Funeral services for Zane Rollins of LeRoy, MN were held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 3 at the LeRoy Ostrander High School Auditorium. Interment was in the Chester Hill Cemetery in rural Chester. Hindt-Hutchins Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Zane, 15, died Wednesday, December 1, 1999 at his home in LeRoy.

Zane Gregory Rollins was born January 6, 1984 in Austin, MN, the son of Greg and Sandy Rollins. He was attending LeRoy Ostrander High School where he was a sophomore.

Zane’s greatest love was his family and friends especially his older brother James. He loved animals including his three cats, and sporting events especially the LeRoy football games.

Survivors include his parents Greg and Sandy Rollins of LeRoy; one brother: James of Minneapolis; maternal grandparents Mr. and Mrs. James Galloway of Chester and paternal grandmother Lillian Rollins of Rushford, MN.

John Leist

Funeral services for John Leist of Alexander were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 4 at United Church of Rowan. The Rev. Joan Skyrme officiated. Interment was in Graceland Cemetery in Rowan. Dugger Ewing Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

John, 83, died Wednesday, December 1, 1999 at the Belmond Health Care Center in Belmond.

John William Leist was born May 26, 1916 on the family farm in rural Humboldt County, the son of Joseph and Hannah (Hetherington) Leist. He grew up in the Humboldt area, and began farming on a farm in Wester County, west of Badger.

John was united in marriage with Virginia Davis in September of 1939 in Bethany, MO. In 1966 John began farming in Howard County and continued to reside in Howard County until the early 1990s when he moved back to Alexander. John entered the Belmond Health Care Center in 1995.

Survivors include three sons: Robert of Rowan, Roger of Dows and Ronald of Rowan; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his wife Virginia in 1984; his parents; six sisters and six brothers.

Harold Tenney

Funeral services for Harold Tenney of Dyersville were held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, December 6 at the Kramer Funeral Home. Interment was in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Dyersville.

Harold, 71, died Thursday, December 2, 1999 at his home after a long illness.

Harold D. Tenney was born April 6, 1928 in Shelton, WA, the son of Dewain Chester and May Bell (Drinkall) Tenney. He served in the U.S. Navy in WWII.

On September 24, 1949 he married Sucyn (Susan) Ehlert in Spring Valley, MN. He was a bricklayer by trade and was the owner and operator of Marion Masonry from 1973-1980, then a Rapids Solar representative until he moved to Kent, WA where he was employed as a marble mason in Seattle, until his retirement in 1990.

Survivors include his wife, Susan; two sons: Robert and Jeffery of Cedar Rapids; two daughters: Julie Tenney of Dyersville and Barbara Mills of Forest City; five grandchildren; one step-grandchild; and three sisters: Etta Buntrock, Thelma Lick, and Joanne Stackhouse all of Denver, CO; and one brother: Clyde of Forest City.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; one grandchild; one sister, Dorothy Hobbs; and one brother, Hugh.

Harlan Baethke

Funeral services for Harlan Baethke were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 6 at Immanuel Lutheran Church. The Rev. Bruce Hobert officiated. Interment was in Oak Lawn Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Dan O’Brien, Dan Smith, Randall Pickar, Don Scharnweber, Pat Darland and Lawrence Peters. Honorary bearers were: Arnold Trouten, Harold Bengfort, Jim Ward, Leland McCarville, George Milbrath and Thomas Dvorak. Lindstrom Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Harlan, 74, died Friday, December 3, 1999 at Regional Health Services in Cresco.

Harlan John Baethke was born August 27, 1925 in Howard County, the son of John and Mathilda (Tillie Eberling) Baethke. His father died when he was one year old and the family moved to Cresco. He attended school in Cresco, graduating from Cresco High School in 1944.

On December 26, 1951 he married Mercedes Walter in Cresco and they continued to make their home here. He was employed by Cresco Milling Company, John Tuchek’s Lounge, Brahm Furniture, and Farmer’s Creamery, which later became Wisconsin Dairies. Harlan retired from Wisconsin Dairies after 25 years of employment.

He enjoyed taking members of Immanuel to and from the homebound communion services, and volunteering to prepare church newsletters for mailing.

Survivors include his wife, Mercedes; two sons: Mark of Zumbrota, MN and Brent of Minneapolis, MN; three grandchildren; and one sister, Hattie Lillegraven of Decorah.

Harlan was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Violet; and a brother, Reuben.

Shirley Hackley

Funeral services for Shirley Hackley of Alexander were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 7 at First Reformed Church in Alexander. The Rev. Rob Ford officiated. Interment was in Graceland Cemetery in Rowan. Dugger Ewing Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Shirley, 87, died Saturday, December 4, 1999 at the Belmond Health Care Center in Belmond.

Shirley L. Hackley was born October 7, 1912 in Rudd, the daughter of Thomas and Carrie (Bishop) Robeson. She grew up in the Rudd and Charles City area.

She was united in marriage with Leland Johnson in 1930. To this union two sons were born, Dale and Roger.

Shirley was later united in marriage with Glenn Hackley. Glenn died on May 26, 1965 and Shirley moved to Howard County in 1966 where she spent many years with her companion, John Leist. She entered the Belmond Health Care Center in 1995.

She attended the Methodist Church in Saratoga before moving back to the Alexander area.

Survivors include five grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Glenn; her parents; two sons: Dale and Roger; one grandson; one sister; and four brothers.

Melvin Borseth

Funeral services for Melvin Borseth of Decorah were held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 8 at First Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. Steven Jacobson officiated. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery in Castalia. Pall bearers were: Jack, Eric, Andy, John, Tim, Joe and Jeff Borseth, Joe Helgerson and Harlan Nesset. French & Balik Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Melvin, 83, died Sunday December 5, 1999 at the Postville Good Samaritan Center in Postville following a short illness.

Melvin A. Borseth was born February 7, 1916 in Glenwood Township. He attended country school in Glenwood Township. Melvin farmed near Frankville.

He married Violet Moore and to this union, Lyle was born. Melvin then moved to Arizona and worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad for 34 years, retiring as a conductor. He married Bertha in Arizona and to this union, two children, Jack and Beverly were born. He later married Clara Tucker and after she passed away, he moved back to the Decorah area and married Helen Halvorson on December 29, 1990 at the First Lutheran Church in Decorah.

Melvin was a member of the First Lutheran Church. He enjoyed fishing and traveling.

Survivors include his wife, Helen of Decorah; one son: Jack of Arizona; one daughter: Beverly Grittman of Chandler, AZ; 16 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; two step-daughters: Janice Helgeson of Spillville, and Pauline Tucker of California; two step-sons: Millard Tucker of Arizona, and Harlan Nesset of Norma, AZ.

Melvin was preceded in death by two wives: Violet and Clara; one son Lyle in January 1995; a step-daughter Melba; his parents; one brother: Duward and three sisters: Mildred, Viola and Leona.

Loretta Fisher

Funeral services for Loretta Fisher of Lawler were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 9 at Assumption Parish, Little Turkey. The Rev. Allen Schmitt officiated. Interment was in Oakhill Cemetery in Fort Atkinson. Pall bearers were: Jon Fisher, Bob Busch, Wayne Throndson, Dale Throndson, Janice Bear and Diane Patrick. Larkin-Martin-Hugeback Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Loretta, 85, died Monday, December 6, 1999 at a Fredericksburg nursing home of natural causes.

Loretta E. Fisher was born August 4, 1914 in Festina, the daughter of Ben and Dorothy (Tieskotter) Busch. She attended school in Festina.

On April 30, 1940 she married Leo Fisher at Sacred Heart Parish, Reilly Ridge. They farmed north of Lawler for the remainder of their lives.

Loretta was a member of Sacred Heart Parish, Reilly Ridge. She enjoyed growing a garden.

Survivors include three sons: Francis and Don both of Lawler, and Loras of Des Moines; two grandchildren; and three sisters: Regina Busch and Bernice Bear both of Waucoma, and Alice Peters of West Union.

Loretta was preceded in death by her husband Leo on January 4, 1977; her parents; and three brothers: Alfred, Hubert and Ewalt.

Edward Buhlman

Graveside services for Edward Buhlman of Hurst, TX were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 11 at St. Matthews Lutheran Cemetery in Granger, MN. Lindstrom Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Edward, 69, died Monday, December 6, 1999 at Harris Hospital in Bedford, TX.

Edward Buhlman was born July 2, 1930 in Harmony, MN, the son of Walter and Luella (Nieberline) Bohlman. After graduation he entered the Air Force. Edward later was a flight instructor for American Airlines.

Survivors include two grandsons; one great-grandson; and his mother, Luella Bulman of Granger.

Edward was preceded in death by his father.

Marilyn Cook

Funeral services for Marilyn Cook of Decorah were held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 10 at Decorah Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Jim Glesne officiated. Interment was in Phelps Cemetery. Pall bearers were her nephews: Scott Barth, Eric Barth, Keith Jones, Larry Melaas, Tom Decker, Matthew Barth, Mark Vick and friend, Byron Schultz. French & Balik Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Marilyn, 70, died Tuesday, December 7, 1999 at Winneshiek County Memorial Hospital in Decorah following a long illness.

Marilyn J. Cook was born March 10, 1929 at her parent’s home in Winneshiek County, the daughter of Alfred and Mae (Peterson) Barth. Marilyn was baptized on April 14, 1929 and confirmed on November 14, 1943 at Hauge Lutheran Church by Rev. Carl Loson. She attended school at Hesper Township School.

On January 29, 1955 she married Duane Edward Cook at the Hauge Lutheran Church by Rev. Glen Vanderbilt.

Marilyn enjoyed her flower gardens, putting puzzles together, doing hand embroidery, playing cards and watching the Atlanta Braves baseball games.

She was a member of the Decorah Lutheran Church and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

Survivors include her husband Duane of Decorah; four sons: Larry and Thomas both of Decorah, Bruce of Clear Lake, and Ricky of Decorah; two daughters: Connie Gerleman and Patricia Casterton both of Decorah; ten grandchildren; five brothers: Alton of Decorah, Ronald of Cedar Rapids, Bernard of Cedar Rapids, Gordon of Decorah and Paul of Denver; two sisters: Gloria Vick of Lewiston, MN, and Yvonne Barnes of Decorah.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents.

Ann McGee

Ann McGee, 51 died after bravely fighting cancer for more than four years. Ann was an inspiration to all who met her especially to other cancer survivors and support givers; Ann was a catalyst in bringing a new cancer treatment to the Twin Cities.

Ann earned a BA Degree from the University of Minnesota in 1969 and Law Degree from Hamlin University School of Law in 1977. Ann practiced law in the Twin Cities until her medical retirement in 1997.

Her mother and father, Ruth and Eldon “Mac” McGee of Minneapolis, preceded Ann in death. She is survived by her “better-than-a-husband” Richard “Rick” Hendrickson, Minneapolis, her “better-than-a-sister” Dede Doi, Rochester, brother and sister-in-law James and Nina McGee, Wilmington, NC, nieces and nephews Tom McGee Wilminton, NC, Lisa McGee, Denver, CO, Dan McGee, Des Moines, IA, Stephanie McGee Sandstead, Naperville, IL and Tammy McGee Benson, Titusville, FL, and aunts Gladys McGee, Minneapolis, Edith McGee Finnegan, Monterey, CA, Irene Harold McGee, Manchester, IA and Elizabeth “Bethe” McGee Schreiner, Lakeville, MN, and many special cousins and friends.

A reception to honor Ann’s life was held on Monday, December 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4343 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis, for all her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family very much requests memorials be sent to the Abbott Northwestern/Virginia Piper Cancer Institute or The Minneapolis Food Shelf.

Francis Humpal

Funeral services for Francis Humpal of Clear Lake, WI were held Saturday, December 11 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Clear Lake. The Rev. Joseph Trinka officiated. Interment was in Clear Lake Cemetery. Hammer Funeral Home of Clear Lake, WI was in charge of arrangements.

Francis, 75, died Wednesday, December 8, 1999 at his home.

Francis J. Humpal was born August 1, 1924 in Forest Township near Clear Lake, the son of Frank and Emma (Snyder) Humpal.

Survivors include one sister: Wilma Cress of Clear Lake, WI; and a brother: Alois Humpal of Deer Park, WI.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents, formerly of the Spillville area; one sister: Helen Novotny of Protivin; and two brothers: Joe and William of Wisconsin.

Marlowe Miller

Funeral services for Marlowe Miller of rural Elma were held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 18 at the Saude Evangelical Lutheran Church, rural Lawler. The Rev. Kent Dethlefsen officiated. Interment was in Saude Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Alvin Paulson, Jim Costello, J.A. Roberson, Bob Roberson, Rick Throndson, Mark Ptacek and Wally Johnson. Honorary pall bearers were: Orville Roberson and John Costello. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Marlowe, 67, died Wednesday, December 8, 1999 at his home of natural causes.

Marlowe Henry Miller was born July 1, 1932 on the Miller family farm near Elma, the son of Carl J. and Sigrid Munson Miller. He attended the local schools and was a graduate of New Hampton High School. He served with the United States Army after his schooling.

Marlowe was a lifelong member of the Saude Lutheran Church. He enjoyed all kinds of sports and was especially proud to be owner of Miller Century Farm. He farmed all his life and also, at one time, worked in construction.

Survivors include two brothers: Carmen of Cortez, CO, and Gayle of Webster City.

Marlowe was preceded in death by his parents.

Mabel Haberly

Funeral services for Mabel Haberly of New Hampton were held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 11 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton. The Rev. David Bergstrom officiated. Interment was in New Hampton Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Gerald Johnson, Wayne Moetsch, Art Borlaug, John R. Wilson, John G. Wilson and Ken Borger. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mabel, 99, died Thursday, December 9, 1999 at the New Hampton Care Center of natural causes.

Mabel Lovina Halverson was born June 24, 1900 at Mt. Sterling, WI, the daughter of Andrew Sever and Martha (Johnson) Halverson. Mabel worked in Decorah before her marriage to Fred Haberly on April 4, 1931 in Cresco. They moved to New Hampton in 1936, and owned and operated Haberly’s Hatchery. She moved to the New Hampton Care Center in 1996.

Mabel was an active member of the Trinity Lutheran Church for sixty years and was also active in the community.

Survivors include one daughter: Janet Mae Wilson of Ponte Vedra, FL; one son: Charles Fredrick of Ames; and five grandchildren.

Mabel was preceded in death by her husband Fred in 1971 and her parents.

Clarence Marhoul

Funeral services for Clarence Marhoul of Calmar were held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 11 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Calmar. The Rev. Donald Hawes officiated. Interment was in St. Aloysius Catholic Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Matt Novak, Jason Novak, Zachary Nesler, Jonathan Kipp, Dan Dietzenbach and Dennis Reidel. French Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Clarence, 75, died Thursday, December 9, 1999 at Ossian Senior Hospice following a lengthy illness.

Clarence J. Marhoul was born April 12, 1924 in Cresco, the son of Anton and Maude (Kubik) Marhoul. He attended country schools in rural Howrd County. Clarence farmed, and then worked for Bucheit Produce and then for several years he worked at Calmar Manufacturing in Calmar.

Clarence married Dorothy Hyke on November 17, 1947 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Lourdes.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy of Calmar; three daughters: Eileen Kipp of Ossian, Patty Novak and Deb Nesler both of Rochester, MN; seven grandchildren; one great-grandson; and one brother Ed Markovetz of Cresco; and one sister: Emma Frankhouser of Cresco.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Tony Marhoul, Bill, Frank, and Jim Markovetz, and one sister: Mary Andera.

Vivian Ring

Funeral services for Vivian Ring of Riceville were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 13 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Riceville. The Rev. Matthew O. Versemann officiated. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery. Pall bearers were her grandsons and great-grandson: Monty, David, Robby, Daniel, Greg, Bruce and Rick Ring, and Josh Fjetland. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Vivian, 81, died Thursday, December 9, 1999 at the Riceville Community Nursing Home.

Vivian H. Ring was born April 4, 1918 in Howard County near Lime Springs, the daughter of William and Helena (Reckner) Ripley. She attended the rural school and returned home to care for her parents and grandparents.

In May of 1953, she was united in marriage to Paul Fuoss at St. Agnes Church in Plymouth Rock. Paul died in 1968 and on December 27, 1975 she married Harry Ring at Riceville. They lived in the Acme area and she belonged to the Acme Birthday Club, and was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Vivian was a homemaker and a care-giver all of her life.

Survivors include her step children: Wilford Ring of McIntire and Esther Gilbert of Wildwood, IL; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchil-dren; and two great great grandchildren.

Vivian was preceded in death by her husbands, Paul and Harry; her stepson Earl Ring; one grandson; her parents; two brothers: Clarence and Dale Ripley, and one sister: Bernice Mohs.

Vernon Evenson

Funeral services for Vernon Evenson formerly of Cedar Rapids were held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 14 at French & Balik Funeral Home in Decorah. The Rev. David Andreae from Big Canoe Lutheran Church officiated. Interment was in Lincoln Cemetery, rural Ridgeway.

Vernon, 77, died Friday, December 10, 1999 at Oneota Riverview Care Facility in Decorah following a lengthy illness.

Vernon H. Evenson was born February 26, 1922 in Ridgeway, the son of Harry and Sena (Bersager) Evenson. He attended country schools near Ridgeway. He worked for the CCC around Decorah, worked as a farm hand, and helped with the harvest in North and South Dakota in his younger years. Vernon lived in Cedar Rapids for 50 years doing construction work and helping as a brick tender.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Otto; and one sister: Mabel Stegen in 1998.

Pamela Culbert

A memorial service for Pamela Culbert was held on Monday, December 13 in Midland, TX.

Pamela died December 9, 1999 after a short illness at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX.

Pamela was born to Gustave and Fredia Johnson on May 9, 1947 in Sioux City. She graduated from Leeds High School and in 1970 graduated from the University of Northern Iowa at Cedar Falls. She was a teacher for many years in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City and Midland, TX.

Pamela married L. B. “Bud” Culbert on June 19, 1971 in Sioux City, and moved to Midland in 1976.

Survivors include her husband, Bud; two daughters: Kelly Dean of Houston and Kasie Culbert of San Marcos; her mother; and two brothers.

Pamela was preceded in death by her father.

Clara Gillis

Funeral services for Clara Gillis of Medford, MN were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 16 at Christ the King Catholic Church in Medford. The Rev. Robert Herman officiated. Interment was in Resurrection Cemetery in Medford.

Clara, 83, died Monday, December 13, 1999 at the Prairie Manor Nursing Home in Blooming Prairie, MN.

Clara E. Gillis was born June 22, 1916 in Cresco the daughter of Albert and Mary (Drilling) Kapler.

On April 13, 1952 she married George M. Gillis in Cresco. They farmed in Clinton Falls Township near Medford until retiring in 1979.

She was a member of Catholic Daughters and Christ the King Catholic Church.

Survivors include her husband, George; one daughter: Diane Erickson of Kasson, MN; two grandchildren; two brothers: Joseph E. of Dubuque, and Vitalis J. of Rochester, MN; and one sister: Rita Kapler of Cresco.

Clara was preceded in death by one brother.

Clarence Shimek

Funeral services for Clarence Shimek of Elma were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 16 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, rural Elma. The Rev. Roger R. Rethamel officiated. Interment was in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Daniel Breitenstein, Beth Breitenstein, Amy Ott, Andrew Ott, Justin Shimek, Eric Shimek, Chelsie Shimek, Nick Lupkes, Jackie Lupkes, Timothy Shimek, Amber Shimek, Christopher Shimek and Gregory Shimek. Honorary pall bearers were: Andy Smith, Darrin Bohr, Joe Heintz, Tony John, Richard Shimek and Jeff Gehling. His wife and children placed the pall on the casket. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Clarence, 74, died Tuesday, December 14 at the Colonial Manor in Elma of natural causes.

Clarence Joseph Shimek was born March 21, 1925 at Protivin, the son of Joseph and Rose (Vorda) Shimek. He attended rural school and Our Lady of Lourdes School. After his schooling he farmed with his father.

On August 9, 1948 he married Roselyn (Bohr) at Our Lady of Lourdes Church. They farmed east of Lourdes, and he also did custom corn shelling and sheep shearing.

He was an honorary life member of the Elma Knights of Columbus Council #4144, and was past Grand Knight. He was a 4th degree Knights of Columbus and was a member of the Davis Assembly. He was a life long member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church. He enjoyed playing baseball, bowling, and fishing.

Survivors include his wife, Roselyn of Elma; three sons: Tom of Riceville, John of Ridgeway, and Pete of Protivin; four daughters: Mary Patricia Shimek of Decorah, Jeanene Breitenstein of Keokuk, Anne Ott of Cresco, and Jayne Lupkes of Kensett; 13 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; his mother Rose of Cresco; two brothers: Cletus of Charles City, and Kenneth of Protivin; and two sisters: Loretta Joerger of Las Vegas, and Marion Gehling of Albert Lea, MN.

Clarence was preceded in death by his father, and one sister: Lorraine Pesek.

Anna Laue

Funeral services for Anna Laue were held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, December 20 at St. Jude Catholic Church with the Rev. Richard Ament officiating. Interment was in St. John Cemetery. Teahen Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Anna, 94, died Thursday, December 16, 1999 after a short illness.

Anna K. Laue was born November 3, 1905 in Howard County, the daughter of Joseph and Johanna (Zak) Wacha.

On July 7, 1925 she married Richard Laue. She was a cook for Collins Radio, Wilson High School where she retired in 1967, and then for the Revs. Gregory, Stecher, and Kutch at St. Jude Rectory.

Anna was a member of St. Jude Catholic church, the St. Martha Circle, the Rosary Society, the St. Martha Mission, and the Royal Neighbors of America.

Survivors include one son: Donald of Cedar Rapids; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and two sisters: Mary Chihak of McHenry, IL, and Nettie Burri of Englewood, CO.

Anna was preceded in death by her husband Richard in 1967; a grandson; two brothers: Bill and Frank; and three sisters: Helen DeWalle, Emma Eliot, and Bessie Trachta.

Everett Serfling

Funeral services for Everett Serfling were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 20 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church at Big Spring, Harmony, MN. The Rev. Keith Parker officiated. Interment was in Big Spring Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Jonathan Brinkmann, Steven Serfling, Adam Serfling, Jarred Brinkmann, Scott Serfling, Richard Serfling, and Jerry Serfling. Lindstrom Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Everett, 80, died Thursday, December 16, 1999 after complications and a prolonged hospitalization from heart surgery on September 14. He enjoyed good health until recently.

Everett Merrill Serfling was born September 20, 1919 and raised in rural Harmony (Daisy Valley), MN, the son of Herman and Clara (Benson) Serfling. Everett served in the US Army Infantry from 1942-1945 in the North African and European Theaters. He was captured and held as a POW in Germany for nine months and was awarded numerous commendations including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

On October 16, 1949 he married Lottie Bernice Runge at the Big Springs Lutheran Church. He began his farming career working for several local farmers. He and Lottie started farming in rural northern Howard County in March 1950. They moved to a farm near Greenleafton, MN in 1955 and he continued to actively farm throughout his life.

Survivors include his wife, Lottie; two daughters: Parrisha Serfling of Lakewood, CO, Ellen Skalsky of Waterloo; two sons: Danny of rural Preston, MN and David also of rural Preston; ten grandchildren; one brother: Vernon of Harmony; and two sisters: Jewell Buss of Spring Valley, MN, and Doris Henry of St. Croix Falls, WI.

Everett was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and three brothers, including his twin brother, Emmett in August of 1999.

Fran Barnes 

Funeral services for Frances “Fran” Barnes were held at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 21 at Assumption Catholic Church. The Rev. Michael L. Tauke officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Pall bearers were: Howard Wemark, Tom Ernst, Tom Hoesly, Alan Ernst, John Barnes, and Eric Landini. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Frances, 87, died Friday, December 17, 1999 at her home in Cresco.

Frances Leone Barnes was born February 14, 1912 at North Henderson, Warren County, Illinois, the daughter of Frank and Lena (Smith) Dunn. She attended school and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1929. She attended Knox College for one year and transferred to Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls. In August 1934 she was granted a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursery School and Kindergarten education.

She taught school at West Ward School until she met and married Paul I. Barnes on June 23, 1936 at the Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. Fran and Paul built the home they lived in. Fran assisted Paul in the operation of the Elms Cafe they operated from 1934-1945 and later helped him during his years as a clothing salesman.

Fran was a member of the Assumption Church and the Altar and Rosary Society. She belonged to the Clio Club, the Howard County Historical Society, the Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of the Board of Directors of the Alert Manor, and past president of the Tuesday Club.

Survivors include one sister: Lucille McBride of Galesburg, IL.

Fran was preceded in death by her husband Paul on July 13, 1990; and her parents.

Gerhard Groth

Funeral services for Gerhard Groth of Decorah were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 20 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. Bernie Ocbser officiated. Interment was in Locust Cemetery. French & Balik Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Gerhard, 82, died Friday, December 17, 1999 at Oneota Riverview Care Facility in Decorah following a lengthy illness.

Gerhard M. Groth was born August 22, 1917 in Clayton County, the son of Martin Groth and Bertha West. He attended country school in Clayton County. As a young man he moved to the Decorah area. Gerhard attended school in Des Moines and then moved to Baltimore, Maryland during WWII and worked on airplanes.

On January 5, 1939 he married Irene O. Anderson. They farmed near Sattre and Burr Oak, then moved to Colorado for a few years and then to Rochester, MN. They returned to his mother’s farm by Locust, and he did carpentry work.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and ice fishing.

Gerhard was a life member of Farm Bureau and a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Locust.

Survivors include three daughters: Gretchen Greenwaldt of Rochester, MN, Elaine Anderson of Decorah, and Rita Jump of Mabel, MN; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Gerhard was preceded in death by his wife, Irene in 1986; one grandson, his parents; one brother: Lawrence West, and one sister: Viola Gisleson.

Mable Fitzgerald

Funeral services for Mable Fitzgerald were held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 21 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma. The Rev. Roger R. Rethamel officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Elma. Pall bearers were: Terry Fitzgerald, Steve Fitzgerald, Tom Fitzgerald, Jay Fitzgerald, Todd Huegel and Jeremy Danielson. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mable, 87, died Saturday, December 18, 1999 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN of natural causes.

Mable Isabelle Fitzgerald was born June 20, 1912 at Elma, the daughter of James and Margaret (O’Brien) Carroll. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy.

On October 29, 1934 she married James Fitzgerald at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma. They farmed near Elma, until James’ death in 1988, when she moved to Elma.

Mable was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church and Rosary Society, and also a member of the Friends and Neighbors Club. She loved gardening and was an excellent seamstress.

Survivors include two sons: Pat of Elkader, and Jerry of Elma; two daughters: Mary Danielson, and Joanne Huegel both of Rochester, MN; 23 grandchildren; and 46 great-grandchildren.

Mable was preceded in death by her husband James; two sons: Edward in 1978, and Joseph in 1997; her parents; two sisters: Stella Carroll, and Mildred Carroll.

Ralph Woodward

Graveside services for Ralph Woodward were held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 21 at Hillside Cemetery, Columbus. The Rev. William Hower officiated. Jones-Jensen Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Ralph, 76, died Saturday, December 18, 1999 at Veteran’s Hospital, Madison.

Ralph A. Woodward was born March 23, 1923 in Cresco, the son of Arthur and Janette (Crawford) Woodward. He was a World War II veteran serving in the U.S. Army where he fought in the European Theater including the invasion of Normandy, D-Day. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.

On February 14, 1946 he married Harriet Hendricks. He was employed for 33 years at Oscar Meyer Co., Madison before retirement.

Survivors include three sons: Reginald of Costa Mesa, CA, Randall of Madison, and Mark of Santa Rosa, CA; one daughter: Terry Larsen of Madison; and five grandchildren.

Ralph was preceded in death by his wife in 1987, and his parents.

Harold Dehning

Funeral services for Harold Dehning were held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 21 at the First Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. Marion Miller officiated. Interment was in Phelps Cemetery. French & Balik Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Harold, 82, died Saturday, December 18, 1999 at the Barthell Eastern Star Nursing Home in Decorah after a long illness.

Survivors include his wife, Marjorie of Decorah; and three sons: Duane and Ronald of Decorah, and Harlon of Marengo.

Mabel DeWalle

Funeral services for Mabel DeWalle were held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, December 23 at Notre Dame Parish Assumption Worship Center in Cresco. The Rev. Michael L. Tauke officiated. Pall bearers were: Clarence Jewell, Bob Jewell, Tom Jewell, Don Carolan, Pat Werhan and Jim Werhan. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mabel, 99, died Sunday, December 19, 1999 at the Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Mabel DeWalle was born August 30, 1900 at Ridgeway, Winneshiek County, the daughter of Darwin and Mary Jane (Healy) Werhan. She attended the rural school.

On October 5, 1919 she married Otto DeWalle at the Assumption Church in Cresco.

She was a lifetime member of the Assumption Church. She worked at the Cresco Cafe, and devoted her spare time doing things for the church.

Survivors include one son: Otto Jr. of Charles City; two grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and three great great grandchildren.

Mabel was preceded in death by her husband Otto; one son: Francis; one daughter: Anna Lampman; one grandchild; her parents; two sisters: Marie Jewell and Dorothy Carolan; and one brother: Alfred Werhan.

June Reed

Services and interment for June Reed of Waldorf were held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 7 at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Cheltenham. Huntt Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

June, 88, died Monday, December 20, 1999 at Waldorf Healthcare Center.

June Carlisle Reed was born June 17, 1911 in Cresco the daughter of Judge Carl Webster and Alice (Swenson) Reed.

June worked as a clerk for the U.S. Department of the Army. She was a graduate of the Univrsity of Iowa and worked in Chicago prior to entering military service. She served in the Women’s Army Corps from March 1944 to April 1947. Duty stations included the Manhattan Project during the development of the atomic bomb, and later the Western Base Command in Europe. She worked as a civilian with the occupation forces in Japan until 1951. She then made her home in Arlington, VA, and worked for the Army Signal Corps until her retirement in 1972.

Survivors include one brother, Richard of Accokeek, MD.

June was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Henry.

Angeline Tollefson

Funeral services for Angeline Tollefson of Decorah were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 27 at Madison Lutheran Church rural Ridgeway. The Rev. Phillip and Rev. Ginny Olson officiated. Interment was in Madison Lutheran Cemetery rural Ridgeway. Pall bearers were: Roger Henningsgaard, Vernon Solum, Caroll Solum, David Solum, Jack Headington and John Headington. French & Balik Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Angeline, 80, died Tuesday, December 21, 1999 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN following a lengthy illness.

Angeline Margaret Tollefson was born February 25, 1919 near Decorah, the daughter of Casper and Ella (Evenson) Guttormson. She was baptized and confirmed at Madison Lutheran Church. She attended country school in Madison Township.

On February 5, 1942 she married Orville L. Tollefson at the Madison Church Parsonage. Angeline worked at Luther College, cleaning the College Library, retiring in 1972. She moved to Decorah one year ago. She enjoyed feeding the birds and Christmas time.

Angeline was a member of the Madison Lutheran Church and Ladies Circle.

Survivors include three daughters: Lorraine Erickson of Decorah, Shirley Housker of Mabel, MN, and Janet Teslow of Decorah; one son: Lyle of Decorah; 15 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren.

Angeline was preceded in death by her husband Orville in 1987; one son: Dale in December 1991; one grandson; her parents; and one sister: Esther Solum.

Irene Strnad

Funeral services for Irene Strnad of Protivin were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 23 at Holy Trinity Worship Center in Protivin. The Rev. Allen M. Schmitt officiated. Pall bearers were her nine grandchildren: Sally, Joe, Nancy and Thom Strand; Jennifer, Paul, and Sara Strnad; and Dean and Don Dietzenbach. Conway Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Irene, 84, died Tuesday, December 21, 1999 at the Cresco Care Center.

Irene E. Strnad was born June 29, 1915 in Winneshiek County, southeast of Protivin, the daughter of Joseph F. and Elizabeth (Horky) Vsetecka. She attended the rural school and returned home to help the family with chores.

On November 15, 1937 she married Joseph G. Strnad at the Holy Trinity Church in Protivin. They made their home on the farm until they moved into Protivin in 1980.

Irene helped haul mail, she liked to cook at weddings, she did a lot of sewing and crocheting, had a wonderful garden and did a lot of canning. She loved flowers and trees. She was a lifetime member of the Holy Trinity Church and Rosary Society.

Survivors include one daughter: Donna Dietzenbach of Protivin; two sons: Arnold of Plymouth, MN, and James F. of Stevens Point, WI; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Irene was preceded in death by her husband Joseph on March 5, 1984; five brothers: Adolf, Leonard, Benjamin, Clarence and Edward; four sisters: Helen Tupy, Edna Shores, Della Novak and Emma Kalishek.

Joe Bockman

Funeral services for Joe Bockman will held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 29 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Decorah. The Rev. Gary Krapfl will officiate. Interment will be in Lady of Seven Dolors Cemetery in Festina. French & Balik Funeral Home will handle the arrangements.

Joe, 77, died Wednesday, December 22, 1999 at the Oneota Riverview Care Facility in Decorah after a short illness.

Survivors include five daughters: Mary Jo Sterling of St. Paul, MN, Patricia Steele of Onalaska, WI, Jane Bullerman of Decorah, Sharon Elberth of Little Touch Key, FL, Faye Bockman of Decorah; five sons: Steve of Allen, TX, Leon, Tom, Mark and Mike all of Decorah; two brothers: Andy of Anaheim, CA, and Frank of Lady Lake, FL; and two sisters: Florence Vahling of Hoxie, KS, and Betty Daugherty of Peoria, AZ.

Adolph Burri

Funeral services for Adolph Burri of Decorah were held at 12:00 noon Sunday, December 26 at First Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. Steven M. Jacobsen officiated. Interment was in Lutheran Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Allan Boice, Ron Peterson, David Burri and David Hamilton. Honorary pall bearers were: Arnold Duneman, Lester Sorenson, Matthew Burri and Duane Bergan. Fjelstul Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Adolph, 89, died Thursday, December 23, 1999 at Green Lea Manor in Mabel, MN following a long illness.

Adolph Frederick Burri was born January 4, 1910 in Howard County, the son of Joseph and Emma (Gerber) Burri. He was baptized at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco on July 24, 1910 and confirmed at Immanuel on June 6, 1926. After attending public school in Howard County and graduating with honors on May 29, 1925, he helped on the family farm later working as a hired man on a number of farms.

On October 13, 1937 he married Ruth Alberta Sandvik at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco. They farmed until 1961, then moved to Decorah where Adolph worked for a number of years as a maintenance man at Luther College and head of maintenance in the Union, retiring in 1972.

After retirement from Luther, Adolph made his yard work, garden and cooking his avocations. He will be long remembered for his homemade bread, soups and pie crust. He loved a good game of “500”. Some summers they went camping almost every weekend.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth; two daughters: Phyllis Burri of Decorah and Constance Boice of St. Charles, MN; two sons: Eugene of Rochester, MN and James of Decorah; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and one brother: Paul of San Francisco, CA.

Adolph was preceded in death by a grandson; his parents; one sister: Irene Fountain Fencl; and one brother: George, Sr.

Daniel Moriarty

Robert Daniel Moriarty, 72, of Hingham, Massachusetts died early in the morning of December 23, 1999. His last days were spent peacefully and comfortably at his home surrounded by his beloved wife, all of his five children, other family members and many lifetime friends. He was a devoted and caring husband, a cherished and respected father, and a faithful and loyal friend to all who were blessed to have known and loved him.

Mr. Moriarty, a retired Master Electrician, worked for a number of railroads over his career, including The New York, New Haven and Hartford, ConRail and Amtrak. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Irene (nee McCann) Moriarty, and children Robert David Moriarty of Hingham; Joseph Michael Moriarty, his wife Kristine Reichel Moriarty and their sons Ryan and Patrick of Plymouth, MA; Eileen Moriarty Wilkins and her husband Paul Wilkins and their children Daniel and Katie of South Weymouth, MA; Daniel Robert Moriarty of Hingham; and James Paul Moriarty and his wife Dawn Lordan Moriarty and their sons Ian and Noel of Cresco, IA; and many beloved relatives and friends.

Mr. Moriarty was preceded in death by his parents, his three brothers and his sister.

Gifts in his memory may be directed to South Shore Hospice.

Helen Larsen 

Funeral services for Helen Larsen, of Riceville, formerly of Elma, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, December 30 at the St. Paul Maple Leaf Lutheran Church. The Rev. Myrwood Bagne will officiate. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery. Lindstrom Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Helen, 86, died Saturday, December 25, 1999 at the Riceville Community Rest Home.

Helen A. Larsen was born December 19, 1913 on the family farm south of Saratoga, the daughter of Fred and Dorothea (Timmermann) Groth. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. She attended country schools in Saratoga township and continued her education at Cresco High School.

On December 23, 1932 she married Victor T. Larsen. They farmed near Maple Leaf until 1973, then moved in 1974 to Riceville. She lived there until December 2, 1999 when she entered the Riceville Community Rest Home.

Survivors include two sons: Charles and Richard both of Elma; four daughters: Myrna Jacoby of Waterloo, Catherine Rieken of Elma, Norma Pontenberg of Waterloo, and Irene Heying of New Hampton; 24 grandchildren; and 42 great-grandchildren.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband Victor; one son: Gordon; two grandchildren; three great- grandchildren; three sisters: Ella Bachmann, Frieda Lauck, and Alice Hartwig; and two brothers: William and Harry Groth.

Adolph Burri

Funeral services for Adolph Burri of Decorah were held at 12:00 noon Sunday, December 26 at First Lutheran Church in Decorah. The Rev. Steven M. Jacobsen officiated. Interment was in Lutheran Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Allan Boice, Ron Peterson, David Burri and David Hamilton. Honorary pall bearers were: Arnold Duneman, Lester Sorenson, Matthew Burri and Duane Bergan. Fjelstul Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Adolph, 89, died Thursday, December 23, 1999 at Green Lea Manor in Mabel, MN following a long illness.

Adolph Frederick Burri was born January 4, 1910 in Howard County, the son of Joseph and Emma (Gerber) Burri. He was baptized at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco on July 24, 1910 and confirmed at Immanuel on June 6, 1926. After attending public school in Howard County and graduating with honors on May 29, 1925, he helped on the family farm later working as a hired man on a number of farms.

On October 13, 1937 he married Ruth Alberta Sandvik at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco. They farmed until 1961, then moved to Decorah where Adolph worked for a number of years as a maintenance man at Luther College and head of maintenance in the Union, retiring in 1972.

After retirement from Luther, Adolph made his yard work, garden and cooking his avocations. He will be long remembered for his homemade bread, soups and pie crust. He loved a good game of “500”. Some summers they went camping almost every weekend.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth; two daughters: Phyllis Burri of Decorah and Constance Boice of St. Charles, MN; two sons: Eugene of Rochester, MN and James of Decorah; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and one brother: Paul of San Francisco, CA.

Adolph was preceded in death by a grandson; his parents; one sister: Irene Fountain Fencl; and one brother: George, Sr.

Clarence Bronner

Funeral services for Clarence Bronner were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 30 at Zion United Methodist Church. The Rev. Robert Holdorf officiated. Interment was in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Cresco. Pall bearers were: Dan Schwasinger, Dale Fagner Jr., Jim White, Jay Anderson, Steve Novak, and Robert Vobr. Honorary pall bearers were: Calvin Bronner, Roger Bronner, Brent Bronner and Ron Magnus. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Clarence, 77, died Sunday, December 26, 1999 at his farm home.

Clarence Bronner was born September 7, 1922 at the farm home, the son of Albert and Addie (Scheurer) Bronner. He attended the country school and went to farm night classes. He was a lifelong farmer and also owned the Bronner Tractor business for 15 years.

on April 27, 1946 he married Grace Larsen in Cresco. They were later divorced.

Survivors include three daughters: Kathleen Bronner of Wonder Lake, IL, Pam Bronner of Decorah and Cynthia Bronner of Cedar Rapids; one son: Mark of Cresco; two grandchildren; two brothers: Kenneth of Kalispell, MT and Robert B. of Lime Springs.

Clarence was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother, Eldred.

Bernice Butz

Funeral services for Bernice Butz will be held at 11:00 a.m. (today) Wednesday, December 29 at the Peace Lutheran Church in Ridgeway. Interment will be in Ridgeway town cemetery. Lindstrom Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Bernice, 76, died Sunday, December 26, 1999 at the Cresco Care Center.

Bernice Angeline Butz was born October 9, 1923 in Waucoma, the daughter of Melford and Viola (Zahasky) Woldum. Bernice attended Decorah High School where she graduated in 1942.

On April 24, 1949 she married Lawrence Butz at Decorah Lutheran Church. They made their home in Ridgeway and were members of the Ridgeway Lutheran Parish since 1949. Bernice worked for her parents at the Kozy Korner, then worked for Deco Products of Decorah for 22 years.

Bernice enjoyed going to auctions, and loved to watch football and basketball. She also took great pride in taking care of her yard.

She was active in the Ridgeway American Legion Auxiliary, holding the President’s position for many years. Bernice also belonged to the Cresco VFW, was a Sunday School Suprintendent and teacher for many years. She belonged to the Sarah Circle and the Ladies Aid, and was an active member of the Ridgeway Chamber of Commerce.

Survivors include one son: Marlin (Butch) of Mason City; one daughter: Viola Gerleman of Ridgeway; two grandchildren; and one sister: LaVonne Mayer of Riceville.

Bernice was preceded in death by her husband Lawrence; one grandson; and her parents.

John Schmidt

Funeral services for John Schmidt of Mountain Home, AR were held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, January 2 at Twin Lakes Baptist Church. Dr. Sam Bailey officiated. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery in Riceville. Kirby-Boaz Funeral Home of Mountain Home, AR was in charge of arrangements.

John, 93, died Monday, December 27, 1999 at Baxter Regional Medical Center.

John Carl Schmidt was born November 9, 1906 in Sycamore, IL the son of Elizabeth and Leonhardt Schmidt.

On June 2, 1949 he married Vivian J. Noble at Riceville. John received his Master Teachers Degree at Fort Dodge. He taught in the Fort Dodge, Iowa School District for 22 years. He moved to Mountain Home, AR in 1973. He was a teacher and administrator.

He was a member of Twin Lakes Baptist Church, member of Phi Delta Gamma, Christian Leadership Counselor, avid naturalist and traveler, Audubon Society, and woodworker.

Survivors include one son: John Dwayne of Orlando, FL; one daughter: Mary Ann Cramer of Mountain Home, AR; six grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; five brothers; and three sisters.

Beverly Lawson

Graveside services for Beverly Lawson were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, January 3 at Bluffton Cemetery in Bluffton. The Rev. Hans Floan from Burr Oak Lutheran Church officiated. French & Balik Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Beverly, 61, died Wednesday, December 29, 1999 at Northgate Care Center in Waukon following a short illness.

Beverly D. Lawson was born May 22, 1938 in Sioux City, the daughter of Arthur and Kathleen (Bergmann) Rakow. In 1947 Beverly moved with her family to the Burr Oak area. She graduated from high school in 1956 in Canton, MN. After high school Beverly worked for a short time in Cedar Rapids and after she married at the Burr Oak Store.

On January 13, 1957 she married Richard Lawson at the Burr Oak Lutheran Church. She enjoyed doing puzzles and flowers. She was a member of the Burr Oak Lutheran Church.

Survivors include her husband Richard of Burr Oak; one son: Dennis of Decorah; two grandchildren; and one sister: Frances Schnitzler of Burr Oak.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents, and one sister in infancy.

Ervin Kupka

Funeral services for Ervin Kupka were held at 12:00 p.m. Monday, January 3 at Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. The Rev. Michael L. Tauke officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Cresco. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Ervin, 77, died Wednesday, December 29, 1999 at the Cresco Care Center in Cresco.

Ervin J. Kupka was born February 10, 1922 in Jackson Township, Winneshiek County, near Fort Atkinson, the son of Joseph W. and Mary (Shores) Kupka. He attended the rural school and returned home to help on the farm until he reached an age to start working on his own. Ervin came to Cresco in 1951 and held various jobs. He drove a pop truck, worked as an electrician for Carwell Hardware, worked at the County Shop on road maintenance and was shop foreman for many years, ran a bus route for the school, and owned and operated Erv’s Cylinder Gas.

He was a member of the Assumption Catholic Church and the Catholic Order of Foresters. He liked to hunt and fish.

Survivors include three sons: David of Cresco, Darwin of Waterloo and Dean of Cresco; one daughter: Sandra Andrus of Cresco; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one sister: Adeline Houdek of Cresco.

Ervin was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister: Betty Henry.

Margaret Sweeney

Funeral services for Margaret Sweeney of Elma were held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 3 at Immaculate Conception Church in Elma. The Rev. Roger R. Rethamel officiated. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Elma. Her children placed the pall, and her grandsons Lorn, Jeff, Mark and Steve Dykes, Mark McKeon, Kevin Wysocki, Pat Sweeney Jr., Virgil Dykes Jr., and Roger Dykes were pall bearers. Conway Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Margaret, 94, died Wednesday, December 29, 1999 at Colonial Manor Home in Elma of natural causes.

Margaret Bernice Boyle was born July 29, 1905 in the home of her parents near Lawler, the daughter of Patrick W. and Ann (Murray) Boyle. She attended Mt. Carmel High School in Lawler and received a teaching degree from college in Dubuque. She taught for several years in the Bremer and Howard County school systems.

On June 25, 1935 she married Herman James Sweeney at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Lawler. After their marriage, they farmed the Sweeney family farm near Alta Vista. After the death of her husband, Margaret continued to live on the farm until moving to Colonial Manor in Elma on January 3, 1992.

She was a member of Immaculate Conception Church and the Rosary Society.

Survivors include one son: Patrick of Elma; three daughters: Enid Wysocki, and Yvonne McKeon both of Dubuque and Connie Dykes of Lake City, MN; 13 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one sister: Ann Klassen of Stacyville.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband Herman who died October 20, 1987; one daughter: Nancy (Margaret Ann) Sweeney who died March 8, 1945; her parents; three brothers: Charles, William and James L.; and one sister: Irene Shekleton.

Donald Mohs

Funeral services for Donald Mohs were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, January 3 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. The Rev. Michael L. Tauke officiated. Interment was in New Oregon Cemetery. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Donald, 72, died Thursday, December 30, 1999 at the Regional Health Services of Howard County.

Donald Eugene Mohs was born July 25, 1927 in Lime Springs, the son of William and Nellie Mae (Wilmot) Mohs. He graduated from Cresco High School in 1947.

On January 7, 1953 he married Bernice Ripley at St. Paul Lutheran Church at Davis Corners. Don worked at Ingersoll Implement and then for the Howard County Road Department from which he retired in 1991. Over the years he also farmed part time.

He kept occupied after retirement performing ground maintenance at the Riverside Cemetery in Riceville, and snow blowing in Cresco until his health prevented it.

He has kept busy the last few years by helping people by providing rides, running errands and helping at the senior citizen mealsite.

Survivors include two daughters: Barbara Mohs of Cresco and Connie Holland of Plum City, WI; two grandsons; and one sister: Wilma Mohs of Cresco.

Donald was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; and a sister: Donna Mae Hebrink.

Doris Buckridge

Funeral services for Doris Buckridge were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 3 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cresco. The Rev. Bruce Hobert officiated. Interment was in New Oregon Cemetery. Pall bearers were: Scott Mahr, Bill Mahr, Billy Buckridge, Lyman Herald, Scott Wilken and Troy Hall. Lindstrom Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Doris passed away Thursday, December 30, 1999 on her 68th birthday at the Evans Memorial Home in Cresco after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Doris Jean Buckridge was born December 30, 1931 the daughter of R. Zenas and Ida (Gerber) Miller. She was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church. She graduated from Cresco High School in 1950.

Doris married William Buckridge of Waterloo, and was later widowed. Doris worked for many years at the IGA grocery store, and for the past 13 years she worked at the Evans Memorial Home.

Doris was well known in the community for her sewing and baking skills.

Survivors include four daughters: Debra Mahr of Lime Springs, Sheri Herold and Alma Wilken both of Cresco, and Tammy Rose of Centerville; five sons: Robert of Lake St. Louis, MO, Jay of Nampa, ID, Weslie, Bryan of Anchorage, AK, and Keith of Alta Vista; and 19 grandchildren.

Doris was preceded in death by her husband, her parents; and one sister: Lorene Boomgarden of Waterloo.

Margaret Pecinovsky

Memorial services for Margaret Pecinovsky of Polk City will be held 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 27 at the Merle Hay Funeral Home in Des Moines, and also at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 29 at Conway Funeral Home in Elma. The family will greet friends an hour before service time at the funeral home. Margaret donated her body to the Osteopathic College of Medicine.

Margaret, 86, died Thursday, December 30, 1999 of a heart ailment at the Kavanaugh House in Polk City.

Margaret V. Pecinovsky was born August 15, 1913 at the family farm near Elma, the daughter of John and Pauline (Vopava) Krall. She attended the rural school and was a graduate of Elma High School. She received her teaching certificate from Iowa Teachers College in Cedar Falls and afterward taught in the Howard and Winneshiek County school systems. She served eight years as a law secretary clerk.

On April 8, 1942 she married Alois H. Pecinovsky. She traveled with her husband while he was in the service during World War II. She was a civilian employee with the armed forces while he served overseas. After the war, they returned to the Krall farm near Elma and farmed there until 1986 when they retired. Margaret lived in Elma and in later years spent much time in Polk City because of failing health.

She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, ZCBJ and the Polk City and Polk County Historical Society.

Survivors include one daughter: Kaye Clark of Polk City; and four grandsons.