterkamp) Snyder. Shirley worked at Vivian's Beauty Shop during her high school years until her graduation from Immaculate Conception High School. She was united in marriage to Steve Schmitt on June 14, 1947, and lived in Charles City where she worked at Fisher Manufacturing until they bought the DX Station. In 1952 they bought the farm west of Charles City where she lived until her death. Her husband, Steve, passed away on July 31, 1979. Shirley was also employed at OK Hardware in Charles City and then at Floyd County Home Health Care for 11 years, where she retired in 1992. Shirley was a 4-H leader, served on the Immaculate Conception Church Parish Council, a member of St. Theresa's Circle, Rosary Society, and General Guild. She was also chairperson of the American Cancer Society, and belonged to Al-Anon and "Share Our Sorrow" and the "Make Today Count" groups. Shirley's favorite past times were reading, working crossword puzzles with her family, oil painting and especially traveling to visit her children in Florida, Colorado, Seattle and Japan. She will always be remembered for the smile she wore, the friendships she sustained and the courage she possessed during her illness.

Shirley is survived and lovingly remembered by her children: Stevie (Tom) O'Neill of Pensacola, Fla., Cheri (Rick) Houser of Estes Park, Colo, Dennis (Nancy) Schmitt of Charles City, Barb (Mike) Smith of Charles City, Deb (Phil) McIntire of Charles City, Craig (Jackie) Schmitt of Floyd, Jan (Steve) Craven of Lindenhurst, Ill., Kolleen (Dewey) Milligan of Charles City, Terri (Jim) Asbury of Honolulu, Hawaii; 27 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren; her brother Jim (Nancy) Snyder of Cedar Rapids, her sister Betty (Larry) Koesling of Menominee, Mich., her sister-in-law Lois Snyder of Raleigh, N.C., and Shirley was looking forward to the birth of two great-grandchildren.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, a great grandson Scotty O'Neill, and a brother, Ray Snyder.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

GREENE, Iowa - Funeral services for Louis A. Litterer, 88, formerly of 615 North First Street, Greene, will be 10:30 a.m. Monday March 15, 2004, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greene with Pastor Paul Uzel officiating. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene where there will be a public Scripture and Service of Remembrance at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church one hour before services on Monday.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Louis Litterer Memorial Fund in care of the family.

Louis A. Litterer was born February 10, 1916, in Pleasant Grove Township, Floyd County, a son of Fred and Mary (Scheidecker) Litterer, and died Friday, March 12, 2004, at the Liebe Care Center in Greene with his loving family at his bedside.

He received his education in the rural Pleasant Grove Township School and as a young man started farming southeast of Greene. On October 3, 1938, he was united in marriage to Mabel A. Johnson at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. To this union were born seven children. Louie and Mabel farmed southeast of Greene for 54 years before moving into Greene in 1992. They moved into the Liebe Care Center in December 1999.

Louie was proud to be a farmer and worked hard at building up his farming operation and providing for his family. His farming interests included dairy farming, raising Hampshire Hogs and sheep. He was a dealer for Crows Seed Co. for many years. He enjoyed working with horses on the farm and as a pastime.

He was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church of Greene, where he served as a trustee and elder of the church. He was a member of the Greene Retirement Housing Board, vice president of the Butler County Association for Retarded Citizens, volunteer for the Hawkeye Valley Meals on Wheels. Louie was always willing to help out in the neighborhood wherever there was a need.

Living family members include his loving wife Mabel of Greene; four daughters: Wilma (Wayne) Schmitt of Forest Lake, Minn., Loretta (Loren) Johnson of Springfield, Ill., Carol Herrmann of Oregon,Wisc., Phyllis Litterer of Clear Lake, three sons: Charles (Maggie) Litterer of Mansfield, Texas, Donald (Judy) Litterer of Shell Rock, and Merlin (Linda) Litterer of Greene; 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren; one sister: Anna (Francis) Brinkman of Greene; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister: Eva Horn; one brother: Leonard Litterer; and one great-granddaughter: Jennifer Lynn Litterer.

Reid's Funeral Chapel, 519 North First Street, Greene, 641-823-4457 in charge of arrangements.

TERRIL, Iowa - Funeral services for LaVonne M. Willemssen, 82, of Terril, Iowa, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 16, 2004, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Milford, Iowa. Interment will be held in Fairview Cemetery in Terril.

Mrs. Willemssen, the mother of Dennis Willemssen of Charles City, passed away Saturday, March 13, 2004, at the Milford Nursing Center in Milford.

Visitation will begin today, March 15, at 2 p.m. at Turner Funeral Home in Milford, with the family present from 5-7 p.m. There will be a Parish Vigil Service tonight beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

The Turner Funeral Home of Milford, (712) 338-4661, is in charge of the arrangements.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - John R. Oldham, Sr., age 76, formerly of Charles City, passed away at his residence in Florida on Saturday, March 13, 2004. A Memorial Mass will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 16, at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Jacksonville.

John is the father of Trisha Ann Barnish (husband John) and sons August Meyer and Allan Meyer (Heather), all of Charles City.

Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, (904) 355-5641, is in charge of the arrangements.

NASHUA - Paul Emil Janssen, 94, of Nashua, died Thursday, March 11, 2004, at the New Hampton Rehab Center.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 16, 2004, at the Nashua United Methodist Church in Nashua, with the Rev. Marion Sindt officiating. Burial will be at Sunnyside Memory Gardens, Charles City.

Visitation will be Monday, March 15, from 4-7 p.m. at Sunnyside Funeral Home, Charles City, where the family will receive friends from 4-7 p.m. It will continue the day of the funeral, from10 a.m. until service time at the church.

Paul was born January 29, 1910, near Westgate, Iowa. He was the son of Willie and Emilie (Kraatz) Janssen. He had five brothers and two sisters. At age four, following the death of his mother, Paul was taken to Remington, Ind., to live with an aunt and uncle. At age seven, He returned to Iowa to live in Rockford with his father, where he helped him and other farmers in the area. He was educated in a country school near his home. On January 27, 1932, Paul was united in marriage to Ferne Johnson of Rockford, and to this union five children were born.

Paul and Ferne started farming in March of 1936 near Nashua, and continued farming until he retired in 1972 to an acreage near Nashua. Paul worked for Meinerz Creamery in Fredericksburg for three years.

In addition to his wife, Ferne, Paul is survived by four of his children: Jean Janssen of Fort Madison, Iowa, Alvin (Pat) Janssen of Dover, Ark., Janice Kraus of Mason City and Arlen (Mary) Janssen of Nashua; 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and one great great-grandson; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, one granddaughter, five brothers and two sisters.

A memorial has been established in Paul's name. Contributions may be left at the Sunnyside Funeral Home.

                Posted on 03/15/2004 by Gene Manning

William A. Harris, 76, of Charles City, died Sunday, March 14, 2004, at the 9th St. Chautauqua Guest Home, Charles City.

A funeral mass will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Hauser Funeral Home with a Rosary Service at 4:30 p.m. and a Scripture Service to be held at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

NASHUA - Paul Emil Janssen, 94, of Nashua, died Thursday, March 11, 2004, at the New Hampton Rehab Center.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 16, 2004, at the Nashua United Methodist Church in Nashua, with the Rev. Marion Sindt officiating. Burial will be at Sunnyside Memory Gardens, Charles City.

Visitation will be Monday, March 15, from 4-7 p.m. at Sunnyside Funeral Home, Charles City, where the family will receive friends from 4-7 p.m. It will continue the day of the funeral, from10 a.m. until service time at the church.

Paul was born January 29, 1910, near Westgate, Iowa. He was the son of Willie and Emilie (Kraatz) Janssen. He had five brothers and two sisters. At age four, following the death of his mother, Paul was taken to Remington, Ind., to live with an aunt and uncle. At age seven, He returned to Iowa to live in Rockford with his father, where he helped him and other farmers in the area. He was educated in a country school near his home. On January 27, 1932, Paul was united in marriage to Ferne Johnson of Rockford, and to this union five children were born.

Paul and Ferne started farming in March of 1936 near Nashua, and continued farming until he retired in 1972 to an acreage near Nashua. Paul worked for Meinerz Creamery in Fredericksburg for three years.

In addition to his wife, Ferne, Paul is survived by four of his children: Jean Janssen of Fort Madison, Iowa, Alvin (Pat) Janssen of Dover, Ark., Janice Kraus of Mason City and Arlen (Mary) Janssen of Nashua; 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and one great great-grandson; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, one granddaughter, five brothers and two sisters.

A memorial has been established in Paul's name. Contributions may be left at the Sunnyside Funeral Home.

                Posted on 03/16/2004 by Gene Manning

Cynthia "Cindy" L. Zirbel, 53, of 405 Ferguson St., Charles City, died early Monday evening, March 15, 2004, at the Waverly Health Center Hospital, Waverly, Iowa, as the result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident near Waverly.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 19, 2004, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City, with Rev. David Werges officiating. Interment will take place in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

The family will greet friends from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City. The visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.

Those wishing to extend memorials may direct them to the Cynthia "Cindy" L. Zirbel Memorial Fund in the care of her husband, Jim Zirbel, 405 Ferguson St., Charles City, IA 50616 or St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City, IA 50616.

Fullerton Hage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, (641) 228-4211 www.fullertonfh.com, is in charge of the arrangements.

William A. Harris, 76, of Charles City, died Sunday, March 14, 2004, at the 9th St. Chautauqua Guest Home, Charles City.

A funeral mass will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Hauser Funeral Home with a Rosary Service at 4:30 p.m. and a Scripture Service to be held at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

William Arthur Harris was born January 8, 1928 in Milan, Mo., the son of David A. and Martha (Ross) Harris. The family moved to Iowa when Bill was five years old. Bill graduated from Charles City High School in 1946 and was united in marriage to Mary "Dolly" McCauley on August 5, 1950, in Austin, Minn. Bill worked for White Farms and was later a police officer in Charles City. He then went to work for North Iowa Express as a truck driver for 20 years, after which he retired. Bill loved archery, he went bow hunting for deer every year, and he also enjoyed fishing.

Bill is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary "Dolly" McCauley; his children: Jim Harris of Nashua, Linda Harris of Charles City, Jolene (Jim) Aehler of Solon, Kathy Harris of Charles City, and Jennifer (Tom) Covington of Brandon; nine grandchildren; one granddaughter-in-law; his sister, Eva Sue Sinran of Clarksville, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and one sister.

MARBLE ROCK - Nancy R. Reams, 58, of 405 Blank St., Marble Rock, died Monday evening (March 15, 2004) at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa following a sudden illness.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday at the Marble Rock United Methodist Church, 208 Iowa St., in Marble Rock. Rev. Kenneth Kent will officiate her service. Interment will be in Westside Cemetery, rural Marble Rock.

The family will greet friends from 5 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday at Fullerton Funeral Home, 302 West Main St., in Rockford. The visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday in Marble Rock.

Those wishing to extend memorials or expressions of sympathy may wish to direct them to the Nancy R. Reams Memorial Fund.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, (641) 423-8676 www.fullertonfh.com, is in charge of the arrangements.

                 Posted on 03/17/2004 by Gene Manning

MARBLE ROCK - Nancy R. Reams, 58, of 405 Blank St., Marble Rock, died Monday evening, March 15, 2004, at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa following a sudden illness.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday at the Marble Rock United Methodist Church, 208 Iowa St., in Marble Rock with Rev. Kenneth Kent officiating. Interment will be in Westside Cemetery, rural Marble Rock.

The family will greet friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday at Fullerton Funeral Home, 302 West Main St., in Rockford. The visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday in Marble Rock.

Those wishing to extend memorials or expressions of sympathy may wish to direct them to the Nancy R. Reams Memorial Fund in the care of her husband, Charles Reams, 405 Blank St., Marble Rock, IA 50653.

Nancy Rae Reams was born August 16, 1945, at her grandmother's home in Bristow, Iowa, to Marion Ray and Dorothy Jane (Stewart) Gibson. She was the youngest daughter of five children born to her parents. As a child, her father fondly nicknamed her "Shorty." Nancy attended school in Greene.

Nancy met her future husband, Charles E. Reams, at the creamery in Greene. The couple was united in marriage at the Methodist Church in Bristow on May 29, 1964. Together, they enjoyed playing "500" in a local card club and spending quiet time with each other. This coming May, Nancy and Charles would have celebrated their 40th anniversary. Nancy and Charles became the proud parents of three children.

Nancy was a "people person" and enjoyed assisting anyone in any capacity. She was active on the Area Betterment Council (ABC) and since May of 1977, was the editor of the Marble Rock Journal Pebblestone News. She was a life-long resident of the Marble Rock and Greene area.

Nancy was a devoted wife and nurturing mother and grandmother. She is described by her family as a very loving and non-judgmental woman, a great listener and easy person to talk to. They claim that Nancy will be well-remembered for her great potato salad. Throughout the years, she has treasured attending her children school and sports activities. She was thrilled to be a grandmother and supporting their activities.

Some of Nancy's favorite leisure activities and interests included baking cookies, preparing for the holidays; especially Christmas, cross-stitching, embroidery and creating craft items. She was an avid country music fan and was fond of Ricky Van Sheldon's recordings.

Nancy will be missed dearly by all who have shared in her life.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Reams of Marble Rock; her son, Terry (Jessica) Reams of Parkersburg; her daughter, Tracy (Mark) Tomlinson of Kensett ; her mother, Dorothy Gibson of Greene,; her two sisters, Patricia (Robert) Junker of Meservey and Lynda (Mel) Primmer of New Hartford and her brother, Gary (LouAnn) Gibson of Greene. Nancy will also be sadly missed by her grandchildren, Tyler, Lyndsey, Ryen and Dylen Reams of Parkersburg and many other relatives and friends.

Nancy is preceded in death by her daughter, Tina Reams in 1964, her father, Marion Gibson in 1967, her brother, David Gibson and two nephews, Wayne Junker and Jason Fiddick.

Fullerton Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, (641) 423-8676 www.fullertonfh.com, is in charge of the arrangements.

Herman "Herm" D. Putney, 69, of Charles City, died Tuesday, March 16, 2004, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital.

Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Riverside Cemetery, Charles City. Visitation will be held from 5 - 9 p.m. Friday at the Hauser Funeral Home. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.

Herman D. Putney was born March 24, 1934, in Charles City, the son of Herman E. and Clara Louise (Parker) Putney. Herman served in the United States Marine Corp. during the Korean War. Herman was a truck driver most of his life, retiring in 1996. He enjoyed fishing, gambling, and always lived life to the fullest.

Herman is survived and lovingly remembered by his children: Darrell Putney of Charles City, Wes (Bobbie Jo) of Charles City, Mike Putney of Longview, Texas, and Kathy (Adam) Mackeey of Longview, Texas; 14 grandchildren, one great-grandson, six brothers, two sisters; his special friend Bertie Parker; and a special fishing buddy, Dr. Kevin Kimm.

Herman was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Cynthia "Cindy" L. Zirbel, 53, of 405 Ferguson St., Charles City, died early Monday evening, March 15, 2004, at the Waverly Health Center in Waverly, Iowa, as the result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident near Waverly.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 19, 2004, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City, with Rev. David Werges officiating. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Charles City.

The family will greet friends from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Main St., Charles City. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. Those wishing to extend memorials may direct them to Cynthia "Cindy" L. Zirbel Memorial Fund in the care of her husband, Jim Zirbel 405 Ferguson St. Charles City, IA 50616 or St. John Christian Preschool, 200 S Main St. Charles City, IA 50616.

Cynthia Louise Zirbel was born in Waterloo, Iowa, July 27, 1950, the daughter of Edwin and Alberta Jean (Roepke) Benedict, she was one of four children. Cindy had spent her entire life in Charles City, where she had attended school and graduated from Charles City High School, class of 1968. On February 14, 1971, Cindy was united in marriage to James Lyle Zirbel at St. James Lutheran Church in Mason City. Cindy was the assistant director and a teacher at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church Christian Preschool in Charles City. She was a very caring and faithful member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Cindy devoted her time as a longtime member of the City Park and Recreation Board as well as the St. John Christian Preschool Board. She was a very kind, nurturing person, beloved wife, mother and grandmother. Cindy was committed to getting young people headed in the right direction, a real asset to her community. Cindy's interest and leisure activities included spending time with her family and grandchildren, biking, walking, driving her "red" pickup truck, sewing, reading and was an avid fan watching Chicago "White Sox" baseball.

Cynthia will be fondly remembered by family and friends who shared in her life. Those grateful for having had the privilege of sharing in Cindy's life are her loving husband, James "Jim" Zirbel; her four children, Shelby Zirbel of Charles City; Katie Zirbel of Minneapolis, Minn.; Benjamin (Anna) Zirbel of Tallahassee, Fla., and Nicholas "Nick" (Lacey) Zirbel of Charles City; two grandchildren, Anthony and Jamison Zirbel; her parents, Edwin and Alberta Jean Benedict of Charles City; her sister, Rebecca Benedict (Gary) Meissler of Northfield, Minn. ; two brothers, Randall (Sue) Benedict of Fridley, Minn., and Gregory (Yvonne) Benedict of Clear Lake, Iowa; three nieces, Rachel, Naomi and Jessica and one nephew, Sean.

Cynthia was preceded in death by her grandparents, Lewis and Vera Roepke; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Lyle and Betty Zirbel and a brother-in-law, Jerry Zirbel.

Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Service, (641) 228-4211, is in charge of the arrangements.

                 Posted on 03/18/2004 by Gene Manning

Beverly "Bev" White, 55, of 1901 Salzer St., Charles City, passed away Friday, March 19, 2004 at Allen Memorial Hospital, Waterloo.

Funeral Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Monday at the Hauser Funeral Home. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.

Bev was born December 30, 1948, in Osage, the daughter of William and Irene (Faas) Neis. Bev attended school in Osage and graduated in 1968. Bev moved to Charles City in 1969. She married Larry White and had six children; Rodney, Ronnie, Lorra, Amy, Susie and Rosaland. Bev enjoyed cooking. She worked at many restaurants in Charles City, Brooks, The Elks and, most recently, The Uptown, where she has cooked for many years. Bev enjoyed going to auctions, craft shows, and spending time with her family and friends. Bev was a devoted grandmother to Kelsey, Michael, Ashley, Jacob, Lillian, Abbigail, Emma, Cole, Kaitlyn and Amanda.

Bev will be remembered by her father, William Neis of Osage; a son, Ron White and fiance Holly Rahlf of Charles City; four daughters: Lorra (Keith) Stiles of Rock Falls, Amy White, Susie White and Rose White and fiance Corey Pettit, all of Charles City; three brothers: Bob (Myrna) Neis of Mason City, Den Neis of Tripoli and Mike (Carolyn) Neis of Osage; 10 grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Bev was preceded in death by her mother Irene Neis, a son Rodney "Whitey" White, a sister-in-law Satoe "Rummy" Neis, and special friends Kay and Gordy.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

                Posted on 03/22/2004 by Gene Manning

Lyle Stevens, of Pasadena, Calif., for over 50 years and formerly of Charles City, passed away suddenly from an interaction of medications.

He leaves his wife of almost 60 years, Hazel (Haight); two children; six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Lyle was always instrumental in helping to arrange the Charles City picnic that was held annually in Calfornia for 30 years. His heart was always with his friends in Iowa.

                 Posted on 03/24/2004 by Gene Manning

Leonard Pierson, 86, of Charles City, died Saturday, March 27, 2004, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

A memorial service for Leonard Pierson will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Trinity United Methodist Church. Pastor Gayle Wilcox will officiate. Burial will be in Sunnyside Memory Gardens.

The family will greet friends at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and at the church an hour prior to the service.

Leonard Edward Pierson was born September 7, 1917, in Chickasaw County, the son of Edward and Nettie (Augenstein) Pierson. He graduated from the Charles City High School in 1936. On June 27, 1939, he was united in marriage to Marjorie Spurbeck at Spencer. Leonard had been employed at Oliver/White Farm Equipment Company for 36 years, retiring in 1975. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, and the Masonic Lodge where he acted as Rainbow Dad of the Order of Rainbow for girls and was awarded the Grand Cross of Color for his service. Leonard enjoyed life and had a passion for riding horses. He spent many hours riding horses with his grandchildren. Leonard will be remembered for his love of people and his ability to converse with anyone.

Living family members include his wife, Marge of Charles City; a daughter, Connie (Kenneth) Swant of Charles City; four grandchildren, Tammy Elthon, Lori Phelps, Bradley Swant, and Terry Swant; six great grandchildren; and a sister, Edna Durst of Shopiere, Wis.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters.

The Family suggests memorials be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church or Hospice of North Iowa Charles City site.

Floyd Garber, 82, a resident of 700 Freeman Street, Charles City, died Friday, March 26, 2004, at his residence.

Graveside services for Floyd Garber will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at Sunnyside Memory Gardens, rural Charles City. The Rev. Ruth Yeaton, pastor of First Baptist Church, will officiate. Friends are welcome to meet at the Hauser Funeral Home by 1:15 p.m. Tuesday and process to the cemetery with the family.

Visitation for Floyd Garber will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City.

Floyd Seldon Garber was born November 30, 1921, in Marble Rock, the son of Guy and Zoe (Mills) Garber. He graduated from the Marble Rock High School. Floyd served with the United States Army in Europe during World War II. On February 18, 1950, he was united in marriage to Marion Schmidt at Charles City. Floyd was employed at Salsbury Laboratories from 1951 to 1984. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, the Charles City Rock Club, the Allison Stamp Club, Senior Citizens Center, and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Floyd's favorite pastimes were playing cards, and bingo.

Living family members include his wife, Marion, of Charles City, a son, Paul (Tammie) Garber of Nora Springs, and a daughter, Janet Garber of Charles City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son, Wayne Garber, a sister, Viola Johnson, and two brothers, Ora and Ulysses Garber.

Thomas D. Conklin, 92, of Nashua passed away Friday afternoon, March 26, 2004, at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in Charles City.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 30, 2004, at St. John Lutheran Church with burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, both in Nashua. Visitation will be Monday, 4 to 7 p.m. at the Hugeback and Chenoweth Funeral Home in Nashua, and one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday.

Tom is survived by one brother, Robert Conklin, of Orange Cty, Fla..; six nieces: Nancy Bishop of Trimont, Minn.; Kathy Eiden of St. James, Minn.; Mary Bliesmer of North Mankato, Minn.; Shirley Moore of Hissboro, Ore.; Sally Smith of Fairview, Ore.; and Claudia Hutchins of Deltona, Fla. Four nephews: Roger Mathwig of Truman, Minn.; James Fouch of Ventura, Calif.; Tom Fouch of Lakewood, Colo.; and Bob Conklin of Anchorage, Alaska. He was also survived by a cousin, Wayne Broisma of Dunnell, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Leila, on Jan. 29, 2004; is parents; one brother: Gordon Conklin; two sisters: Margaret Fouch and Alice Humphries.

Thomas Dudley Conklin was born Jan. 24, 1912, in Fairmont, Minn., the son of Percy and Florence (Sackett) Conklin. He was baptized at the Methodist Church in Fairmont. Tom graduated from Fairmont High School in 1930. He was united in marriage to Leila Mathwig on Nov. 9, 1939, at her parent's home in Dunnell, Minn. They lived in New Ulm, Minn. after their marriage. Tom was inducted into the U.S. Army in 1942. They lived in Pennsylvania and Wyoming before Tom was sent to the Philippines, where he served as a captain in Army Intelligence until his discharge in 1947. Following his discharge, they moved back to New Ulm, where Tom worked for the newspaper. In 1952, Tom and Leila purchased the Nashua Reporter and moved to Nashua. There they worked hand in hand for nearly 40 years. Tom never fully retired as he continued to write his "Column Left" and "Along the Lake" columns.

Tom was active in his community and church. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Lion's Club, Masonic Lodge and American Legion.

Virginia Kolbet, of Charles City, died Sunday, March 28, 2004, at her residence.

A funeral Mass for Virginia Kolbet will be held at10:30 a.m. Thursday, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. The Rev. Carl Ries, pastor, will celebrate the Mass. Burial will be at 1:30 p.m.in St. Mary's Cemetery, Roseville.

Friends may call at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday where the Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. and a Vigil Scriptural Wake Service will be held at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church an hour prior to the Mass.

Virginia Nina Nixt Kolbet was born September 24, 1921, at Marble Rock, the daughter of Joseph and Emma (Niklas) Nixt. She attended the Marble Rock High School, where as a member of the band she played clarinet, graduating in 1938. Virginia worked as a housekeeper for her Uncle Mathias Nixt and Aunt Lena Nixt. On May 1, 1946, she was united in marriage to Luvern Kolbet at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Roseville. They farmed at various locations near Alta Vista and in 1965 moved to a farm near Marble Rock where they would remain until moving to Charles City in 1994. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Roseville Rosary Society, and had served as a 4-H Leader. Her hobbies included cooking, especially breads and pies, reading, and working crossword puzzles. She thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors, going on walks or working in her vegetable or flower gardens. Virginia's family was very important to her and the time she spent with her grandchildren was always very special.

Living family members include her husband of 57 years, Luvern of Charles City, seven children, Paula of Sioux City, Steven Kolbet of Marble Rock and his special friend Carolyn Hedlund, Chuck (Gloria) Kolbet of Manchester, Marlene (Dan) Greeny of Allen, NE, Nancy (Mike) Hogle, of Manteca, CA, Karen (Mike) Newman of Clarion, and Kim (Brian) Mason of Belmond; twelve grandchildren, Rae Kolbet, Matt Kolbet, Maranda Kolbet Brock, MacKenzie Kolbet, Mason Kolbet, Weston Hogle, Callie Hogle, Laurel Raasch, Alisa Newman, Hillary Newman, Lindsey Mason, and Madelyn Mason; three great grandchildren, Keegan and Kinley Kolbet and Shayla Cole; and two sisters, Helen Welch of Marble Rock, and Dorothy Hayungs of Holland.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Frank and Leo Nixt, and a sister, Marion "Pinky" Smith.

                  Posted on 03/29/2004 by Gene Manning

Funeral services for Jean Marie VanDenBroeke, 65, of Charles City and formerly of Tyler, Minn., will be Wednesday, March 31, 2004, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Dionysius Catholic Church in Tyler, Minn. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be today, Tuesday, March 30, 2004, 4 - 8 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. at the Tyler Area Funeral Home in Tyler, Minn. Visitation will continue on Wednesday one hour prior to services. The Tyler Area Funeral Home, Kulow Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

Jean Marie VanDenBroeke was born July 5, 1938, in Tyler, Minn., to Jacob and Mary (Persoon) Bakker. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Dionysius Catholic Church in Tyler. Jean graduated from Tyler High School in 1956.

Jean and her family farmed near Hendricks, Minn., for 12 years and then operated the locker in Lake Benton for a short while. In 1962, the family moved to an acreage near Charles City, Iowa, and in 1973 they moved into Charles City. While in Charles City, Jean helped in remodeling projects on old buildings. Jean worked various other jobs while in Iowa. After her children were grown she lived in Boone, Iowa and Ames, Iowa. In 1995 she returned to Tyler and lived there until 2000 when she moved back to Charles City. Jean enjoyed cooking, dancing, and traveling all over the United States. The time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, was most important to her. Jean had an inviting personality and became friends with everyone she met and always treated them like family. She was a member of St. Dionysius Catholic Church and the Council of Catholic Woman.

On March 27, 2004, Jean Marie VanDenBroeke died at the Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City at the age of 65 years, 8 months, and 22 days.

She is survived by her children; Diane Tommingo of Charles City, Donna (Dean) Reicks of Cresco, Iowa, Dennis (Denise) VanDenBroeke of Clear Lake, Iowa, Dale (DeNeitt) VanDenBroeke of Spencer, Iowa, and Dick (Tyna) VanDenBroeke of Runnels, Iowa, and 15 grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings; Yvonne (Don) Wartner of Starbuck, Minn., Joyce (Buzz) Dass of Lake Benton, Jerry (Ellen) Bakker of Sioux Falls, S.D., Jim (JoAnn) Bakker of Worthington, Linda Guild of Tracy, Catherine (Mike) Davis of Farmington, Bonnie (Dave) Gruis of Lake Park, Iowa, and Barb Hansen and friend Wayne of Boulder City, Nev.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jacob & Mary Bakker.

SUMTER, South Carolina - Mabel Leota Kreklau, 77, died in her sleep on March 8, 2004, at her home, 1324 Cherryvale Drive, Sumter, South Carolina. A viewing was held at Bullock Funeral Home at the direction of Don Odom on Wilson Hall Road from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., Wednesday, March 10, 2004. Funeral services were officiated by Chaplain Captain Cliff Short at the Palmetto Chapel aboard Shaw A.F.B. at 11 a.m., Thursday, with processional to Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery immediately afterwards. A farewell reception was then held at the Sumter County Exhibition Center on West Liberty Street.

Mabel was born on December 19, 1926, at the farm in Ionia, Chickasaw County, Iowa to Ross Revelle Caster and Clara Mae Crooks Caster. She was a clerk in J.C. Ruggles Grocery Store, Nashua, before being wed to Henry Alvin Kreklau on February 2, 1947 in the historic Little Brown Church of Nashua, Iowa. Afterwards, she applied her domestic engineering skills worldwide, accompanying her husband of 57 years wherever the U.S. Air Force felt necessary.

In addition to Colonel Henry A. Kreklau, SCA, she is survived by their son, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Lynn Kreklau of Twentynine Palms, Cal., and daughter Kathleen Kay Kreklau of Sumter. Mabel is also survived by a sister Eva Mae and husband Fred Hauser of Nashua, a sister-in-law Betty Jean Caster of Charles City; a brother Ralph Marion Caster and wife Ilene of Fort Collins, Col.; and a sister Vera Ethel and husband Lawrence W. Bunston of Ionia.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers Clarence Revelle Caster, Dale Ross Caster and Glenn James Caster, all of Iowa.

Jerry and Linda Jones served as vocalist and organist, respectively. Guest organist, Donna R. Pierce of Nashua, performed Church in the Wildwood.

Pallbearers were Marvin C. Berg, William B. Summerlin, George H. Dutcher, Carl C. DuBose, Donald G. Albright, and John A. Urban.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions were asked to be made to the American Heart Association or the American Lung Association. Online memorial messages may still be sent to the family at www.bullockfuneralhome.com.

GREENE - Funeral services for Bertha Rague Kraft, 89, of 306 West South Street, Greene, will be 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, March 31, 2004, at the United Methodist Church in Greene with Pastor Ashok Patet officiating. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery in Charles City.

Visitation will be 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., today, Tuesday, March 30, 2004, at Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene, and will continue Wednesday at the church one hour before services.

Alberta Miller was born December 25, 1914 in rural Dumont, Butler County, the second child of Henry H. and Hattie (Gruis) Miller, and died Sunday, March 28, 2004, at the Muse Norris Hospice Unit in Mason City.

She was baptized on May 4, 1919 and received her education in the country schools near Dumont. She was united in marriage to Earle Everett Rague in December 1932 at the Reformed Church in Dumont. They made their home in Greene and to this union were born four children. Earle died October 24, 1967.

On February 5, 1973, she was united in marriage to George Kraft at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. George died in October 1997.

Bertha provided for her family through vegetable gardening, canning, cooking, with the memories of the flavors, smells, and warmth from her kitchen. She will be remembered as the lady with the green thumb. She worked countless hours on her flower garden, raising house plants, and keeping her home immaculate inside and out. She enjoyed traveling, shopping, and eating out at the Royal Fork and Bonanza. Bertha always said that she wasn't going to die because she hadn't started living.

Living family members include her daughter Eloise (Robert) O'Brien of Greene; three sons Eugene (Deanna) Rague of Mason City, Donald (Phyllis) Rague of Charles City, Roger (Marlene) Rague of Phoenix, Ariz.; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 3 great great-grandchildren; four sisters Dena Hansen and Kathleen Schempf both of Lakewood, Col., Alice (John) Heinz of Charles City, Lucille Hansen of Waterloo; two brothers Daniel Miller of Greene and Les Miller of Portland.

She was preceded in death by her two husbands, her parents, three brothers William, Vernon and Harry; and a grandson David Rague.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may direct memorials to the Bertha Rague Kraft Memorial Fund in care of the family.

Reid's Funeral Chapel in Greene is in charge of arrangements.

                  Posted on 03/30/2004 bt Gene Manning

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City for Harry Eliasen, 92, of Greene, formerly of Charles City, who died Tuesday, March 30, 2004, at the his residence.

                   Posted on 03/31/2004 by Gene Manning