Former Garner resident, Marie M. Duesenberg, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, died on Friday, February 3, 2006. She was 95.

Private services and burial will be held in the Concord Cemetery in Garner at a later date.

There will be no visitation. Memorials may be directed to the Humane Society-Calhoun Area or the charity of your choice. The Langeland Family Funeral Homes Memorial Chapel of Kalamazoo, is in charge of the arrangements.

Marie was born on December 24, 1910 in Garner. She was the daughter of Henry and Eva (Hix) Duesenberg. She was a graduate of the Garner High School, attended Morningside College for two years, and taught in Iowa schools for 13 years. She received a B.A. Degree from the University of Colorado, and a Library Science Degree from the University of Illinois.

She was employed with the Battle Creek Willard Library in 1946 as head of the Circulation Department, and retired in 1976 as Assistant Director. She was a charter member of the Battle Creek Travel Club and was active on the Board of the Humane Society-Calhoun Area for 19 years. She was also a member of the First United Methodist Church and the Battle Creek Altrusa Club.

Jane Greimann, of Ames, died at the Israel Family Hospice in Ames on Saturday, February 4, 2006, following a battle with lung cancer. She was 64.

A worship service entitled Witness to the Resurrection was held on Thursday, February 9, at the Collegiate Presbyterian Church in Ames. The Rev. Larry Mitchell and the Rev. Vicky Curtis officiated. A private burial of her cremains was in the ISU Cemetery. The Adams Funeral Home of Ames was in charge of the arrangements.

Jane Greimann was born on January 25, 1942, in Klemme to Chet and Ina Mae (Jarchow) Renner. She grew up on the farm, learning to love horses. She held leadership positions in 4-H. She graduated from the Klemme High School in 1960. She graduated from Iowa State University in Textile and Clothing in 1964. She earned a teaching certificate in 1980.

Jane married Lowell Greimann in Klemme on June 7, 1964. They moved to Boulder, Colorado, where she worked as a seamstress and then office worker to support her husband's further education and proudly bore their first son, Chad. The family moved to San Antonio where their second son, Blair was born. While in Texas, Jane worked with children in the Hispanic community and low-income adults.

The Greimanns returned to Ames in 1973. Jane flew to Chicago in 1975 to bring home their adopted daughter, Amy who arrived from Viet Nam.

Jane taught art, health, and family and consumer science at the Nevada Junior High for 16 years. She worked on studies of student health with regard to cholesterol, helped to start a breakfast program, taught parenting classes, made a five-week trip to Russia in 1992, and sat on the Board of Eastern Story County Youth and Shelter Services. She retired from full-time employment in 1998.

Jane held numerous volunteer positions at the Collegiate Presbyterian Church, including chair of the most recent pastor search committee, Elder, Deacon, Sunday School Teacher for both children and adults, co-leader of mid-week program for children, the Walk Through Bethlehem Project and other committees.

She served in the House of Representatives of the Iowa Legislature for five years on such committees as public education funding, human services, environment, judicial, human resources, and natural resources. She was on the Mid-Iowa Community Action Board and Hawk-I-State Board. Jane believed in more preventive programs and more humane sentencing laws in our corrections system.

Her volunteer work also included President of the local League of Women Voters, Democratic Caucus organizer, Ames Public Art Commission and the Education and Prevention Board of Youth and Shelter Services. She was an alumnus and supporter of the Iowa State University College of Family and Consumer Science (now Human Sciences) and the ISU Football and Basketball programs.

A broad diversity of interests kept Jane active outside of her professional life.

Survivors include her husband, Lowell Greimann of Ames; three children and six grandchildren, Chad (Chris) Greimann, and their children, Zachary, Emma, Alexander and Evelyn Mae of Iowa City, Amy (Winston) Trotter and their child, Isabella of Bolingbrook. Illinois and Blair (Angie) Greimann and their child, Eve of Denver, Colorado.

Additional survivors include her father, Chet (Elsie) Renner of Clear Lake; and two brothers, Bill Renner of Garner and Tom Renner of Ventura.

Laurence Greiman, 1911-2006

February 8, 2006

Laurence Greiman, 94, of Garner, died on Saturday, February 4, 2006, at the Good Samaritan Center, Forest City.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 8, at 10:30 a.m., at the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner with the Rev. Tim Diehl officiating. Music will be provided by organist, Margaret Jass. Ushers will be Daryl Upmeyer and Glen Greiman.

Casket bearers will be Amy Peterson, Brad Peterson, Celine Hartwig, Andrew Hartwig, Brad Muhm and Glen Alden. Burial will be in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church. The Cataldo Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Laurence Eugene Theodore Greiman, the son of William Henry and Bessie (Schultz) Greiman, was born on May 22, 1911, on a farm north of Klemme. He attended rural school near his home and graduated from the Klemme High School. After high school he worked with his father on the family farm.

On December 11, 1937, he married Hazel Mae Hodson at Forest City. They farmed in the Garner and Klemme areas. In 1951, they moved into Klemme and a year later into Garner.

Besides farming Laurence worked at a creamery and sawmill. In his retirement years, he was a taxi driver at Prairie View Apartments in Garner. In February of 2004 he became a resident of the Good Samaritan Center in Forest City. He enjoyed his family, gardening and was an avid reader. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting, trapping and fishing.

He was a member of the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner.

Laurence is survived by his children, Bill (Liela) Greiman of Santa Rosa, California and Janice (Tim) Hartwig of Ankeny; grandchildren, Sonja (Brad) Muhm of Garner, Andrew (Celine) Hartwig of Iowa City and Amy (Brad) Peterson of Ankeny; three great-grandchildren; three sisters, Hallie Stromer of Rapid City, South Dakota, Esther Fillmore of Marion and Gladys (Eldridge) Alden of Klemme; brothers, Victor (Lois) Greiman of Dayton, Ohio and Earl (Alice) Greiman of Golden, Colorado; and many nieces and nephews.

Robert G. Nedved of Britt, died on Monday, February 6, 2006, at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt. He was 83.

A Funeral Mass was held on Friday, February 10, at the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt. The Rev. Michael Schueller officiated. Music was provided by Brenda Smith who accompanied soloist, John Weishaar. Burial was in the St. John's Catholic Cemetery, Duncan. Military graveside services were provided by the Britt Ceremonial Unit. The Ewing Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Honorary casket bearers were Jeremy Paulsen, J. P. Zigman, Justice Paulsen, Cass Nedved, McKenzie Paulsen, Jason Paulsen, Whitney Johnson and Cole Nedved. Casket bearers were Bryan Nedved, Lewis Allen Nedved, Karl Nedved, Ron Nedved, Ken Formanek, Jim Nedved and Gary Kral.

Robert George Nedved, the son of Stanley and Mary Bastyr Nedved, was born on May 23, 1922, in Britt. He attended country schools. Robert helped on the family farm until he went to Airplane Mechanics School in Omaha. He returned to the Britt area and worked for the E. B. Nedved farms.

Robert was drafted into the Army Air Force and served for a few years before marrying Phyllis Holecek on May 7, 1945, in Great Bend, Kansas. While he was overseas, Phyllis helped her family on the farm.

Following his discharge, he worked at Pritchard Garage in Garner for about ten years. Robert and Phyllis moved to Garner where he worked for Joe Lamp two years selling machinery and farming. They moved to Wesley where they farmed for another two years. Finally, the couple moved to Duncan where they continued farming and Robert opened his own mechanic's shop in 1973.

Robert entertained residents at Westview Care Center by playing the accordion. He played with Bing Greiman in Garner and had numerous band mates throughout his life. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, fishing, and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He was a member of the Saint Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt and the Britt American Legion Post #315.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis; three daughters, Patricia Kay Chisholm (Jack) of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jeanne Marie Zigmant (Jim) of Lemont, Illinois and Linda Sue Johnson (John) of Britt; son, Robert Alan Nedved, Jr. (Tandi) of Garner; six grandchildren, Jeremy Paulsen, Jason Paulsen, Cole Nedved, J.P. Zigmant, Whitney Johnson, and Cass Nedved; two great-grandchildren, Justice Paulsen and McKenzie Paulsen.

Also surviving are five brothers and sisters, Adeline Kral (Marty) of Thompson, Lewis Nedved (Barbara) of Garner, Blanche Habermaier (George) of St. Paul, Minnesota, Edward Nedved (Kitty) of Sussex, Wisconsin and Sally Bauer (Bill) of New Prague, Minnesota; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

Thomas R. Romp passed away on Monday, February 6, 2006, in Spokane, Washington.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 4, at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Spokane, Washington. Interment will be in Garner on Saturday, April 22, at 10:00 a.m.

He was born on September 12, 1928, to Rollie and Thea Romp in Jewell. They move to Garner when Tom was 2.

Tom graduated from the Garner High School and joined the Navy. He served his country during the Korean War. He returned to Garner and then started working as a carpenter and cement finisher.

He married in 1964 and is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughter, Audrey DeWeese of California; sons, Eric Romp of Minnesota, Dale Romp of Ohio; and grandchildren, Oliver and Sarah DeWeese of California.

Tom moved his family to Spokane, Washington in 1972, and worked as a carpenter and cement mason until he retired. He loved to hunt and fish and enjoyed the Great Northwest at a cabin he built on Mt. Spokane. Tom did a lot of reading and took pride in keeping his home, lawn and garden well cared for.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2006

Ruth T. Juhl, 86, of Garner, died on Tuesday, February 7, 2006, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 11, at the Faith Lutheran Church in Miller with the Rev. Owen Gaasedelen officiating. Music was provided by organist, Margaret Torkelson who accompanied soloist, Warren Torkelson and congregational hymns. Ushers were Eric and Brian Thoreson.

Honorary bearers were Alison Juhl, Molly Juhl, Melissa Juhl, Jordan Anderson, Nicholas Juhl and Alexis Juhl. Casket bearers were Jeff Juhl, Tom Juhl, Kevin Juhl, Alan Juhl, Trent Anderson and Brent Eden. Burial was in the Ellington Township Cemetery near Miller. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Ruth Thora Schow, the daughter of William and Clara (Solsaa) Schow, was born on March 10, 1919, on a farm northwest of Ventura. She attended country school near her home and the Ventura Elementary School. She graduated from the Garner High School in 1937 and continued her education at Iowa State Teacher's College in Cedar Falls. After receiving her teaching certificate she began teaching in the Ellsworth Community Schools.

On August 21, 1942, she was married to Norman Juhl at Macon, Missouri. They lived on the Juhl family farm near Miller. Ruth taught school in Rudd for two years after their marriage and then retired to become a full time wife and mother for their three children, Mary Ann, Chris and Mark.

In 1971 she returned to work as a teacher's aid in Garner. Ruth thoroughly enjoyed her family, grandchildren and many friends she made throughout her life. She was an active member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Miller, where she taught Sunday School and played the piano for church services for many years.

Ruth is survived by her children, Mary Ann Juhl of Des Moines, Chris (Mary) Juhl of Garner and Mark (Carol) Juhl who live on the family farm near Miller; grandchildren, Tom (Stephanie) Juhl of Watertown, Wisconsin, Alison (Brent) Eden of Cannon Falls, Minnesota, Jeff Juhl, Molly Juhl, Melissa Juhl and fiancée, Trent Anderson of Forest City, Kevin Juhl and Alan Juhl; three great-grandchildren, Jordan Anderson, Nicholas Juhl and Alexis Juhl.

Evelyn M. Smidt, 85, of Britt, died on Friday, February 10, 2006, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 13, at the Britt United Methodist Church with the Rev. Robert Dodge officiating. Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery in Britt. The Ewing Dugger Funeral Home, Britt, was in charge of the arrangements.

Evelyn, the daughter of Floyd G. and Lucy Mary (Boutilier) Charbonneaux, was born on January 1, 1921, in Ottawa, Illinois. At a young age, she moved with her family to the Britt area where she attended school.

On August 20, 1937, Evelyn married Ole Smidt, Sr. in Britt. She worked various places in Britt, including the milk plant, hospital, nursing home and also did child care.

Evelyn enjoyed walking, cooking, baking and making quilts. She loved to feed and watch the birds and squirrels. She attended the Britt United Methodist Church.

Survivors include one daughter, Emily Redmond of Charles City; two sons, Ole Smidt, Jr. and his wife, Mary of Britt and Allan Smidt and his wife, Susan of Tilden, Nebraska; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; one brother, Roy Charbonneaux of Britt; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dorothy Simonsen, 82, a resident of Waco, Texas for 13 years, and formerly of Lewisville, Texas and Iowa, died on Friday, February 10, 2006, in Grapevine, Texas.

A memorial service was held at 3:00 p.m., on Sunday, February 12, 2006, at the Donnelly's Colonial Funeral Home Chapel in Irving, Texas.

Born February 20, 1923, in Buena Vista County, Iowa, to Clarence and Muriel Arnett Luther, she married Kenneth Simonsen on June 10, 1943, in Dakota City, Nebraska. Dot was a member of the Speegleville United Methodist Church, Speegleville, Texas.

Survivors include her daughters, Jeanne Larson and husband, Randy of Waco, Pam Smith and husband, Sam of Rockford, Illinois and Gayle Laningham and husband, Don of Euless; son, Dennis Simonsen of Waco; seven grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

Edna V. Lauen, 94, of Meservey and Belmond, died on Saturday, February 11, 2006, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 14, at the Salem United Methodist Church, Meservey. The Rev. Rodney Meester of First Reformed Church, Meservey, presiding. Interment was in the Meservey Cemetery. The Retz-Grarup Funeral Home of Meservey was in charge of the arrangements.

Edna Vilora Lauen, daughter of William and Laura (Veitmeier) Koehler was born on the family farm near Meservey on October 28, 1911. She attended and graduated from the Meservey High School in 1929. She graduated from the Bethesda School of Nursing in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1932 as a Registered Nurse.

Edna worked in Cincinnati and then at the University of Michigan in Ann Harbor. Later she worked at the Hospital of the Good Samaritan in Los Angeles and the Shriner's Hospital in Honolulu. She served in the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps from September 1942 until February 1946. Of this she served 10 months on duty in the South Pacific.

On January 28, 1948, Edna was united in marriage with Herman H. Lauen in Los Angeles. They farmed northwest of Meservey and lived there together until after retirement.

Edna joined the Evangelical United Brethren Church in 1929. In 1948, she transferred her church membership to the First Reformed Church in Meservey. She served as a member of the Reformed Church Women. Edna was a life member of the American Legion Post 171 at Meservey. She was fond of literature, enjoyed reading, travel and music. Family and friends were treasured.

Survivors include her sister, Viola Bredlow of Garner; nieces and nephews; and special friends, Nancy and Ron Harms of Belmond.

Ronald D. Karsjens, 70, of Garner, died on Saturday, February 11, 2006, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 14, at the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner with the Rev. Tim Diehl officiating. Music was provided by organist, Margaret Jass and pianist, Mary Etherington. Special music was provided by Jon Keese and JoAnne Gentle. Al DeWitt and Ron Bogle ushered.

Casket bearers were Jon Keese, Dan Brozik, Marty Karsjens, Tim Karsjens, Paul Brozik and Roger Brady. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Ronald Dean Karsjens, the son of Martin and Belle Irene (Waddingham) Karsjens, was born February 21, 1935, on a farm near Klemme. He attended Klemme Schools graduating in 1954.

On June 20, 1954, he married Kay Annette Jacobs at the United Methodist Church in Klemme. Ron worked for various companies as a truck driver in the Midwest for 30 years. He received numerous awards for safe driving. Due to ill health, he retired from driving in 1993. He enjoyed carpentry, baking, crocheting, watching Iowa Basketball and his grandchildren.

He was a member of the Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church, where he was church custodian for eight years.

Ron is survived by his wife, Kay of Garner; three children and their families, son, Timothy (LeaAnn) Karsjens of Des Moines and their four children, Chantyl (Jason) Hall and their three children, Hunter, Hannah and Henry; Shad (Amanda) Mensing and their children, Madalynn and Mason; Danita (Cory) Hamilton and their daughter, Makayla; Martin Karsjens and fiancee, Val Barker and their daughter, Bailey; daughter, Cynthia (Jon) Keese of Huxley and their two daughters, Katy Keese and fiance, Daniel Strohm and Molly Keese; and daughter, Susan (Dan) Brozik of Garner and their two sons, Paul and Bryant Brozik; a sister, Delores (Carl, Jr.) Pearson of Klemme; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Robert D. Kitner, died on Saturday, February 11, 2006, at the Mercy Hospital Medical Center in Des Moines at the age of 80.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 14, at the New Virginia United Methodist church in New Virginia. The Rev. Henry Grant officiated.

Honorary bearers were Kelsey Zasada, Lisa Kitner, Melinda Thede, Kami Kaczor, Emilyn Kitner and Sarah Thede. Casket bearers were Dave Kitner, Mark Kaczor, Mathew Jacobe, Sam Thede, Steve Adams and Cody Jacobe. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery at Thompson.

Robert Dean Kitner, the son of Samuel and Mary (Willert) Kitner, was born on June 28, 1925, at Thompson. He graduated from the Fertile High School in Fertile.

He was united in marriage to Emilyn Dreyer on November 11, 1949, in Thompson. The couple spent the earlier years of their life in the North Central Iowa area and later moved to South Central Iowa. He has lived in New Virginia for the past 12 years.

Robert was a farmer. He enjoyed going to auctions and taking care of animals. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Emilyn; children, Roger Kitner of New Virginia, Lois Standley and husband, Donald of Garner, Robin Kitner and Russell Kitner both of Des Moines, Dale Kitner and wife, Laura of Peru and Linda Thede and husband Paul of Boone; grandchildren, Kelsey Zasada, Kami Kaczor, Benji Kitner, Dave Kitner, Lisa Kitner, Emilyn Kitner, Sam Thede, Melinda Thede and Sarah Thede; and nine great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are sisters, Florence Graff of Mason City and Lillian (June) Weaver of Thompson; sister-in-law, Opal Kitner of Forest City; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Juanita C. Meyers, 84, of Clear Lake, died on Tuesday, February 14, 2006, at the Sartori Memorial Hospital, Cedar Falls, from complications due to cancer.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 18, at the Klemme United Methodist Church, Klemme. The Rev. Paddy Druhl officiated. Burial was in the Ell Township Cemetery, Klemme. The Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme was in charge of the arrangements.

Juanita, the daughter of Wallace Frush and Johanna Catarina (Coobs) Pavey, was born April 6, 1921, in Klemme. She graduated from the Klemme High School in 1938.

On October 12, 1940, she married John Dwight Clements at the Methodist Church in Estherville. They lived in Klemme, where they operated the Klemme DX service station and repair business for many years. John died on November 8, 1968. She then worked for the Garner School System.

In 1974 she married Howard Meyers. The couple lived in Clear Lake where she worked part time at the Surf Ballroom. He passed away in 1989. She continued to reside in Clear Lake until December 2005 when she moved to the Cedar Falls Health Care Center.

Juanita enjoyed visits from family and friends. She also enjoyed the companionship of her cats, Tina and Millie, and enjoyed bird watching. Her family treasured her talent of crocheting, cross-stitching and quilting.

Juanita is survived by her sons, James (Karon) Clements of Cedar Falls and Jerry (Judy) Clements of Aiken, South Carolina; four grandsons, Jeffrey (Kris) Clements of Cedar Falls, Jonathan Clements of Ames, Jason (Sheri) Clements of West Des Moines and Jon A. Clements of North Augusta, South Carolina; and four great-grandchildren.

Survivors also include one brother, Wayne Pavey of Webster City; and several nieces and nephews.

Isabel S. Stromer, 84, of Garner, died on Tuesday, February 14, 2006, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 18, at 10:00 a.m., at the Peace Reformed Church south of Garner with the Rev. Jeff DeBoer as officiant. Music was provided by organist, Connie Greiman who accompanied congregational hymns. Special music was provided by Brenda Anderson and Brent Renner. Ushers were Greg Schlawin and Bill Katter.

Casket bearers were Daniel Stromer, William Stromer, Ben Hanson, William Katter, Sr., Harlan Abbas and Matthew Abbas. Burial was in the church cemetery. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Isabel Sophie Stromer, the daughter of William D. and Emma (Dreyer) Dohrmann was born on October 9, 1921, on a farm near Hampton. She graduated from the Hampton High School in 1939. Isabel worked as a receptionist at the hospital in Marshalltown, at Damon's Department Store in Mason City and also helped her parents on the family farm.

On November 25, 1949, she was married to Harold Stromer at the Evangelical and Reformed Church in Latimer. They farmed north of Klemme all of their married lives. Due to ill health she moved to the Concord Care Center in July of 2000. She enjoyed her family, gardening and cooking.

She was a member of the Peace Reformed Church and Women's Missionary Society. She was also a Cub Scout and 4-H leader.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann Hanson (Dr. Clement) of Denver, Colorado and their children, Benjamin and Anne; her son, Dean Stromer (Debbie) of Klemme and their three children, Dan and his fiancée, Mindy Jenniges, Jessica and William and his wife, Mandy; two sisters-in-law, Lucille Dohrmann of Hampton and Ruby Stromer of Garner; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Roger J. Omvig, 54, of Kanawha, died on Friday, February 17, 2006, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services for Roger Omvig were held on Tuesday, February 21, at the Kanawha Lutheran Church with Janelle Siffring AiM officiating. Burial was in the Amsterdam Township Cemetery near Kanawha. The Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel, Kanawha, was in charge of the arrangements.

Roger John Omvig was born on March 11, 1951, to John and Phyllis (Norby) Omvig. He was educated in the Kanawha school system, graduating from the Kanawha High School in 1969.

On November 8, 1969, Roger married Diane Walk at the Kanawha Lutheran Church. This union was blessed with two children, Daphne and Michael. Roger and his family made their home on an acreage near Kanawha until recently moving into town.

Roger worked for Winnebago Industries for six years, farmed in the Kanawha area for ten years, was employed at the Kanawha Elevator for 15 years and was building compressors at Stellar Industries for the last five years.

Roger was an avid pool shooter and enjoyed hunting deer and pheasants. He and Diane attended races at the Hancock County Speedway whenever possible. Roger liked to do carpentry work. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, telling jokes and working on brainteasers. He was a member of the Kanawha Lutheran Church.

Survivors include his wife, Diane; daughter, Daphne Pogge and her husband, Jay of Corwith; son, Michael and his wife, Bobbie of Eagle Grove; six grandchildren, Ashley, Lindsey and Zachary Pogge and Devon, Colin and Chelsie Omvig; three sisters, Mary Jo Bell and her husband, Larry of Marion, Ohio, Marlys Johnson and her husband, Marvin of Kanawha and Sharon Grimm and her husband, Robert of Kanawha; brother, Dean Omvig and his wife, Mary Ann of Valencia, California; along with aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members and friends.

Bert J. Sankey, 77, of Britt, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2006, at the Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, February 22, at the Britt Christian Reformed Church. The Rev. Joel DeBoer officiated. Music was provided by pianist, Peg Eisenman who accompanied vocalist, Diana Sankey. Bill Eckels and Louis Smidt ushered.

Honorary casket bearers were Robert Sankey, William K. Sankey, Jacob Sankey, Joshua and Diana Sankey, Jenna and Scott Gaskill. Casket bearers were Todd Gayken, Curt Smidt, Ervin Nelson, Jerry Peterson, Darin Peterson and Dave Skilling. Burial was in the Evergreem Cemetery, Britt. Flag presentation was by the Britt Honor Guard. The Ewing Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Bert Junior Sankey, the son of Bert and Clara (Warmbier) Sankey, was born on August 14, 1928, in rural Kossuth County. He attended country schools and graduated from the Algona High School. After graduation, Bert went to Coe College where he lettered in football.

In July of 1948, Bert enlisted in the Navy Air Corps and was stationed in Memphis, Tennessee. On December 28, 1948, he married Violet Hassebrock at the Kamrar Presbyterian Church. The couple was transferred to Alameda, California until 1951 when Bert finished his hitch with the Navy. They lived in Algona, Humboldt and Renwick while Bert worked at many implement dealerships. The couple moved to Britt in 1961, where he continued working at the implement dealership.

In the mid-1960s, Bert worked in Titonka with his brother-in-law at Schmidt Plumbing where he learned the trade. He opened Sankey Plumbing and Heating in the late 1960s in Britt, later selling it to Chuck Conway. Bert opened Sankey Oil in Britt in 1971, which he owned and operated until his retirement.

Bert took care of a lot of people throughout his life. Not only the customers he served but also his children, grandchildren, his wife whom he loved very much and his beloved dog, Daisy. He was a member of the Masons and Am Vets.

Bert is survived by his wife, Violet; two sons, Michael Sankey and his wife, Karen of Algona and William Sankey and his wife, Vicky of Forest City; five grandchildren, Robert Sankey, Joshua Sankey and his wife, Diana, Jenna (Sankey) Gaskill and her husband, Scott, William K. Sankey and Jacob Sankey; and his sister, Lavon Lindhorst and her husband, Ralph of Algona.

Vicki L. Weiss, 51, of Kanawha, died on Saturday, February 18, 2006, at the Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 23, at the Kanawha Lutheran Church. Janelle Siffring AiM officiated. Music was provided by organist, Twila Schroeder and the CWL High School Chorus. Robert Kraft and Arnold Lodin ushered.

Casket bearers were Allen Hanson, Vernon Olson, Bradley Olson, Tom Francis, Terry Rand and Matthew Curry. Burial was in the Amsterdam Township Cemetery. The Ewing Funeral Home, Kanawha, was in charge of the arrangements.

Vicki, the daughter of Elmer and Berdell (Larson) Olson, was born on January 7, 1955, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. She attended school in Oklee, Minnesota before moving with her family to Forest City in 1965, where she continued her education.

Vicki married Tim Weiss on August 25, 1972, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. The couple made their home in Britt. Vicki was employed by Winnebago Industries as a seamstress.

The couple moved to North Carolina for a time and then moved back to the Kanawha area. She was employed by Customcraft, before starting her own business this past year as a seamstress and upholster.

Vicki enjoyed many hobbies but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was loved by all who knew her.

Vicki is survived by her husband, Tim of Kanawha; six daughters, April (Jared) Peterson of Britt, Andrea Weiss of Kanawha, Beth (Matthew) Curry of Mason City, Merry, Ellie and Marti Weiss all of Kanawha; special niece, Melanie (Matt) Weeks of Mason City; ten grandchildren, Samantha, Jade, Dakota, Ethan, Cheyenne, Devon, Trevor, Dallas, Shane and Tate.

Survivors also include her mother, Berdell Olson of Kanawha; three sisters, Loree (Allan) Hanson of Wauban, Minnesota, Karen (Tom) Francis of Jordan, Minnesota, Nola (Terry) Rand of Kanawha; two brothers, Vernon (Cheryl) Olson of Andover, Minnesota and Bradley (Wende) Olson of East Bethel, Minnesota; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Grover E. Daugard, 81, of Britt, died on Monday, February 20, 2006, at the Hospice of North Iowa in Mason City.

Funeral services were held on Friday, February 24, at the St. John's Lutheran Church, Corwith. The Rev. Kay Wold officiated. Music was provided by organist, Helen Burrington. Ushers were Richard Hankom and Robert Shipman.

Casket bearers were Neil Daugard, Michael Piccolo, Dean Nielsen, Charles Earles, Wayne Schlichting and Dennis Zuehl. Burial was in the Corwith Cemetery, with military graveside services by the Britt and Corwith Honor Guards. The Ewing Funeral Home of Britt was in charge of the arrangements.

Grover was born on August 31, 1924, the son of Henry and Myrtle Daugard at Atlantic. He attended country schools and graduated from the Atlantic High School in 1942. He attended Iowa State College in Ames until enlisting in the Army Air Corps. After training he was commissioned as a bombardier on B-17 aircraft and was discharged in 1945.

Grover moved to LuVerne and started farming in 1946. On May 23, 1947, he was married to Delores G. Radil at Fort Dodge. They continued farming in the LuVerne area until moving to a farm near Britt in 1956. They moved to a home in Britt in 1979.

Grover is survived by his wife, Delores; daughter, Sandra Piccolo and husband, Charles of Sun Lake, Arizona; son, Roger of Britt; grandsons, Neil Daugard and wife, Stephanie of Britt and Michael Piccolo of Long Beach, California; granddaughter, Ginger Nielsen and husband, Dean of Britt; and numerous cousins and friends.

Darlene Baack, a life long resident of Klemme, Iowa, died on Monday, February 20, 2006, at the Mercy Hospital North-Iowa, Mason City. She was 81.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 23, at the Immanuel Reformed United Church of Christ, Klemme. The Rev. Donna Buckman officiated. Interment was in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. The Andrews Funeral Home of Klemme was in charge of the arrangements.

Opal "Darlene" Wilkinson, the daughter of Eugene Walding and Kittie Laura (Holland) Wilkinson, was born on September 12, 1924, at Mason City. Darlene attended Mason City schools.

She was united in marriage to Paul William Baack on May 28, 1946, at Troy, Missouri. Following their marriage, the couple farmed east of Klemme and raised their two children, Lora and Larry.

Darlene was a life long home maker and partner on the farm. She worked for many years in the health care profession both at the Park Hospital in Mason City and in the food service department at the Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake.

Her first and foremost love in life was spending time with her family and her husband's family. She was very close to her granddaughters. Darlene enjoyed flowers and liked to work word search puzzles. She was an excellent cook and made excellent homemade breads and other baked items. She enjoyed bus excursions to various casinos around the region. Those who knew Darlene will remember her pleasant smile, the twinkle in her eye, her gentle personality, and the warm love she had for others.

Survivors include daughter, Lora and husband, Ronald Carpenter of Mason City and her son, Larry Baack, Klemme; her two sisters, Maxine Ziemann and Aileen Griffith, both of Mason City; her granddaughters, Amy and husband, Jeffrey Morris and their children, Ronnie, Jorden, and Hannah Morris all of Virginia Beach, Virginia and Angela Carpenter of Mason City; also many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Etta Mae Conroy, 87, of Garner, died on Wednesday, February 22, 2006, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 25, at 10:30 a.m., at the Garner Evangelical Free Church with the Rev. Arlyn Abrams officiating. Music was provided by pianist, Brenda Haag who accompanied soloist, Floyd Jefson and congregational hymns. Ushers were Ray Neswold and Lawrence Miller.

Casket bearers were Tim Grove, John Howe, John Farquhar, Don Weiland, Floyd Jefson and Ken Quintus. Burial was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Etta Mae Conroy, the daughter of Abe and Louise (Zirbel) Van Hoosen was born on July 31, 1918, on a farm north of Ventura. She graduated from the Fertile High School in 1936. She received her teaching certificate from Waldorf College in Forest City and then began teaching at a country school.

On June 16, 1939, she was married to Charles Leonard "Jim" Conroy at her parent's farm home north of Ventura. They made their home in Garner where they raised their family. Etta Mae enjoyed her church activities, especially Bible study groups and being a mentor to others.

She was a member of the Garner Evangelical Free Church.

Etta Mae is survived by three sons, Dick (Judy) Conroy of Elysian, Minnesota, Bob (Joan) Conroy of Steamboat Springs, Colorado and Charlie (Michele) Conroy of Steamboat Springs; a daughter, Ann (Ron) Elliott of Bloomington, Minnesota; five grandchildren, Jeff Conroy, Debra Conroy, Rhonda (Jim) Van Bergen, Dave (Jessi) Elliott and Blayne Conroy; two great-grandchildren, John Van Bergen and Madilyn Elliott; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Albert E. Sleper, rural Titonka, died on Friday, February 24, 2006, at the Hancock Memorial Hospital, Britt. He was 90.

Funeral services were held at the Ramsey Reformed Church, Titonka, on Monday, February 27. The Rev. Dennis Redeker officiated. Music was provided by organist, Donna Dreeseman and the Ramsey Reformed Church Choir.

Casket bearers were Mr. Sleper's grandchildren and their spouses, Dan Sleper, Adam and Heidi Sleper, Josh Sleper, Callie Sleper, Abby Ostercamp, Brandy Peterson, Nathan Nedved, Bradley Nedved, Kim and Joe Hurtado, Lindsey and Dave Nichol, Jesse Sleper, Zach Ostercamp, Brooke and Ryan Hinders, Brett Peterson and Aaron Nedved. Burial was in the Ramsey Reformed Church Cemetery. The Oakcrest Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Albert Erwin "Bo" Sleper was born on January 25, 1916, near Titonka to John A. and Maggie (Heitland) Sleper. He received his education at Titonka. After his schooling, Bo helped his parents on the farm.

He was married to Jennie M. Rippentrop on March 31, 1943 at the Ramsey Reformed Church near Titonka. The couple started farming at Buffalo Center and then farmed near Lakota for 20 years. They moved to a farm northwest of Titonka in 1968 and farmed there until 1980, when they retired and moved into Titonka. During his farming career and after retiring, he also sold Pioneer Seed.

Bo was an active member of the Ramsey Reformed Church. He served on the Consistory for many years and belonged to the Gideon's International. While living near Lakota, Bo served on the Lakota School Board. He enjoyed golf and socializing and playing games with friends and family. His greatest enjoyment was being with his family and watching his grandchildren participating in sports.

Survivors include his children, Dr. David Sleper and wife, Elaine of Columbia, Missouri, Sherman Sleper and wife, Dawn of Omaha, Nebraska, Rhonda Ostercamp and husband, Mike of Britt, Jane Peterson of Crystal Lake and Alberta (Bertie) Nedved and husband, Dave of Garner.

Also surviving are 15 grandchildren, Dan Sleper, Kim Hurtado and husband, Joe, Adam Sleper and wife, Heidi, Lindsey Nickel and husband, Dave, Josh Sleper, Jesse Sleper, Callie Sleper, Zack Ostercamp, Abby Ostercamp, Brooke Hinders and husband, Ryan, Brandy Peterson, Brett Peterson, Nathan Nedved, Aaron Nedved and Bradley Nedved; and six great-grandchildren.

Rose M. Formanek, 96, of Garner, died on Saturday, February 25, 2006, at the Concord Care Center, Garner.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 27, at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan with Fr. Michael Schueller officiating. Tim Tusha was the lector. Music was provided by organist, Mary Kopacek who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Don Schleusner and Tom Formanek.

Casket bearers were Randy, Steve, Rick, Larry, Greg and Nathan Formanek. Burial was in the St. John's Catholic Cemetery, Duncan. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Rose Marie Formanek, the daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Hejlik) Schoun was born on September 11, 1909, on a farm south of Duncan. She attended the rural schools of Garfield Township.

On November 26, 1929, she was married to Frank C. Formanek at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan. They lived on a farm north of Duncan until 1972 when they moved into Garner. Rose worked at the Garner A & W, Garner Locker and in the lunch room at IMT in Garner. She enjoyed her family, gardening, raising flowers and Czech baking. She loved the color pink. A favorite pastime was going to garage sales with her sister, Elsie.

She was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner and past member of the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Duncan. She belonged to the Rosary Society and the Catholic Workman FCSLA Branch W51.

Rose is survived by her son, Leo (Eddie Lee) Formanek of Clear Lake; her daughter-in-law, Mary Lou (George) Tusha of Garner; grandchildren, Randy (Chris) Formanek of Garner, Steve Formanek of Garner, Rick (Renae) Formanek of Clear Lake, Gerald Formanek of Phoenix, Arizona, Dean (Tami) Formanek of Phoenix, Arizona, Larry (Carolyn) Formanek of Knoxville, Greg (Julie) Formanek of Farmersburg and Jane (Marvin) Ricke of Garner; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are sisters, Elsie Formanek of Garner and Maxine (Les) Swenson of Mason City; sisters-in-law, Agnes Formanek of Garner and Vivian Formanek of Britt; and many nieces and nephews.

Sandie J. Butz, 62, of Garner, died on Saturday, February 25, 2006, at New Braunfels, Texas.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, March 4, at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Garner with Fr. Michael Schueller officiating. Altar server was Marvin Engstler. Music was provided by organist, Carolyn Kumsher who accompanied the church choir. Ushers were Robert Kral and Lawrence Engstler.

Interment was in the Concord Township Cemetery, Garner. The Cataldo Funeral Home of Garner was in charge of the arrangements.

Sandie Joan Butz, the daughter of George and Gertrude (Mulhall) Mandeville, was born on February 6, 1944, at Spencer, Massachusetts. She graduated from the David Proudy High School in Spencer, in 1961 and the 0llis Beauty Academy at Worchester, Massachusetts in 1962.

On November 16, 1963, she was married to Jack Butz at East Brookfield, Massachusetts. They lived in Garner where they raised their family. Sandie was employed at North Iowa Printing Company in Garner. She enjoyed her family, traveling, golfing and gambling.

Alice C. Abbas, 91, of Kanawha, died on Sunday, February 26, 2006, at the USA Healthcare Center in Clarion.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, March 1, at the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church. The Rev. Steve Schulz officiated. Music was provided by organist, Marilyn DeKruyff who accompanied soloist, Paula Abbas and congregational hymns.

Honorary casket bearers were Tracy Lillard, Leah McMillan, Austin Abbas, Katie Brown, Kelsey Abbas, Drake Triplett, Jacob Abbas, Brianna Abbas and Cora Abbas. Casket bearers were Sean Abbas, Dan Abbas, Benjamin Abbas, Mark Thompson, Dennis Abbas and John C. Thompson. Burial was in the Amsterdam Township Cemetery, Kanawha. The Ewing Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Alice (Thompson) Abbas was born on October 13, 1914, at the Thompson family farm, 4 miles south of Kanawha. She was the daughter of Abe M. Thompson and Cora (Nelson) Thompson. After graduation from the Kanawha High School she attended Iowa State Teachers College, Cedar Falls and taught in the Norway Township Rural Schools for three years. She then attended the Lutheran Deaconess Hospital (now Lutheran Hospital) Chicago, Illinois and graduated in 1938 with a RN degree.

She married George D. Abbas on March 15, 1939. Alice and George were members of the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church. After her marriage, she returned to teaching and taught for a total of 26 years. She graduated from the Drake University College of Education in Des Moines in 1970.

Alice was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. She enjoyed and cherished her faith, family, and friends. Life long learning, reading, poetry, word puzzles, painting, and woodcarving were among her many interests.

She is survived by three sons, David of Kanawha, Robert of Cedar Falls and Thomas (Rebecca) of Waterloo; two brothers and two sisters, Thomas Thompson (Elsa) of Ames, Abe Thompson of Las Vegas, Nevada, Jan Nichelson of Scottsdale, Arizona and Ruth Popp (Steve) of Scottsdale, Arizona; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.