001Funeral services for Helen Albert, age 84, formerly of Bedford, who died Tuesday, June 12, 2012 at Living Center East in Cedar Rapids were held Saturday, June 16, 2012 at 2:00 PM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation were one hour prior to services. Interment were held at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be given in Helen’s name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
Helen Elizabeth Albert ws born april 15, 1938 in Waterloo, Iowa the daughter of Merrill J. albert and Helen (Dresher) Albert. Her mother Helen graduated as Valedictorian from the Bedford High School with the Class of 1912. She then attended college in Sadkatoon, Canada and the University of Iowa where she graduated in 1917 with her Bachelor’s Degree. She was a Superintendent of Schools in Iowa for six years, becoming Principal at the Duncombe High School. She passed away June 1, 1952. She married Merrill J. albert of Brandon, Iowa while he was attending Officer’s Training School during Word War I. After his wife Helen died in June of 1952 he married Cecilia Newquist. During his working years he was Superintendent of Schools in Duncombe, iowa. He passed away July 6, 1981.
Helen’s family made their home in Cedar Falls while her mother was High School Principal and her father Superintendent of Schools in Duncombe. While Helen was a small child, during the immunization process, she suffered complications. She lived her life from the age of 21 in a nursing facility where she was lovingly cared for.
Left to cherish Helen’s memory is her cousin Beverly Albert of Vinton, Iowa.
Preceding Helen in death are her parents Merrill and Helen Albert

002Funeral services for Dean A. Davidson, age 87, of Maryville, Missouri, formerly of Bedford, who died Tuesday, June 12, 2012 at his home were held Wednesday, June 20, 2012 at 10:30 AM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation wiere Tuesday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 and the Iowa Army National Guard were held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials may be directed to the Bedford American Legion or the Fairview Cemetery Association. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
Dean Atwood Davidson was born January 11, 1925, in Bedford, Iowa the son of Lewis James Davidson and Iva Mae (Crawford) Davidson, his twin brother was Dale. He grew up on a farm south of Bedford, living there most of his life. He attended school in Bedford, graduating with the Class of 1942. After graduation, he answered the call to serve his country entering the United States Army in 1944, serving in Italy during World War II. He returned home and started farming and was recalled to serve in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1951. Upon his discharge he came back home, purchased a farm 6 miles south and 1 mile west off of the old St. Joe Road. In September of 1952, he was united in marriage to Melba June Hargrove and the couple adopted two children Lori Ann and Michael. June and the kids were killed in a traffic accident south of Maryville on July 8, 1966. In November of 1967, he was united in marriage to LaVeta McClurg (Brown). To this loving union a son Kelly was born. LaVeta had three children of her own, Connie, Richard and Wayne. The family continued to live on the farm until 1990 when Dean retired and moved to Maryville. In 1992, Dean went to work at Northwest Missouri State University, working there for ten years. LaVeta passed away on December 9, 2011.
Dean was a long-time member Berea Church of Christ; he was a 4-H Leader; served on the ASC Township Committee; and had served on the Bedford Community High School Board of Education. He was also a lifetime member of the Bedford American Legion. Having owned an airplane and flying for many years, Dean was a member of the Bedford Flying Club and the Men's Forum in Maryville. Dean was a man of strong faith. He was passionate about farming and enjoyed the lifestyle it provided his family. Being a 'true family man' Dean enjoyed vacationing with his family every year. And although he was often soft spoken, his wisdom was passed on to his family.
Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful father, grandfather and friend are his son Kelly Davidson and wife Beth of Indianola; two step-sons, Richard Brown and wife Deb of Clarinda; and Wayne Brown and wife Michele of Cedar Rapids; two grandchildren, Erica and Connor Davidson; along with four step-grandchildren, Chris Brown, Joshua Diggs, Rachael Diggs and Matthew Diggs; eight step-great-grandchildren and a community of friends.
Preceding Dean in death are his parents; his first wife June in 1966; his second wife LaVeta in 2011; his son, Michael Davidson; his daughter, Lori Ann Davidson; a step-daughter, Connie Diggs; three brothers, Dwight, Dale (his twin) and Wendell; and two sisters, Mildred Cobb and Bernice Welch.
Dean will be missed by his entire family and many friends. We will hold the memories of his gentle spirit, wisdom and counsel as a wonderful gift of encouragement. He will live on in our hearts forever

003Funeral services for Charles Drennen, 80, of Yorktown, were held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 15, 2012 at the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, with Ken Card officiating.
Drennen entered into peace on Saturday, June 9, 2012 at Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda.
Visitation with the family were held 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, June 14 at the funeral home. Burial was in the Polsley Cemetery, rural Yorktown. Memorials may be directed to the Southwest Iowa Humane Society or to the Nishna Productions Valley Group Home. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda.
Charles Guston Drennen was born Oct. 3, 1931, in Taylor County, Iowa to Harvey D. Drennen and Agnes Marie (Laub) Drennen. Charles and his family lived several places around Blockton and Sharpsburg, Iowa and Nodaway County, Mo. He attended Burlington Junction High School. Charles' mother died when he was 14 and he and his siblings were a very close family. Charles was united in marriage June 4, 1948, in Elmo, Mo. to Joyce Merriett. They were blessed with three daughters, Patricia, Peggy and Pamela.
Early in his working career Charles worked for Roberts Dairy and Iowa Power and Light Company. He then owned and operated Drennen's Garage and Used Cars in Yorktown. He enjoyed being a mechanic and kept the cars, tractors and trucks of the community running. Charles was a very caring person, always ready to help someone. In later years, he drove hot-shot trips for Thummel Trucking. Charles served the community of Yorktown faithfully for many years as Mayor, council member and Volunteer Fire Department member.
Charles enjoyed riding horses, and rode in many parades he also enjoyed attending the 4-H horse shows of his grandchildren. He loved kids and was adopted grandfather to the kids of Yorktown. He enjoyed taking care of his children and grandchildren.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Roy Drennen and Donald Drennen; sister, Betty Pfeifer.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Joyce Drennen of Yorktown; daughters, Pat Huseman and husband Keith of Coin, Peg Barbee and husband Tom of Lincoln, Pam Lindholm and husband Russell of San Antonio; grandchildren, Jenny Huseman, Brian Huseman, Jill Mitchell, Lauren Barbee, Madison Barbee, Kristin Drennen, Abby Meadows; great-grandchildren, Reyna Huseman, Jordan Flores; brothers, Sam Drennen of Council Bluffs, Bobbie Drennen of Lenox; sister, Helen Ward and husband Paul of Maryville, Mo.; nieces; nephews and many friends

004Graveside services for Opal McFarland Johnson, 97 of Clarinda and formerly of the Guss area, will be 11 a.m. Monday at Hawleyville Cemetery with Rev. Loren Daly officiating. There is open visitation at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel Sunday 1-5 and Monday until service time. Memorials are suggested to donor's choice.

Opal Fern McFarland Johnson was born April 10, 1915 in Taylor County near Guss, Iowa to James Ridnour and Ellazan King Ridnour. She graduated Kendrick Country School. Opal was united in marriage to Guy McFarland Dec 23, 1936. They had four children. The couple farmed near Guss and Opal was active in farm chores. She also loved to crochet and tend to her numerous houseplants. Opal was a founder of the H.E.O. Club ( Help Each Other club of neighborly farmwives ). Guy passed away and Opal married Warner Johnson in 1986. In recent years Opal lived in Clarinda until she passed away June 8, 2012 at Westridge Quality Care & Rehab at the age of 97.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Guy McFarland and Warner Johnson; son Guy Arnold McFarland; brother Leland Dale Ridnour and sister Mildred Stalcup and husband Carroll; son-in-law Francis Gardner; two grandchildren Terry Allen Gardner and Larry Gardner.
Opal is survived by three daughters: Wyline Gardner of Des Moines, IA, Alma King of Shenandoah, IA, and Judy Teeters and husband Bob of Siam, IA; six grandchildren Joline Butters and husband Mike of Phoenix, AZ, Daniel Gardner of Des Moines, IA, Giel King and wife Annabelle of Shenandoah, IA, Kelly King of Shenandoah, IA, Tina Strub and husband Gary of Kansas City, KS, and Cindy Crouch and husband Scott of Ankeny, IA; nine great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren

005Geraldine A. Tobin was born July 2, 1922 in Elmo, Mo., to George and Bertha (Vulgamott) Bloomfield. She passed away June 4, 2012 at the Golden Living Center in Plattsmouth, Neb., at the age of 89 years, 11 months and 2 days.
In 1949 she married Richard Tobin in Clarinda, Iowa. To this union was born a daughter, Codonna. Geraldine worked as a CMA for 15 years at Iowa State School in Glenwood, Iowa. Later she was the Activities Assistant at the Plattsmouth Manor for 13 years.
Geraldine was a member of the VFW Post 2543 in Plattsmouth and Church of the Holy Spirit. She enjoyed cooking, baking, playing cards, music, bingo, visiting and working. She will be remembered as a loving, dedicated, gentle yet feisty individual who enjoyed spending time with her family especially her grandchildren.
Geraldine is survived by her daughter, Codonna Vannurden of Plattsmouth, Neb.; grandchildren, Scott Vannurden of Papillion, Neb., Erin Vannurden of Kansas City, Mo.; sisters: Leona Fulk of Clarinda, Iowa, Virginia "Lavon" Shrimpton of Omaha, Neb., and many other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Richard Tobin; brothers, Victor Bloomfield, Carl Bloomfield and Jack Bloomfield.
Funeral services were held Saturday, June 9, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at Harvey Funeral Home Chapel in Plattsmouth, Neb., with Pastor Jerry Quandt officiating. Inurnment will be at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Marysville, Mo., at a later date.
Visitation was held on Friday, June 8, 2012 with family greeting friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Brian P. Harvey Funeral Home, Plattsmouth, Neb., in charge of arrangements

006Memorial services for Jack Baker, age 73, of Wyoming, Michigan, formerly of Clarinda, Iowa, who entered into peace April 6, 2012 at his residence in Wyoming, Michigan, were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 26, 2012 at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation with the family were held following the service at the funeral home. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.
Jackie Allen Baker was born March 5, 1939, in Iowa City, Iowa, the son of Bertha Baker. Jackie (Jack) passed away on April 6, 2012 in Wyoming; Mich. Jack attended the Clarinda Public Schools. He enjoyed playing basketball, softball, checkers, dominos, marbles, croquet and riding his bicycle and scooter. Jack attended the Second Baptist Church. He enjoyed reciting poems and acting in plays during Christmas and Easter programs, and finding colored eggs during Easter egg hunts. Jack’s hero was his blind uncle, Merrill Griggs.
Jack married Cynthia Shirley, who was a nurse. They had two daughters, Amber and Andrea. Jack was a very private person. He was an avid reader of history, western and mystery novels. He was a great basketball and football fan. The University of Iowa Hawkeye’s were his favorite team. He enjoyed watching Mad Men, Borgias, Deadwood and Boardwalk Empire on television and the computer. Jack liked playing canasta, poker and dominos.
Jack was employed at the Lisle Corporation, the Mental Health Institute, and the Metz Baking Company in Clarinda, and was a caregiver to elderly people in Michigan.
Jack enjoyed cooking his favorite dishes of baked beans, ham loaf, scalloped potatoes, round steak, marble squares and lemon meringue pie.
Jack is survived by his daughter, Amber Baker Sar and Andrea Baker Caverty; two grandsons, Westin Sar and Grayson Caverty; his sister, Sally Joan Baker; two aunts, Mary Baker and Charlene Baker; cousins, Vernon Washington, Vunita Iske, Darlene Baker, Barbara baker, Patrick Baker, Janice Clarke, Lora Lee Turner; friends, Brian and Staci Redd, Beverly Fountain; many cousins and many friends.
Preceding Jack in death were his former wife, Cynthia Shirley Baker; mother, Bertha Baker; grandmother, Symblean Baker; aunt Darlene Washington; uncles, LeRoy, Vernon, and Gerald Baker and Ebert Washington.
Jack will be missed by many. May God grant comfort to those who mourn his passing

007Deborah Ann Bowers was born in Landstuhl, Germany March 30, 1970. As a child she traveled and lived in Germany, Colorado and Canada. She visited many states and Europe.

She died January 7, 2012 in the family home after a short battle with cancer.

She left behind two children, Tiffany Molitor and Cody Dalton; three grandchildren in Colorado Springs, Colo; her parents, Duane and Sheryl Bowers in San Antonio, Texas; three sisters Diane Nietzel and Stacy Bowers in San Antonio, Texas, and Susan Learned in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
She is preceded in death by her brother Steven Bowers; grandparents Avis and Harold Bowers of Bedford, and Durward and Louise Spies of Wiota, Iowa.

Graveside memorial services will be 10 a.m. Monday, April 16, 2012 at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa with Rev. Dan Wiebesiek officiating. Following the services friends and family are invited to join them for lunch and visit with the family. Memorials may be given to a fund to be established. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Bedford, is in charge of arrangements. www.EFC.

008Leann Clark, age 51, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Clarinda, Iowa, died Monday, May 21, 2012 at Methodist Diagnostic Hospital, Houston, Texas. Leann is formerly of Clarinda, Iowa. She is the daughter of Verlin and Janice (Welch) Clark of Clarinda. A memorial service were held in Houston, Friday, May 25.
Visitation with the family were held 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, May 29 at the funeral home. Visitation with the family were also be held one hour prior to the Eastern Star service.
Eastern Star services were held 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 30, 2012 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Highland Chapter 523, Siam, Iowa officiating. Graveside service and burial were in the Hawleyville Cemetery, Hawleyville, Iowa immediately following the Eastern Star service. Memorials may be directed to Leann Clark Memorial Fund. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.
Leann Jean Clark was born October 6, 1960, at Clarinda, Iowa, the daughter of Verlin Clark and Janice (Welch) Clark. Leann grew up in the Clarinda area, attending Clarinda schools and graduated in 1979 from Clarinda High School. She continued her education at Iowa Western Community College in Clarinda receiving her Associate's degree.
Leann's first employment was as a secretary at the Clarinda Chamber of Commerce. She continued her employment as a legal secretary in various states including Iowa, Wisconsin, Nebraska, and Kansas. Her most recent employment was legal secretary for fifteen years with Looper, Reed, & McGraw Law Firm of Houston, Texas. Leann enjoyed her work and was a valued dependable employee of the law firm.
Leann had a great love for country western dancing, the outdoors, horses and riding. She and Royal were part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo from 1998-2012 riding twenty consecutive nights per year; riding for Jay Cannon Rodeo productions, Servi Championship Rodeo and Sammy Catalena Rodeo Company . Leann also enjoyed going to the Houston Astro's games with her friends and co-workers. Her family was very important to Leann and she was a special aunt to her many nieces and nephews. Living in other states never prevented her from coming home for all the special events including Christmas, graduations, and other family gatherings.
Preceding Leann in death were her father, Verlin Clark and her grandparents, Carl and Myrtle Clark and Darrell and Joye Welch.
Left to cherish her memory are her mother, Janice Clark of Clarinda, Iowa; brother, Troy Clark and wife Sharyn of Yorktown, Iowa; sister, Diane Barr and husband John of Clarinda, Iowa; sister, Jayne Holste and husband Curt of Atlantic, Iowa; brother, Craig Clark and wife Kendra of Clarinda; nieces and nephews, J.W. Barr, Jodi Barr, Beth Nelson, Richard Clark, Coddy Clark, Samantha Hansen, Stephanie Holste, Cale Clark, Lexi Clark; great nieces and nephews, Haylee, Kaiden, Kayedance and Madi; numerous aunts, uncles, other relatives and many friends.
Leann will be greatly missed by her loving family and friends; her memory and love will live on in their hearts. May God grant comfort and peace to those who mourn her passing

Funeral services for Melvin Howard, age 81, of Creston, formerly of Lenox, who died Wednesday, July 11, 2012 at Creston Nursing & Rehab Center will be held Saturday, July 14, 2012 at 11:00 AM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox. Visitation will be Friday at the funeral home from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held at North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be directed to the Lenox Little League Complex. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Melvin Leroy Howard was born December 13, 1930, in Taylor County, Iowa the son of Jean Howard and Opal (Belding) Howard. He lived most of his life in the Lenox area, graduating from the Lenox High School with the Class of 1949. On November 27, 1950, he was united in marriage to Carol Lou Elwood at the Corning United Methodist Church in an afternoon ceremony. They were blessed to share 61 years of marriage!

Mel worked as a meat cutter for Cheese's Food Market for over 30 years. He built a family home, by himself, in his spare time. His family grew up there until they sold the home and purchased a "fixer upper" house. Carpentry and construction were his hobbies, but mostly his passion. After leaving the meat cutting business, Mel opened a restaurant business, worked as a housepainter and a handyman. During this time, Mel and Carol moved to Creston where they have lived for the past 20 years. He loved sports and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan as well as the Kansas City Chiefs.

Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend are his loving wife of 61 years, Carol Howard of Creston; two daughters, Kristeen Hoakison and husband David of Creston; Jackie Hayworth and husband Dennis of Grimes; four grandchildren, Christopher Hayworth, Kacy Hayworth, Caleb Hoakison and wife Jill, Kelsey Buck and husband Matt; a sister, Norma Warrick of North Bend, Oregon; along with many other relatives and friends.

Preceding Mel in death are his parents, Jean and Opal Howard; and two brothers and their wives, Daryl and Florence Howard and LaVaughn and Loretta Howard

Funeral services for Mary Book, age 96, of Clarinda, Iowa, formerly of Griswold, Iowa, who entered into rest Sunday, July 8, 2012 at the Eiler House, Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 13, 2012 at the United Methodist Church, Griswold, Iowa with Reverend Dwight Grosvenor officiating. There will be open visitation at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda with family visitation 10:00 – 11:00 at the United Methodist Church, Griswold prior to the service. Burial will be in the Flint Cemetery, Griswold, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the family to be given to the Iowa Library Service for the Blind. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Mary Virginia Book, a long time resident of the Griswold area, passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, July 8, 2012, at the Eiler House, Clarinda, Iowa.

Mary was born December 8, 1915 in Wright Township, Pottawatomie County, Iowa near Griswold, to Orin Cephas Pearce and Ruth Read Pearce. Mary graduated from Griswold High School in 1933. Following graduation from High School she was united in marriage to Ralph Owen Book. They were married for sixty five years. She became an adept farm wife and mother of four. Mary was also active as a 4-H leader, gardener and secretary of Waveland Township School Board.

Mary became a member of the Griswold Methodist Church in 1947. In her later life she was an active member of the quilting group of the church creating beautiful heirlooms for family and community members.

Mary will always be remembered for her talents in sewing, needlework and famous apple pies.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Book; sister, Kathleen Samson; and daughter, Virginia Phillips.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Nancy Fuhs and Sara Lu Aberle and son, James Book; Mary is also survived by fifteen grandchildren and many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren along with host of other relatives and friends

Funeral services for Stephen Cozad, age, 64, of Clarinda, Iowa, who passed away as the result of an automobile accident, Friday, July 6, 2012, rural Clarinda, Iowa, will be held 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 12, 2012, at Rit6chie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Andrew Rubenking officiating . Visitation with the family will be held 10:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. Military rites will be accorded by American Legion Sergy Post 98 during the service. Memorials may be given in his name. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our website at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Clarinda, Iowa.

Stephen Earl Cozad was born February 27, 1948 to Mildred Jane (Drabes) Cozad and Edson Bill Cozad in Clarinda, IA. He grew up on a farm near Blanchard, Iowa and kept his parents busy being a very active and creative boy. Steve attended South Page Schools and ended his schooling in Clarinda School District. At age 17, Steve, enlisted in the United States Navy. This began his 14 year military career in which he served very proudly! During this time he completed 3 world tours including the Vietnam War on the USS Enterprise, Hancock and Forrestal, also on the plank crew of the USS Eisenhower.

Shortly after enlisting Stephen met and married Ann Wilson of Clarinda in 1969 and they had 4 children, Brandon, Charles, Catherine and Kevin Cozad. During his enlistment in the US Navy, Stephen and his family were stationed many places including Italy. After completing his career the family came back to Clarinda and made a home. Stephen then went to Iowa Western Community College and graduated with his Associates Degree in Mechanical Engineering, thus starting his career at NSK and continuing on to self- employment in plumbing/electrical.

In 1986, Stephen relocated to Des Moines, IA area and became employed through the State of Iowa as a Rehabilitation Technology Specialist where he designed and fabricated adaptive equipment to meet the needs of disabled Iowans. There he met Laura Moon and was married shortly after in 1986. They had 3 children, Jesse, Brian and Chad Cozad. They continued to live in the Des Moines area until 1995. During these years Stephen was active as a scout leader and soccer coach with his sons. A favorite pastime was bicycling with his family.

He moved his family to Adel, IA and operated his canoe and bicycle rental business on the Raccoon River and bike trails from 1995 to 1998.

In 2000 he and his family moved to Creston, IA and pursued other interests.

In 2009 Stephen returned home to Clarinda, IA until his untimely departure to Heaven. Stephen had a strong faith in Christ. He had many hobbies including fixing computers, TV's, radios, anything electrical. He loved to tinker with anything that needed fixed. Stephen also loved fishing and camping, hobbies which he had passed down to his children. But Stephen most loved his family and took extreme pride in all his children and grandchildren and loved to take time to teach all of them lessons of life. He loved telling stories to his children and grandchildren about his childhood and his time spent in the US Navy.

Stephen was preceded in death by his father Bill Cozad and son Charles Christian Cozad. Left to cherish his memories are his mother, Jane Cozad of Clarinda. Sister Jean and Ed Miller of Clarinda. Sister, Vera Moore of New Market. Children: son, Brandon and Keely Cozad (US Army/ Tennessee); daughter, Catherine and Michael De Anda of Clarinda; son, Kevin and Kendra Cozad (US Air Force/ Azore Islands) and their mother Ann Wilson of Clarinda. Son, Jesse Cozad of Des Moines, IA; son, Brian Cozad of Omaha, NE and son, Chad Cozad of Creston, IA and their mother Laura Cozad of Creston, IA. Many nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and Cousins!

A Naval Hymn Verse:

And when at length her course is run,
Her work for home and country done,
Of all the souls that in her sailed
Let not one life in thee have failed;
But hear from heaven our sailor's cry,
And grant eternal life on high!
Author/date Unknown

JoAnn Long 75, of Graham, MO, passed away Friday, June 29, 2012, at the St. Francis Hospital in Maryville, with her family at her side.

JoAnn was born on March 17, 1937, in Ravenwood, MO, to Ralph Reno and Hazel Juanita (Couch) Patterson, they preceded her in death.

On July 11, 1955, JoAnn was united in marriage to Carol Golden Long, in Atchison, KS. He preceded her in death on January 6, 1995. She was also preceded by her sister Barbara Lee Puett.

JoAnn and Carol lived in St. Joseph, MO for a short time before moving to Graham, MO. She had been a resident of the area most all her life and had been a housewife and mother.

Her survivors include her 6 children, Teresa Carter, Skidmore, MO, Carolyn (Eldon) Hayes, Graham, MO, Lucinda (Ron) Capps, Skidmore, MO, Ralph (Penny) Long, Maitland, MO, Carol “Rusty” Long, Maitland, MO, and Brenda Long, Graham, MO. She was also survived by 19 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren; 1 brother, Leland (Alice) Patterson, Kansas City, MO; 3 sisters, Belva Howard, and Loretta (Cliff) Mills, both of Kansas City, MO, and Juanita (Gayle) Vessar, Maysville, MO; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services and burial will be at 10:00 AM Saturday, June 30, 2012 at the Prairie Home Cemetery, Graham, MO. No formal visitation is planned. Arrangements are by the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Missouri Lions Eye Research Center, Heartland Lions Bank, 404 Portland St. Columbia, MO, 65201

Paul Dean Ward 84, of Maryville, MO, went to his Heavenly Home on June 27, 2012, at the Golden Living Center, Maryville.

Paul was born on November 20, 1927 in Elmo, MO, to Miles Ward and Millie (Miller) Ward. He graduated from Burlington Junction Missouri High School in 1946. On November 17, 1946 he married Helen Drennen in Elmo, MO. They became the parents of 3 daughters and 1 son.

He was a farmer and also worked for Co-op. Later he worked at Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO, retiring in 1990.

Paul was a people person and loved to visit with any of his many friends. He enjoyed spending time with his family and all the grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Bob and Jack.

His is survived by his wife Helen, of Maryville; daughters, Becky (Lonnie) Kuhns, Rock Port, MO, Terri Masterson, Colorado Springs, CO, and Cindy (Jim) Stevens, Alpena, MI; son, Ed (Cathy) Ward, Kearney, MO; grandchildren, Rhonda Gayler, Jeff Kuhns, Jason Smith, Sara Smith, Adam Ward, Jared Ward, Amanda Ward, Nathan Stevens, Dustin Stevens, and Ashley Travis; great grandchildren, Kyle and Brett Gayler, Christopher Masterson, Kelli Stevens, Cody Stevens, Allie and Reed Travis, Kaitlin Ward, Justin and Jordan Kuhns; sister in law, Nancy Ward; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Ward has been cremated. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday, June 30, 2012 at the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO. Rev. Paul McKim will be the officiant. No formal visitation is planned. Inurnments will be at a later date in the Ohio Cemetery, Burlington Junction, MO.

Memorials may be directed to the Paul D. Ward memorial fund for a charity to be determined later, and may be sent to the funeral home

Kennie Christine Florea Mayfield Ellis 94, passed away on Sunday, June 24, 2012, at her home in Maryville, MO. Kennie Christine was born to Samuel Vernon and Daisy D. Killion Florea on October 23, 1917, at Gaynor, MO. She was a graduate of the Gaynor High School, and was the last living child of Sam and Daisy’s eight children.

Kennie was a former resident of Hopkins, MO where she partnered with her first husband, Dr. E.L. Mayfield in his veterinary practice. She married “Bill” on February 6, 1937, at Corning, IA, while he was studying veterinary medicine at Ames. Together they worked until he completed his degree in the spring of 1939. Settling in Hopkins, MO, they set up their veterinary practice and raised their family. “Doc” passed away in 1972 after a prolonged illness. Kennie later married Ernest O. “Mickey” Ellis on May 7, 1978, who passed away in 1983.

Kennie was a homemaker, secretary/bookkeeper, 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and a member of the First Christian Church of Hopkins. She later transferred her membership to the First Christian Church in Maryville. She was employed at Montgomery Wards from 1966 to 1980, and retired as head cashier.

Surviving are her 5 daughters: Gwen (Jerry) Coldwell, Beaver Lake, NE; Lorna (Ron) From, Maryville, MO; Joyce (Rod) Hennegin, Maryville, MO; Donna Spalding, Hopkins, MO; and Pat (Garland) O’Riley, Hopkins, MO; 3 step-sons: Fred (Carol) Ellis, San Jose, CA; Richard (Amy) Ellis, Brighton, CO; David Ellis, Cincinnati, OH; 2 step-daughters: Charlene (Jim) Sry, Cape Cod, MA; and Kate Roux, Gladstone, MO; 15 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Also surviving are sisters in law, Margaret and Irene Florea. Preceding her in death were her parents, husbands, brothers, sisters, and one grandchild, James Spalding.

Kennie was a strong, soft-spoken, sweet lady who was a joy to her whole family. She will be greatly missed.

Services will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, June 27, 2012 at the First Christian Church, Maryville, MO. The Rev. Dale Stewart will officiate. Burial will be in the Long Branch Cemetery, Gaynor, MO. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time at the church on Wednesday.

Services are under the direction of the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO

Mrs. Lois A. Bowman 105, of Maryville, MO, passed away Sunday, June 17, 2012, at the Parkdale Manor Nursing Home in Maryville.

Mrs. Bowman was born on July 3, 1906, in Cameron, MO., to Lyle C. and Mabel Wright Allen. She was a former resident of Cameron and had resided in Maryville since the 1940’s.

Mrs. Bowman received her A.B. in Education from Missouri Wesleyan University, Cameron, MO. She was a retired English Teacher, having taught in Cameron, Hopkins, and Maryville R-II School Districts. She retired in 1969.

Mrs. Bowman was a much beloved and highly respected by her students. At her 100th birthday celebration, many of her former students came to visit and others send cards, all with their own expression of respect, affection, and appreciation of what she had done for them.

Her room overlooked a parking lot and up until her final few months she could tell who was working by the cars and license numbers in the lot.

Her memberships included the First Baptist Church, and the Order of the Eastern Star, both of Maryville, MO.; and the Missouri State Teachers Association, Jefferson City, MO.

She married Richard Marion Bowman on August 15, 1932, and together they owned and operated the “71 Café”, formerly located in the 400 block on N. Main Street in Maryville. He passed away on August 19, 1993.

Surviving is a cousin, Kate Abbe, Woodside, California. Mrs. Bowman has been cremated under the direction of the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO. No memorial services are planned. A private inurnment will take place later at the Graceland Cemetery, Cameron, MO

Desta Jane Caswell 74, of Maryville, MO passed away Sunday, June 17, 2012 at the Village Care Center, Maryville.

Desta was born on December 31, 1937 in Baxter Springs, KS to Rev. Earl and Elfia Ellen (Purvis) VanSickle. They preceded her in death.

She had been a resident of Maryville most all of her life. She was a homemaker and had been a member of the Church of the Nazarene, Maryville, MO.

Left to mourn her passing are her children, Harry DeSpain, St. Joseph, MO, Mike DeSpain, St. Joseph, MO, Earl DeSpain, Maryville, MO, John DeSpain, Maryville, MO, and Jana Goodpasture, Maryville, MO. She is also survived by 2 sisters, Dorla Taylor, Maryville, MO, and Earlene Harris, St. Joseph, MO; 10 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, June 22, 2012 at the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO, the burial will be in the Miriam Cemetery, also of Maryville

Norma Jean Clark 82, of Maryville, MO passed away Thursday, June 14, 2012, at the Heartland Hospital in St. Joseph, MO, with her family at her side.

Jean was born on February 2, 1930, in Scottsbluff County, Nebraska to Chester C.B and Ruth Marie (Johnson) Piersol. She had been a resident of Maryville the past nine years.

Jean was a 1949 graduate of the Scottsbluff High School and in 1955, received her BA from Minnesota Bible College in Minneapolis, MN. She had been a self employed piano teacher all her adult life, she had taught up to 30 students at a time.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Kathleen Zlomke.

Jean was a member and attended the Countryside Christian Church, Maryville, MO, and she had taught the Women’s Bible Study at the church.

On September 9, 1952, Jean was united in marriage to Duane H. Clark at the Truman Church of Christ, Truman, MN. He survives at their home in Maryville.

She is also survived by her children, Janelle Clark, Independence, MO, Michael, and wife Carol Clark, Escondido, CA, Russ, and wife Cheryl Clark, New Market, IA, and Sue, and husband Edward Bowman, Kansas City, KS. Other survivors include grandchildren, Daniel, and wife Carol Clark, Rancho Penasquitos, CA, Timothy Clark, San Francisco, CA, Andrew Clark, Escondido, CA, Bryan, and wife Mary Clark, Essex, IA, Anna, and husband Dan Johnson, Pella, IA, Nathan Clark and fianceé Emily Heithoff, Maryville, MO, April, and husband Zankar Parekh, India, Kathryn Bowman, and Eddie Bowman, both of Kansas City, KS; 4 great grandchildren, Alex Clark, Kezia and Trajan Johnson, and Adri Parekh. She is also survived by 2 sisters, Gail, and husband Richard Eckstrom, and Eloise Johnson, both of Ventura, CA; and by several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 9:00 AM Saturday, June 23, 2012 at the Countryside Christian Church, Maryville, MO, Vic Coston will be the officiant. The burial will be in the Dallas Center Cemetery, New Market, IA.

The family will receive friends from 5-8:00 PM Friday, June 22, 2012 at the Countryside Christian Church

Dr. Roger W. Corley 77, of Maryville, MO, passed away peacefully June 9, 2012, at his home with his family at his side after a three year battle with Leiomyosarcoma.

Roger was born on December 22, 1934, in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Edward M. and Alice W. (Houston) Corley. They both preceded him in death. He was also preceded by his daughter in law, Jennifer Corley.

Roger was a graduate of Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, N.Y.; he received his Masters Degree from Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, and his PhD from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS. He was a Professor of American History at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville from 1966 to 1997.

Roger served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to 1961; and later retired as a Major with the Army National Guard, retiring in 1994 after serving 34 years.

On November 28, 1970, Roger was united in marriage to Janice Marie Erickson, in Griswold, IA, she survives of the home. He is also survived by his children, Amy Corley, Rolla, MO, Craig Corley, Santa Monica, CA, Erik, and wife Mary Corley, St. Louis, MO, Robin, and husband Jason Walker, Smithville, MO, and Patty and husband Chuck Phillips, Raymore, MO; grandchildren, Emily Rose, Patrick Henry, and William Christopher Corley, Samantha Marie, Caroline Mae and Juliana Nicole Walker, and Charles Edward, and Hope Allison Phillips; and by his siblings, Edward (Woody), and wife Barbara Corley, Santa Rosa, CA, Susan, and husband Ken Wible, Lexington, MA, and Steven Corley, Arlington, VA; and by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Roger has been cremated under the direction of the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO

Memorial services will be held at 1:00 PM, Wednesday, June 13, 2012, at the First United Methodist Church, Maryville, MO. The family will receive friends from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM Tuesday, June 12, 2012, at the funeral home

Charles Linwood Birkenholz, 98, Hopkins, Missouri, died Friday, July 13, 2012, at his home near Pickering, Missouri.

He was born near Pickering, on November 16, 1913 to Charles A. and Bessie (Lincoln) Birkenholz.

Linwood was a graduate of Gaynor High School, a veteran serving as a corporal during World War II in the United States Army, and a member of the Pickering United Methodist Church.

His loves were farming on the home place for 91 years and his family.

Linwood married Margaret Schildknecht of Rea, Missouri on December 28, 1943 in Red Bank, New Jersey.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one son Lowell Birkenholz.

Survivors include his wife Margaret Birkenholz, of the home; two sons Lawrence (Karen) Birkenholz, Independence, Missouri and Louis (Cheryl) Birkenholz, Hopkins, Missouri; grandchildren Charles (Denise) Birkenholz, Norfolk, Virginia, Mick (Robin) Birkenholz, Mount Ayr, Iowa, Kurt (Amber), Henderson, Nevada, Jesse and Leslie Birkenholz, Hopkins; and five great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held 10 AM, Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at the Pickering United Methodist Church. Burial: White Oak Cemetery, Pickering. Military services will be provided by the James Edward Gray American Legion Post 100, Maryville and the Missouri Military Honor Program.

Family and friends are invited to a time of fellowship and a luncheon at the Pickering community center beginning at 11:30 AM after the burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to his Pickering Methodist Church, the Union township Community Building or the White Oak Cemetery

Irma Lee (Dunn) Poynter, 92, a wonderful and loving wife and mother, and a longtime resident of Maryville, Missouri, died on July 9, 2012 at St Francis Hospital.

Irma Lee was born July 3, 1920, in Liberty, Missouri, to Hugh Logan and Eva Mae Dunn. She graduated from Cameron High School in 1938 and graduated from the Chillicothe Business College in 1939.

She is survived by her husband, Harold Lee Poynter, Jr. of Maryville, her eldest son, H. L. Poynter III and wife, Marty and their daughters, Beth (and husband, Sheldon Klassen), Cathy (and husband Greg Brown) and Cristen (and husband, Jeff Brenner), her middle son, Paul Richard Poynter and wife, Amabel and their daughters, Shanna (and husband, Jeff Deering) and Shelley (and husband, Mark Simoes), and her youngest son, Phillip Mark Poynter and wife, Deena and sons, Jeremy (and wife, Wendy) Jonathan (and wife, Pheonna), Adam and daughter, Charisse (and husband, Jason Craine. Collectively there are seventeen great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Her death was preceded by her parents, Hugh Logan and Eva Mae Dunn and her older brother, Donald Hugh Dunn.

During her Cameron school years, she was a member of the Cameron High School Band and Drum and Bugle Corp. She and Harold Lee Jr. were sweethearts in high school. Following graduation from Chillicothe Business College, Irma Lee was secretary to the president of the Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York located in Kansas City, Missouri and married Harold Lee Poynter Jr. on January 26, 1944 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Following her husband’s graduation from Northern Illinois College of Optometry, Irma Lee, Harold Lee Jr. and son, H.L. III, moved from Chicago, Illinois to begin an Optometric Practice and family life in Maryville, Missouri.

Irma Lee has been a member of the First Christian Church since 1948 (served as Sunday School Teacher), a Cub Scout Den Leader for all three sons, a member of the "HT" Maryville Chapter of PEO (served as president 1956), a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (forty plus years) and a member of the Missouri Optometric Association Auxiliary. Irma Lee was an avid connoisseur of genealogy and family histories, firmly believing that our ancestors come to life when we learn their stories. She assisted many others in their pursuit of family research, delighting equally in their exploration and discoveries.

Visitation will be from 6-8 pm July 12th at First Christian Church, Maryville. Funeral Services will be held at First Christian Church on Friday, July 13, 2012 at 10:30 am.

Graveside services will be at the Nodaway Memorial Gardens Cemetery, north of Maryville Missouri following the funeral service

Carol Farrens

Centralia, Missouri

Carol Farrens, 82, Centralia, Missouri, formerly of Maryville, died Thursday, July 5, 2012, at Audrain Medical Center, Mexico, Missouri.

Carol was born, January 18, 1930, in Maryville, Missouri to Charles T. and Iva Helen (McKee) Carmichael.

She married Ralph Eugene Farrens February 28, 1948, in Maryville, Mo., and was a Nurse Aid and homemaker.

Carol attended the Baptist Church.

Preceding in death were her parents, husband Ralph (2/27/09), five brothers Ed, Charles, Paul, Stanley and Earl Carmichael and one sister Helen Locke.

Surviving are sons Dennis Eugene Farrens, Wright City, MO, Roger Lyle (Glenda) Farrens, Centralia, MO, Douglas Wayne Farrens, Wellsville, MO; four grandchildren, and ten great grandchildren.

Visitation will be 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, Monday, July 09, 2012, at Price Funeral Home Chapel, Maryville followed by Graveside Funeral Services 2:00 PM at White Oak Cemetery, Pickering, Missouri

Noah Hasty Nelson, 28, Maryville, Missouri, died Thursday, July 5, 2012, at his home, Maryville, Missouri.

Noah was born, November 20, 1983, in Maryville, Missouri to Kim LaVaughn and Debi Nelson.

Noah was self employed in the construction industry.

Noah was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Maryville.

Preceding him in death were his grandfathers Charles "Pat" Hasty and Virgil Nelson.

Survivors include his children, Aniyah Marie Nelson, and Gabriel Hasty Nelson, both of Leavenworth, KS; father Kim L. (Tonya) Nelson, Maryville; mother Debi Nelson, Gravois Mills, Missouri; brother Adam Nelson, Maryville, MO; step-sisters, Ronni and Stevie Gatewood, both of St. Joseph, Missouri, Faith Gatewood and step-brother Dennis Gatewood, both of Maryville; Maternal Grandmother Dixie Hasty and Paternal Grandmother Darlene Nelson both of Maryville; two nephews Braiten Stevens and Peyton Hiatt, both of St. Joseph.

Noah's body has been cremated. Memorial services will be held 11:00 AM, Thursday, July 12, 2012 at the First United Methodist Church, Maryville

Eldon Lloyd Collins, 82, Maryville, Missouri died Tuesday, June 26, 2012, at Heartland Regional Hospital, St. Joseph, Missouri.

He was born October 26, 1929, the son of the late Marvin Ashton and Verna Merle (Treese) Collins in Pickering, Missouri.

Eldon was united in marriage to Delores Ann Moore, August 3, 1957, in St. Joseph.

A graduate of Skidmore High School, class of 1947, Eldon received a BS in Agriculture from the University of Missouri, Columbia.

Eldon was a retired farmer. He also had worked as a rural letter carrier, retiring after 28 years of service, and a realtor with United Country Twaddle Realty, Maryville, Missouri.

Serving his country from 1951-1955, Eldon was a veteran of the United States Navy.

His memberships include the James Edward Gray American Legion Post #100, Maryville; lifetime member of University of Missouri; National Association of Retired Federal Employees; and the Rural Letter Carriers Association; and attended First United Methodist Church, Maryville.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Ron and Jack Collins.

Survivors include his wife Delores of the home; three children, Kevin Lloyd (Heather) Collins, San Antonio, Texas; Kimberly Ann Carathers, Topeka, Kansas; Dr. Kyle Ashton Collins, Maryville; six grandsons, Liam, Colman, Rowan, Grant, and Quin Collins, Logan Carathers; great grandson, Eli Carathers; two brothers Howard Collins, Taft, California, Dr. David Collins, Centralia, Illinois; two sisters, Joan Walker and Alice Gard, both of Maryville, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 6-8 PM Thursday, June 28, at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville, where services will be held at 2 PM Friday. Burial will be in the Nodaway Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Maryville

Clyde Dean Beattie, 80, Barnard, Missouri, died Sunday, June 24, 2012, at Parkdale Manor Care Center, Maryville, Missouri.

Clyde was born, April 8, 1932, in Barnard, son of the late Clyde Avery and Bertha Ellen (Nelson) Beattie.

He was a graduate of Barnard High School, class of 1950. Clyde was a farmer and a retired Insurance agent with Farmers Mutual Insurance for 35 years.

He married Marcia Jean (Skeed), October 11, 1954 in Clearmont, Missouri.

He served as a Corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War.

Clyde was a member of the First Baptist Church, Maryville; the O'Howell Strader American Legion Post #102, Barnard, and Eagles Lodge, Maryville.

He was preceded in death one brother, John Thomas Beattie.

Survivors include: wife Marcia Beattie, of the home, Jayne (Roger) Vest, Maryville, Wayne (Rhonda) Beattie, Janet (Bryan) Hilsabeck, both of Barnard, Joanne (Jeff) Rinne, Independence, Kansas, 9 grandchildren, Mickey and Haleigh Vest, Laura, Lisa and Layne Beattie, Makayla and Mitchell Hilsabeck, Alexis and Trevor Rinne; 3 brothers Donald (Lee) Beattie, Nora Springs, Iowa, Marlyn (Donna) Beattie, Marshall, Missouri, Ronald (Gayle) Beattie, Graham, Missouri; sister Mary Lou Short, Edwardsville, Kansas; sister-in-law Neva Beattie Nielson, Maryville.

Visitation will be held Sunday, July 1, 6-8 PM, at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville. Funeral Services will be at 10 AM Monday at the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Barnard American Legion Cemetery, Barnard

Elizabeth A. Welch,  Parnell, Missouri

Elizabeth A. "Betty" Welch, 85, Parnell, Missouri died Saturday June 23, 2012 at her home.

Betty was born August 27, 1926 in Ravenwood, Missouri to the late John and Elizabeth (Heffern) Midyett.

A graduate of Parnell High School class of 1944, she was a homemaker.

She married Sylvester Welch, April 8, 1947, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Parnell.

Betty was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, St. Joseph's Alter Society and the Curry Sparks Richardson Waldeier American Legion Post Auxiliary, all of Parnell.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Sylvester (2008), a son Robert Sylvester, a grandson Preston Dale O'Banion, a great granddaughter Emma Simbro, one brother John "Jack" Midyett and an infant sister Kathleen.

Survivors include her children; Tom (Tammy) Welch, Mark Welch, Greg (Lisa) Welch, Kevin (Mary) Welch all of Parnell, Marilyn Welch and Kathy O'Banion, both of St. Joseph, Missouri; 25 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild; numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A parish rosary will be held at 7:00 PM Friday, June 29, 2012 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Parnell with family visitation immediately following.

Betty has bequeathed her body to medical science. A memorial funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, June 30, 2012 at St. Joseph's Church

Teresa Catherine (Lesch) Farnan, 92, Maryville, Missouri died Thursday, June 21, 2012 at Village Care Center, Maryville.

Teresa was born September 7, 1919 in Westphalia, Kansas, the daughter of  Joseph and Rosalia (Habiger) Lesch.  She was a resident of Northwest Missouri most of her life.

Teresa attended St Joseph’s Academy, Clyde, Missouri from 1926-1934.  She graduated from St. Benedict Catholic High School, Clyde, Missouri in 1936 and from Spaulding Business School, Kansas City, Missouri in 1937.

Lawrence A. Farnan and Teresa C. Lesch were married on August 4, 1937 in Clyde, Missouri. Primarily a homemaker,  Teresa was employed by the US Postal Service in Clyde approximately ten years.  She was a cook in a nursing home and at the Retreat Center in Conception, Missouri.  She also did homemaker and personal care services for senior citizens.

Teresa was a member of  St Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Community, Maryville, the Pioneer Club and Excelsior Club.  She was an avid gardener, an accomplished cook and seamstress.  She enjoyed reading, crocheting and she was a very competitive card player.

Preceding her in death were her husband: Lawrence,  on May 17, 1987; a son: Francis J “Frank”  Farnan; a daughter: Patricia E. “Pat” Redden, three grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

Survivors include her children: Lawrence A Farnan, JR, Arlington, Texas; Rose E. Merchant, Kansas City, Kansas; Sharon A. Judy, Branford, Florida and Ronald E. Farnan, Lindsey, Oklahoma;  twenty grandchildren; thirty-three great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Mrs. Farnan’s body has been cremated. 

Visitation will be from 10-11 am on Saturday, June 30, 2012 at St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church in Maryville with a Memorial Mass celebrated at 11 am.

Inurnment will be in St Columba Cemetery, Conception, Missouri at a later time

Mary Mildred Moore, 97, Maryville, Missouri, died Tuesday, June 19, 2012, at Heartland Regional Medical Center, Saint Joseph, Missouri.

Mildred was born November 3, 1914 at Unionville, Missouri to Hugh and Grace Ledford Hill.

She married Basil "Bob" Moore on June 1, 1934, in Kirksville, Missouri.

Mildred was a retired employee of the Maryville R-II School District.

Mildred was a member of the First Christian Church, Rebekah Lodge, and Rosanna Chapter of Order of the Eastern Star, all of Maryville.

Preceding Mildred in death were her parents and husband, son in law Marvin Hogan, sister Ruth Wyckoff and brother in law Marple Wyckoff.

Survivors include: daughters, Shirley (Raymond) Hanna, Maryville, Ruth Ann (Gene) Howard, Omaha, Nebraska, Grandchildren Dr Linda Moore, Greeley Colorado, Mike (Cleo) Hanna, Gretna, Nebraska,and Stephanie Hanna, Maryville; and five great grandchildren.

Visitation is open and friends may visit the funeral home at their convenience.

Funeral Services will be 1:30 PM, Thursday, June 28 , 2012, at the Price Funeral Home Chapel, Maryville with burial following in Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville, Missouri

George Andrew Walter, 89, Maryville, Missouri, died Saturday, June 16, 2012, at Heartland Regional Medical Center, Saint Joseph, Missouri.

George was born September 3, 1922, in Lisbon, North Dakota to Joseph G. and Anna Julia Bliley Walter.

A graduate of Immaculate Conception High School, Class of 1940, Conception, Missouri. George was a retired printer having worked for the Abbey Press, Conception.

He married Luella Rose (Wolfram) Walter, June 6, 1953, in St. Joseph, Missouri.

George was a veteran serving his country in the United States Army post World War II.

George was a member of the St Gregory's Catholic Church (formerly a member of St. Columba Catholic Church, Conception Junction), a volunteer for SSM Hospice, Road to Recovery (of American Cancer Society) all of Maryville.

Preceding him in death were three brothers, Bernard (Ben), Norbert, and Vincent and one sister, Beatrice Dowd.

Survivors include: wife Luella of the home; eight children, Mark (Karen Meyer) Walter, Chillicothe, Missouri, Pete (Teresa Schieber) Walter, Maryville, Paul (Linda Poff) Walter, Maryville, Joan (John) Peterson, Stanberry, Missouri, Christopher (Theresa Hayes) Walter, Kansas City, Missouri, Theresa (Dave) Stiens, Maryville, Missouri, Julia (Ray) Luke, DeSoto, Texas, Pat (Pam Allen) Walter, Maryville, Missouri and one sister Rosemary Andrews, Omaha, Nebraska; 23 Grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren; sister-in-law Mary V. Walter, Saint Joseph, and many neices and nephews.

A Family Rosary will be held 6:00 PM,Sunday June 17, at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville. Visitation will be held 5-7 PM, Monday, June 18, at St. Gregory's Catholic Church, Maryville, followed by a parish prayer service at 7:00 PM.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM, Tuesday, June 19, at St. Gregory's Catholic Church. Burial: St Mary's Cemetery, Maryville

Annette Sue Furr, 59, Maryville, Missouri died Thursday, June 14, 2012 at her home in Maryville, Missouri.

She was born, February 19, 1953 in St Joseph, Missouri, the daughter of Kenneth and Leota (Hallowell) Furr.  Annette was disabled.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by the other residents of the Association of Group Homes, who had become her family.

Visitation is anytime at Price Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri.

Funeral Services will be 10 am Monday,  June 18, 2012 at Price Funeral Home with burial to follow in the Quitman Cemetery, Quitman, Missouri

Sandra Jane White passed on quietly, June 13, 2012 in the presence of family and friends.

Sandy was born in Carbondale, Illinois on September 6, 1960.

Sandy held a Bachelor Degree and an MBA from Northwest Missouri State University. She had earned an ABD in Business from the University of Missouri. She had taught at Northwest for several years. For one year she worked in England. However, her employment during the past eight years was as the Director of United Way and as an accountant at Loch Construction Co.

If you were to characterize Sandra, you would use words like inquisitive, warm, friendly, helpful, and willing to be involved. She was a stay-at-home mom for many years taking care of the children. She loved interaction with people and was active in the Albany Regional Center for the Disabled.

Traveling brought joy to her and her children. She enjoyed seeing her children observe nature and learn from it. She was always a teacher.

She is survived by three daughters; Sarah, Claire and Grace, her parents George and Jaunita English all of Maryville; a brother Edward English, Overland Park, Kansas and her companion Todd Kennemer, El Reno, Oklahoma.

Funeral Services will be held at 2 PM, Monday, June 18, 2012 at the First Baptist Church, Maryville. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Maryville. Visitation will be from 2-4 P.M. Sunday, June 17 at the Price Funeral Home, Maryville

031Chelsie Dawn Farmer was born August 23, 1986 in Clarinda, Iowa the daughter of Gary Mack and Debra Dee (Pratt) Farmer. She passed away on Wednesday morning, July 11, 2012 at Gardenview Care Center in Shenandoah following a lengthy illness at the age of 25 years, 10 months and 18 days.

Cheslie grew up in Clarinda and graduated from Clarinda High School in 2006. Prior to her illness, Cheslie enjoyed participating in athletics and playing in the band. She was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzle books. She loved listening to country music and supporting the Clarinda A’s Baseball team. She was a very active member of Hillside Missionary Church in Clarinda.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Delbert Pratt, Mack and Jean Farmer and Tobe Durfey; her parents, Gary and Deb Farmer; her aunt, Nancy Kirsch; great uncles, Jack McCall, Kenneth Davison and Don Humphrey; cousins, Laura Wymore and Anthony Kirsch.

Survivors include her brother, Lucas Farmer and his wife Ashley of Emerson, Iowa; her grandmother, Dorothy Durfey of Clarinda, Iowa; aunts and uncles, Joe Farmer and his wife Sherrill of College Springs, Iowa, Deanna Harris and her husband Lanny of Clarinda, Iowa, Denise Pierce and her husband Chuck of Jefferson City, Missouri, Jackie Moore of Savannah, Missouri, Mike Durfey and his Jennie of Clarinda, Iowa; nieces and nephews, Emma, Auston, Madison and Abbegayle; along with many other relatives and friends

032Roy Vernon Hookham was born January 18, 1941 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of Maxine Hookham Larson. He passed away on Saturday morning, June 2, 2012 at Jennie Edmondson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa at the age of 71 years, 4 months and 15 days.
Roy grew up in the Shenandoah area. Following his school years, Roy served his country in the United States Army for 6 years. On December 30, 1972, he was united in marriage to Peggy Marie Chaney in Tarkio, Missouri.
Roy was a hard worker. He worked for Mt. Arbor Nurseries and UBC Lumber in Shenandoah. He spent 28 years at Eaton Corporation where he worked in maintenance. Roy was a gun enthusiast. He enjoyed hunting, camping, traveling, participating in his black powder club. But his true love was his family. He would take his kids to Waubonsie Park every year to hike and they would attend numerous KC Royals baseball games.
He was preceded in death by his mother; a son, Stephen Wade Hookham; a sister, Jeanitta Brownfield; and two grandchildren, Angie and Brandon Grueber.
Survivors include his wife, Peggy Hookham of Farragut, Iowa; his children, Roy Hookham, Jr. and his wife Laurie of Lincoln, Nebraska, Deanna Runyan and her friend Carl Fogle of Tarkio, Missouri, David Bartles and friend Patty Freer of Shenandoah, Iowa; Brian Bartles of Glenwood, Iowa; Jeffrey Bartles of Council Bluffs, Iowa; four brothers, Anthony Larson and his wife Marty of Colorado, Lesley Larson and his wife Karen of Blanchard, Iowa, Leonard Larson and his wife Lena of Bedford, Iowa, Darryl Larson and friend Terry Colbertson of Blanchard, Iowa; five sisters, Regina McBrien and her husband Larry of Maryville, Missouri, Wanitta Pratt of Blanchard, Iowa, Rochell Morris and her husband Jerry of Coin, Iowa, Rosalie Miller of Blanchard, Iowa, Dianna Klee and her husband Mark of Minnesota; 16 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren with one due in August; brother-in-law, Jack Chaney and Ruth Dawson of Carson, Iowa; and many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5, 2012 at Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah with Pastor Jack Langley officiating. Burial was in the Snow Hill Cemetery near Coin, Iowa. Visitation with the family present was held on Monday evening, June 4 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kirsch Funeral Chapel in Shenandoah. A memorial fund is being established. Online remembrances or condolences can be left at www.kirschfuneral.com. The Kirsch Funeral Chapel of Shenandoah is in charge of arrangements

033Floyd Orville Semmons was born May 11, 1918 in Griswold, Iowa, the son of Fred Orville and Minnie P. (Chubick) Semmons. He passed away on Thursday morning, May 31, 2012 at the Good Samaritan Society in Red Oak, Iowa at the age of 94 years and 20 days.
Shorty grew up in rural Page County and attended country school. He served his country in the United States Army. On April 17, 1936 he was united in marriage to Bonnie Dailey in Clarinda, Iowa. This union was blessed with eight children; Norma, Orville, Sue, Bill, Deloris, Elma, John and Marquitta.

Shorty worked as a mechanic for many years. He was at Duncan Motors in Clarinda and then Snyder Motors which later became Select Motors in Shenandoah. He loved to tinker with motors and helping his grandkids build things. He also enjoyed old cars and tractors.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Bonnie; his infant daughter, Marquitta; adopted son, Don Mayo; Grandsons, Curtis Semmons and Rick Orme; a brother, Harvey Semmons; and four sisters, Clara Usher, May Huffman, Elsie Semmons and Tillie Miller.

Survivors include his children, Norma Orme of Northboro, Iowa, Orville Semmons and his wife Beverly of Stanton, Iowa, Sue Stanley and her husband Jerry of Littleton, Colorado, Bill Semmons and Candy Cook of Aurora, Colorado, Deloris Petty and her husband Larry of Arvada, Colorado, Elma Semmons of Shenandoah, Iowa, John Semmons and his wife Rita of Imogene, Iowa; 17 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

034Anderson, Clark Allen, 79, passed away Sunday evening, July 15, 2012 at the Quail Run Care Center in Cameron, Missouri. Clark was born and raised in Clarinda, Iowa, and was a former City of Clarinda employee. On October 12, 1962, Clark was united in marriage to Myrna Miller at the Church of Christ in New Market, Iowa. They made their home in Clarinda. To this union was born a son, Lee Allen. Upon Clark's retirement in 1994, they moved to Shenandoah.

Survivors include his son, Lee Allen Anderson; sisters, Donna Rulon and Beth Ann Anderson; brothers, Howard and Richard Anderson; other relatives and many friends.

035Letty Elaine (Mortimore) Spargur was born on March 14, 1919 in Riverton, Iowa, the daughter of Josephine Tina Mortimore. Elaine entered into eternal peace on Thursday, July 12, 2012 at the Shenandoah Medical Center.

Elaine's early years were spent in the community of Riverton where she attended school. Elaine graduated from Riverton High School with the Class of 1936. She was the last surviving classmate. An honor that was bestowed upon Elaine was being crowned Miss Riverton.

On April 10, 1948 Elaine was united in marriage to LeRoy Spargur in Omaha, Nebraska. The couple, along with Elaine's son, Ramon made their home in Shenandoah, Iowa. Elaine worked for Leacox and Redfield Corner Drug as a clerk for a number of years, before becoming a secretary at Earl May Seed and Nursery Company. Elaine was a dedicated employee for Mr. Raymond Sawyer, Mr. Bill Overby, Mr. Bill Levere and Mr. John Kidd. She worked for the company for 38 years, before her retirement in 1985.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church where she enjoyed being a member of the choir. She was also a longtime member of the BPW and the Shenandoah Hospital Auxiliary. Some of her passions included golfing, singing, baking for others and tending to her flower beds. The most important thing in her life was her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Spending time with her family, brought her much joy.

She was proceeded in death by her mother. Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 64 years LeRoy "Spike Spargur of Shenandoah; son Ramon Henderson and wife Kymberley of Scottsdale, AZ; grandchildren Kristin Lynn Henderson of Chicago, IL, Melissa Rae McBride and husband Matt also of Chicago, IL and Christopher Paul Henderson and wife Amy of Fort Worth, TX; two great-grandchildren Matthew and Mason McBride; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Monday, July 16, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Shenandoah. Pastor Ed Powers gave the words of comfort. Justin Sons sang "Going Home" and the congregation sang "Amazing Grace". Pianist was Carolee Rees. Ushers were Darrell Jones and Gary Milstead. Caring for the flowers were Phyllis J. Funk, Phyllis Scott and JoDayle Irvin. Attending the memory register were Lucille Lawson and Sandy Apperson. Casket bearers were Chip Henderson, Tom Brodersen, John Kidd, Bob Larson, Bob Longman and Duane Rexroth. Interment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Shenandoah. Memorials are being directed to the Shenandoah First United Methodist in Elaine's name

036Donna Jean (Armstrong) Hamilton was born on June 30, 1927 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the daughter of Donald and Sara "Lois" Vera (Draper) Armstrong. Jean entered into eternal peace on Tuesday, July 2, 2012 at the Garden View Care Center.

Jean was the first of 8 children born to her parents. She grew up on a farm near Blanchard on the Missouri side of Atchison County known as Willow Place. She graduated from Westboro High School with the Class of 1945. She received her teaching certificate from Northwest Missouri State University, and later went back to school to finish her Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Special Education.

On December 26, 1948 she was united in marriage to Arthur William Hamilton in Tarkio, Missouri. The couple made their home in Elmo where Art farmed. Jean's teaching career spanned 25 years and started in the Lone Star School House. She later taught at Conception School, Filmore School District and later at the Maryville R-2 High School.

You always knew where you stood with Jean. She was blunt and to the point and had a special kind of wit to her. She had a special bond with her father, and he would often refer to her as his "June Bug". Some of her hobbies included reading, journaling, gardening, reading the Bible, listening to the radio, watching television, learning about history, and being the ambassador at Garden View Care Center to the new residents.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Darlene Manes; brother Jim Armstrong; and husband Art Hamilton. Those left to cherish her memory include her children Donna Hamilton of Shenandoah, Mary Tuggle and husband Jim of Shenandoah, Mark Hamilton and wife Barbara of Winfield, IA, Jim Hamilton of Maryville, MO and Jay Hamilton and wife Denise of Omaha, NE; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; siblings Ardene Mullison and husband Dick of Casper, WY, Walter Armstrong of Coin, IA, Shirley Jo Braymen and husband Bill of Coin, IA, Beverly Delehant and husband Virgil of Shenandoah, Linda Hrbek and husband John of Omaha, NE; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends

037Darwin Eugene Olson was born on October 27, 1947, in Red Oak, IA the son of Frederick Eugene and Betty Mae (Henderson) Olson. Darwin entered into eternal peace on Sunday, June 24, 2012 at the Nebraska Medical Center surrounded by his loving and supportive family.

Darwin was raised on a farm near Essex, Iowa and attended Coburg School through his Junior High years. He then attended Essex High School and graduated with the Class of 1965. He went on to further his education at Peru State College, where he received his Bachelors Degree in 1970. In 1981 he received his Master's Degree in Administration from Kansas State University.

On June 14, 1969 Darwin was united in marriage to his best friend, Nancy Burke in Stanton, Iowa. Following their marriage they resided in Peru, Nebraska until they finished college. They then moved to Seneca, Kansas, Onaga, Kansas, Mankato, Kansas, Wamego, Kansas and finally to Augusta, Kansas where the couple has made their home for the past 9 years.

Darwin's career in education began as a history teacher and coach at the Nemaha Valley Jr. High in Seneca, Kansas where he taught from 1970 until 1981. He then took his first Principal position for the Onaga School System in Onaga, Kansas where he served from 1981-1995. While in Onaga he also was a beloved coach at Onaga High School. He later accepted a Principal position with Mankato Elementary School where he served for 4 years. His final Principal position before retiring was with Riley Grade School where he served from 1999-2003. He had most recently been a bus driver for Butler County Transportation.

Darwin was a longtime member of the Kansas Association for Elementary Administrator's and was very active in many church, school and community activities. He enjoyed gardening, sports and helping others. Spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren brought him much joy. Darwin was a very compassionate and caring person.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Delores. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Nancy of Augusta, KS; daughters Jill Grimmett and husband Michael of Augusta, KS and Brenda DeHass and husband Mike of Andover, KS; grandchildren Gretchen and Hannah Grimmett and Derek, McKenzie and Danielle DeHass; brothers Tom Olson and wife Jennifer of Shenandoah, IA and Bob Olson and wife Susan of Essex, IA; sister Sharon Buckminster and husband Kim of Falls City, NE; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends

038Lotus Lorraine Foster, daughter of John Wilson and Mary Etta (Young) Perkins, was born September 9, 1932 on a farm near Randolph, Fremont County, Iowa. Lotus passed away unexpectedly Thursday, June 21, 2012 at her home in Shenandoah, Iowa.
Growing up in Fremont County, Lotus graduated from the eighth grade at Anderson, Iowa and from Sidney High School. Lotus worked in the office of Interstate Nurseries after graduation. In 1962 she and her adopted son, Michael Holman, moved to Shenandoah. In Shenandoah she worked at Hy-Vee and then for Joseph Emge, DDS, as a dental assistant. In 1966, she started working at Henry Field's in the Customer Service Dept. A short time later she became Assistant Manager of the Shenandoah Garden Center and later became manager of that store. Lotus was then promoted to general manager of Henry Field's Garden Center Operations, which consisted of the Shenandoah store, one in Omaha, Nebraska and one in La Vista, Nebraska.
On December 19, 1973, Lotus married Raymond Jack Foster, owner and president of Henry Field's. She then retired in 1977 and devoted her time to gardening. When they moved from their home on Elm Street to South Moreland, she had two acres to enjoy, including an orchard, vegetable garden and many flower gardens. Roses were one of her favorites, and for a few years she tested roses for Jackson & Perkins. They also built a greenhouse where she enjoyed growing orchids and many other exotic plants. In 1995 when they built their new home on Bluegrass Lane she no longer had a greenhouse and had a much smaller lot, but still planted many flowers.
Lotus and Jack enjoyed traveling, fishing and flying. She also enjoyed the company of her cats. Jack had been a pilot for many years and Lotus started flying after she retired and got her private pilot's license. They made many trips to northern Saskatchewan, Canada to fish for Walleye, Lake Trout and Northerns. They also kept a car and boat at Branson, Missouri and would frequently fly down to fish for Trout on Lake Taneycomo. They also enjoyed trips to Europe, especially to visit Jack's relatives in England. They spent time in Hawaii almost every year after 1973.
She was a member of Pythian Sisters Temple #37 in Sidney, Iowa. Lotus was also a lifetime member of the Fremont County Historical Society and served on the Board of Directors. She was responsible for doing the research on the Fremont County country schools and getting signs placed at their locations. She was also on the Ferrel House committee for the Ferrel House Museum in Randolph, Iowa, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and St. Mary's Catholic Church in Shenandoah.
Preceding Lotus in death were her husband, Raymond Jack Foster; parents, John and Mary Perkins; her son, Michael Holman; her brother Jim Perkins; and a sister Mary Lou Rasmussen and brother-in-law, Frank Rasmussen. She is survived by her cousin, Richard Perkins and wife Pat and special friends, Todd and Donna Greenwalt and family; other relatives and many friends

Russell William Elliott, 83 years, of Fort Madison, Iowa, died at 4:45 pm Sunday July 15, 2012 at the Fort Madison Community Hospital, Fort Madison, Iowa. He was born April 17, 1929 at Clarinda, Iowa, the son of Ralph Vern and Della Mae (Maley) Elliott. On August 30, 1953, he married Nola Leona Huffer at Shenandoah, Iowa. They have been married for 58 years.

He first worked as a projectionist in Clarinda, Iowa. After college in 1961, he moved to Fort Madison, where he taught Driver Education for 6 years. Russell’s career in education led him all around the state of Iowa where he worked as principal in many schools, including at Carson, Burlington, and Hamburg. In Sheldon, Iowa he was director of the Northwest Iowa Workshop for the handicapped. He returned to Fort Madison in 1979, where he developed an education program at the Iowa State Penitentiary. He also worked as a substitute teacher and at Freuhauf Corporation for a few years. He then spent an additional 16 years doing maintenance work for a private family.

Russell spent 28 years in the Iowa Army National Guard and attended two officers schools. He was a member of Joy Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife: Nola Elliott, of Fort Madison, Iowa; one son: Russell W. (wife Mary Kay) Elliott II, of Burlington, Iowa; two daughters, Sheryl D. Elliott, of Aurora, Illinois and Brenda L. (husband Mark) Maine, of Springfield, Missouri; four grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is preceded was death by his parents.

His family will greet friends from 10:00 - 11:00 am Monday, July 23, 2012 at the Joy Baptist Church, Fort Madison, Iowa. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am Monday, July 23, 2012 at the Joy Baptist Church, Fort Madison, Iowa, with Pastor Earl Beal, officiating.

Burial with full military rites will be 1:00 pm Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. A memorial has been established, contributions may be made at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Ft Madison, Iowa.