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Funeral services for Frank "Bud" Wetmore, 92 of Lincoln, Nebraska, formerly of Clarinda and Bedford, Iowa, who entered into peace Thursday, April 19, 2011 at Bryan LGH East Medical Clinic, Lincoln, Nebraska, will be held 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Bedford, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held 1:30 p.m. -2:30 p.m. at the funeral home in Bedford. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery with military rites by John F. Hardin American Legion Post 164, Bedford, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to Fairview Cemetery. 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. Frank L. Wetmore, Jr. (Bud), 92, of Lincoln, Nebraska, formerly of Clarinda, Iowa and a longtime resident of Bedford, Iowa, died on Thursday, April 19, 2012 at Bryan LGH East Medical Center, Lincoln, Nebraska. Bud was born on November 22, 1919 to Frank and Edith (Mawhinney) in Bedford, Iowa. He graduated from Bedford High School in 1937 and attended mortuary school in Kansas City. He married Lucille Wolverton on June 19, 1938. He was inducted into the U.S. Navy on June 22, 1944 and served in World War II as a Pharmacist's Mate. Bud and Lucille lived in Bedford and raised three sons. Bud was a businessman and owned the Wetmore Funeral Home and Dad & Lad Clothing Store in Bedford. He was involved in many community activities such as the Masonic Lodge, the ZaGaZig Shrine, the Bedford Lions Club, the American Legion and the Bedford Volunteer Fire Department. He sold the funeral home in 1959 and said "when his friends became his customers, it was time to move on". They also lived in Poplar Bluff, Missouri before they retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas. He continued to be involved in many organizations in each community. After 63 years of marriage, Lucille died on January 7, 2001. In 2003, Bud moved to Clarinda, Iowa where he married Gwendolyn Trumbo Prather. They had known each other since being in Bedford High School together. Their two families have been intertwined for over 70 years as friends. In October of 2011, Bud and Gwen moved to Lincoln, Nebraska. Bud loved to play bridge and cribbage. He was always an avid bird hunter and golfer and had six Holes-in-One and a Double Eagle. Bud is survived by his wife, Gwen of Lincoln, Nebraska; son, Frank of Bellevue, Idaho; son, Daniel (Cindy) of Mission, Kansas; son, Victor (Sue) of Tucson, Arizona; step-daughter, Joyce (Judson) Douglas of Lincoln, Nebraska; step-son, David (Vicki) Trumbo of Lafayette, Colorado. There are five grandchildren; two great grandchildren; three step grandchildren; eight step great grandchildren and many friends |
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Sherman (Bill) Fay Coleman, 91, of Gravity, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 18, 2012, at the Ringgold County Hospital, Mount Ayr, Iowa. At his request, a private family burial will be held at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. The sixth of ten children, Bill was born on May 12, 1920, to Lew and Lola May (Gray) Coleman in rural Nodaway County, Missouri. Bill helped on the family farm and worked various odd jobs throughout his teenage years. He was working in the stockyards in Des Moines, Iowa, when Pearl Harbor was bombed. He came home to join the Army on April 24, 1942, and served as a radar operator in the Signal Corps during WW II. He was honorably discharged on December 12, 1945. Bill married Helen McMillin on December 31, 1948, in Grant City, Missouri, and to this union, one son, Kevin, was born. After farming in rural Hopkins for nine years, Bill and Helen moved north of Gravity in the spring of 1958 to start the family farm. In 1970, they moved into Gravity, though Bill continued to farm with Kevin, and later, his grandson, Kile, as long as his health allowed. Bill was a member of the Gravity Fire Department and the Gravity American Legion. Farming was his life, but Bill also enjoyed "kicking up his heels" on Saturday night at the Starlight with Helen, taking trips to Las Vegas with good friends Rick and Linda Nicholson, and spending time with his family. He always looked forward to holiday and birthday celebrations when all of the family would be there. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Floyd (Skinny), Robert (Bob), and Raymond, and sisters Ruth (Max) Morrison and Dorothy Kellogg. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Helen, Gravity, IA; his son, Kevin and daughter-in-law, Cindy, Gravity, IA; his grandchildren Deeanna (Jeff) Leporte, Earlham, IA, Denise Coleman (Levi Hensley), Bedford, IA, Kristin (Brian) Sheffield, Earlham, IA and Kile Coleman, Gravity, IA; his great-grandchildren Andrew, Jerod, and Tara Leporte, Brett and Ben Hill and Kody Coleman, Landon and Cale Sheffield, and Kase Coleman; his brother Russ (Vivian) Coleman, Grant City, MO; sisters Mary Brand, Ravenwood, MO and Betty (Ron) Hardee, Belton, MO; brothers-in-law Raymond Morrison, Maryville, MO and Paul (Jo) McMillin, Council Bluffs, IA; sisters-in-law Doris Coleman, Maryville, MO, Wilma McGraw, Essex, IA, Linda (Tom) Anderson, Essex, IA , Anna Mae McMillin, Bedford, IA , Kathy Supinger, Bedford, IA, and many nieces and nephews. Ritchie Funeral Home, Bedford, Iowa, is in charge of the arrangements. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.Memorials can be directed to the Gravity Fire Department or Hospice of Central Iowa. Bill was a great and generous man who will be |
| 003Stanley Ellison, age 85, of Clarinda, Iowa, formerly of Fredericksburg, Iowa entered into peace Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Leslie Traylor officiating. Visitation with the family will be held prior to the service 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. A funeral service will also be held Monday, April 23, 2012 at the Peace United Church of Christ, Fredericksburg, Iowa with Pastor Bert Williams officiating. A visitation with the family will be held in Fredericksburg from 2-5- p.m., Sunday, April 22 at Chenoweth Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Fredericksburg, Iowa. Memorials may be given in Stanley's name. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Stanley Eugene Ellison was born July 20, 1926 to Lyle and Blanche (Thompson) Ellison in rural Chickasaw county. He attended Fredericksburg elementary and high school graduating in 1944. On May 29, 1948 he married Lois Elizabeth Mattke at the Evangelical Church in Fredericksburg, Iowa. Stanley and Lois resided in the Fredericksburg, Iowa area until 2005 when they relocated to Clarinda, Iowa. They were members of Peace United Church of Christ in Fredericksburg, where Stanley served on the church advisory committee of Northeast Iowa for 6 years. Stanley also served on The Chickasaw County Board of Education, Chickasaw County Soil Conservation Board, Chickasaw County Extension Service, and was a member of The Lions Club. After moving to Clarinda they were members of Trinity Presbyterian Church. Stanley and Lois enjoyed traveling to Port Aransas, Texas over the winter months for the past 20 years. Left to cherish Stanley's memory is his wife of 63 years, Lois Elizabeth (Mattke) Ellison. The couple was blessed with four children: Tom (Myrna) of San Antonio, TX; Rodney (Beverly) of Omro, WI; Sue Milius (Tom) of Denver, IA; and Kristin Smith (Michael) of Clarinda, IA. Stanley always had a special place on his lap for his grandchildren: Sonja, Ann, Thomas, Heidi, Adam, Andrew, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Jessica, Caleb, Austin, Owen, & Isabelle. Stanley and Lois were also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren, whom he loved and enjoyed very much, as well as extended family and friends. Stanley was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Blanche Ellison; one brother, Hubert Ellison; and infant son, Edward. Stanley will be greatly missed by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends; his memory will live on in their hearts |
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Thomas (Tommy) Dean Pester, age 49, passed away at his home on Monday, April 16, 2012. He was born March 18, 1963, in Denison, Iowa to Thomas & Janice Pester. He attended school in Craig, Missouri, and graduated in 1981. On March 6, 1982, he was united in marriage to Leisa (Bradley) Paris in Craig, MO. They had two children, Crystal Lynn and Robert Joseph. Following his divorce from Leisa in 1987, Tommy remarried to Pam (Johnson) Meier. They had four children, Brandy Marie, Cody Wayne, Nicole Lee. Tommy lived in Council Bluffs, Iowa and Tarkio, Missouri for most of his life. He started his own construction business & loved to be outdoors. Recently, he moved to New Market, Iowa and met his companion, Susan Harding. They resided together in Clarinda, Iowa and Tommy started working at the Clarinda Co-op where he finally found his place. He often talked to friends and family about how much he loved his job and fellow workers. He also attended church regularly and often visited his children and grandchildren in Shenandoah & Council Bluffs. Tommy is survived by his daughter Crystal & husband Bert Mick of Shenandoah, Iowa; his son, Robert Pester of Maryville, Missouri; his daughter Brandy Pester and her fiancé, John Hinkel of Logan, Iowa; his son Cody & wife Codie Pester of Council Bluffs, Iowa; his daughter Nicole Pester & significant other Brett Beverage of Council Bluffs, Iowa; six grandchildren, Dylan Michael Fuller, Braeden Allen Mick, Brayden Kermit Hinkel, Austin Kyle Hinkel, Riley Marie Pester, & Bentley Renea Beverage; his parents, Tom & Janice Pester of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and one brother, Todd Pester of Council Bluffs, Iowa. He is further survived by a niece, nephews, & many other relatives. Funeral services for Thomas Dean Pester will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 19, at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. The Rev. Bob Smith, pastor, will officiate. Interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery following the services. Relatives and friends are welcome at Ritchie Funeral Home, 222 E. Washington Street, on Wednesday, April 18 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. until the services. We would like to thank the staff of Ritchie Funeral Home, everyone at the Clarinda Co-op, Amy Gardner, and our friends and family for their help and support during this most difficult time |
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Cleeo Mowry, age 83, of Clarinda, Iowa, formerly of Shenandoah, Iowa, entered into peace Monday, April 9, 2012 at Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa. A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m., June 16, 2012 at Rose Hill Church, rural Clarinda, Iowa. .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. Cleeo Coralyn Mowry was born June 2, 1928 at Villisca, Iowa to Jasper H. Crussell and Amy (McNeil) Crussell. She grew up on a farm in the Bethesda area, attending rural schools; North Page Country School to 8th grade then attended Clarinda High School graduating in 1945. She continued her education at a business school in Omaha. She met Walter Mowry in 1948; when he returned from Korea they were united in marriage on April 6, 1952 at Rose Hill Church, Clarinda, Iowa. Walter and Cleeo lived in Washington D.C. where he was stationed. Cleeo worked for Army Intelligence decoding Korean and Chinese codes. They later moved to Omaha where she worked as a stenographer for five years for Cudahy Packing Plant. In 1957, Walter reenlisted in the Air Force and they traveled to many countries and states. Cleeo enjoyed their life in the service and made many friends. In 1973, Walter retired from the Air Force and the couple moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1996, they moved to Shenandoah, Iowa. Walter and Cleeo spent many winters at their home in Phoenix, Arizona. Cleeo suffered a stroke November 2011 and her health declined until her death. Cleeo was very active and a member of the Gideon Society, American Legion Auxiliary, and Kiwanis International. She was a people person and always willing to give of herself. Cleeo was a fine Christian woman; she loved to grow spiritually and she led Bible studies in her home. She had a special gift of working with children. Cleeo was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Clemmeth Crussell. Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Walter Mowry of Shenandoah, Iowa; sisters, Millicent Copelin of Villisca, Iowa and Frankadene Nicholas of Coral Gables, Florida;sister-in-law, Pauline Crussell of Clarinda, Iowa; a special nephew, David Crussell and wife Paula of Clarinda, Iowa; nephews, Robert Powell, Jack Powell and Rick Powell of St. Louis, Missouri, John Powell and wife Michelle of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; nieces, Denise Copelin of Villisca, Iowa and Deborah Ashton of Denver, Colorado; many grandnephews and grandnieces and many friends |
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Marcia (Tyson) Symanski, 92 Maryville, Missouri died Friday, April 13, 2012, at Golden Living Center in Maryville, Missouri. She was born December 22, 1919, in rural Atchison County, Missouri. Marcia was the daughter of the late Edwin and Lettie (Walkup) Tyson. Marcia was a 1936 graduate of Maryville High School and graduated from Northwest Missouri State Teachers College with a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education. She married John Symanski December 18, 1944 in Troy Kansas. Marcia and John owned and operated the Maryville Florist business for 35 years. Preceding her in death were husband John (12/16/2006), brothers, Edwin Louis and Turner Walkup Tyson, and a nephew Edwin C.Tyson. She was a member of St. Oswald's Episcopal Church, rural Fairfax, Missouri. Surviving are nephews Turner Tyson, Jefferson City, MO, and Wayne Collins, San Jaun Capistrano, CA, and one niece Barbara Finn, Pensacola, FL. Mrs. Symanski's body has been cremated. Memorial services will be held at a later date at St. Oswald's Episcopal Church. Inurment will be in the Walkup Grove Cemetery, rural Fairfax, Missouri. Memorial: St. Oswald's Historical Corporation, c/o of Mary Catherine Ball, Fairfax, MO 64446 |
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Donald Eugene Weber, 88, Maryville, Missouri, died Friday, April 13, 2012, at Laverna Village Nursing Home, Savannah, Missouri. Donald was born February 9, 1924, in Maryville to the late Leo and Anna (Sturm) Weber. A 1942 graduate of Maryville High School, he was a Farmer and Electrician. He served as a Military Policeman in the United States Army during World War II in the European, African and Middle Eastern Theatres. He married Doris Eileen Pfeiffer on February 22, 1947, in Maryville, Missouri. She preceded him in death on September 14, 2007. Donald was a member of the St Gregory Barbarigo Parish and the Disabled Veterans of America. Survivors include: daughter Donna Sue (Larry) Fine, Bowling Green, MO and son Gary Joe (Bonnie) Weber, Savannah, MO; four granddaughters, Heather (Doug) Korte, Julie Gilbert and friend Mike Henry, Keli (Lonnie) Morris, and Keri (Daniel) Richey; and six great grandchildren. Parish Prayer Service will be held 6:30 PM, Monday, April 16, 2012 followed by family visitation from 7-8 PM, at Price Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 AM, Monday, April 17, 2012, at St Gregory's Catholic Church, Maryville. Inurnment will be in the Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, Missouri. Memorials: St Gregory Barbarigo Community or AseraCare Hospice (301 East Price Ave, Savannah, MO |
008Gibson Doyle Wagoner, infant son of Aaron Wagoner & Angela (Lapel) Wagoner of Crete, Nebraska was stillborn Friday afternoon, May 18, 2012 at Bryan LGH Medical Center, Lincoln, Nebraska. Eikemeyer Funeral Chapel
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| 009Mary Isabelle Edgar McKinley was born March 25, 1927 in Sterling, Kansas to Robert Metheny Edgar and Sarah Margaret Isabelle Dougherty Edgar. Mary was a daughter of the Great Depression, eighth of nine children living on a small farm in central Kansas. Although she had a rich life full of loving immediate and extended family in Sterling, the major events of her earliest years included the crash of the world economy, the dust storms of the 1930s, and World War II. These experiences led her to continue through life emphasizing the simple important basics of living rather than any frills or extravagance. Her priorities were family, church, and community, thinking of service to others instead of herself. The experiences also left her frugal, avoiding waste of anything. Her parents lived out their faith in the Lord, being examples of how to trust the Lord through every circumstance in life. This way of life gave her a foundation that would serve her well for eighty-five years. She attended both a one room rural schoolhouse and later, Sterling High School, notably with the same six neighbor girls through these years. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology at Sterling College. She loved nature and was privileged to live where she could fully enjoy it all her life. She came to College Springs in 1948 to lead Youth Club at the United Presbyterian Church. There she met Joseph "Joe" Allison McKinley, and they were married on April 7, 1950. The couple had four children: Sarah "Sally" Louise, Brian Edgar, Ellen Jane, and Helen Marie. She performed many tasks on their farm such as feeding livestock, helping with harvest, helping rake and bale hay, and walking beans. Those were added to her cooking, cleaning, preparing meals, working in the yard, gardening, and caring for children. Mary was an active participant in the community as a 4-H leader, Cub Scout den mother, volunteer for school events, and Farm Bureau women’s leader. Mary supported the church throughout her life, leading Youth Club, Vacation Bible School, Sunday School, Deacons, Bible studies, Prayer Circle meetings, nursing home sing-alongs, ministering to shut-ins, all based out of a daily, personal Christian devotional life. She was creative, arranging flowers, enjoying calligraphy, crafts, gardening, basket making, costume design, and needlework. She lived on the farm in the same house for 62 years. Widowed for 25 years, she remained independent on the farmstead until her death. In later years with worn out knees, she depended on neighbors and family for some major tasks, but continued to mow her own large yard, plant, dig, and weed her own flower and vegetable gardens, and manage the household. She asked for help only very reluctantly. In later years, Mary was known throughout the community as a mother, grandmother, surrogate grandmother and great grandmother, caring for children in her home and at the daycare in College Springs. She was a committed member of the neighborhood OK Club and a regular attendee at Wednesday morning coffee at the College Spring Community Building. Mary continued to enjoy life, family, travel, church, and community, even making plans for the future until the time of her death. She was ready to depart this life and reach the goal of receiving the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, for which her whole life had been geared. She was preceded in death by her parents, six siblings, husband Joe, and daughter Sally Penner. She is survived by three children: Brian (Marsha) McKinley of Boise, Idaho; Jane (Jon) Stimson of Clarinda, Iowa; Helen (Doug) Quarnstrom of Prairie Village, Kansas; and son-in-law Bob (Dawn) Penner , Ralston, Nebraska. Surviving grandchildren include: Allison Penner, Erin Penner, Lisa McKinley, Lori (Kevin) Donovan, Seth (Heather) Stimson and their daughter McKinlee, Jesse (Tasha) Stimson, Jordan (Elizabeth) Stimson, Andrew (Halee) Stimson, Mary Quarnstrom and Joel Quarnstrom. Surviving siblings include Howard (Betty) Edgar of Hutchinson, Kansas and sister Carol (Reed) Hindman of Minneola, Kansas. Surviving brothers-in-law include: Robert (Barbara) McKinley of Siler City, North Carolina and Donald (Joyce) McKinley, Quincy, Illinois. Numerous cousins, nieces and nephews survive as well. Celebration of Life service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, May 18, 2012 at United Presbyterian Church in College Springs with interment at 10 a.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery, College Springs, Iowa. Visitation with the family greeting friends will be 7-9 p.m. Thursday, May 17 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to United Presbyterian Church in College Springs, Reformed Presbyterian Church rural Clarinda, or Sterling College, Sterling, Kansas. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements. www.EFC.c |
| 010Funeral services for Kathryn Lee, age 94, of Clarinda, who entered into peace Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at the Eiler House, Clarinda, were held 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 12, 2012 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda with Reverend Beckie Linn Gregory officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5-7 p.m., Friday, May 11, 2012 at the funeral home. Burial was held in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda. Memorials may be directed to Nodaway Free Clinic. 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. Kathryn Lucille Lee was born September 17, 1917, at Clarinda to Bruce and Wilma June (Linebaugh) Carr. She grew up in Clarinda and graduated from Clarinda High School in 1935. Kate and Chester Lee were united in marriage August 20, 1936 in Atchison, Kan. They were blessed with four children, Karen, Deanna, Leeland Martin, and Melanie. Kate was a life long resident of Clarinda and a member of the First Christian Church for over fifty years. She was also an active member for over fifty years of the Order of Eastern Star. She was assistant mother advisor for Rainbow girls. Kate had many interests; her passion was quilting and collecting Hummel figurines. She also enjoyed rooster figurines, traveling, shopping, gardening and reading. She took great pride in her family and enjoyed their accomplishments. Preceding Kate in death were her parents; husband, Chester Lee; daughter, Karen Merle Lee; brother, Leeland Merle Carr. Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Deanna Lyon of Schleswig, Iowa; son, Martin Lee and wife Carol of Bonita Springs, Fla.; daughter, Melanie Sump and husband Darrel of Clarinda, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Valerie Wise and husband Steve of Lancaster, Pa.; Jana Lyon of Omaha, Neb.; Tina Berg and husband Brad of West Des Moines, Iowa; Dr. Michael S. Lee and wife Kristin of Johnston, Iowa; Stacy Berringer and husband James of Lincoln, Neb.; Wendy Schoen and husband Jason of Blue Springs, Mo.; Capt. Scott Montgomery and wife Karrie of Sierra Vista, Ariz.; fifteen great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Phillip Lee of Long Beach, Calif.; nieces, nephews and many friends. Kate will be missed by her family and friends but her memory will live on in their hearts. May God grant comfort and peace to those who mourn her passing |
| 011Norma Elizabeth Marie Otte Demanett, 101 of rural Clarinda passed away May 8, 2012 in Red Oak, Iowa. Norma was born on a farm 10 miles northwest of Clarinda, Iowa on January 12, 1911 to Anna (Rope) Demanett and Joseph Otte. She graduated from Immanuel Lutheran School. On July 17, 1941 Norma married Ralph Demanett from Concordia, Kansas. Norma raised oodles of chickens, a big garden, sewed, quilted, and tatted. Norma and Ralph had three children: Juanita (Wesley) Blume, of Clarinda, Iowa, Janet (Monroe) Neihart, Braddyville, Iowa, Richard Damanett who resides on the farm. Surviving Norma are three children, eight grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph; parents Joe and Anna Otte; and a brother Herbert (Frances) Otte. Norma will be long remembered for her stubborn determination, spirit of life, delightful sense of humor and excellent cooking (from scratch). In her later years she wished to reach the age of 100 and stay in her home on the farm. That she did! Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, May 10, 2012 at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery northwest of Clarinda, Iowa with Pastor Boye officiating. Memorials are suggested to Immanuel Tape Ministry or Clarinda Lutheran School. There is open visitation at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel www.EFC.cc |
| 012Graveside services for Donald Pitman, age 47, of Pleasant Hill, Iowa, formerly of New Market, Iowa, who entered into peace Monday, May 7, 2012 at his home in Pleasant Hill, Iowa, were held 11:30 a.m. Friday, May 11, 2012 at the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation with the family was held 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., prior to the service at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda. Burial was in the Clarinda Cemetery, Clarinda, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to New Market Fire and Rescue. 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. Donald Dean Pitman was born July 13, 1964 in Clarinda to Lyle and Marie (Cameron) Pitman. He passed away on May 7, 2012 at Pleasant Hill. He graduated from New Market High School with the class of 1982. Later he attended Iowa Western Community College at Clarinda. He worked at the Lil' Duffer while in school. Later on he worked at the Iowa Department of Revenue in Des Moines, Prairie Meadows in Altoona and Wal-Mart in Windsor Heights. He enjoyed leather-working and photography. Don was preceded in death by his father Lyle, and his grandmothers. He is survived by his mother, Marie of Pleasant Hill; brothers, Dave (Denise) Pitman of Indianola, Iowa; Doug (Rhonda) Pitman of Granger, Iowa; nieces and nephew: Michelle, Julie, Lisa, and Samuel Pitman. May God grant comfort and peace to those who mourn his passing |
| 013Funeral services for Zach Churchill, age 32, of Bedford, who died Monday, May 7, 2012 at his parent's home were held Sunday, May 13, 2012 at 3 p.m. at the New Life Missionary Church. Visitation were held at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford on Friday from 12:00 noon until 4:00 PM; on Saturday from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM with the family greeting friends from 4-6. Interment were held at Washington Cemetery in Gravity. Instead of flowers memorials may be directed to Greater Regional Hospice. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Zachary Lee Churchill was born September 8, 1979, in Corning, Iowa the son of Monte D. Churchill and Ronda Jean (Matheny) Churchill. He grew up attending school in Bedford, graduating with the Class of 1998. During his high school years, Zach enjoyed participating in football and wrestling. After high school graduation, he attended NIACC in Mason City for a year. He then went to work for Federal Mogul in Maryville, Missouri for five years. Zach always had a passion for cooking and wanted to attend culinary school, so in 2005, he went to New York to attend The French Culinary Institute. While in New York he worked for De Gustibus at Macy's and The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA.) He then moved to Kansas City where he worked at Pacific Grill and later the Peppercorn Duck Club at the Hyatt Regency. He also worked at the Zebra Room in the Aladdin Hotel. Zach accepted the opportunity to move to Orlando, Florida to work for the General Manager from the Aladdin Hotel. He lived in Orlando for four years with the last two spent being the Executive Chef at Coco Keys Resort which he helped open. Zach enjoyed the outdoors when he was young by camping, fishing and hunting with family and friends. He liked collecting guns and knives. While in Kansas City he developed a passion for Harley Davidson Motorcycles. He was happy to be able to ride all year long while living in Florida. Zach was always a 'free spirit' possessing an independent nature. He was never satisfied with his culinary efforts and was always pushing himself to develop new skills to make things better. He could take leftovers and turn them into a gourmet meal with no effort at all! Zach insisted that his whole family visit him and do the attractions in Orlando during the summer of 2011. Adysen and Lilyen were thrilled to go to Florida to visit Uncle Zach and see "Princesses." The last two years, Zach has valiantly battled cancer, returning home to Bedford one month ago to live with his family. Left to cherish the memories of this wonderful son, brother, grandson and friend are his parents, Monte and Ronda Churchill of Bedford; his brother, Cody Churchill and wife Elizabeth and their girls, Adysen and Lilyen and new son, Eli Zachary of Grimes, Iowa; paternal grandparents, Bill and Florine Churchill of Bedford; maternal grandmother, Cathy Sixkiller of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; and a step-grandmother, Marilyn Beck of Lenox, Iowa; along with many, many friends and co-workers. Preceding Zach in death is his grandfather, Joe Matheny; and a step-grandfather, Dean Sixkiller. Zach will be missed by his entire family and many friends. We will hold the memories of his free spirit, wit and wisdom as a wonderful gift of encourament to each of us. He will live on in our hearts forever |
| 014Doris Jean Caudill was born July 3, 1937 to Dillard Wesley Keever and Mable Irene (Neal) Keever at Quitman, Missouri. She attended Quitman High School, Quitman, Missouri. She was married to Virgil Caudill and the couple had eight children: Debra, Dennis, Gloria Sue, Cindy, Kathy, Pamela, John and Steve. Doris was always a caregiver-at first to her growing family-and then as a nurse aide and med tech at nursing homes. She was also a transporter and cook at Head Start. In later years she certainly enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. On May 3, 2012 Doris passed away at St. Joseph, Missouri at the age of 74. She was preceded in death by her father, Dillard Keever, sister Dorothy June Keever, brothers Donald Paul Keever, and Dwight Keever, half-brother Gary Keever and close friend, Gary May. She is survived by her mother, Mable Hutson of Quitman, Missouri; children Debra Willis, Maryville, MO, Dennis Caudill, Tarkio, MO, Gloria Sue Garms, Maryville, MO, Cindy Heck and husband Robert, Mound City, MO, Kathy Miller and husband Chuck, LaMarque, TX, Pamela Brummett, Maysville, MO, John Caudill, Licking, MO, and Steve Caudill, St. Joseph, MO; former husband Virgil Caudill, Ava, MO; brothers Darrell Keever, Quitman, MO, and Dan Keever and wife Connie of Gladstone, MO; sister Donna Pitts and husband Lloyd of Burlington Junction, MO; 24 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; half-sisters Diane Keever and Vicki Keever; half-brother Randy Keever; and sister-in-law Josephine Keever, Marionville, MO. Funeral services for Doris Caudill, 74 of Quitman, MO will be 2 p.m. Monday, May 7, 2012 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Clarinda with interment at Quitman Cemetery. There is open visitation Sunday and Monday with family greeting friends one hour prior to service Monday. Memorials are suggested to Tiffany Heights Care Center, Mound City, MO to the piano fund. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Clarinda, 712-542-4200 www.EFC.cc |
| 015Funeral services for Kelly Cordell, age 69, of Blockton, who died Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at the Lenox Care Center will be held Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 2:00 PM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until service time with the family greeting friends. Interment will be held in the Athelstan Cemetery. Memorials can be given in his name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Colen Kelly Cordell was born, one of seven children to John Willie Cordell and Juanita Mary (Rusco) Cordell on April 19, 1943 in Athelstan, Iowa. Kelly was a life-long resident of Athelstan where he grew up attending school. He also enjoyed dancing, fishing and cookouts. He was close to his family and enjoyed them being an active part of his life, always placing a lot of trust in them. Kelly lived a simple life. He enjoyed animals and the outdoors and always looked forward to going places. Survivors include his sister, Erma Pauline Young of Athelstan; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding Kelly in death were his parents, John and Juanita Cordell; three brothers, Doyle, Gene and Leonard Cordell; and two sisters, Colleen Fleetwood and Geraldine Young. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Kelly's passing |
| 016Michael J. Minard, 38, Omaha, Neb., was born March 18, 1974, in Clarinda, Iowa, and passed away May 1, 2012. Michael enjoyed hunting, fishing, the outdoors, and most of all he enjoyed his family. He was preceded in death by his father, John Minard; grandparents, Bibs and Irene Minard, and Sport and Kathryn Hummel. He is survived by wife, Stacy; children, Stasia, age 8, and Parker, age 5; mother, Teresa Minard; sister, Lisa (Curtis) Hull; nephew and niece, Jacob and Anna; parents-in-law, Mike and Joan Novacek; brother-in-law, Lance (Kristy) Novacek; niece and nephew, Kenadee and Landon; brother-in-law, Dana Novacek (fiancé, Amanda Wertz); numerous other family members and friends. Memorial Mass was held on Saturday, May 5 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 508 W. Angus St., in Gretna, Neb. Private Interment took place in Primrose, Neb. Visit www.bramanmortuary.com to leave a condolence |
| 017Funeral services for Pauline Miller, age 89, of Lenox, who passed away on Monday, April 30, 2012 at Blackhawk Assisted Living in Spring Hill, Kansas. Services will be held Friday, May 4, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the Lenox United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held Thursday at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Lenox from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held at the West Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be given in Pauline's name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox. Pauline LaVon Miller, was born near Conway, Taylor County, Iowa on September 18, 1922, the daughter of John Andrew Hargin and Allice Susan (Chaney) Hargin. She was the oldest of two daughters born to John and Alice. At the age of 13, Pauline lost her mother and had to take on many of the household duties. She started school at a country school and later transferred to town and graduated from Lenox Community School. Pauline loved going to school, going to Parsons College in Fairfield, Iowa after high school. After two years at Parsons she was able to get a teaching certificate and start teaching. While at Parsons, Pauline met her first husband Bruce Arnold McKern. This union resulted in her only child, Lana LaVon (McKern) Ramsdell. She lost Bruce during WWII. Moving back to Lenox she started teaching in the Lenox school system. Pauline stayed at the Lenox Hotel while teaching and met second husband Lyle (Pete) Miller, who had a business across the street from the hotel. After her marriage to Pete she returned to college attending Drake University in Des Moines weekends and summers until she obtained her Bachelors in Education. Once again, after ten years of marriage she lost another husband. Being widowed twice she decided she would stay single. She continued taking classes here and there over the years with almost enough credit to get her Masters. Pauline started teaching 5th grade in Lenox and when she retired she was teaching High School English and College Prep classes. Going to Europe with students, family, and friends was one of her favorite times...having gone 18-20 times. Pauline was active in many outside organizations and clubs; DAR, Delta Kappa Gamma, American Legion Auxiliary, church circle, Eastern Star and several clubs. As she aged, she became more and more interested in genealogy. She had traced her fathers roots back through several generations and enjoyed discussing with anyone willing to listen. She belonged to several groups and organizations involving genealogy. Pauline was preceded in death by her parents, John and Alice Hargin, her sister Geraldine, both husbands, Bruce McKern and Lyle Miller. Survivors: daughter Lana LaVon McKern Ramsdell, Spring Hill, Kansas; grandkids: Janine Gilbert, Irving, Texax; Dayla Ciba, Coconut Creek, Florida; Michaela Ramsdell, Spring Hill, Kansas; Brad Ramsdell, Paola, Kansas. Several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. A special thank you to Good Shepherd hospice nurses that sat with Pauline her last days. Although Pauline will be greatly missed, her love and inspiration will live on through her family |
| 018Lola Clem Huss Perdew was born March 27, 1919 near Gravity in Taylor County, Iowa to Nancy Jane Firkins Huss and Lewis Huss. She graduated from Gravity High School in 1936. On June 23, 1937 she was united in marriage to Howard Perdew in Bedford, Iowa. To this union was born one son, Monte Carol. The couple celebrated 50 years of marriage in 1987. Lola had been living at the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center for 7 years where she received good care. Lola was blessed to have good friends. She was a member of the Friendship Club which she really enjoyed. Lola was a homemaker, mother and wife. She was of the Christian faith. Some of Lola’s favorite things were ice cream, fried chicken and popcorn. She will be missed by the girls at Bedford Nursing and her good friend, Margaret Lucas, and a host of others. She was preceded in death by son, Monte Carol, her husband, her parents, and two brothers Calvin and Charles Huss, and two sisters, Vada McColm and Mildred Moore. Lola is survived by two nieces and one nephew: Lewis McColm, Joreen Cole, and Joyce Jones. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Bedford with Rev. Joe Ledbetter of Faith Baptist Church officiating. Interment will be at Washington Cemetery, Gravity, Iowa. There is open visitation Tuesday and Wednesday at the funeral chapel. Memorials are suggested to a charity of the donor’s choice. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Bedford is in charge of arrangements. www.EFC.cc |
| 019Memorial services for William "Garfield" Pugh, age 80, of Creston, Iowa, formerly of Shambaugh, Iowa, who entered into peace Saturday, April 28, 2012 at Crest Haven Care Center, Creston, Iowa, will be held at a later date in Kingston, Tennessee. 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. William Garfield Pugh was born October 1, 1931 at Huntington, Tennessee, to Luther Pugh and Eva Mae (McAlexander) Pugh. Garfield grew up in Tennessee and also lived in Oregon and other places before moving to Shambaugh, Iowa where he lived for forty years. On July 2, 1970, he was united in marriage to Delpha (Kinman) Savage at Maryville, Missouri. Garfield was employed at Lisle Corporation for twenty nine years as a machinist and in the shipping department. He retired in 1993 and enjoyed helping local auctioneers Clark Crawford and Jim Hutchinson. Garfield also enjoyed his retirement years with his interest in gardening. He shared his garden produce with many neighbors, friends and family. Preceding Garfield in death were his parents; brothers, J.D. Pugh, Horace Pugh; sisters, Wilma Clark, Jesse Davis, Hallie Dee. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Delpha Pugh of Creston, Iowa; daughter, Nancy Smotherman of Kingston, Tennessee; sons, Billy Pugh and Jerry Pugh of Oregon; step sons, Clark Savage and Larry Savage of Creston, Iowa; grandchildren, Tonia Taylor and Lisa Coe; great grandchildren, Eva Britany, Kayla Ann, Billie ray, Moses, Dakota Elizabeth, Taylor Wayne, Brandon and Brady; great grandchildren, Dustin and D.J.; step grandchildren, Jessica Savage and Dillon Savage of Creston, Iowa; sister, Annie Mae Holland of McLemoresville, Tennessee; nieces; nephews and many friends. Garfield will be missed by his family and friends; his memory will live on in their hearts. May God grant comfort and peace to those who mourn his passing |
| 020Funeral services for Ruby Allen Hodge , 68 of Clarinda, will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home with interment at Maple Hill Cemetery, College Springs, Iowa. Family will greet friends Thursday one hour prior to service. Memorials are suggested to a fund established to assist the family. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements |
| 021Verla L. Easter was born April 18, 1918 in New Market, Iowa to Merrill and Edna (Thompson) Peterman. She departed this life April 25, 2012 at the Pine View Manor in Stanberry, Missouri at the age of 94 years. Verla graduated from High School and worked as a sales clerk at Montgomery Ward for many years. She was united in marriage to Clifford D. Easter. They were the parents of two daughters, Sharon and Marilyn. Verla was preceded in death by her husband Clifford, daughter Sharon, parents Merrill and Edna, sister Pearl Pershin, brothers, Dale, Kenneth, Dennis, and Floyd Peterman. She is survived by her daughter Marilyn and husband Bob Tibbetts of Grant City, two grandchildren and four great grandchildren, one brother Ray Peterman, Bedford, Iowa. Verla will be sadly missed by her family and friends. Graveside Services and Interment were 2:00 P.M. Saturday, April 28, 2012 at the Old Memory Cemetery in New Market, Iowa, under the direction of Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home, Grant City, Missouri. Rev. Len Green officiated |
| 022Rachel M. Anderson, the daughter of Tom and Glydia (Kelley) Day was born July 13, 1917 at Villisca, Iowa. She passed away on Sunday, April 22, 2012 at the Stanton Care Center, Stanton, Iowa at the age of 94 years, 9 months and 9 days. Rachel grew up on the Day Farm near Hepburn, Iowa, but lived most of her life in Stanton. She graduated from Villisca High School in l934 and went to Northwest Missouri State College for two years. She began her teaching career at rural Gridley School. In 1938, she started teaching in Stanton. Rachel was united in marriage on August 31, 1941 to Randolph (Bus) Anderson of Stanton and eventually became the mother of four daughters. During World War II, Rachel lived in Villisca, while Bus spent three years in the Army stationed in New Guinea and the Philippines. After his return, they moved back to Stanton. Rachel returned to full time teaching in 1952 and continued her education and earned her teaching degree. She taught 2nd grade in Stanton for many years and retired in l982. Besides her teaching career and raising four daughters, Rachel always felt one of her greatest accomplishments was having all four daughters married in a 13 month span at Mamrelund Lutheran Church. Rachel was an avid Cubs fan, enjoyed playing cards and reading. She was active in the Stanton Senior Citizens, American Legion Auxiliary, the 20th Century Club and various other organizations. She was a long time member of Mamrelund Lutheran Church. Rachel lived in the house she and Bus purchased in 1952 until January 2011, when she fell and broke her femur. Rachel had been a resident of the Stanton Care Center since February of 2011. She was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Glydia (Kelley) Day, husband Randolph on January 17, 1986, grandson, Karl Hundtofte, four brothers, and one sister. Rachel is survived by four daughters: Sara (Chet) Worm of Omaha, NE; Martha (Vern) Hundtofte of Council Bluffs, IA; Linda (John) Nyquist of Chicago, IL and Teresa (Rick) Arrington of Dubuque, IA; seven grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and other relatives and friends. May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn. Funeral Service were held Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Stanton, Iowa. Burial in Mamre Cemetery, Stanton, Iowa, with Rev. Dr. Eric Kutzli, Officiating. Open Viewing at Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home Memorials may be made to the Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Stanton Fire & Rescue or the Stanton Swedish Cultural Center. Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. |
| 023Franklin Thomas Williams,64 , of Denzil Dr. Hopkinsville died Saturday, April 21, 2012 at Jennie Stuart Medical Center of a brief illness. Visitation were held Tuesday April 24, 2012 from 4-8 p.m. at Hughart & Beard Funeral Home in Hopkinsville,KY. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 27, 2012 at Elmwood Cemetery Coin, Iowa. A native of Todd County, KY he was born May 6, 1947 the son of the late Charlie Thomas Williams and Levy( Henderson) Williams. He was retired from Forrest B. White Masonary and Construction. Survivors include his wife, Kathy Williams of Hopkinsville,KY; one son, Franklin Williams Jr. of Oak Grove KY;one daughter, Brenda Williams Perkins of West Burlington, Iowa; two brothers, Jimmie Williams of Hopkinsville,KY and Raymond Williams of Boise, Idaho; four sisters, Nora Steinhoefel of Shenandoah, Iowa; Barbara Carranza & Ann Martin both of Hopkinsville,KY; Libby Thorne of Iowa; nine grandchildren |
| 024Mable Leona Stewart, age 89, passed away Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Bedford Nursing Home. She was born April 25, 1922 in Hopkins, Missouri, to Burt and Lula (Shelton) Blackney. Mable attended Hopkins school and graduated in 1940. She married Kenneth Stewart in Grant City, Missouri on November 28, 1940. Mable spent the first few years of married life being a farm wife where they farmed in Athelston and then Gravity. They later moved to Bedford, bought the Main Street Café which Mable managed for 21 years, making the Café known for the broasted chicken and homemade onion rings. After 21 years they sold the Main Street and Mable then worked at the Clarinda Mental Health Institute for several years before retiring. She is survived by her daughter, Sonnie Rusco of Bedford, granddaughter Deidre and husband Jeff Savala of Bedford, Iowa, sisters-in-law Isabel Blackney of Maryville, MO, Austie Lindley of Spring Valley, California, and Goldie and husband Ray Hasenjaeger of Edina, Minnesota, nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Kenneth, and brothers Bud and Ed Blackney. Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa. Rev. Matthew Novotny will officiate. Family visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Fairview Cemetery Fund. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel, Bedford, is in charge of arrangements |
| 025Herb Charles Bashaw, age 81, of Villisca, Iowa passed away Friday, April 20, 2012 at the Villisca Good Samaritan Society. Herb Bashaw was born February 25, 1931 near Stanton, Iowa the son of Harry H. and Ethel Marie (Lofgren) Bashaw. He graduated from Villisca High School in the class of 1948 and was united in marriage to Wilma Lynam on August 5, 1951 in Villisca, Iowa. Herb served in the Iowa Army National Guard from 1948 until 1957 becoming Master Sgt and serving on the Drill Team. He started farming in 1948 and moved back to the home farm in 1974. His son Tom now lives on the home place. Herb was involved in many community activities including being a 4-H leader in East Township for 9 years, Vice President of the Farm Bureau, President of the Coop for two years, Villisca City Council member, member of the school board for many years serving as President for two years, was a member of the Red Oak Elks Lodge, and long time member of the Methodist Church where he served on the Board of Trustees, Finance Committee, SPPR, and the Nominating Committee. He enjoyed playing golf, reading history, traveling, especially their trip to Paris, and he always enjoyed coffee with his friends at the elevator. Preceding him in death were his parents; brother: John; and sister: Mary Jo. Survivors include his wife: Wilma of Villisca, Iowa; children: Joel Bashaw and wife Marlene of Shenandoah, Iowa; Jeanne Jones of San Antonio, Texas; and Tom Bashaw and wife Carolyn of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren: Elizabeth Bashaw of Omaha, Nebraska; Heidi Eide and husband Eric of Alexandria, Virginia; Todd Bashaw of Shenandoah, Iowa; Brent Jones of San Antonio, Texas; Megan Lukes and husband Herb of Naperville, Illinois; Brittany Bashaw and special friend Josh Wiig of Red Oak, Iowa; and Josh Bashaw of Villisca, Iowa; great grandson: Grayson Eide of Alexandria, Virginia; and many other relatives and friends. A celebration of life service were held at 5 PM Sunday, April 22, 2012 at the Villisca United Methodist Church with Pastor Gordon Scott officiating. Visitation with the family were held from 3:30 until 5 PM Sunday, April 22, 2012 at the Villisca United Methodist Church prior to the celebration of life service. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Villisca United Methodist Church Trustees or the Montgomery County Relay for Life. Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel, Red Oak, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements |
| 026Inez Huntsman, 93, entered into peace April 19, 2012 at Gold Country Health Center, Placerville, Ca. Services were held at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Clarinda, Iowa Sat. April 28. Visitation 10:00 A.M., Service 11:00 A.M. Pastor Dan Wiebesiek officiating. Internment will follow at Old Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. A luncheon was served at the New Market Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to the Methodist Church of New Market or a cancer charity of choice. Memories can be shared via Ritchie Funeral Home web site, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Inez Geraldine Huntsman was born Feb. 27, 1919 in Gravity, Iowa; the daughter of Clarence A. Robinson and Clara M. (Neville) Robinson. She attended Cottage Grove Country School and Gravity High School. Inez married Jan. 25, 1939 Leonard L. Huntsman and moved with him to California. The first few years of their marriage was spent on the American River panning for gold. She moved with her in-laws to Central California and worked packing fruit while Leonard was away during WWII. After the war they settled in the Placerville area, where Leonard logged and Inez became a loving mother to two children. She was known for her baking and sewing skills as well as volunteering for PTA functions, Girl Scout, Boy Scout activities and any room mother duties. She remained in the Placerville area until 1976 when she and Leonard returned to Iowa to care for her mother-in-law. They stayed busy gardening. Inez canned her fruit and vegetables. They also took their produce to the farmer's market in Bedford. Inez was active in the Methodist Church of New Market until Leonard's failing health kept her close to home. She cared for him until his passing in 2008. Shortly thereafter she moved to Placerville, Ca to be closer to her daughter. For the next two years she stayed active, making new friends and as through out her life, being a good neighbor, with the welcome mat out, a smile on her face and something sweet to eat on a plate, she welcomed all. Inez is survived by a daughter, Janet Ramos, son-in-law, Reve Ramos; half brother, Oren Robinson; grandchildren, Jason Huntsman and wife Danielle, Nathan Huntsman, Heidi Graham, Travis Ramos, Amber Ramos and husband Patrick Schafer; great grandchildren, Daniel and Brian Mullen, Alyson, Grace & William Graham, Jessica and Matthew Huntsman, and many nieces, nephews and friends. Preceding Inez in death, her parents; husband, Leonard Huntsman; son, Dale Huntsman; brother Edwin Robinson; brothers-in-laws, Donald, Lloyd and Dick Huntsman; Sisters-in-laws, Madylene Huntsman, Eula Crew, Joan Robinson, and Linda Robinson; great grandson Timothy Graham |
| 027Kathryn Marie (Moore) Higgins was born September 10, 1934 in Gravity, Iowa; the only daughter to Chauncy Vane and Verla Marie (Utter) Moore. Kathryn grew up in the Gravity area and graduated from Gravity High School. She married James Larry Higgins in 1960 in Clarinda, Iowa. This union was blessed with seven children: Sharon, David, Kathy, D.D., Bonnie, Steve and Stacey. Kathryn’s greatest joy in life was spending time with her family. During the earlier years, having an extremely modest income, this included family vacations for her, Larry and their seven children each summer to visit and stay, visit and play games with other family members. Even with very limited funds, she always found ways to make each trip seem like an adventure making it something that each child looked forward to every summer. As the family grew older and larger, this expanded to holiday gatherings for the children and grandchildren to attend. There was nothing like the annual Christmas Eve soup and sandwich gathering at her house that always reminded you how important family was to her. At every family gathering, Kathryn always basked in the midst of all the continual conversation and activity. Most of all, she loved watching her children’s families grow and expand into grandchildren and then great grandchildren, always spending as much time as she could with those who lived nearby and then keeping up as much as she possibly could with those who lived away from her. She truly had a very special place in her heart for each and every grandchild and great grandchild! In addition to spending quality time with her family, Kathryn had several other interests as well. First of all, she had a love for country music. This began by enjoying the considerable music talent of her husband Larry and then expanded into her weekend ritual of attending music shows. She loved following her favorite local musician Mike Duley “Doolittle” and listening to him play. So much so, that she would even sometimes plan her family events around her music show schedules. In many ways, her music show friends that she made over the years are a true extension of her family. Even in her future absence from upcoming shows, Kathryn will shout straight from heaven, “Doolittle, play on!” If not music shows, then it was NASCAR. If she wasn’t attending races in Adams County Speedway in Corning, Iowa, she was either watching NASCAR on TV or recording a race to watch later. A voracious Dale Earnhardt, Sr. fan throughout his entire career, Kathryn remained a loyal fan of NASCAR right up until she took her very last breath. She even participated in a NASCAR Fantasy league each week and placed her very last picks this past Saturday. Even more amazing, only three (3) weeks prior to Saturday, immediately after her initial recovery from a near death experience, she specifically insisted, while still in ICU, that the doctors wait on performing a test so that she could finish watching the NASCAR race that was on TV. May NASCAR nation fly the checkered flag at half-mast in her honor! Kathryn never met a stranger and always enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people. Whether it was when she was working in one of her former clerical and /or secretarial jobs or whether she was volunteering somewhere within the community of Bedford, Kathryn was always quick with a smile and a warm comment. She really felt strong about her community and often said, “People need to believe in Bedford”. Finally, Kathryn was always one with a quick wit and great sense of humor. Ever the prankster and practical joker right up until her passing, she was always gracious to those who pranked her only because it provided her with the opportunity to find an even better way to get them back. You never knew when the next prank was coming nor in what form. You did, however, know that it was definitely coming. Kathryn always loved to both hear and tell a good joke and most of all, she loved to laugh. A visit to her house would almost always immediately make one smile. Whether it was caused by taking in her large collection of “smiley faces” which matched her own smile or surveying her vast collection of “hippos” which could bring a smile to anyone, you couldn’t help but leave her presence in a better frame of mind. For family members, it became a yearly Christmas or Birthday gift ritual to try and find the most original or unique “smiley face” or “hippo” to add to her collection. Friends and family alike were very blessed to have had the past few weeks to spend some quality time with Kathryn and share in that special sense of humor. It will definitely be missed. Kathryn passed away unexpectedly at the age of seventy-seven at the Alegent Health Hospital in Corning, Iowa on June 4, 2012. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Larry and two brothers: Robert and Ronnie. Surviving Kathryn are her children: Sharon (Larry) Burns of Canon City, CO, David (Nancy) Higgins of Gravity, IA, Kathy (Ralph) of La Vergne, TN, D.D. Higgins (Sue) of Trenton, NJ, Bonnie (Mike) Scroggie of Afton, IA, Steve Higgins of Bedford, IA and Stacey (Jim) Payne of Bedford, IA; grandchildren: Jason Burns, Justin Burns, Joshua Burns (fiancé Regina), Joel (Angie) Burns, Michelle Higgins, Terry Higgins, MaLinda (Terry) McLeod, Amy (Scott) Haner, Angie (Jeff) Pruet, Max (Mandi) Knauss, Angela Higgins, Amanda Higgins, Sarah (Cody) Hudson, George Scroggie, Amanda (Patrick) Utz, Caycie (Justin) Fidler, Kim (Tim) Zavala, Mindy (Chad) Vogel and Ryan Payne; great grandchildren: Dedric, Archer, Nikolai, Oscar, Abby, Connor, Cody, Kyle, Austin, Kaitlyn, Alex, Isabella, Ever, Jadon, Aaron, Camden, Isabelle, Kyra, Future Baby James, Bailee, Ella, Alex, Conner, Ava, and Jaelee; Goddaughter Jackie Zadina. Funeral services for Kathryn will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 7, 2012 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Bedford with burial to follow in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Bedford. Memorials are suggested to the family of Kathryn Higgins. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Bedford is in charge of arrangements |
| 028Memorial service for Darlene Grebert, age 91, of Clarinda will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 1, 2012 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel in Clarinda. There will be a time of fellowship following the memorial service at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the Leukemia Foundation, Diabetes Foundation, or St. John’s EndowmentFund. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Clarinda in charge of arrangements. Darlene Amelia Grebert, born on July 14, 1920, passed away at Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda, Iowa on May 30, 2012. Darlene was born just north of Clarinda in Valley Township to Henry Frederick “Oscar” Grebert and Kathryn “Sophia” Forst Grebert. She graduated from Clarinda High School in May of 1937 and after six years of college, she graduated with a focus in special education. Darlene’s teaching career began at Centennial Country School north of Shenandoah followed by years at Braddyville High School, McCunn, and Johnson Schools in Clarinda. From 1947 – 1967 Darlene worked for Miss Hensley, the county superintendent of schools. She visited the country schools and led many long meetings when they were redistricting. In 1967 Darlene began teaching at the Yorktown School where her sister, Wilma was the principal. Darlene treasured all of the children that she worked with. She touched and shaped many lives. She loved traveling, camping, and any adventure with family or friends. Her nieces and nephews loved staying at her house with her. Auntie Darlin’ always had good food on hand. She was generous, fun, and a little mischievous. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Sophia Grebert; sisters Wilma Rope and her husband Otto and Selma Forst and her husband Stanley; nephew James Forst and niece Evelyn Forst Warren. She is survived by nieces Kathryn Callahan of Tampa, Florida and Theresa Rope Miller of Tucson, Arizona; nephews Randy Warren and his wife Connie of Waukee, Iowa and Vernon Rope of Clarinda, Iowa; great nieces and nephews Kathy Hunchberger, Richard Callahan, David May, Denise Gioffredi, Brian Callahan, Marty Whip, Jennifer McCall, Stefanie Stoner, Matthew Warren; many great grand nephews and nieces and her life-long friends. Darlene received an award for 35 years of service to the local chapter of the American Cancer Society and was acknowledged by Governor Terry Branstad for her contributions to the development of special needs children. She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Clarinda and of Delta Kappa Gamma. Darlene and her family are grateful for the loving care that she received during her years at Goldenrod Manor and through Hospice of Iowa. Services were held Friday, June 1, 2012 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel with Rev. Daryl Thompkins of St. John Lutheran Church officiating. Interment was at Clarinda Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Leukemia or Diabetes Foundations or St. John Lutheran Church Endowment Fund. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements. www.EFC.cc |
| 029Funeral services for Lois Stephens, age 86, of rural Villisca, Iowa, who entered into peace Thursday, May 24, 2012 at Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa, was held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 31, 2012, at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Reverend Gordon Scott and Reverend Beckie Linn Gregory officiating. Visitation with the family was held 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, May 30, 2012 at the funeral home. Burial will be private at a later date at the Villisca Cemetery, Villisca, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to Villisca Fire and Rescue or to the donor's choice. 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. Lois Evelyn Beavers was born November 18, 1925, on the family farm south of Villisca, Iowa, the first child of Anna Ruth (Adkins) and Walter L. Beavers. Lois passed away on May 24, 2012, in Clarinda, Iowa. Lois attended Sams Country School and graduated from Villisca Community High School in 1943. She attended Northwest Missouri State Teachers College in Maryville, Missouri in 1946 with a Bachelors degree in elementary education. After teaching Kindergarten for two years in Keokuk, IA, Lois married Carl Stephens in rural Bedford, Iowa, on June 6, 1948. To this union six children were born: Marie, Howard, Marc, Cecil, Martha, and Mary. Lois was a dedicated wife, farm partner, and mother. Lois enjoyed collecting stamps, scrap booking, camping, gardening, canning, sewing and quilting. She made many quilts and blankets for her family and friends. Lois enjoyed her family, researching and gathering family history, attending many reunions, and family activities. Lois was an active member of the First Christian Church, Clarinda, Iowa, and CWF. Lois was a member of DAR, Eastern Star, Farm Bureau, and a 4-H volunteer and leader for many years. She was Farm Bureau Homemaker of the Year in 1968. Lois is survived by husband of almost 64 years, Carl and children: Marie (Doug) Weddle of Villisca, IA; Howard (Janelle) Stephens of Ames, IA; Marc (Carrie) Stephens of Kingwood, TX; Martha (Craig) Herzberg of Villisca, IA; Mary (Brian) Carlson of Red Oak, IA; Grandchildren: Bill Waldron, Chris Gregory, Angie Waldron, Steve Waldron, Eric Waldron, Traci Haselhuhn, David Stephens, Emily Spencer, Samantha Stephens, Shana Brown, Alex Herzberg, Rachel Herzberg, Elizabeth Herzberg, Jackie Carlson, Danny Carlson, Nick Carlson, and Katie Carlson; Great-grandchildren: Aiden, Owen, Liam and Faith Gregory, Trust Marshall, Connor and Mason Gellender, Nathan and Brooke Brown, Tyler and Hannah Haselhuhn, Kelsey Stephens, and baby Spencer; sister Arlene Slater of Harvard, NE; brother Tom (Pat) Beavers of Shenandoah, IA; sister-in-law Ruby (Rube) Turner, Hopkins, MO; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends. Preceding Lois in death were her parents, Walter and Ruth (Adkins) Beavers; sister, Virginia (Beavers) Slater; son, Cecil Lee Stephens; brothers-in-law, Roland Slater, Don Slater, Ed Herzberg; sister-in-law, Frances (Stephens) Herzberg. Lois will be missed by many. May God grant comfort to those who mourn her passing |
| 030Celebration of Life services for Michael Leighton, age 40, of New Market, Iowa, who entered into peace Sunday, May 20 at Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, were be held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 24, at the Church of Christ, New Market, Iowa with Russ Clark and Loren Daly officiating. Visitation with the family was held 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursday at the church prior to the service. Burial was in the Memory Cemetery, New Market. Memorials may be given in Michael's 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. Michael Scott Leighton was born March 24, 1972, in Wheatridge, Colorado, and passed away Sunday, May 20, at Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska. His parents are Mary Helen Keller and the late Robert Glenn Leighton. His father passed away when Mike was three years old, and he was raised by his mother and stepfather, the late Lyle Eldon Combs. He began school at New Market Elementary School, and then attended schools in New Hampton, Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa, Crosby, Texas, Highlands, Texas, Mexia, Texas. He then returned to New Market in the seventh grade. He attended New Market School through his sophomore year, and then moved to Oregon where he graduated from Neah-Kah-Nie High School in Rockaway Beach, Oregon, in 1990. He attended Clarinda Community College in 1991. He worked for Luke Druivenga on a farm near Osceola before moving to Ames, Iowa, where he worked as framer, painter, carpenter and concrete worker. He also worked for Moehl Millwork in Ankeny, Iowa. He was a hard worker wherever he worked, and was a favorite with all his co-workers. Mike was an avid fisherman, and fished every pond for miles around. He particularly loved salmon fishing with his parents while he lived in Oregon. He loved taking his nieces and nephews fishing. He spent as much time as he could; camping in Cook Creek in the mountains of Oregon. Mike enjoyed all kinds of music, but more than anything in the world loved to play blues music on his Fender Stratocaster. He spent hours playing his guitar everywhere he lived, jamming with friends and family. He loved playing pool and cards. He spent a lot of time playing cards with family members, including time with his nieces and nephews, teaching them pitch and peanuts. Kids loved Mike, and he loved kids. His nieces and nephews always had a great time with Uncle Mike, no matter what they did together. His friends' children adored him, too. Mike was predeceased by his father, Robert Glenn Leighton, stepfather Lyle Combs, his niece Bethany Leighton, his maternal and paternal grandparents, several aunts and uncles, cousins Melanie Mulkins, Brad and Brenton Graham. He is survived by his mother, Mary Combs of New Market, Iowa; his sister Lana Gotcher and husband Greg of Tulsa, Oklahoma; his sister Joyce Carlson and husband Dave of College Springs, Iowa; his brother Alan Leighton and wife Elaine of Des Moines, Iowa; his brother Larry Leighton and wife Kay of Sun City West, Arizona; stepsister Susan Laddusaw and husband Gary of Washougal, Washington; stepbrother Wayne Combs of Nevada; nieces and nephews: Ian Carlson, wife Emily and son Dreyton; Jeremy Carlson, wife Tessa, sons Noah, Drew and Gavin, daughter Cadence; Traci Smith, husband Tim and son Colton; Rachael Gotcher; Zoe Leighton and Shelby Leighton; and six step-nieces and two step-nephews. He is also survived by aunts and uncles: Arlene King, Jack Keller and wife Mary Ann, Jeanie Graham and husband Roy, Anita Keller, Loleta Spring and husband Gary; Judy Sparks, Don Leighton, June Leighton, and many, many cousins. Mike will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. His kindness and generosity to others will never be forgotten. Our memories from the last 40 years will remain in our hearts forever |
| 031Funeral Services for Lloyd L. Ambrose, age 81 who passed away Saturday, May 19, 2012 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center, Bedford, Iowa will be held Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at 11:00 AM at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. The family will be in attendance an hour before the funeral. Interment will be at the Washington Cemetery in Gravity, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Family. Memories may be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Lloyd was born February 16, 1931 to Frank and Lena (Shields) Ambrose in Gravity, Iowa. He graduated from Gravity High School in 1949. After high school Lloyd joined the United States Air Force from November 1950 to November 1954. On June 5, 1955, he was united in marriage to Aneita Barnes at Lenox, Iowa. They made their home in Kent, Iowa and later moved to Lenox and then Gravity, Iowa. They were blessed with three children, Barbara, LaVerne and Pamela. Lloyd worked for the Sheridan Egg Company in Lenox, Omar Bread Company in Corning, and as the Gravity night watchman. Thru his life Lloyd worked as a handyman for many people in the area. Lloyd enjoyed telling stories, playing cards at the Gravity Koffee Kup, trips to the casino, going to the horse races, square dancing in his younger years, hunting and fishing with family and friends. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren's school sporting events. He moved to Denison, Iowa in 2003, where he resided until April 2011, when he entered the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center, where he resided until his death. Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Aneita, two sisters, Iola and Geraldine, three brothers, Gail, Wade and Jack. Lloyd enjoyed his family very much. He was especially proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his children, Barbara and husband Ray O'Dell of Gravity, Iowa and granddaughter Kimberly of Des Moines and Tina and husband Patrick Hogan of Prescott and great-grandson Sean. LaVerne and wife Katja (Schroth) Ambrose of Denison and grandson Rob and wife Stacy (Reineke) of Underwood and great-granddaughters Delaney, Hailey and Kayley, grandson Daniel of Littleton, Colorado. Pamela and husband Greg Rood of Crystal, Minnesota, granddaughter Christina Peterson and fiancé John Stevens of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota and step-granddaughters, Tiphanie Rood of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Erika Rood of St. Louis Park, Minnesota. Nieces, nephews and many friends and neighbors. Lloyd will be missed by his family. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing |
| 032Memorial services for Leon "Lynn" Balster, age 54, of New Market, Iowa, who entered into peace Saturday, May 19, 2012 as the result of a tractor accident at his residence were held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at Ritchie Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Visitation with the family was be held 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Wednesday prior to the service at the funeral home. 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. Leon (Lynn) Francis Balster was born May 22, 1957 to Bernard & Elizabeth Balster in Iona, Minnesota. Lynn grew to adulthood on a farm near Iona. On February 14, 1993 Lynn married his soul mate, Karen Brown, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together they farmed and raised hogs in Minnesota. A few years later, Lynn and Karen bought a farm near Webster City, Iowa. While at Webster City, Lynn farmed and worked at a hog confinement facility. The couple then moved to their present home outside of New Market, Iowa in 2005. Lynn had a great love for the farm life, and he and Karen started raising limousine cattle which gave them much enjoyment. He was always busy working around the farm and taking care of his cattle. Lynn also worked at NSK in Clarinda, Iowa. Preceding Lynn in death were his parents and a sister. Left to mourn his death are his wife, Karen, New Market, Iowa; daughter, Ashley Balster of Minnesota; step-son, Dave Brown, Creston, IA; step-granddaughter, Jamie Brown. |
| 033Richard N. Hall. 78, died May 17 at the Nebraska Masonic Home in Plattsmouth, NE. Born December 25, 1933 in Clarinda to George and Gladys (Goff) Hall. Richard graduated from Clarinda High in 1952. He later joined the United States Air Force serving from 1954 to 1974. He retired in Plattsmouth NE, becoming a part of the local business community and a member of the First United Methodist Church where services were held Monday, May 21. He enjoyed working with the Kass Kounty King Korn Karnival helping line up the parade and watching the parade when no longer able to help. He was an avid player of dominos, card games, pool and Wii with friends and family. Survived by: son Rex Hall, daughters, Ginger (Wes) Tuttle, of Plattsmouth, Kelly (Steve) Mass of LaVista, Mindy ( Gary ) Wemhoff of Columbus NE, grandchildren: Zachary and Samuel Wemhoff, Kari (Chris Chapin), Bobbi (Ethan Brown) and Garrick McCollum, Makayla (Kris) O'Neil, Charles Mass, Rex Hall Jr. and Ben Miles. Great grandchildren: Huckleberry, Sophia, Breea, Thor, Koen, borther-in-laws: Willard Andrews and Rudy Hron. Preceded in death by: parents George and Gladys Hall, sisters Arlene Hall and Garland Andrews,nephew Tony Andrews, in-laws Ralph and Bessie McKee, sister-in-laws Shirley McCoy, Carol Hron many aunts and uncles. Memorials to the First United Methodist Church, Plattsmouth or The Nebraska Masonic Home |
| 034Norma W. White, 75, of Chippewa Township, departed this life on May 7, 2012. She was born December 31, 1936, in Clarinda, Iowa, daughter of the late Homer and Bessie McCalla Woods. A graduate of Geneva College, she was an active member of College Hill Reformed Presbyterian Church, and participated in a number of clubs in the area - the Geneva Women, Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary, and the Little Beaver Historical Society. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her in-laws, John and Ethel White. She is survived by her husband of over 50 years, Dr. John H. White, the president of Geneva College from 1992 to 2004; two daughters, Natalie (Ray) Austin, Moon Township, and Stephanie, Big Beaver; six grandchildren, Steven, Jennifer, Janelle, Asa, Aiden and Matthew; tow sisters, Eleanor Blair, Clarinda, Iowa and Madelyn Adams, Darlington Township; a niece, four nephews, and numerous cousins. She completed her journey on earth after a four-year battle with cancer and peacefully transitioned from earth to heaven. She awaits the sound of the trumpet at the Reformed Presbyterian Cemetery, New Galilee, Pa. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Geneva College, 3200 College Ave., Beaver Falls, PA |
| 035Richard is survived by his children Merle, Deborah and Donna. No services are currently planned |