Marian L. Heaford, 1912-2008

January 16, 2008

Marian L. Heaford, 96, formerly of Ventura Heights, died on Monday, January 7, 2008, at the Rockwell Community Nursing Home, where she had been a resident since November.

Funeral services with the Rev. Ronald Bolinger presiding, were held on Thursday, January 10, at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockwell. Interment was in the Rockwell Cemetery. Those wishing to extend memorials may direct them to St. Peter Lutheran Church in Marian’s name. The Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Rockwell was in charge of the arrangements.

Marian Lucille Heaford, the daughter of Leo E, and Marie C. (Anderson) Meyer, was born on January 2, 1912 in Elkader. She was baptized in 1918. Years later in 1946, Marian was confirmed at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockwell.

Marian attended and graduated from the Rockwell Community High School and chose to further her education in the nursing program at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, completing her certification in 1933. Marian continued her studies in Chicago, earning a degree as a nurse anesthetist. Upon her return to north Iowa, she pioneered the anesthetist department at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa in Mason City, where she continued her dedicated service to the community in her beloved department for over 40 years. Marian retired from Mercy in 1974.

On January 14, 1944 in Mason City, Marian was united in marriage to Charles John Heaford. The couple became the proud parents of two daughters and two sons.

Some of Marian’s favorite leisure activities and hobbies included crocheting, knitting, solving word puzzles, playing cards, especially 500 and English Rummy, fishing or watching her loved ones fish, bird-watching, her companionship with Mike’s pet dogs, Lily and Tabby, preparing for the holidays and flower gardening. She thoroughly loved cooking large home-cooked meals and entertaining her family and friends at the cottage in Ventura Heights. Her family recalls her “best-ever” fresh-baked chocolate chip/oatmeal cookies!

She was a devoted member of the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockwell.

Marian was a kind and giving woman who always offered complete comfort and hospitality when opening her door to visitors. Described as a “food pusher,” Marian seemed to always have food prepared and ready to serve to her guests!

Marian will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by her four children, Carol Myers of Rockwell, twins, Ruth (Gregg) Skluzacek of Council Bluffs and Bob (Angie) Heaford of Mason City and Mike (Sue) Heaford of Northwood; her sister, Bernice Kirk of Rockwell; her sister-in-law, Johanna Heaford of Rockwell; and her close family friends, Don and Cindy Koepsel of Ventura Heights. She will also be cherished by her five grandchildren, Roger (Carla) Myers, Terri (Mehdi) Mazaheri, Bill (Helena) Myers, Mark (Beth) Skluzacek and Joe Skluzacek; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Preceding Marian in death was her husband, Charles Heaford in January of 1979; her parents, Leo and Marie Meyer; her grandson, James Myers; and her two brothers, Glenn and Kenneth Meyer.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Gerald "Jerry" R. Hanna, 1944-2008

January 16, 2008

Gerald "Jerry" R. Hanna, 63, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, formerly Forest City, died on Thursday, January 10, 2008, at the St. John's Medical Center, Tulsa, Oklahoma.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, January 16, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, with Reverend Wayne Hagen officiating. Visitation was held from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake. Visitation will also be held one hour before the services at the church on Wednesday. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of the arrangements.

Jerry was born on August 22, 1944 in Forest City, to Harold and Vivian (Dahlby) Hanna. He attended school in Buffalo Center and served in the United States Navy.

He owned and operated Hanna Construction in Forest City until moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1997. In Tulsa, he was employed as a Housing Inspector for the Creek Indian Nation.

He enjoyed celebrations with family and friends, time near the lake, country music, horses, home projects, bird watching, and fishing. His family wrote, Jerry's incredible work ethic, playful disposition, and generosity were an inspiration to his family. He lived his life with sincerity and bravery.

Jerry was married to Judith Berkland the mother of Jennifer, Jeffery, Jason and Joni. She passed away in 1977. He was married to Margo Osborn (Heywood) on March 3, 1978 in Ventura. He became step-father to C.J., Julie, and Jill.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Margo (Heywood) Hanna; children, Joni Miller and husband, Richard of Forest City, Jeff Hanna and friend, Brenda Katz of Clear Lake, Jill Kramer and husband, Mike of Garner, Julie Bradshaw and husband, Jason of Clear Lake and C.J. Osborn and wife, Pam of Newton; 13 grandchildren; one sister, Janeane Flugum of Orange, Texas; three brothers, Steve Hanna and wife, Betty of Crystal Lake, Vance Hanna of Harrison, Arkansas and Keith Hanna and wife, Kendra of Northfield, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his son and daughter, Jason and Jennifer; first wife, Judith; parents, Harold and Vivian; step-father, Art Cepeda; and grand-daughter, Savannah Bradshaw.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Mary H. Behr, 1913-2008

January 16, 2008 

Mary H. Behr, 95, of Rockwell, died on Saturday, January 12, 2008, at the Muse Norris Hospice in-patient unit, Mason City.

A funeral Mass was held on Tuesday, January 15, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rockwell, with Rev. James W. Dubert officiating. Burial was in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Rockwell. The Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, was in charge of the arrangements.

Mary H. Donnelly, was born on January 10, 1913 at Dougherty, a daughter of Edward and Margaret (Murphy) Donnelly. She was a 1931 graduate of the St. Patrick’s High School, Dougherty.

She was united in marriage to LeRoy “Scoop” Behr on March 4, 1935 at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dougherty. To this union seven children were born. Mary and LeRoy farmed and raised their family in the Mason City, Swaledale and Rockwell areas.

Mary was a faithful and devoted wife and mother with an unconditional love for her family and faith. She was especially proud of her Irish heritage, Irish Catholic faith and her Irish roots in the Dougherty area. Mary enjoyed visiting with her many friends. She will be remembered for her quick wit, sense of humor, and unfailing sense of devotion to her family.

She was the oldest member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Sacred Heart Guild at church.

Mary is survived by her children, Dorothy DeVary of Rockwell, Rilla (Pete) Arnold of Mason City, Lee (Deb) Behr of Rockwell, Ron (Bev) Behr of Rockwell, Paul C. Behr and friend, Suzanne McCarty of Denver, Colorado and Dennis (Jane) Behr of Rockwell; daughter-in-law, Sue Behr of Mason City; 34 grandchildren; 68 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Therese (Chuck) Gagnon of Mason City.

Her parents; husband, LeRoy “Scoop” Behr; son, Charles E. “Chuck” Behr; granddaughter, Lindsay Behr; son in-law, Jim DeVary; and brothers and sisters, Rita Ploung, Leo Donnelly, Raymond Donnelly, Joe Donnelly, Vince Donnelly, Jane Frances Donnelly, Dorothy (Sister Mary Margaret, P.B.V.M.); and Eleanor Donnelly preceded her in death.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Ruth E. Hillis, 1909-2008

January 16, 2008 

Ruth E. Hillis, 98, formerly of Rockwell and Sheffield, died on Saturday morning, January 12, 2008, at the Good Shepherd Health Center.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 15, at the Grace United Methodist Church, Mason City with Rev. Steve Hansen and Rev. Keith Scott presiding. Interment was in the Rockwell Cemetery. The Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Mason City, was in charge of the arrangements.

Ruth Elizabeth Lumas, was born in Beatrice, Nebraska on March 10, 1909, the daughter of Martin Lumas and Anna Laura (Smith) Wickwire. She was the only daughter of six children and relocated with her family to a farm near Cartersville in 1915, where she also attended rural schools. In 1929, Ruth moved to Mason City.

On May 9, 1933 in Allison, Ruth was united in marriage to Roy John Hillis. The couple lived in the Rockwell and Sheffield areas throughout their adult lives. Following Roy’s death in January of 1984, Ruth moved to Mason City.

For numerous years, Ruth was employed as a waitress and was always known to be a hard-worker. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker, who remained in close contact with her entire family and their interests. Ruth treasured each new adventure that she could share with her loved ones!

Some of Ruth’s leisure activities and interests included playing cards, reading, piecing jigsaw puzzles, cooking and baking. She was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church in Mason City, the Senior Citizen’s and R.S.V.P.

Ruth will be fondly cherished by her three children, Dorothy Kollman of Mason City, Anna (Steve) Anderson-Jicka of Nora Springs and John (Lorraine) Hillis of Grand Island, Nebraska; her daughter-in-law, Alice Hillis of Duncombe; and her two brothers, Lee “Babe” (Carrie) Wickwire and Gordon (June) Wickwire, all of Rockwell. She is also survived by her 13 grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 14 step-great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Preceding Ruth in death was her husband, Roy J. Hillis; her son, Glenn Hillis; her two grandsons, Tom and Dwane Hesley; two great-grandchildren; three sons-in-law; and three brothers.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Armond Schnieder, 1925-2008

January 23, 2008

Armond Schnieder, 83, died on Sunday, January 13, 2008, at his home in Stone Lake, Wisconsin.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, January 19, at the Appleyard’s Funeral Home in Rice Lake, Wisconsin.

Armond, the son of George and Maude (Ayers) Schneider, was born at Garner on January 13, 1925. He graduated from the Garner High School in 1944 and entered the Navy.

Armond was a charter member of the Garner VFW Post. After service to his country, he worked for the New Holland Farm Equipment Company for 45 years.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret, and her children, along with the children from his first wife, Joan. He is also survived by two brothers, Elrede and Jack; and sisters, Theo, Pat and Genevive.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Ruby M. Lackore, 1916-2008

January 23, 2008

Ruby M. Lackore, 91, of Garner, died on Monday, January 14, 2008, at the Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, January 18, at the United Methodist Church in Garner, with Rev. Dr. Stephen McDuff officiating. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City. The Cataldo Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Ruby Marie Lackore, the daughter of Gustav and Lydia (Hesley) Schramm, was born on October 11, 1916, on a farm northwest of Garner. She graduated from the Ventura High School in 1934. Following high school, she worked on the farm with her sister and brother-in-law. Ruby studied art and professionally hand colored photographs for local portrait studios.

On April 23, 1973, she was married to Clark P. Lackore in Mason City. Ruby enjoyed gardening, playing the piano and reading.

She was a 4-H Leader, Ventura Garden Club member, a volunteer for Duncan Heights and Opportunity Village and was a nominee from Hancock County to the Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame in 1991. She served as a Hancock County Soil Conservation District Commissioner, was the Hancock County Farm Bureau Women’s Chairperson for many years and was active in her political party.

She is survived by five great nieces and their families, Lesley Lackore of Ames, Joleen (Kevin) Smith and their two daughters, Abbie and Claire of Belmond, Cheryl (Mark) Garrett and her son, Brenton Lackore of Clear Lake, Rachelle (Rick) Klassen and their son, Jacob of Palm Desert, California and Raleene (Doug) Munsen of Phoenix, Arizona; and a niece, Doreen (Richard) Johnson of Garner.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Clark; two sisters, Floy Lackore and Evelyn Schramm; and a nephew, Doran (Betty) Lackore.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Grace Pauline Jones, 1922-2008

January 23, 2008

Grace Pauline Jones, 85, of Thornton, died on Wednesday, January 16, 2008, at her home.

A funeral mass was held on Monday, January 21, at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Clear Lake, with Rev. John R. Tilp officiating. Interment was in the Clear Lake Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Hospice of North Iowa. The Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of the arrangements.

Grace was born on October 23, 1922 in New Richland, Minnesota, the daughter of Peter and Justine (Weber) Weydert. She graduated from the Presentation Academy, Whittemore in 1939. She worked in Fort Dodge as a cashier for the movie theater.

Grace married Joseph F. Jones on August 24, 1943 at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Clear Lake. They farmed in the Emmetsburg area before moving to Clear Lake in 1944. They lived several places, including Arizona, Mason City, Rockwell, Fertile and back to Clear Lake in 1962. In 1979 they moved to Thornton.

Grace enjoyed spending their winters in Apache Junction, Arizona. She worked at the Mirror Reporter and the Globe Gazette in advertising. She was very involved in church. Grace sang with the Keynotes, loved to play bingo and dance. She enjoyed arts and crafts, growing flowers and walking. She was very active in the Democratic Party. She taught CCD, sang in the choir and was a lecturer for church. She was a member of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and was active in the ACCD – women’s Catholic group.

Grace is survived by her husband, Joseph Jones of Thornton; two daughters, Judy Veselis and her husband, Robert of Thornton and Nikki Cook and her husband, Dennis of Thornton; three grandchildren, Chad Cook and his wife, Lisa, Lori Cook-Thomas and her husband, Prentice and Scot Cook and his wife, Jill; six great-grandchildren, Steven Cook, Suzanne Cook, Jayson Cook, Collin Cook, Joshua Henley and Sophia Cook; three sisters, Pauline Quinn of Evansville, Minnesota, Barbara Haliday and her husband, Bill of Osage and Jacqueline Quinn and her husband, Francis of Ventura; and one brother, Simon Weydert and his wife, Phyllis of Rockwell.

Grace was preceded in death by her parents; two daughters, Peggy Ann and Suzanne Jones; and a brother, Marvin Weydert.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Opal Mae Obrecht, 1926-2008

January 30, 2008

Opal Mae "Sis" Obrecht, 81, of Thornton, died of heart disease on Tuesday, January 22, 2008, at the Kavanaugh Hospice House in Des Moines.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, January 26, at the Richland Lutheran Church in Thornton. Burial was in the Pleasant View Cemetery, Thornton.

Opal (Nielsen) Obrecht, was born on February 25, 1926. She was the fifth of 11 children born to Chris and Pearl Nielsen. She was baptized and confirmed into the Lutheran Faith at the St. Paul’s American Lutheran Church. She graduated from the Thornton Consolidated Schools in 1942. In 1943, she married Thayne Obrecht. To this union seven children were born. The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Through the years Opal was active in the Richland Lutheran Church, Ladies Aid, Sunday School, vacation bible school, Iowa Holstein Association, Garden Cub, Franklin County Democratic Party, North Iowa Twins Club and Wigwam Campers. She was a 4-H Leader and volunteered at the Opportunity Village in Clear Lake.

Opal and her late husband, Thayne operated a successful Holstein dairy farm and enjoyed showing their cattle. She enjoyed attending the sporting events of her children and grandchildren. Opal also loved to attend draft horse shows and she worked for Mid-Iowa Auction. Opal was an avid cook and baker and was “world famous” for her sticky cinnamon rolls that were enjoyed by all.

Her home was always open to all who wanted to stay, with a multitude of friends and relatives staying over the years. While wintering in Alamo, Texas she loved singing, dancing, going to garage sales and playing cards and shuffleboard. She scheduled and organized jam sessions, with musicians from across the Valley attending each week to sing and play various instruments.

She moved to Courtyard Estates, an assisted living facility in Bondurant, in November 2007.

Survivors include her children, Audrene Hansen of Des Moines, Maureen (Jerry) Modderman of Altoona, Jacqualine (Gary) Dirks of Onalaska, Wisconsin, Martha Statlander of Thornton, Mary (Paul) Schlichting of Thornton, Colleen Obrecht of Des Moines and Jeffrey (Becky) Obrecht of Bondurant; grandchildren, Allen (Angie) and Sonja Hansen, Todd Modderman, Tammy (Brian) Johnson, Jason (LeAnn), Christopher (Jamie) and Joshua (Heather) Dirks, Torey (Gwen) Statlander, Melissa (Bob) Decker, Travis (Sarah) Statlander, Brian (Cathy), Bruce (Marla) Schlichting, Buffy (Dustin) Tschampel, Ashlee (Adam) Wilson, Mark (Lisa) Obrecht and Shawna (Kirk) Beaubien; great-grandchildren, Ryan and Natalie Hansen, Cameron and Abbie Johnson, Jacob, Cody and Brennan Dirks, Madeline and Owen Statlander, Ellie, Casey, Noah and Thayne Decker, Tanya and Eli, Taylor and Teryn Schlichting, Brett and Brandon Bloemendaal, Tyler Teegan and Sydney Tschampel, and Jase Beaubien.

Other survivors include her sisters, Ruby Easley of Mason City, Mavis (Rod) Jensen of Cedar Falls, Joy Bulow of St. Ansgar and Marlene Sheriff of Rockwell; brothers, Franklin (Anne) of Thornton and Leo (Betty) of Sedgewickville, Missouri; sister-in-laws, Betty Nielsen of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, Lorraine Webber of St. Joseph, Michigan and Vivian (Joe) Hanawalt of Meservey; brother-in-law, Roger Obrecht of Mason City; and many loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Chris and Pearl Nielsen; brothers, Gene, Ivan, Dale and Donald; and in 1993 by her husband, Thayne.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Mary Ellen Groh, 1925-2008

January 30, 2008

Mary Ellen Groh, of Thornton, died on Thursday, January 24, 2008, at the Muse Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City, at the age of 82.

Mary Ellen believed in helping others and generously donated her body to the University of Iowa Medical School. A funeral Mass was celebrated at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rockwell on Monday, January 28. The Retz-Grarup Funeral Home, Thornton, was in charge of the arrangements.

Mary Ellen, the daughter of John and Freda (Wagner) Plonsky, was born on May 22, 1925 at home, in Mason City. She graduated from the St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Mason City.

She met her true love, Victor Groh, at the skating rink in the old Armory in Mason City and they celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary on August 6, 2007.

In 1950, she and Victor purchased the Thornton Enterprise newspaper. At a later date they also purchased The Rockwell Tribune and at that time both papers were renamed The Southern County News. Vic and Mary Ellen ran the Southern County News until it was sold in 1979 at which time they continued in commercial printing as The Printing Office until 1997.

Mary Ellen devoted her life to her husband, eight children, 12 foster children and her grandchildren. Her door and kitchen were always open, welcoming her grandchildren and neighborhood children to enjoy chocolate milk and pudding cups.

Mary Ellen will be sadly missed by her husband, Victor of Thornton; daughters, Kristie (Mel) Pope of Middleton, Wisconsin, Polly (Bob) Nordman of Savage, Minnesota and Amy Kuhlers of Waterloo; sons, Barry (Kim) Groh of Thornton and Steve (Nancy) Solum of Franklinton, North Carolina; her 14 grandchildren, Christopher Green, Tom (Angelica) Green, Brian Pope, Brad (Maria) Pope, Michelle (Fred) Bartman, Derek (Susan) Nordman, Cory (Bethany) Nordman, Nicholas Nordman, Angela (Kyle) Fogt, Scott, Ashley and Randy Groh, Kody and Kasey Kuhlers; and her great-grandchildren, Grant and Reagan Pope, Ethan, Evan and Elizabeth Grace Nordman.

She is also survived by a sister, Margaret Schmolke and brothers, John and Robert Plonsky; sisters-in-law, Pauline Bull, Dorothy Larken, Delores Miller, Rosie Redman and Lorraine King; brother-in-law, Donald Groh; and many nieces and nephews.

Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her children, Vickie, Randy and Lisa; her parents, Freda (Plonsky) Ong and John Plonsky; and sister, Imogene Berg.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Janet Lea Adams, 1937-2008

January 30, 2008

Janet Lea Adams, 71, of Marshalltown, Iowa, died on Friday, January 25, 2008, at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, January 30, at the First Presbyterian Church in Conrad. Visitation was from 4-8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, at the Pursel-Davis Funeral Home, Marshalltown. Burial will be in the Conrad Cemetery, Conrad. Memorial Contributions are suggested to the First Presbyterian Church in Conrad or the American Red Cross Iowa Rivers Chapter.

Janet was born on September 3, 1937 in Grundy Center, Iowa to Robert and Lillian (Huisman) Hillygus. She married Deane Adams on September 15, 1956 in Conrad and assisted him on the family farm near Liscomb, where they lived until moving to Marshalltown in 1999. Together they were blessed with four children, Lori, Doug, Lana and Dan.

Janet will be greatly missed by her husband of 51 years, Deane Adams; her children, Lori Adams of Ames, Lana (Galen) Adams-Herr of Cedar Falls and Dan (Karen) Adams of Oskaloosa; a daughter-in-law, Brenda Adams of Garner; her grandchildren, Jessica, Lindsey, Jordan, Megan, Rachel and Maggie; a sister, Carol (George) Brady of Lake Elsinore, California; and a brother, Jim (Diana) Hillygus of Conrad; international exchange students, Andres Ibanez Berkholtz and Nikita Lamanov.

She joins her son, Doug Adams and her brother, Gary Hillygus in eternal life.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Charles L. Claude, 1917-2008

January 30, 2008

Charles L. Claude, 90, of Corwith, died on Saturday, January 26, 2008, at the Westview Care Center in Britt.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 29, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Corwith, with Pastor Kay Wold officiating. Burial was in the Corwith Cemetery. The Ewing Dugger Funeral Chapel, Britt, was in charge of the arrangements.

Charles LeRoy Claude, was born on November 4, 1917, to Rose (Draeger) and Henry Claude. His father, Henry was killed tragically when Charlie was three years old. He attended country school, but because he was needed to help with the farm and work many other jobs to help earn money to support the family, he only was able to finish the 8th grade.

In his lifetime, he worked for many people, too numerous to mention. He worked for several farmers and mechanics. He earned enough money to buy his fist convertible car with a rumble seat. He would talk so often about his encounters with falling asleep at the wheel and waking in the ditch. Also about his experience with getting hit by lightning and surviving.

He married Roseland Adreon, on March 30, 1941. A simple ceremony with Roseland’s sister, Lurlia and her husband, Ray Fisher standing at their sides. In this union, three children were born, Charlotte, Phyllis and Terry.

Charlie enlisted in the United States Army Air Force in 1942 and served his country as a pilot of the “Flying Fortress” B-17G Bomber plane. It was at this time, that he received his college education with degrees. He flew 20 missions over Germany and other countries in Europe. Many times he saw his buddies fall to the enemy, but his bravery and strong will brought him home.

We all have heard his many stories of his missions and the places he has been and seen. We will all cherish each and every memory he shared. We never got tired of hearing them over and over again. His life was filled with so many different experiences that he loved to share.

When returning to the United States and Corwith, Charlie worked for the City of Corwith from 1946-1968. At that time, he purchased a plumbing business, which became “Claude’s Plumbing & Heating.” Charlie employed his son, Terry, with the business for nearly 18 years. Charlie and Rosie operated the business until his retirement in 1996. Through these years, he also served several terms of Mayor for the City of Corwith, totaling nearly 20 years combined.

On January 30, 1999 his wife, Rosie died as a result from open-heart surgery. He lost his life’s partner, but with the help of family and his daughter, Charlotte, he overcame another battle. He loved doing odd jobs, along with his yard work, woodworking and visiting with friends and neighbors who passed by. His daughter, Charlotte continued to live with him in the home he built himself until his health began to fail. His years with fighting the many episodes with pneumonia, was finally taking its toll.

He entered the Westview Care Center in Britt, following a serious case of pneumonia, which required him to have a feeding tube inserted in the fall of 2007. Shortly thereafter, Charlotte also became a resident of the Care Center, sharing a room with her Dad. The really enjoyed being together making all kinds of new friends and sharing their stories and experiences.

On January 22, Charlie fought the battle of his life against pneumonia, but lost his short fight on January 26. Charlie will always be remembered as a “Hero,” a “Great Dad,” a “Great Grandfather,” a “Great Brother,” and a “Great Uncle.” He always had time to listen and guide his family the best way he knew how.

He left this world, leaving behind his three children, Charlotte, Phyllis (Marvin) Bosworth and Terry (Tammy) Claude; three grandchildren, Jason (Kaylin) Bosworth, Andrea (Andy) Bernhard and Sybil (Kent) Johnson; eight great-grandchildren, Kalib, Kourtney, Kealey, Jaycee, Tyler, Kallon, Jaydin and Calista; sister-in-law, Rena; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Rose (Draeger, Claude) Henschen; father, Henry; step-father, Julius; wife, Rosie; three brothers, Fred and wife, Blanche, Albert and Walter; two sisters-in-law, Erma Garman and Lurlia Fisher; four brothers-in-law, Glen Adreon, Leon and wife, Maxine, Phillip and wife, Margaret Adreon, Ray Fisher and Larry Freiberg; two step-sisters, Velma and Lloyd McCluskey and Violetta and Amos Hughes; two nieces, Shirley Knorr and Rita White; and a nephew, Ronald Adreon.

We are blessed to have shared the time with him and will hold his memories in our hearts.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Robert LeRoy Mitchell, 1923-2008

January 30, 2008

Robert LeRoy Mitchell, died on Monday, January 28, 2008, in Britt.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 31, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Corwith. Pastor Kay Wold will officiate at the service. Interment will be in the Corwith Cemetery in Corwith, with military honors provided by the Elmer Wilson American Legion Post #229.

Robert LeRoy Mitchell, was born on October 31, 1923, on the family farm in Prairie Township, Hancock County. He was the third child of Lennie Osborn and Jennie Elizabeth Merriam Mitchell. He graduated from the Corwith High School in 1941, vice president of his class. Bob served in the U.S. Army during World War II, assigned to the 25th Mechanized Calvary Rem, receiving the Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Ribbon, Victory Medal, Army Occupation Medal (Japan) and Good Conduct Medal. Upon discharge, he returned to Corwith to help on the family farm. Bob also worked a short time for the railroad, and later, intermittently worked construction jobs and assisted local farmers.

On November 23, 1952, Bob was joined in marriage to Gladys Marie Yeoman, daughter of George and Olive Palmer Yeoman. They made their home south of Corwith on their farm. Bob and Gladys celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary last fall. They have four children, Michael L., Jean M., David A. and Julie L.

Bob was a life member of the American Legion, having served as Post Commander and Chaplain. He served over 15 years on the Hancock County Conservation Board.

Fishing was Bob’s passion. His truck and often his pockets, typically held a variety of lures and hooks, in the event a fishing opportunity arose or a fellow fisherman was in need. His quest for the “lucky lure” was ongoing. Bob also enjoyed reading, had an interest in wildlife conservation and, in earlier years, was an avid winter trapper.

He is survived by his wife, Gladys of Corwith; and his children, Mike and Sherry Mitchell of Swisher, Mark and Jean Hoyt of Flower Mound, Texas, David Mitchell of Corwith and Jim and Julie Richter of Corwith; 9 grandchildren, Travis and Laura Mitchell Sheely of Amana, Len Mitchell of Swisher, Jason and Lisa McDowell Hoyt of Lewisville, Texas, Joshua and Tara Hoyt active duty Navy of New York, New York, Dave and Nichole Yokimishyn, Troy and Jaime Reick and Matthew and Lany Mitchell, all of Wesley, Lynn Richter of Eagle Grove and Brian Richter of Corwith; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and his two sisters, Alberta Maland and Ellen Mitchell.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Ronald G. Woiwod, 1924-2008

February 6, 2008

Ronald G. Woiwod, 84, of Garner, died on Wednesday, January 30, 2008, at his home.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, at the St. John’s Lutheran Church east of Garner, with the Rev. Carl Hedberg officiating. Burial was in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City. The Cataldo Funeral Home in Garner was in charge of the arrangements.

Ronald George Woiwod, the son of Otto and Lulu (Henschen) Woiwod, was born on January 2, 1924, on a farm east of Garner. He attended the St. John’s Parochial School northeast of Garner and graduated from the Ventura High School in 1941. After high school, he worked as an auto mechanic in the north Iowa area.

On September 18, 1954, he married Mildred Harrison in Alabama. They later divorced. In 1963, his father, Otto, passed away. Ron then moved to the family farm east of Garner and took over the farming operation. Following his retirement from farming he moved into Garner.

In June of 2001, he married Lorraine Rooks in Clear Lake. Ron enjoyed playing cards and visiting with people. He was a member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church, where he was confirmed and served as an usher.

Ron is survived by his brother, Laurice “Pete” Woiwod and his wife, Billie of Clear Lake; sister-in-law, Elaine Woiwod of Garner; step-daughters, Connie Pals and her husband, Wayne of Thornton and Valera Hovelson of Clear Lake; three nieces, Laurel McMahon and her husband, Jim of Garner, Kris Juenger and her husband, Tom of Garner and Beverly Kelck and her husband, Lynn of West Union; and a nephew, Richard Woiwod and his wife, Sherry of Fertile.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lorraine; and a brother, Ernest Woiwod.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008

Wilma Scholl, 1915-2008

February 6, 2008

Wilma E. Kruckenberg Scholl, 92, of Rockwell, died on Thursday, January 31, 2008, at the Rockwell Community Nursing Home.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockwell, with Rev. Ronald J Bolinger presiding. Interment was in the Hillside Cemetery, Sheffield. The Retz-Grarup Funeral Home, Sheffield was in charge of the arrangements.

Wilma E. Kruckenberg Scholl, was born on a farm near Hampton, in Franklin County on October 2, 1915, to Elwood and Ethel (Morehouse) Walker. She graduated from the Sheffield High School in 1934. On March 5, 1935, Wilma was united in marriage with Arnold Kruckenberg. She was baptized and confirmed on May 19, 1935, at the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sheffield.

Wilma and Arnold raised two children, Larry Kruckenberg of Rockwell and Karen Stadtlander Ulrich of Armstrong. They farmed east of Sheffield and north of Dougherty until 1970 when they retired and built a home in Rockwell. Arnold passed away in April 1971. On June 6, 1974 Wilma married Victor (Bud) Scholl of Rockwell.

Always willing to help, Wilma taught Sunday School at Sheffield for two years and after moving to Rockwell she served as President of the ELCW and Rebecca and Martha Circles. She also served as President of the Hostess Committee and served on the Altar Guild. She loved to work in her garden and with her flowers, as well as spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband, Bud Scholl of Rockwell; son, Larry (Deanna) Kruckenberg of Rockwell; daughter, Karen (Bob) Ulrich of Armstrong; four grandchildren, Kurt (Dina) Kruckenberg of Omaha, Nebraska, Kandee Bartholomew of Mason City, Denise (Steve) Jensen of Ringsted and Dawn (Dean) Looft of Armstrong; three step-grandchildren, Janiece, Jodie and Scott; 18 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; sister, Kathryn Foell; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Wilma was preceded in death by her first husband, Arnold; her parents; five sisters, Clare Alden, Frances Brown, Cleone Miller, Florence Mahn and Prudence Faye in infancy.
©The Garner Leader & Signal 2008