Maxine D. Dayton, 1915-2002

March 5, 2002

Word has been received of the death of former Garner resident, Mrs. Maxine D. Dayton, of Des Moines. Mrs. Dayton died of pneumonia at the Hospice Kavanaugh House, Des Moines, on Saturday, March 2, 2002.

No services are planned. Burial will be in the Masonic Cemetery in Des Moines. The Westover Funeral Home of Des Moines is in charge of the arrangements.

Maxine Dorothy Dayton, was born at LuVerne, Iowa on October 9, 1915. She was the daughter of Theodore and Cella (Bates) Bunkofske. She grew up in Garner.

Mrs. Dayton was a resident of Des Moines most of her life. She was employed as a federal aviation secretary. She also was employed by the Small Business Administration until her retirement in 1982. She was a member of the New Hope United Methodist Church and of the Professional Secretaries International.

Survivors include a daughter, Cella Dayton of Des Moines and a son, Charles Dayton, Jr. of Castro Valley, California.

Mrs. Dayton was preceded in death by her husband, Charles in 1999.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Evelyn Hiller, 1922-2002

March 5, 2002

Evelyn Hiller, 79, died on Sunday, March 3, 2002, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, March 6, at the Richland Lutheran Church of Thornton, with Rev. Jerry Gernander officiating. Visitation was from 3-6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, at the Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf-Grarup Funeral Home, Thornton. Interment will be in the Richland Lutheran Cemetery, Thornton.

Evelyn was born on April 25, 1922, to Melvin and Minnie (Meyer) Ingebretson in Thornton. She attended Thornton Schools. She was a life long member of the Richland Lutheran Church

On December 20, 1941, Evelyn was united in marriage with Lavern Hiller. They farmed south of Thornton all of their married life. Evelyn enjoyed gardening, cooking, fishing and playing in Bridge clubs. She also enjoyed spending winters in the Ft. Dade Mobile Home Park in Dade, Florida.

Evelyn is survived by three children, Joan Oelkers of Clear Lake, Jack Hiller of Brooksville Florida and Carmen Holladay of Las Vegas Nevada; sister, Marybelle Johnson of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Letha Dodge of Rockwell and Irene Ingebretson of Mason City; six grandchildren, Kelly Hyde of Mason City, Wendy Friest of Mason City, Tisha Haugland of Stuart, Florida, Mia Haugland of Las Vegas, Nevada, Rudy Hiller & Drew Hiller of Brooksville, Florida; and one great-grandchild, Dylan Friest of Mason City.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lavern; and a granddaughter, Amber Haugland.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Daniel H. Meyer, 1913-2002

March 13, 2002

Daniel H. Meyer, 88, of Woden, died on Sunday, March 3, 2002, at the Westview Care Center, Britt.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, March 6, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church at Titonka, with the Rev. James L. Berka officiating. Music was provided by organist, Karen Post who accompanied congregational hymns. Ushers were Dennis Zuehl and Dean Boyken.

Casket bearers were Stanley Limberg, Harvey Eden, Keith Eden, Paul Loeschen, James Eden and Kent Eden. Interment was in the Bingham Township Cemetery, Woden. The Cataldo Funeral Home, Britt, was in charge of the arrangements.

Daniel Harm Meyer, the son of the Rev. Dirk and Emma (Rotschafer) Meyer, was born on November 11, 1913 at Woden. He attended the rural schools of Hancock County and worked for various farmers in the Woden area.

On May 16, 1935, he married Gladys Monsen at her parents' home northeast of Woden. They lived at Goodell, Rowan, Forest City, Britt and in 1952 returned to Woden, where Dan farmed and later started his own paint contracting business. He enjoyed playing cribbage, bowling, going to auctions and garage sales and fishing at his cabin near Mankato, Minnesota. Most of all, he enjoyed gardening. He was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church.

He is survived by his three sons, Edward Daryl Meyer and his wife, Janet of Fort Dodge, Gary Meyer and his wife, Joyce of Garner and Ronnie Meyer and his wife, Carole of Bloomington, Minnesota; 12 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are a brother, Paul Meyer of Kanawha; a sister, Ruth DeWaard of Woden; three sisters-in-law, Hanna Mae Meyer of Woden, Martha Riggle and her husband, Ernest of Crystal Lake and Bertha Monsen of Forest City; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys on November 20, 1996; his son, Darwin on July 6, 1987; his parents; three brothers, Ed, John and Elmer Meyer; three sisters, Marie Limberg, Esther Limberg and Aletta Eden; and a brother-in-law, Adrian DeWaard.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Bonnie Steege, 1926-2002

March 13, 2002

Garner native Bonnie Steege, of Clear Lake, died on Monday, March 4, 2002, at the North Iowa Mercy Health Center, Mason City. She was 75.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 8, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Clear Lake. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, of Clear Lake, was in charge of the arrangements.

Bonnie (Stott) Steege, was born on July 29, 1926 in Garner. She was the daughter of Guy and Emma (Wirtjes) Stott. She graduated from the Garner High School in 1944.

She married Keith Steege on June 4, 1950 in Garner. The couple made their home in Clear Lake, then moved to Webster City in 1954. In 1962, they moved to Ankeny and in 1988, moved back to Clear Lake.

Bonnie's life was centered around her family. She also enjoyed collecting antiques, going to garage sales, dancing, reading, and trying new recipes. Bonnie and Keith enjoyed spending their winters in Mesa, Arizona since 1977.

Survivors include her husband, Keith of Clear Lake; three daughters, Lonnie Kay Brewington and her husband, Andrew of Anchorage, Alaska, Barb Benedetti and her husband, Robert of Lexington, Illinois and Diana Steege of Bloomington, Illinois; one sister, Leona Straw of Clear Lake; two brothers, Lyle Stott and his wife, Edna of Charles City and Lloyd Stott and his wife, Doris of Camarillo, California; two grandchildren, Bobbi Frisby and her husband, Daniel of Palmer, Alaska and Matthew Lamb of Iowa City; and two great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Steege was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Louie Stott; two sisters, Lois Acurso and Lorna Brcka; and in infant brother.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Bjarne T. Haugland, 1916-2002

March 13, 2002

Bjarne T. Haugland, 85, of Woden, died on Wednesday, March 6, 2002, at the Kanawha Community Home.

Funeral services were held on Monday, March 11, at the Grant Lutheran Church near Woden. The Rev. Arlen Lloyd officiated. Music was provided by organist, Tammy Johnson who accompanied soloist, Bruce Wubben and congregational hymns. Ushers were Doug Swingen and Jim Steffen.

Casket bearers were Josh Haugland, Zach Haugland, Derek Haugland, Dan Haugland, Kent Haugland, Todd Lunning and Brad Haugland. Burial was in the Crystal Township Cemetery in Crystal Lake. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden was in charge of the arrangements.

Bjarne Theodore Haugland, the son of Severin and Malinda (Hope) Haugland, was born on April 15, 1916, on a farm northeast of Crystal Lake. He attended school at Crystal Lake and from 1933 to 1939 worked on the farm of Harvey and Evelyn Hansen.

On June 3, 1938, he married Dorothy Hornor at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They farmed for two years northeast of Crystal Lake and seven years northeast of Kanawha. In 1949 the couple moved to a farm northeast of Woden where they lived until 1977, when they retired from farming and moved into Woden.

Mr. Haugland was active in his community serving for 12 years as the first district director and chairman of the board for the Grant Township School and later as a director and president of the Woden-Crystal Lake School Board when the two schools merged. He also served for nine years as a director on the Woden Farmers Elevator Board. He enjoyed his family, farming and fishing.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Dorothy of Woden; three children, Dean Haugland and his wife, Doris of Forest City, Linda Lunning and her husband, Roger of Forest City and Dale Haugland and his wife, LaRae of Crystal Lake; a son-in-law, Paul Lenz of Spencer; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a sister, Sarah Ryerson of Mankato, Minnesota; a brother, Lloyd Haugland and his wife, Lydia of Montgomery, Alabama; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jean Lenz in 1983; his parents; and five brothers, Stanley, Grant, Eric, Carl and a brother in infancy.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Margaret Greiman, 1914-2002

March 13, 2002

Margaret H. Greiman, 87, of Garner, died on Wednesday, March 6, 2002, at the Good Shepherd Care Center in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Monday, March 11, at the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner, with the Rev. Darrell Weber officiating. Music was provided by organist, Margaret Jass who accompanied congregational hymns and a vocal trio of Dorothy DeVary, Lynell Kohlmeyer and Karen Zenor. Ushers were Daryl Upmeyer, Virgil DeVary and Willis Davison.

Casket bearers were Matt Greiman, Tom Blank, Jeff Blank, Chris Eden, Brett Eden, Jason Eden, Robert Greiman and David Greiman. Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery in Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home, Garner, was in charge of the arrangements.

Margaret Helen Greiman, the daughter of John and Mary (Ford) Brade, was born on April 29, 1914 at Garner. She attended school in Garner where she graduated from high school in 1933.

On December 17, 1934, she was married to Floyd Benjamin Greiman at the Methodist Parsonage in Garner. They lived in Garner where Margaret raised their family and worked at various jobs in town, including the Garner Leader for 15 years. She was manager of the Dairy Queen from 1968 to 1979. An outgoing, active person, she enjoyed playing cards, quilting and crafting.

She was an active member of the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church where she served as church secretary and historian for many years. She was a member of the County Cousins of Hancock County, serving as their first President. She also belonged to several clubs and organizations in the community over the years. including the Garner VFW Auxiliary.

She is survived by her four children, Jeanetta Taft of Mason City, JoAnn Blank of Peoria, Illinois, Judie Eden of Mason City and David Greiman and his wife, Jeanettee of Garner; 11 grandchildren, Jacqueline McCavitt of Peoria, Illinois, Thomas Blank and his wife, Lisa of Peoria, Jeff Blank and his wife, Jill of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Jolyn Blank of Champagne, Illinois, Chris Eden and his wife, Lori of Mason City, Brett Eden and his wife, Kim of Mason City, Jason Eden and his wife, Patti of Mason City, Robert Greiman of Scottsdale, Arizona, Cindy Meyer and her husband, Tom of Mason City, David Greiman of Chandler, Arizona and Matt Greiman of St. Cloud, Minnesota; 23 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; a sister, Marva Brade of Mason City; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; three sisters; two infant sons, Glen and Carroll; a grandson, Scott Eden; and a son-in-law, Jack Blank.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Frank A. Umbarger, 1906-2002

March 13, 2002

Frank Umbarger, of Garner, died on Friday, March 8, 2002, at the Heritage Care Center of Mason City. He was 96.

Funeral services were held at the First Presbyterian Church in Mason City, on Monday, March 11. The Rev. Terry Hamilton-Poore of the First Presbyterian Church officiated. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City. The Major Erickson Funeral Home of Mason City was in charge of the arrangements.

Frank A. Umbarger, was born on January 31, 1906, on a farm east of Odebolt, Iowa. He was the sixth child of James Francis and Winfred DeEtte (Ballard) Umbarger. He attended school in Odebolt, rural Ringsted and Lake Park, Iowa. He was baptized at the Presbyterian Church in Lake Park, Iowa in 1917. He was a 1922 graduate of the Lake Park High School. After working on different farms and the CRI & P Railroad he moved to South Dakota where he worked on several farms.

On February 4, 1928, Frank Umbarger was united in marriage to Esther L. Levinat at the Methodist Parsonage in Hudson, South Dakota. The couple began farming for themselves in Hudson, but the "Dust Bowl" struck and damaged most of the crops. Mr. Umbarger returned to working for other farmers. In the fall of 1932, they moved back to Iowa. In 1941, they moved to Mason City where he worked for a welding and machine shop delivering supplies to and from Minneapolis.

He later worked for a Caterpillar dealer and retired after 20 years of service. After the death of his first wife, Esther, Mr. Umbarger moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he later met and married Burdette Norton. They moved to Garner in 1984.

Mr. Umbarger was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Mason City, where he served as a trustee, elder and deacon.

Survivors include a son, J. Robert Umbarger and wife, Donna of Mason City; a step-daughter, Kay Severson and her husband, Rich of Sarasota, Florida; daughter-in-law, Ruth Umbarger of Mason City; a sister, Margaret Ashburn of Minneapolis, Minnesota; grandchildren, Carey Umbarger and wife, Susan of Britt, Raymond Umbarger and wife, Kelli of Gilbert, Arizona, Bobbi Thomas and husband, Torrey of West Des Moines, Eric Umbarger and wife, Nichole of Grimes, Anne Verhelst and husband, David of Mason City, Janet Schaefer and husband, Paul of Mason City and Jean Gettis and husband, Mike of Lakeville, Minnesota; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wives, Esther and Burdette; a son, R. Duane Umbarger; and three brothers, Percy, Max and Morris.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Carrol M. Bakken, 1921-2002

March 19, 2002

Carrol M. Bakken, 80, of Garner, died on Monday, March 11, 2002, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, March 15, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner, with the Rev. Robert Bronson officiating. Music was provided by organist, Beverly Cataldo who accompanied soloist, Doug Hayes and congregational hymns. Ushers were Fred Weiss and Alvin "Pete" Hansen.

Honorary bearers were the Garner Rotary Club. Casket bearers were Brad Bakken, Josh Swalve, Bryan Frayne, Eddy Simon, Dennis Doble and John Rohlf. Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery, with military rites by the Garner Veterans Ceremonial Unit.

Carrol Maurice Bakken, the son of Carl and Marie (Agrimson) Bakken, was born on August 13, 1921, on a farm near Sebeka, Minnesota, where he was baptized and confirmed in a Lutheran Church. He graduated from the Sebeka High School in 1941 and remained on the home farm until 1943, when he attended Augsburg College. He served his country during WW II in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947, serving most of his time on the U.S. Submarine Besugo in the Pacific Ocean.

On November 29, 1947, he married LaVina Tendall at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Belmond. They lived on a farm south of Clarion until the spring of 1950, when they rented a farm north of Clarion. Seven years later, they purchased a farm south of Garner. While farming, they also raised hogs and turkeys and owned and operated a grain storage and drying business.

Mr. Bakken was involved with founding Unicover Inc. which operated on the Bakken farm from 1975 until 1996, when a fire forced them to relocate east of Britt. In 1976, they moved into Garner. The Bakkens' enjoyed traveling and spent part of each winter in California.

An active member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Mr. Bakken served as treasurer and deacon and belonged to the St. Paul Men's Club. He was a member of the Garner Rotary Club, Crown Jewel Development Corporation, Garner American Legion and the River City SCORE Chapter. He also served a term on the Garner City Council and was on the board of trustees for Prairie View Apartments for 21 years serving one term as President.

He is survived by his wife, LaVina of Garner; three children, James Bakken and his wife, Cheryl of Forest City, Steve Bakken and his wife, Laurie of Apple Valley, Minnesota and Karen Swalve of Garner; a son-in-law, Mike Neeley of New Brighton, Minnesota; eight grandchildren, Cheila Frayne and her husband, Bryan of Garner, Brenda Simon and her husband, Eddy of Mason City, Dawn Bakken of Mason City, Brad Bakken and his wife, Sara of Garner, Alex Bakken of Apple Valley, Minnesota, Heather Swalve of Ames, Melanie Swalve of Cedar Falls and Joshua Swalve of Garner; and five great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are four sisters, Benora Carlson and her husband, Roy of Redlands, California, Viola Davis and her husband, Seth of Vancouver, Washington, Alma Johnson of Redlands, California and Esther Crosby and her husband, Warren of Granite Falls, Minnesota; three half-brothers, Milton Bakken and his wife, Zola of Wanamingo, Minnesota, David Bakken of Owatonna, Minnesota and Paul Bakken and his wife, Toni of San Diego, California; and one half-sister, Ruth Bolson and her husband, Roger of Bloomington, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Annette; his parents; an infant grandson; a brother-in-law, Curtis Johnson; and a half-brother, Ronald Bakken.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Edwin Tiggemann, 1921-2002

March 19, 2002

Long time Klemme area resident, Edwin "Bud" W. Tiggemann, died on Monday, March 11, 2002, at the Concord Care Center in Garner. He was 80.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 15, 2002, at the United Methodist Church in Klemme. The Rev. Paddy Druhl officiated. Music was provided by Muriel Schultz, organist. Ushers were Arlyn Waddingham and Raymond Schoenwetter

Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. Honorary bearers were Ronald "Boots" Brinkman, Dave Waddingham, Richard Baack, Ardell Flaten, Leonard Kaduce and Henry Kaduce. Casket bearers were Harry Anderson, Ken Blank, Brandon Weiland, Kevin Brunes, Dick Korleski and Ken Weiland. The Tenold-Andrews Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Edwin William Tiggemann, was born on January 13, 1921 in Goodell. He was the son of William and Martha (Heginger) Tiggemann. He attended Klemme area public schools. In his earlier life, he worked for various farmers in the area. He was also employed by the railroad for a time.

He was employed as a carpenter by the Klemme Lumber yard for 50 years. Mr. Tiggemann built many A-frame livestock houses and feed bunks for farmers in the North Iowa area. His company was known as "Tiggemann Portables" livestock buildings. He was a former member of the Klemme Lions Club.

He became a resident of the Concord Care Center in November of 1998 and enjoyed visits from family and friends.

Survivors include his sisters, Esther and her husband, Howard Tulp of Goodell and Velma Smith of Mission, Texas; two sisters-in-law, Fern Tiggemann of Mesa, Arizona and Betty Tiggemann of Lebanon, Missouri; many nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Ken Weiland of Klemme.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Robert and Richard; and a nephew, Richard Tiggemann, Jr.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Gladys E. Olthoff, 1921-2002

March 19, 2002

Gladys E. Olthoff, a life long resident of Klemme, died on Monday, March 11, 2002, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa. She was 81.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, March 14, at the Immanuel Reformed Church, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman officiated. Music was provided by organist, Diane Stadtlander who accompanied soloist, Emily Civarelli. Ushers were Terry Woiwood and Kirk Pearson.

Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery. Casket bearer were Travis Olthoff, Mark Wester, Quint Anderson, Tad Hartwig, Jeremy Abele and Mike Branstad. Honorary bearers were, Debra Askiklson, Teresa Wester, Jennifer Olthoff, Deanna Branstad, Kimberly Abele and Emily Civarelli. The Tenold-Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme was in charge of the arrangements.

Gladys Emma Olthoff, was born on January 22, 1921, on her parents farm in rural Klemme. She attended and graduated from Klemme area rural schools.

On February 18, 1944, she was united in marriage to Fred Olthoff at the Immanuel Reformed Church of Christ Parsonage in Klemme. Following Mr. Olthoff's tenure in the service, the couple farmed in rural Klemme. In addition to farming, Mrs. Olthoff was a life long homemaker. The couple enjoyed playing cards and family picnics.

Following the death of her husband, Mrs. Olthoff moved to Klemme, where she has since resided. She was employed as a custodian for the Klemme Grain Elevator for 20 years and did domestic cleaning for many Klemme area residents over the years.

A devoted mother and grandmother, she was active in the Immanuel Reformed Church, where she taught Sunday School and Bible School. She participated in the ladies guild there in earlier years. She enjoyed crafting, quilting, crocheting and cooking.

Survivors include her daughters, Kathryn Sellers and Eileen Netland and her husband, Benjie of Klemme; a son, Verlyn Olthoff and his wife, Kathy of Klemme; and a sister, Lida Eenhuis of Klemme; 12 grandchildren, Travis Olthoff, Tad Hartwig, Mark Wester, Jeremy Abele, Quint Askildson, Mike Branstad, Debra Askildson, Deanna Branstad, Teresa Wester, Kimberly Abele, Jennifer Olthoff and Emily Civarelli; and eight great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are three sisters-in-law, Elsie Berhow of Kanawha, Fannie Ziegler of Mason City and Betty Jones and her husband, Bill of Britt.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred in 1965; and a sister, Mabel Griffen.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Adeline Wilhelmina Kerndt, 1908-2002

March 27, 2002

Adeline Wilhelmina Kerndt, died on Tuesday, March 11, 2002, at the Good Samaritan Center of Waukon, where she had been a resident for the past several years.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 15, at the first Presbyterian Church in Waukon and were presided over by the Reverend Larry Olson.

Adeline was born on March 23, 1908 in Lansing, the daughter of Matthew and Mary (Christoph) Bechtel. She was baptized and confirmed at the Little German Presbyterian Church in Lansing and graduated from the Lansing High School in 1927, after taking the Normal Training Course. She taught rural school in Allamakee County for 9 years.

On June 16, 1937, she married Clarence Arthur Kerndt at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. They farmed together in the Round Prairie area until moving to Waukon in 1970. She worked at the Waukon Co-op Locker until the mid 1980's. Since 1993, she has been a resident of the Good Samaritan Center.

Adeline was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and ladies circle. She was also a former member of Eastern Star in Lansing.

She enjoyed traveling, quilting and gardening. She also loved to watch birds and studied them enough to identify them by their calls. She looked forward to baking cookies and candy during the holiday season each year. Adeline was honored by the Iowa Historical Society for a book she wrote on her family's history. She also wrote another on military service.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Clarence; her son, David; 3 sisters; and 8 brothers.

She is survived by her 2 daughters, Mary Kay (Richard) Winke of Waukon and Becky (Larry) Litterer of Dougherty; a sister, Marie Bieber of Portland, Oregon; 8 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Vera L. Thorn, 1915-2002

March 19, 2002

Vera L. Thorn, died at the Algona Manor Care Center, on Wednesday, March 13, 2002. She was 86.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 16, 2002, at 10:30 a.m., at the United Methodist Church in LuVerne, Rev. Dale Reisner officiating. Interment was in the Union Cemetery, Humboldt, Iowa. Casket bearers were Donald Kruse, David Coyle, John Erickson, Tony Kubly, Mike Bohan and LeRoy Weber. The Garry-Roberts-Murphy-Schaaf Funeral Home of LuVerne, was in charge of the arrangements.

Vera Leona Thorn, was born on December 2, 1915 at Humboldt, Iowa, to John and Mary Anne Petersen Madsen. She received her early education in the Des Moines Township School near Humboldt. The family moved to Denison, Iowa and Vera graduated from the Denison High School in 1933. Vera then attended Sioux Falls College for two years and earned her Teacher's Certificate, after attending summer school in Boulder, Colorado. Vera taught elementary school in LuVerne and Dakota City from 1938 until 1953.

She was married to Joseph Donald Thorn on June 7, 1942 in Springfield, Missouri. The couple lived near LuVerne, where Joe farmed and raised cattle.

Vera was a member of the Oak Hill Baptist Church in Humboldt. She attended, and was very active in the United Methodist Church in LuVerne, where she belonged to the UMW and the Evening Circle. She also played the organ for the church for many years. Vera enjoyed shopping and quilting, Her husband, Joe preceded her in death on June 1, 1989. Vera became a resident of the Algona Manor Care Center in August of 2001.

Vera is survived by her sister, Vivian Erickson of Humboldt; and 3 nephews, Bruce Erickson of Park City, Utah, John Erickson of Humboldt and Francis Erickson of Omaha, Nebraska. Also surviving is her special family, Gary, Pat, Laurie and Carter Ernst of LuVerne, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joe; one niece, Mary Ellen Blakely; and an infant brother, Clarence.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Karl F. Gabelmann, 1924-2002

March 19, 2002

Karl F. Gabelmann, 77, of Ames, died on Tuesday, March 13, 2002, at the Riverside Manor Guest Home in Ames.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 16, at the Fullerton Hage Funeral Home, Charles City. The Rev. John Amiel Anderson officiated. Interment will be in the United Church of Christ Pleasant Cemetery in Nashua, Iowa. The Fullerton Hage Funeral Home of Charles City was in charge of the arrangements.      

Karl Frederick Gabelmann, was born on May 3, 1924. He was the son of William and Christina (Kehret) Gabelman of Clarksville. He spent his childhood and obtained his education in Butler County.

On January 1, 1945, he entered the United States Army with the highest rank of Tech Sgt. He served in the Rhineland and Central Europe. His military occupation was Military Intelligence, IRTC Basic Training, Small Arms Mechanic, Mail Orderly and Machine Gunner-Platoon Leader. He was awarded the Marksman-Carbine SS Rifle, Combat Infantryman Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, Rhineland Silver Service Ribbon and 2 Overseas Service Bars. On July 11, 1946 he was honorably discharged.      

On May 7, 1944, Karl was united in marriage to Kathryn Nickles at the St. John's Lutheran Church, Charles City. He was employed by NFO (National Farmers Organization) for 21 years. Mr. Gabelmann was a member of the American Legion in Garner. He enjoyed woodworking, watching wrestling, eating out, collecting coins and John Deere tractors. He was devoted to his church and his family.

He is survived by his wife, Kathryn; six children, Sandra Powell and her husband, Robert of Clear Lake, Nancy Foster and her husband, Steve of Mansfield, Texas, Fred Gabelmann and his wife, Mary Ann of Derry, New Hampshire, Leanne Chittester and her husband, Tom of Glendale, Arizona, William Gabelmann and his wife, Marla of Bettendorf, Merrie Jo Reavis and her husband, Jeffrey of Phoenix, Arizona; 22 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Other survivors are a sister, Hulda Everding of Tripoli, Iowa and a brother, Walter Gabelmann of Riceville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and three sisters.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Stephanie Shipman

March 19, 2002

Word was received of the death of Stephanie Shipman, infant daughter of Melissa Satern and Steven Shipman of Nora Springs. Stephanie died on Thursday, March 14, 2002, at the Mercy Medical Center, North Iowa at Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 16, at the St. Luke Lutheran Church in Nora Springs. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City.

Survivors are her grandmother, Sheila Shipman and great-grandmother, Janice Shipman, both of Mason City.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandfather, Richard Shipman in March of 1988.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Irma C. Haaf, 1914-2002

March 19, 2002

Irma C. Haaf, 87, of Garner, died on Saturday, March 16, 2002, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital, Britt.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 19, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner, with Fr. Michael Schueller officiating. Lector was Millie Young. Music was provided by organist, Carolyn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Lawrence Engstler and Homer Van Oort.

Honorary bearers were John Kern, David Kern, Andy Kern, Pat Haaf, Jeff Haaf, David Haaf, John Haaf and Steven Lee. Casket bearers were Tom Kern, Lynn Worley, Todd Worley, Ron Lee, Mike Nelson and Cody Haaf. Interment was in the St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Irma Cecelia Haaf, the daughter of Bernard and Cecile (Bryant) Knoll, was born on November 12, 1914 at Marshalltown. She graduated from the Garner High School in 1932 as class valedictorian.

On April 23, 1935, she was married to John Joseph Haaf at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner. They lived in Garner where they owned and operated an upholstery business. Mrs. Haaf also worked in the Garner-Hayfield School system as a cook for many years. She moved to Prairie View Apartments in Garner on July 21, 1994. She enjoyed her family, sewing, handwork and crafts.

She was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church, Rosary Society, and the Garner VFW Auxiliary.

She is survived by her five children, Phyllis Kern and her husband, Joe of Clear Lake, Phillip Haaf and his wife, Geraldine of Cedar Rapids, Wanda Worley and her husband, Robert of Cedar Rapids, Bonnie Lee of Davenport and Mark Haaf and his wife, Lori of Garner; 27 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; a sister, LaVon Lemke of Garner; a sister-in-law, Georgia Kennedy of Texas; a brother-in-law, Raymond Swalve of Fremont, California; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John on December 19, 1981; her daughter, Juanita on August 27, 1993; a granddaughter, Kim Nelson; a brother, Elmer Knoll; and four sisters, Elsie Dorenkamp, Isabelle Dankbar, Reta Juhl and Lorraine Swalve.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Mary M. Monson, 1913-2002

March 19, 2002

Mary M. Monson, 88, of Woden, died on Saturday, March 16, 2002, at the Good Samaritan Center, Forest City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 19, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Woden, with the Rev. Arlen Lloyd officiating. Music was provided by organist, Emogene Kurtzleben who accompanied soloist, Margie Markusen and congregational hymns. Ushers were John Kurtzleben and Dennis Smith.

Casket bearers were Andrew Buffington, Eric Bruns, Dave Schneider, Joseph Baker, Don Krull and Larry Burma. Interment was in the Bingham Township Cemetery near Woden. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Woden was in charge of the arrangements.

Mary Martha Monson, the daughter of George and Wilhelmine (Thielengerdes) Ehlers, was born on July 31, 1913, on a farm south of Woden. She attended the Madole rural school west of Woden until 1919, when she moved with her family to Hettinger, North Dakota. She continued her education at a country school near Hettinger. In 1934, Mary returned to Iowa and lived with her maternal grandmother on a farm east of Woden.

In March of 1939, she was married to Jack Monson at Blue Earth, Minnesota. The couple made their home in Woden where she was a homemaker. She then worked at the Woden-Crystal Lake School, both as a custodian and later as a teacher's aide until 1984 when she retired. In 1999, she moved to the Prairie View Apartments in Garner.

Mrs. Monson enjoyed baking, spending time in her garden, crocheting, visiting with friends and spending time with her family. She was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church and St. John's Lutheran Women.

She is survived by her three children, John Monson and his wife, Karen of Forest City and their three daughters, Kristi Monson of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Kelly Schneider and her husband, Dave of Forest City and their two sons, Jake and Isaac, Kim Price of Forest City and her two sons, Mitchell and Jack, Janice Buffington and her husband, Forrest of Minneapolis and their two children, Ellen Bruns and her husband, Eric of Britt and their two daughters, Elizabeth and Ahnalise and Andrew Buffington and his wife, Kelia of Forest City and their two daughters, Madeline and Isabel and Jean Baker and her husband, Bill of Kasson, Minnesota and their three children, Ann Baker of Kasson, Susan Baker of Rochester, Minnesota and Joseph Baker of Kasson; a sister, Ann Walch of Cerritos, California; and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her parents; three brothers, John, George and Fred Ehlers; and two sisters, Elsie Ehlers and Martha Larson.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Hazel E. Peterson, 1929-2002

March 27, 2002

Hazel E. Peterson, 74, of Miller, died on Sunday, March 17, 2002, at the Manly Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Graveside services were held on Wednesday, March 20, at the Crystal Township Cemetery in Crystal Lake, with the Rev. Owen Gaasedelen of the Faith Lutheran Church in Miller officiating. The Cataldo Funeral Home, Garner, was in charge of the arrangements. There was no visitation.

Hazel Elizabeth Peterson, the daughter of Ed and Minnie (Olson) Stalheim, was born on August 3, 1927 at Scarville. She graduated from the Scarville High School and continued her education at Waldorf College in Forest City, where she received her teaching certificate. She taught in the rural schools in Winnebago County.

On March 12, 1949, she was married to Gilbert Wayne Peterson at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. They farmed at Crystal Lake, Forest City, Fertile and Garner until 1975. In February of 1976, they opened Garner Electronics, which they owned and operated until 1982.

After her husband's death in 1981, she moved to Miller. Hazel enjoyed her family and friends. She was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Miller.

She is survived by her daughter, Julie Ann Adams and her husband, Richard of Kensett; a brother, Kenneth Stalheim and his special friend, Melba Kuper of Nora Springs; a sister, Norma Jorgenson of Austin, Minnesota; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert on February 28, 1981; her parents; three sisters, Frances Stalheim, Esther Thorson and Aggie Tollagson; and a brother, Arnie Stalheim.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Eva E. Hall, 1919-2002

March 27, 2002

Eva E. Hall, 82, of Garner, died on Sunday, March 17, 2002, at the Walker Colonial Manor Nursing Home, South Sioux City, Nebraska, following a lengthy illness.

Her funeral was held on Friday, March 22, at the Faith Lutheran Church in Miller, with the Rev. Owen Gaasedelen officiating. Music was provided by organist, Beverly Cataldo who accompanied soloist, Warren Torkelson and congregational hymns. Ushers were David Luscomb and Chris Juhl.

Casket bearers were Larry Steward, Jonathan Steward, Patrick Steward, Jeffrey Anderson, Mark Schmit and Paul Austin. Interment was in the Ellington Prairie Cemetery near Miller. The Cataldo Funeral Home, Garner, was in charge of the arrangements.

Eva Elaine Anderson Hall, was born on July 31, 1919 in Forest City Iowa, the daughter of Charles and Anna (Anderson) Hodson. She graduated from the Forest City High School and taught in the country schools near Forest City for four years.

On May 17, 1941, she was married to Bert Anderson. They farmed in the Ventura area until his death in 1952. On October 30, 1955, she was married to Harold Hall. They lived northeast of Garner before moving into Garner in 1984.

Mrs. Hall worked for the Ventura High School as a secretary to the principal and as a library assistant for four years. She attended classes at Mason City Junior College and graduated from Drake University in 1973. For 17 years she was a first grade teacher at the Titonka Community Schools. She enjoyed her grandchildren, arranging flowers and attending basketball games.

She was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church and the area Happy Birthday Club

She is survived by her husband, Harold Hall of Garner; her son, Ron Anderson and his wife, Nancy of Sioux City; two daughters, LaVonne Runft and her husband, Tom of Colbert, Washington and Kathleen Steward and her husband, Larry of Missouri City, Texas; three step-children, Terry Hall and his wife, Marcie of Woodland Hills, California, David Hall and his wife, Karen of Conaga Park, California and Marilyn Kruse and her husband, Daryl of Des Moines; eight grandchildren, Jeffrey Anderson and his wife, Lisa, Christine Flemr and her husband, Matthew, Stephanie Schmit and her husband, Mark, Heather Johnson, Jason Runft, Jeremy Runft, Jonathan Steward, and Patrick Steward; four step-grandchildren, Melissa Kruse, Jeniffer Kruse, Krystle Kruse, Daniel Kruse; five great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are a sister, Hazel Greiman and her husband, Lawrence of Garner; brothers and sisters-in-law, Vivian Anderson of Ventura, Dorothy Anderson of Ventura, Carrie and Bernard Greiman of Garner, Marie Hodson of Forest City, Galen and Mary Hall of Mankato, Minnesota, Merle and Marge Hall of Forest City, Doris and Marvin Juhl of Forest City, Myrtle and Merle Yanecek of Cedar Rapids and Leonard and Donna Hall of Maine.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Bert Anderson; an infant daughter, Jeanette Anderson; step-son, Keith Hall; two grandsons, Douglas Anderson and Michael Steward; three brothers, Howard, Donald and Ralph Hodson; and two sisters, Helen Gjerde and Lois Austin.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Marva D. Brade, 1915-2002

March 27, 2002

Marva D. Brade, 86, of Garner, died on Wednesday, March 20, 2002, at the Good Shepherd Health Care Center, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 23, at the Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner, with the Rev. Kay Hooper of the United Methodist Church officiating. Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Marva Dorothy Brade, the daughter of John and Mary (Ford) Brade, was born on July 3, 1915 at Garner. She attended school at Garner, where she graduated from high school in 1933. After graduation, she took care of her father until his death in 1961 and also held various jobs in Garner.

In 1964, she moved to Des Moines where she worked at Esther Hall, a residence hall for women. Marva then returned to Garner and worked at the county home in Duncan.

Marva was a resident of the Prairie View Apartments in Garner and later Lakeland Apartments in Clear Lake, before moving to the Good Shepherd Health Care Center in Mason City in 1998. She enjoyed photography, painting, ceramics, flowers and traveling. She will always be remembered by her great-nephews for making them birthday cakes.

Marva was a member of the United Methodist Church where she had been active in the church youth group many years ago.

She is survived by her nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

Miss Brade was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; and four sisters.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Ann C. Arndorfer, 1914-2002

April 2, 2002

Ann C. Arndorfer, 87, of Britt, died on Monday, March 25, 2002, at her home.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 29, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church of Britt. The Rev. Marvin Bries officiated. Bonnie Pals served as lector. Music was provided by organist, Brenda Smith who accompanied soloist, Karlee Schultz. A special selection was by Ellen Gatton. Ushers were Allan Doughan and Marvin Holck.

Burial was in the St. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery, Britt. Casket bearers were Melvin Arndorfer, Dean Weber, Duane Diemer, Will Freeseman, Don Weber and Robert Witte. Honorary bearers were Jason Arndorfer, Michael Arndorfer, Ryan Arndorfer, Nick Arndorfer, Jon Beckman, Paul Arndorfer, Brandon Steenlage and Jeffrey Beckman. The Ewing Funeral Home, Britt, was in charge of the arrangements.

Ann, the daughter of Frederick August and Louise Hageman Siemer, was born on September 12, 1914 in Wesley, Iowa. She grew up in the Wesley area and graduated from the Wesley High School as the valedictorian of the class of 1932.

She was united in marriage with Bernard A. "Ben" Arndorfer on September 14, 1937, in Wesley and made their home in St. Benedict. In 1939, they moved to the Britt area, where they farmed together until 1972. The couple moved into Britt in 1974.

Mrs. Arndorfer enjoyed needlework, gardening, and floral design. She was a talented and avid cook. Ann enjoyed playing cards and board games. She shared her many skills with family and friends.

A long time active member of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Mrs. Arndorfer served through leadership in the Rosary Guild and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. For the past 13 years she served as sacristan and florist for the church.

She is survived by two sons, Jerrold R. and wife, Ann of Spokane, Washington and James D. and wife, Linda of Britt; four daughters, Mary A. Place and husband, Gregory of Rochester, Minnesota, Janice L. Beckman and husband, James of Worthington, Minnesota, Janet L. Steenlage and husband, Les of Coralville and Karen L. Arndorfer and husband, Rob Curtner of East Lansing, Michigan; a daughter-in-law, Janice A. Arndorfer of Hampton; 16 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are a sister, Frances Weber of Wesley; and a sister-in-law, Christa Siemer of Aurora, Colorado.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ben in 1977; a son, David in 1987; three brothers, Clarence, Lee and Marvin; two sisters, Leona and one in infancy.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Msgr. Roger O'Brien, 1915-2002

April 2, 2002

The Rev. Msgr. Roger E. O'Brien, former pastor of the St. Boniface parish in Garner from 1980 to 1990, died on Wednesday, March 27, 2002, at the Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque. He was 87.

Funeral services were held in Dubuque at the Church of the Nativity, on Monday, April 1. Burial was in the St. Mary Cemetery in Ackley, Iowa. A Memorial Mass for Msgr. O'Brien was held at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, April 2, 2002, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church, Garner.

Rev. Msgr. Roger O'Brien, was born on March 3, 1915 in Geneva, Iowa. He was the son of John and Bridget (Donahue) O'Brien. He graduated from Loras College in Dubuque and completed his theological studies at the St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He earned his Master's Degree in Education from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. in 1952. He was ordained on May 30, at the St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque by Archbishop Francis J. Beckman.

Msgr. O'Brien served as associate pastor of Immaculate Conception in Charles City (1942-44) and St. Patrick's in Dubuque (1944-45). He served as secretary of the matrimonial court from 1944-45. In 1945 he began teaching at the Loras Academy in Dubuque and served as Principal there from 1952-1959.

He was pastor of St. Henry's in Marshalltown (1959-67), Immaculate Conception in Cedar Rapids (1967-70), Church of the Nativity in Dubuque (1970-1980) and St. Boniface in Garner from 1980 until his retirement to the Villa Raphel in Dubuque in 1990.

He was appointed arch-diocesan consulter in 1965 and named a prelate of honor (Monsignor) in 1974. He served as Dean of the Mason City Deanery from 1982 to 1988.

Condolences may be sent to Msgr. O'Brien's niece, Mary Pat Cole and her husband, Gene of Mason City or his nephew, Mike O'Brien and his wife, Mary at Geneva.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Robert Edwin Lee, 1942-2002

April 10, 2002

Robert "Bob" E. Lee, of Mason City, died on Wednesday, March 27, 2002, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City. He was 59.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 30, at the Major Erickson Funeral Home of Mason City, with the Rev. Dennis Cahill of the Holy Family Catholic Church officiating.

Robert Edwin Lee, was born on December 14, 1942 in Belmond. He was the son of Paul and Marian (Studebaker) Lee. He was a 1961 graduate of the Belmond High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, becoming a rifle marksman, until his discharge.

On September 11, 1965, he married Patricia "Pat" Ulrich. The couple made their home in Mason City. He was a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church. He enjoyed bowling, hunting, fishing, cards, cribbage and country-western music.

Survivors include his wife, Pat Lee of Mason City; two sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Jill Lee of Austin and Paul and Miranda Lee of Mason City; one daughter and son-in-law, Kathy Lee-Hudson and Jon Hudson of Nora Springs; 13 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild; his mother, Marian Kuper of Belmond; four sisters and two brothers-in-law, Dixie and Larry Lamoreux of Mason City, Diane Reasoner of Decatur, Illinois, Ginger and Mark Stille of Goodell and Betty Lee of Cedar Rapids; one brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Sue Lee of California.

Also surviving are his father and mother-in-law, Richard and Pauline Ulrich of Klemme; a sister-in-law, Donna Katter and her husband, Lynn of New York; two aunts; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; step-father, Harold Kuper; a brother, Rick; brother-in-law, Larry Ulrich; and maternal and paternal grandparents.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002

Velma Krause, 1910-2002

April 10, 2002

Velma M. Krause, 91, of Kanawha, died on Saturday, March 30, 2002, at the Kanawha Community Home.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 3, 2002, at the United Methodist Church of Kanawha. Pastor Susan Detwiler officiated. Music was provided by organist, Joann Hansen who accompanied soloist, Pat Hartwig and congregational hymns. Chuck Hartwig and Bill Harson were ushers.

Casket bearers were Matthew Krause, Martin Krause, Tom Krause, Gregory Krause, David Krause and Timothy Krause. Burial was in the Amsterdam Township Cemetery, Kanawha. The Ewing-Dugger Funeral Home of Kanawha was in charge of the arrangements.

Velma Mae Krause, was born near Corwith on September 7, 1910. Her parents were Robert William and Mathilda Clark Hughes. She grew up in Hancock County on various farms and attended country schools around Corwith, Stilson and Britt.

She attended high school in Britt and graduated from the Goldfield High School in 1929. She attended Britt Junior College for two years as well as attending summer school in Cedar Falls. She taught for two years in a country school.

Velma Mae Hughes married Gerhart Herman Krause on November 18, 1934, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. They made their home on various farms until they bought 80 acres near Kanawha. They raised their six children in the Kanawha area.

Mrs. Krause was interested in education and reading was a main pastime. Other hobbies included sewing, quilting, gardening, tending flowers, cooking, photography and nature watching. She also enjoyed traveling. The pinnacle of her travels was going to her parental homelands of Wales and Scotland following a visit to London, England.

She was a member of the Kanawha United Methodist Church and UMW and served in many circles. She also enjoyed Bible studies as well as teaching children and adult Sunday School classes. She was a member of The Builders Club, Country Women's Club, ABC Club of Kanawha, and County Cousins trips to Mississippi. She had a life membership to the Liberty School Museum and helped relocate and establish it as a museum.

Husband, family, and church were first and foremost all of her adult years. Velma is survived by her six children and their spouses, twins, Jerold Krause and Hoa of Kansas City, Kansas and Joanne Myers and husband, Don of Austin, Texas, Duane Krause and wife, Sharon of Britt, Max Krause and wife, Carolyn of Kanawha, Bette Hejlik and husband, Arnold of Rockwell and Donald Krause and wife, Carol of East Brunswick, New Jersey; 20 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandsons; and extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gerhart; infant twin daughters, Marian and Martha; five brothers, Amos, John, Ralph, Kenneth and Glenn; two sisters, Myrna Tripp and Mary Harle; three grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Maryann Krause.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2002